All posts by K S Krishna

Covestro, a global leader in polymer production, collaborates with logistics expert DB Cargo BTT for more efficient and sustainable transport of chemicals to and within Poland. In particular, the transport of methylene diphenyl isocyanate (MDI), a chemical raw material used in a variety of polyurethane materials like the thermal insulation of buildings and refrigerators, shall benefit.

Hanno Bruemmer, Head of Supply Chain and Logistics EMLA at Covestro, stated: “The entire value chain must be involved to achieve our joint goal of climate neutrality by 2050. Reliable, efficient,t and sustainable logistics for our ever-more-sustainable products are integral to this effort. We collaborate with our customers and transport companies to optimize the supply chain. This includes improving load capacity, selecting the best transport modes and routes, and introducing using sustainable and future-oriented energy sources like green electricity or HVO to replace fossil fuels.”

As part of the collaboration, DB Cargo BTT provides Covestro with an end-to-end transport solution that combines several sustainable approaches: First, the chemicals are transported in tank containers from the production sites of Covestro in Germany to a nearby railway terminal using bio-fuel (HVO 100)-driven trucks. The tank containers are then transported to a distribution center in Poland via rail, keeping trucks off the road and saving respective emissions. From there, bio-fuel (HVO 100)-driven trucks are again deployed to distribute the chemicals to end customers in Poland to ensure on-time delivery. This particular biofuel is one of the most sustainable alternatives to fossil diesel. Altogether, the combination of these modes of transport saves at least 70% of CO2 emissions compared to conventional road transport methods.

Torsten Lüders, Managing Director of DB Cargo BTT GmbH, points out: “At DB Cargo BTT, we also rely on working with external partners across all modes of transport in order to arrange traction or first and last mile services as efficiently as possible for our customers. For Covestro, we have recently transported essential chemical products to Poland and we’re now happy to combine our rail expertise with bio-fuel-driven trucks for the first and last mile. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to enabling more sustainable supply chains and supporting the transformation of the chemical industry. Projects like these demonstrate how we, as part of the DB Cargo group, offer our customers a significant degree of added value and are an essential part of European supply chains.”

The collaboration is designed to be flexibly scaled in the future to accommodate growing business needs. It also sends an important signal to customers of Covestro, such as the Polish Selena Group, a global manufacturer of construction chemicals and materials, who benefit from the delivery of MDI with a lower carbon footprint, as it helps to reduce their Scope 3 emissions.

Bernd Hennig, Head of Trading Cluster MDI at Covestro remarked: “Together with Selena Group, we are committed to advancing sustainable solutions across the entire value chain, offering our valued customers not only more sustainable materials but also sustainable transportation solutions.” Michal Specjalski, Member of the Management Board of Product and Innovation at Selena Group added: “Today, sustainable business no longer means having to compromise between efficiency and quality. In Selena Group we are constantly increasing our commitment to the development of sustainable construction. We carefully follow trends and changes in the world around us. We are constantly working on minimizing our environmental impact and rational resource management. That’s why we are delighted to have Covestro and DB Cargo BTT at our side as strong partners who share our commitment to reducing emissions and achieving climate neutrality targets in Europe and worldwide.”

Selena Group and Covestro are already collaborating in multiple ways to advance the circular economy. For instance, they are developing polyurethane (PU) foams for improved thermal insulation in buildings which are based on MDI of the Desmodur® CQ product range. It is ISCC Plus-certified, using plant-based raw materials through mass balancing. As a result, these products have a lower carbon footprint compared to those derived from fossil raw materials—and now, thanks to the transport solution, they will also be delivered to Selena in a more sustainable way.

7 January 2025: The Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission (KKEM), an initiative by the Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (K-DISC), the Government of Kerala, has partnered with Coursera, a leading global online learning platform, to equip youth across the state with industry-relevant skills. Announced at a special event held today at John Cox Engineering college Kanamoola, Thiruvananthapuram, this collaboration aims to train 60,000 Kerala residents in 2025, equipping them with critical skills for 17 high-demand digital job roles. The partnership is an integral part of KKEM, which seeks to train 30 lakh individuals and create 20 lakh jobs by 2026.

The vision of this program is not just focused on employment but also on building a robust talent pipeline that aligns education with industry needs, fostering sustainable and inclusive growth. This initiative is built on a two-pronged approach:
● Empowering the workforce of tomorrow: By introducing Coursera’s cutting-edge content and micro-credentials, graduating students will gain industry-relevant skills that make them job-ready from day one. This includes the Talent Accelerator Programme, a three-month intensive initiative for final-year students in higher education institutions across Kerala, with the first cohort launching in 250 colleges.
● Upskilling job seekers and professionals: Individuals seeking new opportunities or re-entering the workforce will gain access to role-based learning and credentials designed for high-demand digital jobs. Talent Curation Executives at local self-government nodes will be trained to manage job stations, driving skilling initiatives at the block panchayat level.

All learners will have access to 40 virtual academies focused on key domains such as AI/ML, cloud computing, cybersecurity, creative design, logistics and supply chain, and digital marketing. These academies feature Professional Certificates from leading companies like Google, IBM, Meta, Microsoft, Adobe, and Salesforce, designed to help learners from all backgrounds – regardless of degree or prior industry experience – gain the skills needed to launch their careers in just a few months.

“In Kerala’s journey towards a scientific infrastructure, the contribution of a skilled young generation in knowledge-based jobs is crucial. As part of the ‘Knowledge Kerala’ program conducted by the Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission under the Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council, the ‘Talent Accelerator’ program will undoubtedly help enhance the skills of our youth towards knowledge-based jobs.” said Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala.

Shri K.N. Balagopal, Finance Minister of Kerala said: “Kerala has always prioritized education and skill development as the foundation of its growth. This partnership with Coursera is a step forward in ensuring our youth and workforce are equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. By aligning education with industry needs, we are not only fostering local innovation but also positioning Kerala as a hub of global talent and opportunity.”

“We are thrilled to partner with K-DISC on this transformative initiative. Kerala is setting an inspiring example of how collaboration between governments, educators, and industry can create a skilled workforce and unlock new opportunities for growth”, said Tim Hannan, Chief Marketing Officer, Coursera. “Together, we share a vision to make learning accessible to all, empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and fostering talent that excels both locally and globally.”

“This collaboration with Coursera embodies KKEM’s vision of building a future-ready Kerala. By offering learners globally recognized credentials and role-specific training, we are not just addressing the state’s employment goals but also empowering individuals with skills for a tech-driven economy, said Dr. Thomas Isaac, Chief Advisor, Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission.

Taking a community-driven approach, Coursera and KKEM will also train 1,000+ mentors from across Kerala, including faculty, career counselors, and community leaders, to provide personalized guidance to learners. Four-day mentor enablement workshops will be held in Trivandrum, Kochi, Thrissur, and Kozhikode. Mentors will also receive Career Coach Certification from Coursera via the Digital Workforce Management System (DWMS) portal, equipping them to guide learners effectively and provide consistent support on skilling opportunities, ensuring development reaches every corner of the state.

January 07, 2025: GD Goenka University is delighted to announce that Shreya Agrawal, an MBA student from the 2024-26 batch, has bagged the Silver Medal in the 10m Air Rifle Women’s team event at the 67th National Shooting Championship Competition 2024.

The prestigious event was held at the M.P. State Shooting Academy in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, from December 15 to 31, 2024.

Shreya’s achievement at the championship highlights her dedication and skill in the sport of shooting. Competing against some of the best shooters in the country, she demonstrated exceptional precision and composure to secure the silver medal.

“We are incredibly proud of Shreya Agrawal’s outstanding performance at the National Shooting Championship. Her determination and hard work have brought great honour to our university. This achievement is a testament to the holistic education and support provided by GD Goenka University, enabling our students to excel in both academics and extracurricular activities,” said Mr. Nipun Goenka, Managing Director of GD Goenka Group.

The 67th National Shooting Championship Competition, organized by the National Rifle Association of India, brought together the nation’s top shooters to compete in various events. Shreya’s success at the competition underlines the importance of fostering talent and providing opportunities for students to shine on national and international platforms.

GD Goenka University congratulates Shreya Agrawal on her remarkable accomplishment and wishes her continued success in her future endeavors.

January 7, 2025 – TiE Global, one of the world’s largest networks of entrepreneurs, proudly announced the election of Murali Bukkapatnam as the Chair of its Global Board of Trustees for the year 2025. In a historic milestone, Murali becomes only the second India-based entrepreneur to hold this prestigious position in TiE’s 32-year legacy. Alongside him, Anita Manwani, President of TiE Silicon Valley, has been appointed as the Vice Chair of the TiE Board of Trustees for 2025, reinforcing the organization’s global vision and leadership.

Murali Bukkapatnam’s appointment marks a significant chapter in TiE’s history. As a seasoned entrepreneur, innovator, mentor, and investor, Murali brings unparalleled expertise and a deep-seated commitment to building robust entrepreneurial ecosystems. His journey with TiE Global is a testament to his leadership, having previously served as Vice Chair twice before ascending to the role of Chair. This unique distinction underscores his unwavering dedication to TiE’s mission and values. His vision emphasizes the transformative power of entrepreneurship as a vehicle for economic development, job creation, and societal progress.

Founded with a mission to foster entrepreneurship, TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) is a non-profit organization dedicated to mentoring, networking, education, funding, and incubation. With over 10,000 members across 65 cities in 15 countries, TiE is a global powerhouse committed to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders. The organization has played a pivotal role in shifting India from being perceived as an investee market to a thriving investor market on the global stage.

With an MS in Computer Science with honors from Southeastern University, USA, Murali has built a stellar career that spans continents. Today, Murali is a revered mentor, teaching business plan development at IIT Hyderabad and various leading business schools. Joining Murali is Anita Manwani, a trailblazer and the President of TiE Silicon Valley. As Vice Chair for 2025, Anita brings her extensive experience in Silicon Valley’s dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. Together, Murali and Anita represent a formidable leadership team, committed to bridging global markets and fostering collaboration beyond borders.

Commenting on his announcement, Murali Bukkapatnam, Chair of TiE Global Board of Trustees for 2025 said, “It is an honor to lead an organization that has been instrumental in transforming the entrepreneurial landscape globally. As Chair, I am committed to furthering TiE’s mission, fostering innovation, and nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. Together with Anita and our global network, we will continue to empower individuals and build a more inclusive, dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

Murali Bukkapatnam’s leadership heralds a new era for TiE Global, one that promises greater innovation, collaboration, and impact. As TiE continues to shape the global entrepreneurial narrative, the organization reaffirms its commitment to fostering a world where entrepreneurship is a driving force for progress and prosperity.

January 07, 2025: Tata Digital announces its expansion into the retail investments space with the launch of its Fixed Deposits Marketplace on Tata Neu. This innovative platform empowers its customers to invest in fixed deposits with leading financial institutions at interest rates of up to 9.1%, without the need for a savings bank account.

Investing is now easier and more accessible than ever. In just 10 minutes, Tata Neu customers can start their investment journey with as little as INR. 1,000, all through a seamless digital process. This opens the door to financial empowerment for everyone, regardless of their initial capital. With bank investments insured up to INR. 5 lakh by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC), consumers get safety and complete peace of mind.

“Fixed deposits have long been a trusted choice for building a safe and stable investment portfolio,” said Gaurav Hazrati, Chief Business Officer, Financial Services, Tata Digital. “With our Fixed Deposit Marketplace, we aim to democratize access to high-yield, fixed-return instruments from multiple trusted providers. This simple and secure platform is designed to offer competitive interest rates, empowering both seasoned investors and newcomers to grow their wealth confidently and effortlessly.”

Vishal Singh, Head – Digital Banking, Suryoday Small Finance Bank said, “Suryoday has always aimed to offer competitive interest rates for fixed deposits to its customers. Our digital deposit product offers customers the convenience to open, operate and liquidate deposits entirely online. Partnering with Tata Digital expands our reach, allowing us to offer innovative products like this to a wider customer base.”

Parag Sharma, CFO & MD, Shriram Finance added, “Shriram Finance is happy to partner with Tata Digital for our Fixed Deposit offering on Tata Neu. We offer better returns with additional benefits for women customers and senior citizens. This partnership will ensure a seamless and hassle-free FD booking experience for customers.”

Customers stand to benefit further as more banks are set to join the Fixed Deposit marketplace on Tata Neu. Tata Neu will also launch recurring deposits to enable regular and systematic investments.

07 January 2025: In a bid to make Mahakumbh 2025 “Digitally enabled”, furthering PM Modi’s Digital India vision, Indus Towers, one of India’s leading telecom infrastructure providers is partnering with Uttar Pradesh State Government & Distt. Administration to ensure seamless connectivity to all pilgrims & people of Prayagraj during Mahakumbh Mela 2025.

The Kumbh Mela, held every six years, is the largest gathering of devotees traveling from across the world and an exemplary example of world-class public administration. Indus Towers is committed to enhancing and augmenting uninterrupted communications by deploying 180 towers in Prayagraj. This includes 110 permanent towers aimed at providing long-term connectivity in the city. Additionally, 70 “Cell on Wheels” towers are being set up in critical areas within the Mahakumbh Mela grounds. The entire project is set to be completed by the end of December 2024, ensuring robust and reliable network coverage.

Applauding the initiative Prayagraj District Magistrate Mr. Ravindra Kumar Mandar ( IAS ) , said, “Mahakumbh Mela is a significant spiritual gathering for millions of devotees. Ahead of this auspicious occasion, we are delighted to see Indus Towers taking proactive steps to enhance connectivity in Prayagraj. The installation of 180 new towers will not only significantly improve communication but also enable new digital avenues. Millions of devotees will stay connected with their loved ones and access essential services seamlessly.”

“This initiative not only supports the success of Mahakumbh Mela but also contributes to the long-term development of the region. We commend Indus Towers for their commitment to strengthening connectivity and supporting the community.”

Tejinder Kalra, Chief Operating Officer at Indus Towers said, “As we prepare for the Mahakumbh Mela, we recognize the importance of uninterrupted connectivity for millions of devotees. Our partnership with the Mela Administration and Prayagraj district administration enables us to boost the city’s telecom infrastructure and enhance the digital experience for the devotees to manoeuvre through the grounds of Prayagraj with seamless connectivity. This underscores Indus Tower’s commitment in delivering reliable and seamless network solutions where it matters the most.”

Mr. Neeraj Singh, UPE Circle’s CEO, Indus Towers said, “Our commitment to enhancing connectivity for the Mahakumbh Mela is a crucial part of our efforts to ensure smooth communication for millions of pilgrims. We extend our gratitude to Mela Adhikari, Mr. Vijay Kiran Anand, and District Magistrate, Mr. Ravindra Kumar Mandar, for their invaluable support in facilitating the installation of these towers. This will not only ensure reliable communication throughout the Mela but will also enhance Prayagraj’s network infrastructure in the long run. At Indus Towers, we are dedicated to addressing connectivity challenges and delivering a robust and future-ready network for both residents and visitors.”

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj will be held from January 13 to February 26, 2025

07th December 2024: In a remarkable medical achievement, Prakash Hospital, Noida, successfully performed a challenging hip replacement surgery on a 28-year-old nursing officer who had been battling tuberculosis of the hip with avascular necrosis (AVN) for over two years. This complex case underscores Prakash Hospital’s commitment to delivering premium-quality healthcare at affordable costs, ensuring hope and recovery for patients with advanced conditions.

The patient, a nursing officer, had been confined to his home for six months due to debilitating pain and limited mobility. Diagnosed with tuberculosis of the hip and AVN in Meerut, his condition was advanced, and several centers declined to perform surgery, citing the complexity of the disease. His struggle to walk, even with a walker, significantly impacted his professional and personal life.

Upon visiting Prakash Hospital four months ago, the patient was counselled extensively by the medical team. The surgery was particularly challenging due to pre-existing tuberculosis, the altered bone structure, and the acetabular defect. After meticulous pre-operative planning, including CT scans, the team proceeded with surgery to ensure a successful outcome.

“Medicine has advanced significantly, offering solutions even for complex joint conditions like this. At Prakash Hospital, we utilize the latest techniques, including special cups and stems, 3D printing and innovative surgical methods, to deliver exceptional results,” said Dr. Mayank Chauhan, Orthopedic Surgeon at Prakash Hospital. “Patients suffering from arthritis or other joint conditions should not compromise their quality of life. Early consultation and medical management can prevent disease progression, and surgical interventions, when necessary, can restore mobility and independence.”

With Prakash Hospital’s physiotherapy team’s support, the post-operative phase saw a swift recovery. Within a month, the patient was walking with a stick, and within two months, he achieved pain-free mobility without any support. His continued adherence to anti-tubercular medications and regular follow-ups have contributed to his excellent recovery.

This case not only highlights the hospital’s expertise in handling complex orthopedic conditions but also reflects its philosophy of offering world-class healthcare at affordable costs. The successful outcome serves as a beacon of hope for patients suffering from advanced joint diseases and reinforces Prakash Hospital’s reputation as a center of excellence in orthopedic care.

Arrow, the iconic brand synonymous with premium menswear, is thrilled to unveil its much-anticipated End-of-Season Sale (EOSS)! Customers can now revamp their wardrobe with timeless Arrow pieces while enjoying unbeatable offers, including the main highlight: Buy 2, Get 2 on a wide range of stylish apparel.

But that’s not all—Arrow has more exciting offers in-store, tailored to make your shopping experience even more rewarding. From sharp formal wear to versatile casuals, this is your chance to embrace the finest styles at incredible value.

The End-of-Season Sale is a limited-time event, so hurry to your nearest Arrow store to make the most of these exclusive deals. Whether you’re upgrading your work wardrobe, preparing for special occasions, or simply adding classics to your collection, Arrow has something for everyone.

Don’t miss out—step into your favorite Arrow store today and experience the ultimate shopping spree.

Quote from the CEO:

We are thrilled to introduce our End-of-Season Sale, offering customers an incredible opportunity to elevate their wardrobe with our premium collections. With the ‘Buy 2, Get 2’ offer, along with additional exciting promotions available in-store, we aim to provide unmatched value and style for every man. This limited-time offer is our way of saying thank you to our loyal customers,” said Anand Aiyer, CEO of Arrow.

16GB* RAM and 128GB storage for seamless multitasking and superior performance
Powerful 5G performance with MediaTek D6300 priced at just ₹10,999
Ultra-smooth 120Hz display immersive visuals perfect for gaming and streaming

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

7th January 2025: TECNO is kicking off the new year with a bang by dropping a fresh, performance-packed version of its popular POP 9 series. Positioned for performance while remaining trendy and on-point, this variant is crafted for users who seek a perfect blend of style and functionality. With its vibrant design and cutting-edge features, the POP 9 5G continues to set a benchmark for accessible innovation. The POP 9 5G will be available on Amazon starting 8th January.

The Performance POPs in the POP 9 5G

Supreme Performance

With a killer combo of 16GB* RAM (8GB + 8GB virtual), the POP 9 makes gaming, multitasking, and everything else a breeze. Plus, with 128GB of storage, you’ll never have to worry about deleting your favorite apps and photos again.

Speed and Power

Powered by the MediaTek D6300 processor, this smartphone is all about blazing-fast speeds and super-efficient performance, taking the 5G experience to the next level and tackle all the challenges and demanding tasks for users.

Dynamic Visuals

The POP 9 5G is all about an immersive viewing experience with its punch-hole display. Its 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and binge-watching insanely smooth! Whether you’re swiping, streaming, or gaming, everything feels superfluid, and the fun never stops!

Price and Availability:
The TECNO POP 9 5G’s 16GB+128GB variant will be available as part of the special launch offer on Amazon starting 8th January 2025. The smartphone will be available in three stylish color options: Midnight Shadow, Azure Sky, and Aurora Cloud, along with two vibrant mobile skins included in the box

January 07, 2025: Dr. Varshitha Tumkur Panduranga, who graduated as a Medical Doctor from St. George’s University (SGU) in 2024, shares her inspiring journey from St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine to securing an internal medical residency at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University in New York. Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, she pursued her dream of becoming a physician, with SGU providing the platform to turn that aspiration into reality.

Born in India, Dr. Varshitha’s passion for medicine was sparked by her upbringing on her family’s poultry farm, surrounded by animals and immersed in nature, she developed a deep interest in biology from a young age. This early exposure to life sciences, coupled with her admiration for her uncle, Dr. Srinivasan Ravindranath, a cardiologist in Dubai, fueled her desire to pursue a career in medicine. Inspired by his dedication to patient care and the positive impact he had on his community, Dr. Varshitha set her sights on becoming a physician to make a similar difference in the lives of others.

Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Varshitha expressed her joy in matching at her top-choice residency program. “Securing a spot at SUNY Downstate is the realization of a long-held dream. Every effort and sacrifice made along the way has culminated in this moment. The happiness my family and I felt was beyond words.”

During her time at SGU, Dr. Varshitha benefited from the university’s student support system, including career guidance and mentorship programs. “The insights from SGU’s mentors, coupled with their emphasis on practical skills and knowledge, gave me the confidence and preparation to secure my top-choice residency.” she added.

Additionally, SGU’s comprehensive curriculum and diverse clinical experiences across Grenada, the UK, and the US not only broadened her medical knowledge but also provided valuable networking opportunities with physicians across specialties. “The mentors I met during my fourth-year elective rotations were instrumental in guiding me through the residency application process,” she shared.

Looking ahead to her residency at SUNY Downstate, Dr. Varshitha is eager to serve underserved communities and expand her research pursuits. “I am excited to enhance my clinical skills and work in an environment where I can make a meaningful impact. Learning from experienced physicians and contributing to patient care will be a rewarding experience,” she said.

Dr. Varshitha’s journey from SGU to securing her residency exemplifies the wealth of opportunities that SGU provides to aspiring medical professionals. Her story stands as a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and the importance of comprehensive medical education.