All posts by Rabindra

17th September 2024: Campus, one of India’s leading sports and athleisure footwear brands, has launched a new exclusive retail store in Andheri East, Mumbai. The expansive store, spread across 735 Sq. ft. is located at Shop no-5, Ajay Mittal Industrial Premises Co-Operative Society Ltd., Sanjay Building no.1, Mittal Estate, Andheri(E) Pin-400059, Mumbai, Maharashtra. It offers a wide range of high-quality, fashionable, and affordable sneakers. This store launch is a part of the brand’s ongoing growth journey, from continuously driving fashion forward narrative and adopting a multi-channel sales approach to enhance the customer’s experience while serving the latent demand.

The newly launched store showcases Campus’ highly sought for Sneakers and modern footwear, including Nitro Fly, and Nitro Boost ranges, ensuring customers with an unparalleled shopping experience. With a diverse array of options catering to everyday occasions and fashion choice preferences, the store offers something for everyone. To celebrate the grand opening, Campus is offering special promotions, including discount upto 50% off. This initiative reflects Campus Activewear’s commitment to adding value to its customers, allowing them to experience the difference firsthand.

Speaking on occasion, Mr. Nikhil Aggarwal, CEO of Campus Activewear Ltd. said, “We’re excited to announce the launch of our new exclusive store in Andheri East, Mumbai a testament to our untiring dedication to delivering footwear that effortlessly blends quality, style, and affordability in every step. Our new store promises a top-notch shopping experience, better visibility, accessible prices, and enhanced customer satisfaction. At Campus, we walk in step with our customers, understanding their fashion needs, and encouraging everyone to join us in revolutionizing style, confidence, and self-expression. Our journey is fueled by unstoppable energy, and we thank our customers for their trust and support.”

New Delhi, 17 September 2024: Orchid Pharma, Chennai-based, a leading pharmaceutical company catering across the pharmaceutical value chain (discovery to delivery) with expertise in R&D and marketing, announced the formation of Orchid AMS (Antimicrobial Solutions), a dedicated division focused on helping address the critical challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in India. This strategic move aims to address the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in India and globally through innovative products, comprehensive support programs, and digital solutions.

Orchid AMS will spearhead the company’s efforts to combat AMR through a comprehensive approach encompassing innovative product development, robust support programs, and advanced digital solutions. The new entity aims to partner with over 2,500-3,000 hospitals and healthcare institutions in the next two to three years, to implement effective antimicrobial stewardship programs (AMSPs).

To mark this significant initiative, the company is hosting/facilitating a series of sessions aimed at providing a platform for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and industry experts to engage in crucial discussions on AMR and the role of antimicrobial stewardship. In the first phase of its outreach, Orchid AMS will cover Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Vishakapatanam, Coimbatore, Kochi, Thiruvanthapuram, Ahmedabad, Pune, Jaipur, Chandigarh.

Orchid AMS will take lead in Antimicrobial Resistance wholistically through innovative solutions bucketed under five initiatives:

• Pathbreaking Products: Orchid’s pathbreaking products include Orblicef™ (Cefepime Enmetazobactam), Ceftaroline, and Cefiderocol that are already leading efforts in combating AMR
• A ‘First Do No Harm’ team: A dedicated group of experts committed to providing evidence-based recommendations free from commercial bias.
• Wide Product Basket: Introducing a comprehensive basket of molecules, covering 2500 – 3000 hospitals over the next three years
• Active participation in Anti-Microbial Stewardship Programs (AMSP): Collaborating with hospitals to strengthen their antimicrobial stewardship practices.
• Leveraging Digital Solutions for Doctors: Providing healthcare professionals with real-time data on pathogen resistance patterns and incidence rates.

With AMS, Orchid Pharma aims to be the preferred knowledge partner for hospitals, committed to ethical practices and enhancing hospital capacity in tackling AMR. The mission is to build a sustainable business while positively impacting society by helping hospitals reduce healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), AMR, and average length of stay (ALOS) through improved clinical outcomes.

Manish Dhanuka, Managing Director, Orchid Pharma, said, “The launch of Orchid AMS is a proof of our commitment to addressing the urgent public health threat posed by AMR. By combining our expertise in antimicrobials and our USFDA-approved manufacturing capabilities, we aim to make a significant impact on combating this public health crisis in India and beyond, said Manish Dhanuka, Managing Director of Orchid Pharma.

Rajnish Rohatgi, Chief Executive Officer, Orchid AMS added, “AMR is one of the biggest healthcare challenges today, and governments across the world including India have launched programs to address it. It’s a complex issue requiring a multi-faceted approach, to impact patient compliance, ease of availability without prescriptions, use in crop and livestock farming, and use in hospitals. We wish to be the change we want to see – and commit to responsible promotion of anti-biotics, i.e. 1st Do No harm. Orchid AMS invites leading pharmaceutical companies to join us in this task – to collaborate, even while we compete – and work with healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective strategies to combat this growing threat.”

Orchid Pharma’s recent achievements, including the USFDA, EMA, and DCGI approval of its new chemical entity, Cefepime-Enmetazobactum, for treating complicated urinary tract infections, highlight the company’s strong foundation in antimicrobial research and development. The launch of Orchid AMS demonstrates the company’s dedication to addressing the complex challenges posed by AMR through innovation, education, and responsible antimicrobial use.

AMR is a global health crisis with far-reaching economic consequences. The World Bank estimates that AMR could result in trillions of dollars in additional healthcare costs and GDP losses over the next decade. India, with a significant AMR burden, stands to benefit greatly from Orchid AMS’s initiatives.

As India faces a significant AMR burden, estimated at over 1 million deaths directly attributable to AMR in 2019, Orchid AMS’s launch comes at a crucial time. Its efforts align with India’s National Action Plan on AMR and aim to address this complex public health challenge through a multifaceted approach that prioritizes human health, prevents infections, ensures universal access to quality diagnosis and appropriate treatment, and promotes strategic information and innovation.

Mumbai, September 17, 2024: Data from the field experiments conducted by several reputed Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) institutes and state agricultural universities across the country’s diverse agro-climatic zones have demonstrated that Nano DAP can enhance the yield of crops to the tune of 2.4% to 27% when applied at a recommended dose. This data showcases the unique advantage of Nano DAP in comparison to conventional DAP.

The experiments were held in farmers’ fields across India over 3,000 locations, led by a team of Agronomists who have studied the response of Gromor Nano DAP in a spectrum of crops, including rice, wheat, maize, moong, chickpea, red gram, groundnut, cotton, potato, onion, bottle gourd and cabbage, covering the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Punjab. The data depicted that farmers who have started using Nano DAP are convinced with the results and begin to benefit from the Nano fertilizers.

Gromor Nano DAP was tested across the country as part of the research, including several reputed Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Institutes such as India Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) – New Delhi, Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR) – Hyderabad, Indian Institute of Millets Research (IIMR) – Hyderabad, Indian Institute of Pulses Research (IIPR) – Kanpur, Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR) – Nagpur, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) – Bengaluru and Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (IIVR) – Varanasi. It was also tested at various state agricultural universities such as Tamil Nadu Agricultural University – Coimbatore, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University (PJTSAU) – Hyderabad, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth (MPKV) – Rahuri, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV) – Akola and Punjab Agricultural University- Ludhiana besides unequivocally demonstrated in farmers’ fields.

The Indian agriculture faces a wide array of constraints such as decline in soil organic carbon, imbalanced fertilization, multi-nutrient deficiencies and less fertilizer response ratio besides impacts of climate change and huge sum of fertilizer subsidies. The scientists have started exploring cutting edge technologies like nanotechnology which enables atomic manipulation to achieve processes and products that are precise to deliver input without associated loss of nutrients synchronized with environmental issues. To resolve this, Coromandel International has been manufacturing Gromor Nano DAP since 2023.

In alignment with the national-level nano fertiliser recommendations, the recommended dose of Gromor Nano DAP at 500 ml per acre twice at 20-25 and 40-45 days after sowing or transplanting, along with 75% recommended dose of conventional phosphatic fertilisers for optimum output.

In order to gain insights, rapid absorption of Nano DAP in comparison to conventional DAP was assessed using high resolution electron microscopy, quick assimilation and turnover of amino acids using enzyme

assays besides internalization in crops as stated by Dr K S Subramanian, Scientific Advisor, Coromandel International Limited and Former Director of Research, TNAU. Gromor Nano DAP was designed, developed and notified by Fertilizer Control Order (FCO) in 2023, at a time when the country is facing a phosphatic fertiliser availability crisis.

Mumbai, 17th September 2024: IIHMR University, a leading health management research university in Jaipur, announced a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with Curtin University, Malaysia, one of the top universities worldwide. The collaboration is set to provide students and faculty with exceptional development opportunities to enhance their future and position them as individuals capable of significantly contributing across various domains in diverse roles.

The alliance is meticulously designed to offer both the students and the faculty members with life-altering experiences through exchange opportunities, joint research initiatives and specialized training programs.

Expressing his excitement at the mark of this new beginning, Dr. PR Sodani, President of IIHMR University shared, “Over the years we at IIHMR University have been constantly working to provide best opportunities to our students and give best professional development to our faculty members. This MoU is a testament of our dedication to fulfill our promise and exceed our pre-set standards. By joining our collective expertise we are levering our resources to stride ahead and create an ecosystem of continuous development. I look forward to formulating innovative research and training programs with Curtin University.”

This thoughtfully formulated partnership marks a significant step toward fostering academic collaboration, joint research initiatives, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise between the two prestigious institutions. Harnessing the joint power, both the universities aim to drive impactful advancements in education, research, and sustainable development, paving the way for innovative solutions to global challenges.

During Malaysia visit, the delegation form IIHMR University also participated in the GlobeSync Community Research and Sustainability Conference, organized by Curtin University, held from September 3-4, 2024. Dr. P.R. Sodani, delivered a powerful & impactful keynote address titled “Bridging Gaps for SDGs through Transforming Management Education: A Strategic Pathway to a Sustainable Future”. His visionary insights highlighted the critical role of innovative management education in driving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and charting a strategic course toward a more sustainable global future.

Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, actors Kartik, Tina, and Vaishnavi recently shot an exciting dance sequence that has caught the audience’s attention. While the cast brought their energy to the performance, Ashish Dixit opened up about his experience shooting alongside the show’s trained dancers, Brinda Dala and Maitri Bhanushali.

Ashish Dixit shared, “Shooting the dance sequence with Brinda and Maitri was honestly a mix of excitement and nerves for me. They’re both such talented, trained dancers, and I’m definitely not, so I was really worried about being able to keep up with them. But I have to say, they were absolutely incredible throughout the whole process. They were so patient and supportive, guiding me through every step. What I thought would be stressful ended up being so much fun because of how they handled everything.

He added, “We laughed a lot during rehearsals, which really helped ease the pressure. It didn’t feel like work; it felt like a team effort where we were all just having a good time. I actually learned a lot from them in terms of dance, but more than that, the whole experience brought us closer together. Our chemistry off-screen naturally translated into stronger chemistry on-screen. By the end, something I had been really nervous about turned into one of the most memorable and enjoyable parts of the shoot. I’m so grateful to them for their help and the way they made the entire experience so comfortable and fun.”

Ashish plays the role of Kartik in Sun Neo’s Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya. In the recent episodes we saw how Kartik is torn between Vaishnavi and Tina, who are both trying to win his heart. However, he is yet to reveal what is in his heart. Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya highlights the triumph of good over evil, emphasizing faith and devotion to Chhathi Maiyya, who guides and protects her devotees. The show features Devoleena Bhattacharjee, Sara Khan, Jaya Bhattacharya, Brinda Dahal, and Ashish Dixit in key roles and airs on Sun Neo every Monday to Saturday at 7 PM.

Bengaluru/Mumbai, 17 September 2024: The International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B), a deemed to be University has recently concluded one of the largest graduating cohorts of the year with nearly 4000 learners joining from India and globally.

The event honored learners – both India and International, completing various online certifications and postgraduate programs in Data Science, Software Development, and Machine Learning & AI. Over 800 learners attended physically at the campus, while another 3000 joined the live stream from over different cities in India and globally.

Dr. Vivek Raghavan, Co-Founder of Sarvam AI, graced the ceremony as the chief guest. Other distinguished dignitaries included Mr. Ronnie Screwvala, Co-founder & Chairperson upGrad and an ensemble leadership like Prof. Debabrata Das, Director, IIIT-Bangalore, Prof. V Sridhar, Faculty in-charge CPE at IIIT-Bangalore, Commodore SR Sridhar, (Retd.), Registrar, IIIT-Bangalore and Prof. Chandrashekar Ramanathan, Dean Academics, IIIT-Bangalore.

Dr. Vivek Raghavan, Co-Founder, Sarvam AI, “Learning is a lifelong process. We must continuously reinvent ourselves, acquiring new skills to stay relevant. Embrace curiosity and be open to new opportunities, as the tools of today, like generative AI, are transforming industries. It is our responsibility to leverage these technologies efficiently. The power of AI has the potential to democratize education and healthcare, making them accessible to all. India’s youth will drive this transformation, making us a leader in AI adoption.”

Prof. Debabrata Das, Director, IIIT-Bangalore, said, “You have a critical role in shaping the future of our nation. Your hard work will not only drive your success but also support India’s ambitious goal of reaching a $1 trillion digital economy by 2026. Through collaboration, continuous learning, and leveraging cutting-edge digital technologies, we can strive towards excellence and make meaningful contributions to society.”

Mr. Ronnie Screwvala, Co-founder & Chairperson upGrad highlighted the nearly decade-long partnership between upGrad and IIIT-B, emphasizing their shared commitment to building a knowledge economy. “This partnership started in 2016 is a testament to IIIT-B’s visionary approach, recognizing the revolutionary potential of online education. All the learners have made a wise choice in pursuing curiosity and continuous learning. Life is about the choices we make, and these choices will define us. Time is a valuable resource—balance action with reflection as technology and the world evolve rapidly. In this fast-paced environment, taking moments to reflect will keep you grounded and focused on your personal and professional growth.”

By – Mr. Vijender Reddy Muthyala, Co-founder & CEO, DrinkPrime

Amidst the monsoon’s refreshing rains and cooler breezes lies a hidden challenge: the battle against dehydration. As the humidity soars, our bodies engage in a relentless effort to maintain a stable internal temperature of 37°C. In the sweltering heat, we naturally cool down through sweat—a vital process known as thermoregulation. Typically, this sweat evaporates, taking excess heat with it. But in the monsoon season, the air is already saturated with moisture, hindering this natural cooling process. Instead of relief, we’re left with a sticky, uncomfortable sensation as our bodies work overtime, sweating more and straining our systems to stay cool.

While the monsoon provides a much-needed break from the intense summer sun, it also brings its own set of challenges. The season’s high humidity not only disrupts our body’s cooling mechanisms but also creates conditions for the spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases. As the rains quench the earth, they also carry with them the risk of contaminated water, making it imperative that we remain vigilant about our health during this seemingly benign season.

The Hidden Importance of Hydration

Water is the cornerstone of our health, making up about 70% of our bodies and playing a critical role in the function of every cell. Dehydration deprives these cells of the water and minerals they need, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, sluggishness, and dizziness. This risk is heightened during the monsoon, as people of all ages are more susceptible to dehydration without realizing it. It’s crucial to drink enough water to maintain the body’s mineral balance and regulate temperature, especially since dehydration can easily go unnoticed.

Don’t Let Monsoon Mislead You

In the monsoon, drinking hot beverages can lower water intake, risking dehydration. Even a slight 2% decrease in hydration can lead to confusion and visual issues. Don’t depend only on thirst as an indicator; monitor other signs of dehydration to keep your energy, skin health, and mental clarity in check. Staying properly hydrated is key to overall well-being.

Dangers Lurking in Contaminated Water

The likelihood of water contamination increases sharply during the monsoon season. Heavy rains lead to surface runoff, which can transport pollutants, pesticides, and other hazardous materials into water supplies. This leads to a significant increase in vector-borne and waterborne infections during this time of year. Especially for young infants and individuals with compromised immune systems, drinking polluted water can result in major health issues. To prevent these health hazards during the monsoon, it’s just as vital to prioritize water safety and make sure you’re properly hydrated.

Practical Hydration Tips for the Monsoon Season

To maintain optimal hydration and stay disease-free during the monsoon, consider these valuable tips:

• Drink Enough Water: Regardless of how thirsty you feel, make it a priority to drink enough water throughout the day. To stay hydrated at all times, always have a bottle of water with you.
• Moderate Caffeine and Alcohol Intake: Both caffeine and alcohol can lead to increased fluid loss, acting as diuretics. Although it might be tempting to enjoy hot drinks during the rainy season, it’s important to consume them in moderation.
• Incorporate Hydrating Foods: These foods aid in hydration and offer essential nutrients. Additionally, be mindful of consuming food from outside sources to avoid potential contamination.
• Focus on Electrolytes: Electrolytes are crucial for balancing fluids and supporting numerous bodily functions.
• Use a Water Purifier: With the increased risk of water contamination during the monsoon, it’s important to have a reliable water purifier at home to ensure your water is safe to drink. A good purifier helps maintain proper pH levels and removes contaminants. Alternatively, boiling water is another effective method to ensure its safety.

Maintaining hydration and ensuring clean water are essential for staying healthy during the monsoon season

Hyderabad, 17th September 2024: Novotel Hyderabad Airport, the globally renowned hospitality gem, and a distinguished name under the Accor brand, proudly marks its 16th anniversary today. This milestone represents the hotel’s steadfast commitment to delivering outstanding service and creating memorable guest experiences, further solidifying its reputation as a leading hospitality destination.

Since opening in 2008, Novotel Hyderabad Airport has continuously elevated the guest experience, serving as a trusted choice for both business and leisure travellers. The anniversary celebration, led by General Manager Sukhbir Singh, was a significant occasion to honor the hotel’s enduring relationships with its guests and partners.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sukhbir Singh, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “The past 16 years of operational excellence at Novotel Hyderabad Airport are a testament to the resilience of every associate and this is an opportunity to celebrate them. The Novotel brigade consistently delivers a diverse range of exquisite experiences, delighting guests with the best of hospitality services. This anniversary reflects our unwavering commitment to hospitality excellence and a promise of Novotel’s continued commitment as a haven of comfort, and personalized guest attention”.

Novotel Hyderabad Airport has recently introduced several cutting-edge improvements aimed at enhancing guest experience and further strengthening their sustainability pillar. The business hospitality destination has been bestowed with Green Key certification from the Centre for Environment Education (CEE). Green Key Certification is a prestigious international eco-label awarded to hospitality establishments committed to environmental stewardship and sustainable operations. Among the most notable practices include the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

As Novotel Hyderabad Airport celebrates 16 years of service, the property expresses its heartfelt thanks to its loyal guests, dedicated team, and valued partners. Looking forward, the hotel remains dedicated to setting new benchmarks in hospitality, continually raising the bar for guest satisfaction and luxury.

17th Sept 2024: Marengo Asia Hospitals organized a Bikers’ Rally in collaboration with CanHeal National Road Safety Program to create an increased awareness of road safety. Raising road safety awareness involves a multifaceted approach, including education and community engagement. Recognizing the responsibility of every citizen, this campaign was launched to highlight the importance of road safety. Effective campaigns use compelling messages to change behaviors and attitudes toward safe driving and the theme of this event was ‘Ride for a Cause to Promote Road Safety’. Around 200 bikers were participating in this event. With this event, Marengo Asia Hospitals has attempted to partner with the government and administration of Gurugram to become the first responders to accident and emergency care with the intent of saving as many lives as possible. The Guests of Honor flagging off the event were Chief Medical Officer, Gurugram, Dr Virender Yadav, Dy CMO, Mr Anuj Garg, DCP Traffic, Mr Vijender Vij, Mr Ankit Chouksey, SDM IAS, Gurugram, and Dr Raajiv Singhal, Managing Director & Group CEO, Marengo Asia Hospitals.

The rally commenced the journey from Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram and concluded at Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad. Road safety jackets for every participating biker were provided by the healthcare provider. Additionally, the hospital also hosted training programs specially designed for the participants in ACLS, BKLS, and ATLS. The bike riders will be given BLS & ATLS which is acute trauma life support training to ensure that they can become ambassadors of road safety and help save more lives. A basic health checkup team for BP, sugar, and more was conducted for the bikers. The event concluded with a special recognition for classic riders with a felicitation on stage with flowers by Marengo Asia Hospitals. The event was tweeted by the DC Gurugram, Mr Nishant Yadav in support of the cause. The rally was escorted by the 5-G ambulances that were launched by Marengo Asia Hospital Gurugram last week.

Dr Virender Yadav, CMO, Gurugram said, “As responsible citizens, it is time we all united to do something about the outcomes of road accidents every year. A healthcare provider is one of the core components of society and Marengo Asia Hospitals has taken their responsibility on a serious note to organize such an event. We should keep up this momentum so increased awareness is spread regularly.”

Mr Vijender Vij, DCP Traffic, Gurugram said, “As we gather to promote road safety, let us remember that every step we take today can save a life tomorrow. Road safety is not just a policy but a shared responsibility. Together, we can create safer roads for our children, families, and communities. Join us in this rally to raise awareness and drive change—because every life matters and every journey should be safe. My appreciation goes to Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram and Faridabad for taking up the responsibility to organize this event to increase awareness in the young population on road safety.”

Mr Ankit Chouksey, SDM IAS, Gurugram says, “Road safety is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of every individual on the road. As much as the authorities are working tirelessly to implement measures, improve infrastructure, and enforce traffic laws, the everyday choices we make as drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists determine the safety of our roads. Whether wearing a seatbelt, adhering to speed limits, avoiding distractions, or ensuring our vehicles are well-maintained, small actions can significantly reduce accidents. I appreciate the efforts of Marengo Asia Hospitals for organizing this event to foster a culture of awareness, patience, and respect for one another. Through such initiatives, we can move closer to achieving the goal of safer roads for all. The key to road safety lies in partnership and shared responsibility.”

Dr Raajiv Singhal, Managing Director & Group CEO, Marengo Asia Hospitals says, “Marengo Asia Hospitals believes ‘Every life matters, every minute counts’ and today’s rally is a powerful testament to the strength of community and the impact we can make when we come together for a cause as vital as road safety. Each step we take is a stride toward safer roads, more responsible driving, and a future where every life is valued and protected. A humanitarian mindset of helping trauma victims is a significant step towards a better society. By raising awareness and fostering a culture of care and vigilance, we are not just advocating for road safety—we are shaping a brighter, safer tomorrow for all. Together, we are making a difference, and it all starts with the collective power of compassion and action. We are thankful to every participant who joined us in making this an impactful occasion for a social cause.”

Road crashes remain a persistent global threat, resulting in a staggering figure of 1.35 million deaths each year, exceeding the number of deaths that occur due to natural disasters. Tragically, 93% of these fatalities happen in developing countries, India being hard-hit, with over 450 lives lost on its roads daily, disproportionately affecting the poor. The urgency of raising road safety awareness has never been more critical. Every year road crashes result in the loss of lakhs of lives and serious injuries to crores of people. In India itself, about eighty thousand people are killed in road crashes every year which is thirteen percent of the total fatality all over the world. Almost 68 % of road accident deaths took place in rural areas whereas urban areas accounted for 32 % of total accident deaths in the country. A significant number of victims of road accidents are young and of working age. Deaths and permanent disabilities in this age group are an economic loss to the nation too.

India – Dr. Nilratan Shende, an IIT Bombay alumnus and social entrepreneur, is spearheading a transformative initiative aimed at addressing poverty, hunger, and environmental degradation. Through his organization, EAGL Livelihood Foundation, Dr. Shende is working towards planting 10 million trees and empowering 2 lakh farmers while conserving $59 million in carbon credits.

A flagship project of EAGL, Vasundhara, pioneers the integration of blockchain technology in agro-forestry to combat the escalating challenges of global climate change. By forging innovative public-private-community partnerships, the project ensures regulatory compliance, monitors environmental impact, and guarantees transparency throughout the project lifecycle.

The vision behind EAGL and subsequently Vasundhara evolved from Dr. Shende’s PhD research at IIT Bombay, which focused on poverty and hunger among tribal communities in Maharashtra. “We started EAGL to eradicate poverty and reduce the vulnerabilities that lead to exploitation in these communities. It was essential for us to create a scalable model that could empower people, foster social inclusion, and contribute to nation-building,” said Dr. Shende.

He further emphasized the pivotal role of blockchain in enhancing governance and accountability in the project “Transparency, impact assessment, and tangible outcomes are vital for effective CSR project management. With blockchain technology, we have revolutionized governance and monitoring, ensuring secure, scalable solutions,” added Dr. Shende.

Multiple corporates like LTIMindtree Ltd, HDFC Bank, Happiest Mind Ltd, General Insurance Corporation of India and Protean along with others, have come forward to support and fund the initiative. Speaking about the project, Mr. Pratyush Panda, Head EGS and Sustainability at LTIMindtree Ltd said, “At LTIMindtree, we believe in fostering initiatives that not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also uplift communities. EAGL’s Vasundhara project is a perfect alignment of these goals and by supporting this initiative, we are not only helping to combat climate change but also empowering rural farmers and creating a lasting social and environmental legacy. We are proud to be a part of this transformative effort and look forward to seeing its impact grow in the years to come.”

Impact of Vasundhara Project

• Current plantation: Over 600,000 trees
•  Goal for the next 5 years: 10 million trees
• Farmers to be empowered: 200,000 families
• Species planted: 10 to 12 varieties
• Land mobilized: 60,000 acres across 5 states
• Conservative carbon credit valuation: $59.9 million
• Income generation per farmer: INR 1 lakh within five years, with potential for exponential growth.

Not only focusing on ecological restoration through extensive tree planting, but the project also unlocks substantial economic avenues for rural farmers. The income generation projections offer a promising pathway towards sustainable livelihoods and inclusive growth.