All posts by Rabindra

Altinho,Goa- October 2, 2024: The Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa aims to create a secure and trusted online environment for all citizens. As the demand for digital government services continues to grow, so does the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information from potential threats.

The government has established comprehensive cybersecurity guidelines that all vendors, contractors, and service delivery agencies (SDAs) are mandated to follow, ensuring the highest standards of data protection. By incorporating security protocols at every stage of application development—from design to deployment and maintenance—vendors are working to keep citizens data safe and secure across all government operations.

To enhance the security of IT assets in remote data centers and cloud environments, the use of Hardware VPN Tokens and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) with VPN services is highly recommended. Additionally, DITE&C is organizing a specialized workshop for all government website developers and associated stakeholders. This workshop will focus on ensuring compliance with top security standards, updating vendors on the latest cybersecurity protocols, and aligning website stakeholders with best practices for secure operations.

All website design and development agencies empanelled under the WDDA project are required to adhere to the software security standards outlined in GIGW 3.0. This includes installing SSL certificates, conducting timely security audits, ensuring compliance, and obtaining STQC certification and adherence to TLS protocols.

To address any new and existing vulnerabilities, thorough audits of all government websites are conducted, focusing on identifying and rectifying security gaps. The renewal of SSL certificates for websites is also being prioritized, reinforcing online infrastructure. In addition, vendors are now required to provide comprehensive reports detailing their information security practices, promoting transparency and accountability.

All personnel involved in government operations are required to comply with established cybersecurity policies and undergo regular training, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the latest security challenges. By enforcing these stringent guidelines, the government aims to build a robust framework that not only protects sensitive information but also fosters public trust in digital governance.

It is essential for government entities and their designated SDA/vendors/contractors to implement strong cybersquatting measures as the ICT infrastructure of the government remains a priority for safeguarding against malicious actors. Responsibility for effective cybersquatting practices lies with ICT asset owners and their partners, ensuring comprehensive protection for computers, servers, applications, and data from digital attacks.

Cyber Safety Guidelines for website development vendors  have been meticulously developed by DITE&C, Government of Goa and the objective of these guidelines is to establish a prioritized baseline for cybersecurity measures and controls, ensuring a secure framework when government-designated SDA/vendors/contractors manage ICT projects for government departments and autonomous bodies.

The Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, Govt. of Goa is committed to upholding the highest standards of cybersecurity to ensure the safety and privacy of all citizens as it continues to advance Goa’s digital landscape.

On October 5th 2024, the city Kharadi, Pune will witness a dazzling spectacle as RAANYA, the innovative creation of Ridaan Array, will make its grand return for third season. The fashion and lifestyle exhibition exceeded expectations in its last seasons, promising and delivering an event that was bigger and better than ever before.

A Showcase for Small Business Excellence

RAANYA Season 3 will be a beacon for small and medium-scale entrepreneurs, offering them an unparalleled platform to display their exceptional products and services. The exhibition will feature a wide range of offerings, from exquisite clothing to thoughtful gifting solutions, catering to every taste and occasion.

The Perfect Pre-Festivity Shopping Destination

As the auspicious festival season approached, RAANYA Season 3 is an ideal shopping destination. Visitors will be treated to a plethora of stalls adorned with handpicked products, ensuring they found the perfect gifts for their beloved ones.

A Hub for Networking and Socializing

Beyond the allure of fashion and shopping, RAANYA Season 3 will serve a prime venue for networking and social interactions. Entrepreneurs will connect with like-minded individuals, exchanged ideas, and forged new business partnerships, making the exhibition an invaluable opportunity to expand professional circles.

Accompanied by Panel Discussion on ‘Research Integrity and its Role in Strengthening Social Science Research’ as part of its India Research Tour 2024

Prof. Anil Sutar, Dean, School of Research Methodology, TISS, Harsh Jegadeesan, Chief Publishing Officer, Springer Nature, Venkatesh Sarvasiddhi, MD, Springer nature India Private Limited, Prof Sheila Rai, Council Member, ICSSR and Nidhi Gulati, Country Communication Director, Springer Nature Group, India.

Mumbai, 3rd October 2024 – Springer Nature has launched its new fully open access Cureus Journal of Business and Economics at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai. This significant milestone is part of Springer Nature’s ongoing India Research Tour 2024 – a flagship initiative in collaboration with the Government of India, Indian Council of Social Sciences Research (ICSSR), and 26 partner institutions across nine Indian states.

The Cureus Journals Series of Journals by Springer Nature are community-based journals aimed at fostering collaboration and equity in research. They provide an innovative platform for open-access publishing, bridging academia and real-world research applications. The USP of these journals is its unique and efficient platform offering free peer-reviewed publishing with optional low-cost editing services, focused on equity, affordability and faster publishing. The Cureus Journal of Business and Economics is the 4th in the series, preceded by Cureus Journals of Medical Science, Engineering and Computer Science.

Harsh Jegadeesan, Chief Publishing Officer, Springer Nature, while speaking at the launch, emphasized the importance of open access in democratizing knowledge and making research accessible to a broader audience. He said: “The launch of Cureus Journal of Business and Economics marks a pivotal moment for Springer Nature as we continue our journey towards fostering open access publishing. This journal will play a critical role in disseminating high-quality research on global, economic and business challenges, especially in emerging economies like India and the Global South. At Springer Nature, we believe that open access is essential to advancing knowledge equity, and we are proud to contribute to the growth of research in these fields.”

Venkatesh Sarvasiddhi, Managing Director, Springer Nature India, highlighted the significance of the journal in India’s research landscape, stating: “India is emerging as a global hub for business and economic research, and we are committed to supporting this momentum with our Cureus Journal of Business and Economics. With our fully open access journals, we are empowering researchers and practitioners alike to access cutting-edge insights and contribute to solutions for today’s pressing economic issues. This aligns with our broader goal of enabling impactful research through our India Research Tour, which fosters dialogues around key issues such as research integrity.”

The launch was accompanied with an insightful panel discussion on ‘Research Integrity and its Role in Strengthening Social Science Research,’ reinforcing Springer Nature’s commitment to promoting transparency, rigor, and ethical research practices in academia. The panel comprised of Prof. Anil Sutar, Dean, School of Research Methodology, TISS, Harsh Jegadeesan, Chief Publishing Officer, Springer Nature, Prof Sheila Rai, Senior Council Member, ICSSR and Nidhi Gulati, Country Communications Director, Springer Nature, India.

Professor Shankar Das, Pro Vice Chancellor, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), underscored the role of institutions in fostering responsible research, and said: “At TISS, we believe in nurturing research that not only contributes to academic excellence but also addresses societal challenges with integrity. This collaboration with Springer Nature is a testament to our shared vision to promote ethical research practices. Integrity in research is the foundation to building public trust and ensuring that our work truly benefits the society.”

The event also had a keynote from Dr. Harsh Jegadeesan and Prof. Sheila Rai, and a RISE (Research Integrity in Science and Education) Masterclass by Dr. Ed Gerstner, Director, Research Environment Alliances, Springer Nature, London.

Springer Nature remains dedicated to advancing global research through open access publishing, and its Cureus Journal of Business and Economics is poised to become a leading platform for researchers across the globe to share knowledge, collaborate, and contribute to impactful solutions.

This Navratri, on popular demand, Shemaroo TV will air Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayan,’ one of India’s most famous mythological stories. Through this Ram Katha, viewers can gain valuable life lessons and enjoy uninterrupted entertainment. The legendary mythological show, featuring Arun Govil as Ram, Deepika Chikhalia as Sita and Sunil Lahiri as Lakshman, is a timeless classic on Indian television. It not only touched people emotionally but also made them feel as if they were truly witnessing Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman. The show was so beloved that people would sit with a thali of aarti before watching it.

This epic story of Lord Rama highlights many important events that teach valuable life lessons, relevant for all situations and age groups, even today. By airing this show, Shemaroo TV aims to stay connected with its audience and inspire them.

Watch India’s greatest mythological story, Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayan,’ airing from 3rd October, every Monday to Sunday at 8 PM, only on Shemaroo TV.

By Vikrant Kaushal, Senior Sales Manager, Consortium Gifts

Festivals provide an excellent opportunity for brands to show gratitude to their consumers. With more than 70% of global consumers stating that they are more likely to buy from brands that appreciate their loyalty, gratitude-driven marketing can boost not just sales but also long-term customer relationships. This is particularly pertinent in the Indian market which has a large, extended festive season from Raksha Bandhan to Christmas, which presents a significant window to connect with customers emotionally and meaningfully. There are several ways how brands can leverage consumer insights and data to express gratitude and stand out in a competitive market this festive season.

1. Personalised Festive Offers: A Data-Backed Approach

Personalisation remains the key aspect of brand engagement, with eight out of ten customers more likely to engage in business with a brand that offers personalisation. For example, offering a specific festival discount by analysing the consumer’s past purchasing behaviour or targeting festival-specific preferences boost involvement.

Today, artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms are enabling brands to promote highly personalised vouchers and discounts, as they advertise and target a consumer based on location, past purchases, consumer behaviour during the process, etc. The silver-lining is personalised offers can boost sales by 30% during the festive season.

2. Limited-Edition Festive Products and Packaging

Exclusive, limited-edition products tied to festivals are an effective way to show gratitude. By rolling out products designed specifically for Diwali, Durga Puja, or Christmas with themed packaging, brands can create a sense of excitement and exclusivity. Every year, leading chocolate brands in our country roll-out various festive themed packaging even before the festivities arrive along with festive flavors like saffron or cardamom. Even something as simple as customised, eco-friendly packaging can significantly impact brand perception.

3. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Festive Giving

Consumers today are keen to align with brands that share their values, especially those emphasising social responsibility. The festive season is the ideal time for brands to reflect these values by engaging in charitable initiatives. Over 70% of consumers are more likely to support brands that donate a portion of their profits to a good cause during festivals.

This festive season, brands can show gratitude by linking sales to social good. For instance, donating a percentage of sales to local charities or causes resonates strongly with today’s youth and socially conscious shoppers. A leading LA based shoe company has been donating their 1/3 of profits supporting the people who are working to build equity at the local level. They also fund various mental health related projects. Not only does it elevate your brand’s image, but it also fosters consumer trust and loyalty. TATA group is one of the leading examples in such cases and how they have built a good-will among the public through their socially responsible activities.

4. Exclusive Events and Experiences: Going Beyond Just Products

By offering exclusive experiences, both online and offline, brands can create long-lasting emotional connections. Experiential marketing has seen a 30% year-on-year increase in effectiveness, especially among millennial and Gen Z audiences, according to a 2024 McKinsey report.

Brands can express gratitude by hosting festive events, both in-store and virtually, including giveaways, online contests, and product tutorials. Collaborating with influencers who can create immersive digital experiences can further enhance the consumer experience. The rise of metaverse-based marketing is expected to grow by 50% by 2025, offering brands new avenues to connect with younger, tech-savvy audiences during festivals.

5. Loyalty Rewards: Strengthening Bonds Through Data

Festivals are the great time of the year to foster loyalty programs. A recent KMPG survey unveiled that around 70% consumers would shop more often with brands that reward them for their loyalty. Incorporating AI-driven loyalty platforms allows brands to track consumer preferences and behaviour in real time, ensuring rewards are more relevant than ever. Offering tiered rewards during the festive season—such as double points, exclusive access to pre-sale events, or personalised gift recommendations—fosters repeat purchases and sustained engagement. Many e-commerce platforms have also leveraged this prospect by offering free credit cards to their consumers with reward points and heavy discounts. Loyal customers also get earlier access to their festive sales.

6. Thoughtful Festive Greetings

Something as simple as a personalised festive message can have a big impact. In 2024, 43% of consumers report feeling valued when they receive personalised greetings from brands they engage with, according to a Salesforce survey.

Automating festive greetings using customer data (e.g., purchase history, birthdays, and cultural preferences) can add a thoughtful, human touch to brand communications. These messages can be delivered via email, SMS, or through social media DMs, acknowledging not only the festival but also the customer’s loyalty.

7. Leveraging User-Generated Content

In 2024, UGC campaigns are expected to contribute to a 12% rise in brand trust, especially among younger audiences. Encouraging your consumers to share their festive moments using branded hashtags can help build a sense of community.

By offering incentives, such as gift hampers or discount codes, for the best user-generated content, brands can show appreciation while also generating organic publicity.

8. Digital Gifting: The Growing Trend of 2024

According to EY’s Digital Consumer Report 2024, digital gifting has risen by 45% since the pandemic and is expected to continue growing. Offering e-gift cards, digital vouchers, or personalised digital experiences shows that your brand is in touch with modern trends. These options also cater to last-minute shoppers, with 25% of consumers now opting for digital gifts due to convenience and personalization. Digital gifting is especially appealing to the younger demographic, who expect seamless, on-the-go experiences during the holiday season.

Conclusion

Festivals are not only sales points: it’s a perfect time when brands may express their appreciation to their consumers. For offers targeted to specific client, unique products or promotional offers, CSR activities, brand events, and digital vouchers, brand can build the consumer engagement, and develop a long-term emotional connection with the consumers.
Consumer data are still important and necessary for the process of becoming successful in this cut-throat era of marketing. Therefore it can be reiterated that by compassing your consumers and adapting to their needs during this time of the year, brands can remain relevant, competitive and notably, appreciated.

Mumbai, October 03, 2024: Uber, the global ride-hailing app, today announced the launch of its new brand campaign starring popular actors and father-son duo Jackie Shroff and Tiger Shroff. The campaign aims to redefine the perception of urban mobility by showcasing how Uber removes the struggle from travel, allowing people to make better use of their time than worrying about how they’d find a transport option.

The campaign features Uber’s array of popular products including Uber Moto, Uber Auto, Uber Intercity, and the newly launched Uber Shuttle.

While the younger generation of the day has been raised with Uber being available almost throughout their lives, their parents and grandparents lived through the times when commuting was a struggle. The ease and convenience that comes with booking an Uber for mobility needs on demand has been experienced and voiced by people across age groups. In a recent survey conducted by Censuswide, an overwhelming 89.8% of the respondents said their definition of an easy commute was tapping their phone and booking a convenient and safe ride.

As many as 76.8% of the respondents between the ages of 18 and 25 said technology has changed the way they travel by helping them make better use of their time. The figure was a very close 72% for respondents aged over 45.

For the campaign, Uber has paired the father-son duo to bring to screen the contrast of how transport was before the advent of ridesharing apps and how convenient it is now. This is the first time Jackie and Tiger Shroff have come together for a commercial brand campaign.

At the heart of the campaign is a captivating intergenerational story exploring the differences and transformation in travel experiences. The narrative ingeniously depicts the evolution of urban commuting, juxtaposing the struggles of the past with the ease of the present.

The ad films have been produced by Fuel Content, with FCB India being the creative agency for the campaign.

Commenting on the campaign, Ameya Velankar, Head of Marketing, Uber India said, “Uber has fundamentally transformed the way we travel, bridging the gap between generations with solutions that cater to diverse needs and challenges. While we know that struggle is good in life, it toughens us up, Uber believes that there’s always a simpler way to move—literally at the tap of a button. To capture this shift, we’ve brought together the popular, fresh duo of Jackie and Tiger Shroff. Their chemistry and relatability make them the perfect ambassadors to reflect how Uber is the perfect solution for all your mobility needs.”

Speaking about the production and his experience, director Vasan Bala said, “It was an absolute blast working with Jackie Shroff and Tiger for this Uber campaign. Most refreshing to see this duo for the first time on screen this way. The teams at FCB and Fuel made sure it was a super fun and smooth shoot.”

The integrated campaign will run for approximately 20 weeks across various channels including OTT, TV, OLV, OOH, Digital/Social, along with innovative activations to engage consumers directly.

Kolkata, 3 October 2024: Indian Chamber of Commerce convened its 96th Annual General Meeting on Monday, 30th September 2024 at JW Marriott, Kolkata. The event featured exclusive interactive sessions with prominent figures such as Mr. Sudarshan Venu, MD, TVS Motor Company Limited; Ms Manasi Joshi, Former World Champion in Para Badminton; Ms. Bhumi Pednekar, Renowned Bollywood Actress; Mr. Sourav Ganguly, Former Captain, Indian Cricket Team. The AGM focused on key industry challenges and opportunities, fostering discussions around sustainability, innovation, and leadership in today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape. Distinguished dignitaries like Mr. Ameya Prabhu, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce; Mr Abhyuday Jindal, Senior Vice President, Indian Chamber of Commerce; Mr. Brij Bhushan Agarwal, Vice President, Indian Chamber of Commerce; and Dr Rajeev Singh, Director General, Indian Chamber of Commerce also graced the event, sharing valuable insights into the future trajectory of Indian business and trade.

The first session focused on the Indian Chamber of Commerce’s growth from a local to a global organisation. The following dignitaries stated:

Mr Abhyuday Jindal, Senior Vice President, Indian Chamber of Commerce, stated, “2024 has been a dynamic year, thanks to active and energetic leadership. As we approach ICC’s 100th year, we have ambitious plans and exciting opportunities, including international collaborations. I appreciate everyone’s support and will need your full cooperation to make this milestone a success. We’ll focus on creating a meaningful platform, gathering feedback to continuously improve. I’m honoured to serve as your upcoming president and look forward to working together for an exciting and impactful year ahead.”

Mr. Ameya Prabhu, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce, stated, “As we celebrate ICC’s Centennial, I reflect on our incredible journey from a national chamber to a global player, with new offices across India and internationally in places like South Korea and Mauritius. Over the past year, we’ve focused on sustainable growth, skill development and job creation, with initiatives like our MSME and startups committee. ICC’s role is vital in navigating challenges like AI and climate change, ensuring a bright future for India. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues and mentors for their unwavering support and I look forward to continuing this legacy for future generations. I move to adopt the auditor’s report and financial statements and I propose the necessary resolutions in accordance with our Articles of Association.”

Dr Rajeev Singh, Director General, Indian Chamber of Commerce, stated, “I encourage everyone to reflect on this year’s highlights, as they showcase the significant impact we’ve made together through dedication and collaboration. These achievements are a testament to our collective efforts, from strengthening partnerships with government agencies to expanding opportunities in trade and investment. As we move forward, it’s important to build on this momentum, continuing to foster growth and innovation for the benefit of our members and the broader community.”

The second session explored the Viksit Framework presented by PwC. The following dignitaries stated:

Mr. Brij Bhushan Agarwal, Vice President, Indian Chamber of Commerce, stated, “Hydrogen is a critical focus area with innovations emerging to address the challenge of cost-effective production. Integrating hydrogen and natural gas solutions is essential as we meet environmental goals, especially with new solar policies and carbon reduction targets for 2028. India is on track to become the third-largest global economy, driven by advancements in digitalisation, AI and 3D technology. MSMEs are vital to this growth, supporting larger corporations through innovation. Despite global competition, India’s export story remains strong with robust domestic demand and a competitive edge in services and manufacturing. Our abundant talent and resources position India as an attractive global manufacturing hub, creating immense opportunities for future growth.”

Mr. Ranen Banerjee, Representative, PwC, stated, “The VIKSIT program and the Big City Initiative are pivotal in driving India’s ambitious merchandise export targets. While global trade disruptions are not new, India’s stable economy post-Ukraine conflict positions us to capitalise on these challenges, especially in diversifying supply chains. Although matching China’s manufacturing scale is difficult, the perception of ‘Made in India’ has improved significantly. Focusing on product quality, innovation and sustainability is essential for competitiveness. The VIKSIT framework encourages companies to enhance production capabilities while aligning with stringent European standards and ESG principles. Mr. Agarwal underscores the importance of effective government spending and stable policies in creating a conducive business environment. With dedicated efforts, India can achieve its export goals and progress toward becoming a developed nation.”

Mr. Subhojeet Chakravarty, Represntative, PwC, stated, “I thank the Indian Chamber of Commerce for discussing the ‘VIKSIT Approach’ to help India achieve its one trillion-dollar export target. While this goal is vital, we must also tackle associated challenges. India’s status as the fifth-largest economy is driven by international trade, with over 1,400 commodities contributing more than 400 billion dollars in exports. We need to enhance export value addition, diversify markets and support the MSME sector, which contributes 28% of exports. PwC’s VIKSIT framework—focused on Value addition, Infrastructure, export facilitation, Efficiency and Networking—will guide us. Key sectors like Electronics, Automobiles and Food Processing have the potential to boost exports by 150 billion dollars. Lastly, let’s empower our youth, our greatest asset, to engage in sports and physical activity for a brighter future.”

The third session advocates for Women’s Empowerment, Climate Action and Ending Gender Violence in the Film Industry:

Ms. Bhumi Pednekar, Renowned Bollywood Actress, expressed, “I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities that have allowed me to pursue my passion for acting. From a young age, I was determined to enter this industry, despite my father’s concerns about its challenges. While luck plays a role in success, my focus has always been on telling impactful stories that celebrate real heroes, especially women. My greatest inspiration has been my mother, whose unwavering dedication as a single parent taught me resilience and the importance of giving back to my community. I aspire to inspire others by demonstrating that it is possible to rise from uncertainty to success. I firmly believe we need more films that honour women’s contributions to society, particularly those who have driven significant change. Since beginning my climate advocacy with Climate Warrior in 2018, I have emphasised our collective responsibility to restore environmental balance. The urgent threat of climate change affects us all and it is essential that we unite for a sustainable future. Regarding violence against women, addressing gender bias requires generations of change. It is alarming how normalised violence has become in society and we must work together to create a safe environment for future generations, ensuring respect for women is instilled from an early age. I am committed to nurturing empathy and accountability within our industry. Together, we can inspire transformative change.”

The fourth session highlights the Power of Resilience and Inclusion in Para Sports:

Ms Manasi Joshi, Former World Champion in Para Badminton, expressed, “My journey has not been easy; after a life-altering accident that left me hospitalised for 45 days and required six surgeries, it was sports that became my lifeline. Badminton was my rehabilitation tool, helping me regain my strength and ultimately leading me to compete at national and international levels. For over a decade, I have proudly represented my country and my first international tournament was particularly poignant. It was a powerful reminder of how far I had come from my time in the hospital. While I have faced setbacks, including disappointments at the Olympic Games, the progress in para-sports is encouraging, as evidenced by India winning 129 medals at the Paralympics. I believe organisations must ally with us to create inclusive environments. With a significant population living with disabilities in India, understanding that inclusion is essential is the first step. Companies should see accommodations as necessary for ensuring equal access, not just as facilities. To promote inclusion, we need to change perceptions of disability. It is part of my identity but does not define me. Beyond sports, I have diverse interests like gardening and embroidery. Initiatives like inclusive dolls representing people with disabilities are heartening and teach young people the value of embracing diversity. Thank you for this opportunity to share my story, and I welcome any questions from the audience.”

The fifth session reflects on Leadership, Resilience and the Evolving Landscape of Indian Sports:

Mr. Sourav Ganguly, Former Captain, Indian Cricket Team, expressed, “I grew up in an era when playing sports was driven by a pure love for the game, inspired by legends like Kapil Dev. Back then, we played not for financial security but for the honour of representing our country. Today, it’s heartening to see children viewing sports as a viable career path. When I took over as captain in 2000, my leadership philosophy was shaped by my experiences as a young player. I prioritised creating a supportive environment for new players to thrive, emphasising the importance of collective success over individual accolades. As a recent owner of the Kolkata Royal Tiger Racing team, I am excited about the potential of motorsport in India. Just like T20 cricket, I believe this sport can grow significantly in our unique market. Nurturing talent in sports is about recognising potential in real-time, especially under pressure. During my career, I saw young players like Sehwag and Yuvraj rise to the occasion. It’s vital to find individuals who contribute to the team’s success. Failures, such as the 2003 World Cup final, taught me resilience. It’s crucial to learn from setbacks and continuously push yourself, regardless of past achievements. The best players recover quickly from failures and this mindset is essential for success in any field.”

The sixth session outlines Strategic Vision for Growth and Innovation in a Competitive Market:

Mr. Sudarshan Venu, MD, TVS Motor Company Limited, stated, “Since taking the helm at TVS Motors, I have seen the company significantly grow its market cap and make key international acquisitions, including Norton in the UK and e-bike companies in Switzerland. Looking ahead, I shared my plans for TVS’s next phase, which includes establishing teams in various countries to develop region-specific products. My vision involves localized strategies that cater to diverse market segments, all while upholding our commitment to quality and technology. I also hope to inspire young entrepreneurs, sharing that taking over a family business comes with its own challenges and responsibilities. It’s essential to embrace foundational values while adapting to future opportunities. I highlighted the importance of team-building and nurturing talent for future challenges, recognising that the business landscape is constantly evolving. On work-life balance, I stressed the significance of pursuing work you enjoy and the necessity of discipline in both professional and personal realms. In addressing challenges, I underscored the importance of gathering customer feedback to inform decision-making, particularly in understanding why 80% of the market may not choose our products. Looking ahead, I see tremendous opportunities for TVS in the next 5-10 years, with plans to expand into new markets, introduce more premium products in India and grow our financial services segment, aiming to position TVS Financial Services as a leading non-banking financial company in the country.”

Hyderabad, October 03, 2024-The three-day G-SPARC 2024, Global South Conference on Infection Prevention, Control, and Antimicrobial Stewardship began on Thursday morning at Shilpakalavedika in Madhapur in the city.

Speaking on the Management of outbreaks and health crises- a politician’s perspective, Ms. Shailaja Teacher, Former Health Minister of Kerala said Infection Prevention and Control, AMR (Anti Microbial Resistance) are global issues. AMR is a silent pandemic she said. AMR is recognized as a global health security threat by WHO (World Health Organisation), CDC(Centre for Disease Control), and UN(United Nations). UN addressed AMR as early as 2016. She gave insights into the preparedness before COVID spread and how proactive measures about AMR, its ‘ policy were taken in Kerala, etc and the introduction of the AMR action plan, the first time India proved to be very effective.

Speaking further she said we need one health approach to address AMR. The estimated global cost it is $ 1000 trillion by 2050.

Kerala became the first state in India to release a sub-national Actional Plan called KARSAP in 2018 and it is conceptualized and implemented on a One Health Platform. We launched the Antibiotic Literate Kerala Campaign in 2019 to make all citizens of Kerala aware of the judicious use of antibiotics in all sectors. We have also launched an AI-based Antibiogram App, she said.

Participating in a panel discussion on the Leadership role in IPC & AMS policy and practices, Dr. Evita Fernandez- Chair of the Fernandez Foundation said nurses are true custodians of the patients. However, they are scared to raise issues when the patient’s health is compromised. When anyone including doctors touches the patient, they need to be sanitized well. Nurses must get their respect. They are not subordinates to doctors. They are our colleagues. Nurses play a big role in stopping infections spread to patients. Doctors must change their attitudes towards nurses and give mutual respect, she added.

Dr Anuj Sharma of the WHO Country Office of India said for an effective AMR plan and its implementation we need a state government’s concurrence on IPC (Infection, Prevention, and Control) and AMR

The panel discussion was moderated by Dr.Hari Prasad-Chaiman – CARE Group of hospitals

The panelists were Dr. Evita Fernandez- Chair, Fernandez Foundation Dr.Gurunath Reddy-Chairman – Continental Hospital; Dr.Vincy Tribhuvan -VP- Of nursing, CARE Group; Dr. Giridhar Gyani -DG- AHPI; Dr. Kashipa Harit- Deputy Director NABH; Dr. Anuj Sharma-Team Focal Point – AMR | IPC, World Health Organization, Country O ce for India

Earlier the meeting began with a session on Understanding the science of complexity and its applications in IPC by Prof. Dr. Vijay V.Yeldandi, Clinical Professor of Medicine and Surgery, University of Illinois, Chicago, USA.

Another session by Dr Annie Thakore, CEO, of Pranaam Hospital Enhancing Infection Control Practices in Hospital Settings followed it.

A panel discussion on the Role of Environmental surveillance in mitigating infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance was held. The Panelists were Dr. Rakesh Mishra, Director, Tata Institute of Genetics and Society (TIGS), Bengaluru and Principal Investigator, Alliance for Pathogen Surveillance Innovations (APSI)-India; Dr. Vinay K. Nandicoori, Director, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad and Principal Investigator, APSI-India; Dr. Aruna Panda, Program Director, APSI-India, CCMB, Hyderabad; Dr. Shivranjani C. Moharir, Senior Scientist, TIGS; Dr. Mahesh Dharne, Senior Principal Scientist, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune

Some of the prominent speakers who participated in the conference include Dr Anuj Sharma, WHO India Office; Prof Chedly Azzouz, Chairperson, Infection Control Africa Network; Prof. (Dr.) Atul Goel, DGHS & Director, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC); Ms Shailaja Teacher, MLA and Former-Health Minister, Govt of Kerala

The objective of the conference is to provide a platform for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), and Patient Safety stakeholders from Global South (resource-limited countries in Asia, Africa, Middle East, South America) to collaborate for better policies, research, tailored solutions and practices on IPC, AMS and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and pandemic preparedness.

Mumbai, October 03, 2024: Education in Ireland, the national brand representing Irish Higher Education Institutions worldwide, conducted their flagship Education Roadshow 2024 in Mumbai. Hosted at The St. Regis Mumbai, Lower Parel, the fair showcased 18 top Irish Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) at this annual event.

Over 300 aspiring Indian students and parents engaged with senior representatives and academics from Ireland’s higher education institutions, gaining insights into Ireland’s educational landscape, course offerings, and post-study work options.

Mr. Barry O’Driscoll, Regional Manager, India & South Asia for Education in Ireland, expressed his delight at the success of the fair, saying, “We are thrilled to see the growing interest of Indian students in Ireland’s world-class higher education institutions. Mumbai has given us a fantastic response and we are excited to meet prospective students in the other two cities. With over 8,000 Indian students choosing Ireland last year, we look forward to welcoming talented students from across India to our institutions.”

The event proved to be a remarkable success, with Indian students showing great enthusiasm for Ireland as a top study destination. The roadshow also included a seminar on the student visa process presented by the Irish Visa Office and had experts who offered accommodation and financial advice for those looking to study abroad.

Apart from Mumbai, the Education in Ireland fair has concluded in Delhi and Pune and is scheduled for 2 other cities: Bengaluru, and Chennai.

“We want to showcase all that an education in Ireland can offer to international students- be it a welcoming environment, friendly people, and world class institutions that have industry-led programmes taught by distinguished faculty. The fair provides a platform for students to connect directly with university representatives and academics, allowing them to ask detailed questions about courses, visa requirements, and career opportunities. The face-to-face interactions with institutions and other experts help clarify concerns around studying abroad, and further strengthens Ireland’s reputation as a preferred destination for Indian students”, Mr. O’Driscoll added.

October 3, 2024: The University of Tasmania is delighted to present the Tasmanian International Scholarship. Designed to recognize and reward academic excellence, this prestigious scholarship offers eligible new international students a 25% reduction in tuition fees per year for the entire duration of their chosen program.

The scholarship marks the university’s commitment to fostering relationships with international students including India and promoting cultural exchange and diversity within the campus community. This scholarship offer aims to provide opportunities for students from India to pursue higher education and contribute to the global learning environment at the university.

The scholarship is awarded based on the applicant’s highest qualification before starting their intended program, with a minimum one-year duration.

Additionally, admitted international students also get a chance to apply for a successive scholarship at the end of their first academic semester based on their grade performance during the semester, giving students a chance to further increase their scholarship value.

Eligibility:

International students, applying for undergraduate degrees, excluding the Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine, Bachelor of Dementia Care, and AMC Seafaring courses, will automatically be considered for the Tasmanian International Scholarship by the Admissions Team. The scholarship is also available to international applicants for postgraduate coursework degrees, with some course exclusions.

As qualifications and grading scales differ by country, applicants are notified of their scholarship status in their offer letter once the results are submitted. The letter includes the scholarship’s terms and conditions, which must be reviewed carefully. This scholarship is available only to new students, and current students are not reassessed based on their academic performance at the University of Tasmania.

Value:

25% reduction in registered tuition fees for the duration of the course.

How to apply:

Students are assessed automatically for the Tasmanian International Scholarship upon submission of their International Student Application, there is no need to apply separately, nor do recipients need to apply for ongoing eligibility.