All posts by Rabindra

Apeejay International School, Greater Noida, brought the joyous spirit of Teej Mela to life on August 6, 2024, at the Club House of Paramount Golf Foreste Society. The event was a grand success, with participation from approximately 30 ladies and five dedicated teachers, including Ms. Preeti Pandey, Ms. Bhumika, Ms. Sushmita, Ms. Kanta, and Ms. Disha.

The Teej Mela featured a variety of engaging activities that were engaging and fun for all the ladies. The Musical Chairs game saw Lavi Vajpayee emerge as the winner. The Solo Dance Competition showcased nine participants, with four securing victory. In the Solo Singing segment two talented singers competed, which lit up the atmosphere of the event, adding grace to the event.The Ramp Walk segment was a highlight which culminated the crowning of Mrs. Teej, with Ms. Shruti taking the top honour.

The event concluded with a Prize Distribution ceremony, a celebration of achievements that made the entire community proud. All the teachers emerged themselves in the celebration of the joy, love, and auspiciousness of the festival. The Teej Mela was a resounding success, bringing the community an exceptional and memorable experience.

New Delhi, India , 7th August 2024: Shree Ramkrishna Knowledge Foundation (SRKKF), the philanthropic arm of Shree Ramkrishna Exports (SRK), a renowned natural diamond company is proud to announce the Santokbaa Humanitarian Award, a prestigious event celebrating individuals and institutions dedicated to making the world a better place. The ceremony will take place on August 10th, Saturday, at the Jio World Convention Centre.

The Santokbaa Humanitarian Award was instituted in 2006 by Shri Govind Dholakia, Founder Chairman of SRK, SRKKF, and Rajya Sabha MP as a tribute to the humanitarian values of selflessness, compassion, and service, embodying the selfless spirit and vision of his mother, Santokbaa Laljidada Dholakia. Through this award, SRK Knowledge Foundation continues to honour individuals who exemplify these values, reinforcing the importance of giving back and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

Speaking about the event, Shri Govind Dholakia said, “The Santokbaa Award is a testament to the power of compassion and a commitment to creating a positive impact on the world. We are proud to honour individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference and inspiring others to do the same. This honour underscores the power of kindness and the profound impact it can have on society.”

Previous awardees, including renowned industrialist and philanthropist Ratan Tata, spiritual icon His Holiness Dalai Lama, and engineer and innovator Sonam Wangchuk, Father of India’s White Revolution Dr. Verghese Kurien, Space Scientist and Former Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) A.S. Kiran Kumar, and social reformer Kailash Satyarthi, among others, have lauded the initiative as a cornerstone of philanthropic celebration.

“I realized how a person with a dream and a person with determination can build not just a business in Surat but a global business with humility rather than arrogance. I am privileged to have been given the honour or sharing what you have done.” Shri Ratan Tata when he was conferred with the Santokbaa Humanitarian Award.

“While having financial resources, engaging in altruism and bearing concern for others are indeed admirable. Moreover, I believe that India and the rest of the world should follow the same principles for the future like SRK. May God bless all!” remarked His Holiness Dalai Lama during a Santokbaa Award function.

This year marks a significant milestone as SRKKF is also celebrating its 10th anniversary, The Santokbaa Humanitarian Award, previously conferred by prominent figures such as the Honourable President of India, continues to uphold the highest standards of humanitarian recognition.

The recipients of the upcoming Santokbaa Humanitarian Award will be announced during the ceremony.

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad is thrilled to announce the appointment of Ramesh Chander as the new Food and Beverage (F&B) Manager. With an illustrious career spanning over 16 years in the hospitality industry, Ramesh brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our team.

Ramesh’s impressive career journey includes leadership roles at prestigious hospitality establishments. Prior to joining DoubleTree by Hilton, he served as the Food and Beverage Manager at Hilton Garden Inn, Hinjewadi, where he managed multiple F&B outlets and large-scale banquets. His extensive experience also includes roles at Godwin Hotels and Resorts, Welcomhotel Katra by ITC Hotels, Seven Seas Hotel, Jaypee Hotels & Resorts, Taj Mahal Hotel New Delhi and ITC Maurya New Delhi. Throughout his career, Ramesh has demonstrated exceptional skills in food and beverage operations, restaurant management, and banquet management.

In his new role at DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad, Ramesh will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the food and beverage operations, ensuring exceptional dining experiences, and maintaining the highest standards of service and quality.

Commenting on his new role, Ramesh said, “I am excited to join DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-Chinchwad and lead the F&B team. I look forward to bringing my experience to enhance our guests’ dining experiences and contribute to the continued success of this esteemed property.”

Outside of his professional achievements, Ramesh enjoys watching movies and traveling in his free time, which enriches his perspective and passion for the hospitality industry.

Maharashtra, 7 August 2024: ACC Limited, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, along with the Adani Foundation are committed to sustainable water resource development and management. Through CSR efforts, the Company has recently completed the construction of a Cement Nala Bund (CNB) in Dhakori village near its ACC Chanda plant. This significant project aims to address water scarcity and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Dhakori village, located in the Wani Block of Yavatmal, Maharashtra, has historically faced water availability challenges, impacting agricultural productivity and the overall life of locals. The newly constructed CNB in Dhakori boasts an impressive percolation capacity of up to 24,000 cubic metres during a single overflow event, significantly enhancing the village’s water storage capacity. The CNB provides regular water supply to approximately 220 acres of irrigation area, benefiting around 100 farmers.

This initiative contributes to increasing groundwater levels, supporting agricultural productivity, and fostering socio-economic development within the communities of the region. Furthermore, a more secure water source enables farmers to diversify their crops and increase yields, thereby improving food security and livelihoods.

ACC and the Adani Foundation are dedicated to achieving sustainable development and inclusive growth in the communities where they operate, by supporting the conservation and efficient use of precious resources such as water.

Delhi, 07/08/2024: Hotelogix, a leading global cloud-based hospitality technology provider, and its distribution brand, AxisRooms, are hosting a special hospitality event—Hotelogix & AxisRooms Connect 2024. This unique event is dedicated to domestic hospitality brands. With Booking.com as its principal sponsor, the event is scheduled for September 5, 2024, starting at 5:30 PM at The Ballroom, Roseate House, Aerocity, New Delhi.

Currently, homegrown hotel brands control about 60% of the total branded rooms available in the country. Riding high on rising religious, medical, leisure, and cultural tourism, these brands are doing better and thriving year-on-year. In 2023, the majority of property signings in the hotel market were spearheaded by domestic hotel operators, accounting for a remarkable 72% of the total signings, with each property having around 70 keys on average, a testament to their success and growth and their deep insights into the local market, culture, and guest behavior. They have effectively connected with domestic travelers, especially the growing middle and upper-middle class with higher spending power. Their ability to rapidly expand into tier 2 and 3 cities is awe-inspiring, and their success is a source of pride for the entire hospitality industry.

Aditya Sanghi, CEO of Hotelogix, said, “Recognizing the power of homegrown hotel brands is essential, as these champions are the heart and soul of India’s vibrant and diverse hospitality industry. We take pride in working with many such leading brands and we aim to unite them and the minds driving their growth to discuss the shared challenges, trends, success, and opportunities specific to this segment.”

The event will offer attendees a unique platform to exchange compelling narratives of triumph over mutual obstacles, drawing inspiration from successful brands. Furthermore, as hotels in this segment must look at a technology stack with best-in-class solutions to gain a competitive edge against global brands, every department should use a specialized solution that enables it to function at its full potential. The event will have an assemblage of such leading solutions, including Restroworks for F&B, PayU for payments, KePSLA for reputation management, and HostBooks for finance, as promoters of the event. Their participation and support underscore the significance of this event and highlight the strong partnerships that drive the hospitality industry forward.

Sundaram Finance logs disbursements of Rs. 6,908 crores, 7% over Q1FY24; AUM grows 23% to Rs. 45,671 crores

Net profit for Q1FY25 up by 9% at Rs. 308 crores

Profits from Operations up by 22% in Q1FY25

Continued improvement in asset quality with Gross Stage 3 assets at 1.56% (1.90% as of June 30, 2023) and Net Stage 3 assets at 0.84% (1.00% as of June 30, 2023)

ROA at 2.38% for Q1FY25 (2.68% for Q1FY24)

Capital Adequacy Ratio at 19.3% (21.4% for Q1FY24)

The Board of Directors of Sundaram Finance Ltd. (SFL) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the quarter ended Jun 30, 2024, at its meeting held on Aug 05, 2024, in Chennai.

“Team Sundaram has delivered a strong Q1FY25 despite lower-than-expected economic activity in the quarter. Assets under management grew by 23% to a new high of Rs. 45,671 crores, net stage 3 assets closed at 0.84% and profit after tax recorded a 9% growth to Rs. 308 crores over the prior year period. Our Group companies in asset management, general insurance and home finance have continued their trajectory from FY24 and recorded strong results. We continue to rely on our time-tested approach of steady and sustainable growth with best-in-class asset quality and consistent profitability,” said Harsha Viji, Executive Vice Chairman.

Disbursements for Q1FY25 recorded a growth of 7% over Q1FY24. Net interest income rose 20% in Q1FY25 as compared to Q1FY24. Gross stage 3 assets improved substantially over the previous year. Gross stage 3 assets as on June 30, 2024, stood at 1.56% with provision cover of 47% as against 1.90% as on June 30, 2023, with provision cover of 48%. The profit from operations is up by 22% in Q1FY25. Profit after tax at Rs. 308 crores registered an increase of 9% in Q1FY25 as against Rs. 281 crores in Q1FY24. The dividend income was lower during Q1FY25 at Rs. 18 Cr as against Rs. 51 Cr in Q1FY24. Return on assets at 2.38% as against 2.68% for Q1FY24 and capital adequacy at 19.3% remains quite comfortable to support planned growth.

“As we expected, economic activity in Q1 was disrupted by the general elections as well as a particularly hot summer. We delivered a well-balanced GQP performance in a tough operating environment. Looking ahead, we expect seamless continuity in the policy agenda of the government at the centre and that economic activity will pick up through the rest of the year. Team Sundaram will continue to remain sharply focused on delivering the Sundaram experience to our customers, our people and all stakeholders,” said Rajiv Lochan, Managing Director.

STANDALONE PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR Q1FY25

· Disbursements for Q1FY25 recorded a growth of 7% to Rs. 6,908 crores as compared to Rs. 6,489 crores registered in Q1FY24.

· The assets under management grew by 23% to Rs. 45,671 crores as on 30th June 2024 as against Rs.37,255 crores as on 30th June 2023.

· Net interest income rose 20% in Q1FY25 as compared to Q1FY24. Profit from operations increased by 22% in Q1FY25 as compared to Q1FY24.

· Gross stage 3 as on 30th June 2024 stood at 1.56% with 47% provision cover as against 1.90% with provision cover of 48% as on 30th June 2023. Net stage 3 as on 30th June 2024 closed at 0.84% as against 1.00% as on 30th June 2023.

· The Gross and Net NPA, as per RBI’s asset classification norms for NBFCs, are 2.21% and 1.41% respectively as against 2.96% and 2.00% as of 30th June 2023.

· Cost to income ratio closed at 32.90% in Q1FY25 as against 35.18% in Q1FY24.

· Profit after tax registered a 9% rise in Q1FY25, with net profit at Rs. 308 crores. The company had registered a net profit of Rs. 281 crores in Q1FY24.

· Return on assets (ROA) for Q1FY25 closed at 2.38% as against 2.68% for Q1FY24. Return on equity (ROE) was at 13.6% for Q1FY25 as against 14.3% for Q1FY24.

· Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 19.3% (Tier I –16.2%) as of 30th June 2024 compared to 21.4% (Tier I – 17.0%) as of 30th June 2023.

CONSOLIDATED PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR Q1FY25

The consolidated results of SFL include the results of its standalone subsidiaries Sundaram Home Finance, Sundaram Asset Management and joint venture company Royal Sundaram General Insurance.

· The assets under management (AUM) in our lending and general insurance businesses stood at Rs. 69,234 crores as on 30th June 2024 as against Rs. 57,150 crores as on 30th June 2023, a growth of 21%. The assets under management of our asset management business stood at Rs. 80,565 crores as on 30th June 2024 as against Rs. 59,862 crores as on 30th June 2023, a growth of 35%.

· Profit after tax for Q1FY25 grew by 16% to Rs. 435 crores as compared to Rs. 375 crores in Q1FY24.

GROUP COMPANY PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS

Our group companies continued to perform well.

· The asset management business closed the quarter ended 30th June 2024 with assets under management of Rs. 80,565 crores (over 85% in equity) and consolidated profits from the asset management businesses was at Rs. 29 crores as against Rs. 24 crores in Q1FY24.

· Royal Sundaram reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs. 1,114 crores as compared to Rs. 908 crores in the corresponding period of the previous year, representing a growth of 23%. The Company reported a profit after tax of Rs. 65 crores for Q1FY25 as against a profit of Rs. 95 crores in Q1FY24.

· Sundaram Home Finance continued to grow strongly with disbursements up by 24% to Rs.1,353 crores in Q1FY25. The profit for Q1FY25 was Rs. 66 crores, up by 16% as against Rs.57 crores in Q1FY24.

Bengaluru, August 7 2024: A sophisticated and well-equipped, Orane International School of Beauty and Wellness Centre for the well-being and beauty of women has come up at Raghuvanahalli on Kanakapura Road.

The Institute is well-equipped with well-trained professionals to enhance the beauty of Karnataka through different kinds of courses

Miss Universe – Karnataka Avani Kake Kochhi Bhat inaugurated this beauty Centre. This is the 120th Centre in Karnataka and third such Centre in Bangalore.

Orane International School of Beauty is having its presence in about 19 states in the country. The Institute is an acknowledged destination for make-up. This Institute has also adopted Skill India scheme and Orion has emerged as ace skill training centre at the global level.

Orane has opened two separate institutes in Canada exclusively for make-up. Even in Karnataka also, there are Diploma and PG courses in this field of make-up.

Speaking after inaugurating the Centre, Miss Universe Karnataka Avani Kake Kochhi Bhat said in ancient Indian tradition there are 64 disciplines that includes make-up and hairdressing.

“It is because of this reason we need to focus and put thrust on make-up.

Orion’s Bangalore Centre Manager Pranjal Kumar, in his speech, said the Centre is providing employment as well as skill training. “This Orion centre is most appropriate place for both jobs as well as learning,” he added.

Director of the Institute Sanjeev Kumar Sinha, in his speech said women must not be confined to kitchen but enter fashion field in order to earn as well as learn.

“Orion centre will create such an enabling atmosphere,” he added

Amit Kumar, Director and others were present.

Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, commemorated World Breastfeeding Week by organizing a special event celebrating World Breastfeeding Week. The event was organized to provide new and expecting mothers with valuable insights, support, and a sense of community as they navigate the breastfeeding journey.The event was hosted by Dr Pooja Mehta, Clinical Director- Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Dr Pallavi Vasal, Clinical Director – Obstetrics & Gynecology , and Dr Sanket Goyal, Neonatologist, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram.

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year in the first week of August. The week aims to highlight the importance of breastfeeding for an infant as well as the mother. Breast milk has all the important nutrients essential for a baby’s normal growth and for the prevention of several infections and diseases.

The event featured a range of activities both, educational and engaging. The event commenced with a panel discussion withleading healthcare professionals discussing the various aspects of breastfeeding, maternal health, and child nutrition. Attendees benefited from a special consultation with a dietitian, who offered tailored advice on optimizing their diet for breastfeeding, ensuring that both mother and child received the necessary nutrients.

Dr. Pallavi Vasal, Clinical Director-Obstetrics and Gynecology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram explainedthe significance of breastfeeding for both mother and child said “Breastfeeding is not only about providing nutrition to your baby; it is a profound bonding experience that has long-lasting health benefits for both mother and child. It strengthens the immune system, reduces the risk of certain infections, and is linked to better cognitive development in babies. For mothers, breastfeeding lowers the risk of certain cancers and helps in postpartum recovery. Events like these are crucial as they provide the necessary support and knowledge to empower mothers in their breastfeeding journey.”

Dr. Pooja Mehta, Clinical Director Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram highlightedthe critical role breastfeeding plays in a child’s early development said, “The first 1,000 days of a child’s life, beginning at conception, are critical for their long-term health and development. Breastfeeding plays a fundamental role during this period, offering essential nutrients perfectly suited to the baby’s needs. Additionally, it strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child, which is crucial for the child’s emotional and social growth. Our event was created to address any concerns mothers may have and to provide expert guidance in a supportive environment.”

Dr. Sanket Goyal, Sr. Consultant Neonatology Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram said, “Breastfeeding is nature’s way of ensuring that babies get the best possible start in life. Breast milk contains antibodies that help the baby fight off viruses and bacteria, lowering the risk of many infections. It also reduces the likelihood of the baby developing allergies and asthma and has been linked to higher IQ scores later in childhood. For mothers, breastfeeding assists in quicker recovery after childbirth and helps in achieving a healthy weight post-delivery. This event was an opportunity for us to educate and reassure mothers about the immense benefits of breastfeeding, as well as to provide them with the practical tools they need.”

In addition, expert lactation consultants were on hand to guide new mothers through the challenges of breastfeeding, providing practical tips and emotional support. The event also included a special consultation with a physiotherapist, who guidedpostpartum physical recovery, emphasizing exercises and routines beneficial to new mothers. A maternity studio shoot was also organized, allowing mothers to capture memorable moments with their babies. The day concluded with a relaxing meditation session aimed at helping mothers manage stress and improve their overall well-being during the postpartum period. The event wrapped up with a complimentary lunch, where participants connected with other expectant mothers and shared their experiences.

According to World Health Organization, breast milk is ideal for infants as it is clean, and contains antibodies that protect the baby from several common childhood diseases. Exclusive breastfeeding practices among Indian infants aged between 0 and 6 months. At 2 months of age, the proportion of infants exclusively breastfed was 66.7%. Research reveals that over the last decade, the percentage of infants (under 6 months of age) who were exclusively breastfed in India increased from 46.4 percent to 54.9 percent.

New Delhi, Aug 6: GM Arjun Erigaisi-led Team MGD1 banked on their all-Indian star cast to clinch the silver medal in the inaugural World Blitz Team Championships, a club-based event conceptualized by world chess governing body FIDE, in Astana, Kazakhstan.

In the final against Team WR Chess, Arjun, the highest rated Indian GM in Classic Ranking, upset former world champion and world no. 1 Magnus Carlsen on the top board in Round 1.

But the Norwegian’s teammates won on the other boards to give the team a comfortable lead. Team MGD1 put up a strong fight in the second round to hold the eventual champions 3:3 but that was not enough to take the match into play-off.

“Beating Magnus Carlson in any format is special and I really enjoyed playing against him. But more than that win, it’s the collective performance of the team that helped us with the silver medal was very special. The way we bonded and fought for each other makes this medal so special,” said Arjun.

The inaugural edition of the World Blitz Team Championships saw 40 teams compete in group-cum-knock out format in a one-day event that also carried a prize purse of 100,000 Euros. Each team had one female player and one amateur in their lineup.

Team MGD1, which also had GM Srinath Narayanan, SL Narayanan, B Adhiban, former world championships bronze medallist D Harika and amateur Mihir Shah in their squad, dominated Pool B by winning all their seven matches. In round 3, they demolished World Rapid Team Champions Al-Ain 4.5-1.5 to underline their claim for a podium finish and then lived up to the expectations in the knock-out stage.

“It’s a very proud moment for all of us that we have won a silver medal in the World Blitz Team Championships, beating some of the best players in the world. We at MGD1 are committed to the development of chess in India and that is one of the reasons we fielded an all-Indian line-up in Astana and the players rose to the occasion,” said MGD1 co-founder Sreekar Chennapragada.

The Indian outfit raced through the Round of 16 against Astana-2 and quarterfinals against Israel’s Ashdod Chess Club respectively to reach the last four stage.

MGD1 once again faced Al-Ain in the semifinals and were taken to a tie-breaker after both the rounds ended in a 3:3 draw. The Indians then raised the bar in the Play-off winning 5.5-0.5 to set up a summit clash against WR Chess.

Manipal, 6 August 2024: We are pleased to inform that the Department of ENT, Head and Neck Surgery at Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore is organizing “IAOHNS 2024, Mangalore” the 10th National Conference of the Indian Academy of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery from the 8th of August 2024 to 11th of August 2024 at Dr T M A Pai International Convention Centre, Mangalore.

Indian Academy of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (IAOHNS) is a non-profit organization founded in 2014 and it is a national-level Academy to address the scientific demands of surgeons interested in this field. The main aim and objective of IAOHNS are to act as a bridge between different societies, supporting and encouraging the worldwide exchange of clinical information and scientific research studies in the field of ENT and head and neck surgery. Dr. Mohan Kameswaran, a senior and eminent ENT surgeon from Chennai is the founder president and the chairman of this association. Under his able leadership, this national association is reaching a greater heights and recognition even at international platforms.

The theme for the conference, “OtoRhinoLaryngology towards Academic and Research Excellence – 2024” embodies a collective vision for a future where academic rigor, research innovation, and clinical excellence converge to improve patient care and advance the specialty. This theme is aligned with the MAHE theme for this year, “The Year of research excellence 2024”. Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, a senior ENT surgeon himself is the Organising Chairman for this conference. Under his guidance, Dr Deviprasad D, Professor & Head, department of ENT, KMC Mangalore, as organising secretary, with his team is conducting this conference. Dr Unnikrishnan B, Dean KMC, Mangalore is the mentor and guide for this team. It is also a special occasion for KMC, Mangalore as we are celebrating our Platinum Jubilee this year. So, hosting a national conference this year is the icing on the cake.

Dr. H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) will be the distinguished Chief Guest for the Inaugural Ceremony, scheduled on 9th August 2024, 7 PM onwards at Dr T M A Pai International Convention Centre, Mangalore.

The conference will be attended by around 400 delegates from across the country and abroad. It will feature over 150 prominent National and International guest speakers addressing the delegates in the form of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and hands-on cadaveric dissections. They will be covering the various sub-specialties of ENT such as Neuro-Otology, Facial Plastic/Reconstructive surgery, Implant Otology, Skull Base surgery, Head and Neck Oncology so on.

There are also lectures on Innovations, Simulation devices and AI in ENT. It will provide a platform for delegates to exchange knowledge, showcase successful projects, and foster collaborations that will contribute to the advancement and innovation in the field of ENT. It will also give the delegates an opportunity to discuss with the experts, various issues that they face in their day-to-day practice. This will in turn help the general population at large, as these ENT specialists will be able to provide a better care to their patients.

The participants not only get to enjoy the scientific feast over those three days, but also will taste the local cuisine and visit the local attractions – showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Tulunadu. Thus, the delegates can expect an immersive experience of science and culture and return with the cherishable memories of Namma Mangaluru.