21, Dec 2024
Crack Academy to organize the Government Job Fair in Patiala
Crack Academy, is set to host a Government Job Fair at Crack Academy Centre, Chhoti Baradari, Patiala on 22nd December from 10 AM onwards, bringing a golden opportunity for government job aspirants. The fair will feature renowned experts from Delhi who will provide valuable guidance, effective strategies, and actionable tips to help candidates prepare for government exams. This unique event aims to empower students and aspirants with the tools and insights they need to turn their dream of securing a government job into reality.
With limited seats available, participants are encouraged to register at the earliest, as this is a first-come, first-served opportunity for those eager to gain valuable insights. Students will get an opportunity to seek guidance from industry experts on the eligibility criteria for different government jobs and the best books and study materials to aid their preparation. Additionally, effective strategies to crack competitive exams will be shared, offering new direction and focus to the candidates. The primary aim of this fair is to provide proper guidance to aspirants and help them achieve their dream of landing a government job.
Speaking about the event, Neeraj Kansal, Founder and CEO, Crack Academy, stated, “This fair will provide clear guidance and direction to candidates preparing for government exams. It will offer actionable suggestions for excelling in various subjects and competitive exams. Aspirants aiming for government jobs should seize this opportunity to take their preparation to the next level.”
The fair promises to be a valuable opportunity for candidates to gain insights from experts, refine their preparation, and move closer to achieving their career goals.
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21, Dec 2024
Acsia Technologies Wins the CII Industry Academia Partnership Award 2024
Thiruvananthapuram, 21 December 2024: Acsia Technologies, a global leader in automotive software specialising in Digital Cockpits & Displays, e-Mobility, and Telematics, has been awarded the CII Industry Academia Partnership Award 2024 in the MSME sector (Diamond category). This recognition highlights Acsia’s exemplary efforts in fostering collaborations with academic institutions, bridging the gap between education and industry, and preparing students for real-world challenges in automotive software development.

The award ceremony, held in New Delhi as part of the CII Annual Summit on Technology, Intellectual Property, and Industry-Academia Partnerships, celebrated outstanding contributions by companies, academic, and research institutions fostering meaningful industry-academia synergies.
Reflecting on the recognition, Jijimon Chandran, Founder and CEO of Acsia Technologies, said: “This award validates our belief that collaboration is the cornerstone of innovation. Through programs like ‘Wheels of the Future’ and our mentorship initiatives, we strive to equip the next generation with the skills needed to lead tomorrow’s mobility revolution.”
Acsia congratulates all the winners across categories, including TVS Motors, Tata Motors, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, HCL Tech, Serum Institute of India, TCS, Mahindra and Mahindra, Uno Minda, IIT Madras, Hindustan Unilever Ltd and Biocon Biologics. Their contributions continue to advance industry-academia partnerships in India.
Acsia’s Industry-Academia Connect Initiatives
Acsia has been at the forefront of creating structured engagements that nurture young talent and foster innovation.
The “Wheels of the Future” Campus Lifecycle Program guides students through progressive stages of learning and industry exposure. It begins with expert talks during induction weeks to familiarise students with industry best practices, followed by self-learning modules and assessments to identify top performers for summer internships. Based on their performance, selected students are offered a month-long internship, culminating in a six-month academic project at Acsia. This hands-on experience provides students with opportunities to work on real-world proof-of-concept projects and opens pathways for potential hiring.
Through collaborative research, Acsia mentored the development of “Vandy”, an electric car designed by students at the Government Engineering College, Barton Hill, Thiruvananthapuram, which gained international recognition at the Shell Eco-Marathon 2022 in Indonesia. The project received awards for its battery thermal management system and AI-driven drowsiness detection system, reflecting the depth of innovation enabled by Acsia’s mentorship.
Acsia also supports academic projects and labs, including the installation of an AC-DC charger at Trinity College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram, offering practical exposure to EV infrastructure. Its long-term internship programs provide six months of mentored, hands-on training in real-world automotive software development.
To strengthen technical expertise, Acsia delivers specialised training programs in AUTOSAR at Trinity College of Engineering and RUST/C++ at Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, ensuring students acquire industry-relevant skills.
The organisation has also facilitated mentorship programs with industry veterans such as Mr. Stefan Juraschek, Strategic Advisor at Acsia and a key figure behind BMW’s electric vehicle innovations. Stefan’s interactions with students at the College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram (CET) and Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, offered invaluable insights into electric vehicles, software-defined vehicles (SDV), and the future of mobility.
Acsia’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is evident through its exclusive placement drive for differently abled engineering students, conducted in collaboration with Kerala’s APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) on 24th January 2023 at the Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram. This initiative empowered final-year students across Kerala with career opportunities in engineering. Through initiatives such as collaborative research, hands-on workshops, and structured training programs, Acsia enables students to gain practical experience, bridging the gap between academia and industry and creating a skilled, future-ready workforce.
21, Dec 2024
Men’s Health Matters: 1 in 8 Men at Risk for Prostate Cancer — Is Early Detection the Solution

By-Dr. Ajay Mehta, Director & Chief of Surgical oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Nagpur
Prostate cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges faced by men worldwide. As the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in men, it affects an estimated 1 in 8 during their lifetime. Despite this, the disease often progresses quietly in its early stages, with few or no symptoms, which underscores the vital role of regular health check-ups and awareness. Proactive screening and education about risk factors have been proven to dramatically improve treatment success, making early detection a cornerstone in the fight against this condition. Advances in medical science continue to shed light on effective diagnostic and therapeutic measures, offering hope for men and their families.
What Is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder, responsible for producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate cancer begins when cells within the gland start multiplying uncontrollably. While many cases develop slowly and remain localized, others can progress aggressively, posing a serious threat to health.
Early Warning Signs May Include:
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• A weak or irregular urine stream
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Discomfort or pain in the pelvis or lower back
Many men, however, do not experience these symptoms during the early stages, making routine prostate cancer screenings a critical tool for detection.
The Importance of Early Detection
Catching prostate cancer in its initial stages can be life-saving. Early-stage prostate cancer is often confined to the gland and responds well to treatment, whether through surgery, radiation therapy, or active surveillance. Early intervention not only increases the chances of successful outcomes but also allows for a broader range of less invasive treatment options.
How Is Prostate Cancer Screened?
Screening typically involves two primary methods:
1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This blood test measures PSA levels, which may rise due to prostate cancer or other conditions like infections or benign enlargement.
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam where a healthcare provider checks the prostate for any unusual lumps or abnormalities.
Men over 50—or earlier for those with a family history or higher-risk demographics—are encouraged to discuss these screening options with their doctor to determine what’s appropriate for them.
Risk Factors You Should Know
• Age: Risk escalates after 50
• Family History: Having a predisposed family history of prostate cancer doubles the likelihood of diagnosis
• Lifestyle Choices: Diets high in red and processed meats, obesity, and lack of exercise may elevate risk levels
Steps Toward Prevention and Wellness
While some risk factors, such as genetics or age, cannot be changed, a proactive lifestyle can help reduce the likelihood of prostate cancer.
1. Healthy Diet: A nutrient-rich diet emphasizing vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and foods like tomatoes (for lycopene) or fatty fish (rich in omega-3s) supports prostate health.
2. Stay Active: Regular physical activity lowers inflammation and helps maintain a healthy weight, both of which reduce cancer risks.
3. Prioritize Screenings: Integrating prostate checks into annual health exams allows for early identification and timely care.
Changing the Approach to Men’s Health
Cultural stigma and hesitation often prevent men from addressing health concerns early. Initiatives that normalize conversations around prostate health—through awareness campaigns, support groups, and family dialogues—can drive positive change.
Promoting openness not only empowers men to prioritize their well-being but also encourages a preventive mindset, reducing the emotional and physical toll of advanced cancer diagnoses.
21, Dec 2024
The Rise of Indian HNIs and UHNIs in 2024

Dr. Prashant Thakur, Regional Director & Head – Research, ANAROCK Group
India is witnessing a transformative era of wealth creation. From bustling metros to emerging Tier-II cities, the nation’s affluent population is expanding at a pace that is capturing global attention. A dynamic mix of young entrepreneurs, tech pioneers, and seasoned industrialists drives this change.
The rise of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs, or people with investable assets of at least $1 million) and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs, or those with assets worth above $30 million) in 2024 paints a fascinating picture of opportunity, influence, and ambition.
Wealth Growth and Global Standing
India’s wealthy denizens not just growing in number but also global significance.
- Global ranking: India ranks 6th globally in UHNI population and 3rd in Asia, trailing only China and Japan.
- Population surge: The country’s UHNI count reached 13,600 in 2024, marking a 6% annual growth. This population is projected to soar by 50% by 2028, far outpacing the global growth average of 30%.
- HNIs on the rise: India is home to over 850,000 HNIs, and this is projected to double to 1.65 million by 2027.
nterestingly, 20% of these millionaires are under 40, signalling the growing influence of young wealth creators.
Where the Wealth Comes From
The engines of wealth creation in India are diverse, spanning traditional industries and emerging sectors:
- Tech and start-ups: Nearly 30% of new HNIs owe their fortunes to technology, fintech, and start-ups.
- Manufacturing: The ‘Make-in-India’ push has fuelled industrial wealth, contributing 21% to the UHNI economy.
- Real estate: Contributing 15%, luxury and commercial real estate have been key drivers, with urbanization and premium developments leading the charge.
- Equity: The Indian stock markets caused wealth from equities to grow by 18% year-on-year, further enriching India’s affluent.
Real Estate and Second Homes
Real estate continues to be a cornerstone of wealth allocation for Indian HNIs and UHNIs:
- Luxury homes dominate: The share of luxury homes in total sales surged to 28% in 2024, up from 16% pre-pandemic. High-end properties in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru are top picks, with Goa, Alibaug, and Jaipur emerging as favoured second-home destinations.
- International investments: Approximately 14% of UHNIs own properties abroad, with Dubai, London, and Singapore as the primary hotspots. The average international property investment exceeded INR 12 crore ($1.44 million) in 2024.
- Green buildings: With a growing focus on sustainability, ESG-compliant real estate has captured the interest of affluent buyers.
Spending Patterns: Luxury and Beyond
India’s affluent are shaping trends in luxury consumption:
- Luxury cars: More than 37% of Indian HNIs purchased a high-end vehicle in 2024, driving record sales for brands like Lamborghini, Porsche, and Rolls Royce.
- Travel and experiences: UHNIs spend an average of INR 6 crore ($720,000) annually on bespoke vacations, luxury cruises, and curated experiences.
- Jewellery and art: India is the 5th largest market for luxury watches and bespoke jewellery, with a surge in demand for pieces from Cartier, Patek Philippe, and Indian heritage brands.
Investment Preferences: Diversifying for the Future
The investment landscape for India’s wealthy reflects a strategic shift:
Portfolio Composition:
- 32% of wealth is allocated to real estate.
- 20% flows into private equity and start-ups, focusing on AI, blockchain, and cleantech.
- 8% of UHNIs have invested in cryptocurrencies, despite regulatory uncertainty.
Also, nearly 25% of Indian UHNIs are diversifying abroad, prioritizing assets in North America and Europe. Over 40% of UHNIs have established family offices to manage wealth, succession planning, and philanthropy.
Emerging Trends: What’s Shaping the Future?
Millennial Wealth Creators – Over 15% of India’s HNIs are under 30, driven by start-up unicorns, IPOs, and tech-driven ventures. This number is expected to rise to 25% by 2030, as younger entrepreneurs redefine wealth creation.
Alternate Citizenship and Global Mobility – About 10% of UHNIs secured alternate citizenships in 2024, favouring Portugal, Malta, and the UAE for their global mobility and tax benefits.
Health and Wellness Investments – Wellness-focused real estate, customized healthcare, and anti-ageing solutions have emerged as significant spending categories. High-net-worth families are also increasingly investing in preventive healthcare and luxury wellness retreats.
India’s Global Influence and Future Outlook
India’s wealthy are now prominent players on the global stage:
- Comparison with China: While India’s UHNI population grew by 6% in 2024, China’s grew by just 2%, signalling India’s rising economic prominence.
- Philanthropy on the rise: Indian UHNIs donated over INR 60,000 crore ($7.2 billion) in 2024, prioritizing education, healthcare, and sustainability.
- Reshaping the luxury market: As India’s luxury goods market grew by 12% in 2024, global brands are tailoring their offerings for Indian tastes, from bespoke couture to experiential services.
The Rich Subtext
India’s high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals are not just symbols of wealth but also catalysts for economic transformation. From driving the luxury market to fuelling philanthropic ventures and innovative investments, they embody the aspirations of a nation on the rise.
With younger wealth creators, a booming tech sector, and increasing global influence, India’s journey toward wealth dominance is just beginning.
21, Dec 2024
Government of Goa launches key Digital and Tourism initiatives
Mumbai, December 20, 2024: Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant and Hon’ble Minister for Tourism; Information Technology Electronics & Communications; Printing & Stationery, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, launched a series of transformative digital and tourism initiatives today at a ceremony held at Mantralaya, Porvorim. These initiatives, by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications and the Department of Tourism, mark a significant step towards enhancing digital infrastructure and strengthening Goa’s position as a progressive tourism destination.
The newly launched initiatives include the rollout of Free Public WiFi Hotspots at 75 locations, ensuring seamless digital connectivity for residents across the state. Additionally, the installation of 11 4G BSNL towers will significantly enhance mobile network coverage, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening communication infrastructure. The introduction of the Let’s Goa platform offers an innovative and user-friendly solution for tourists to explore Goa effortlessly. Furthermore, the launch of One Map Goa GIS (Geographic Information System) portal, will facilitate efficient spatial planning, infrastructure development, and governance in the state.

The launch was attended by esteem dignitaries including Chief Secretary, Dr. V Candavelou, IAS; Director of Tourism and Managing Director of GTDC Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS; Shri Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director for IT; Officer on Special Duty for Minister (IT) Neville Noronha, Officer on Special Duty for Minister (Tourism) Shri Shawn Mendes; Smt. Revati Kumar, MD of Goa Electronic Limited (GEL); Shri Sanjay Kumar Chaudhari Deputy Director General, Department of Telecom; Shri L. B. Lal General Manager of BSNL along with senior officials and dignitaries.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant emphasized the importance of these initiatives in driving digital inclusion, promoting smart governance, and creating a modern tourism ecosystem. He stated, “Guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Digital India vision, Goa is moving confidently into the future with Digital Goa. With this launch, Goa is taking a significant step forward in the Digital Kranti. This bold initiative is about leveraging technology to empower every citizen and unlock new opportunities. From free WiFi hotspots, particularly benefiting students, and 4G towers ensuring seamless connectivity across the state, to the GIS Portal transforming governance and the Let’s Goa platform boosting tourism and local businesses, we are building a digitally inclusive and innovative Goa.”
Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte while outlining the significance of the four initiatives, stated, “We are delivering on our promises to the people of Goa by empowering every Goan through the transformative potential of connectivity, innovation, and opportunity. To achieve Atmanirbhar Bharat, digitalization and connectivity, driven by WiFi hotspots and 4G towers, play a crucial role in bridging gaps and fostering progress. The GIS Portal represents a revolutionary leap toward e-Governance, providing seamless access to geospatial data and enhancing transparency and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Let’s Goa tourism experience platform serves as a comprehensive guide to Goa’s services, integrating tourism, technology, and local businesses. Together, these initiatives are shaping a future where every Goan can thrive, setting benchmarks for growth, inclusivity, and sustainability that resonate across India.”
Director Tourism while talking about the Let’s Goa portal highlighted, Lets Goa is more than is a transformative leap for Goa’s tourism industry. Connecting local service providers, tourists, and officials, it promotes innovation, growth, and excellence. With 100+ hotels, 50+ activity providers, and GTDC residencies onboard, the platform streamlines bookings, inventory management, and showcases Goa’s heritage and culture. Let’s Goa empowers local businesses while advancing wellness, adventure, and hinterland tourism under visionary leadership.
21, Dec 2024
Airtel and Zee5 partner to bring exciting Zee5 content to Airtel WiFi customers
Bangalore (India), December 21, 2024: Bharti Airtel (“Airtel”), one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers, today announced that it has entered into a partnership with Zee5, India’s leading OTT platform to offer exciting digital content to its WiFi customers. All customers on plans starting at Rs. 699 or higher will have Zee5 included as part of their Airtel WiFi plan at no additional cost.
Following this partnership, Zee5’s exclusive content, that includes original shows, chartbuster titles, OTT movies and series across multiple languages will now be available on Airtel WiFi for viewers, giving them access to an exhaustive catalogue of digital content. From popular titles like Sam Bahadur, RRR, Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, Manorathangal, Vikkatakavi, The Chronicles of Amaragiri, AindhamVedham, Gyaarah Gyaarah amongst many others, Airtel WiFi customers can now enjoy a vast repository of 1.5 lakh+ hours of content.
Amit Tripathi, Chief Marketing Officer & EVP Customer Experience – Bharti Airtel said, “Partnerships are at the core of Airtel’s DNA and we are delighted to partner with Zee5 in our endeavor to build a world-class digital content ecosystem. Zee5’s rich library adds a lot of depth to our content portfolio, enhancing the overall experience for our users. We remain committed to building our content portfolio with a single agenda of delighting our customers with the very best”.
Manish Kalra, Chief Business Officer, ZEE5 stated, “At ZEE5, it has been our endeavor to democratize access to high-quality entertainment by making our diverse content library available to a larger audience. The collaboration with Airtel strengthens our commitment to offering viewers a seamless entertainment experience across genres, languages, and formats. With integration of ZEE5 for Airtel Broadband users, we aim to cater to a wide audience base, ensuring engaging, personalized storytelling for every user.”
Airtel Wi-Fi Plans
| Plans | Speed | Linear TV Benefits | OTT Benefits |
| ₹699 | Up to 40 Mbps | 350+ TV channels (HD included) | Zee5, Disney+ Hotstar, 22+ OTTs & much more |
| ₹899 | Up to 100 Mbps | 350+ TV channels (HD included) | Zee5, Disney+ Hotstar, 22+ OTTs & much more |
| ₹1099 | Up to 200 Mbps | 350+ TV channels (HD included) | Zee5, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, 22+ OTTs & much more |
| ₹1599 | Up to 300 Mbps | 350+ TV channels (HD included) | Zee5, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, 22+ OTTs & much more |
| ₹3999 | Up to 1 Gbps | 350+ TV channels (HD included) | Zee5, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, 22+ OTTs & much more |
Airtel WiFi customers can claim the free offer via the Airtel Thanks app.
This partnership further enhances Airtel’s impressive WiFi + TV offering, which boasts of over 350 HD channels and grants customers access to Airtel Xstream Play – a comprehensive platform that aggregates content from 23 popular OTT services including SonyLiv, ErosNow, SunNxt, AHA, and many more.
With the addition of ZEE5 to the existing offerings like Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Hotstar, Airtel WiFi customers now have an unrivaled wealth of entertainment options on their fingertips, cementing Airtel’s position as a frontrunner in providing a holistic and enriching digital lifestyle experience to its subscribers.
20, Dec 2024
Bites Partners with Unilever Food Solutions to Drive Frontline Engagement, Introducing Bites 2.0 for Enhanced Workforce Connectivity
December 20, 2024, Tel Aviv, Israel — Bites, a leader in AI-powered knowledge-sharing solutions, announced its collaboration with Unilever Food Solutions to enhance real-time communication and streamline knowledge distribution for frontline teams. Using Bites’ innovative, integrated platform, Unilever FS has created a professional communication and training layer on top of familiar channels such as SMS, WhatsApp, and MS Teams, enabling seamless and efficient connections with its distributed workforce. This partnership also introduces Bites’ latest offering, Bites 2.0, which modernizes workforce communication through a more intuitive approach to engaging frontline employees.
Unilever Food Solutions, a leading food service provider, previously faced challenges in effectively reaching and engaging its frontline teams. Traditional systems with complex logins and unappealing content formats resulted in limited adoption. “We previously used another solution that provided low engagement rates and an outdated user experience among our frontline employees,” shared Doron Zilberstein, Managing Director at Unilever Food Solutions. “Since implementing Bites, our engagement rates have soared to over 90%. This transformation has not only improved internal communication but has also positively impacted our sales performance.”
Unlike conventional platforms, Bites integrates directly with existing communication tools, allowing companies to connect with employees without requiring additional applications. Its AI-powered tools enable the creation and sharing of engaging, bite-sized knowledge units within employees’ everyday communication channels, making knowledge-sharing effortless and accessible as part of their routine.
“Some things just don’t make sense anymore,” stated Tal Nagler Almog, Co-founder and COO at Bites. “Expecting frontline employees to interact with outdated systems simply doesn’t align with how they operate today. Our partnership with Unilever underscores the need for a more intuitive approach, and with Bites 2.0, we’re delivering a comprehensive platform for effective knowledge sharing and workforce empowerment.”
Following its successful $10 million extended seed funding round, Bites has evolved into a holistic, AI-powered platform. Bites 2.0 allows organizations to effortlessly transform outdated materials—such as lengthy PDFs and presentations—into dynamic, TikTok-style videos that employees can access instantly without disrupting their workflow. By streamlining knowledge distribution, Bites enables employees to bring new products and processes to market faster. With custom workflows, Bites 2.0 also supports onboarding, skill development, and compliance by providing tailored knowledge at the right time, enhancing both engagement and career progression.
Additionally, the platform’s AI-driven knowledge feed allows employees to search for information in real-time using natural language, embedding knowledge acquisition seamlessly into their daily tasks. Insights into employee engagement enable organizations to tie knowledge-sharing efforts directly to measurable performance metrics such as sales growth and compliance improvements. By reducing training costs and facilitating direct knowledge distribution, Bites creates significant operational efficiencies for businesses.
Bites has already partnered with major industry leaders, including Amazon, Red Bull, and Decathlon, who leverage its advanced AI capabilities to improve workforce engagement and real-time communication. These collaborations highlight Bites’ position as a transformative solution for today’s dynamic workforce, underscoring its value as an essential tool for modern knowledge-sharing.
With the launch of Bites 2.0 and its growing success, Bites is setting new benchmarks for workforce communication and knowledge distribution, positioning itself as an indispensable solution for organizations aiming to enhance frontline engagement and optimize operations worldwide.
20, Dec 2024
IIM Raipur Hosts IFC 2024: Engaging Finance Pioneers Across Globe
Mumbai, 20th December 2024: Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, a leading institution recognized for #BuildingBusinessOwners, is proud to host the India Finance Conference (IFC) 2024 jointly organized by the IIM Calcutta, IIM Bangalore and IIM Ahmedabad. Scheduled from December 19 to December 21, 2024, the conference has brought together experts and thought finance leaders to foster insightful discussions and knowledge exchange.

The first day of conference was graced by chief guest Akshay Sahni, Ex. Managing Director, Head of APAC Cash Equities & ECM Trading & Co-Head of Equity Derivatives Trading, Goldman Sachs, Hong Kong and Keynote speaker Professor Yakov Amihud, Ira Rennert Professor of Entrepreneurial Finance at the Stern School of Business, New York University.
Welcoming all the distinguished participants, Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director, IIM Raipur, said, “The presence of distinguished leaders and visionaries represents the significance of IFC 2024 for IIM Raipur as we continue to foster discussions and knowledge sharing that inspires future finance leaders. The world of finance continues to evolve, exploring diverse dimensions. Today, we navigate both contemporary topics and emerging trends shaping the future of the industry.” Sharing his knowledge on the topic he further added, “The maximum amount of development that has happened is during the decades of 1950 to 2000s wherein we had the Black Scholes, CAPM and the existing liquidity measures. When it comes to things related to time as a dimension, size as a dimension, governance as a dimension, ownership of firms as a dimension, we believe there is lot of scope to contribute, and new instruments come can come and conceptual finance can in some sense adapt itself.”
Addressing the gathering, the chief guest Sahni shared, “We should be grateful to all our teachers and professors, it’s not always the classroom but, what we learn from them that always stays with us for the rest of our lives. The biggest carnages come from the biggest leverage positions; this is what causes ruin. If you can prepare for that and look out for signs, it’s always a good advice in the world of investing and finance. Trading and capital markets, no matter how much analysis you do, is always a game of probabilities and you can never be certain about the outcome.” He also advised the students that, “There is no point trying to meddle around with a small indecisive position with less conviction. Do your homework and when you see an opportunity, you really got to go for it”.
Prior to the main event, IIM Raipur also hosted pre-conference tutorials on 18th December 2024. The tutorials were centred on insightful topics including Experimental Research in Finance: The Way Forward, Managing high-frequency data, Research issues in Real Estate, and A case study on the impact of Finance analytics.
Featuring two plenary sessions, the conference covers absorbing topics including “Corporate resiliency and the choice between financial and operational hedging” and “A Nudge to Female Home Ownership and Mortgage Market Outcomes”. In addition, the gathering will also engage in five concurrent brainstorming sessions, each divided in various tasks and presided over by dignitaries from various prestigious institutions from around the world.
Highlight of this colloquium, are the three intriguing industry panel sessions, with experts from various domains. Panel Discussion1 was held on “Climate Finance.” Session 2 & 3 to be held on 20th-21st December 2024, will revolve around “Impact of Regulatory Changes on Indian Financial Markets” and “Role of fintech, digital finance, and AI in Transforming Indian Banking and Financial Landscape” respectively.
The three-day event also features an Indian Finance Association annual meeting, a dazzling gala dinner, and an enchanting cultural evening, offering attendees a perfect blend of intellectual engagement and memorable entertainment.
The conference is being organized in collaboration with Motilal Oswal and participated by NSE, BlackRock, Fractal, MCX, RelantoAI and CareerTopper.
20, Dec 2024
Early Career Academics Colloquium 2024: MDI Gurgaon Explores Sustainable Solutions for Business and Society
India 20th December, 2024: Management Development Institute (MDI) Gurgaon, in collaboration with The Teaching Learning Centre (TLC) and the Indian Academy of Management (INDAM), successfully inaugurated their highly anticipated Doctoral and Early Career Academics (ECA) Colloquium & Conference on December 19, 2024. The theme of the event was “Sustainability in Emerging Economies: Integrating Business Excellence in Management Education.” This invited scholars, researchers, and educators nationwide to seek innovative approaches for embedding sustainability in management education. With 140 registrations, the conference demonstrated high interest and engagement with participation from high reputed Institutes/Universities like IIT Delhi, IIT Roorkee, IIFT, IIM Indore, IIM Lucknow, IIT Patna, MDI Gurgaon, University of Auckland (Australia), University of Leeds (England), BITS Pilani (Dubai), Skyline University College (Sharjah), École des Dirigeants et des Créateurs d’entreprise (Paris), Universidad de Los Andes (Colombia), Durham University (England), Wrexham University (England), GE Energy (Vernova), XLRI (Jamshedpur).
The first day of the Doctoral and Early Career Academics (ECA) Colloquium & Conference commenced with a warm welcome and registration as participants from across India and beyond gathered at the Athena Banquet Hall, The Pllazio Hotel. The ceremonial lamp lighting marked the official inauguration of the event, followed by inspiring speeches from distinguished dignitaries, including Prof. Arvind Sahay, Director, MDI Gurgaon; Prof. Sumit Kundu, President-INDAM and Professor of International Business, Florida International University; Prof. Pawan S. Budhwar, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor, Aston University, UK; and Prof. Jyotsna Bhatnagar, Dean Research, MDI Gurgaon.
During his keynote address, Prof. Arvind Sahay, Director of MDI Gurgaon, emphasised the importance of impactful research. He remarked, “Prioritise your passion in research while ensuring its relevance and impact, particularly regarding sustainability in emerging economies, where enhancing quality of life must accompany environmental initiatives. Engage with practitioners and communities to address real-world challenges effectively.”
Prof. Sumit Kundu, president of INDAM and Professor of International Business at Florida International University, emphasised the need for innovative research and teaching in global strategy. He said, “To address today’s challenges, we must adopt proactive methods in research and teaching, focusing on creating market leaders. Equally important is prioritising students’ mental wellness, a global concern transcending regions from Asia to Latin America. Integrating climate change and evolving business models into our strategies is critical as we navigate these complexities.”
Prof. Pawan S. Budhwar, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor, Aston University, UK, urged doctoral students to pursue meaningful research, saying, “Your PhD years are a chance to address significant global challenges like sustainability. Go beyond short-term goals and embrace interdisciplinary collaboration to create real impact. Environmental issues demand urgent attention, and researchers in India are uniquely positioned to lead solutions.”
Prof. Jyotsna Bhatnagar, Dean of Research, MDI Gurgaon, highlighted the importance of involving early-career academics in sustainability. She said, “Involving young researchers in the sustainability dialogue is essential, particularly in emerging economies where the effects of climate change are deeply felt. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and diverse perspectives, we can create well-rounded strategies to tackle the urgent challenges of sustainability effectively.”
The morning progressed with an expert panel discussion on the theme, “Sustainability—SDG Goals: Discoveries and Challenges—Way Forward.” Moderated by Prof. Prajapati Trivedi, Commonwealth Secretary General’s Special Envoy for SDG Implementation and Distinguished Professor at MDI Gurgaon, the panel featured eminent speakers such as Ms. Shubhi Kesarwani, CEO, Gurujal and Mr. Ankit Agarwal, Founder-CEO, Phool.co. The discussion explored innovative strategies for implementing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in governance, business, and education.
Prof. Prajapati Trivedi emphasised the importance of aligning research with real-world impact. He stated, “A good idea attracts financial backing, as funding reflects its relevance and potential for implementation. Researchers should focus on areas with market demand and financial support rather than pursuing academic interests without practical applications.”
A key highlight of the day was the Interactive CESIM Simulation Workshop, moderated by Prof. Ritu Srivastava, Faculty Member, MDI Gurgaon, along with Rohan Jugran, Head of Customer Success, CESIM, and Abdul Baji, Growth & Product Head, CESIM. This engaging session provided participants with hands-on experience in fostering critical thinking and practical application of sustainability principles through advanced learning simulations, offering valuable insights into achieving excellence in classroom instruction.
Speaking at the Industry Panel on Risk Management and Sustainability, Mr. Mayank Bansal, Senior Investment Professional (IFC), Mr. Sunder Krishnan (Ex-CRO, LIC), and Mr. Baran Guntupalli (CRO & Head of Risk, NaBFID), moderated by Prof. Ruchi Agarwal, Faculty Member, MDI Gurgaon emphasised the strategic importance of integrating sustainability into risk management frameworks. They noted, “In today’s uncertain world, aligning risk management with sustainability is vital for building resilient and future-ready organisations.”
In the Master Class on Case Methods for Active Learning, Prof. David Wood, Professor & Executive Director, Ivey Publishing, Ivey School of Business, Canada highlighted the power of experiential learning. “The case method equips participants with critical thinking and decision-making skills to address real-world challenges, particularly in dynamic sectors like banking and finance,” he stated, underscoring its role in shaping adaptive and innovative leaders.
Participants enjoyed networking and engagement opportunities during tea breaks and a networking lunch, facilitating meaningful interactions and collaboration. The afternoon was dedicated to conference paper presentations, where scholars and early-career academics showcased their research across parallel tracks. Key topics included green finance, sustainability-driven digital transformation, and the intersection of technology and sustainability, providing fresh perspectives on advancing sustainable practices in business and academia.
20, Dec 2024
Sightsavers India partners for Jeevan Jyoti Project to Bring Eye Care to Alwar’s Rural Communities
Alwar, Rajasthan, 20 December 2024: District Medical and Health Department, Alwar, Rajasthan Metso Outotec India Private Limited and Sightsavers India have come together to launch the ‘Jeevan Jyoti’ project, aimed at reducing avoidable blindness in Alwar District, Rajasthan. This initiative, implemented under Sightsavers India’s Rural Eye Health Programme, is supported by Metso’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and in partnership with the Government of Rajasthan. The formalization of this partnership was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a ceremony in Alwar, outlining the shared commitment to improving local healthcare infrastructure.
This tripartite agreement represents a significant step towards improving eye health services for the underserved communities of Alwar. The event was attended by key dignitaries from the government including Dr Artika Shukla, the District Collector of Alwar district, Dr Yogendra Sharma, the Chief Medical & Health Officer, of Alwar district and Dr Sunil Chauhan, Principle Medical Officer of the District Hospital of Alwar. From Metso Outotec India Private Limited, Mr Sunil Maheshwari, Managing Director and Mr Somesh Parasar, CSR Administrator, Mr Prasannakumar, Senior Director Programmes, Sightsavers India, Ms Tushita Mukherjee, Senior Project Officer, Rajasthan, Sightsavers India were present at the signing event

Mr Sunil Maheshwari, AMD, Metso Outotec India Private Limited, shared his enthusiasm for the project, noting: “Metso is proud to support ‘Jeevan Jyoti Project’ as part of the CSR Initiative to make a meaningful impact in the communities where we operate. The opportunity to partner with Sightsavers India and the Government of Rajasthan allows us to contribute to a cause that directly improves people’s quality of life. We believe that this project will bring sustainable eye care solutions to the people of Alwar, helping to eliminate avoidable blindness and strengthen local health infrastructure.”
The ‘Jeevan Jyoti’ initiative will focus on decentralizing eye care by upgrading two vision centres in CHCs located in Laxmangarh and Ramgarh blocks. These centres will be equipped with essential tools and staffed by trained optometrists to ensure local access to screenings, cataract diagnoses, and referrals for surgeries. Door-to-door screenings will be conducted to identify cataract cases early and ensure timely intervention, with support from Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and Community Health Workers. A health counselling desk has also been established to guide cataract patients through pre-and post-surgery care.
Dr Yogendra Kumar Sharma, Chief Medical and Health Officer, Alwar added: “We are delighted to partner with Sightsavers India and Metso in this vital initiative. The ‘Jeevan Jyoti’ project reflects our shared vision of improving access to healthcare services in rural areas, especially for the underprivileged. By upgrading vision centres and conducting door-to-door screenings, this project will ensure that timely and quality eye care is available to everyone in the district. The government is fully committed to supporting this collaboration for the well-being of our communities.”
RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, emphasized the importance of the collaboration, saying:
“The launch of ‘Jeevan Jyoti’ represents our commitment to transforming the eye care landscape in Alwar. By working closely with Metso and the District Medical and Health Department of Alwar, we can bring essential eye care services directly to communities that have limited access. This initiative is about building lasting trust in public health systems and
empowering local communities to prioritize eye health. We are proud to play a role in improving lives and building sustainable healthcare infrastructure in the region.”
The project also emphasizes community engagement by training members of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) on eye health. This will raise awareness at the grassroots level and encourage community involvement in the initiative. The ‘Jeevan Jyoti’ project is set to have a transformative impact on the eye health landscape in Alwar District. With strong partnerships in place, the project is poised to create lasting improvements in the region’s eye care infrastructure and health outcomes.