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KIIT World School Hosts Prestigious World School Summit 2024

Gurugram: KIIT World School has organized the World School Summit 2024 (Robochamps) on December 17. This summit has brought educational leaders to discuss the future of education. The chief guest and resource person was Mr. Akshaya Ahuja. During his visit, he toured the school campus and commended the school’s efforts in providing diverse resources to students while fostering strong cultural values.

The purpose of the summit was to tackle the problems that the Indian education system is facing and identify effective solutions. The focus areas were on issues related to meeting the diverse learning needs of students, incorporating modern technologies into education, the balancing act between traditional and modern teaching methods, and how teacher training programs could be made better.

The event saw the participation of principals from 20 schools of Gurugram, who participated in meaningful discussions aimed at improving the quality of education. These deliberations gave educators a platform for sharing their insights, discussing new ideas, and devising workable strategies to improve the educational landscape of India. The summit also complemented the goals of New Education Policy (NEP 2020), ensuring that it was implemented correctly.

Dr. Neelima Kamrah, Principal of KIIT World School, played a pivotal role in organizing the summit and ensuring its success. Speaking about the event, she said, “Our aim is not just to deliver quality education but also to instill strong moral and cultural values in our students. Events like these provide an excellent platform for educational leaders to come together, exchange ideas, and work collaboratively towards improving the education system.”

The summit highlighted KIIT World School’s commitment to excellence in education and cultural enrichment. The appreciation from Mr. Akshaya Ahuja further encouraged the school to continue its efforts toward holistic development and innovation in education.

Understanding Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Life-Threatening Disease That Stiffens the Lungs

By-Author: Dr. Pavan Yadav, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology & Lung Transplantation, Aster RV Hospital

Imagine your lungs are like balloons, helping you breathe in oxygen and release carbon dioxide. Now, imagine if these balloons became stiff and couldn’t expand properly. That’s what happens in a condition called Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF).

What is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis?

IPF is a serious disease that causes scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs. Over time, this scarring makes the lungs stiff and less efficient at supplying oxygen to the body. The word “idiopathic” means we don’t know exactly what causes it, and “fibrosis” refers to the scarring itself.

Who Gets IPF?

IPF mostly affects people over 50 years old and is slightly more common in men than women. While it’s rare in young people, anyone can develop it.

What Causes IPF?

The frustrating part about IPF is that doctors often don’t know the exact cause. However, in some cases, it could be linked to:

• Genetics: Mutations in certain genes.

• Environmental factors: Long-term exposure to toxins.

• Injuries to the lung: Repeated small injuries that heal abnormally, causing scarring.

Symptoms to Watch For

The symptoms of IPF often develop slowly, and people might mistake them for signs of aging or other lung problems:

1. Shortness of Breath: Feeling out of breath, even during simple activities like walking or climbing stairs.

2. Chronic Dry Cough: A persistent cough that doesn’t go away.

3. Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired, even after resting.

4. Chest Discomfort: A feeling of tightness in the chest.

5. Clubbing: The tips of the fingers may become rounder and wider.

Is IPF Life-Threatening?

Yes, IPF is a serious and progressive disease. Over time, the scarring worsens, and the lungs struggle to deliver enough oxygen to the body. This can lead to complications like respiratory failure, heart problems, or lung infections. Unfortunately, without treatment, IPF can be life-threatening, with most patients living 3-5 years after diagnosis.

Can Early Diagnosis Help?

Absolutely! Early diagnosis is key to managing IPF. While it cannot prevent the disease, catching it early allows doctors to:

1. Start treatments to slow the progression of lung scarring.

2. Improve the patient’s quality of life through oxygen therapy, exercise, and medications.

3. Plan for advanced care options like lung transplantation.

Is There a Permanent Cure?

Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for IPF. Once scarring occurs in the lungs, it cannot be reversed. However, there are treatments that can slow down the disease, reduce symptoms, and help patients live longer, healthier lives.

How is IPF Treated?

1. Medications:

• Drugs like pirfenidone and nintedanib can slow lung scarring. These are game-changers in IPF treatment and are widely prescribed today.

2. Oxygen Therapy:

For patients with low oxygen levels, supplemental oxygen can help them breathe easier and feel less tired.

3. Pulmonary Rehabilitation:

This involves supervised exercise programs and education to improve lung function and overall well-being.

4. Lung Transplant:

For those with progressive disease in advanced stages, a lung transplant can be a life-saving option.

A Final Word

While IPF is a challenging disease, hope is not lost. Early diagnosis, timely treatment, and lifestyle changes can make a big difference. If you or someone you know has unexplained shortness of breath or a persistent cough, don’t ignore it—visit a doctor. Remember, the sooner you act, the better your chances of managing the disease effectively.

Just like a balloon needs to be flexible to work properly, our lungs need to stay healthy to keep us alive and active. Let’s not take them for granted!

Glance Integrates upGrad’s Intern-Zip Program into Smart Lock Screens as Part of Glance for Good Initiative

India, 18 December 2024 – Glance, the world’s leading smart lock screen platform has partnered with upGrad, one of Asia’s largest integrated learning skilling and workforce development companies, to unlock critical upskilling opportunities for millions of young Indians. Through this partnership, upGrad is providing free courses under its Intern-Zip program on Glance Smart Lock Screen. This partnership is part of “Glance for Good” program, that leverages the power of Glance Smart Lock Screens to foster personal growth and drive positive social change.

upGrad’s Intern-Zip is designed to impart essential, job-ready skills to the youth between 20 and 24 years of age. Glance reaches over 235 million users every day, 47% of whom are under 24 years of age. This makes Glance an ideal platform in terms of scale and relevance for upGrad to reach its intended beneficiaries. Within three weeks of the launch of the partnership, upGrad’s content has garnered over 100 million views (glances) on lock screens.

Most young Indians start their day with Glance Smart Lock Screen as early as 6 am. By bringing Intern-Zip to Glance’s users on their lock screens, this initiative aims to address the 13.4% unemployment rate among graduates by helping them build their professional futures with confidence and competence. Courses offered under this initiative cover foundational topics such as technical savviness, soft skills and professional development.

Piyush Shah, Co-founder of InMobi and COO & President of Glance, said, “With Glance, we’re not only reaching millions—we’re empowering them to seize opportunities and inspire them to discover something new every moment. By bringing upGrad’s workforce-ready content directly on smart lock screens, we’re equipping users with technical expertise, soft skills, and professional development tools. We’re creating a platform that fuels career growth, closes the skills gap, and directly contributes to India’s future.”

“India has now become a global epicentre of learning and skilling, and this is the most opportune time, we could really scale our value proposition to a different demographic altogether,” said Mayank Kumar, Co-founder of upGrad. “We notice a steady migration of individuals to service-based economy and AI-first businesses. This makes it crucial to provide the new generation with the right support, guidance and empowerment to shape their professional trajectories. Partnering with Glance allows us to expand our reach and leverage smart tech integration, further reinforcing our commitment to this cause.”

 With over 50% population under 25, India holds a demographic advantage that, if effectively utilized, can drive long-term economic growth Investment in upskilling initiatives can enhance labour market resilience, make youth job-ready, and address the evolving needs of a tech-driven economy.

 “As India works towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, a skilled, adaptable workforce is essential for sustaining growth and solidifying the nation’s standing as a global talent hub,” said Bikash Chowdhury, Chief Marketing Officer at Glance. “Our goal with Glance for Good program is to harness our massive user base in India, and ease of access to content on the lock screen to inspire positive behaviour and actions that drive large-scale, real-world impact. This partnership with upGrad is a big step in that direction.”

 Glance is an AI-driven platform that delivers a diverse range of engaging experiences directly on Android lock screens, including updates, sports, games and shopping, available in seven Indian languages. By partnering with reputable publishers and developers, Glance’s AI curates premium content tailored to each user’s preferences. This allows users to access relevant information seamlessly, without the need to unlock their phones or navigate through multiple apps.

Netherlands-Based YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar Launches in India, Ushering in a New Era for Tea Lovers in Bangalore

Bangalore, 18th December 2024: YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar, the internationally renowned and innovative tea pioneer from the Netherlands, has launched its first outlet in India, choosing Bangalore as the perfect gateway to a nation rich in tea tradition. With over 12 years of experience revolutionizing tea culture in Europe, YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar, founded by the visionary Wing Li and brought to India by the dynamic Jose Mohan, is set to enchant Indian tea lovers with its vibrant flavors, customizable creations, and contemporary approach.

Founded in the Netherlands—a country where coffee often dominates the beverage landscape—YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar began with a mission to reimagine tea as a dynamic and creative experience. Its signature pink branding, innovative bubble tea offerings, and personalized beverages including the unique warm bubble teas—have since captured hearts across Europe. By introducing warm bubble teas, a comforting twist on the globally loved bubble tea trend, YOYO! brings a fresh and cozy option for tea lovers, especially during cooler seasons. The brand now aspires to establish a similar legacy in India, celebrating the country’s deep-rooted tea culture.

Bangalore, known for its openness to culinary innovation, was a natural choice for YOYO!’s India debut. With a robust franchise model, the brand plans to expand across metropolitan and emerging cities.

Globally, the bubble tea market is booming, with a valuation of roughly $2.75 to $3 billion in 2023–2024, and projected growth to reach $5.4 billion by 2030–2032. The South Asia and Pacific region, one of the largest markets, dominates the industry and is poised for further growth, reflecting immense potential in these demographics. A significant driver of this rise is the increasing popularity of bubble tea among the younger generation, drawn to its innovative flavors and customizable options.

Having captivated the Netherlands, YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar now sets its sights on enchanting tea lovers across Europe and India. By introducing this global phenomenon, YOYO! aims to elevate India’s tea culture with unique flavors, locally sourced ingredients, and personalized beverages. Its expansive menu caters to all tastes, featuring refreshing fruity infusions, artisanal iced teas, and globally loved bubble tea creations. As the largest bubble tea store in the city, spanning 1800 sq ft, YOYO! offers tea enthusiasts an unmatched space to explore and customize drinks with premium toppings like popping bobas, tapioca pearls, and tropical jellies.

“India is the heartland of tea, and its rich heritage aligns perfectly with our journey of elevating this beloved beverage,” says Wing Li, Founder of YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar. “Our vision is to combine India’s love for tea with our innovative global concepts, crafting experiences that resonate with both tradition and modernity.”

The debut also marks the introduction of an exclusive range of ‘India Specials,’ created using locally sourced ingredients. These beverages will seamlessly blend traditional flavors with YOYO’s innovative techniques, offering something truly unique for Indian tea lovers.

“Our India Specials reflect our commitment to honoring the diverse tastes of India while introducing a fresh perspective on tea culture,” says Jose Mohan, Master Franchise Owner of YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar India. “By using locally sourced ingredients, we are not just crafting drinks, but creating a meaningful connection between global trends and local traditions.”

YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar is committed to sourcing ingredients locally, supporting regional farmers while reducing its ecological footprint. Franchise opportunities will prioritize partnerships with local entrepreneurs, fostering community-driven growth.

As YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar makes its grand entry into India, it envisions becoming a sanctuary for tea lovers—a space where heritage meets modern innovation. With its iconic branding, globally loved menu, and commitment to sustainability, YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar is poised to create a tea revolution in India, one handcrafted cup at a time. For those eager to get a taste, YOYO! Fresh Tea Bar is also available on Swiggy and Zomato, bringing its refreshing beverages right to your doorstep.

FIIB Celebrates the Power of Midlife at TEDxFIIB Women, Redefining a Pivotal Life Phase

New Delhi, December 18, 2024: Fortune Institute of International Business (FIIB) hosted a transformative edition of TEDxFIIB Women on 14th December 2024, themed Midlife Matters, spotlighting the importance of midlife as a time of growth, self-discovery, and reinvention. The event gathered 10 trailblazing speakers who shared their personal stories, offering insights into the opportunities, challenges, and transformations that come with this pivotal phase of life.

 In a world that often glorifies youth, TEDxFIIB Women sought to redefine midlife, presenting it not as a crisis but as an empowering chapter full of possibilities. The event began with an inspiring address from Prof. Radhika Srivastava, President & CEO of FIIB, who emphasized the need for conversations around midlife transformations in personal and professional contexts. Her words set the tone for an empowering day filled with insights, stories, and actionable wisdom
Conversations That Matter
The speakers included leaders from diverse fields, all reflecting on how midlife has shaped their personal and professional journeys. Dr. Maria Pressentin, Chief Knowledge Officer at Leadership Scientific, kicked off the talks with From Limits to Liberation: The Power of Fitting You, inspiring the audience to embrace individuality and authenticity. Leadership coach Ms. Navixha Bagga followed with her session Four Mantras to Your Best Life in Midlife, encouraging attendees to break free from stereotypes and embrace self-awareness.

 Ms. Supriya Nagpal, a content creator and lifestyle influencer, shared her reinvention journey, from a midlife wake-up call to becoming a fitness influencer and pageant winner. Dancer and choreographer Ms. Ritu Gupta spoke on Dance: A Path to Liberation in Midlife, highlighting the role of creative expression and emotional resilience. Entrepreneur Ms. Divya Jain discussed how setting boundaries in her talk When ‘No’ Becomes a New Beginning, empowering the audience to take control of their narratives.

 Inspiring Journeys
Among the event’s standout moments were talks by Ms. Madhu Bala Sharma, Senior Program Manager at Amazon, and Ms. Dipti Karki, Founder of Phosphenes Art Studio. Ms. Sharma shared her extraordinary journey as a blind individual, emphasizing how midlife can be an opportunity for growth, not a crisis. In her talk Embracing Life, One Page at a Time, she encouraged the audience to transform challenges into meaningful stories. Meanwhile, Ms. Karki offered a profound perspective on navigating midlife with Mindfully Mapping Through Middle-Age, urging attendees to embrace self-discovery and reinvention.

 The event concluded with Ms. Deepali Wilson, Principal of DPS Chhatarpur, who shared her philosophy of being “invisibly visible,” encouraging attendees to embrace midlife as a time of authenticity and grace.

 Moments of Connection
In addition to the impactful talks, the event featured a dance workshop led by Ms. Gupta, which showcased how dance can serve as a tool for emotional balance and self-expression. Mr. Abhijeet Singh, CEO of Kubotor, also delivered an insightful talk on cybersecurity, educating the audience on safeguarding their digital lives.

 TEDxFIIB Women was not just an event—it was a movement. By highlighting the opportunities in midlife, it reinforced the message that this phase is one of reinvention and empowerment. The event left every attendee with renewed purpose and the tools to confidently navigate their own midlife transformations.

Moneycontrol India Fintech Conclave 2024 Returns for Its Highly Anticipated Second Edition

18th December: Moneycontrol is proud to announce the second edition of the India Fintech Conclave, set to take place on 18th December, 2024 in Mumbai. Following the success of its inaugural edition, this year’s conclave, centred around the theme ‘Innovate: Transform: Regulate’, promises to bring together some of the brightest minds and most influential leaders in India’s rapidly evolving fintech ecosystem.

As one of India’s premier fintech platforms, the conclave will feature discussions with policymakers, regulators, bankers, fintech founders, thought leaders, and academics, focusing on ways to toughen and scale India’s fintech sector. The speakers of the event include some of the most influential voices in financial services and fintech – Ananth Narayan, Whole Time Member, SEBI; Ritesh Shukla, CEO, NPCI International Payments Limited; Srinivasu MN, Co-Founder, BillDesk; Vikas Bansal, CEO, Amazon Pay India; Madhusudanan R, Co-Founder, M2P Fintech; Anup Agarwal, Founder, Mintifi; Mohit Sahney, MD & CEO, Finova Capital and Utpal Isser, Co-Founder, SarvaGram.

Avinash Kaul, Chief Executive Officer – Network18 (Broadcast) & Managing Director A+E Networks I TV18 said, “The India Fintech Conclave 2024 exemplifies Moneycontrol’s dedication to fostering innovation and meaningful dialogue within the fintech ecosystem. This year’s theme, ‘Innovate: Transform: Regulate’ highlights not only the pivotal role fintech plays in shaping India’s domestic economy but also its growing influence on the global stage. From UPI becoming a benchmark for digital payments worldwide to Indian fintechs collaborating with international markets, the sector is making significant strides in redefining global financial systems. By uniting industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, we aim to foster transformative growth and establish India as a global leader in fintech excellence.”

Also sharing his views, Puneet Singhvi, CEO-Network18 (Digital) & President – Corporate Strategy at Network18 Media & Investments Limited, said, “As India cements its position as a global fintech leader, we are proud to provide a platform that not only drives critical conversations but also inspires meaningful change. The Moneycontrol India Fintech Conclave 2024, is a testament to our dedication to fostering collaboration, delivering actionable insights, and shaping the future of financial technology in India and beyond.”

“The India Fintech Conclave 2024 exemplifies Moneycontrol’s commitment to fostering innovation and meaningful dialogue within the financial technology ecosystem. With this year’s theme, ‘Innovate, Transform, Regulate,’ we aim to address pivotal issues reshaping the future of fintech in India. By bringing together industry stalwarts, policymakers, and thought leaders, the conclave will drive critical conversations and ideas to help build a resilient, and inclusive financial landscape. The fintech sector has a critical role to play in catalysing India’s growth story and as India’s largest financial news platform we, at Moneycontrol, are excited to enable a meeting ground for industry collaboration and groundbreaking insights at a time when India is shooting to become the world’s third largest economy.” said Nalin Mehta, Managing Editor, Moneycontrol.

Global Experts Discuss ‘Information and Competition in the Digital Economy’ at ISB-NBER 2024 Conference

[December 18, 2024]: The third annual ISB-NBER conference on Economic Policy and the Indian Economy was recently hosted at the Hyderabad campus of the Indian School of Business (ISB). National and international subject experts and thought leaders converged at ISB to discuss and deliberate on the opportune theme ‘Information and Competition in the Digital Economy.’

The conference is a collaborative effort between ISB and the US National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER). Through this conference, ISB and NBER facilitate bringing to the fore cutting-edge investigation and analysis of major economic issues. The conference, through research papers and discussions, examined topics like how digital platforms are impacting the market forces, the effects of regulatory policies in digital markets, digital market players, digital innovations, acquisitions, and scale economies for the growth of the digital economy.

Over 25 noted economists, academicians, and subject experts shared their research findings at the conference. Experts included Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of RBI and Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business; Shane Greenstein, Professor of Business Administration, Harvard Business School; Luigi Zingales, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Finance, The University of Chicago Booth School of Business; Viral V. Acharya, former Deputy Governor of RBI and Professor of Economics in the Department of Finance at New York University Stern School of Business; Tommaso Valletti, Professor of Economics at Imperial College Business School; Professor Zhiguo He, Professor of Finance at the Graduate School of Business, Stanford University; Amit Seru, Professor of Finance at Stanford Graduate School of Business; and Bhagwan Chowdhry, Professor of Finance, ISB.