31, Dec 2024
10 NGE Payloads successfully Deployed on POEM-4 of PSLV-C60 Mission
Ahmedabad, December 31st 2024 – The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) facilitated the successful establishment and operationalization of 10 hosted payloads from Non-Government Entities (NGEs) on board the POEM-4 module of the PSLV-C60/SPADEX mission by Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). The mission that launched today, carried out in-orbit scientific experiments at an altitude of 350 km with a 55-degree inclination, utilizing the spent PS4 stage repurposed as the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4).
POEM, an innovative platform that repurposes the fourth stage of the PSLV into an orbital experiment module after the primary mission. It conducts scientific and technological experiments in orbit. Equipped with essential capabilities like power supply, telemetry, and command support, POEM enables seamless operations for on board experiments. By leveraging existing infrastructure, it offers a cost-effective and rapid development approach for diverse research pursuits.
Commenting on the POEM deployment Dr Pawan Goenka- Chairman IN-SPACe said, “The PSLV Orbital Experiment Module (POEM) is a practical solution deployed by ISRO that allows Indian start-ups, academic institutions, and research organizations to test their space technologies without the need to launch entire satellites. By making this platform accessible, we are reducing entry barriers and enabling a wider range of entities to contribute to the space sector. At IN-SPACe, our role is to create opportunities for such collaborations and ensure that India’s private sector can grow alongside advancements in space technology. Missions like these will be instrumental in capacity building by enabling NGEs to get their payloads space qualified, thus augmenting their future satellite launch missions.”
The POEM-4 mission marked a significant milestone with the deployment of 24 non-separable payloads, supporting a wide array of scientific and technological endeavours. Of these, 10 payloads from 10 NGEs were selected based on recommendations from the Standing, Selection, and Advisory Committee as given below:
| S. No. | NGE (Applicant) | Payload/experiment in brief |
| 1. | GalaxEye Space Solutions Private Limited, Bengaluru | GLX-SQ: Validate hardware and software for processing and transmitting SAR imagery in space |
| 2. | SJC Institute of Technology, Chikballapur | BGS-ARPIT: Amateur Radio payload, VHF Transmission of Pre-recorded image, audio and text, APRS Digipeater |
| 3. | Bellatrix Aerospace Pvt Ltd, Bangalore | RUDRA 1.0 HPGP: Demonstration of High-Performance Green Propulsion System with a Green Monopropellant (HAN based) having thrust of 1 N. |
| 4. | RV College of Engineering, Bangalore | RV-SAT1: Study gut bacteria Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and prebiotic effects in microgravity. |
| 5. | Dr. Vishwanath Karad MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), Pune | STeRG-P1.0: Test avionics COTS-based ARM and MEMS sensors for attitude determination on POEM-4. |
| 6. | PierSight Space Private Limited, Ahmedabad | Varuna-TD: Study reflect-array antenna deployment, X-Band SAR electronics, and AIS baseband electronics |
| 7. | Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited, Navi Mumbai | Vyom 2U: Demonstrate successful ignition, performance of a Green Monopropellant (H2O2 based) thruster, with peak thrust of 0.7 N |
| 8. | Takeme2Space Technologies Private Limited, Hyderabad | MOI-TD: Demonstrate AI-Lab in space, characterize indigenously developed torquers, reaction wheels, and perform uplink of customer application code |
| 9. | Amity University Maharashtra, Mumbai | APEMS: Study growth-related changes of plant callus in Spinacia oleracea under microgravity and natural gravity |
| 10. | NSpace Tech India Private Limited, Tenali | Swetchasat-V0: Establish communication link to demonstrate UHF transmitter from ISTRAC |
The Technical centre of IN-SPACe in Ahmedabad provided critical support for this mission by enabling several payloads to undergo rigorous environmental testing, ensuring they met all mission requirements.
- 0
- By Sai Krishna
31, Dec 2024
DPS Lava Enchants at Utsav 2024-25: Jana Gana Mana – Harmonising Hearts
Nagpur, 31 December, 2024……Delhi Public School Lava, Nagpur unveiled its spectacular Annual Function ‘Utsav 2024-25’ with the soul-stirring theme ‘Jana Gana Mana – Harmonising Hearts.’ The event radiated grandeur and patriotism, graced by the legendary actor Mr. PAVAN MALHOTRA as Chief Guest, alongside distinguished Guests of Honour, a revered Kathak maestro Shree Madan Pande, and Mrs. India International Dr Pooja Vyas. The school’s Pro VC, Mr. Gautam Rajgharia, Ms Sanjana Rajgharia and visionary Principal, Dr. Anupama Sagdeo, added to the prestige.
The celebration began with an auspicious lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing enlightenment, followed by the Principal’s eloquent Annual Report. Mr. Malhotra’s inspiring words on ‘Nation First, Always First’ and the richness of India’s heritage struck a chord with all.
A visual symphony unfolded as students depicted Rabindranath Tagore’s ‘Morning Song of India’ five stanzas through mesmerizing dances and theatrical acts, culminating in the triumphant National Anthem. The event was a poetic homage to India’s unity and cultural legacy.
31, Dec 2024
India’s Tech Sector Set for 10-12% Growth in 2025, Driven by Emerging Technologies: FirstMeridian Report
2024 has been a pivotal year for the Indian IT sector, shaped by both domestic and global economic shifts, technological advancements, and changes in workforce dynamics. Anticipated to contribute 10% to India’s GDP by 2025, Indian IT/tech ecosystem is poised for a promising growth trajectory in the coming years, with workforce expansion being a crucial element of this journey.
Looking back at 2024, the Indian IT/tech ecosystem witnessed a 17% surge in new employment opportunities, driven by rapid digital transformation and the concurrent rising demand for emerging tech niche job profiles. After a muted H1, the sector regained momentum, As we gear up for 2025, these trends will continue, while also eyeing an average 20% rise in profiles like application developers, software engineers, DevOps engineers, AI, ML, and Cyber Security.
Moreover, Artificial Intelligence (AI) which was a major trend in 2024, is expected to further accelerate in 2025. The sector is set for remarkable expansion, with high demand for roles such as data analysts, data engineers, data scientists, and others. The Gen-AI industry alone is projected to 1 million new job opportunities by 2028, contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP. Salaries for Gen-AI positions like Generative AI engineer, Algorithm engineer, AI security specialist are forecasted to rise from the previous year, indicating a 25 -30% upward trend in compensation for mid-level category .
As businesses expand and innovate, this surge in hiring will support new projects, enhance digital infrastructure, and keep pace with technological advancements. For instance, Industries like Global Capability Centers (GCCs) have created over 600,000 jobs between 2018-19 and 2023-24. By 2030, they are projected to employ 2.5 to 2.8 million professionals. Additionally, other non tech sectors like BFSI and Telecom are also likely to increase their intake of IT/tech professionals in the coming year.
As we move towards an evolving IT landscape in 2025, there will be an essential focus on tech upskilling to cultivate a robust workforce pool. Majority of large enterprises and mid-sized companies are expected to marginally increase their upskilling budgets by an average of 15-20% in 2025. Additionally, individuals will continue taking initiative for their own upskilling efforts to prepare for promising new-age tech roles.
An emerging sector set to thrive in 2025 is the Indian IT gig economy, projected to grow by 3X and employ 24 million people by 2030 in which a majority will be created in 2025 and 2026 in high-demand skill areas such as AI Engineers, Data Analysts, and Cybersecurity professional. This demand is expected to follow a 1:1 ratio between Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities. This growth underscores a rising dependence on flexible talent solutions to address the evolving needs of the tech landscape. Companies are increasingly turning to gig workers for their specialized expertise and adaptability, driving hiring trends toward niche technical roles and project-based engagements, making the gig economy a key player in shaping the future of IT talent.
A new wave of growth is emerging in the Indian IT sector, extending beyond Tier 1 cities to include Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns. With companies embracing flexibility and operating in smaller cities, job seekers now have the chance to work closer to home. This shift is expected to fuel a 35%+ increase in hiring across these regions by 2025 with Tier 2 cities like Jaipur, Indore and Coimbatore leading the way.
Although the Indian IT ecosystem stabilised to a larger extend, the sector still faces few challenges, including a talent shortage in emerging fields like AI and cybersecurity, and the impact of global economic instabilities. While initiatives like Digital India and Skill India are beneficial, further strategies to upskill talent and enhance value amid cost pressures are essential for navigating the next phase of technological transformation.
31, Dec 2024
Understanding Vertigo: Unraveling the Neurological Triggers Behind the Dizziness
By-Dr. Mahesh Jadhav Consultant – Neurology Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune
When a person has vertigo, they feel as though their environment is moving even though there isn’t any actual motion. Extreme vertigo can make it difficult to balance or carry out regular tasks. Vertigo can strike out of nowhere and last anywhere from a few seconds to days or more. This sensation can be defined by dizziness or spinning. The symptoms of vertigo include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty walking. Vertigo is not a disease in and of itself, but rather a symptom of several underlying conditions.
There are multiple causes of vertigo, ranging from migraine headaches, arrhythmia, and diabetes to neurological causes.
Vestibular Migraine
Vestibular migraines have a special effect on the vestibular system, which regulates balance and spatial orientation. These migraines cause disturbances in the vestibular nuclei, which are areas of the brainstem that process information about balance. Unlike ordinary migraines, vestibular migraines may not always result in a headache. Instead, they often manifest as vestibular symptoms such as lightheadedness, vertigo, or problems with balance. People with vestibular migraines frequently have a history of frequent migraines and increased sensitivity to motion. These sensations can be confusing and significantly impact everyday tasks.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) and Strokes
Both multiple sclerosis (MS) and strokes, particularly transient ischemic episodes (TIAs), can cause vertigo, though they do so in different ways. In multiple sclerosis, the immune system attacks the nerves’ protective coating, causing damage to the nerves. This injury can affect the nerves responsible for balance and coordination, leading to vertigo, a sensation of spinning or losing equilibrium. This symptom can be quite incapacitating and often coexists with other neurological impairments caused by multiple sclerosis.
However, when blood supply to the brain is reduced or disrupted, strokes and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) happen. If the brainstem or cerebellum—two crucial regions for processing balance and spatial orientation—are affected, vertigo could appear as a symptom. In these cases, the reduction in blood flow damages the brain cells, disrupting the balance-maintenance mechanisms.
Cerebellar Tumors
Chronic vertigo might come from cerebellar tumors that disrupt the brain’s capacity to interpret balance cues. This is similar to how Chiari malformation, a structural abnormality that pushes the cerebellum into the spinal canal, can induce symptoms like dizziness and poor coordination, as well as impair balance. A doctor is required to treat both disorders.
Vestibular Neuritis
The inner ear disorder known as vestibular neuritis is brought on by inflammation of the vestibular nerve. This nerve oversees communicating balancing information to the brain from the inner ear. When it becomes inflamed, it interferes with these signals, causing severe and protracted vertigo episodes that are frequently accompanied by nausea and balance issues.
Epilepsy
Vertigo can sometimes occur during an epileptic aura or focal seizures, especially when they affect the temporal lobe. During these seizures, abnormal electrical activity in the brain’s vestibular system can cause a rare type of partial seizure. This seizure is often marked by a spinning or whirling sensation and can sometimes result in convulsions. The sensation of vertigo in these cases is part of the aura or the beginning phase of the seizure.
Brainstem Lesions
Vertigo can arise from changes in the vestibular pathways caused by brainstem lesions from diseases such as ischemia or demyelination. When brainstem lesions impair the brainstem’s capacity to interpret vestibular signals, vertigo can develop. Through the integration of sensory data from the body, eyes, and inner ear, the brainstem preserves equilibrium and spatial orientation. Lesions in this area can cause distorted vestibular processing, which can lead to vertigo.
23, Dec 2024
Swipe Crime – Rishab Chadha Unveils a Turbulent Journey as Vidhaan
Rishab Chadha Unveils a Turbulent Journey as Vidhaan in ‘Swipe Crime’: A Tale of Betrayal, Innovation, and the Web’s Dark Side
Mumbai, India/23rd December 2024 – Rishab Chadha, known for his compelling performances, takes on the role of Vidhaan in the highly anticipated series Swipe Crime. This riveting narrative dives deep into the digital age, exploring how the shimmering facade of the tech world hides dark secrets, vulnerabilities, and chaos.
Vidhaan is not just any character. He’s a young, visionary entrepreneur grappling with the fragility of trust, the weight of financial instability, and the personal cost of preserving what he cherishes most—a work of art that’s more than just a creation; it’s his soul. This story isn’t just about technology or ambition; it’s about human connections, betrayal, and the lengths one goes to for redemption.
As the series delves into the crimes that fester within the vast labyrinth of the internet, Vidhaan (Rishab) becomes a symbol of resilience and ingenuity, walking the fine line between survival and destruction. With Rishab Chadha’s nuanced portrayal, Swipe Crime promises to captivate audiences and spark dialogue about the shadows lurking in our digitally-driven lives.
Here are five tantalizing questions with Rishab Chadha that give a glimpse into the enigma of Swipe Crime:
1. Vidhaan is such a layered character. What drew you to this role?
Rishab Chadha: Honestly, Vidhaan is every bit the young entrepreneur we admire and fear becoming. He’s brilliant, driven, but also painfully human. When I read the script, I was drawn to his vulnerability—this idea that even someone so tech-savvy and seemingly untouchable could be undone by betrayal and the chaotic underbelly of the web. It’s not just his struggle; it’s his heart, his fight to save something that defines him. That was irresistible for me as an actor.
2. The series heavily explores the theme of web crime. What’s Vidhaan’s connection to the digital world?
Rishab Chadha: Vidhaan comes from a small town with a lot of dreams and aspirations, as the show precedes you’ll see how inclined he is towards using his knowledge to build something that is pathbreaking. Being foresighted, he just wants to keep all his loved ones together. His entrepreneurial journey is built on innovation, dreams and the zeal to make lives easier. The story intricately shows how the web can empower you one moment and destroy you the next. Vidhaan’s world is upended when he’s caught in a web of deceit, blackmail, and cyber manipulation.
3. Betrayal plays a significant role in the story. Can you tell us more about Vidhaan’s friendships and how they shape his journey?
Rishab Chadha: Friendships are the foundation of Vidhaan’s world, but they also become his Achilles’ heel. The series explores how those closest to him are the ones capable of the deepest betrayal. It’s heartbreaking and maddening, watching someone so brilliant crumble under the weight of trust misplaced. These betrayals aren’t just personal—they threaten his business, his identity, and his very sense of self.
4. The show touches on the intersection of technology and crime. How relevant do you think this theme is today?
Rishab Chadha: It couldn’t be more relevant. We live in an age where our entire lives—our secrets, finances, and even relationships—are stored online. Swipe Crime is a chilling reminder of how vulnerable we are, especially when technology is used against us. It’s a wake-up call for every young person who believes they’re invincible behind a screen. The series doesn’t just entertain; it makes you question how much of yourself you’re willing to expose to the digital world.
5. If you had to describe Swipe Crime in three words, what would they be?
Rishab Chadha: Thrilling, unsettling, and haunting.
With Swipe Crime, Rishab Chadha not only delivers a powerful performance but also sheds light on the intricate and often dangerous realities of the modern tech-driven world. The series is more than just entertainment—it’s a scandalous exposé on the fragility of trust, the cost of ambition, and the perilous double-edged sword of technology.
Catch Swipe Crime on Amazon mx player, and prepare to be drawn into a story that’s as gripping as it is cautionary.
23, Dec 2024
Corrugated packaging Industry to grow at 10-12% annually for the next 10 years
52nd Annual Meeting of The Federation of Corrugated Box Manufacturers (FCBM) witnesses wide industry participation
Bengaluru, December 23, 2024 — The 52nd Annual Meeting and Exhibition of the Federation of Corrugated Box Manufacturers (FCBM) was inaugurated in the city, marking a significant milestone for India’s rapidly growing corrugated packaging industry. With a market size of approximately ₹50,000 crore annually and a growth rate of 10-12%, the corrugated box manufacturing sector is poised to continue its upward trajectory for the next 5 to 10 years.
Noted Defence Economist and Senior Fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, Mr. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra was the chief guest and delivered the inaugural address. Mr. C Arun Kumar, CEO – of Consumer Business, Signify Innovations India Limited (Formerly Philips Lighting India Limited) delivered the keynote address. The inauguration ceremony saw participation from leading industry experts, manufacturers, and policymakers, who discussed the key drivers and future trends shaping the industry. Keynote addresses highlighted the significant role of the sector in driving sustainability, efficiency, and innovation across various industries, including food and beverage, e-commerce, and more.
India is home to more than 600 automated plants and approximately 7,000 semi-automatic plants in the corrugated box manufacturing space. The industry employs over half a million people and processes about 2 million tons of Kraft paper annually into corrugated boxes. This vibrant sector has become crucial for improving product safety, particularly in the food and beverage industry, while also catering to the booming e-commerce market.
“The corrugated box industry in India is witnessing unparalleled growth, driven by strong demand in key sectors and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. The global corrugated packaging Industry is estimated to be at $300 billion and is growing at a CAGR of 4.3% fueled by expansion of e-commerce consumer preference for biodegradable packaging and innovations in lightweight materials. The Indian packaging industry is estimated to grow at 22 to 25% annually and the corrugated packaging Industry is expected to grow at 10-12%. As we look ahead, we anticipate significant shifts toward larger automatic plants and advanced machinery, which will not only enhance productivity but also meet the evolving needs of consumers and businesses alike.” said Dharmendra V. Pandya, President of FCBM.
Factors Driving Growth
Some of the key factors fueling the growth of the industry include the increasing demand for packaging solutions in the food and beverage industry, the rapid rise of e-commerce, and favorable government initiatives aimed at boosting manufacturing capabilities and sustainability. The ongoing shift towards automation, particularly with the deployment of Inline Automatic Board and Box Making Plants, is expected to streamline production and eliminate existing bottlenecks in the semi-automatic processes.
Trends
Other anticipated trends include a rise in the use of Folder Gluers and Rotary Diecutters, advancements in multicolor flexo printing, and an increased focus on display and promotional packaging. Flexo printing, in particular, is expected to revolutionize in-house printing operations, reducing reliance on screen printing and offset presses.
The future of the corrugated packaging industry is also expected to see a growing consolidation of large-scale units to meet the rising demand for high-volume production and cost competitiveness. Large corporates and bulk users are increasingly seeking single or multiple alternative vendors capable of delivering stringent specifications, alternative designs, and just-in-time deliveries.
The rise of reverse bidding, coupled with the concept of First Pak, will further enhance the competitiveness of large units, while the trend of locating corrugated box units closer to user locations may see a shift. With the growing interest in machinery from China, Taiwan, and other Asian countries, collaborations and alliances between local manufacturers and international suppliers are expected to shape the future of the industry.
The FCBM’s Annual Meeting serves as a vital platform for stakeholders across the industry to come together, share insights, and discuss the future of the corrugated packaging sector. As India’s corrugated packaging industry continues to evolve, the focus on innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement will remain key to maintaining its competitive edge.
16, Dec 2024
Go Colors Partners with Zepto for 10-Minute Deliveries
The Fastest Fashion Fix Ever: Go Colors Partners with Zepto for 10-Minute Deliveries
Get ready to level up your everyday glam in just 10 minutes!
Go Colors, the premium brand for bottom wear in India has joined forces with Zepto, the 10-minute delivery powerhouse, to revolutionize the way customers shop for fashion. Together, they’re delivering quality bottom wear to your doorstep in just 10 minutes, offering a shopping experience that’s quicker and more seamless.
Renowned for providing chic bottomwear in an array of sizes and hues across multiple categories, Go Colors boasts a wide offline footprint with more than 750 stores across 170+ cities in India. Having expanded extensively in the offline space, Go Colors is now vying for the fast-growing quick commerce sector through its partnership with Zepto and is currently available across Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. The brand has decided to deliver a collection of leggings and churidars quickly, to perfectly complement your everyday attire.
“At Go Colors, we strive to bring unmatched convenience to our customers. By merging Go Colors’ trendsetting bottomwear with Zepto’s lightning-fast delivery, we aim to fix the hassle of last-minute wardrobe choices,” said Mr Gautam Saraogi, Founder and CEO of Go Colors. He further added, “We are excited to team up with Zepto to bring Go Colors’ fashion forward and comfortable bottomwear closer to millions of shoppers across India. This will facilitate us to make fashion more accessible than ever before.” stated Mr. Saraogi.
“At Zepto, we are honoured to team up with India’s top bottom-wear brand, Go Colors. This strategic partnership strives to bridge a significant selection gap in the women’s bottomwear category on quick commerce, delivering shoppers with quick access to a wide range of styles. Aligning with Go Colors will contribute to Zepto’s evolution in the women’s fashion sector,” stated Chandan Mendiratta, Chief Brand Officer, Zepto.
