1, Jul 2023
HP Government in collaboration with FICCI to organize Himachal Drone Conclave 2023
# Exploring the Transformative Potential of Drones: HP Govt and FICCI join hands for Himachal Drone Conclave 2023
# Shaping the Future of Drone Technology: Himachal Drone Conclave 2023 to be Inaugurated by Hon’ble Chief Minister of HP
[Delhi, July 1, 2023] –
The Himachal Pradesh Government, in association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), is pleased to announce the upcoming HIMACHAL DRONE CONCLAVE 2023. This pioneering event will bring together experts, stakeholders, and enthusiasts from the drone industry to explore the transformative potential of drone technology in various sectors. The conclave aims to foster innovation, knowledge sharing, and collaboration in this rapidly evolving field.
The HIMACHAL DRONE CONCLAVE 2023 is scheduled to take place on 4th- 5th July, 2023 (Tuesday & Wednesday) at Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University (CSKHPKV) in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. The programme will commence at 09.00 AM and continue until 05:30 PM.
The conclave will be inaugurated by the esteemed Chief Guest, Shri Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Hon’ble Chief Minister of the Government of Himachal Pradesh. Speaking about the event, Sh. Gokul Butail, Principal Advisor (IT and Innovation), Government of Himachal Pradesh, shared his thoughts, stating, “We are honored to host the HIMACHAL DRONE CONCLAVE 2023 and have FICCI partnering with the State for the event. This event is a significant step towards harnessing the immense potential of drone technology in our State. We envision this conclave to be a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, enabling us to explore innovative drone applications for the benefit of various sectors.”
The HIMACHAL DRONE CONCLAVE 2023 will witness insightful panel discussions, engaging presentations, exhibition and live demonstrations showcasing the latest advancements in drone technology. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with industry experts, government officials, researchers, and professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a conducive environment for networking and collaboration.
With the objective of promoting the utilization of drones in diverse domains such as agriculture, disaster management, healthcare, infrastructure, and more, this conclave aims to generate awareness about the transformative capabilities of drones and their potential to revolutionize industries.
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- By Neel Achary
30, Jun 2023
Biz Staffing Comrade to host HR Conclave – Biz Connect in Bangalore
Bangalore, June 30, 2023: Biz Staffing Comrade Pvt Ltd, a renowned name in the HR realm which provides a wide range of recruitment and selection services to diverse companies will be hosting a HR Conclave – Biz Connect at Novotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road on July 07, 2023. This specially curated event will consist of multiple sessions with eminent TA & HR experts from across industries with themes such as – Embracing a strategic approach to talent acquisition (TA) in today’s business environment, Unveiling the best practices in building long-term talent pools, Identifying, and overcoming the challenges along the way amongst others. The event will also have discussions around the impending recession, layoffs and challenges faced by HR leaders, companies and employees.
The event and the roundtable discussion will be moderated by Shubhra Bhandari, a highly accomplished HR professional with a remarkable track record. She has around 2 decades of experience across leading technology and consumer organizations. Her presence has inspired and empowered many to drive positive change in the HR ecosystem.
Speaking on the event, Puneet Arora, Managing Partner, Biz Staffing Comrade Pvt Ltd said, “This event will offer an opportunity for HR professionals to gain insight from renowned industry experts and engage in meaningful dialogue with their peers. Today, organizations across the globe find themselves at the crossroads of the next big technology disruption. The event is expected to deliberate on how Talent Acquisition and HR can play a significant role during this macro economics.”
Over the years, the role of the talent acquisition function has changed considerably from a traditional number focused inward function to a highly quality focused outward function to achieve the organization’s broader goals. TA is now responsible for so much more within this space, from talent information to internal mobility and retention and tends to focus on long-term human resources planning.
“Considering the increased focus on people capability and the asymmetric talent war in the market the role of Talent Acquisition has become critical to organizations. Biz Connect will provide networking and knowledge sharing extravaganza and an unparalleled opportunity to gain insights, and discover the latest trends in the field of rapidly-evolving HR landscape from eminent professionals and experts.” said Jasvinder Bedi, Managing Partner, Biz Staffing Comrade Pvt Ltd.
Overall, the conclave will see participation from top – notch talent acquisition and HR leaders, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience for everyone involved in this extraordinary occasion and promises to be an event of valuable knowledge exchange.
30, Jun 2023
Commonwealth Secretary-General to attend CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Trinidad and Tobago
Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, will attend the Conference of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Port-of-Spain from 3 to 5 July 2023 as a special guest.
This year marks 50 years since the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas in Trinidad and Tobago in 1973, which led to the establishment of the Caribbean Community. The next week’s meeting will officially launch CARICOM’s 50th-anniversary celebrations.
Speaking ahead of her visit, the Commonwealth Secretary-General commended the achievements of the organisation, stating:
“CARICOM came together 50 years ago to enhance the connections, well-being, prosperity and security of Caribbean countries and their citizens. Those objectives were prescient then, and now, half a century later, they are more important than ever.”
She added:
“The Commonwealth’s partnership with CARICOM spans over the past 50 years, and today, our co-operation on a wide array of initiatives is more comprehensive than ever before.”
In Trinidad and Tobago, the Secretary-General will engage with Caribbean leaders, seeking their perspectives and collaborating on strategies to provide more tailored and practical assistance to the region.
She will also update leaders on preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled to take place in Samoa from 21 October 2024.
With 12 of the 15 CARICOM members also being part of the Commonwealth, the Secretary-General emphasised the importance of strengthening the collaboration between the two organisations.
She will highlight the targeted assistance being provided by the Secretariat to the region, particularly through the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub. As of June 2023, the hub has helped secure over US $52 million in climate finance for Commonwealth member countries in the Caribbean.
During the conference, Secretary-General Scotland will reaffirm the Commonwealth’s unwavering commitment to championing the concerns and interests of small states on the global stage, with a focus on urgent climate action and advocating for a new global financing system that addresses the needs of the small and vulnerable.
In particular, she will draw attention to the significant gap between the ambitious climate finance pledges and the limited funding actually being disbursed to help developing countries to tackle climate change.
Secretary-General Scotland said:
“We cannot stand by as small and vulnerable states drown in rising seas and suffocate under crushing debt. Small states, least responsible for climate change, suffer a double injustice – enduring the devastating aftermath of disasters and grappling with exorbitant borrowing costs for recovery.”
She further highlighted the resilience of the Caribbean region, stating:
“For decades, when it has been faced with the worst, Caribbean leaders have shown their best. They have led the world on the issues of the day, and they have shown their true power as a united voice for those who are in need.”
Acknowledging the recent announcements made at the Paris Climate Finance Summit as “important steps in a much longer journey”, the Secretary-General added that after advocacy from the Commonwealth and the Caribbean, spearheaded by the Prime Minister of Barbados, the Hon Mia Mottley, with the support of other regional leaders, the reforms to multilateral lending practices are now being seriously considered.
There is hope, she added, that these will be amended to reflect the realities of the climate crisis and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable states.
This CARICOM conference is convened under the chairmanship of the Hon Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of Dominica – the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s country of birth.
Following the CARICOM conference, the Secretary-General will embark on an official visit to The Bahamas to take part in the country’s celebrations for the 50th anniversary of independence.
30, Jun 2023
AI presents enormous opportunities, but human-like AI decades away: ReDi Digital Dialogue
30th June 2023, Ahmedabad: Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds enormous potential and opportunities in multiple areas, but human-like AI is still decades away, industry veteran Sunil Parekh said at the ReDi Digital Dialogue 2023 on Friday.
ReDi (Responsibly Digital), a social initiative aimed at promoting responsible digital behaviour, celebrated World Social Media Day on June 30 with the 11th annual edition of ReDi Digital Dialogue. Key thought leaders shared their thoughts at a workshop and panel discussions on two very interesting and relevant subjects organised as a part of the event.
ReDi Digital Dialogue 2023 centred around the theme “AI: Generative or Degenerative?”, a reflection of the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence in our lives. “AI has been around for a very long time but it has now been put in everyone’s hands with tools like ChatGPT. This has awakened our realisation of AI’s immense technological possibilities and it can be used for doing human tasks like passing exams, writing jingles, guiding robots, and much more. But, we also need to understand the risks associated with AI very seriously,” Mr Parekh, industry veteran and founding curator of Ahmedabad Global Shapers, said in his keynote address.
He said defence, retail, finance and BFSI, healthcare, education, preventive maintenance, city management, and precision agriculture are some of the areas where AI has enormous opportunities, but noted that the concerns over job losses due to AI are overestimated.Mr Parekh also said that human-like AI is decades away. “Humans have emotions, machines don’t. We initiate new things, we reflect, we hope, and we create. We are irrational, machines aren’t. We have the sense of good or bad. Machines can never have these. They can only duplicate what we think,” he said further.
Explaining the mission of ReDi, its Co-founder Shailesh Goyal, said, “ReDi was established with the vision of making people realise the importance of utilising the power of digital media responsibly. There has been a jump in the use of AI-powered tools, which is why the theme of the event revolves around AI. AI has been integrated into many tools, leading to enhanced levels of creativity and faster delivery across applications.”
Sahil Shah, Founder of Netsavvies Media Co. and Hungrito, set the tone for the event with an interactive workshop on “60 AI Tools in Under 90 Minutes”, providing the participants with hands-on experience with various AI applications.
Two engaging panel discussions were also organised as a part of the ReDi Digital Dialogue. The first, titled “Navigating in The Emerging AI Landscape,” featured Kamal Bansal, Managing Director of GVFL, Aashesh Shaah, CEO of Fusion Informatics, and Jaydip Binniwale, Co-founder and CTO of Downtown Club as esteemed panellists. Amit Saluja, Senior Director and Centre Head at Gandhinagar CoE at NASSCOM moderated the session.
The second panel discussion, “The Future of AI & Its Impact on Future Jobs & Organisations,” brought together M Nagarajan, Mehsana district collector, Ayaz Saiyed, Head of AI/ML at Yudiz Solutions, Deeksha Devendra, Co-founder of Virtual Slaps, and Jyoti Sudhir, Co-founder and Chief Strategist of InventIndia, to share their perspectives on the implications of AI on the job market and organisations. Kumar Manish, Co-founder ReDi, moderated the discussion.
The ReDi Digital Dialogue witnessed active participation from communication specialists, academicians, social media experts, brands, marketing professionals, influencers, social media marketers, students, and other attendees.
The event provided an invaluable platform for industry experts, thought leaders and stakeholders to discuss the responsible use of AI and its impact on society. With 100+ speakers, 2,500+ participants, and over 20 million digital impressions, in the first 10 editions of the Digital Dialogue, ReDi remains committed to promoting digital literacy and responsible digital behaviour to ensure a positive and inclusive digital future.
30, Jun 2023
Dfns Announces Hire of Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Business Development and Sales
New York, NY, June 30, 2023 – Dfns, wallet infrastructure and security firm for Web3, announced the appointment of its new Chief Technology Officer, Noah Cornwell, and Vice President of Business Development and Sales, John Conneely, to guide the continued expansion of the company.
Chief Technology Officer Noah Cornwell joins Dfns following nearly seven years at cryptocurrency exchange and custodian Gemini, where he served as Vice President of Engineering. Cornwell’s financial technology expertise includes positions with MIK Fund Services and Boston Technologies Inc. As Dfns develops new wallet-as-a-service solutions for B2B and B2B2C organizations, Cornwell’s in-depth understanding of enterprise organizations’ fintech priorities will significantly aid the company’s strategic developments.
“Dfns is transforming the digital world as we know it by leveraging the potential of decentralized technologies,” said Cornwell. “I look forward to driving technology strategy, inspiring innovation, and leading a remarkable team dedicated to making it safe and simple for developers to build and launch compliance friendly wallet infrastructure products.”
John Conneely brings five years of experience steering the growth of institutional custody offerings at leading blockchain and cryptocurrency firms including Genesis and Bakkt. John will enable the successful continuation and expansion of Dfns’ partnerships as he leads new business and sales initiatives. Conneely serves as a pivotal leader for Dfns’ work to address misconceptions such as the commonly held sentiment of “not your keys, not your crypto,” and provide necessary education surrounding cryptocurrency wallet custodianship. John will be instrumental in developing partnerships for Dfns, aiming to grow our perpetually growing list of clients.
“Digital asset wallets have evolved significantly over the past 6 years, however there are still significant gaps that need to be addressed if as an industry we look to on board the next billion plus crypto users,” said Conneely. “Dfns, with its industry leading MPC technology as well as innovative and programmable APIs, are laser focused in helping banks, NFT platforms, neobanks and more, in abstracting away all the complexities of key management so that our clients can focus on what matters most, user experience.”
“We are thrilled to announce Noah as our new CTO and John as our global Vice President of Business Development and Sales,” said Clarisse Hagège, CEO of Dfns. “Noah and John have impressive careers with proven track records of strong leadership, dedicating their expertise to the growth of innovative businesses leading the blockchain industry. Bringing Noah and John to the Dfns team will allow us to continue offering new user and developer-friendly solutions without sacrificing wallet security.”
The announcement follows significant developments from the firm in recent months, including Dfns’ partnership with Cryptosat to launch the first-ever Space Wallet, and the introduction of its self-custodial wallet-as-a-service solution which leverages biometric technology for secure, user-friendly wallet management. Dfns is continuing to expand its network of integrated blockchains, clients leveraging its secure wallet-as-a-service APIs, and solutions offered in its mission to provide maximum security through seedless wallets.
30, Jun 2023
APAI Pre-Counselling Fair 2023 Opens its door, Paving the Way for Engineering and Technical Education Advancements in West Bengal
Kolkata, 30th June 2023: Association of Professional Academic Institutions, West Bengal (APAI) inaugurated its three-day long Pre-Counselling for e-Admission in Engineering & Technical Education – ‘ APAI Pre-Counselling Fair 2023’ on 30th June, 2023 at Netaji Indoor Stadium. The inaugural event was graced by Janab Firhad Hakim, Hon’ble Mayor of Kolkata Municipal Corporation, Babul Supriyo, MIC, Electronics & Information Technology, Government of West Bengal, Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, Minister for Agriculture, Government of West Bengal, Purnendu Basu, Chairperson, West Bengal State Council of Technical & Vocational Education, S. M. Ejaz Ahmed, Director, BOPT, Ministry of Education, Govt. of India, Prof. Indranil Mukherjee, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, MAKAUT, Government of West Bengal, Dr. Malayendu Saha, Chairman, WBJEEB, Prof. Sonali Chakravarti Banerjee, Vice- Chairman, WBJEEB along with Satyam Roychowdhury, General Secretary APAI, West Bengal, Taranjit Singh, President APAI, West Bengal and Alok Tibrewal, Treasurer APAI, West Bengal.
The Pre-Counselling fair, with its comprehensive approach and unwavering commitment to excellence, serves as a stepping stone for ambitious students in West Bengal, enabling them to embark on a path of success and contribute significantly to the development and progress of the nation. The initiative has garnered support and recognition from esteemed organizations such as the Higher Education Department of the Government of West Bengal, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology, West Bengal, and the West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination (WBJEE). Their endorsement underscores the credibility and importance of this exposition. By bringing together renowned academic institutions, industry experts, and professionals, the fair serves as a platform for aspiring students to explore various educational opportunities and make informed decisions about their career paths. Additionally, the fair provides a unique opportunity for students to connect with representatives from various academic institutions, inquire about admission procedures, curriculum offerings, and explore scholarship opportunities. This direct engagement allows aspiring students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the available options and make well-informed choices regarding their educational journey.
Janab Firhad Hakim, Hon’ble Mayor of Kolkata Municipal Corporation said, “During my school days, a joint entrance examination was conducted, but the resulting list contained only a handful of names. Consequently, we all pursued college studies in subjects for which we had no alternative options. However, the contemporary landscape has evolved significantly, and credit is due to the private sector and the Joint Entrance Council for paving the way for diverse opportunities. The advent of a well-organized sector has set specific targets in motion. Consequently, I earnestly implore students and their parents to attend this pre-counseling session to determine the most suitable subjects for their future endeavors. Indeed, every student requires guidance and counseling in their life journey. The current scenario offers a plethora of subject choices, rendering the pursuit of a single subject futile. Notably, West Bengal now boasts numerous emerging prospects, such as the burgeoning Silicon Valley and the establishment of a data hub. Moreover, the presence of a TCS campus, accommodating up to 50 thousand professionals, further amplifies the possibilities. To all, I would emphasize the importance of steadfastly maintaining one’s goals and forging ahead with determination.”
Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, Minister for Agriculture, Government of West Bengal said, “Gratitude is extended to APAI for orchestrating this commendable pre-counseling session, facilitating invaluable guidance to students on charting their trajectory towards a prosperous future. For those fortunate enough to partake in this initiative, the prospects of advancing on a path replete with opportunities are significantly enhanced. With optimism, it is anticipated that the continuity of such endeavors will prove to be both expedient and propitious.”
Dr. Malayendu Saha, Chairman, WBJEEB, said, “This year’s joint entrance examination had 124,000 registrations and 101,000 students who took the exam, resulting in over 97,000 students receiving rankings. Preparations are underway for the allotment or e-counseling process, with the timing being a primary concern. Once we receive the seat matrix from the Director of Technical Education Higher Education, counseling can start within five days, as the Joint Entrance Board has completed its procedures. This year’s counseling will have three rounds and new features. A designated time interval between choice filling and choice locking allows students to review a mock allotment of their likely seat. Students can modify their choices in the first round if they are dissatisfied with their allocated subject. This flexibility benefits students, who can then participate in the upgradation round and the mop-up round. Both registered and non-registered students can participate in counseling, with notifications in Bengali and English emphasizing the need to read and understand the provided information. Students are encouraged to maximize their choices and stay updated on the joint entrance website. Increasing the number of engineering students is expected to contribute to the overall development of the state and the country.”
Taranjit Singh, President, APAI, West Bengal said, “We are thrilled to inaugurate the APAI Pre-Counselling Fair 2023, which symbolizes our collective dedication to nurturing the talents of young individuals who aspire to excel in the fields of engineering and technical education. Through this fair, we strive to provide an immersive and enlightening experience for students, connecting them with reputable academic institutions and facilitating meaningful discussions with experts.”
Satyam Roychowdhury, General Secretary, APAI, West Bengal commented on the event and said, “APAI Pre-Counselling Fair marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities for aspiring students in West Bengal. By bringing together distinguished academic institutions, industry experts, and professionals, we aim to empower students to make well-informed decisions about their educational journey. We tried to make this fair a platform for the students to explore a multitude of possibilities and gain valuable insights into the world of engineering and technical studies.”
29, Jun 2023
Histria Books Announces the Release of The Death Tax by S.A. Hogan
Histria Books is thrilled to unveil the paperback and eBook editions of “The Death Tax” by S.A. Hogan. Published by Addison & Highsmith Publishers, an imprint of Histria Books renowned for exceptional works of fiction. This captivating novel is set to intrigue readers with its unique blend of suspense, mystery, and thought-provoking themes.
In “The Death Tax,” a small Missouri town becomes gripped by an eerie phenomenon every April 15th. Mysteriously, millions of hummingbirds descend upon Lake Tanaka, leaving behind a trail of fatalities that escalates with each passing year. Dr. Kevin Cousey, once a man with boundless potential, finds himself grappling with the aftermath of a life-altering incident two decades ago—an incident that cost him his career, his family, and nearly his life. Searching for purpose, he becomes fixated on the annual deadly hummingbird attacks and teams up with Paul Mahr, the editor of a local newspaper who shares his belief in a pattern underlying the disturbing events. Together, they uncover a tapestry of enigmatic clues, including a passionate thirteen-year-old French exchange student with an affinity for hummingbirds, a Navy diver-turned-corporate millionaire with a shadowy past, and the enigmatic figure of the patron saint of birds.
The Death Tax is an enthralling fusion of Hitchcock’s The Birds with a purpose, Nabokov’s Lolita in its darkest incarnation, and a compelling murder mystery. As the story unfolds, it fearlessly explores complex themes such as pedophilia, social apathy, intolerance, and religious hypocrisy. It also serves as a celebration of nature, offering a balance between the macabre and the beautiful. Author S.A. Hogan brings a wealth of experience to the narrative, having spent four years as a Christian lay missionary in Ghana and over seven years as an English instructor and curriculum developer in Thailand.
With 264 pages of gripping storytelling, The Death Tax (ISBN 978-1-59211-286-9) is available in paperback and eBook formats. Readers can find it at HistriaBooks.com and all major book retailers. Histria Books distributes titles published under its various imprints worldwide through the Independent Publishers Group. For more information on publishing with Histria Books, please visit HistriaBooks.com or contact us at info@histriabooks.com.
Histria Books
7181 N. Hualapai Way, Suite 130-86, Las Vegas, NV 89166 USA
(561) 299-0802
29, Jun 2023
New Age Universities should Foster New Age Learning Environment -Experts at Amity University Haryana
Atwo-week online refresher course on Digital Skills and Competencies for University Teachers: With a Special Focus on MOOC’s and E-Content Development jointly organized by Amity University Haryana and Association of Indian Universities, Academic and Administrative Development Centre in collaboration with Academic Staff College, Amity University Haryana to equip teachers with the 21st-century digital skills necessary to design, develop, and deliver MOOCs effectively so that they should be at par with national and international standards and have the ability to think critically and creatively, to collaborate with others, to clearly and effectively communicate with students. The program was held successfully from June 09-22, 2023.
The course attracted a significant number of registered participants, including deans, heads of institutions, faculty members, and a total of 146 participants from various universities, institutes, and colleges in both India and abroad
The program commenced with opening remarks by Prof Sanjna Vij, Deputy Director, Academic Staff College, Amity University Haryana and Chief organiser of the Program. In her remarks, Prof Sanjna Vij emphasized that in today’s rapidly changing world, digital skills have become essential in our daily lives. As educators, it is crucial for teachers to stay updated and equipped with the necessary tools and competencies to effectively navigate digital landscapes. Highlighting the importance of embracing digital skills, Prof Vij quoted, “Illiterates of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” This quote serves as a reminder to teachers that embracing digital skills and technology is not a one-time effort but an ongoing process of learning, unlearning outdated practices, and relearning new ones.
Delivering the Keynote address, Prof. P.B. Sharma, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Amity University Haryana, emphasized on creating a new age learning environment within Indian universities. Prof Sharma highlighted the significance of events like this and stressed the need for utmost seriousness. Prof Sharma stated that such gatherings signify the eagerness and determination of the teaching community to prepare for the challenges ahead, particularly in the digital age. In this new age, it is crucial to actively contribute towards establishing an educational environment that maximizes the potential of digital tools and technologies in the realm of teaching and learning. Prof. Sharma underlined the need for teachers to foster an environment that supports three key attributes: innovation, collaboration, and enterprising approach. By embracing these attributes, teachers can create a dynamic and effective learning environment that prepares students for the challenges of the digital age. Prof Sharma also stated the importance of generating new applied knowledge and expressed delight in having esteemed resource persons present during the course
The Chief Guest, Prof. S.N. Sridhara, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Chennai in his presentation titled “Revolutionising Education: The MOOCs,” provided a comprehensive overview of MOOCs. Prof Sridhara delved into the history of MOOCs, distinguishing between cMOOCs and xMOOCs. Furthermore, he discussed the development of MOOC companies in the United States, such as Udacity, Coursera, and edX, as well as those in Asia, including SWAYAM, NPTEL, and JMOOC, and Europe’s FutureLearn, EduOPen, and MOOC.fi.Prof. S.N. Sridhara also highlighted the success story of SWAYAM MOOCs and elucidated the requirements for creating MOOCs. He elaborated on the four quadrants of LMS, which encompassed aspects such as synchronous and asynchronous engagement, E-content, AI-assisted assessment, and peer learning. Additionally, he addressed the issue of attrition in MOOCs and provided insights into the underlying reasons for it.
Prof Vikas Madhukar, Pro-Vice Chancellor, AUH during his address emphasized the need for modern educators to stay aligned with new technological advancements. Prof Madhukar mentioned the importance of incorporating the National Education Policy (NEP) into the academic curriculum. The NEP places particular emphasis on the SWAYAM MOOCs platform, which was created by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) in 2016. This platform provides Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) that can benefit both teachers and students by offering flexible and accessible learning opportunities. By incorporating the NEP and leveraging platforms like SWAYAM, educators can enhance their digital skills and competencies, as well as develop e-content that aligns with the changing educational landscape. Prof. Madhukar emphasized that by embracing these technologies and platforms, educators can create engaging learning experiences and cater to the diverse needs of students in the digital age.
Dr. B. Shadrach, Director, Commonwealth Educational Media Centre for Asia, Commonwealth of Learning, New Delhi, emphasized the significance of understanding the learners and their individual learning styles for educators. During the presentation, Dr. Shadrach discussed the importance of teachers understanding the theoretical grounding of their teaching practices as well as their practical orientation. By having a strong theoretical foundation, teachers can design and deliver effective digital learning experiences for their students. Additionally, understanding the practical aspects of teaching allows teachers to align their digital skills and competencies with the needs of their students.
Dr.BrijuThankachan, Executive Director, Educational Technology Society of India& Ex-Visiting Faculty, Educational Technology, IIT Bombay touched upon the paradigm shift in the education system and introduced the concept of the information age paradigm, which highlights the changing role of teachers from being mere information providers to becoming facilitators of information. Dr.Thankachanalso emphasized that in the information age, teachers are no longer the sole repositories of knowledge. Instead, they play a crucial role in guiding students in accessing and critically analysing information. The focus has shifted towards developing skills such as digital literacy, information evaluation, and problem-solving.
Dr.AmrendraPani, Joint Director & Head, Research Division, Association of Indian Universities, Delhi during his address emphasized the importance of AIU’s objective to modernize digital education through the introduction of online activities for teachers, such as teaching, learning, and integrating technology into the research and revolution process of teaching and learning.
During the two-week event, excellent and fruitful deliberations were shared by esteemed speakers from various domains included – Jake Olivier, Adviser: Higher Education at the Commonwealth of Learning, Burnaby, Canada, Dr. Fawzi Baroud, Chairholder, UNESCO Chair on Open Educational Resources (OER) for Access and Success, Assistant Vice President for Information Technology, Notre Dame University -Louaize (NDU), Lebanon, Dr Md Shuhel Miah, Deputy Dean, Brittany University, Malaysia, Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Pro-Vice Chancellor, IGNOU, Prof Sameer Sahasrabudhe, Professor of Practice (Design), IIT Gandhinagar, Prof B.S. Balaji, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Prof Ramesh C. Sharma, Associate Professor, School of Global Affairs, Director, Human Resource Development Centre, Dr B.R. Ambedkar University, Delhi, Ms. Subha Das Mollick, Independent filmmaker, visiting faculty Aliah University and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology, Prof Manas Ranjan Panigrahi, Director, Symbiosis Centre for Online Learning (SCOL), Symbiosis Skills and Professional University, Pune, Prof. Kushal Sen, Indian Institute of Technology Department of Textile Technology Hauz Khas, New Delhi and many more esteemed speakers during the event contribute to the overall objectives of the NEP-2020, fostering a culture of lifelong learning, professional growth, and effective pedagogy among teachers.
Overall, the two weeks of the refresher course were filled with a wealth of information, wisdom, fresh perspectives, and cherished memories.
Maj Gen (Dr) J.S.Dhull, VSM (Retd), Director, Amity Institute of Defence Technology & Deputy Director, ASET, AUH delivered Vote of Thanksexpressing gratitude to all the dignitaries, organisers, and participants.
29, Jun 2023
Racing into Thrills: Unveiling the Thriving Go Karting Culture in India
By Prasuk Jain, Managing Director, Snow World Entertainment
India has witnessed a remarkable surge in the popularity of adventure sports, and go-karting has emerged as a favorite among thrill-seekers and motorsport enthusiasts. Go-karting originated in the United States and gradually made its way to India, initially limited to exclusive clubs. However, visionary entrepreneurs recognized its potential and established dedicated tracks across the country, revolutionizing the motorsport landscape.
One of the driving forces behind go-karting’s popularity in India is its accessibility. Unlike other motorsports, go-karting offers an affordable entry point for enthusiasts of all ages. It provides an exhilarating experience for everyone, from children to adults, making it inclusive and exciting.
The phenomenal growth of go-karting tracks across India bears testament to the sport’s escalating popularity. Major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata now boast world-class go-karting facilities that entice both novice racers and seasoned professionals. These tracks boast meticulously designed circuits, state-of-the-art karts, and stringent safety measures, ensuring an electrifying, secure racing experience. Moreover, many go-karting venues offer tailored packages for corporate events, team-building exercises, and even unforgettable birthday parties, further expanding the reach of the sport and transforming it into a social phenomenon.
Go-karting in India has evolved into a fertile breeding ground for budding motorsport talents. Realizing the immense potential of young racers, various karting championships and specialized academies have emerged, dedicated to identifying and nurturing promising talents. The remarkable success stories of Indian go-karting champions transitioning to international motorsport events have fuelled the aspirations of aspiring racers, inspiring a new generation to pursue their dreams on the track.
As the sport gains popularity, the competitive scene in India thrives. Karting championships and leagues provide a platform for racers to showcase their skills and compete against their peers, attracting a growing fan base and media attention.
The escalating popularity of go-karting in India reflects the nation’s appetite for adventure, speed, and motorsport excellence. With dedicated tracks and a democratized approach, go-karting has become a cherished and thrilling adventure sport across the country. As the industry continues to evolve, India’s go-karting culture is set to reach unprecedented heights, producing talented racers and captivating audiences with its adrenaline-fueled excitement.
29, Jun 2023
Six top IHCL Hotels in Chennai win top honours at the IIHM-IHC London International Hospitality Day Awards 2023
Chennai – June 29, 2023: Top 6 IHCL Hotels in Chennai have been recognised at the 8th International Hospitality Day, organised by the International Hospitality Council (IHC) London, in association with the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM). The hotels have been recognised with ‘Top Hospitality Honours’ for their outstanding contributions in the hospitality industry as they have truly become a landmark for hospitality in the city – Taj Coromandel, Taj Connemara, Taj Club House, Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa, Taj Wellington Mews and Vivanta Chennai-IT Expressway.
Individual Leadership Awards were conferred to Mr.Ian Dubier, GM, Taj Connemara; Mr. Ranjit Shankar, GM, Taj Club House; and Mr. Sumit Singh Deol, Hotel Manager, Taj Coromandel – for their exceptional contribution to the field of hospitality. As extremely passionate, dedicated and committed hoteliers, they have been creating new milestones for their hotels in the city.
Chennai with its rapidly evolving charisma as one of the country’s most discerning destinations for luxury experiences, got its first luxury address in 1974 with Taj Coromandel and the brand continues to be the custodian of fine living and hospitality over five decades. A quintessential landmark of this vibrant city, Taj Connemara has epitomised colonial brilliance through the centuries, from the ‘Imperial’ 1854 to Taj Connemara in 1984and continues to stand tall as part of Chennai’s glorious history. Built on the ramparts of an old Dutch Fort, Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort& Spa is today a proud host to an eclectic mix of global travellers seeking most-unique and luxurious experiences. Taj Club House offers a modish retreat for business and leisure travellers and is truly an expression of contemporary styling. Taj Wellington Mews, a new luxury address in the IT Corridor of Chennai, is the first luxury service residence hotel in all of South Asia managed by an all-women team. Offering guests contemporary and refreshing hospitality, Vivanta Chennai-IT Expressway, located within close proximity to the East Coast Road, is well equipped to cater to both leisure and business travellers.
Two iconic restaurants, Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel and Beyond Indus at Taj Club House bagged honours in the Restaurants Category. Award-winning Southern Spice, the South Indian specialty restaurant, is truly a culinary destination for food connoisseurs and gourmands from across the world, while Beyond Indus serves an exotic fare from the Indus river provinces of Punjab, Rawalpindi and Sindh.
The 8th International Hospitality Day also recognised the best and brightest in the hospitality industry and six associates across the Hotels in Chennai were the proud recipients:
Jasmin Siddiqui, Guest Relations Manager, Taj Coromandel
Pavitra JS, Deputy Engineer, Taj Wellington Mews
Yusuf Kadar Khan. Duty Manager, Taj Club House
Saravana Kumar G, Restaurant Manager, Vivanta Chennai, IT Expressway
Kannan S, Guest Service Coordinator, Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa
A Stephen, Catering Assistant, Taj Connemara
International Hospitality Day Awards, organised by International Hospitality Council(IHC) London,in association with the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), a leading hospitality education institute headquartered in India, celebrates the heroes of the hospitality industry who have contributed immensely through their hard work, innovation and ideas.
