Author: Rabindra

The Impact of HIV/AIDS and STIs on Fertility: What Indian Couples Need to Know

By-Dr Sandhya Mishra, Consultant – Reproductive Medicine & Gynecologist, Milann Fertility Centre, Indiranagar, Bengaluru

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reproductive tract infections (RTIs) are major global health issues, impacting quality of life, causing infertility, cancers, and pregnancy complications, and playing a key role in HIV transmission.

Infertility affects one in six people globally, impacting about 15% of couples, or 48.5 million couples worldwide. Men account for 50% of all infertility cases, with 20-30% being solely male-related. This profound issue affects millions of people of reproductive age, along with their families and communities. According to the WHO, 48 million couples and 186 million individuals globally struggle with infertility. In India, a diverse nation, the impact of STIs and HIV/AIDS on fertility is a critical issue that demands urgent attention.

Understanding HIV/AIDS and its Symptoms

HIV weakens the body’s defenses by targeting CD4 cells in the immune system. If left untreated, it can be transmitted through blood, unprotected sex, or mother-to-child. It can also result in AIDS.

HIV affects fertility in both men and women through biological and psychosocial factors. In men, HIV can impair sperm quality, and motility, and decrease testosterone levels, making conception difficult. Women with HIV may experience irregular menstrual cycles, reduced egg quality, and lower birth rates. Additionally, HIV can lead to conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), damaging the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus. Psychosocial factors, such as fear, stress, and stigma, can further impact fertility and the decision to have children.

HIV starts with flu-like symptoms weeks after exposure, may then remain asymptomatic while weakening the immune system, and progresses to AIDS with severe symptoms like weight loss, persistent fever, and frequent infections.

STIs and Their Impact on Fertility

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are prominent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that significantly contribute to infertility in both men and women. Chlamydia, for example, can inflict severe damage on reproductive organs, leading to blocked fallopian tubes in women and reduced sperm production in men. If left untreated, these infections can progress to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), impacting 10–20% of Indian women with untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea.

Symptoms of Common STIs

Chlamydia: Often no symptoms, but can include abnormal discharge, burning during urination, and pelvic pain.

Gonorrhea: Painful urination, abnormal discharge, and pelvic pain.

Syphilis: Sores at the injection site, skin rashes, and mucous membrane lesions.

Herpes: Painful blisters or sores, itching, and discomfort.

HPV: Often no symptoms but can cause genital warts and increase cancer risk.

Trichomoniasis: Itching, discharge, and discomfort in the genital area.

Treatments for HIV/AIDS

Testing and Minimizing Risk: Before treatment, an HIV viral load test and CD4 count assess infection levels and immunity. To reduce infection risk, antiretroviral drugs, neonatal prophylaxis, elective Caesarean delivery, and avoiding breastfeeding are used during pregnancy.

Antiretroviral Therapy and Fertility Management: ART manages HIV, supports healthy living, and reduces transmission risk. For HIV-positive women, ART with fertility treatments can lead to a healthy pregnancy, with medication to minimize infection risk to the child.

For HIV-positive men, sperm is washed to separate motile sperm and tested for HIV RNA before insemination. A dedicated area for HIV-positive couples during ART treatments helps prevent contamination, though the risk is very low.

Assisted Reproduction and Medical Advancements: Assisted reproduction methods like IUI, IVF, and ICSI offer safe fertility solutions for couples with one HIV-positive partner, thanks to advancements in medical care.

Treatments for STIs

Diagnosis involves reviewing history and symptoms and conducting urine, blood, or swab tests. Treatments include antibiotics for bacterial STIs, antivirals for viral STIs, and antifungals for fungal STIs. Follow-up includes re-testing and notifying partners to prevent reinfection.

Prevention Strategies for STIs and HIV/AIDS

1. Safe Practices: Consistent condom use during sexual activity significantly reduces the risk of HIV and STIs.

2. Regular Screenings: Routine check-ups and screenings are vital for early detection and treatment of infections, particularly for couples planning to conceive.

3. Vaccinations: Vaccines such as the HPV vaccine can prevent specific STIs. The HPV vaccine is included in India’s national immunization program to help lower cervical cancer rates.

4. Sexual Health Education: Providing education on safe sex practices and STI prevention helps individuals make informed decisions.

Counseling: Offering support and counseling addresses the psychological and emotional impacts of STIs.

HIMTEX, IPEC, and ECO Sustain Expo, three simultaneous expos inaugurated at Hitex

Hyderabad, August 16, 2024…. Hyderabad International Trade Expositions Ltd (HITEX) is organizing three expos HIMTEX, IPEC, and ECO Sustain Expo simultaneously at Hitex from August 16th to 19th. The three expos were formally inaugurated by several industrial and trade bodies leaders.

Some of those include Dr Shailendra Saroj, Chairman of the International Federation of electric vehicle Association (I-FEVA); Dr D.S. Setty, Chairman of Telangana and AP Chapter, Indian Institute of Plant Engineers, Raj Kumar Sharma, President of All India Council for Robotic & Automation; Ramesh Miyyapuram, President of Cheralpally Industrial Association-Phase 3; Dr Amiya Kumar Sahu, Chairman—TS & AP Chapter of National Solid Waste Association of India (NSWAI); A. Bhaskar Reddy, Federation of Telangana Small (MSME) Industries Associations and A. Praveen Reddy, President of Jeedimetla Industries Association.

The three expos are the 8th edition of the Hyderabad International Machine Tool & Engineering Expo (HIMTEX); India Process Expo & Conference (IPEC) and the Eco Sustain Expo. These events provide a platform for showcasing the latest innovations and developments in the manufacturing sector, offering opportunities for networking, collaboration, and growth.

In all, 450 exhibitors are showcasing their products and services. Nearly 20 innovators showcasing products and services in waste management for the manufacturing sector, informed Srikanth TG, Business Head of Hitex, the organiser of the tri expos.

Addressing a knowledge session on Contemporary Policies for E-Waste and Recycling Management & regulations, immediately after the inauguration, Dr Shailendra Saroj, said i-FEVA is India’s First Federation of Electric Vehicles and its non-profit organization to promote electric vehicles in India, research, development and deployment of electric vehicles. Battery recycling and second use is the untapped market in India.

He added that the India battery recycling market is valued at USD 1.97 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a strong CAGR of around 9.8% from now till 2030. He spoke on Government Policy on E-Waste, the responsibilities of manufacturers, producers, refurbishers, e-waste PPPs and others.

Speaking on the same subject Dr. Varghese Samuel, Co-founder of Matlabs Technologies, a research instrumentation solution-providing company said recycling of lithium-ion batteries in India is a huge opportunity and the size of it could be anywhere in the range of $1,000 million opportunity. The global demand for lithium-ion batteries is the critical pillar in a fossil fuel-free economy. Given the industry, size, and growth, there will be a huge demand in future for lithium-ion battery recycling, he said.

The EV battery reuse and recycle market is not yet economically viable. However, based on the trend of rising EV sales volumes, the global market is anticipated to become self-sustaining by 2030-35 with the establishment of a circular value chain he said.

By 2030, the market size for reuse and recycling is likely to reach 157 MWH (assuming that the first life of the battery is 10 years and the second life is five years), he said.

Speaking further he added currently India doesn’t have any uniform regulations governing lithium-based EV battery reuse and recycling. China, Europe, USA and Japan have clear regulations. In contrast, regulations for recycling are still under development in India, with the proposed policy providing incentives to set up recycling facilities and also making it mandatory for producers to collect used batteries.

It is a unified platform for manufacturing, said Sriaknth TG, Business Head of Hitex in his welcome address. India’s manufacturing sector has shown impressive growth with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) reaching a notable high.

Machine tools are the backbone and mother of the manufacturing sector. The sector is ripe with opportunities for innovation and development, driving the overall growth of the manufacturing

HIMTEX is an exceptional platform for exploring untapped opportunities in machine tools, engineering, robotics and automation while showcasing cutting-edge technological innovations.

He added that these expos are supported by the Government of Telangana and many industry bodies such as the SME Chamber of India, All India Association of Industries, Process Plant & Machinery Association of India, Ludhiana Machine Tool, National Solid Waste Association of India.

A show directory was released on the occasion.

From Formula One to Fiction: Dr. Ajay Mahajan’s Debut Thriller Gravity of a Promise Takes Readers on a Global Adventure

A High-Stakes Journey Through Family Bonds and International Intrigue

Dr. Ajay Mahajan, renowned scientist, professor, and entrepreneur, announces the release of his debut novel, Gravity of a Promise. This enthralling thriller combines the high-octane excitement of Formula One racing with a deeply personal journey spanning three continents.

Gravity of a Promise is a captivating tale that centers on Nikhil Nanda, a character inspired by Mahajan’s own experiences and life story. Set against a backdrop of international locales, the novel begins with a dramatic promise made by Nikhil to his dying father. Despite their fraught relationship, Nikhil is driven by this vow, setting off on a dangerous adventure that takes him from the glamorous world of Formula One racing to perilous encounters in Chicago, Florence, Montpellier, and Agra.

The novel’s title, Gravity of a Promise, encapsulates the weight and significance of Nikhil’s pledge. The narrative delves into themes of family honor, personal sacrifice, and the struggle to reconcile past conflicts. As Nikhil seeks to fulfill his father’s dying wish, he teams up with Tina Kohli, a talented and enigmatic colleague from his F1 days. Together, they uncover hidden secrets while evading a sinister antagonist determined to thwart their mission.

Mahajan’s inspiration for the book stemmed from his desire to share his personal journey with his daughters and capture a piece of his family’s history. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he expanded this personal story into a thrilling narrative, blending his experiences with a fictional edge. The novel offers readers an insider’s perspective on the exhilarating world of Formula One, as well as a compelling look at the history of India during and after Partition.

The writing process for Gravity of a Promise spanned over a decade. Mahajan faced the challenge of transitioning from technical writing to crafting an engaging fictional narrative. The initial draft was relatively straightforward, focusing on character development and biographical elements. However, transforming these elements into a gripping thriller with unexpected twists proved more complex. The final chapters were particularly challenging as Mahajan worked to weave together the intricate plot threads and deliver a surprising and satisfying conclusion.

The book’s settings are integral to its narrative, creating an immersive atmosphere for readers. Key scenes in New Orleans, Florence, and Montpellier bring to life the novel’s high-stakes action and emotional depth. The finale, set in Montpellier, stands out as a favorite among readers and showcases the culmination of Nikhil’s journey.

Dr. Mahajan’s first foray into fiction has been met with enthusiasm with readers and attendees of some of his book introductions in Delhi, Gurgaon and Pune. Over 250 copies have been sold in the first two months, and additional book events in India and the US promise to further highlight the novel’s global appeal and celebrate its success.

For aspiring authors, Dr. Mahajan offers a piece of advice: “Never give up. Starting is the hardest part, and the middle can be tough. But persistence will lead you to a fulfilling end.”

Gravity of a Promise is now available for purchase at major retailers and online platforms, e.g. Amazon, NotionPress and Flipkart. An Ebook version is available on Kindle, and an audio version, narrated by Dr. Mahajan himself, is available on Audible.

About the Author

Dr. Ajay Mahajan is a distinguished scientist, professor, and entrepreneur with a career spanning over three decades. Born in Birmingham, England, and raised in India, he has lived and worked across three continents. Mahajan holds advanced degrees in mechanical engineering from Tulane University and has authored over 150 technical papers. His diverse career includes roles at NASA, the US Department of Defense, and Formula One teams Renault F1 and Toyota F1. Gravity of a Promise is his first venture into fiction, blending his rich life experiences with a thrilling narrative.

About the Book

Gravity of a Promise is a high-octane thriller that delves into the life of Nikhil Nanda, who makes a solemn vow to his dying father. This promise thrusts him into a dangerous adventure across Chicago, New Orleans, Florence, Montpellier, and Agra. The novel combines personal history with a fast-paced plot, offering readers a glimpse into the glamorous world of Formula One racing and the complexities of family honor. With its blend of action, suspense, and international intrigue, Gravity of a Promise promises to captivate and engage readers worldwide.

Reimagining the Future: Hospitality Industry’s Phenomenal Growth in 2024 Fueled by Innovative Educational Programs

The hospitality industry showcased an impressive growth trajectory, surging from $4,390.59 billion in 2022 to $4,699.57 billion in 2023, boasting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0%. This significant expansion not only reflects the industry’s resilience but also highlights its remarkable ability to rebound from recent challenges. Amidst this growth, Vedatya launched International Career Pathway Program (ICPP) to play a vital role in shaping the future workforce of the hospitality sector, offering specialized training and practical experiences that align with the industry’s evolving needs.

 As the world gradually recovers from global disruptions, the hospitality sector’s substantial growth serves as a testament to its adaptability and strength. Educational initiatives like ICPP provide students with a unique opportunity to gain international exposure, develop industry-relevant skills, and forge strong partnerships in the global hospitality and culinary fields. This strategic focus on practical learning and international experiences positions graduates of programs like ICPP at the forefront of the industry’s growth and transformation.

 The ICPP curriculum, led by esteemed faculty members such as Mr. Sandeep Munjal, Chef Sanjay Sharma, and Ms. Anila Rattan, equips students with the knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in demanding global hospitality environments. By offering a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experiences, ICPP ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities presented by the dynamic hospitality industry. As the sector experiences rapid growth and evolution, programs like ICPP provide a pathway for students to excel and contribute meaningfully to the industry’s continued success.

DS Group Celebrates 95 Years with Heart-Warming Corporate Film

New Delhi, August 16th, 2024 – Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a multi-business corporation and a leading FMCG Conglomerate marks its 95th anniversary with the launch of a heart-warming corporate film. Founded in 1929, the DS Group has grown into a successful business story, blending a remarkable history and legacy with visionary growth. The film pays tribute to the enduring bond with consumers, capturing the essence of the Group’s diverse product portfolio, which spans food and beverages, confectionery, mouth fresheners, hospitality, agri-business, luxury retail, etc.

Directed and produced by The Titus Upputuru Company, the film features renowned Bollywood actor ‘Rahul Khanna’. The film opens with him walking along a long corridor, speaking directly to the camera, “Aapka aur hamara bahut hee lamba aur kareebi Rishta hai” (Our relationship has been long and intimate). This sets the tone for a series of heartwarming moments that showcase the deep connection DS Group’s products have fostered with consumers over the decades.

“We are thrilled to celebrate DS Group’s remarkable 95-year journey with this special film. Our unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has led to building a Group which is a house of brands today. This film is a heartfelt tribute to millions of loyal DS Group customers, reflecting countless shared moments and embodying our philosophy: Create What is Worth Creating,” said Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, DS Group.

“Creating yet another corporate film this year was a heartfelt journey, as we captured the deep connections and cherished moments that DS Group’s products have fostered with consumers over the years. Each scene is a celebration of the joy, comfort, and nostalgia that these products bring into people’s lives. It is an honour to bring to life the story of a brand that has touched so many hearts and continues to innovate with unwavering dedication,” said Titus on the film.

In a series of beautifully crafted vignettes, the film presents various scenarios where DS Group’s products bring joy to people’s lives. For instance, a group of youngsters in a library, where a boy’s hidden Pulse candy sparks a playful commotion. A young man is seen cooking with Catch Garam Masala, sharing a tender moment with his mother via video call.

Celebratory moments include a classy wedding scene where a man enjoys Tulsi Royal Khajoor, and a playful serenade where a boy refreshes with Pass Pass after being teased by a girl. Other scenes feature a lady in a limousine enjoying Silver Pearls before helping a stranger, a young man savoring Ksheer ghee on a parantha after a gym session, and a woman waking up to a surprise gift of LuvIt Chocolates with a birthday message.

Rahul Khanna’s voice-over enriches each scene, highlighting the joy brought by the individual brands. The film concludes with Khanna reminding viewers, “Agli baar jab aap ko koi cheez pasand aajaye, toh aap use palat ke dekhiyega…Zaroor hamara naam dikh jaayega.” (Next time when you enjoy something, make sure you take a look at the back of the pack. You will find our name there).

Canadian International School Celebrates Independence Day with Students and Staff from Over 40 Nationalities

Bangalore, August 16,2024: Canadian International School (CIS) celebrated India’s 78th Independence Day with a vibrant, patriotic event that highlighted the school’s diverse community, comprising students and staff from over 40 nationalities. The day was marked by a series of performances, a flag hoisting ceremony and inspiring speeches that resonated with India’s spirit of unity and freedom.

The celebration kicked off with students from Grade 1 to 12 from diverse cultural backgrounds showcasing a series of patriotic dances and songs. These performances exemplified the unity in diversity that is at the heart of CIS.

Following the performances, the Indian tricolour was hoisted with pride in the presence of students, parents, administrative staff and ground staff – symbolising the collective respect and love for the country.

“The Independence Day celebration at CIS is a beautiful melting pot where our diverse community, of over 40 nationalities, comes together to celebrate India’s independence in a truly humbling display of unity,” said Ms. Shweta Sastri, Managing Director, Canadian International School, Bangalore.

“Each year we, at CIS, are very thankful to be able to celebrate India’s Independence Day with our very diverse community members not only from all over the world, but also from all over India. The richness in diversity of India comes together in our wonderful celebration of India’s national identity and achievements over time. Happy Independence Day everybody!” added Dr. Ted Mockrish, Head of School, Canadian International School, Bangalore.

“CIS, being a culturally diverse school, had staff and students from different backgrounds and nationalities come together to celebrate Independence Day on campus. The flag hoisting was a moment I can’t describe in words – seeing people from all over the world with different nationalities and beliefs standing under and saluting one flag, the Indian flag,” said Qusai, Grade 11 student at CIS.

“Independence Day celebrations at CIS are all about celebrating each other. It’s a day that reflects the joy, respect, compassion, commitment, integrity and willingness that the diverse CIS community brings to campus everyday. As we proudly hoist our flag, we renew our commitment to value the opportunities of fostering beautiful bonds of friendship and learning something new about each other everyday,” said Ms. Lakshmi, Middle School Science Teacher at CIS.

TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship Aims to Equip 2 Million Youth with Apprenticeship Training by 2028

National 16th August 2024: TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, India’s largest privately-owned degree apprenticeship program from the house of TeamLease, is proud to reaffirm its commitment to advancing skill development and empowering the nation’s youth. Since its inception in 2014, the program has been at the forefront of bridging the skills gap in India, having trained over 1 million apprentices nationwide. With an innovative approach that seamlessly integrates theoretical learning with practical industry experience, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship has set a benchmark for effective skill development, ensuring apprentices are well-prepared for successful careers and equipped with both academic knowledge and hands-on experience.

On this World Youth Day, TeamLease emphasizes the strategic importance of skill development as India, home to the world’s largest youth population with over 808 million individuals under the age of 35, stands at a critical juncture. The need for a robust platform for dialogue and collaboration among young people, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions, firms, employers’ and workers’ organizations, policymakers, and development partners is paramount. Despite challenges highlighted by the National Economic Survey and the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2022-23—where only 51.25% of youth are deemed employable and 72.6% of individuals aged 15-59 lack vocational or technical training—India has made notable progress. Over the past decade, the employability of final-year and pre-final-year students has increased by 47%, reflecting advancements in skilling initiatives.

However, India still faces a significant gap in apprenticeship utilisation compared to developed countries like the UK, where apprenticeships constitute over 2% of the labour force, while in India, this figure stands at just 0.14%. This gap underscores the urgent need to prepare 30 million digitally skilled individuals and re-skill 50% of the current workforce—a transformation that could contribute an additional $570 billion to the economy by 2030. Over the past six years, more than 30 lakh apprentices have graduated from the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS), with over 1 million apprentices trained under both NAPS and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) in the last year alone. Despite these efforts, apprenticeships currently represent only 0.14% of India’s workforce, significantly below the 3-4% seen in developed economies. Bridging this gap requires a comprehensive approach that integrates skill-building, practical experience, industry collaboration, and degree-based apprenticeships. Scaling up apprenticeship programs to approximately 20 million participants, in line with international benchmarks, is imperative. These apprenticeships have the potential to be a driving force in India’s workforce development, contributing significantly to economic growth.

In response to this pressing need, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship is committed to equipping and skilling 2 million apprentices by 2028. By integrating academic learning with hands-on industry experience, we ensure that apprentices gain the knowledge and practical skills required to excel in today’s competitive job market. We aim to create a seamless connection between education and employment, preparing a more capable and job-ready workforce while driving substantial contributions to India’s economic growth.

Sharing his insights, Ramesh Alluri Reddy, CEO of TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, said, As India stands on the brink of a transformative decade, skilling our workforce is paramount to securing the nation’s future. With India poised to contribute 25% of the world’s incremental workforce by 2030 and with 60 to 80 million jobs at risk of disruption due to AI and automation, equipping our youth with the necessary skills is not just an opportunity but a national imperative. At TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, we are committed to this mission by setting an ambitious target to skill 2 million apprentices by 2028. Our programs—including white-collar apprenticeships, Hire-Train-Deploy (HTD) models, and degree apprenticeships—are designed to democratize education and skill development, ensuring that every young Indian can leapfrog into a successful career. Integrating apprenticeships with higher education, particularly through degree apprenticeships under the New Education Policy, is crucial for bridging the gap between academic learning and practical skills. Furthermore, creating schemes tailored for MSMEs and promoting adult apprenticeships for lifelong learning are essential to expanding the apprenticeship ecosystem. The impact extends beyond individual careers; businesses benefit from a 50% reduction in talent acquisition costs, a 20-25% increase in productivity, and a 25% decrease in attrition rates, resulting in a robust 3X return on investment. Our vision is aligned with the broader goal of building a skilled India where the immense potential of our youth drives sustainable economic growth. By investing in skill development, we are preparing our workforce for the future and ensuring that India leads in the global economy.”

With over a decade of operational excellence, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship has successfully placed over 1 million apprentices across more than 40 sectors and 150 job roles nationwide. Partnering with over 1,000 employers and reaching over 15,000 pin codes, our programs have had a far-reaching impact. Our impressive 98% transition rate of apprentices into full-time employment, with 40% retained within the same organisation, highlights the effectiveness of our approach. By expanding our efforts to train 2 million apprentices, we are dedicated to addressing the skill deficit and creating more opportunities for the youth.

BIMTECH Spearheads in euro719 953 EU-Funded Project for Inclusive and Digitized Management Education

Mumbai, 16th August 2024: Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), a leading B-School in India, is ready to play a pivotal role in €719 953 EU-funded project- “AIDEdu”. This transformative initiative aims to establish Teaching and Learning Centre of Excellence for accessible, inclusive, and digitized management education in higher education institutes (HEIs) of India and Nepal.

Funded by the European Union under the ERASMUS-EDU-2023-CBHE program, this project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 10, and 17, focusing on quality education, reduced inequalities, and global partnerships. The alliance intends to achieve partnership goals of HEIs to be more internationally recognized and competitive. It envisions training programs for staff for better quality teaching in an inclusive environment and helps them adopt new learning methodologies like flipped classrooms, blended teaching, adaptive learning, and outcome-based learning.

Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director, BIMTECH sharing the significance of this partnership said, “We are honored to play a leading role in Project AIDEdu, which is set to revolutionize management education by leveraging modern ICT tools, hence, elevating our institutions to global standards. Our collaboration with esteemed European universities will not only modernize teaching practices but also foster inclusivity and quality education. This project underscores our commitment to preparing students with the skills and competencies needed to stay relevant in an interconnected and evolving world. The upcoming workshop in Alicante will be pivotal in exchanging knowledge and developing comprehensive activity plans for our Center of Excellence, ensuring that we achieve our goals of quality education and global partnerships.”

Within this 36-month-long project, BIMTECH will lead Work Package (WP) 3 and WP 5 for capacity building for Centers of Excellence and designing COEs for efficient implementation of a digital platform with innovative teaching and learning methods with respect to inclusive and technology-driven education respectively. BIMTECH will also lead the preparation of a Report on integrated SDG indicators of the project and on assessment of the implementation of best practices through a digital learning platform and its effect on SDGs aimed in the Project.

Under WP 5, BIMTECH will coordinate and participate in an 8-day workshop at the University of Alicante, Spain, and leading HEIs of Cartagena and Valencia focusing on pedagogy topics like flipped classrooms, outcome-based teaching, blended teaching, and case-based education for project coordinators from each AIDEdu partner institute. The workshop means to exchange knowledge on quality education and teaching practices between Indian, European and Nepali partners, resulting in detailed activity plans and work schedules for the Centers of Excellence at each partner institution.

Recently Dr. Himanshi Tiwari, Project Lead, BIMTECH and Dr. Shreya Mishra, Project team member, BIMTECH along with other partners from India and Nepal attended a Train the Trainer Workshop for the digital, inclusive and quality education at RIGA Technical University, Latvia and FH Johanneum Institute of Applied Science, Graz from June 17th to June 28th 2024.

Leaving its deep-rooted impact on future educational institutions, this project will bring these institutions up to international standards with modern ICT tools. The strategic collaboration will enhance the skills of technical, administrative, and managerial staff, modernizing teaching practices. Further, it will also improve teaching quality and inclusivity by training educators and promoting the exchange of best practices with European universities. VESIM, Mumbai, Project Coordinator, FH Johanneum Institute of Applied Science, Graz, Austria, University of Alicante, Spain, Riga Technical University, Riga, Kathmandu University and Global College International, Nepal are some of the other partners of the project. Updates in teaching methods, planning tools, and assessments will consequently create more opportunities for students, enabling the adoption of new approaches like micro-credentials and making educational achievements more comparable and visible. Hence, students will gain new skills in collaboration, team building, and project management. Another feather in the cap will be enhanced student exchanges with EU countries, fated to provide valuable international experiences, contributing to the project’s overall success.

“Innovative and digitized pedagogical tools and infrastructure can play a key role in making India’s higher education even more inclusive and accessible”, says Dr. Himanshi Tiwari (Project Lead BIMTECH), while having high aspirations from the Centers of Excellence for quality teaching and learning, as one of the key deliverables of the project.

Inspired by its founder late Basant Kumar Birla, BIMTECH pioneered innovative programs like PGDM, PGDM-International Business (IB), PGDM-Retail Management (RM), and PGDM-Insurance Business Management (IBM), nurturing individuals into global leaders. BIMTECH secures the 17th rank among the top private B-Schools in India, as per Business Today-MDRA Best B-Schools Ranking 2023. Also, BIMTECH is now AACSB accredited, joining the Ivy League of Top Globally Recognized B-Schools. Fostering a symbiotic relationship, the institute excels in management education, supported by its globally placed robust alumni network of over 7000 individuals.

HGS REPORTS Q1 FY2025 RESULTS

Mumbai, India, August 16, 2024: Hinduja Global Solutions (HGS or the Company) (listed on BSE & NSE) today announced its unaudited first quarter results for FY2025.

Financial Highlights for Q1 FY2025

HGS consolidated (including BPM and Digital Media businesses)

· Total income stood at Rs. 1,218.6 crore, a YoY dip of 2.3%.

· Revenue from operations decreased by 3.7% on YoY basis to Rs. 1,091.9 crore.

· Operating EBITDA was Rs. 16.7 crore; EBITDA margins for the quarter were 1.5%.

· Total PAT for the quarter, including discontinued operations, stood at Rs. 161.5 crore.

· As on June 30, 2024, Net Cash and Treasury Surplus stood at Rs. 5,177.2 crore.

Business Highlights for Q1 FY2025

· Cli

· Client wins in Q1 FY2025:

– Added 24 new logos for digital-enabled CX solutions and 9 for HRO/ Payroll Processing.

– Expanded our engagement with 50+ existing clients for HGS’ core CX and digital solutions (RPA, digital engagement, analytics, cloud and social care, etc.)

· Clientele: As of June 30, 2024, HGS had 344 active CX/ BPM clients and 806 HRO/Payroll processing clients/brands. Digital Media business (NXTDIGITAL) has a customer base of more than 6 million.

· Employee Headcount: 18,036 as of June 30, 2024.

· Geo Presence:

− As of June 30, 2024, HGS had presence in nine countries, including 32 global delivery centers.

− Digital Media business covers 4,500 pin codes covered in India, two lakh kilometers of owned + partner fibre networks, and 125+ owned-and-operated NXTHUBs set up across India.

· Awards & Recognition:

− Recognized as “Strong Contender” in Quadrant Solutions SPARK Matrix: CX Management Services, 2024.

− Recognized in the “The Booming 15 – Service & Technology Provider Standouts – APAC” in the ISG Index 1Q 2024 – Managed Services and As-a service Market Insights.

− Winner in the category of Best Use of Innovation to Enhance CX at 17th Customer Fest Leadership Awards.

− Winner in the category of Best Facial Recognition System at the 2024 AI Breakthrough Award.

− Winner in the category of Best Achievement in Operational Excellence Award at the 2024 Business Transformation & Operational Excellence Industry Awards.

− Won Gold in Sales & Customer Service in Contact Center Solution category at 2024 Stevie® Awards.

· Key Highlights from the Digital Media business:

− Launched the OneBusiness – Commercial Broadband project targeting a new market and business model of providing services to MSMEs & SOHOs. The main product in the portfolio is an ILL or Internet Leased Line for commercial establishments.

− OIL subsidiary completed majority acquisition (51%) of leading Mumbai-based ISP Seven Star’s broadband business; now christened as One7star. The new acquisition has helped in adding 100,000 broadband customers in high ARPU markets.

− Broadband and digital TV subscriber base continued to grow YoY at 14.9% and 6%, respectively, in Q1 FY2025.

Speaking on the results, Partha DeSarkar, Whole-time Director and Group CEO of HGS said: “HGS’ revenues in the first quarter of FY2025 were in line with our expectations, considering the environment of continued macro-economic volatility and delayed decision-making by some key clients. Profitability in the quarter was adversely impacted due to some one-time costs and we expect our profitability to improve from Q2 FY2025 onwards. During the quarter ended June 2025, we received additional payment towards the sale of the healthcare business resulting in net profit of Rs 218.5 crore shown under Profits from Discontinued Operations.

Our pipeline remains healthy, and we are enthused by the increasing demand for our technology-enabled CX services by both new and existing clients as evidenced by the number of new client engagements signed during FY2025, including larger cross-sell deals, across verticals such as telecom and public sector.

HGS is investing in developing tech offerings to support fast growing sectors like BFSI, retail & consumer, and hi-tech. Our aim is to help clients future-proof their businesses through digital transformation as AI becomes more mainstream.”

Commenting on the Digital Media division’s performance, Vynsley Fernandes, Whole-time Director of HGS and CEO, NXTDIGITAL said, “The media division took off from where it left last fiscal – driving revenues on the back of a strong customer growth year – in both, broadband & digital television. The focus on monetizing the customer growth is best seen in the revenues from operations, which have continued to grow in Q1. Our investment in premier ISP Seven Star, now christened One7star – has its growth plan firmly on track, expanding into key markets in Maharashtra.

After making inroads into the enterprise connectivity solutions segment with CelerityX last year, we’ve now entered the MSME & Small Office Home Office or SOHO space with OneBusiness – providing Internet Leased Lines to commercial establishments. Again, we’re leveraging our installed capacities and expansive network in key cities like Mumbai as a start – to provide just about every category of commercial establishment with dedicated quality connectivity and high reliability.

We’re also heartened to see the regulatory changes brought about by TRAI in July. These initiatives reflect the Government’s support for the content distribution sector, and we believe digital platforms like NXTDIGITAL will benefit, going forward.”

HGS continues to focus on driving synergies between the tech-led CX and digital media (NXTDIGITAL) verticals by collaborating on building new solutions and enhancing team productivity through automation, etc. Recently, HGS launched the co-developed NetX application that provides customers a unified network-as-a-service solution covering network management.

RHIM India achieves highest quarterly EBITDA margin of 18% since acquisitions

Mumbai, August 16th, 2024: RHI Magnesita India Limited, the leading manufacturer and supplier of high-grade refractory products, systems and solutions, has reported unaudited consolidated financial results for the quarter ended June 30th, 2024 (Q1 FY 2024-25). The Company registered 16% of EBITDA growth compared to the same quarter of the previous financial year, the company recorded Rs. 878 crores, as compared to Rs 928 crores to the same quarter of the previous financial year.

Parmod Sagar, MD & CEO of RHI Magnesita India Ltd. said, “We are pleased to report that we have delivered the highest margins since the completion of acquisitions over a year ago. We are advancing towards our strategic initiatives to increase our market share (iron-making, flow control), and achieve operational excellence & synergies. End-user industries have witnessed a slowdown due to cheaper imports and increase in raw material and freight prices have presented new challenges. We have successfully navigated this volatility by maintaining strong margins and achieving a sustainable and profitable growth.”

The Company remains steadfast in its conviction that GDP growth will require the refractory industry to act as a catalyst to support the vision of Viksit Bharat. As the market leader, RHIM India is well-positioned to capitalize on this opportunity. Looking ahead, the stability provided by the policy focus on infrastructure development reinforces the Company’s commitment to its strategic objectives including recycling for decarbonization and safety related initiatives.