Author: Rabindra

Visionary Goals Unveiled at AEC Forum 2024: Paving the Way for Resilient and Sustainable Infrastructure

Hyderabad, December 5, 2024 — The AEC Forum 2024commenced today in Hyderabad with a resounding call to action under the theme, ‘Advancing Resilient and Sustainable Infrastructure’. The event brings together global thought leaders, industry pioneers, and policymakers to address India’s critical infrastructure challenges, with a focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and resilience.

In his opening remarks, Sanjay Kumar, CEO of Geospatial World, underscored the urgent need for resilient infrastructure to combat the increasing frequency and severity of climate-induced disasters. Highlighting the impacts of cyclones and unprecedented floods, Kumar emphasized the importance of integrating advanced technologies such as Geospatial, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Digital Twin to revolutionize infrastructure planning and development.

“Resilience is not just an option but a necessity,” Kumar stated. He stressed that leveraging cutting-edge technologies throughout the lifecycle of infrastructure projects is key to mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring sustainable growth.

Nirmala Jagga Reddy, Chairman of the Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation, highlighted state-led initiatives under the leadership of Honorable Chief Minister Mr. Revanth Reddy Garu. She discussed the establishment of a sub-committee aimed at driving unprecedented industrial growth in Telangana, enhancing economic progress and employment opportunities.

Reddy also emphasized the significance of environmental sustainability, urging industries to proactively protect natural resources and secure a livable planet for future generations.

The opening plenary also featured a keynote address by David Tan, Assistant CEO of JTC Corporation, Singapore. He shared practical insights on harnessing technology for sustainable and resilient infrastructure, including:

• LiDAR platforms for construction monitoring and comparison.
• Open Digital Platforms (ODP) for seamless integration and management of construction tools.
• Robotics and real-time data, transforming efficiency and outcomes in construction.
• AI and machine learning, which are enhancing decision-making processes for smarter infrastructure.

 Eric DesRoche, Director of Infrastructure Business Strategy at AEC Design, Autodesk, echoed the call to embrace digital transformation. He highlighted the unprecedented global demand for construction, with 2.6 trillion square feet of new buildings required every month for the next 40 years, and $1.2 trillion allocated for transportation infrastructure in post-COVID recovery efforts.

However, he noted challenges such as workforce shortages, with 80% of firms reporting staffing gaps and over half declining projects due to limited resources.

DesRoche outlined the future of BIM as Outcome-Based BIM, driven by AI tools that enhance design processes by incorporating environmental factors like heat, wind, and cold. While optimistic about AI’s potential, he cautioned against over-reliance, emphasizing the need for accuracy to avoid costly errors.

The plenary set the tone for AEC Forum 2024, establishing a clear vision of leveraging collaboration, innovation, and sustainability to transform India’s infrastructure landscape.

Saurabh Rai – CEO Arahas Technologies said, “Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries hold the blueprint for India’s sustainable future. Climate change is not just a crisis; it’s a call for innovation. Urban heat islands, carbon-intensive construction, and inefficient energy use are challenges that demand bold, immediate action. By embracing renewable energy, sustainable building materials, and green urban planning, the AEC sector can turn India’s cities into beacons of resilience. India is the birthplace of zero—let it also be the birthplace of net-zero. The cost of inaction could displace millions and burden the economy by ₹85 trillion by 2050. This is the time for the AEC industry to lead the charge, rewrite the rules, and build not just structures, but hope for generations to come. The future is ours to design—sustainably”.

Smartphone Screen Flicker: A Silent Culprit Behind Headaches and Eye Pain for 90% of Users

If you experience headaches, eye strain, or even dizziness after using your smartphone, you probably suffer from Digital Eye Strain (DES). A 2022 study, Digital Eye Strain: A Comprehensive Review (1), by Indian researchers showed that DES has soared to 80–94% among adult users today, compared to 5–65% before the pandemic when extensive use of smartphones became commonplace.

Children, in particular, are gravely affected, as their developing eyes are more vulnerable to brightly-lit (blue light) screens and screen flicker. Another study titled Binocular Accommodation and Vergence Dysfunction in Children Attending Online Classes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Digital Eye Strain in Kids (DESK) Study-2 that looked specifically at DES among children (2) noted that nearly 65% of children who used smartphones for online classes during the Covid pandemic faced these issues. There is a growing understanding that the flickering of LEDs responsible for backlighting on a smartphone can cause headaches and eye strain when set to low brightness levels.

According to industry reports, this risk is also found to be high among pregnant women and individuals prone to epilepsy. Adding to the concern is asthenopia, or eye fatigue, characterised by aching eyes, difficulty focusing, and sensitivity to light.

Dr Venkateshwar Rao, a Pediatric Ophthalmologist, explains, “With the growing reliance on devices like smartphones and tablets, exposure to blue light has increased, raising concerns about its potential impact on eye health. Blue light and excessive screen time present specific risks for children, including the development of myopia, symptoms of digital eye strain such as dry eyes and blurred vision, and sleep disturbances. While blue light is not conclusively proven to cause permanent eye damage, responsible screen habits remain crucial for maintaining eye health, particularly for children.”

Low-frequency Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) in traditional smartphones—typically below 200Hz or even less than 500Hz—exacerbates these symptoms, with invisible flicker triggering migraines and, in severe cases, seizures. As screen time increases, so does the risk of DES, threatening eyesight and overall well-being for both children and adults. This is why it’s important to have a smartphone with high frequency PWM, as it significantly reduces flicker and minimizes eye strain, ensuring a more comfortable viewing experience.

Technology companies like OPPO are increasingly addressing health concerns alongside traditional priorities like productivity and entertainment. OPPO devices feature adaptive colour temperature adjustments based on environmental lighting. This means that the screen’s colour tone changes to match the surrounding light, ensuring that there is no stark contrast that could lead to visual discomfort.

The OPPO Find X8 features 2,160Hz high-frequency Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), significantly reducing screen flicker in low-brightness settings for a more eye-friendly experience. By minimising flicker, it helps mitigate eye strain, fatigue, and discomfort for sensitive users like children and pregnant women, ensuring visual comfort even during extended use. Research shows that displays with high frequencies, like 2,160Hz, are far more comfortable for people prone to headaches or migraines compared to traditional low-PWM displays.

“Here at OPPO, our vision is that technology should benefit mankind. We know it’s a long journey with constant fine-tuning. By integrating advanced features like high-frequency PWM dimming at 2160Hz in the OPPO Find X8 Series, we are improving performance, enhancing user well-being, reducing eye strain, and making the digital experience more comfortable” said Peter Dohyung Lee, Head of Product Strategy at OPPO.

International certifications are also focusing on user well-being by addressing issues like blue light and screen flicker, and OPPO has been proactive in this. The OPPO Find X8 is certified by TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort 4.0, meeting the stringent standards of the Rheinland laboratory. It is designed to reduce blue light emissions and screen flicker, known contributors to eye strain and potential long-term vision problems.

As AI features, powerful processors, and immersive displays take center stage, companies are increasingly prioritising wellness. Innovations like high-frequency PWM displays show that user health is becoming just as important as performance. So, if you’re reading this from a high-PWM rich display, congratulations—you’re already one step ahead in protecting your eyes while staying connected. With these advancements and mindful screen time, achieving a healthier balance with our devices has never been easier.

Zero Trust Revolutionizes MSSP Security, Offering Unparalleled Protection Against Cyber Threats

By- Harish Kumar GS, Head of Sales, India and SAARC, Check Point Software Technologies

As 2024 draws to a close, India’s digital landscape stands more advanced than ever. According to Check Point’s latest Threat Intelligence Report, organisations in the country face a daunting reality, with an average of 3,244 cyberattacks per week over the past six months, nearly double the global average of 1,657 attacks per organization. Due to its advanced development, traditional defense mechanisms have now become inadequate.

More advanced cyber threats now move laterally within networks with alarming ease, exploiting vulnerabilities that traditional perimeter defenses cannot fully address. The rise of remote work and increased mobility has dissolved the traditional network boundary, necessitating security measures that function effectively regardless of location. Simultaneously, the widespread adoption of cloud services has dispersed resources beyond the reach of conventional perimeter-based security, creating new challenges for data protection.

Moreover, the threat landscape is further complicated by:

• Insider risks, both malicious and accidental, which demand stricter access controls and continuous monitoring.
• High-profile breaches which have repeatedly exposed the limitations of conventional security models, underscoring the urgent need for a new approach.
• Regulatory compliance which has also evolved, now requiring stronger data protection, more granular access controls, and ongoing surveillance of data access and movement.
• The consumerization of IT and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies have introduced a host of new security risks as employees increasingly use personal devices for work-related tasks.

 A study by PRAHAR, a non-profit organization, predicts that cyberattacks on India will climb to an astonishing 1 trillion annually by 2033, potentially reaching 17 trillion by 2047 as the nation marks 100 years of independence. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for innovative security strategies. One such transformative approach is the Zero Trust framework, which redefines traditional security paradigms by operating on the core principle that no entity—internal or external—can be inherently trusted until thoroughly verified.

Zero Trust represents a complete paradigm shift from traditional security models, where trust was often granted implicitly, to a “never trust, always verify” mindset. By embracing Zero Trust, organizations acknowledge the universal danger posed by both external adversaries and internal vulnerabilities, ushering in a new era of fortified cyber security defenses. This approach demands continuous verification and authentication for all users, devices, and applications, providing a robust foundation for securing modern digital environments and enabling businesses to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.

Understanding Zero Trust: Zero Trust operates on two fundamental principles:

Elimination of Implicit Trust
Rather than relying on predefined trust boundaries, Zero Trust advocates for a model where trust is NEVER assumed and must be continuously verified. This revolutionary approach requires organizations to completely abandon the outdated notion of trusting entities based solely on their location within the network, thereby mitigating the risk of insider threats and lateral movement by attackers.

Continuous Verification of Access Requests
Zero Trust continuously verifies access requests, in real-time, irrespective of their source or destination. Additionally, its authentication and authorization processes dynamically adapt to contextual factors such as user identity, device posture, and behavior patterns. By implementing granular access controls and robust authentication mechanisms, Zero Trust ensures that only authorized entities gain entry to sensitive resources, reducing the attack surface and minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.

Introduction to Zero Trust Opportunities for MSSPs

Today’s Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) are often regarded as guardians of their clients’ digital assets, and as such, are entrusted with the task of fortifying client defenses against threats. The adoption of Zero Trust emerges as a golden opportunity for MSSPs to not only meet but exceed client cyber security expectations.

Here’s how:

A Proactive Technology Approach
By embracing the Zero Trust framework, and by harnessing a proactive approach to security, MSSPs can leverage state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies that equip their clients with cutting-edge, robust protection.

Taking on the Role of Trusted Cyber Security Advisor
Moreover, the Zero Trust approach enables MSSPs to expand their services way beyond the conventional roles of product sales and support. It provides them with a unique opportunity to assume the role of trusted cyber security advisors.

By offering comprehensive consulting services centered around Zero Trust implementation, MSSPs can both consult and guide their clients through the complexities of modern cyber security challenges, helping them build state-of-the-art, resilient security architectures individually tailored to business needs. Likewise, MSSPs can take their offerings to new heights, strengthen client relationships, and position themselves as indispensable partners in their clients’ journey towards achieving cyber security excellence.

Implementing a Zero Trust Approach

MSSPs are required to understand that implementing Zero Trust is not merely a technological endeavor but rather, a strategic imperative. To successfully navigate this transition, organizations must adhere to foundational principles that underpin the effective implementation of Zero Trust strategies.

According to Miercom, a renowned cyber security research firm, there are three indispensable pillars that form the bedrock of a successful Zero Trust implementation:

1. Centralized Management and Usability

Centralized management ensures consistency and efficiency in implementing and managing Zero Trust policies across the organization’s network infrastructure. By centralizing management functions, organizations can streamline policy enforcement, monitoring, and compliance, and by doing so, significantly enhance operational efficiency and reduce administrative overhead.

2. Hybrid Architecture

A hybrid architecture enables organizations to seamlessly integrate Zero Trust principles into their existing IT infrastructure, regardless of its deployment model—be it on-premises, in the cloud, or a combination of both. This flexibility allows organizations to adapt Zero Trust principles to their specific environment, ensuring consistent security posture across disparate systems and platforms.

3. Execution of Zero Trust Capabilities

Beyond conceptual frameworks, the successful implementation of Zero Trust hinges mainly on the organizations’ ability to translate theory into practice. This entails:

Deploying and configuring security technologies and solutions that enable continuous verification
Granular access controls
Real-time threat detection and response
By operationalizing Zero Trust capabilities, organizations can effectively mitigate cyber threats and bolster their resilience against emerging risks.

Check Point’s Zero Trust Solutions

Check Point stands at the forefront of cyber security innovation, offering comprehensive solutions that seamlessly integrate with Zero Trust principles to safeguard networks, cloud infrastructures, and mobile environments against a multitude of threats.

Leading in Zero-Trust: the Infinity platform

Check Point’s commitment to excellence is highlighted by its recognition as today’s leading Zero-Trust solution. This reputation is further substantiated by independent assessments, such as the recent evaluation by Miercom, which ranked Check Point’s Zero Trust Architecture on top of its Infinity Platform as the best solution in its class.

AI-Powered and Cloud-Delivered

At the heart of Check Point’s Zero Trust platform lies cutting-edge technology, powered by artificial intelligence and delivered via the cloud. This innovative approach enables organizations to harness the power of AI-driven threat detection and response, enhancing their ability to preemptively identify and neutralize emerging threats.

Moreover, Check Point’s cloud-delivered architecture ensures scalability, agility, and seamless integration, empowering organizations to adapt and evolve in response to evolving security challenges.

Single Pane of Glass Multi-Tenanted MSSP Portal

A distinguishing feature of Check Point’s Zero Trust solution is its user-friendly interface, accessible through a ‘single pane of glass’ multi-tenanted MSSP portal. This intuitive portal empowers MSSPs to implement Zero Trust principles and manage entire IT infrastructures – networks, cloud, IoT, endpoints and mobile – with a scalable, elastic, and cloud-based platform. By providing MSSPs with centralized visibility and control over their clients’ security postures, Check Point facilitates the seamless delivery of Zero Trust solutions, enabling MSSPs to significantly enhance their service offerings.

Building Blocks of Zero Trust with Check Point Solutions

Check Point provides integrated solutions that form the foundation of a comprehensive Zero Trust framework as follows:

Harmony SASE:

• Secure remote access from any location
• Identity-based access control
• Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
• Real-time authentication and monitoring

Quantum and CloudGuard Network Security with Infinity Identity:

• Advanced threat prevention across hybrid environments
• Micro-segmentation and identity-aware security
• Least-privilege access enforcement
• Unified security management for cloud and on-premises

Harmony Endpoint, Browse, and Mobile:

• Complete endpoint protection with threat prevention
• Secure web browsing with zero-trust isolation
• Mobile threat defense
• Cross-device security and connectivity

 Together, these solutions deliver:

• Unified security management
• Real-time threat prevention
• Comprehensive visibility and control
• Automated security operations

 This integrated approach enables organizations to implement Zero Trust while maintaining operational efficiency and user productivity.

Zero Trust Innovation

In summary, the traditional approach to defense is no longer sufficient. The emergence of Zero Trust as a transformative paradigm represents a proactive and strategic shift towards a more resilient security posture. By challenging the conventional notion of implicit trust and advocating for continuous verification of every access request, Zero Trust offers MSSPs the unique opportunity to offer their clients a robust defense mechanism against both external and internal threats.

Check Point stands at the forefront of Zero Trust innovation, offering comprehensive solutions that seamlessly integrate with this paradigm. By leveraging Check Point’s Zero Trust solutions, MSSPs can streamline implementation, reduce management overhead, and deliver cutting-edge security solutions to their clients with confidence.

IceWarp Triumphs at the 14th Channel Accelerator Awards 2024, Celebrating Excellence in Tech

New Delhi, December 5 2024: IceWarp, the leading provider of Business Email and Collaboration solutions has added yet another accolade to its growing list of achievements by being named among the Top 5 Channel Favorite Vendors in the Enterprise Email and Collaboration Category. The recognition was conferred at the prestigious 14th Channel Accelerator Awards 2024, held at Aloft, Aerocity, New Delhi.

Adding to the celebration, Anita Kukreja, IceWarp’s Head of Strategic Alliances and Brand, was honored as one of the Top 10 Channel Marketers of the Year. Her exceptional contributions to channel strategies, partner engagement, and brand growth played a pivotal role in IceWarp’s success in the competitive IT landscape.

The Channel Accelerator Awards, a hallmark event in the Indian IT ecosystem, celebrates innovation, excellence, and partnerships that redefine the channel landscape. This year’s event witnessed the participation of top industry leaders, marking a significant platform for recognizing outstanding contributions across various categories.

Pramod Sharda, CEO, IceWarp India and Middle East commented on this achievement,

 “Being recognized as a Top 5 Channel Favorite Vendor is a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation and our channel partners. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Anita Kukreja for her well-deserved recognition as a Top 10 Channel Marketer of the Year. Her strategic initiatives and relentless efforts have been instrumental in strengthening IceWarp’s channel ecosystem and driving growth.”

Anita Kukreja, Head of Strategic Alliances and Brand, IceWarp India who was awarded in the event said, “It is an honor to be recognized among the Top 10 Channel Marketers of the Year. This achievement is a reflection of the collective efforts of the IceWarp team and our channel partners who share our vision for delivering cutting-edge solutions. We remain committed to empowering our partners with the tools and support they need to thrive in the ever-evolving IT landscape.”

IceWarp’s recognition as a channel favorite underscores its focus on delivering innovative, secure, and comprehensive email and collaboration solutions tailored to meet the unique demands of enterprises. With a partner-first approach, IceWarp continues to strengthen its footprint in the Indian IT market, driving success through meaningful collaborations.

Toxins in Your Environment: How Everyday Exposures May Increase Breast Cancer Risk

By- Dr. Vividha Dubey, Consultant Radiation Oncologist, HCG Hospitals, Bhavnagar

 Healthy living is one of the most desired aspects of humans and we do everything possible to lead a healthy life. However, in the growing era of various health adversaries, we are faced with the reality of endless diseases and health concerns. This deadly disease affects millions of individuals worldwide, with women being disproportionately affected. Women can develop several types of cancer including ovarian, breast, cervical, lung, and endometrial cancers and these can impact women’s physical and mental well-being significantly. This also leads to negatively impacting quality of life. Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent and life-threatening cancers affecting women.

 What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women globally, posing a significant health concern. It occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrolled and create a tumor or lump. While this cancer can affect both men and women, it is more common in women, with age, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures all contributing to the risk.
Regular exposure to certain chemicals, commonly found in household items, food, and personal care products, may contribute to an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Understanding these chemicals and limiting exposure can be critical steps toward protecting one’s health.
What are the common environmental toxins linked to breast cancer?
• Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): The hormonal system of the body, which controls metabolism, growth, and reproduction, is upset by EDCs. Certain EDCs mimic the effects of estrogen, a hormone that can promote the formation of certain types of breast cancer when it is present in excess. These substances can be found in many common products, such as insecticides, personal care products (parabens, phthalates), and plastics (BPA).
• Pesticides: Breast cancer and pesticides, particularly organochlorines, may be related. These substances build up in adipose tissues and may have an impact on hormone regulation, which may increase the risk of cancer.
• Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): Despite being prohibited in many nations, PCBs are still present in the environment and continue to be harmful to human health. Electrical equipment was one of the many uses for these industrial compounds. PCBs have been connected to cancer, especially breast cancer, and are known to build up in the body. These compounds can contaminate water supplies, which is why they are frequently discovered in older buildings and some types of seafood.
• Cosmetic and Personal Care Products: Chemicals like phthalates and parabens, which serve as aroma stabilizers and preservatives, are found in a lot of hygiene and cosmetic items. Research indicates that prolonged exposure to these substances can disrupt estrogen levels, which could raise the risk of breast cancer. Many medical specialists recommend using goods that are branded as “phthalate-free” or “paraben-free”.

How to stay safe from these toxins?
There are several steps you can take to reduce your exposure to environmental toxins that may increase the risk of breast cancer. Choosing organic foods and natural personal care products is a key strategy for minimizing this risk. Ensuring proper ventilation in your home can also help reduce indoor air pollutants from cleaning agents, building materials, and electronic devices. Additionally, limiting the consumption of processed foods is recommended, as they may contain additives or be packaged in materials that can leach harmful chemicals.

The Role of AI in Personalizing Education: A Deep Dive into Industry 5.0’s Impact on Higher Learning

By- Prof. Supriya Pattanayak, Vice Chancellor, Centurion University, Odisha

 Education in the 21st century has moved away from merely being a process of rote learning and then writing verbatim to holistic education where the focus has shifted to skill-based education. This metamorphosis has enabled the students to stay abreast with the needs of the industry and become job ready once they pass out from university. With changing time Artificial Intelligence has also played a key role in the education system. We are witnessing the application of artificial intelligence in evaluation, and this is increasing even as we speak. This AI-based assessment reduces subjectivity and saves teachers’ time, leaving teachers with more time to devote to lesson planning and instruction. When AI begins to replace instructors, though, that is a cause for alarm. Since education requires face-to-face connection, I think we should rather not tamper with this system.

Teachers and educationists understand that the future belongs to AI and will become more pervasive and integrate into more facets of our life. The worry that AI would eliminate jobs is also a result of this. However, in order to improve things, humans will need to stay on top of it and use technology. The workforce of the future must be prepared for the application of AI into more realms. And to do so, we need classes that get students ready for whatever the future may bring.

Earlier there were programmers and coders who would spend hours, days and even months to create programs. Today with the help of AI one can do so within a short span of time. Engineers and graduates of computer science used to do be the best pick to do this laborious and mind consuming task. Now Python programming makes it possible to complete tasks quickly by just dragging and dropping, something that was unthinkable just a few years ago.

Thus, academic institutions must adapt their curricula to the times and take into consideration the skill set that may be needed in the future. It is pertinent to include AI not just in teaching but also in course curriculum. Understanding artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and other related technologies is crucial. During B Tech courses, these areas are offered as specialisation subjects or as distinct streams. By studying the design, analysis, gathering, and interpretation of numerical data, data science aids in the comprehension and extraction of patterns from the data and technology. Data analysis is done utilising big data tools like HADOOP, ETL tools, Python data visualisation, spectral image analysis, and AI/ML applications.

To be future ready, students can opt for graduate programs that can help them land jobs as Software developers, database administrators,cloud computing engineers, metaverse programmers,data architects, digital data visualisers, data ecologists, clinical and pharmaceutical analysts, data technologies specialists, digital manufacturing engineers, financial modellers, full-stack developers, and machine learning engineers are among the professions. One can choose to specialise in any of them according to their specialization.

Another area that will need more qualified workers in the future is cyber security. Every person on the planet has access to the internet, where they socialise, conduct business, and provide a range of services. But criminals have been doing this and will continue to look for ways to commit fraud or use personal information to extort others. Students that take a cyber security course learn how to defend computer operating systems, keep an eye on systems, reduce dangers, and secure networks and data from online attacks.

Courses like RemoteInfrastructure Management enables students to manage computers and get hands ontraining with wired and Wi-Fi protocols. When such courses have CISCO certifications (CCNAand CCNP) and EC-Council certifications, it creates Network Security Engineer,Cyber Security Architect, Cyber Security Analyst, Cyber Security Manager, Information Security Manager,Chief InformationSecurity Officer (CISO), Cyber Security Engineer etc.

Besides, since enterprises are quickly adopting Cloud Technology, and using the same in different ways, its penetration is predicted to increase significantly over the next ten years. Students can be prepared to be useful in the future by taking a course that gives them the opportunity to establish up software management enterprises using cloud technologies. Along with managing their own data centres, universities are collaborating with AWS to give students the necessary skill set. Future cloud engineers, architects, consultants, DevOps engineers, security engineers, data engineers, full-stack developers, cloud system administrators, and user interface developers will all be completely prepared by this.

In the coming years, an undergraduate education in software as a service (SAAS) is probably going to be in high demand. With the use of CMS technologies, such a course can assist students in learning both software engineering and project management techniques. Software Requirement Specifications (SRS) will be written, tested, and deployed by them. Since this is a constantly evolving market, one must remain alert and adjust to new platforms. You can work as an applications developer, cyber security analyst, game developer, or information systems manager with a SAAS degree.

Other emerging industries that can guarantee a student never loses a job are mobile applications and the internet of things. The secret is to be creative and open to trying new things. You can expect to succeed when you’re prepared to take on the obstacles that life and evolving technologies present. Furthermore, rather of being a barrier, AI will develop into a tool that helps further establish a road map for success.

2024: A Year of Surprises & Success for TV actors

As 2024 comes to a close, &TV actors reflect on a year filled with career milestones, personal achievements, and unforgettable moments. From breakthrough roles to personal joys, 2024 has been a remarkable journey for Aayudh Bhanushali (young Atal in Atal), Amit Bhardwaj (Mewa in Bheema), Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Rohitashv Gour (Manmohan Tiwari in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai). Aayudh Bhanushali, who plays young Atal in Atal, shares, “This year has been nothing short of amazing for me. Playing young Atal Bihari Vajpayee in &TV’s Atal is a dream come true. Portraying such a legendary figure comes with great responsibility, but it’s also an incredible honour. What makes this role even more special is that this is my third time playing the on-screen son of Neha Joshi ma’am, with whom I share a beautiful bond. Every day on the set of Atal is an exciting adventure, filled with learning and fun. This role has elevated my career, and I’m grateful to the entire team for believing in me.” Amit Bhardwaj, who plays Mewa in Bheema, says, “2024 has truly changed my life. After years of playing side roles and facing numerous rejections, I finally got my big break as the lead in Bheema. This opportunity feels like the culmination of years of hard work and self-belief. The journey was tough, with many moments of doubt, but every small role I played helped build my resilience as an actor. Being given the role of Mewa has been both a challenge and a reward. This role has not only boosted my career but also allowed me to connect deeply with the audience.”

 Himani Shivpuri, who plays Katori Amma in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, adds, “2024 has been a year I will never forget as I celebrated 40 years in the entertainment industry. Looking back at my journey — from theatre to television and films — is surreal. Every step has brought challenges, triumphs, and countless memories that have shaped me as both an artist and a person. This year has been professionally fulfilling, as I’ve taken on roles that challenge and excite me. The love and appreciation from the audience have fuelled my passion, and I still feel the same excitement stepping onto a set as I did 40 years ago. Personally, this milestone represents my dedication and perseverance. I am deeply grateful for the friendships and experiences that have shaped my journey. Here’s to many more years of creating magic on screen.” Rohitashv Gour, who portrays Manmohan Tiwari in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, shares, “This year has been a year like no other, both in my career and personal life. In 2024, my daughter Giti made her debut in the entertainment industry, and the best part is that we’re working together in the film! Watching Giti grow up with a passion for acting has been emotional and inspiring. Sharing the screen with her is an experience I never imagined. She brings a fresh energy to every scene, and I must admit, I’ve learned a lot from her! This journey together has strengthened our bond as father and daughter, and as co-actors. I’m incredibly proud of her dedication to her craft, and I can’t wait for the audience to see her talent. This year has truly been a blessing in every way.”

Protoplanet and SIA-India Ink Partnership to Accelerate Space Innovation and Skill Development

New Delhi, 5th December 2024: SIA-India, an association for the space industry and Protoplanet have entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster innovative research and capacity building at universities and institutes in the area of astrobiology, planetary sciences, microgravity, climate studies. This partnership marks a significant step toward advancing India’s space exploration ecosystem while promoting responsible innovation and global collaboration.

The exchange of MoU ceremony takes place at the prestigious Indo-Pacific Space and Earth Conference (IPSEC) 2024, between Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri President SIA-India and Dr. Siddharth Pandey, Director of Protoplanet. The ceremony was held in the presence of Mr. Amarjeet Singh Takhi, Consul General of India in Western Australia, Mr. Anil Prakash, Director General of SIA-India, alongside other dignitaries and industry leaders. This significant collaboration aims to accelerate international cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region.

SIA-India, a leading not-for-profit space sector association, is dedicated to accelerating industry growth and driving collaborations across civil, commercial, and defence domains. Protoplanet hosts a network of international experts uniting to provide a purpose-driven training and immersive platform focused on Climate and Space Exploration training for universities, registered in Bengaluru, India.

The MoU outlines several key objectives:

1. Research and Innovation Ecosystem: Collaborating on interdisciplinary projects at universities, startups and research institutes focusing on microgravity studies, planetary sciences, space robotics, and terrestrial analogues

2. Knowledge Exchange and Capacity Building: Hosting joint workshops, specialized training, and creating platforms for knowledge sharing and student engagement.

3. Technology Development and Commercialization: Driving innovation in space technologies and facilitating industry partnerships to bring research outcomes to application.

4. Policy and International Collaboration: Advocating for a supportive policy framework and fostering global partnerships in space exploration and research.

Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri, President of SIA-India, remarked, “This MoU embodies our commitment to creating a dynamic and innovative space ecosystem in India by leveraging our policy influence and collaborating with visionary partners like Protoplanet.”

Dr. Siddharth Pandey, Director of Protoplanet , added, “We are thrilled to partner with SIA-India to advance space research and education while empowering the next generation of innovators in the Indian space sector.”

This collaboration will remain in effect until the conclusion of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2028, serving as a robust platform for capacity building and industry-academia partnerships in space exploration.