Author: Rabindra

Union Bank of India Pays Record Dividend of Rupees 2054 Crore to Government of India for FY 2023-24

Mumbai, 10 August 2024: Union Bank of India (UBI) has paid a record dividend of ₹ 2054 crore to the Government of India for the financial year 2023-24, marking the highest dividend ever paid by the Bank in any financial year. Ms. A. Manimekhalai, Managing Director & CEO of Union Bank of India, presented the dividend cheque to the Hon’ble Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, on Friday, August 9, 2024, in New Delhi. Joint Secretary (Banking) Shri Sameer Shukla was also present at the occasion.

MLA Sri. S R Vishwanath at Manipal Academy of Higher Education Bengaluru to inaugurate the Academic Block 2

Bengaluru, August 10, 2024 — Manipal Academy of Higher Education Bengaluru (MAHE B’LRU) hosted inaugural ceremony for its Academic Block 2. Auspicious occasion was marked by the presence of Sri. S R Vishwanath, MLA, Yelahanka Constituency, who inaugurated the Block on 9th August 2024 at Dr Ramdas M Pai Convention Hall at MAHE B’LRU.

Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru, Dr Raghavendra Prabhu P, Deputy Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru along with other distinguished guests and stakeholders graced the event with their presence.

The event, attended by distinguished guests, academicians, and dignitaries from across the city, marked a significant milestone in Bengaluru’s journey towards enhancing its cultural and intellectual landscape.

Sri. S R Vishwanath, inaugurated the event with an insightful address, emphasizing the new beginnings with the Academic Block 2. He said, “Today is a momentous day for MAHE B’LRU. The inauguration of Academic Block 2 signifies institute’s dedication to fostering an environment that supports education, innovation, and community engagement. This facility is more than just a venue; it is a testament to the commitment to progress and excellence, providing a platform for intellectual and cultural exchange”.

Speaking at event, Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, said, “We are thrilled to inaugurate the Academic Block 2, a facility that stands as a symbol of our commitment to excellence and innovation. This venue is designed to reflect the cultural richness and diversity of our community, offering a platform for events that will shape the future and inspire the next generation. We look forward to seeing this block become a hub for academic excellence and a centre for meaningful interactions and collaborations”.

Dr Raghavendra Prabhu P said, “The opening of the Academic Block represents a pivotal moment in our pursuit of academic and cultural excellence. This facility embodies our mission to create spaces that inspire and empower our community, offering a world-class environment for learning, collaboration, and innovation. We are excited to see how this block will bring together diverse minds and ideas, contributing to the growth and development of our institution and the city of Bengaluru”.

Academic Block 2 at MAHE B’LRU boasts modern amenities, including high-definition audio-visual systems, spacious seating arrangements, and eco-friendly design features that prioritize sustainability and comfort. With its elegant architecture and strategic location, the block sets a new standard for education spaces in the region.

The inaugural event was a resounding success, with attendees enjoying a guided tour of the facility, showcasing its cutting-edge technology and luxurious interiors. The event concluded with a networking session, allowing guests to connect and discuss future possibilities for collaborations and events at the new venue.

A CSR Initiative for Children with Congenital Health diseases concludes with Heartwarming Ceremony

Hyderabad, 10th August 2024: Conexus and Jagathi Foundation, in collaboration with CARE Hospitals, one of the leading multispecialty hospital chains in India, proudly hosted the concluding ceremony of ‘Nanhe Dilo-ka Safar,’ a CSR initiative dedicated to addressing Congenital Heart Disease in underprivileged children. The event took place at T-HUB, Gachibowli, and marked the culmination of a six-month-long effort to help underprivileged children suffering from Congenital Heart Disease and raising awareness about the disease in the broader community.

The event featured the official release of the initiative’s campaign video, followed by a presentation of the impact report by the associated NGOs. The program concluded with an exhibition showcasing twelve remarkable artistic masterpieces and figurines created by children and artists. The event was inaugurated by Mr. Jasdeep Singh, Group CEO of CARE Hospitals, Mr. Srinivas Rao Mahankali, CEO of T-HUB, Dr. Tapan Kumar Dash, HOD- Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery at CARE Hospitals, senior leadership dignitaries of CARE Hospitals in the presence of the NGO partners, volunteers, children and their parents.

The one-of-its-kind CSR Campaign ‘Nanhe Dilo-ka Safar’ began with an art camp where 11 children, aged 7 to 13 years, created 12 artistic masterpieces presenting their visions of a bright future upon winning the battle against Congenital Heart Disease. These artworks were used in a city-wide awareness drive, turning into vibrant over 50+ educative wall graffiti created across urban and rural areas. A 5ft 3D figurine was also crafted and placed at various places in the city to further raise awareness about the disease.

Speaking on the occasion Mr Jasdeep Singh, Group CEO, CARE Hospitals said, “Nanhe Dilo-ka Safar CSR initiative exemplifies the power of collaboration and community in addressing critical health issues like Congenital heart disease. By combining art, awareness, and medical support, we have created a holistic approach to not only treat but also educate and inspire. I am deeply proud of the efforts put forth by all involved and look forward to continuing our mission to make a meaningful impact on the lives of these children.”

In his remarks, Mr. Srinivas Rao Mahankali stated, “Initiatives like ‘Nanhe Dilo-ka Safar’ are essential in bridging the gap between medical care and community awareness. The collaborative efforts of Conexus, Jagathi Foundation, and CARE Hospitals in addressing Congenital Heart Disease are commendable. Their commitment to improving the lives of underprivileged children is a powerful example of how healthcare and compassion can come together to create lasting change.”

“This initiative has been a labor of love, showcasing the resilience of children facing Congenital heart disease. Our partnership with Jagathi Foundation and CARE Hospitals proves that united communities can achieve remarkable transformations. We are committed to ensuring no child is left behind,” said Manish Handa CEO of Conexus. “Seeing the smiles of these children and their families is the true reward. This journey has reinforced our belief in empathy and action, raising awareness and providing hope. We thank all our partners and volunteers for their unwavering dedication,” added Durga Kalyani Founder of Jagathi Foundation.

The event was a heartfelt celebration of resilience, creativity, and the collective effort to make a difference in the lives of children battling Congenital Heart Disease. Conexus, Jagathi Foundation, and CARE Hospitals extend their gratitude to all the partners, volunteers, and participants who made this initiative a success.

Ayush Shrivastava Bags the Lead Role in Shemaroo Umang’s Much-Awaited Supernatural Show ‘Shamshaan Champa’

Actor Ayush Shrivastava has joined the cast of the highly anticipated show ‘Shamshaan Champa’ in the lead role of Vikram. Produced by the renowned Gul Khan, this show has already created a buzz with its first promo and the announcement of big names like Monalisa and Trupti Mishra, and Ayush Shrivastava’s addition is set to add even more excitement to the lineup.

Expressing his enthusiasm about the role, Ayush Shrivastava said, “Vikram is a modern thinker, firmly rooted in science and logic, which resonates with many of us in today’s world. His journey, shaped by past trauma and his overprotective nature towards his family, adds a rich layer to his character. Despite his family’s deep-rooted beliefs in the supernatural, Vikram’s firm refusal to accept anything beyond logic makes him a fascinating character. However, his world turns upside down when he meets Champa. I am thrilled to bring Vikram’s story to life and can’t wait for the audience to experience the thrilling supernatural saga ‘Shamshaan Champa.”

The show has already become the talk of the town after the first promo and the anticipation has only grown with the release of the second promo. This latest teaser offers glimpses into the lives of Vikram, Champa (played by Trupti Mishra) and Mohini (played by Monalisa), weaving a darker narrative as it unfolds. We see Mohini’s hidden motives as she traps Vikram, while Champa appears as a new dayaan will she save Vikram or will she join Mohini in her quest?

VOX India proudly sponsors “Legends of Design” – India’s first Web-series on Architects

New Delhi, August 9, 2024 – VOX India, a leading interior and exterior building material company renowned for redefining spaces from floor to ceiling, proudly announces its successful association as an associate sponsor for ‘Legends of Design,’ India’s first web-series dedicated to celebrating the country’s most influential architects. Held on the evening of August 8th at The Lalit, Mumbai Sahar Airport Road, this pioneering event spotlighted the creative minds behind some of India’s most iconic structures.

‘Legends of Design’ will feature an impressive star cast of top-notch Indian architects, whose projects are globally recognized. The show aims to inspire millions of young architects and students through storytelling that captures the journeys and achievements of these architectural stalwarts. The event will showcase projects such as the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Hiranandani Powai in Mumbai, DLF Cyber City in Gurgaon, Chowmahalla Palace in Hyderabad, Lodha World One Towers in Mumbai, and the Gateway of India in Mumbai.

Featured Architects

Ar. Hafeez Contractor
Ar. Brinda Somaya
Ar. Christopher Charles Benninger
Ar. G Shankar
Ar. Hiren Patel
Ar. Charanjit Shah
Ar. Abha Narain Lambah
Ar. Sheila Sri Prakash
Ar. Shashi Prabhu

 Speaking on this Mr. Varun Poddar, Founder of VOX India said, “At VOX India, our mission has always been to redefine spaces with innovative and high-quality building materials. Partnering with Legends of Design aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering creativity and excellence in architecture. We are honoured to support a platform that celebrates the pioneers of Indian architecture and showcases the transformative power of great design”

Mr. Karan Mehta, Founder of ‘Legends of Design’ added, “Legends of Design is more than just a show; it’s a celebration of the architectural brilliance that has shaped our nation’s skyline. We are thrilled to bring together such an esteemed group of architects whose work has set new benchmarks in design and innovation. This platform will not only highlight their incredible journeys but also inspire the next generation of architects to push the boundaries of creativity and excellence”

Ar. Gopal Nair Shankar added, “Legends of Design is an engaging journey that takes you to the legacy and profundity of rooted architecture. It is about the seamless space around us and how some of them have transformed it to magical and meaningful expressions.”

‘Legends of Design’ Show Premiere Highlights

The evening was a remarkable convergence of architectural legends under one roof, featuring engaging discussions and insights into their iconic works.

· Premiere Show and Cast & Crew Gathering: The unique opportunity to witness the coming together of architectural greats was a highlight of the evening, as they shared engaging discussions and insights into their iconic works.

· Guest Contributions: Cricket Star Mr. Sunil Gavaskar made a memorable contribution to one of the episodes, and popular actor Mr. Sachin Khedekar, who lent his voice to the show, also graced the event with his presence.

· Networking Dinner & Cocktails: The evening concluded with a delightful networking dinner and cocktails, where industry leaders, architects, and friends from the architecture community interacted and celebrated the success of the event.

‘Legends of Design’ web-series is set to premiere on YouTube after the launch event, with new episodes released every Friday for ten weeks. This series will delve into the inspiring journeys of India’s architectural legends, providing insights and motivation for the next generation of architects and students.

India sees alarming rise in Gynaecological cancers among young women; Top robotic gynaecological surgeons’ forum

New Delhi, 9th Aug 2024: At New Delhi today, the top robotic-gynaecological surgeons from India, informed that India is currently experiencing a concerning rise in gynaecological cancers among younger women, underscoring an urgent need for spreading more awareness about preventive measures, importance of early screening and enhanced adoption of advanced treatment options like robotic-assisted surgery. In response to this growing challenge, the Association of Gynaecological Robotic Surgeons of India (AGRS) is set to explore innovative advancements in robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) to improve the management of these complex cases and enhance patient outcomes. As a part of that, they are conducting an international conference, RoboGyn India 2024, in New Delhi. This distinguished event will bring together leading national and international experts in robotic-assisted surgery within gynaecology and gynaecological oncology.

While talking about the rising trend of gynaecological cancers, Dr. Rama Joshi, a leading Gynae Onco robotic surgeon and the Organizing Chairperson of RoboGyn India, said “We are witnessing a rise in gynaecological cancers among younger women in India, a trend that is both distressing and demanding of our attention. For instance, we are seeing more incidences of endometrial cancer among young women in their early 30s, a condition traditionally seen in post-menopausal women. Rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes in India, including sedentary habits, high-calorie diets, and increased stress levels, have significantly impacted women’s health”.

While talking about the ways to tackle it, she said, “Regular check-ups and screenings play a critical role in the early detection and management of such gynaecological conditions. Any patient coming with excessive or irregular bleeding must be evaluated to exclude uterine cancer. These proactive health measures allow for the identification of potential issues before they progress to more severe stages, significantly improving treatment outcomes. Robotic-assisted surgery with advanced technologies like da Vinci has emerged as a crucial tool in addressing these complex cases. We could even save a woman in her early pregnancy with a complex ovarian tumour, without harming the foetus, by using this technology. However, we need more surgeons and other healthcare professionals to get trained on this technology, to make it available for all eligible patients across the country.”

The leaders from the gynaecological robotic surgeons’ forum also discussed about, obesity becoming a major public health concern in India. In obese patients, the surgical risk is very high. In order to reduce Morbidity, and extend the improved quality of life, the focus is changing to the use of technology.

Dr. Peter Lim, Medical Director at the Center of Hope Robotic & Minimally Invasive Pelvic Surgery and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Nevada Reno School of Medicine, USA, said “Robotic-assisted surgery offers numerous advantages in the management of gynaecological cancers, even in obese patients. The technology provides unparalleled precision, allowing for meticulous dissection and better visualization of the surgical field. These benefits translate into reduced recovery times, fewer complications, and overall improved surgical outcomes. As we confront the rising incidence of these cancers, the ability to perform such precise and minimally invasive procedures becomes increasingly valuable. We are here to showcase the latest advancements and discuss how we can further harness robotic technology to combat these challenges.”

Dr. Rooma Sinha, the President of AGRS, added, “We are not able to provide advanced surgical technologies like RAS to women across the country due to various reasons. One of them is the lack of enough number of trained RAS gynecological surgeons in India. Through this association, we are trying to close this gap by introducing RAS to more surgeons. The foremost objective of this initiative is to train more surgeons on RAS and create a pathway towards achieving enhanced clinical outcomes for women. AGRS has been in the forefront of training more gynaecologists in RAS. By harnessing the exceptional capabilities of RAS systems such as the da Vinci, our surgeons can adeptly navigate through the intricacies of gynaecological disorders that require complex surgical interventions.”

Another world-renowned robotic surgeon, Dr. Tae Joong Kim, Professor Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan Univ. School of Medicine, South Korea emphasized the need for integrating robotic surgery into medical education. “Incorporating robotic-assisted surgery into the postgraduate curriculum is imperative for preparing the next generation of surgeons. As robotic technology continues to evolve and become a standard in surgical practice, it is crucial that upcoming practitioners are well-trained in its use. By integrating robotic-assisted surgery into medical education, we can ensure that future surgeons are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to utilize this technology effectively. This approach will not only enhance their proficiency, but also contribute to better patient care and surgical outcomes,” he said.

Novamax Appliances Expands its Presence with New Manufacturing Plant in Gorakhpur

August 09, 2024 || Novamax Appliances, a pioneering home appliance brand is set to establish its new manufacturing facility in Gorakhpur. This strategic move will cater to the growing demands in Nepal, Bengal, Jharkhand, and Bihar, further solidifying Novamax’s presence in these key markets. The brand has invested 35 crores to set up the new factory with the facility spread over 26,000 square feet. It is set to become operational within the next year, promising to bring 250 new jobs to the region. This expansion showcases Novamax’s commitment to contributing to local economies and supporting community development.

Speaking about the new venture, Harshit Aggarwal, the CEO and Founder of Novamax Appliances says, “Setting up the new factory in Gorakhpur showcases our dedication to meeting the growing demand for high-quality home appliances in the region. With this facility, we aim to enhance our production capabilities and ensure timely delivery to our customers. Our goal is not only to expand our market reach but also to create substantial employment opportunities and encourage economic growth in the local community.”

With an initial investment of ₹5.25 crores, Novamax Appliances has experienced significant growth over the years. In the sales segment, their commitment towards quality control and customer satisfaction has resulted in an increase of 25%, highlighting the trust and loyalty of the brand’s expanding customer base. In FY24, the brand targeted a financial closure of ₹160 crores in the aim for new financial milestones and diversification of its products.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Appoints Kedarswamy Ravangave as Head of Marketing

Bengaluru, 9th August 2024: Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd (“KMBL” / “Bank”) announced the appointment of Kedarswamy (Kedar) Ravangave as Head of Marketing for Consumer and Commercial Bank.

Kedar joins Kotak Mahindra Bank from Amazon India, where he was a pivotal member of the leadership team, driving marketing, brand, and category initiatives. With extensive experience across esteemed organizations like Marico and Amazon India, Kedar brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Kotak. He holds a B.Tech in Electronics and Communication from Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur and an MBA from Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune.

Kedar will be working closely with Consumer and Commercial Bank business teams on driving marketing initiatives and shall report to Rohit Bhasin, President, Head – Propositions & Chief Marketing Officer, Kotak Mahindra Bank.

Rohit Bhasin said, “We are delighted to welcome Kedar to the Kotak family. With his extensive experience in e-commerce and FMCG, and his proven track record in marketing, Kedar will be instrumental in our efforts to build Kotak as the go to financial services brand for the Aspirational Indian. His leadership and innovative approach, combined with his strong focus on customer centricity, will help us navigate the dynamic market landscape and achieve our strategic objectives “.

Kedarswamy Ravangave, Head of Marketing for Consumer and Commercial Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “I am thrilled to take on this challenge and work for a brand in the BFSI sector. The banking industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, with technology at the forefront. I am grateful for this opportunity and eager to contribute to the bank’s growth journey. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at Kotak in the journey to continue to build a strong, innovative, and customer-centric brand.”

CREDAI to Host SOUTHCON 2024 on August 24th and 25th, 2024

The Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI), Andhra Pradesh, is going to host SOUTH CON 2024 at Ayana Hotel & Convention Centre, Vijayawada on 24th and 25th August 2024. The announcement was made in the presence of Mr. G. Ram Reddy, Secretary, CREDAI National, Mr. B. Raja Srinivas, Joint Secretary, CREDAI National, Mr. Alla Siva Reddy, Chairman, CREDAI Andhra Pradesh, Mr. Y. V. Ramana Rao, President, CREDAI Andhra Pradesh, Mr. Bayana Srinivasa Rao, General Secretary, CREDAI Andhra Pradesh and Mr. D. Rambabu, Convenor, SOUTH CON along with members developers from CREDAI Andhra Pradesh.

CREDAI AP SouthCon 2024 aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth in southern India’s real estate sector across southern estate. This leading conference unites key industry figures to share insights, tackle challenges, and explore opportunities in the-dynamic real estate landscape of South India. Key leaders and stakeholders came together to drive progress, exchange valuable insights, and strengthen connections within the real estate community. This prestigious gathering will provide a platform for influential figures to foster unity, share knowledge, and encourage cooperation across the industry. Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Mr. N. Chandrababu Naidu will be inaugurating the SouthCon 2024.

Mr. G. Ram Reddy, Secretary, CREDAI National said, “The South Indian states contribute 31% to the national GDP with higher Per Capita Income. These states are at the forefront of the technology, automobile, healthcare and startup revolution in the country and thereby attracting investments across sectors. This requires a focused approach towards building world class infrastructure as we move towards ‘Viksit Bharat.’ At SouthCon 2024 a report on the Construction and Present Market Scenario in South India, prepared by JLL, will be released through the hands of Hon’ble Chief Minister, Sri Nara Chandra Babu Naidu.

According to Mr. B. Raja Srinivas, Joint Secretary, CREDAI National said, The StateCon 2024 has been planned with the objective to encourage the real estate developers in the region to come together to collaborate, innovate and adopt sustainable construction practices. Andhra Pradesh is at the cusp of rapid growth and transformation as they set up the new capital at Amravati. The convergence of industry experts at SouthCon will provide valuable insights to the developers to understand and adopt latest technologies and build sustainable city.”

The event will showcase a significant shift in the real estate sector, emphasizing the importance of sustainable construction practices, such as green buildings and eco-friendly materials, alongside the integration of advanced technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and smart building solutions.

Mr. Alla Siva Reddy, Chairman, CREDAI Andhra Pradesh, “As Andhra Pradesh gears up to build a new capital region at Amravati, the developers from the state will greatly benefit from the diverse and rich experience of industry leaders from other southern states and the world and adapt the best sustainable practices and building materials to develop Amravati as Green, Sustainable and a True Global City.”

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Y. V. Ramana Rao, President, CREDAI Andhra Pradesh said, “SOUTH CON 2024 is an initiative by CREDAI to bring together the Industry leaders and member developers to understand the dynamic real estate landscape in South India, understand the common challenges and learn from the best practices by developers across the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. By bringing together industry leaders, exchanging knowledge, and promoting constructive discussions, we aspire to foster innovation and enhance the standards of real estate development across the South Indian states. We invite member developers from the South Indian states to participants to interact with key figures in the industry, acquire valuable perspectives from keynote speeches on emerging trends, technological innovations, and regulatory developments, and collaborate on solutions that will influence the future of our field.”

General Secretary of CREDAI AP Sri Bayana Srinivasarao in his welcome address “The southern part of India, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes is witnessing impressive growth in its real estate sector. This dynamic region is driven by rapid urbanization and economic advancement, making the construction industry a vital player in shaping the urban environments and communities. SouthCon 2024 offers a valuable opportunity to connect with industry peers, explore emerging trends, and build partnerships across this lively region. Together, we can improve the future of real estate in South India, promoting a sustainable and thriving environment for all.

Convener of the SouthCon, Sri D. Rambabu told that this prestigious SouthCon is going to be conducted at AYANA Convention Center in Vijayawada on 24th & 25th of August. In this connection CREDAI AP has constituted various Sub-Committees for organizing this Conclave. All the Conveners, Coordinators and members of the various Sub-Committees are working relentlessly for the last 2 months for making this SouthCon a grand success.

He proposed Vote of Thanks by thanking all the stalwarts of CREDAI who are attending on this occasion, members of the CREDAI and Mukta media & Print and Media for attending this Press Meet.