Author: Rabindra

SHARP Unveils New Compact A4 Colour Multifunctional Printer & 4K Interactive Whiteboard

5th July 2024  SHARP Business Systems (India) Pvt. Ltd., a wholly-owned Indian subsidiary of SHARP Corporation Japan, renowned globally for its cutting-edge technology products and solutions today announced the launch of its new compact Colour Multifunctional Printer (MFP) (BP-C533WD) and Interactive Whiteboard (PN-LC752 and PN-LC862). Designed to elevate businesses to greater success, these cutting-edge innovations not only enhance business productivity but also provide a touch of elegance to any workspace. The new compact MFP can integrate seamlessly in any workplace, providing the high-end capabilities of A3 color multifunction printers. SHARP unveiled the newly launched products at the National Dealers Meet held in Pune.

Speaking on the launch, Osamu Narita, Managing Director, SHARP Business Systems (India) Private Ltd., said, “At SHARP, we are always pushing the boundaries of innovation to drive the worldwide evolution of workspace technology. With a firm focus on quality, we are consistently improving our smart, connected, secure and user -friendly product lineup to set new standards in performance. The introduction of the cutting-edge MFP BP-C533WD and the advanced 4K Ultra HD interactive whiteboard is a testament to our dedication in combining state-of-the-art technology with exceptional performance, thereby establishing a new standard for efficiency and productivity in modern workplaces. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our esteemed partners across India for their steadfast support in this endeavor.”

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Sukhdev Singh, President, Smart Business Solutions, SHARP Business Systems (India) Private Ltd., said, “We are thrilled to introduce our latest lineup, showcasing the A4 Color Multifunction printers renowned for their compact design and exceptional performance, alongside the launch of the Ultra HD 4K interactive whiteboard. Our dedication to understanding the unique needs of our users drives our product development strategy. Whether it’s enriching learning experiences, delivering impactful presentations, or fostering greater collaboration in the workplace, we are committed to providing extraordinary solutions that empower businesses to thrive.”

SHARP’s new A4 color MFP (BP-C533WD) is the ultimate document solution for modern workplaces. With high-end capabilities, seamless connectivity, and top-notch security features, it’s perfect for contemporary work environments including small and mid-size offices, enterprises, executive rooms, co-working spaces as well as government offices. In addition, its compact size makes it a versatile addition to any office setting.

SHARP’s new A4 MFP is capable of printing and copying at speeds of up to 33 ppm in both color and black & white. Besides, it also comes equipped with the Fax and Wi-Fi functionalities. With the built-in Duplex Single Pass Feeder, it can scan two-sided documents at speeds of up to 130 pm, ensuring efficient digitization of documents. Additionally, the BP-C533WD utilizes AI (Artificial Intelligence) to automatically adjust resolution, gradation, and compression rates for optimal scan results.

The familiar 7” tiltable color LCD operation panel with an easy user interface enhances the overall access to the range of productivity-enhancing functions using smartphone-style touch capability. The new MFP further enhances the personalized user experience by enabling the creation of quick access shortcuts on the home screen. This facilitates easy navigation across different functions, resulting in improved efficiency and productivity gains. Additionally, the ‘Recent Jobs’ feature allows users to conveniently track and manage their documents with enhanced ease and control.

With advanced connectivity features, like WiFi, Air Print, Bluetooth, NFC, or QR code, users can easily connect their mobile devices to enterprise workflows and print capabilities ensuring seamless access regardless of their location. The BP-C533WD is also equipped with a top-notch security system and data protection features that safeguard both the device and the data it handles, ensuring the confidential data is kept secure. Furthermore, the SHARP Application Portal facilitates remote firmware and application updates ensuring that the MFP is always kept up-to-date.

SHARP has also introduced a range of smart interactive displays combining the impressive 4K Ultra-HD resolution and an intuitive “Pen-on-Paper” user experience. The new series including PN-LC752 and PN-LC862 interactive whiteboards are the perfect choice for busy office environments, boardrooms, classrooms, and training sessions that require quick, responsive operation and smart, integrated collaboration tools. Designed with a focus on zero-bonding technology, the advanced interactive whiteboard allows recognition up to 20 touch points simultaneously for interactive presentations. Featuring a 3840 x 2160 Ultra High Definition (UHD) 4K resolution display, the new whiteboard not only serves as an interactive display but also doubles as multifunctional digital whiteboard. Both PN-LC752 and PN-LC862 interactive whiteboard can easily connect to various types of sources with its HDMI, and VGA connectors, providing for seamless integration with devices such as laptops, mobile phones, and tablets. In addition, the Whiteboard also features inbuilt Wifi & Cast abilities.

Moreover, SHARP’s new whiteboard line-up boasts USB-C connectivity, offering a simple and seamless connectivity experience. With a single USB-C cable, the whiteboard can transmit data, video/audio output, and power delivery, streamlining the connection process and ensuring hassle-free operation.

The new BP-C533WD Multifunctional Printer and interactive whiteboard PN-LC752 and PN-LC862 will be available at SHARP offices and dealerships across the country. The new MFP will be priced at MRP 2,72, 500 (INR) while the prices for the interactive whiteboard start at MRP 4,92,500 (INR).

MVJ College of Engineering Marks Founder’s Day 2024 with Recognition and Awards for Excellence

5th July 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  MVJ College of Engineering Celebrated Founder’s Day to mark the 96th birth anniversary of Dr. M. V. Jayaraman, the Founder and Mentor of the MVJ Group of Institutions. The event, held in the college auditorium named after Dr. Jayaraman, commenced at 10:15 a.m.

The ceremony began with a tribute video honoring Dr. Jayaraman’s legacy, allowing the audience to reflect on his impactful journey.

Padma Bhushan Dr. B. N. Suresh, the Chief Guest, graced the occasion. Dr. Suresh, who has been the Chairman of the Board of Governors at MVJCE since 2015, is the Founder Director and Chancellor of IIST, Trivandrum. His distinguished career includes roles as a Distinguished Professor at ISRO HQ, Bangalore, Former Satish Dhawan Chair of Engineering Eminence, INAE, Delhi, Past President, Indian National Academy of Engineering, New Delhi, Former Director, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, VSSC, Trivandrum; and Former Member, Space Commission.

In his keynote address, Dr. Suresh highlighted the growth and achievements of MVJCE since its inception in 1982. He spoke highly of Dr. MV Jayaraman and further, appealed to the students to take forward his legacy. Harping on the importance of the tinkering lab and innovation cell, Dr. B. N. Suresh announced that MVJCE is bursting with potential to be realized by the time it comes close to its golden jubilee celebrations. He added that the Project Expo 2024 at MVJCE was a grand success and that engineers, who can work in interdisciplinary fields, are indispensable. Moreover, he stressed that building gadgets and having inclusive management are some of the ways that students can reach the zenith of innovation.

Well-deserved students were awarded certificates and cash awards in various categories including Autonomous rank holders, College topper, year-wise toppers, students obtaining more than 4 outstanding grades in the last year’s examinations, Vinay Deepak Memorial award to the topper in Mechanical Engineering, Best outgoing student, gold medals in sports, state-level championship winners, best players in various sports, and students excelling in cultural activities such as Music, Dance, Fine arts, and Theatre. An award was also instituted by alumnus Mr. Amitesh Rahul, Director of ADSAT ENGINEERS PRIVATE LIMITED and a 1987 batch Electronics and Communication Engineering graduate, for the 1st rank holder in Electronics and Communication Engineering.

In total, 108 students and 6 faculty members were honored, receiving cash prizes amounting to Rs. 5 lakhs. Additionally, faculty members from the PUC college who achieved outstanding results were awarded appreciation certificates.

This celebration reaffirmed MVJ College of Engineering’s commitment to recognizing and fostering excellence in academia, sports, and cultural endeavors.

The event recognized the achievements of well-deserving students across various categories. Awards and cash prizes were distributed as follows: Autonomous Rank Holders: 18 students received Rs. 10,000 each; Vinay Deepak Memorial Award: 1 student received Rs. 15,000; College Topper – UG: 1 student received Rs. 15,000; Year-wise Toppers: 6 students received Rs. 2,500 each; More S grades in SEE exams – Outstanding Grades: 1 student with 7 S grades received Rs. 7,000, 3 students with 6 S grades received Rs. 6,000 each, 4 students with 5 S grades received Rs. 5,000 each; Best Outgoing Student: 1 student received Rs. 10,000; Sports Awards: Gold Medalists: 6 students received Rs. 3,500 each, Silver Medalist: 1 student received Rs. 2,000, National Level Selection/Best Player: 12 students received Rs. 2,500 each, Kho-Kho Women Team Winners: 15 students received Rs. 1,000 each; Cultural Clubs: RaagAbhinaya (Theatre Club): 11 students received Rs. 2,000 each, Dhwani (Music Club): 15 students received Rs. 2,000 each, Nrityatrix (Dance Club): 1 student received Rs. 2,000, AAKRITI Club (Fine Arts Club): 2 students received Rs. 2,000 each, Toastmasters Club: 3 students received Rs. 2,000 each, TedX MVJCE: 7 students received Rs. 2,000 each; Funded Projects: 3 projects received Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 10,000, 2No.s; Faculty Paper Publications: Q1 Journals: 2 faculty members received Rs. 5,000 each, Q2 Journals: 1 faculty member received Rs. 2,500.

LOGIC Partners with Ingram Micro India to Expand Its Reach Across the Country

5th July 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  LOGIC, a pioneer and leader in AV solutions in India, has announced a strategic partnership with industry powerhouse Ingram Micro for the nationwide distribution of its top-tier Display Solutions and AV products LOGIC, known for providing innovative and cutting-edge products, has not only been evolving but also moving beyond marketing depending on the needs of the hour without compromising the quality. LOGIC’s products and services are designed with attention to detail to offer redefined experiences. Their comprehensive display solutions include LED video walls, interactive displays, digital signage displays, professional displays, kiosks, and a wide range of AV accessories to seamlessly integrate your entire visual communication system. The collaboration with Ingram Micro signifies a momentous stride in LOGIC’s seventeen-year journey within the audio-visual industry.

Ingram Micro, renowned for its pioneering distribution platform in India known as Ingram Micro Xvantage™, brings novel business paradigms and state-of-the-art technology to the market. This alliance enhances LOGIC’s distribution prospects in the audiovisual sector, prioritizing efficiency, expansion, and enhanced client relations. Leveraging Ingram Micro’s expertise and reach, LOGIC is now perfectly positioned to penetrate deep into target realms and drive desired outcomes competently.

Expressing his happiness about the partnership, Mr. Pankaj Bellad, Business Head, Logic, said, “Today, we are delighted to announce a landmark partnership with Ingram Micro, marking a significant stride in our brand’s journey. With Ingram Micro on board, we are poised to expand our footprint across the nation, reaching customers in every corner with our innovative products. This collaboration represents more than just a distribution deal; it’s a testament to our shared values and vision for delivering quality and convenience to consumers nationwide. Together, we look forward to charting new territories, forging lasting relationships, and making a positive impact on communities across the country.”

Mr. Anurag Singh, Director – Advanced Solutions, Ingram Micro India, is confident about the new partnership, as he said, “As LOGIC continues to expand its boundaries and redefine the AV landscape, the partnership with Ingram Micro reinforces its dedication to providing premier display solutions and AV accessories to customers across the world. They are driving a groundbreaking change in the AV industry, granting customers unprecedented access to state-of-the-art technology and exceptional service. And we are confident that our collaboration will raise the bar for industry standards, ensuring that customers’ ever-evolving needs are met in a constantly shifting technological environment.”

Celebrating Excellence: Highlights from the BBG Talent Factory Awards Ceremony

5th July 2024  Hyderabad, Telangana, India  The BBG Talent Factory Awards Ceremony, the prestigious Om Convention in Narsinghi, was a night to remember. This event honored the exceptional achievements and contributions of BBG associates across various categories, recognizing their dedication and hard work. With Ritu Varma taking center stage to present the awards, the evening became a platform for celebrating the diverse talents within the organization and inspiring others to strive for excellence.

The ceremony featured not only the presentation of awards but also an array of lucky draws, offering attendees the chance to win coveted prizes, making the evening truly unforgettable. Among the many highlights, the BBG Bangarutalli program stood out for its exemplary service towards girl child empowerment.

BBG Bangarutalli, a non-profit organization founded by Mr. Mallikarjuna Reddy in 2019, is dedicated to empowering girls’ education in rural and educationally backward areas of India, particularly in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Mrs. Neeraja Ankapalli and Mrs. Kasturi Usha played a pivotal role in the BBG Talent Factory Awards Ceremony, taking the stage to articulate the vision, mission, and goals of BBG. They emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Mrs. Neeraja Ankapalli highlighted BBG’s vision to create an inclusive environment where every child has the opportunity to receive a quality education, irrespective of their socio-economic background. She passionately spoke about the mission to not only educate but also to empower girl children by providing them with the necessary tools and support to succeed. Mrs. Kasturi Usha elaborated on the goals of BBG Bangarutalli, which include expanding educational initiatives to reach more children, promoting holistic development through mental and physical health programs, and engaging communities in the educational process. She reiterated BBG’s aims to mobilize communities and empower 2,00,000 girl children by 2040, with a focus on sustainable and impactful growth.

Ritu Varma took center stage at a prestigious award show, where she eloquently shared her thoughts on the vital role education plays in personal and societal development. Ritu spoke warmly about her mother’s influence, attributing much of her success to the strong educational foundation her mother provided. Ritu expressed her honor at being part of the event, highlighting the critical role educators play in shaping future generations. A significant moment during the ceremony was when actress Ritu Varma handed over a cheque of 15 lakhs from BBG to the BBG Bangarutalli Foundation. This donation will further the foundation’s mission of empowering Bangarutallis. To date, the program has empowered 1,70,000 children.

Inspiring Initiatives

Over the past academic year, BBG coaches Mrs. Neeraja Ankapalli and Mrs. Kasturi Usha, under the leadership of Mr. P. Srinivasarao, have motivated 40,000 girl children in various government schools, emphasizing the importance of education, mental health, and physical fitness. In the coming academic year, BBG Bangarutalli aims to expand its reach by visiting more government primary and high schools to continue empowering girls with essential knowledge and skills.

Recognizing Excellence

The 444th Talent Factory Awards symbolized a story of perseverance, dedication, and excellence, reflecting BBG Associates’ commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving greatness. The magnitude of the event was evident in the staggering number of awards presented—512 in total.

As the curtains drew to a close on the BBG Talent Factory Awards Ceremony, the evening left a lasting impression, reminding everyone of the importance of recognition, celebration, and camaraderie. By honouring achievements and rewarding excellence, the event not only celebrated individual successes but also reinforced the spirit of teamwork and collaboration that defines the BBG community.

Emoha Partners with Aditya Birla Health Insurance to Provide Holistic Eldercare Solutions

5th July 2024  Delhi NCR, India  Emoha, India’s premier eldercare brand, celebrates five years of revolutionizing the eldercare space with the launch of a groundbreaking initiative. Fuelled by recent funding, Emoha is poised to extend its reach to the senior citizen segment of India’s population. In a landmark move, Emoha partnered with Aditya Birla Health Insurance Co. Limited (“ABHICL”), the health insurance joint venture of Aditya Birla Capital, a leading diversified financial services conglomerate in India.

This collaboration will empower ABHICL to offer personalized senior care solutions to its corporate clients and group mediclaim policyholders, thereby extending Emoha’s comprehensive services to a wider audience across the nation. Through this partnership, Emoha reinforces its commitment of providing exceptional care and support to every elder in need and aims to transform the landscape of eldercare in India, championing independence and dignity for the aging population.

The collaboration with ABHI will empower Emoha to forge a path toward a future where senior care is not only accessible but also tailored to address the unique needs of each individual in the family.

Strengthened by recent investments, the company is poised for rapid growth, having raised USD 11mn in the Pre-Series B round at the platform level. With its propositions, Emoha aims to empower both seniors to live more independently and working generations to provide optimal care to their loved ones.

Talking about recent collaborations Mr. Saumyajit Roy, Co-founder & CEO of Emoha added, “Our new strategic partnerships with ABHICL will allow us to significantly expand our reach and offerings for the elderly across India, ensuring holistic care for their emotional, physical, and financial well-being. Group mediclaim policies typically cover the employee, their spouse, and children, but often exclude the parents of the employee. Emoha bridges this gap by offering care to the employee’s parents. The recent funding is a testament to the confidence in our mission and approach. This investment will fuel our expansion plans, enabling us to forge more strategic partnerships and introduce innovative service offerings. We are committed to revolutionizing the eldercare landscape, ensuring that every senior citizen in India has access to personalized care that fosters independence and dignity.”

Under this partnership, ABHICL will extend the benefits offered by Emoha to its group mediclaim policyholders, thereby ensuring complete healthcare coverage for the parents of its employees.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Mayank Bathwal, CEO of Aditya Birla Health Insurance Co. Limited, said, “We are happy to collaborate with Emoha and integrate their innovative services into our offerings for our group mediclaim policyholders. By combining Emoha’s tech-driven personalized care model with our comprehensive health insurance solutions, we will further enhance the standard of elderly care and ensure holistic coverage for the entire family.”

Talking about investments and future plans Mr. Pankaj Arora Chief Growth Officer (CGO), Emoha added, “Young adults often face immense stress juggling work and caring for aging loved ones. Emoha is here to change that. With a mission to revolutionize eldercare in India, we’re committed to serving 2 million elders this year. By partnering with corporations, we offer tailored eldercare solutions, empowering employees with peace of mind to focus on their careers and personal lives. Our comprehensive services ensure their loved ones receive high-quality care, fostering independence and dignity. This creates a win-win: employees gain peace of mind, boosting productivity and engagement, while companies benefit from a happier, more focused workforce. Together, let’s build a future where eldercare is a shared journey, creating a more supportive and compassionate society for all.”

Emoha provides comprehensive in-home and doorstep services to seniors, empowering them to live independently and with dignity. Since its inception in 2019, Emoha’s community-centric and technology-driven approach has transformed the eldercare landscape, touching the lives of over 60,000 seniors across 120 cities in India. By offering essential support and companionship, Emoha ensures the safety and well-being of the elderly through a network of dedicated caregivers and specialized services. The company’s expansive reach includes organizing thousands of events and life-saving initiatives, making it a trusted partner for families and a frontrunner in eldercare solutions.

Bajaj Markets Simplifies Credit Health Monitoring with CIBIL Score Check

5th July 2024  Pune, Maharashtra, India  Bajaj Markets offers a valuable service that allows individuals to effortlessly review their credit health at no cost. The free CIBIL score check is a user-friendly option for users to assess their credit standing. One can use the insights from such checks to identify the various financial products they may be eligible for.

Here are some benefits of checking the CIBIL score on Bajaj Markets:

• Seamless Process: The online platform ensures a smooth and seamless experience for users
• Stay Informed: Regular updates on one’s credit score help individuals stay informed about their financial standing
• Insightful Analysis: Accessing one’s credit profile aids in making informed financial decisions
• No Impact on Credit Score: The credit check on Bajaj Markets does not affect the individual’s credit score, enabling worry-free monitoring

While the website is a great way to get instant access to one’s CIBIL score, the Bajaj Markets app takes it one step further. On the app, individuals can get a detailed credit health report which consists of information on active loan accounts and credit cards.

This report also consists of the ‘DID YOU KNOW’ and ‘IMPROVE YOUR SCORE’ widgets. The widgets provide interesting information on Credit Scores and tips to enhance one’s CIBIL score, respectively. In addition, the report also has a section that displays personalized offers that one can get on the platform.

By leveraging the free credit health report on Bajaj Markets, individuals can make informed decisions regarding their finances. In addition to CIBIL score checks, users can explore a wide array of financial products on the platform. They can check various investment opportunities, insurance policies, credit cards, and loan options on the Bajaj Markets website or app.

Harpic and News18’s ‘Mission Swachhta Aur Paani’ Marks 1400 Days of Promoting Nationwide Hygiene Awareness

5th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  In a shift that once seemed unthinkable, discussing toilets has become a regular part of conversations nationwide. Mission Swachhta Aur Paani campaign, a collaborative effort by Harpic and News 18, has been at the forefront of this change, marking over 1400 days of continuous engagement. A first-of-its-kind awareness campaign, the initiative normalized discussions on good toilet behavior across the country, touching millions of citizens, and bringing together leaders from all walks of life. Integrating culture, comedy, muppets, technology, music, and education, Harpic Mission Swachhta Aur Paani recently celebrated the completion of its third edition, setting the stage for scaling it up in the future. The milestone coincided with the 10th anniversary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious Swachh Bharat Mission.

The celebration saw participation from Mission Swachhta Aur Paani campaign ambassador, Akshay Kumar; Hon’ble Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat & Mansukh Mandaviya; Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, and other prominent figures advocating for a safe and healthy Bharat.

Aligned with the Swachh Bharat Mission and UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, Harpic & News18’s Mission Swachhta Aur Paani has united various stakeholders – policymakers, cultural icons, celebrities, thought leaders, development sector professionals, water and public health experts, and academia. The campaign reinforced the importance of sanitation for clean and accessible toilets along with inculcating toilet-appropriate behavior, particularly in young children. A remarkable feature of this campaign has been leveraging popular culture to simplify the message for mass consumption. A stand-up by Gaurav Kapoor, a song about health and sanitation by Grammy winner Ricky Kej, a message by Akshay Kumar, and a short film like ‘Kar Lo Karmon Ka Uddhar’ appeal to common people, make them think and inspire behavior and attitudinal shift.

Highlighting the significance of a Swachh Samaj for elevating India’s standing, Akshay Kumar said, “A clean society is the foundation of a healthier and better nation. Mission Swachhta Aur Paani has evolved into a ‘Jan Andolan’ (people’s movement) for sanitation security and focused on building awareness for right to dignity. I urge each one of you to continue supporting us and join us to drive advocacy for clean toilets to build a cleaner India.”

Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, emphasized the lasting impact of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, asserting, “India has witnessed a revolutionary transformation in sanitation and hygiene. Over one lakh villages have been declared completely clean based on various parameters. Our persistent efforts under the Swachhta Abhiyan are poised to significantly elevate both the National Health Index and GPI.”

Hon’ble Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Mansukh Mandaviya, highlighted the critical role of good sanitation in maintaining good health, crediting the Swachh Bharat Mission for spreading the message of health and hygiene nationwide. He commended the Prime Minister for ensuring dignity for women, sanitation workers, marginalized communities, and others through this campaign.

During the celebration, Ravi Bhatnagar, Director of External Affairs & Partnerships – SOA, Reckitt, said, “Since its inception, Harpic Mission Swachhta Aur Paani has been working towards integrating a culture of cleanliness in society, particularly among youth, ensuring clean toilets become second nature. Events like G20, which championed ‘India for the World,’ and the profound philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam have deeply inspired and reinforced our commitment. At Reckitt, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of universal sanitation as we continue spreading the message of toilet hygiene and sanitation, helping build healthy habits among masses. While our progress has been commendable, we acknowledge there is more to be done and this marks just the beginning of our journey towards a Swachch Bharat.”

Avinash Kaul, CEO of Network18 (Broadcast) & MD of A + E Networks, expressed pride in spearheading a high-impact campaign on toilet-appropriate behavior, reaching millions across India over the past three years.

“As India strives towards the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat-2047’, establishing itself as a developed global power, our commitment as a responsible media organization to support and contribute to this goal is unwavering. Through initiatives like Mission Swachhta Aur Paani, we are dedicated to promoting mass social awareness programs with a transformative agenda. Network18 will continue to encourage efforts for a Swachh and Swasth Bharat,” he said.

Launched in 2019, the Mission Swachhta Aur Paani campaign worked around the core theme of ‘Healthy Hum, Jab Saaf Rakhen Toilet Hardam,’ which is designed to inspire behavioral change and create a lasting commitment to cleanliness among people. The campaign has made a significant impact nationwide, leveraging the extensive reach of Network 18, spanning 14 channels in 15 languages across 26 states, reaching over 69 crore individuals monthly, in addition to its digital channels reaching millions more.

SKA Arcadia: SKA Group’s Vision for Sustainable Development

5th July 2024  Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India  SKA Arcadia, by the renowned SKA Group, emerges as a beacon of architectural brilliance and visionary planning in Ghaziabad’s commercial real estate realm. Located along the main entrance of Wave City on NH-24, the commercial project is a testament to modern construction with a vision for sustainable development in the region. The project is based within the first Indian pre-certified Platinum-rated Green township, which promises to redefine the retail landscape with state-of-the-art facilities and architecture, offering visitors an exceptional retail landscape. The project’s strategic location ensures easy accessibility for all customers from various parts of the region, making it a coveted destination for locals and commuters.

Furthermore, SKA Arcadia boasts a prime location advantage and a gamut of features that set it apart. Its two-sided open plot and a 150—and 40-meter front-facing main road ensure maximum footfall at the project. The project encompasses an array of offerings, including retail outlets and high-street shops, wide corridors, and double-height shops on the ground floor, promising a spacious shopping experience. Hence, the project’s modern architectural design and prominent amenities offer every retail outlet adequate space to present its products and services.

In addition, one of the key highlights of SKA Arcadia is its unparalleled connectivity. Its proximity to the 14-lane NH 24 Wave City ensures swift connectivity to Noida. Also, the catchment area in the vicinity includes densely populated residential townships like Wave City, Aditya World City, and Jaipuria, positioning SKA Arcadia into a flourishing market. Further, it is within a considerable distance from Delhi, making it a desirable choice for businesses seeking a central location. This prime location not only enhances its accessibility but also opens a gateway for business opportunities to engage in the broader market base.

Besides its strategic location, SKA Arcadia is well-connected to the posh localities of Ghaziabad and Indirapuram, further augmenting its appeal as a commercial hub. The project is 1 minute from the 8-lane Delhi-Meerut Expressway and 5 minutes from the proposed metro station. Further, it is 10 minutes from the Eastern Peripheral Expressway and 20 minutes drive from Noida Sec-62 and Greater Noida West. People living in Raj Nagar Extension can reach SKA Arcadia within 25 minutes, and those living in Anand Vihar, Noida Sec-18, and near Akshardham Temple can enjoy reach here within 35 minutes. Thus, this connectivity not only ensures a steady flow of footfall but also positions SKA Arcadia as an investment opportunity for businesses looking to expand their reach.

SKA Arcadia boasts state-of-the-art facilities that not only enhance the retail experiences of businesses but also elevate the customer experience. From reliable and fast Wi-Fi to fine-dine restaurants and a food court, it caters to the diverse needs of customers. The facility of round-the-clock power backup, escalators, elevators, and multi-level mechanical parking ensures convenience and comfort for both shoppers and retailers alike. Moreover, its smart features, such as advanced surveillance, smart metering, fibre optic connectivity, automated lighting, and smart parking, also offer a secure and technologically advanced environment, setting a new standard for commercial developments in the region.

However, what truly sets SKA Arcadia apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. As the world becomes eco-conscious, SKA Arcadia takes proactive measures to integrate sustainable development in every aspect. Initiatives like sustainable construction practices and designs, energy-efficient systems, green building practices, waste reduction strategies, sewage treatment plants, rainwater harvesting, and many other features, the project is curated to minimize its carbon footprint while maximizing efficiency.

Moreover, these sustainable practices underscore the SKA Group’s vision for sustainable development that extends beyond the confines of the project itself. Thus, the project aims to create a harmonious ecosystem that benefits everyone. It also ensures maximum space utilization and has incorporated amenities such as energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems. Located amidst a lush green landscape with pop-up fountains, the project aims to reduce the building’s carbon footprint and minimize operational costs.

As SKA Arcadia continues to take shape, it is a testament to SKA Group’s unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. The group envisions a future where every project weaves a story of its commitment to quality, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility, enhancing the lives of its residents and the wider community. SKA Arcadia is not just a commercial project; it sets a new benchmark for the industry and inspires future generations to build a greener tomorrow.

EU, Smile Foundation Unveil SIFFCY 11th Edition at Cannes

5th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  The 11th edition of the Smile International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFFCY) was officially unveiled at the ongoing 77th Cannes Film Festival in the presence of dignitaries, industry leaders, filmmakers, cinema and media personalities from across the globe.

Smile Foundation has been organizing SIFFCY in partnership with the European Union. The annual unique film festival for children is organized across 100 locations of India in a hybrid mode, which makes SIFFCY the largest film festival for children and youth in India.

The active participation of the European Union in SIFFCY is aimed at facilitating cultural exchange between the citizens of India and the European Union countries, due to which a sense of understanding, respect, and global brotherhood will be strengthened. The sense of belonging that arises between people through the exchange of culture, art, and ideas is beneficial for children and youth, who will shape the future course of humanity.

SIFFCY is an initiative of Smile Foundation to entertain, engage, educate, and empower young minds. Smile Foundation believes that meaningful work of art, especially good cinema, not only entertains but also leave an indelible impression on young minds. As a result, children and youth catalyze a positive change thanks to their way of thinking and their sense of duty towards society. Good cinema is a powerful medium to depict reality and inculcate values. A meaningful film becomes an interesting and engaging tool to encourage discussion among the youth about important personal, social, moral and global issues too.

The 11th edition of SIFFCY, scheduled for later this year, aims at bringing 150 curated films from 50 countries to the young Indian audience. Path-breaking films, filmmakers, and creative talents from across the globe are awarded too under various categories during SIFFCY.

Unbridled access to a plethora of content online can hurt young minds, which is a universal phenomenon. Such exposure can result in behavioral and emotional problems, safety concerns, reduced quality of sleep, and even weakened social skills. Instances of loneliness, a sense of insecurity, violence, and aggression have become common traits of a teenager too. Left unattended, these can hamper them even when they grow up. One of the primary missions behind SIFFCY has been to make good content and creative work available to children, which in turn can help them build their emotional intelligence, empathy, opinion-making ability, creative cultivation of mind and develop an overall positive outlook towards life ahead.

Smile Foundation has been representing good cinema for children and youth at Cannes, especially for the young audience, for 15 years now. Incidentally, ‘I am Kalam’, a film produced by Santanu Mishra, Co-founder of Smile Foundation, made waves at the Cannes Festival in the past too. I am Kalam heralded making of films especially for the young Indian audience of the 21st century.

Santanu Mishra, SIFFCY Chairman and Producer of the much-acclaimed film ‘I am Kalam’, states that childhood is the decisive age of human life – the lessons we learn, the habits we make as children, it stays with us forever. Therefore, we must sensitise our youngsters with a positive value system from the very beginning which will help them become kind and responsible citizens.

During the 77th Cannes Film Fest this year, Smile Foundation represented the cause of good cinema at the Bharat Pavilion. Hosted each year at the prestigious Festival by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, Government of India, Bharat’s participation is spearheaded by the National Film Development Corporation as the nodal agency and FICCI as the industry partner. Bharat Pavilion marks India’s continued commitment to showcasing its rich cinematic heritage and fostering international collaborations with the global film fraternity.

The Bharat Pavilion at Cannes serves as a hub for networking, collaboration, promotion of Indian Cinema on the global stage.

As the nation with the largest young population with a thriving socio-economic milieu, India has been earning expectation and prominence due to its philosophical contributions, thoughts, and ideas.

The Bharat Pavilion serves as a dynamic platform, providing a gateway to the diverse landscape of Indian films, talent, and industry opportunities, and is set to host a series of scintillating panel discussions and networking sessions during the course of the 77th Cannes Film Festival.

A panel discussion titled “Children’s Films and Festivals: A global perspective” was moderated by SIFFCY director, Jitendra Mishra, wherein stalwarts of the domain from across Europe shared the stage. Another session on Indian Film Festivals was also held at the Bharat Pavilion with the panel represented by the SIFFCY Director.