Author: Rabindra

Guns to Glamour: Former Army Captain Rahul Bali walks the Red Carpet at Cannes to make India Proud

New Delhi, Delhi, India The 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival saw an extraordinary Indian fervor with Indian Actors, Filmmakers & Influencers shining the most on the Red Carpet that was full of myriad Indian Flavours.

The iconic film festival which wrapped on May 25, saw a number of unprecedented firsts for India from Payal Kapadia’s film winning the Grand Prix and Anasuya Sengupta bagging the Best Actress Award to Captain Rahul Bali becoming the first Indian Army Veteran turned Filmmaker to walk on the world’s most glamourous Red Carpet spreading the fragrance of India in the French Riviera like never before.

An ex-Army officer turned Filmmaker Captain Rahul Bali debuted at the Cannes Film Festival wearing a traditional Indian Band Gala Suit with the Indian Flag pinned on his chest proudly flaunting the power of India to officially launch the First Look Poster of his film – LOVE IN VIETNAM at the Bharat Pavilion.

Based on the bestseller book ‘Madonna In A Fur Coat,’ the India-Vietnam collaboration film stars Shantanu Maheshwari and Avneet Kaur along with popular Vietnamese star Kha Ngan.

It is the first-ever INDIA -VIETNAMESE co-production Movie that is being produced with the support of Embassies and Consulate Generals of India and Vietnam in the respective countries.

Written & Directed by Rahhat Shah Kazmi the film is Produced by Omung Kumar, Rahhat Shah Kazmi, Captain Rahul Bali, Abhishek Ankur, Co-produced by Tariq Khan, Zeba Sajid, Samten Hills, Dalat, Associate Producer Vikas Sharma with Vietnam Airlines being the official Airline partner.

Captain Rahul Bali, a well-known name in the international festival circuits is an award-winning Indian Film Festival Curator who has been successfully spreading the fragrance of India globally by curating Indian Film Festivals and creating synergies for cultural cooperation between India and the world.

Having turned Producer with Love in Vietnam, Captain Rahul Bali is confident that this landmark Co-production movie slated to be shot in several exotic locations across Vietnam & India would surely be the starting point of a great cinematic relationship between the two great countries and would open a lot of opportunities and synergies between India and Vietnam.

HDFC Credila Education Loan Live on Bajaj Markets

Pune, Maharashtra, India Bajaj Markets augments its education loan offerings through a partnership with HDFC Credila. This collaboration signifies a significant step in providing lending solutions tailored to the unique needs of students and their families, amplifying the choices available to them.

A pioneer in the field, HDFC Credila brings its expertise and a diverse range of education loan products to Bajaj Markets, fostering convenient access to financing solutions for international academic pursuits.

With HDFC Credila Education Loan now available on Bajaj Markets, students can gain access to a maximum loan amount of Rs. 75 Lakhs for unsecured loans, with no upper limit on secured loans. The competitive interest rates, starting at 10.25% per annum, ensure affordability, making quality education within reach.

Individuals can reap the benefit of a flexible repayment tenure, extending up to 15 years. The eligibility of the applicant is determined based on their academic achievements, chosen institute/course/country, and their co-borrower’s financial profile. The digital application journey, coupled with faster disbursal ensures a seamless borrowing experience.

The introduction of HDFC Credila Education Loan on Bajaj Markets marks a significant milestone in providing comprehensive financial solutions for educational pursuits. Bajaj Markets reinforces its commitment to variety, transparency, and convenience, reflecting its role as a trusted platform for comparing and applying for loans.

Easwari School of Liberal Arts at SRM University-AP Opens Doors for the Academic Year 2024-25

Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh, India  With an unwavering commitment to setting new benchmarks in liberal arts education in India, SRM University-AP announces the commencement of admissions for the academic year 2024-25 for its highly anticipated Liberal Arts education programs at the prestigious Easwari School of Liberal Arts (ESLA). ESLA is unremittingly invested in the threefold growth of students – intellectual, ethical, and emotional. The students are encouraged to, and trained in, thinking on their own and critically so, and they are encouraged to amass and mobilize resources to enable this form of autonomous thinking. In other words, we are invested, first and foremost, in the ‘cultivation of self’. Aside from these ‘life skills’, we imbue them with career skills that allow them to navigate through the real world with training that is readily employable in the contemporary socio-economic scenario: a rigorous tutelage within and across disciplines, a capacity to communicate with the facility, to think out of the box and be a leader.

A bird’s eye view of SRM University-AP

The Easwari School of Liberal Arts at SRM AP comprises seven dynamic departments, offering a variety of undergraduate and doctoral programs in Literature and Languages, History, Psychology, Economics, Sociology & Anthropology, Politics, and Media Studies. It further offers a wide range of cross-disciplinary majors and minors, allowing students to tailor their education to their unique interests and career aspirations. SRM University-AP combines innovative pedagogy and curriculum, a world-class and committed faculty, and a robust research and entrepreneurship ecosystem with a state-of-the-art institutional infrastructure to offer a truly multidisciplinary, research-intensive academic experience.

Why choose Easwari School of Liberal Arts?

Choosing Easwari School of Liberal Arts as your academic destination is a strategic decision that will open doors to a world of boundless opportunities. As a student, you will find yourself immersed in a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment that challenges you to explore the depths of your academic interests and personal passions.

One key reason to choose the Easwari School of Liberal Arts is its unwavering commitment to excellence. The school prides itself on a socially relevant and innovative curriculum. With a distinguished faculty possessing global experience, they employ imaginative and engaged pedagogic methods to cultivate ethically motivated student ambassadors of tomorrow.

Speaking about the programs, Vice Chancellor of SRM University-AP, Prof. Manoj K Arora, stated, “The Easwari School of Liberal Arts exemplifies our dedication to academic excellence and innovation. With a world-class faculty, a robust and socially relevant curriculum, and cutting-edge pedagogic methods, we are redefining liberal arts education. Our diverse research projects and the unwavering commitment of our leadership team underscore our mission to foster an environment that nurtures critical human skills in our students. Our curricula and pedagogy are designed to cultivate creative and interdisciplinary thinking, equipping our students to address the significant challenges of our time.”

The Study Abroad Programmes (SAP) further enriches our students’ academic journey by offering opportunities to explore higher studies outside India, broadening their global perspectives and enhancing their educational experiences. Our Summer Immersion Program, Anubhav, along with several internship programs spread across three to four years facilitate students’ exploration of their own country and society with a deeper immersion and engagement with the Indian socio-economic and politico-cultural conditions.

Campus life at Easwari School of Liberal Arts

The vibrant campus life offers a diverse array of opportunities for you to engage, explore, and grow, both academically and personally. From student-led clubs and organizations to cultural festivals and recreational activities like ALOHA, Infinitus, Natyaswara, Film Gala, Udgam, and many more, the campus is a hub of vibrant energy and community. You will have the chance to immerse yourself in a wide range of extracurricular pursuits, from performing arts and sports to community service and entrepreneurial ventures. These experiences will not only enrich your time at Easwari but also equip you with valuable skills and a well-rounded perspective.

Moreover, the residential facilities provide a comfortable and nurturing environment, fostering a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie among our students. The on-campus housing options, complemented by modern amenities and a diverse community, create a home away from home where you can forge lasting connections and engage in meaningful discussions with your peers.

“As our world navigates a significant technological shift and an immense ecological crisis, the need for a comprehensive liberal arts education has never been more critical. At ESLA, we offer more than just education; we provide an environment that nurtures your intellectual, emotional, and ethical growth. Our world-class faculty, robust and socially relevant curriculum, innovative pedagogic methods, and diverse research projects are all designed to equip you with not just technological expertise but also a critical sociological imagination, a problem-solving orientation, and a cultivated ethical sensibility. Let’s explore together the career and life trajectories that a liberal arts education at SRM AP can open up for you.” Prof. Vishnupad, Dean, Easwari School of Liberal Arts.

Admission process for the academic year 2024-25

The admission process for the academic year 2024-25 at Easwari School of Liberal Arts is now open. It is designed to be comprehensive and inclusive, ensuring that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds can join the vibrant community.

To apply, you must submit your application and the required documents within the specified timeline. The admission team at Easwari will carefully review your application, considering your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal statement, to assess your fit and potential for success within the school’s dynamic environment.

In addition to the standard application process, Easwari School of Liberal Arts also offers a range of merit-based scholarships and financial aid options to support your educational aspirations. These opportunities are designed to ensure that cost is not a barrier to accessing the exceptional education and resources available. For more details, visit srmap.edu.in/indian-admission.

Join us at SRM University-AP’s Easwari School of Liberal Arts to embark on an educational journey that shapes not just careers but lives. Admissions are now open. Apply today to become part of a transformative academic community dedicated to excellence and innovation.

Truecaller surpasses 400 million active users

Bangalore, Karnataka, India Truecaller, the leading global platform for verifying contacts and blocking unwanted communication is proud to announce the very significant milestone of 400 million users monthly. Truecaller continues to grow rapidly in many different geographic markets and has since 31 March this year grown with 10.1 million users.

“Reaching 400 million active users each month is something we are, of course, very proud of, but at the same time, we know that the need for a solution like Truecaller is significantly greater. The problem of unwanted communication, spam, and fraud over the phone is unfortunately only growing for both individuals and businesses. New technology and increased opportunities for fraudsters to make money are driving this development. We continue to develop our app and add new functionality to protect our users before, during, and after a phone call or SMS, says Alan Mamedi, Co-founder and CEO of Truecaller.

Truecaller reported an average of 383.4 million active users per month during the first quarter of 2024 and at the end of the quarter, the number of monthly active users was 389.9 million.

Truecaller will continue to report the average number of monthly and daily users on a quarterly basis in connection with interim reports.

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between Z Consulting, LLC and The Bridge

Aurora, CO, July 02, 2024 — Z Consulting is a boutique consulting firm focused on helping companies transform their business practices to achieve ultimate effectiveness and efficiency, doing so at their acceptable pace of change. They offer their clients solutions in all fields of management consulting: strategy, organization/culture design, processes and change management.

The Bridge is a team of innovative strategy and technology consulting professionals who come together to empower leaders to drive remarkable progress in transforming their teams, organizations, and industries.

“Over the last 15+ years, Deb has built Z Consulting into a nationally recognized leader in the healthcare industry. The strategic combination with The Bridge will allow her to continue to grow the business while leveraging The Bridge’s expertise and innovation. This is a great match between two great companies!” – Kevin Barrett, Transaction Director, Benchmark International

High Commissioner of Malaysia to the Republic of India to Undertake Working visit to Mumbai, 30 – 31 May 2024

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  H.E. Dato’ Muzafar Shah Mustafa, High Commissioner of Malaysia to the Republic of India will be undertaking a working visit to Mumbai from 30th until 31st May 2024. It will be his first visit to Mumbai since assuming his post in October 2023. The High Commissioner of Malaysia is scheduled to pay courtesy calls on H.E. Ramesh Bais, Governor of Maharashtra during the visit. He will also meet with the business community in Mumbai to explore opportunities and exchange views on strengthening economic cooperation between Malaysia and India.

India and Malaysia established bilateral relations in 1957. In terms of trade and investment, both countries signed the Malaysia-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (MICECA) in February 2011. The total bilateral trade volume in 2023 was recorded at USD 16.53 billion. India was Malaysia’s 11th-largest export destination and 12th-largest import source. Within ASEAN, Malaysia ranks as India’s third-largest trading partner. Currently, Malaysia is leading the negotiations for the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) with India to make it more trade-facilitative and beneficial for businesses across the region.

Among the Malaysian companies that currently are operating in Mumbai are Khazanah Malaysia, Petronas Lubricants, Maybank, and MFE Formwork Technology (India) Pvt. Ltd.

Dr Kanans Visvanats FRSC Honoured as Global Researcher of the Year 2024

Riga, Latvia Prof. Dr Kanans Visvanats FRSC is a distinguished academic researcher based in Riga, Latvia. He is known for his significant contributions to various fields of study, particularly in areas such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and environmental science. Dr Kanans Visvanats has a robust academic and research background, often engaging in interdisciplinary projects that bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical applications. His work frequently involves collaboration with international institutions and publication in high-impact scientific journals. Dr Kanans Visvanats FRSC, currently Director at The Institute of Economics of The Latvian Academy of Science has several degrees to his credit. Bachelor of Petroleum Engineering, Masters in Business Management and Doctorate of Philosophy in Business Administration. Garwood Innovation Fellow at Garwood Centre of Open Innovation, Haas School of Business Berkeley University of California.

Dr Kanans Visvanats was felicitated at the power-packed industry gatherings, policy makers & Academia in Mumbai on 18th May 2024. Doyens of the industry debated critical international issues at the Leadership Conclave 2024.

Prof. Dr Kanans Visvanats (Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry) has been recognized for his breakthrough research in oncology, highlighting his significant contributions to cancer research. His work in this field is aimed at developing innovative treatments and improving the understanding of cancer biology. Dr. Vishwanatth has been instrumental in the development of new cancer therapeutics. His research focuses on creating more effective and targeted treatments with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.He has conducted extensive research on identifying and validating biomarkers for early detection and prognosis of various cancers. These biomarkers are crucial for personalized medicine approaches. Dr Kanans Visvanats’s work also explores the mechanisms by which cancers develop resistance to existing therapies. Understanding these mechanisms can lead to the development of strategies to overcome resistance.

Dr Kanans Visvanats ‘s research often focuses on analyzing and developing economic policies that can drive sustainable growth. His work includes evaluating the impact of various economic policies on both national and global scales. He explores the relationship between technological innovation and economic development, studying how advancements in technology can spur economic growth and improve societal well-being. Dr Kanans Visvanats’s work continues to influence the field of oncology, driving forward the development of more effective and personalized cancer therapies.

Prof. Dr Kanans Visvanats FRSC integrates environmental considerations into economic models, advocating for policies that balance economic development with environmental sustainability. Dr Kanans Visvanats has made significant research contributions primarily in the fields of pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and environmental science. His work often focuses on the development of innovative solutions to complex problems, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications. Here are some key highlights of his research contributions and notable publications:

Research Contributions:

Pharmaceutical Innovations:

Dr Kanans Visvanats has been involved in the development of novel drug formulations and delivery systems. His research aims to improve the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals.

Biotechnology Advancements:

He has contributed to the field of biotechnology through his work on genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and the development of biopharmaceuticals. His research often addresses the challenges of producing biologics and vaccines.

Environmental Science:

Dr Kanans Visvanats ‘s research includes studies on environmental pollution, waste management, and sustainable practices. He has worked on projects aimed at reducing industrial pollution and developing eco-friendly technologies.

Current Projects and Collaborations:

Dr Kanans Visvanats is involved in several interdisciplinary projects that aim to address global economic challenges at the Institute of Economics of The Latvian Academy of Sciences. His collaborations often include international institutions, government agencies, and private sector partners, reflecting his commitment to applying research for practical solutions. Dr Kanans Visvanats is a leading researcher & on the board of Directors at the Institute of Economics of the Latvian Academy of Sciences. His role at this prestigious institution underscores his significant contributions to economic research and his influence in the academic community. Here are some key aspects of his work and contributions:

International Trade and Economics:

His research also delves into international trade dynamics, examining how trade policies and agreements affect economic relations between countries. Dr. Kannan Vishwanatth is a passionate researcher with about 25 years of experience in Pharmaceutical and International Trade. He has received The Albert Schweitzer Medal For Science, The Malcolm Adiseshiah Award for Distinguished Studies 2020, and The Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Excellence Award For Medicine. He Was Awarded the Academic Professional Award at the American College of Dubai in UAE. He has co-authored and filed 15 world patents on products and various non-infringing processes in Anti-Malarial and Anti-Cancer products from Herbal Extracts with expertise in Licensing, Business Development, API, Generics, and Finished Doses. Dr. Kannan Vishwanatth is a global Citizen & a strong believer in Corporate Social Responsibilities. Dr. Kannan Vishwanatth is a top academic researcher at the Garwood Innovation Fellow at Garwood Centre of Open Innovation, Haas School of Business Berkeley University of California & a Member of the Council at the Institute of Economics of The Latvian Academy of Sciences Riga. Dr. Vishwanatth further pursued higher studies at the University of Azteca European Programs. Having mastered Chemical Engineering, Vishwanath started his entrepreneurial journey a decade ago and formed a successful mid-sized pharmaceutical company with a major thrust on API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient). Dr. Kannan Vishwanatth has floated Dr Ashleys Herbals Limited, an independent herbal research firm that will function as a pioneer institute in the area of research, education, conservation, and popularization of Ayurveda medicinal plants.

Egis Leads the Way in Aviation Infrastructure Development Inaugurating Three Strategic Airport Projects in India

New Delhi, Delhi, India Egis, a global leader in the consulting, construction engineering and mobility sectors, has announced the successful completion of three major airport infrastructure projects in India. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the new integrated passenger terminal buildings at Trichy Airport, Pune Airport, and Lucknow Airport, greatly enhancing capacity, energy efficiency and passenger experience.

Sandeep Gulati, Managing Director, Egis South Asia said, “This achievement signifies our commitment to excellence and innovation in the aviation infrastructure sector. Egis expresses gratitude to all stakeholders and contributors for their invaluable support in achieving these milestones. Special thanks to the project site team and contributors inside and outside egis.”

Lucknow International Airport

Lucknow and Pune International Airports
On 10th March 2024, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, along with other esteemed dignitaries inaugurated two new passenger terminal buildings at Lucknow and Pune airports. Egis’ project management consultancy services at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow ensured seamless execution, resulting in a terminal equipped with seven passenger boarding bridges, and 76 check-in counters.

At Lohegaon International Airport in Pune, the new terminal features ten passenger boarding bridges and 72 check-in counters. Egis’ comprehensive design and project management consultancy services facilitated the creation of terminal buildings with cutting-edge facilities and captivating aesthetics. Both airports showcase stunning artwork reflecting their cities’ rich cultural legacies. The unveiling of the new terminal buildings by Prime Minister Modi was witnessed by distinguished guests, including the Honorable Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Ajit Anantrao Pawar.

Tiruchirappalli International Airport
These inaugurations follow the successful delivery of Tiruchirappalli International Airport (Trichy) in January of this year. Egis played a pivotal role as the Design and Project Management Consultant (PMC) for the airport’s and its associated infrastructure. Spanning an impressive 75,000 sqm, the new integrated passenger terminal building boasts a remarkable Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) 4-star sustainability rating and state-of-the-art facilities, designed to cater to 4.5 million passengers annually.