20, Apr 2024
ICICI Bank strengthens support for senior citizens in West Bengal

Kolkata: ICICI Bank has announced a range of initiatives to make banking more convenient to its senior citizen customers in West Bengal. As part of this programme, the Bank has set up desks with Relationship Managers dedicated to service senior citizens at all branches in the state. The desks offer personalised assistance to senior citizens for various banking requirements including providing form 15H, life certificate, fixed deposits and interest certificate. In case the senior citizens want to avail of these services from the convenience of their home, they can do so digitally on the Bank’s retail banking application, iMobile Pay. Additionally, the Bank has made banking services available at the doorstep of senior citizens to provide improved convenience to them throughout the state.
In order to promote these initiatives, the Bank has launched a comprehensive ad campaign titled, ‘Moner Moton Banking’ featuring Prosenjit Chatterjee and Sabyasachi Chakraborty, two renowned actors in West Bengal. The campaign was aired on popular Bengali news and entertainment channels, and was supported by outdoor advertising across premium locations in the state.
Further, ICICI Bank aims to celebrate rich cultural heritage of the state through the launch of ‘Tarar Khonje’, a talent search exclusively for residents of West Bengal and NRIs above 50 years of age. This initiative is a part of the Bank’s overall focus to serve the senior citizens in the state. The talent search encompasses various categories including dancing, singing, poetry recitation, playing musical instruments, stand-up comedy, and photography. The interested participants can submit their entries on the talent search’s official website www.tararkhonje.com.
To ensure maximum participation from senior citizens, the talent search has reached out to over 60 housing societies including esteemed old age homes like Snehodiya and Swapnobhor.
Mr. Akash Raghav, State Head- West Bengal and North East, ICICI Bank said, “We have undertaken multi-pronged steps to enhance hassle-free, seamless and convenient banking experience to the senior citizens in West Bengal as part of our aim to become their preferred bank of choice. We have also launched ‘Tarar Khonje’ which offers an opportunity to the residents and NRIs of the state who are above 50 years to showcase their talent. With over 5,000 registrations in just a few weeks, this initiative has garnered significant interest and participation. Through this campaign, our aim is to celebrate the artistic and cultural prowess of Bengal’s talented residents.”
The winners of the talent search will be rewarded with an opportunity to appear on television with the actor Prosenjit Chatterjee, fondly called Bumba Da.
ICICI Bank currently operates a vast network of nearly 300 branches and over 510 ATMs and cash recycling machines (CRMs) in West Bengal.
ICICI Bank services its large customer base through a multi-channel delivery network of branches, ATMs, call centers, internet banking (www.icicibank.com), and mobile banking.
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- By Rabindra
20, Apr 2024
Empowering Fashion Entrepreneurs Pre-registration Opens for Entrepreneur Fund
New Delhi, 20 April 2024: Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), one-of-a-kind venture studio committed to nurturing creativity in the fashion industry, is offering a game-changing opportunity to fashion entrepreneurs to build self-sustaining businesses. With an initial investment of Rs 20 crores, FEF seeks to empower emerging talents through mentorship, networking, and financial backing.
The pre-registration is live on FEF’s official website, https://www.thefef.net/ encouraging fashion innovators with promising concepts to pitch and secure the investment that can transform their visions into successful thriving businesses. Pre-registration gives you an opportunity to take your fashion startups to the next level.
Highlighting the role of FEF in the journey of aspiring fashion entrepreneurs, Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, stated, “FEF fosters a dynamic ecosystem for talent, mentorship, and networking in the fashion entrepreneurship universe. We are committed to shaping the future of fashion innovation and empowering individuals to showcase their creativity on a global scale.”
Mr. Nigam additionally emphasized that as a company, we firmly believe in the potency of groundbreaking concepts and are enthusiastic to invest in the next generation of fashion startups and businesses, both in the existing as well as upcoming generations.
With Mr. Sanjay Nigam’s leadership and plethora of rich experiences, coupled with guidance from Mr. Vagish Pathak, Chairman of FEF, the fund has garnered visibility and substantial support from influentially successful business leaders across diverse sectors.
Investors who recognize and support the vision of FEF include :
Mr. Karan Johar (Renowned Indian film director and producer)
Mr. Vinod Dugar (Honorary Consul of Malawi and Co-Promoter of RDB Group)
Mr. Naveen Jindal (Chairman of Jindal Steel & Power Limited)
Mr. Sandeep Jain (Director of Vega Industries Pvt. Ltd.)
Mr. Gaurav Dalmia (Chairman of Dalmia Group Holdings.)
Mr. Sukhraj Nahar (Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director of Nahar Group.)
Ms. Manju Yagnik (Vice-Chairperson of Nahar Group)
Ms. Sonali Dugar (Dugar Finance & Investments Limited)
Mr. Prithviraj Kothari (Managing Director of RiddhiSiddhi Bullion Ltd – RSBL.)
For fashion entrepreneurs seeking backing, guidance and support to navigate their aspirations, FEF serves as a dedicated partner in acknowledging the competitive landscape of the fashion industry.
20, Apr 2024
Suzuki Motorcycle India expands its footprint in Kerala

Bengaluru, 20th April 2024: Further expanding its reach in Kerala, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL), the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, today inaugurated its new dealership – Indus Suzuki in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Located at Sarada Complex, Step Junction, Near Bharat Petroleum Pump, Mannanthala, Thiruvananthapuram, Indus Suzuki offers a unique experience to its customers in the city. The dealership is dedicated to addressing diverse sales requirements and is equipped with infrastructure to deliver the highest standards of Sales Service.
Welcoming the new business partner to Suzuki family, Mr. Devashish Handa, Executive Vice President, Sales & After Sales, Suzuki Motorcycle India said, “Inaugurating our new dealership in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, marks our efforts to not only come closer to our customers in the city but also to establish Suzuki’s high standards of customer experience. We extend our gratitude to the promoters of our new dealership, M/s Indus Motor Company Private Limited, for their confidence in Brand Suzuki. Our commitment of expanding a network of Dealerships nationwide remains steadfast, ensuring that customers have access to quality offerings and an elevated purchasing experience.”
Indus Suzuki offers a complete range of Suzuki’s domestic scooters and motorcycles. This includes Suzuki Avenis, Access 125, Burgman Street, Burgman EX, V-Strom SX, Gixxer SF250, Gixxer 25
20, Apr 2024
Transit Oriented Development Corridors Emerge as the Epicentre of Real Estate Demand in Gurugram
Gurugram: In Gurugram’s bustling real estate landscape, Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Corridors have emerged as the epitome of development and financial promise. The quintessential example of this is the Dwarka Expressway, which with its strategic location and potential for infrastructural enhancements has captivated the attention of investors and homeowners alike, while also catalyzing robust growth in property values and demand.
Enhanced Connectivity with the Dwarka expressway, SPR (Southern Peripheral Road), Golf Course Extension Road, Railway station upgradation. Upcoming Metro Rail project, Gurugram is set to witness a significant enhancement in its connectivity network. This strategic development will facilitate smoother and more efficient travel across the city, promising newfound convenience for residents and commuters, Gurugram’s real estate landscape braces for a period of unprecedented growth and development. With improved connectivity, heightened investment potential, and a renewed sense of dynamism, the city is poised to emerge as a real estate powerhouse in the region.
According to the latest Magic Bricks Propindex Report (JFM 2024), the completion of the Dwarka Expressway signifies more than just the construction of a new roadway; it heralds a new era of urban living. The report reveals a marked preference for homebuyers in Gurugram to lean significantly towards bigger accommodations, with 3 BHK homes accounting for a considerable market share of 54%. Reflecting changing urban lifestyle preferences, nearly half of homebuyers express a preference for spacious accommodations.
The report also highlights that mid-sized units ranging from 1,250 to 2,000 square feet have witnessed the highest traction, commanding a significant 42% demand share. Price trends suggest a preference for houses priced above INR 10,000 per square foot, indicating a strong appetite for luxury or upscale residences. Particularly, luxury properties boasting three bedrooms or more command premium prices, averaging around INR 14,200 per square foot. This highlights a notable divergence in pricing between standard and luxury segments of the market, showcasing distinct demands and amenities associated with each property type.
Sharing his insights Mr. Ravi Aggarwal, Co-founder, and Managing Director, of Signature Global (India) Ltd. said, “The latest report’s insights reveal a clear shift in preferences, with a growing demand for spacious accommodations, particularly 3 BHK homes which dominate with a 54% market share. The surge in mid-sized units suggests an evolving mindset towards larger living spaces, indicative of changing urban dynamics. The preference for luxury or premium residences reflects that homebuyers are seeking upscale amenities and lifestyle. Key corridors like Dwarka Expressway, New Gurugram, and South of Gurugram (Sohna Road) emerge as epicentres of urban transformation, affirming a promising future for both end-users and investors. Some of the most promising areas in Gurugram include Sector 37 D, Sector 71, Dwarka Expressway, sector 84 and Southern Peripheral Road having a variety of housing options available and forthcoming for the mid-income and premium segment housing. As we embrace these insights, it’s clear that Gurugram is poised for dynamic evolution, offering unparalleled opportunities for visionary development.”
Another industry stalwart, Whiteland Corporation, has made its mark on the Gurugram real estate landscape with its iconic luxury project, The ASPEN, a premium project located in Sector 76.
Speaking about market dynamics, Mr. Pankaj Pal, Managing Director, Whiteland Corporation stated, “The data confirms our findings on the ground. The Magic Bricks Propindex (JFM 2024) has strengthened our confidence in Gurugram’s real estate sector. The spike in demand, particularly along the Dwarka Expressway, demonstrates an increasing preference for luxury living experiences. Going by the year-on-year data, we are confident that the discerning homebuyer in Gurugram is now more aspirational and is looking to invest in premium properties that match global standards and provide world-class amenities. Therefore, we are confident that Gurugram is well poised to emerge as the most sought-after real estate destination in the years to come”.
Looking ahead at bright future horizons, Gurugram’s real estate industry is riding high on the waves of transition, with the Dwarka Expressway developing as a hub of development and investment.
Vipin Sharma, Founder & Chairman, Aarize Group, “In the wake of the completion of the Dwarka Expressway and the forthcoming enhancements in connectivity infrastructure such as the Southern Peripheral Road, Golf Course Extension Road, and the Metro Rail project, Gurugram’s real estate sector stands at the threshold of transformative growth. As revealed by the latest Magic Bricks Propindex Report, this milestone not only signifies the construction of a roadway but heralds a new era of urban living. Some of the most promising sectors due to its excellent connectivity, especially in the SPR region, Sector like 69, 71, 72 & 76 are attracting buyers. With heightened demand and improved connectivity promising newfound convenience, Gurugram emerges as a real estate powerhouse poised for unprecedented development and investment potential.”
As leading world-class developers continue to redefine urban living, the city’s skyline is set to evolve, offering unparalleled opportunities for investors and homebuyers seeking premium living experiences. With infrastructure advancements and strategic connectivity, Gurugram’s journey towards becoming a global city of tomorrow has only just begun.
Strategic Connectivity: Dwarka Expressway’s Proximity to Major Employment Hubs
The Dwarka Expressway not only offers strategic access to Delhi but also boasts proximity to major employment centers and essential services, sparking unprecedented demand from both developers and customers alike. Magic Bricks Propindex data underscores a considerable year-on-year increase in both ready-to-move (RTM) and under-construction (UC) homes along the Dwarka Expressway, with statistics surging by 36% and 25%, respectively, over the past five years, indicative of its volume impact. This surge in demand translates into substantial property appreciation, presenting lucrative opportunities for early investors.
“The completion of the Dwarka Expressway ushers in a new era of urban living. According to the latest Propindex Report, 3 BHK homes hold 54% market share in Gurugram, with mid-sized units (1,250 – 2,000 sq ft) in high demand at 42%. Buyers show a preference for luxury residences priced above INR 10,000 per sq ft, averaging INR 14,200 per sq ft for properties with three bedrooms or more. This highlights a clear distinction in pricing and amenities between standard and luxury segments, reflecting evolving lifestyle preferences.” Mr. Santosh Agarwal, Executive Director and CFO, Alphacorp
20, Apr 2024
Taggd Certified as a Great Place to Work® in India, Championing their Commitment to Employee Well-being and Inclusivity
120th April 2024, Gurugram: Tagged, India’s leading Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) firm, celebrates its prestigious certification as a Great Place to Work® in India (from February 2024 to January 2025). The certification proves their belief that “people care is good business,” with progressive practices woven into their culture and technology. Investing in People, Powering Success
The company prioritizes continuous learning and development, fostering a culture of growth. Notably, Taggd champions gender diversity, with a remarkable 60% of its payroll going to women. Additionally, Taggd empowers its team to excel by offering a supportive environment and a unique well-being leave policy each month. These initiatives, along with many others, played a vital role in securing the Great Place to Work® certification.
The company excelled in areas like trust, workplace culture, transparency, respect, credibility, camaraderie, and inclusivity, particularly shining in employee empowerment, workplace safety, and promoting equality.
Devashish Sharma, CEO and Founding Member of Taggd expressed his pride: “We are deeply honored by this recognition. At Taggd, our core values revolve around prioritizing people and fostering growth. We cultivate a culture where joy, purpose, and energy thrive, allowing our team to excel both personally and professionally. Taggd is the sum of its talented team members, the #Taggers, who live these values every day. They are the heart of the Taggd brand and the driving force behind our exceptional client service.”
The Power of the “5Gs”
Taggd’s success thrives on its dedicated team and their unwavering commitment to excellence. The company’s core values, the “5Gs,” guide employee behavior:
- Go-getter: Focus on solutions, embrace challenges, and deliver results resourcefully.
- Gifted: Be exceptional, identify connections others miss, and thrive on change while simplifying processes.
- Genuine: Be authentic, transparent, known for candor, and consistent in all interactions.
- Guides: Be curious learners and admired sources of knowledge in your expertise.
- Grounded: Be open to diverse viewpoints to find the best solutions.
- Taggd’s journey as a Great Place to Work® exemplifies its commitment to its people and its innovative approach to recruitment.
20, Apr 2024
Modular Interoperability Layer Union to Integrate with the AggLayer, Connecting the Polygon and Cosmos Ecosystems
DOVER, DE—20th April 2024 — Union Labs, the modular interoperability layer, will be integrating with the AggLayer, a decentralized service developed by Polygon Labs that safely connects chains to enable shared state and liquidity, to facilitate message passing and asset transfers between the Polygon ecosystem chains connected to the AggLayer and the broader Cosmos ecosystem. This integration will position Union as a key IBC gateway in and out of the AggLayer, a unified zk-bridge connecting sovereign, modular chains while maintaining the unified liquidity and UX of the monolithic architecture.
The integration will unlock greater liquidity access and movement between AggLayer-connected chains and IBC-enabled chains, ensuring a trustless, efficient, and low-latency process. Layer 2 solutions leveraging Polygon CDK will benefit from the seamless access to liquidity without vendor lock-in, freedom for technical innovation through open standards, and unrestricted liquidity movement and composability with other Web3 protocols, provided by the integration.
“The integration between Union and the AggLayer, developed by Polygon Labs, extends beyond a physical integration; it is a testament to both projects’ commitment to addressing the siloed nature of blockchains while upholding sovereignty,” said Karel Kubat, Founder of Union Labs. “A secure link between AggLayer-connected blockchains and IBC-enabled chains will greatly benefit projects in both ecosystems and developers looking for the freedom afforded by the modular design and zk-proof bridging technology.”
The AggLayer is a shared zk-bridge contract enabling all CDK-based chains to seamlessly tap into the liquidity and user base of Layer 1s while benefiting from unified liquidity among Layer 2s themselves. The modular design allows developers to customize networks according to specific needs and zero-knowledge proofs ensure cryptographic security.
“Union’s integration into the AggLayer is a significant milestone for both the Polygon and Cosmos ecosystems leveraging the AggLayer’s unique architecture to unlock modular and monolithic benefits for both ecosystems,” said Marc Boiron, CEO of Polygon Labs. “It streamlines liquidity flow for current projects and users while catalyzing innovation.”
Union, recently joined forces with Scroll, Noble, Movement, and Celestia to enhance liquidity flow across the modular tech stack, further enhancing the utility of native assets within the Polygon ecosystem and reducing liquidity and user fragmentation throughout the entire rollup ecosystem.
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20, Apr 2024
Concept PR bags mandate for Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF)
New Delhi, 20th April 2024 Concept Public Relations India Limited (Concept PR), part of the Concept Group, an independent integrated communication group, has won the PR mandate for the esteemed Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), a venture studio that supports entrepreneurial ideas of the fashion industry and fosters a collaborative fashion ecosystem, is inviting fashion entrepreneurs to showcase their business ideas and grab the opportunity to transform their dreams into reality, with an initial investment of Rs 20 crores.
Led by Mr. Sanjay Nigam and Mr. Vagish Pathak (Chairman, Fashion Entrepreneur Fund), the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF) has garnered the support of prominent key business leaders as investors, including Indian film director Karan Johar, Vinod Dugar (Honorary Consul of Malawi and Co-Promoter of RDB Group), Mr. Sandeep Jain (Director of Vega Industries Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. Gaurav Dalmia (Chairman of Dalmia Group Holdings), Mr. Sukhraj Nahar (Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director of Nahar Group), Ms. Manju Yagnik (Vice-Chairperson, Nahar Group), Mr. Prithviraj Kothari (Managing Director of RiddhiSiddhi Bullion Ltd – RSBL), Ms. Sonali Dugar (Dugar Finance & Investments Limited) and Mr. Naveen Jindal (Chairman of Jindal Steel & Power Limited). Together, they bring invaluable expertise to complement Mr. Nigam’s entrepreneurial vision.
The partnership with Fashion Entrepreneur Fund not only amplifies Concept PR’s diverse portfolio but also solidifies its position as a leader in shaping and elevating brands. With a commitment to strategic prowess and immaculate execution, Concept PR is poised to bring its unique blend of creativity and expertise to the forefront of these prominent ventures.
Mr. Ashish Jalan, Managing Director of Concept PR, conveyed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Concept PR is truly honored to be entrusted with the PR mandate for the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. This partnership not only reflects our steadfast dedication to fostering success in fashion and entrepreneurship but also underscores the exceptional concept behind FEF. As a venture studio, FEF is committed to nurturing innovative ideas within the fashion industry and fostering a collaborative ecosystem. With FEF inviting fashion entrepreneurs to showcase their visionary business ideas, we are eager to leverage our expertise and creativity to enhance the brand presence of this prestigious venture. Together, we look forward to turning dreams into reality.”
Highlighting Concept PR’s strategic prowess, Mr. Jalan emphasized the value addition to the company’s diverse portfolio through the inclusion of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. He stated, “Collaborating with industry leaders not only boosts our portfolio but also provides an exciting opportunity to contribute to the success of these ventures. We are confident that our strategic insights and execution capabilities will play a pivotal role in making the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund a resounding success.”
Mr. Sanjay Nigam, Founder of FEF India Fashion Awards and Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, conveyed his confidence in Concept PR. He stated, “Selecting a PR partner is a critical decision, and Concept PR’s stellar industry reputation, coupled with their history of successful campaigns, made them the clear choice. I have full belief in the team’s ability to authentically convey the essence and vision of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund.”
“Entrusting them with our ‘baby’ is a decision I make with absolute trust in their capabilities,” affirmed Mr. Nigam.
This partnership signifies the alignment of shared values and goals, and Concept PR is geared up to deploy its expertise to enhance the visibility and impact of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund. The collaboration promises a synergy of creativity, innovation, and strategic communication that will undoubtedly set new benchmarks in the fashion and entrepreneurship industries.
20, Apr 2024
Integrating Vedic Wisdom into Policy and Practice to Nurture Global Equity

Gauranga Das Prabhu, Director Govardhan Ecovillage delves into how incorporating Vedic knowledge, which emphasizes the importance of food and unity, might transform policy to promote global fairness. Recognizing food as a fundamental aspect of life and adopting the Vasudeva Kutumbakam principle – the world as one family – paves the way for a more just and inclusive society.
In today’s interconnected world, the pursuit of equity is seen as a moral necessity that transcends borders and ideology. It invites us to explore ancient knowledge while accepting modern realities and seeking answers rooted in compassion, collaboration, and systemic transformation. We can pave the way to a more inclusive and fair society by relying on both the rich weave of Vedic wisdom and modern discoveries.
Vasudeva Kutumbakam, or the idea that ‘the entire world is one family’, is central to the Vedic ethos. The premise of Annam Bahu Kurvita is central to the principle of producing and distributing food abundantly. This profound knowledge emphasizes the essence of civilization itself: the sharing of resources for the general good. In embracing these concepts, we acknowledge that life sustains equitable access to resources, particularly food.
However, as we confront the stark reality of global inequality, it becomes evident that systemic injustices persist. Rooted in historical legacies of colonialism, discrimination, and imperialism these disparities pervade wealth, income, and resource access worldwide. The statistics paint a sobering picture: the top echelons or upper class amass a disproportionate share of wealth, leaving the marginalized struggling for the most necessities.
Addressing these ingrained disparities requires a diverse strategy. For example- events such as C20, a vital part of the G20 process, aim to engage in meaningful discussions, consolidate policy documents, and devise effective advocacy strategies for the same. Affirmative action measures, such as India’s MGNREGA and Brazil’s social inclusion policies, show signs of improvement. Similarly, Kerala’s decentralized planning approach demonstrates the transforming force of local empowerment, resulting in demonstrable advances in education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment.
Education appears as an effective tool and technique for overcoming biases and developing empathy. By adopting anti-bias education and inclusive curricula, we can raise a generation that understands the nuances and complexities of intersectionality and recognizes the different identities that shape and affect an individual’s experiences. We may address structural inequities and promote fairness in a variety of contexts by implementing policy reforms and engaging stakeholders.
Numerous policy ideas exist, ranging from international collaboration to address tax havens to a Universal Basic Income. These policies, which are based on a dedication to economic stability and inclusivity, offer hope for a more fair future. But there are many obstacles in the way, such as political resistance and lingering effects from the past, which call for coordinated efforts and unshakable resolve.
We have to take the call to action found in Vedic wisdom seriously as we work through the challenges of our day. We can overcome barriers and create a global society based on justice and compassion by promoting a sense of unity and sharing. This will in turn create a more equitable and welcoming world where the teachings of Vasudeva Kutumbakam light the way to a better future.
20, Apr 2024
Professor Dr Robert Zeiser receives DKMS Mechtild Harf Science Award 2024

Hyderabad/Tuebingen, 20th April 2024: The DKMS Stiftung Leben Spenden honored Professor Dr Robert Zeiser, one of the world’s most exceptional scientists in the field of allogeneic stem cell transplantation, with the DKMS Mechtild Harf Science Award 2024. The award recognizes the lifetime achievements of internationally renowned physicians and scientists in the field of stem cell transplantation and cellular therapy. “Prof Dr Robert Zeiser’s findings in fundamental research of Graft-versus-Host Disease have led to new therapeutic approaches that are changing standard practices and are significantly improving the outcome for patients after stem cell transplantation. This is also true of his studies on the control of disease relapse after transplantation,” explains Prof Dr Katharina Fleischhauer, member of the DKMS Medical Council and Head of the Institute for Cell Therapy Research at Essen University Hospital, in recognition of this year’s award winner. Zeiser, Head of the Department of Tumor Immunology and Immune Regulation, and Head of the Zeiser Laboratory at the Department of Internal Medicine I at Freiburg University Hospital accepted the award on 15 April 2024 in the presence of doctors and guests from all over the world at the annual EBMT (European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation) meeting in Glasgow. At the ceremony, four outstanding young scientists in the field of blood cancer therapy were also awarded the highly coveted DKMS John Hansen Research Grant 2024.
“Zeiser is one of the most internationally renowned scientists in the field of allogeneic stem cell transplantation, and he has decisively advanced our understanding of the mechanisms of Graft-versus-Host disease (GvHD),” said Prof Fleischhauer at the presentation of the DKMS Mechtild Harf Science Award, which comes with 10,000 Euro. “The new therapeutic principles based on his findings in the treatment of this serious complication are a prime example of successfully implementing fundamental research findings to improve patient care.”
New therapy to counter life-threatening immune recations
For the majority of patients with acute leukemia, an allogeneic blood stem cell transplant remains the only hope of a cure. However, the therapy is associated with risks: After the transplantation, around one in two patients experiences a life-threatening immune reaction known as Graft-versus-Host disease (GvHD). In this case, certain cells (T cells) in the donor’s transplant recognize the recipient’s cells or organs as foreign and cause damage to them. GvHD triggers painful inflammation in various organs. Around half of GvHD patients do not respond to standard immunosuppressive therapies, such as cortisone, and for a long time, no alternative treatment was available. This has changed thanks to the work of Prof Zeiser and his team. Through detailed research into the disease processes, they recognized that an active substance from the Janus kinase inhibitor family can inhibit the inflammatory messengers that occur in GvHD. With the help of an already-approved cancer drug, the undesired reaction can be mitigated and partially prevented. The results of an initiated international multicentric phase-III study led to the approval of Ruxolitinib for the treatment of acute and corticosteroid-refractory GvHD.
Through further research, Zeiser and his team were able to prove that the acute immune reaction after a transplant often begins in the intestine, as it loses its barrier function. “Our analyses showed that blood cancer cells can influence and even switch off the function of immune cells with the help of lactic acid. We now want to investigate exactly how these processes take place. We aim to find new, targeted therapies that can prevent serious complications after a stem cell transplant,” says Zeiser, who is also the spokesperson for the Collaborative Research Centre 1479 OncoEscape and a member of the Cluster of Excellence CIBSS (Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies).
How young scientists help to improve blood cancer treatment
During the ceremony, four outstanding fellows were also announced as the recipients of the prized DKMS John Hansen Research Grants 2024: Livius Peter, MD (Charité, University Hospital Berlin, Germany), Tobias Wertheimer, MD (University of Freiburg, Germany), Senthil Bhoopalan, MD, PhD (Memphis, USA), and Nicoletta Cieri, MD, PhD (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, USA). All four of these excellent young scientists are currently working on research priorities in the field of blood cancer therapy. These include the early diagnosis of disease relapses, the development of a GvHD prognosis tool, cellular interactions between immune and leukemia cells, as well as rare diseases such as Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA). “We are convinced that supporting young medical and scientific talent is a valuable investment in the future,” emphasized Prof Dr Marcel van den Brink, Chairman of the DKMS Medical Advisory Board. With the DKMS John Hansen Research Grant, up to four young scientists are given the opportunity each year to advance their research projects in the field of stem cell transplantation and cell therapy for blood cancer. The grant awards recipients 240,000 Euro over three years. Information on the call for applications and the application process for the DKMS John Hansen Research Grant is available here.
20, Apr 2024
Mahindra Lifespaces sells homes worth350 Cr in 2 Days at Mahindra Zen, Bengaluru’s 1st Net Zero Waste + Energy Homes
Bengaluru, 20th April 2024: Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd., the real estate and infrastructure development arm of the Mahindra Group, today announced the successful launch of Bengaluru’s 1st Net Zero Waste + Energy residential project, Mahindra Zen. The project witnessed an outstanding response from homebuyers, with over 150 homes booked within just 2 days, which is ~ 65% of the launched inventory. This remarkable achievement, totaling over ₹350 crores in value, underscores the growing demand for sustainable living solutions in Bengaluru.
Against the backdrop of rising environmental concerns, Mahindra Lifespaces’ innovative offering has resonated strongly with homebuyers, reaffirming the company’s position as a leader in sustainable real estate development.
Vimalendra Singh, Chief Business Officer (Residential), Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited said, “The successful sales of Mahindra Zen reinforces our commitment to environmentally responsible development and highlights the growing preference for sustainable living among our customers in Bengaluru. As pioneers of Net Zero homes in the country, we aim to contribute to reducing the environmental impact of real estate and are delighted with the response that our project has received. This achievement highlights the increasing awareness and desire among homebuyers to contribute to a greener future.”
Mahindra Zen offers ‘nature-crafted living’ with features inspired by the five elements of nature viz. Earth, Fire, Wind, Water, and Air: like the urban forest, solar-powered working pods, and symphony corner. Additionally, Mahindra Zen embodies a climate-responsive design with features such as solar-powered amenities and low-flow sanitary fixtures, contributing to resource conservation. With amenities also promoting sustainable living, Mahindra Zen reflects a holistic approach to community well-being.
The location of Mahindra Zen offers easy access to major business parks and IT hubs like Electronic City, ensuring a convenient daily commute. The neighborhood features renowned educational institutions, shopping centers, supermarkets, entertainment venues, and dining options, catering to family needs. Residents can also enjoy Bengaluru’s vibrant nightlife, adding to the overall lifestyle appeal.