23, Feb 2024
Women shouldn’t shy away from seeking support; it’s impossible to do everything alone, says ISRO Deputy Director Nandini Harinath at Ideas of India Summit 3.0
Mumbai, February 23, 2024: In a key session at Ideas of India Summit 3.0, women achievers gained central focus. “Growing up with techno-bureaucrat and mathematician parents, education was ingrained as a priority in my life from the start. My father had a remarkable talent for explaining the physics of everyday occurrences, which instilled in me a deep curiosity and appreciation for the world around me,” said Nandini Harinath, Deputy Director, Spacecraft Operations Area, ISRO Telemetry Tracking and Command Network, ISRO, sharing her experience of growing up the ranks from Junior Engineer at ISRO to leading major space missions such as Mangalyaan and Chandrayaan-2
On the inaugural day of ABP Network’s flagship event, the ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0, leading women intellectuals and achievers in STEM fields joined together to explore the theme ‘Women in STEM: Working in the Trenches, Reaching for the Stars’, shedding light on how women defy all challenges experienced in the modern-day workforce and their road to success.
Nandini Harinath also shared the importance of family support, teamwork, and personal well-being. “Juggling the demands of family and a career in the space industry has often felt like navigating an obstacle course. However, I firmly believe in the power of teamwork. Throughout my journey, I have learned the importance of seeking support from those around me. No accomplishment is achieved in isolation, and leaning on my family and society for assistance has been crucial during times of need”, she added.
Nandini Harinath has been an indispensable asset to ISRO, with her dedication and expertise in space science. Explaining the future of India’s space exploration efforts, she said, “With the emergence of private players in the sector, the possibilities are endless. I envision India taking a leading role in space travel, not only for scientific advancement but also for the profound impact it could have on shaping our future as a society.”
Discussing her journey and the rise of women scientists at ISRO, Dr. Nigar Shaji, Project Director, Aditya L-1 Mission, ISRO, said, “Since school, I have believed in pursuing the uncommon path. My parents, particularly my father, a math graduate turned agricultural specialist, encouraged me. At ISRO, there is no glass ceiling, passion is supported. For women, balancing work, family, and personal life is essential, with health as a priority. As far as the space industry in concerned, the Aditya mission is crucial for understanding the sun and space weather, ensuring Earth’s protection. Leading the world in the space industry should be our aim. Visibility for women in STEM is vital; education must be engaging and inclusive from the grassroots.”
Elaborating on the vital role played by women in STEM to break the glass ceiling and drive India’s growth, Prof. (Dr.) Annapurni Subramaniam, FASc., FNASc., Director, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, said, “It is important to be happy with yourself, as a woman we have multiple roles to play and one cannot bend to all requirements, there has to be a distinction. As such, there is limited conversation about women’s health. It is important to create a framework at home, where support can be asked from the family and traditional roles can be given a pushback. The Indian Institute of Astrophysics observatory in Kodaikanal is celebrating its 125 years, which is capturing the Sun’s data. We have a night-time observatory in Ladakh, 2500 meters above sea level. Our capabilities in astronomy are well established, thus India is being looked at as a support and resource in important missions for ground-based and space-based. India is also a major partner in two important projects in gravitational wave direction- LIGO, and Square Kilometer Array to look at the universe at very early stages.”
The ABP Network’s ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 spotlighting the ‘The People’s Agenda’ brought a confluence of ideas and ideators to a common platform celebrating the country’s people and its plurality. The two-day summit hosted policymakers, cultural ambassadors, industry experts, celebrities, business leaders, economists, and leading luminaries to delve into the fundamental ideas of liberty, justice, equality, and diversity that define India, its society, culture, and politics. The meaningful deliberations on diverse topics had the brightest minds across sectors providing insights about the nation’s trajectory and its journey to become Viksit Bharat.
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- By Rabindra
23, Feb 2024
Akbaruddin Owaisi, MLA Chandrayangutta visits Thalassemia Sickle Cell Society (TSCS) Hyderabad
Hyderabad, 23rd February 2024: Chandrayangutta MLA Akbaruddin Owaisi, has today visited the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society (TSCS), Shivrampally. Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President, Mr. Naresh Rathi, Chief Patron, Dr. Suman Jain, Secretary & CEO – of TSCS, Mr. Aleem Baig, Joint Secretary – of TSCS along with the working staff were also present at the society. Dr. Akbar’s visit aimed to express his support for the organization’s efforts in the field of Thalassemia and Sickle Cell disease and to extend his solidarity with the affected individuals and their families.
During his visit, Akbaruddin toured the facilities at the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society, where he witnessed first-hand crucial services provided to patients and their families. He also interacted with the doctors, TSCS staff, and other working members of the society.
Expressing his admiration for the dedicated work of the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society, Akbaruddin Owaisi, MLA – Chandrayangutta emphasized the need for greater awareness and support for patients and their families. He stated, ” Looking at the dire need for more awareness towards Thalassemia, I have assured TSCS society that I will put every effort to talk to the Health Ministry and the Govt of Telangana for a special GO to be passed making HbA2 test mandatory all over Telangana. It is our collective responsibility to provide comprehensive care and support to those affected. I commend the Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society for their unwavering commitment to this cause.”
Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President – Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society, expressed his gratitude, “We are honored to have Abkaruddin visit our society and show his support for the cause. His presence encourages us to continue our efforts in raising awareness about Thalassemia and Sickle Cell disease continue to provide quality healthcare services, and advocate for the rights of affected individuals.”
Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society has been at the forefront of addressing these challenges by providing vital medical services, organizing awareness campaigns, facilitating support groups, and advocating for policy changes to improve the lives of affected individuals.
23, Feb 2024
Toyota Innova HyCross Surpasses 50,000 sales Milestone
Bangalore, 23 February 2024: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), today, announced that cumulative sales of its popular model Innova HyCross have clocked sales of over 50,000 units since its launch in November 2022.
Based on the latest Toyota Global Architecture (TNGA) the versatile Innova HyCross is a vehicle for every occasion owing to its glamor quotient, advanced technology, comfort along with safety and thrill to drive. Boasts of several first-in-segment features including Paddle shift, Powered Ottoman 2nd row seats, Front Ventilated seats, Air conditioner (Dual zone – front and rear zone), Rear Retractable Sunshade, Electrochromic Inner Rear View Mirror (EC IRVM), Power Back Door and Dual Function Daytime Running Light (DRL).
The Innova HyCross is powered by 5th Generation Self-Charging Strong Hybrid Electric System with TNGA 2.0 Litre 4-cylinder gasoline engine and a monocoque frame with an e-drive sequential shift delivering a max power output of 137 kW (186 PS), providing rapid acceleration and best in segment fuel economy. The vehicle also comes with the option of a TNGA 2.0 Litre 4-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a direct shift CVT in select grades delivering an output of 129 kW (174 PS).
Being a Self-Charging Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle (SHEV), the Innova HyCross is capable of running 40% of the distance and 60% of the time in electric (EV) or zero-emission mode.
Commenting on the success, Mr. Sabari Manohar, VP of sales and marketing, at Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “We are thrilled that the Innova Hycross has achieved 50,000 units sales milestone within a short span of fourteen months from launch. We are extremely thankful for the response and confidence entrusted by our customers in this product. Innova HyCross was a success right from the day of its launch and the product has seen strong customer acceptance from our target audience. With its launch, The Innova Hycross has revolutionized the idea of comfort, convenience, performance, and safety within the MUV segment. Moreover, we are immensely proud of Innova Hycross for carrying forward the cult legacy of the Innova brand and are confident that the HyCross will continue to garner affection from customers and will consistently redefine the mobility experience through its exceptional performance.
Looking ahead into 2024 and beyond, we look forward to delighting many more customers with our best-in-class products and services in the years to come that will steer us closer to our ultimate goal of delivering ‘Mass Happiness to All.”
The success of the product can also be attributed to the awesome and class-leading service benefits including warranty. The Innova HyCross offers the renowned Toyota experience through a warranty of 3 years/100,000 kilometers and an option of extended warranty of up to 5 years/220,000 kilometers, 5-years free roadside assistance, attractive financial schemes, and 8 yrs/160,000 kilometers warranty on the Hybrid battery. In addition, the company also recently launched an industry-first “Awesome New Car Delivery Solution” that extends vehicle logistic services till delivery touchpoints by eliminating possible drive down of new cars by the dealer staff to the delivery location. As an industry first, the new initiative will enable Toyota dealers to transport new vehicles from dealer stockyards to their sales outlets on a flatbed truck.
23, Feb 2024
Tata Motors Empowers Women to bring about a Socioeconomic Change
National, February 23, 2024 – In a transformative journey unfolding in the rural heartland of India, women are intricately weaving threads of change to attain economic independence. Tata Motors Samaj Vikas Kendra (SVK) has helped these women master the craft of ‘Chikankari’ and organise themselves into groups to run a successful business venture basis this skill. The project has had an enduring impact on other women leading to active engagement of more than 150 women to form SHGs and actively engage in credit and thrift activities thus mobilising over the past 16 years.
Tata Motors SVK began work on this project in 2007 wherein they worked on a two-prong strategy, to revive the handicraft also linking it to the social economic development of women. SVK established a dedicated training centre for women from 15 villages in and around, to equip them with the required skillset and apprise them of the market trends. In 2011, the scope of the SHG Federation programme was enhanced to include newer skills like the production of jute bags, candles, herbal Gulal, cloth bags, artificial jewellery, etc.
Tata Motors also helped these women leverage various women’s welfare schemes run by the Government of Uttar Pradesh to enhance their skills and tap into opportunities to generate income. Now these women are serving as harbingers of change wherein they have not just attained financial freedom but fostered a social change breaking down societal barriers thus paving the way for gender equality.
Mr. Vinod Kulkarni, CSR Head at Tata Motors, stated, “SHG Federation is a 360-degree programme wherein we help women join hands to develop their enterprise as a group to attain financial freedom which in turn helps them uplift their socioeconomic status. It is believed that gender equality and empowerment of women are key to the success of the Millennium Development Goals. The success of the programme showcases our determination and commitment to pave the way for an equitable society.”
22, Feb 2024
ArohanPrivilege is now available to all eligible customers in India
Arohan Financial Services Limited, a leading NBFC-MFI, regulated by the Reserve Bank of India is now extending its first-in-the-industry digital microfinance service, ‘ArohanPrivilege,’ to all eligible microfinance customers across the country. Headquartered in Kolkata, Arohan operates from 18 states and is soon to expand its operations in southern parts of India.
In FY 2023, Arohan steered the launch of ArohanPrivilege, the Indian microfinance industry’s first-in-the-kind digital loan sourcing facility. This unique initiative is specific to gold-standard customers where they are offered the facility of receiving and serving their loans through 100% digital and cashless means, in a matter of minutes, and through Arohan’s proprietary apnaArohan app – all from the comfort of their homes.
ArohanPrivilege customers are offered special benefits and loans with low interest rates and loan processing fees. Customer can apply for loans from the comfort of their homes, without any group formation and center meetings. They are also provided with the flexibility to choose a loan amount and repayment frequency that is suitable for them – and all of this within minutes of a successful loan application.
Commenting on the expansion of this service, Ms Reema Mukherjee, Head of Digital Growth, Arohan Financial Services Limited said, “We are excited to announce the expansion of our first-in-the-industry digital lending facility for eligible customers nationwide, highlighting our commitment to fostering financial inclusion in India. We respect our customers’ time and the trust they have in us – ArohanPrivilege empowers Customers to save both time and money.”
22, Feb 2024
Marut Drones and PJTSAU’s Revolutionary Direct Seeding Device Receives World’s First Utility Patent
February 22, 2024 – Hyderabad, India: Marut Drones, India’s leading drone manufacturer, has been granted the world’s first utility patent for a term of 20 years starting from November 29, 2021, under the provisions of the Patents Act, 1970. This patent recognizes Marut’s direct seeding drone, developed in collaboration with Prof. Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University (PJTSAU), which incorporates a multi-nozzle aerial seed dispensing device. With this patent, Marut Drones endeavors to facilitate the widespread adoption of direct seeding drones for rice cultivation at the grassroots level.
Marut’s seeding drones have obtained the patent following scientific validation by PJTSAU, which has also released Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for their use. This validation underscores the reliability and efficacy of the technology in enhancing rice production.
The patented system enables the aerial dispersion of diverse rice seeds through a meticulously designed multi-nozzle mechanism, optimizing the efficiency and effectiveness of seed-sowing processes. Marut has adhered to standard operating procedures for seeding, ensuring precise parameters such as drone speed, swath width, nozzle type and pressure, spray volume, spraying altitude, and droplet size in Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) using drones.
Prem Kumar Vislawath, CEO and Founder of Marut Drones, emphasized, “This patented technology will revolutionize rice farming practices in India. By reducing on-farm manual labor through drone technology, we aim to address the persistent challenges faced by farmers, particularly labor shortages due to rapid urbanization. From seeding paddy to controlling mosquitoes and pests in rice fields, labor costs pose significant hurdles. Through our collaboration with PJTSAU, we seek to promote the widespread adoption of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) through drones, fostering a more economically viable and sustainable rice cultivation ecosystem.”
Marut’s direct seeding drone is a multi-utility attachment, enabling farmers to utilize drones not only for pesticide application/spraying but also for direct seeding, thereby accelerating Return on Investment (ROI). This multi-functionality allows the drone to be utilized around the year, justifying its name AG365.
By leveraging Marut Drones’ innovative DSR drones, farmers can achieve a remarkable 92% reduction in water usage, significantly accelerating ROI and profitability timelines from 3 years to just 1.5 years. The DSR drones are highly feasible under delayed monsoons, late release of canal water, or other contingency situations, addressing major challenges faced by rice farmers.
Traditional obstacles such as nursery time, transplantation, and skilled labor shortages are effectively mitigated, empowering farmers with enhanced operational efficiency and flexibility. With Marut’s DSR drones, farmers can sow up to 30 acres in a single day, requiring only 33,333 man-days to cover 500,000 acres compared to the 50 lakh man-days required for manual transplanting. Moreover, this technology minimizes operational exposure to harmful pesticides during pest outbreaks.
Through extensive trials conducted across 5 states, Marut Drones is poised to revolutionize rice farming practices nationwide. As India grapples with the impending dip of 2 million tons in rice production, creating disruptions in the global rice market, Marut Drones aims to seed 1 million hectares of land by 2030.
By fortifying food security efforts with its patented technology, Marut emerges as a frontrunner in innovation. The company’s comprehensive training programs targeting farmers, rural youth, students, and agricultural stakeholders will promote the adoption of direct seeding in rice cultivation using drone technology.
Marut’s patented technology not only opens avenues for rural employment but also encourages the establishment of Community Health Centers (CHCs) facilitated by Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Women’s Self-Help Groups.
22, Feb 2024
Quantum Energy unveils 2 State-of-the-Art Showrooms in Samastipur and Madhubani
22 February 2024: Quantum Energy, a leading electric vehicle (EV) startup specializing in the design, development, and manufacturing of electric scooters, has announced the inauguration of its 2 new showrooms in Bihar state with presence in Madhubani and Samastipur. These new additions will further expand Quantum Energy’s presence and accessibility to Indian customers.
The inauguration of the showrooms took place in the presence of esteemed dignitaries and senior officials from Quantum Energy. Madhubani dealership spans approximately 1250 square feet and operates under Mithila E Motors. The dealership in Samastipur spans approximately 1200 square feet and operates under the dealership name Battery Point. The showrooms are strategically positioned to provide a convenient hub for customers to explore Quantum Energy’s cutting-edge electric scooters and firsthand experience their advanced features.
At the Mithila E Motors and Battery Point showrooms, all Quantum Energy electric scooters are prominently displayed, allowing visitors to marvel at the impeccable design, impressive performance, and exceptional build quality of each vehicle. The diverse lineup of electric scooters includes the Plasma, Elektron, Milan, and Bziness range, catering to a wide range of commuting needs for Indian consumers.
Speaking about the launch, Mr. Chakravarthi C., Managing Director of Quantum Energy Limited, expressed, With the opening of our new store in Madhubani and Samastipur, we are excited to increase our presence in Bihar as saw an amazing response at Gaya showroom we launched 6 months ago.. It is quite promising that there is a rising interest in electric two-wheelers in the state. Numerous cutting-edge features of our Quantum Energy scooters strongly appeal to all market sectors. Our commitment to making our cutting-edge electric scooters more accessible to the public is fueled by the growing demand for environmentally friendly mobility options. We are currently trying to create more showrooms in Bihar to accommodate this demand and make our eco-friendly mobility products more easily accessible.
Quantum Energy has expanded its network of showrooms around India to an amazing 60 and 03in Bihar with the opening of the Madhubani and Samastipur showrooms. With the support of the prestigious Kusalava Group, which has over 50 years of experience in the automotive industry, Quantum Energy is committed to reducing carbon emissions, reducing its carbon footprint, and making India a leader in sustainable mobility worldwide.
22, Feb 2024
Indian Revival Group presented, ‘PANCH PRAN’ at Jan Bharat Rang Mahotsav last evening
Jan Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2024, organized by the Ministry of Culture and National School of Drama, is celebrating 25 years of Bharat Rang Mahotsav. Indian Revival Group staged its new production depicting, ‘PANCH PRAN’ on Wednesday, February 21st, 2024 at Jan Bharat Rang Mahotsav for Bougain Villa Apartments Residents Association, Delhi at Gazebo Park, Sector B, Pocket 3, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.
22, Feb 2024
IIT Kanpur licenses innovative Bone Regeneration technology to Conlis Global Inc
Bengaluru, February 22, 2024: The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-K) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Conlis Global Inc. for licensing an innovative new technology that promotes bone healing and regeneration. Conlis Global Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Canada that helps to bring products from R&D to the market.
The MOU was signed by Prof. Tarun Gupta, Dean of Resources and Development at IIT Kanpur, and Dr. Sumrita Bhat, CEO, of Conlis Global Inc. at IIT Kanpur in the presence of Prof. S. Ganesh, Director, IIT Kanpur, Prof. Ankush Sharma, Professor In-charge, Start-up Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC), IIT Kanpur, Prof. Ashok Kumar, Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering, IIT Kanpur, and Dr. Raman Koul, Chief Technology Officer, Conlis Global Inc.
Prof. S. Ganesh, Director, IIT Kanpur highlighted the importance of this MOU by commenting, “The licensing of this novel technology developed in-house that promotes bone healing and regeneration to Conlis Global is yet another significant milestone in the R&D endeavour of the Institute. It is a testament to the high quality of research at IIT Kanpur that brings real and practical benefits to people. This innovative technology is a prime example of how we can make a real difference, and we are excited to see how this technology will help people, not just in India but worldwide! I congratulate Prof. Ashok Kumar and his team”.
Dr. Sumrita Bhat, CEO of Conlis Global Inc. expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of this technology, “We are thrilled to partner with IIT Kanpur to bring this innovative solution to the market. It represents a significant step forward in treating bone and joint disorders, and we look forward to taking this to market to benefit patients worldwide.”
Prof. Tarun Gupta, Dean of Resources and Development, IIT Kanpur said, “The signing of the MOU with Conlis Global is an important landmark in our efforts to build a bridge between research & development and taking a product from the lab to the commercial stage and into the market. This will inspire us to continue to work on supporting research in various domains and helping our engineers, scientists and other talent to bring their dreams into fruition.”
The technology, “Nano Hydroxyapatite-Based Porous Polymer Composite Scaffolds for Bioactive Molecule Delivery in Musculoskeletal Regeneration” has been developed by Prof. Ashok Kumar and his team from the Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering at IIT Kanpur.
Prof. Ashok Kumar, Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering, IIT Kanpur, said, “The technology facilitates bone regeneration in a biocompatible manner by acting as a carrier for bone-active biomolecules, delivering them directly to the site of an implant. The material is a promising approach for reconstructing and repairing bone defects while addressing the drawbacks and complications associated with technologies that are available in the market at present.”
22, Feb 2024
Newly elected President of ICAI CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal shared his vision for the year 2024-25
Bengaluru, Thursday, 22nd February 2024: The newly elected President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal shared his vision at a press conference held in New Delhi. His vision for the year is encapsulated in the initiative “DRISHTI” which means ‘vision’ that would lead the Institute towards groundbreaking advancements in the fields of Digitalization (D), Research (R), Integrity (I), Skills (S), Handholding (H), Transparency (T), and Independence (I). He believed that the CA profession, founded on a bedrock of ethics, integrity, and independence, would serve as the cornerstone propelling India towards becoming an economic powerhouse of the world by 2047.
For the first time, ICAI has formed a committee on “AI in ICAI” to explore how AI can be leveraged for the professional development of students, members, and employees. The institute has also taken initiatives for the students by providing digitalized and recorded tools to students across the country.
CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal & CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda was elected as the new President & Vice-President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) w.e.f. February 12, 2024. With more than 4 lakh members and over 8.5 lakh students, ICAI is the largest accounting body in the world. Through its 5 Regional Councils, 175 Branches, 50 Overseas Chapters & 31 Representative Offices, the Institute is taking forward its agenda of inclusive growth & continues to add glory to the profession.
While interacting with the media CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal, President, of ICAI said, “Since its inception in 1949, the Institute has grown significantly, contributing to the nation’s economic growth. With ‘Drishti’ we begin a journey to make 2024-2049, the Golden Period of the Profession. The framework not only guides the Institute but also lays the foundation for recommending standards and guidelines for green finance and audits to the government, supporting environmentally friendly activities and legislative development. With a focus on digitalization and incorporating Artificial Intelligence for the growth of the profession, we aim to integrate digital advancements into the core functionalities of ICAI, aiming to prepare a generation of professionals who are not only technologically adept but also ethically grounded and socially responsible, “DRISHTI” promises a future where ICAI leads with innovation and
integrity”.While sharing an update about the course, he emphasized that the CA Course is empowering the young population of this country, and the New Scheme of Education and Training that was launched last year on July 01 st is attracting more and more students to join the
profession. He further added, “Ethics and technology domains have been embedded in the curriculum at the final level so that aspiring CAs are equipped with the requisite competencies required in this dynamic global world”.
President ICAI also highlighted that ICAI has pioneered formulating Standards on Sustainability Reporting and shaping the ESG reporting landscape in the country. This year, too, ICAI will work towards developing guidelines and recommend standards to support and enhance green finance.
In order to create opportunities for accounting professionals abroad, ICAI has provided comments and inputs to the government on a regular basis in the area of Accounting, Bookkeeping, and Auditing services (CPC 862) in the ongoing negotiations on trade-in
services with its FTA partners – UK, Canada, and Australia. Further this year, ICAI plans to expand its global presence, which would provide a platform for Indian CAs abroad and facilitate bringing foreign investment to India. ICAI has constituted a new committee named as Committee for Aggregation of CA Firms. The mandate of this committee is to bring together the smaller firms and make them globally competant by pooling their resources. Towards strengthing infrastructure development, Presidents shared that 11 centers of excellence across the country are in the pipeline. As a socially responsible institution, ICAI is going to adopt the ‘Each One Teach One’ initiative, wherein members will mentor students for their professional development, in CA. Agarwal added.
