12, Feb 2024
Empowering Rural Communities: Aster RV Hospitals Joins Forces for a Remote Healthcare Initiative
In a significant step towards promoting the well-being of Communities living in rural regions, Rural Communitis, joined forces with Vanavasi Kalyana Trust to organize a comprehensive health camp in a remote village near Kanakapura. The event aimed to address the healthcare needs of the rural population by offering a range of medical services, including general checkups, eye examinations, dental care, and health awareness programs.
The health camp, conducted in collaboration with Aster RV Hospital’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, witnessed an enthusiastic response from the remote rural communities. J. Parashuram, Assistant Manager, CSR, Aster RV Hospital, expressed his commitment to making healthcare accessible to underserved populations. “We believe in the power of collaboration to bring about positive change. Partnering with Vanavasi Kalyana Trust allowed us to extend our services to those who need it the most,” said Parashuram. A team of dedicated volunteers of the Aster Volunteer team catered to close to 200 rural and tribal communities from the nearby Kanakpura village at Govt. Higher Secondary School premises, Kodihalli hobli, Kanakpura Taluk, Ramanagara District over the weekend and conducted Health Check up camp
The health camp covered various aspects of healthcare, focusing on preventive measures and early detection of health issues. The medical team, consisting of 11 doctors, nursing staff, and dedicated volunteers, provided free services, including BMI calculations, eye checkups, and distribution of free spectacles for those in need. The camp also included general checkups and the distribution of essential medications.
One of the highlights of the event was the provision of free ECG tests, ensuring that cardiovascular health was assessed for all participants. Dental checkups were also conducted, with the distribution of toothpaste and brushes to promote oral hygiene. The medical team took the opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good dental health in the community. Hygiene awareness sessions were conducted to emphasize the significance of maintaining cleanliness and adopting healthy practices in daily life. In addition to medical services, the camp included training sessions first aid services. Participants were educated on how to call for an ambulance and provide basic support in emergency situations. This initiative aimed to empower the community with essential life-saving skills, ensuring they are better equipped to handle emergencies.
Aster Hospitals started Aster Volunteers with a singular vision, to unite people from all walks of life in helping make the world a little better. The initiatives of Aster volunteers through medical and non-medical aid, seek to impact the underserved sections of our society. This short but deeply fulfilling journey of 6 years has helped impact the lives of 4 million+ people, with just 53,000 volunteers. This initiative exemplifies the commitment to making quality healthcare accessible to all, irrespective of geographical barriers. As the hospital continues to work towards the well-being of underserved communities, such initiatives pave the way for a healthier and more inclusive society.
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- By Rabindra
12, Feb 2024
7 Book Covers Make It to the Shortlist of the Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize 2024
Kolkata, February 12, 2024: Dr. Alka Pande, Priti Paul, Dr. Kunal Basu and Anja Riedeberger and announced the seven shortlisted titles on the second day of the 15th Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival (AKLF).
A list of 7 book covers chosen by the distinguished jury comprising author and Member of Parliament, Dr. Shashi Tharoor; author, columnist and novelist, Shobhaa De; author and academic, Dr. Kunal Basu; Museum Curator and Jury Chair, Dr. Alka Pande; Director, Apeejay Surrendra Group and the creative force behind the Oxford Bookstore chain, Priti Paul and Guest Jurors, Director, Institut français in India and Counsellor for Cooperation and Cultural Action, French Embassy in India, Emmanuel Lebrun- Damiens and Director Information Services South Asia Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan Anja Riedeberger, were announced at the marque event.
In its first year, Bena Sareen was awarded the prize for the book, “Talking of Justice” by late author, Leila Seth, published by Aleph. The following year designer Pinaki De was declared winner for the book “Kalkatta” authored by Kunal Basu, published by Picador India. The third Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize was awarded to Maithili Doshi Aphale for the book “Himalaya” authored by Ruskin Bond and Namita Gokhale, published by Speaking Tiger. In the fourth year the prize was awarded to Bonita Vaz Shimray for the book “Remnants of a Separation” by Aanchal Malhotra published by HarperCollins. The fifth edition prize was handed over to Sneha Pamneja for “Tiffin”, published by Roli Books. Graphic Designer Gunjan Ahlawat was awarded the prestigious award in the sixth edition for the book “Gun Island” by Amitav Ghosh, published by Hamish Hamilton, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Renowned visual artist, designer and researcher, Ishan Khosla was adjudged the winner of the seventh edition of the prestigious prize. Khosla won the award for designing the cover of ‘Kintsugi’ by author Anukrti Upadhyay, published by Fourth Estate. Paramita Brahmachari bagged the eighth Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize for designing the cover of the book titled, Pebble Monkey by Manindra Gupta, published by Jadavpur University Press.
SHORTLIST – OXFORD BOOKSTORE BOOK COVER PRIZE 2024
1. NOMINATED BOOK- The Book Beautiful
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Pradeep Sebastian
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Bhavi Mehta
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Hachette India Adult & Business/ An Imprint of Hachette India
2. NOMINATED BOOK – The Penguin Book of Indian Poets
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Edited by Jeet Thayil
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Ahlawat Gunjan
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Hamish Hamilton/ An Imprint of Penguin Random House
3. NOMINATED BOOK- Azad Nagar
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Laura T. Murphy
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Saurav Das
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Solo Nomination/ HarperCollins India
4. NOMINATED BOOK- The Adornment of Gods
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Devdutt Pattanaik
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Saurabh Garge
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Westland Books
5. NOMINATED BOOK – Not Quite a Disaster after All
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Buku Sarkar
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Amit Malhotra
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Harper Fiction/ An Imprint of HarperCollins India
6. NOMINATED BOOK- When Indian Flowers Bloomed in Europe
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Ebeltje Hartkamp- Jonxis
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Sashi Bhushan Prasad
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- TAPI Collection/ An Imprint of Niyogi Books
7. NOMINATED BOOK- Mystics and Sceptics
NAME OF THE AUTHOR- Namita Gokhale
NAME OF THE DESIGNER- Bonita Vaz Shimray
NAME OF THE PUBLISHER- Harper Non Fiction/ An Imprint of HarperCollins India
12, Feb 2024
Expansion of oncology services in tier two cities to close the care gap in cancer treatment in India
Delhi February 12, 2024: At least 50% of lung cancer cases in India occur in non-smokers, said the doctors during the two-day IO-CON2024 advances in Cancer Care scientific conference on Saturday in Delhi.
The oncologists emphasised that 50% of lung cancer cases in India are caused by declining air quality, aside from lifestyle factors. It is concerning that in some circumstances, the patient has never smoked and arrives at the doctor’s office in a more advanced state. Because tobacco smoking is so pervasive in India, head and neck cancer is quite common among men there, accounting for 30% of all cancer cases. On the other hand, breast cancer is most common among women with every eighth woman in India suffering with breast cancer.
“Of the almost 14 lakh new cancer cases diagnosed in India every year, more than 60% get diagnosed in advanced stages which underscores the need for an enhancing the awareness and diagnosis,” stated Dr. Shubham Garg, Director of Surgical Oncology, IOCI, Fortis Hospital, Noida.
Dr Anita Malik, Senior Consultant and Clinical Lead Radiation Oncology at IOCI said, “In India, there are more than 640 radiation therapy equipment, but because the country is now experiencing a 5-7% annual growth in cancer cases, the number of machines needs to be scaled up 1400 as per WHO. The infrastructure costs associated with any oncology institution exceed Rs 100 crore, and the cost of radiation devices is at least Rs 25 crore. This calls for a sufficient public-private cooperation to make the treatment accessible to the greatest number of people, which is still limited to a set of people.”
Dr PK Sharma, Executive Director, International Oncology Cancer Institute said, “The International Oncology Cancer Institute’s 15 years of providing cancer care was celebrated by organising IO-CON2024. The organisation has made progress in establishing oncology centres in cities such as Kanpur, Saharanpur, Indore, Aurangabad, Jodhpur, Greater Noida, and Mumbai.”
Dr. Madhur Garg, the Clinical Director of Radiation Oncology at Montefiore Medical Center in the United States, emphasizes the importance of expanding oncology services in tier two cities in India. He advocates for a strong public-private partnership to achieve this goal. Dr. Garg points out that doctors are willing to serve in tier two cities, provided there is adequate infrastructure in place to support cancer treatment services.
He also acknowledges the positive impact of the Ayushman Bharat health coverage provided by the Government of India. This health coverage initiative offers financial assistance for cancer treatment, which is expected to improve the accessibility of testing and treatment processes for people living in smaller towns across the country.
“Molecular testing, often performed alongside biopsies, helps identify specific genetic mutations or alterations present in cancer cells. Molecular testing provides insights into the genetic makeup of tumors, allowing oncologists to select targeted therapies that are more likely to be effective against specific molecular targets. In addition, for a holistic treatment, personalized medicine in oncology leverages molecular testing and comprehensive genomic profiling to develop individualized treatment strategies that consider the unique genetic, molecular, and environmental factors influencing each patient’s cancer. This approach holds great promise for improving treatment outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with cancer.
Dr Rajat Bajaj, Program Director, IOCI said, “The future of cancer treatment is every optimistic, but the key lies in the timely detection which requires more people friendly approach at the oncology centres. The medical services must reach in smaller cities where the cooperation of government and the private sector I healthcare will make a difference and save more lives.”
During the event on advances in cancer care oncologists from IOCI including Dr Jalaj Baxi, Dr Kabir Rehmani and Dr Rakesh Ojha addressed a panel discussion on future of cancer care in India.
12, Feb 2024
PRIME MeghaPreneur Expo 2024 Ignites Entrepreneurial Excellence in Meghalaya
National, February 12, 2024: The three-day PRIME MeghaPreneur Expo 2024, held at the SRGT Polo Ground, marked a triumphant celebration of entrepreneurial zeal in Meghalaya. The event, graced by the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Conrad K Sangma, underscored the government’s steadfast commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent across the state.
Dignitaries including Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Minister of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Shri AL Hek, Minister of Tourism Shri Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Minister of Legal Metrology Department, Revenue & Disaster Management Department, Excise Department Shri Kyrmen Shylla, Hon’ble MLA Shri Ian Botham Sangma, Hon’ble Commissioner & Secretary, Government of Meghalaya, Dr Vijay Kumar D, IAS, among others, graced the occasion, further highlighting the government’s dedication to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In his opening speech, Hon’ble Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma reiterated the government’s dedication to promoting entrepreneurship through initiatives like the CM ELEVATE Program. He emphasized the program’s goal of empowering over 20,000 entrepreneurs across diverse sectors within the next 3 to 4 years—a landmark endeavour in the state’s history. Highlighting the substantial government support, he announced contributions totalling approximately Rs 22.67 crores to bolster 71 entrepreneurs across various sectors.
Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma stated, “As a government, we firmly believe that entrepreneurship serves as the cornerstone for driving the economy of a nation or state. Our strategy, since the inception of MDA I, has been centred around fostering entrepreneurship as the main driver of the economy and creator of employment within our state. Our mission is to acknowledge and support as many entrepreneurs as possible, thus laying the foundation for a vibrant entrepreneurial culture. Through initiatives like CM ELEVATE, most progressive entrepreneurship program, we aim to provide substantial support, offering a 75 percent subsidy and comprehensive assistance to nurture business growth and logistical support and administrative support.”
Hon’ble Chief Minister added, “Our goal is to empower over 20,000 entrepreneurs across various sectors within the next 3 to 4 years—an unprecedented feat in our state’s history. Recognizing our efforts, the Government of India has awarded us as a top-performing state in the national startup awards amongst small states. This achievement is a testament to the vision and collaborative effort of our team at PRIME and the response we have received continuous feedback from entrepreneurs. With over 5,500 entrepreneurs currently under our support, we anticipate a significant increase in the coming years. Congratulations to all the winners and beneficiaries, who represent the driving force behind our entrepreneurial ecosystem and serve as beacons of inspiration for society”.
The event concluded with a series of awards ceremonies, including the handing of the Certificate to the PRIME team for the TOP Performer Award, and the CM ELEVATE Award. The event marked the presentation of certificates and cheques to the Cohort 4 incubatees of the Chief Minister’s E- Championship Challenge 4.0, PRIME Advanced training centres as well as the certificate distribution to the Graduating incubated entrepreneurs of the Chief Minister’s E-Championship Challenge 3.0, among other events followed by a fashion show and dance performance added flair to the evening.
Moreover, the event provided a platform for engaging discussions and presentations by industry experts like Mr. Jayanta Das, Mr. Shashank Kumar, and Mr. Raghuram Kuchibatla, enriching the entrepreneurial landscape in Meghalaya. Acknowledging the accomplishments of existing entrepreneurs, the expo featured captivating sessions by entrepreneurs like Mr. Elvee Marbaniang from Runo Health, among others.
The expo also facilitated academic institutes in showcasing their entrepreneurial endeavors, with St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, and Shillong College sharing their experiences with the Entrepreneurship Development Program (EPDP). Mr. Pranjal Konwar, COO of IIMCIP, provided an insightful overview of PRIME and its pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship in the region.
In summary, the three-day PRIME MeghaPreneur Expo 2024 emerged as a resounding success, epitomizing the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation in Meghalaya, and serving as a catalyst for inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs.
12, Feb 2024
Telerehabilitation for Sustainable health
Dr. Vinodhkumar Ramalingam, Professor & Head of Sports and Manual Therapy, Saveetha College of Physiotherapy, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science, Chennai
The field of telerehabilitation, with its technological developments, presents great potential for promoting sustainable health within our ecosystem. This can be achieved through various means, such as enhancing patient access to healthcare, cutting costs, optimizing resource use, minimizing environmental impact, improving continuity of care, empowering patients, minimizing environmental impact, developing innovative healthcare models, and more.
Through telerehabilitation, people in rural or underserved areas can receive healthcare treatments without being hindered by distance. This enhanced accessibility can lead to early detection and management of health issues, reducing the burden on healthcare facilities and preventing the escalation of health problems. Telerehabilitation cuts down on the costs of in-person clinical visits by offering remote consultations, monitoring, and interventions. This includes savings on facility fees and travel costs. Moreover, early intervention and prevention facilitated by telerehabilitation can potentially decrease the overall cost of care by preventing the progression of diseases and complications.
Telerehabilitation facilitates seamless coordination and communication between patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals by fostering continuity of care across several locations and healthcare specialists in a real time. Telerehabilitation empowers patients to actively participate in the management of their own healthcare by providing them with tailored health information, technology for remote monitoring, and training materials.
In a book chapter on telerehabilitation in physiotherapy, Prof. Dr. Vinodhkumar and his colleagues expressed their strong belief that telerehabilitation can lead to long-term improvements in healthcare delivery through improving patient empowerment, continuity of care, cost reduction, resource optimization, and environmental minimization. The long-term resilience and sustainability of global health ecosystems can be enhanced by embracing telerehabilitation as an essential part of sustainable health.
12, Feb 2024
Unlock Your Potential: The Power of Posture in a Digital World
By
Dr. M. Kamalakannan., PhD., MPT(Ortho)., COMT., PgDip (Bioethics & Human rights)., MIAP.
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, we’re constantly bombarded with screens – from smartphones and tablets to laptops and desktop computers. As we immerse ourselves in this digital landscape, we often neglect one crucial aspect of our health and well-being: our posture. But what if I told you that proper posture is not just about sitting up straight? It’s about unlocking your full potential – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Let’s delve into the transformative power of posture in our modern, digital age.
The Impact of Digital Devices: Picture this: you’re scrolling through your smartphone, engrossed in social media updates or replying to emails. Hours pass by, and before you know it, your neck is stiff, your shoulders are tense, and your lower back aches. Sound familiar? This phenomenon, known as “tech neck,” is just one of the many consequences of poor posture in the digital era.
Research shows that the average person spends hours each day hunched over digital devices, leading to a host of musculoskeletal issues, including neck pain, back pain, and headaches. The constant strain on our bodies not only affects our physical health but also takes a toll on our mental well-being, contributing to stress, fatigue, and even mood disorders.
Understanding Good Posture: So, what exactly is good posture, and why does it matter? At its core, good posture involves aligning your spine, shoulders, and hips in a neutral position, maintaining a natural curve in your spine, and keeping your head balanced atop your shoulders. This alignment allows your muscles and joints to work efficiently, reducing the risk of strain and injury. But good posture is not just about standing or sitting up straight; it’s a dynamic balance that adapts to different activities and movements. Whether you’re sitting at your desk, walking down the street, or exercising at the gym, practicing good posture is essential for optimal health and performance.
The Benefits of Good Posture: The benefits of maintaining good posture extend far beyond physical health. When you stand tall with confidence, you exude an air of self-assurance andpoise that commands attention. Good posture can boost your self-esteem, improve your body language, and enhance your professional presence in social and professional settings.
From a physical standpoint, good posture helps prevent musculoskeletal pain and discomfort by reducing the strain on your muscles and joints. It improves your breathing and circulation, ensuring that your body receives an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. And let’s not forget the mental benefits – good posture can boost your mood, increase your energy levels, and sharpen your focus and concentration.
Practical Tips for Better Posture: Now that we understand the importance of good posture, how can we incorporate it into our daily lives? Here are some practical tips to help you maintain better posture in a digital world:
- Take regular breaks: Set a timer to remind yourself to take breaks from digital devices every hour. Use this time to stretch, move around, and reposition your body.
- Practice mindfulness: Be mindful of your posture throughout the day. Notice how you’re sitting, standing, and moving, and make adjustments as needed to align your body properly.
- Invest in ergonomic solutions: Use ergonomic furniture and accessories, such as ergonomic chairs, standing desks, and laptop stands, to support good posture while working or studying.
- Flex and Fortify: Enhance Your Posture with Customized Exercises! Incorporate stretching and strengthening routines into your daily regimen to boost flexibility and muscle balance. Concentrate on exercises that target problem areas like the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Consult a physiotherapist for personalized workout plans tailored to your needs.
- Stay active: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, to keep your muscles strong and flexible. Physical activity not only supports good posture but also enhances overall health and well-being.
Cultivating a Posture-Positive Lifestyle: Finally, let’s talk about cultivating a posture-positive lifestyle that extends beyond the physical realm. Embrace mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, to cultivate body awareness and relaxation. And most importantly, be patient and consistent in your posture journey – Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is perfect posture.
10, Feb 2024
Yudiz Solutions signs MoU with LJ Institute of Engineering & Technology, LJ University
Ahmedabad: Yudiz Solutions, a leading digital transformation and technology services provider, has signed an MoU with LJ Institute of Engineering and Technology, a recognized and renowned institute of technical education, to align its expertise with rapid advancements in academia. Both organizations aspire to leverage their combined knowledge and practical applications of emerging technologies through intern projects, consultancy services, training programs, and various other projects.
The MoU was signed by Mr. Pratik Patel, Managing Director, Yudiz Solutions Limited, and Mr. Rohit Patel, Advisor (1), Mosam Pandya, Internship Coordinator LJ Institute of Engineering & Technology, LJ University, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
This collaboration aims to synergize the expertise of various departments with the software domain to keep Yudiz Solutions in step with the developments in academia and research. The former aims to bring theoretical knowledge in real-life scenarios and bridge the gap between industry practices and academic research by opening doors for internships for both graduates and postgraduate students and providing them with a unique opportunity to thrive in the Industrial practical space.
Commenting on the MoU, Mr. Pratik Patel, Managing Director, of Yudiz Solutions Limited, said, “We recognize the significance of staying abreast of the latest developments in Information Technology. L.J Institute of Engineering & Technology, LJ University has a state-of-the-art training infrastructure and a highly accomplished and reputed faculty. This MoU with expert faculty signifies our commitment to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of technological innovation. Further, we believe the synergy between industry and academia is crucial for a dynamic and knowledgeable workforce. We are confident that this collaboration will contribute significantly to the professional development of students and strengthen the ties between industry and academia.”
Mr. Rohit Patel, Advisor at LJ Institute of Engineering & Technology, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “This partnership signifies LJ University’s commitment to nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among our students. We look forward to working closely with Yudiz Solutions to provide our students with invaluable industry exposure and hands-on learning opportunities.
Furthermore, the subjects of research and projects span a wide range of technologies including Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Cryptography, Gaming Applications, and Blockchain-based solutions. In light of this MoU, Yudiz Solutions seeks to align its expertise with rapid advancements in academia on key areas that will be further inclusive of the above-mentioned subjects like Embedded System Security, Sensor Networks, Cyber Security, and AR/VR. Yudiz Solutions Limited aims to fill in the shortfall of practical knowledge application and accelerate the symphony of synergizing theoretical expertise with practical proficiency of emerging technologies by equipping the students with exceptionally innovative opportunities for real-world application.
Such collaborative efforts made by both industry giants will help young tech gain real Industry-level experiences. It will help them become confident professionals who are ready to put their knowledge, contributing to the progress of the modern technology landscape.
10, Feb 2024
Rainmaker Hosts Webinar on the Inclusion of Menstrual Leave at the Workplace
Mumbai, February 10, 2024 – Rainmaker, India’s leading culture and compliance learning solutions company, recently hosted an insightful Rainmaker All-Inclusive webinar on whether menstrual leave should be included in an organization’s leave policies. Titled “The New Era of Leave Policies: Do We Need the Period Leave?”, the webinar provided a platform for a spirited discussion aimed to dissect the discourse around menstrual leave and its relevance within organizational leave policies. The webinar recognized menstruation as a natural biological process impacting various aspects of life, including at the workplace.
Joining Rainmaker CEO, Antony J Alex, for the discussion were leading HR executive Kapil Vardhan, Head of People at Mensa Brands, legal expert Mirul Bhavsar, Head of Legal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and DEI specialist, Supriya Rehill, Head of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility, Mahindra Logistics. Together, the panelists addressed the necessity of identifying and accommodating menstruating employees’ specific requirements.
Expressing his perspective on the matter, Antony J. Alex, Founder & CEO of Rainmaker, said, “The aim of this webinar was to draw attention to the difficulties that menstruating women endure, as well as the influence menstruation has on their emotional well-being and professional lives. It is important to create an environment that encourages open dialogue concerning menstruation, standardizing discussions about menstrual health, and enacting inclusive policies that assist employees amid the challenging menstrual cycle. It is also imperative to recognize and address these requirements within organizational frameworks to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment. Kapil, Mirul and Supriya offered insightful perspectives that ignited discussions on this relevant topic and I’m grateful for their time and expertise.”
The event also addressed concerns raised about potential implications for gender equality and workplace dynamics, with some suggesting that it may inadvertently reinforce stereotypes or create divisions.
Kapil Vardhan, Head of People at Mensa Brands, said, “Empowering organizations to embrace progressive leave policies is not just about fostering inclusivity; it’s about recognizing the diverse needs of employees and championing their well-being. The dialogue sparked during the Rainmaker All-Inclusive Webinar exemplifies our collective commitment to shaping a workplace culture that prioritizes empathy and understanding. I’m honored to have been a part of this conversation.”
Advocates further underscored the importance of acknowledging and accommodating these needs within organizational frameworks to create a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Mirul Bhavsar, Head of Legal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, shared her thoughts, saying, “In today’s rapidly evolving workplace landscape, redefining leave policies isn’t merely about implementing another good-to-have policy; it’s about adapting to change, and fostering a culture of support and understanding, while offering an all-inclusive and conducive work environment. The Rainmaker All-Inclusive Webinar served as a testament to our shared dedication to crafting environments where every individual’s needs are identified, valued and respected. I’m grateful that Team Rainmaker invited me to be a part of this exceptionally important discussion. Conversations like these provide a platform and encourage open dialogue on this crucial topic, prioritizing empathy and the normalization of challenges associated with menstruation, before we go for any formal policy or law on this.”
Rainmaker is a pioneering force in culture and compliance learning solutions, and is passionately committed to training individuals and organizations in ethical conduct. The company has a wide variety of offerings, such as workshops, e-modules and policy development, in the space of Prevention of Sexual Harassment, Anti-Bribery & Anti-Corruption, Data Protection & Privacy, Code of Conduct, Leadership Development, among others.
10, Feb 2024
Manipal Academy of Higher Education and Basketball Federation of India Forge Alliance to Propel Athletic Excellence
Manipal, Karnataka, 10th February 2024: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) and the Basketball Federation of India (BFI) have joined forces in a ground-breaking partnership aimed at nurturing athletic talent and fostering a culture of excellence within Indian basketball.
This historic collaboration between MAHE and BFI signifies a profound convergence of vision, where both entities share an unwavering dedication to not just achieving greatness but also fostering athleticism and building more resilient, empowered communities through the power of sports. It marks a pivotal moment in the trajectory of Indian basketball, where the combined expertise and resources of MAHE and BFI are poised to drive significant advancements in the sport.
In steadfast alignment with their commitment to holistic education, MAHE and BFI acknowledge the transformative role that athletics play in shaping well-rounded individuals. This partnership goes beyond merely honing basketball skills; it underscores the fundamental importance of sports in instilling resilience, discipline, and unwavering character in students. By integrating sports into the educational fabric, MAHE and BFI aim to equip students with the necessary tools not only to excel on the court but also to thrive in all aspects of life.
Dr H S Ballal – Pro Chancellor & President, Academy of General Education, MAHE emphasizes, “With the Basketball Federation of India, we are not only forming a partnership, but also fostering a common vision of greatness, athleticism, and community as we set out on this revolutionary journey. Our shared goals are to develop athletic talent, provide confidence to aspiring athletes, and motivate the next wave of champions. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to holistic education, which views athletics as a vital component in developing resilient, disciplined, and well-rounded students.
Dr Sharath Kumar Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) said that MAHE Manipal gives a lot of importance to extra-curricular activities along with curricula. With this partnership, we can achieve a significant milestone in the advancement of basketball development in India. MAHE is always ready to encourage sports and with the help of the Basketball Federation of India, we will allow our students to become successful athletes on and off the court,”
, Registrar of MAHE Manipal was present on this occasion.
The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Aadhav Arjuna, President – of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), and Shyam Adithya, Chief Financial Officer of BFI. Aadhav Arjuna, a former professional player, leads BFI with a vision for holistic athlete development and infrastructure enhancement. Shyam Adithya, a seasoned Chartered Accountant, brings over 15 years of global experience in driving digital transformation Together, they aim to propel Indian basketball to international prominence.
Excited about the partnership, Aadhav Arjuna, President – of the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), commented, “Our objective is to promote basketball as more than just a sport, but as a means of personal development, community involvement, and national pride, our cooperation with MAHE represents a critical turning point. With this partnership, we hope to foster an environment of greatness by offering ambitious athletes access to top-notch facilities, knowledgeable coaching, and academic support to help them succeed on and off the court. Together, we’re dedicated to developing the next wave of basketball talent and giving them the tools, they need to skilfully, passionately, and honorably represent India on the world stage”.
The alliance between Manipal Academy of Higher Education and the Basketball Federation of India marks a significant milestone in the advancement of basketball development in India. Together, they are poised to revolutionize the sports landscape, empower aspiring athletes, and propel India towards athletic excellence.
10, Feb 2024
SIDBI unveils “Prabhaav” – An Impact Study of the Fund of Funds for Startups
Hyderabad/ 10th February 2024: Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), a key component of the Startup India Action Plan launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji in 2016, is today one of the flagship programmes of DPIIT, Government of India and has proven to be a game changing intervention of Government of India in country’s Startup Ecosystem. The scheme is being managed by SIDBI on behalf of, and under the overall guidance and direction of DPIIT.
In this connection, a third-party assessment of the scheme was undertaken by CRISIL, India’s premier analytics company and pioneer of AIF benchmarking in the country. CRISIL’s impact assessment report viz. Prabhaav, was unveiled today by SIDBI.
Shri S. Ramann, Chairman & Managing Director, SIDBI along with Shri S P Singh, CGM Venture Finance, presented the report to Dr Vivek Joshi, Secretary, Dept. of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, GoI, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, IAS, Secretary, DPIIT and Shri Sanjiv, IRS, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
The Fund of Funds for Startups, which contributes to the corpus of category I & II Alterative Investment Funds (AIFs), with a mandate for investment to startups, is one of the key initiatives which has transformed India into the 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world today, by providing a sizeable catalytic pool of risk & growth capital to startups.
The report reveals heartening all-round outcomes of this initiative of GoI on aspects encompassing multiplied flow of capital, innovative solutions, inclusiveness & diversity in coverage of startups, deepening of startup funding ecosystem in the hinterlands of the country, strengthening of governance as well as wealth creation.
Key highlights of the report indicate that as on November 30, 2023, as many as 129 AIFs have been sanctioned commitment out of FFS across segments. The scheme has already catalysed investments to the tune of ~4x of the amount drawn with ₹17,534 crore invested in 938 unique startups. Thus, the scheme resulted in significant multiplier effect, promoting enhanced capital flow into this segment. While FFS largely focusses on early-stage funding in young companies, as many as 18 of its startups have already become unicorns.
The scheme has also channelised investments in startups in emerging sectors such as deep tech, agri/agri solutions, health tech, financial services, and sustainability. Implemented with emphasis on diversity & inclusiveness, after launch of FFS, 129 startups beyond Tier 1 cities have received investments aggregating ₹1,590 crore. Another heartening outcome was the increasing support to women led startups as well as women led fund managers.
The scheme has ushered in a revolution in Venture Capital Space in India too, emerging as hallmark of approval for the fund managers as well. As per the survey conducted by CRISIL as part of the assessment, 89% respondents confirmed that support under FFS was instrumental in anchoring their fund raise. More than 75% respondents said they experienced a positive impact in raising non-institutional domestic capital post commitment by SIDBI under the scheme. Further, out of the AIFs supported, as high as 35% are being managed by first time Fund Managers, which will help deepen and enhance the reach of the AIF / VC funding ecosystem, as summed up by CRISIL in its assessment.
The Secretary, DFS and Secretary, DPIIT appreciated the initiatives and progress demonstrated by SIDBI in managing the scheme and the outcomes already achieved.
Since, its formation in 1990, when the risk capital and VC ecosystem for innovative enterprises and startups was nearly non-existent in the country, SIDBI has been impacting the lives of citizens across various strata of the society through its integrated, innovative, and inclusive approach. Over the last 3 decades, SIDBI has taken several pioneering steps to support building up of startup ecosystem including support out of its own balance sheet. SIDBI supported setting up of several schemes on its own before emerging as a key partner of the Government of India and several State Governments for managing their vision in Startup space through Fund of Funds interventions. Apart from FFS, it also manages ASPIRE Fund of Funds of Ministry of MSME with focus on Agro and Rural enterprises, and state focussed Fund of Funds for Uttar Pradesh & Odisha.
