18, Jan 2024
Odisha Secures Coveted “Top Performer” Position in DPIIT State Startup Rankings 2022
Bhubaneswar 18th 2024: Odisha’s unwavering commitment to building a thriving startup ecosystem is underscored by its impressive achievement as the “Top Performer” in the DPIIT State Startup Ranking 2022. This accolade was unveiled by Shri Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and Textiles during a distinguished felicitation ceremony held on January 16, 2023, in New Delhi.
The 4th edition of the State Startup Ranking, conducted by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), aimed to fortify the collaborative efforts of States and Union Territories (UTs) in fostering comprehensive and vibrant startup ecosystems. The State Startup Ranking Framework 2022 was meticulously crafted as a robust and results-driven initiative, intending to catalyze significant advancements in every State and UT. The evaluation process involved a thorough assessment of responses across various parameters.
A total of 25 action points were used to map a combination of absolute, relative, and feedback-based grading in order to give a comprehensive picture of the state’s or support UT’s distinctive startup environment.
The framework encouraged 31 states and union territories to work towards reducing regulations for the expansion of startups and strengthening support for the startup ecosystem. This exercise having launched in 2018, awarded Odisha for being the “Top Performer” for its support to the Startup Ecosystem in 2019 and in State Startup Ranking- 2021, Odisha took a leap yet again to be accorded with the Top Performer position for instituting inclusive and holistic policies and schemes to develop entrepreneurs across every corner of the State. Now in 2022 Odisha has retained its position of ‘Top Performers’ which is a testament to the state’s progressive initiatives for empowering the young talent who aspire to become entrepreneurs.
Dr. Omkar Rai, Executive Chairman, Startup Odisha said, “Odisha’s retention of the ‘Top Performer’ status in the DPIIT State Startup Rankings 2022 is a testament to our unwavering commitment. Under the visionary guidance of Shri Naveen Patnaik, we are driven to not just maintain but elevate the capabilities of our startup ecosystem. Odisha is wholeheartedly dedicated to creating a conducive environment with a new startup policy which is under consideration, aligning with global best practices, focusing on ESG factors, and promoting women’s entrepreneurship. Our goal is to inspire and support an increasing number of entrepreneurs on their journey”
Startup Odisha has nurtured over 1,800 start-ups across agritech, IT, artificial intelligence, healthcare, fintech, and biotechnology sectors out of which 42% are women-led startups. Startup Odisha is on its way foster at least 5,000 startups by 2025. The state hosts 27 incubators, and among them is O-Hub, the Government of Odisha’s incubator, featuring an expansive four lakh sq ft space—one of the largest incubators in the entire country. At present, there are 75 active Entrepreneurship Cells (E-cells) and 93 incubates. These numbers are only set to grow in the years to come.
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- By Rabindra
17, Jan 2024
Hitachi Payment Services launches its new financial inclusion initiative
Mumbai, January 17, 2024: Hitachi Payment Services, India’s leading payments and commerce solutions provider today launched its financial inclusion business to redefine access to financial services for the underbanked and unbanked sections of society. Through this strategic launch, the company has added a critical extension to its existing bouquet of services and will further drive inclusive growth.
List of services includes – Aadhaar Enabled Payment Services, Micro ATM Services, Domestic Money Transfers, Mobile & DTH Recharges, and Bill Payments
For the initial launch, Hitachi Payment Services has partnered with YES BANK, demonstrating its commitment to collaborative efforts for financial inclusion. The partnership leverages YES BANK’s strong banking expertise and Hitachi Payment Services’ extensive network and technology infrastructure to provide reliable and secure financial services to the underserved.
The financial inclusion business will be operated under the brand ‘Hitachi Money Spot Plus’ through a network of retailers called Hitachi Partners and will have a strong focus in Tier 3 to Tier 6 towns across the country. Driving financial empowerment and innovation, the array of services under financial inclusion business has been made available through its comprehensive app ‘Hitachi Money Spot Plus’ on Google Playstore. The app provides a convenient one-stop platform for financial services and this digital approach complements the Hitachi Partners network, ensuring accessibility and seamless service delivery across the country.
On the launch of the financial inclusion initiative, Anuj Khosla, Chief Executive Officer – Digital Business, Hitachi Payment Services, said, “The remarkable growth of internet penetration and financial literacy in India, especially in our rural communities, presents an urgent call for a resilient payment infrastructure that can keep pace with this rapid expansion. Retailers and merchants are the last mile touchpoints, enabling easy access to finance for customers. Recognizing this, we are extending our services to include financial inclusion initiatives. In essence, we are not just building a payment infrastructure; we are building bridges to financial empowerment and contributing to the nation’s progress.”
Mr. Naveen Chaluvadi, Chief Digital Officer at YES BANK, said “YES BANK has partnered with Hitachi Payment Services to launch Hitachi Money Spot Plus as part of our commitment to promote financial inclusion. This initiative is aimed at enabling financial transactions at hinterlands, focus on taking digital benefits to last mile in an assisted digital mode”.
Anuj Saraswat, Business Head, Financial Services & Inclusion, Hitachi Payment Services, stated “At Hitachi Payment Services, innovation and financial empowerment are the guiding principles that drive everything we do. We believe that everyone should have access to the financial tools and resources that they require to progress, and we are committed to using technology to make that a reality. Our mission is to bridge the financial divide to empower individuals and communities to thrive. With ‘Hitachi Money Spot Plus’ we have embarked on a transformative journey to build a more inclusive financial ecosystem in India.”
17, Jan 2024
Study uncovers potential origins of life in ancient hot springs
Scientists at Newcastle University found that mixing hydrogen, bicarbonate, and iron-rich magnetite under conditions mimicking relatively mild hydrothermal vent results in the formation of a spectrum of organic molecules, most notably including fatty acids stretching up to 18 carbon atoms in length. The Natural Environmental Research Council of the United Kingdom provided funding for the research team, which examined how the Earth’s first life
systems formed from inert geological components over 3.5 billion years ago.
Their discoveries, which were published in the journal Nature Communications Earth & Environment, may clarify how some important molecules required to generate life are derived from inorganic substances. This knowledge is crucial for comprehending an important phase in the formation of life on Earth billions of years ago. Their research could offer a believable explanation for the origin of the organic molecules that make up ancient cell membranes, which were possibly picked at random by early biochemical processes on the primordial Earth.
Dr Graham Purvis, the study’s lead author, is a postdoctoral research associate at Durham University and carried out the research at Newcastle University. He said, “The results suggest that the convergence of hydrogen-rich fluids from alkaline hydrothermal vents with bicarbonate-rich waters on iron-based minerals could have precipitated the rudimentary membranes of early cells at the very beginning of life.”
Fatty acids in the early stages of life
Long chemical molecules called fatty acids have sections that both attract and repel water. As a result, these molecules would naturally form cell-like compartments in water, and these molecules may be the source of the first cell membranes. However, in the early stages of life, the origin of these fatty acids remained unknown, despite their significance. One theory is that they may have developed at the hydrothermal vents, which are areas where hot water and hydrogen-rich fluids from underwater vents combine with CO2-containing seawater.
The group replicated critical components of the chemical environment present in early Earth’s oceans and the mixing of the hot alkaline water from around specific kinds of hydrothermal vents in their laboratory. They found that the kinds of molecules required to build primitive cell membranes were produced when hot, hydrogen-rich fluids were combined with carbon dioxide-rich water in the presence of iron-based minerals that were present on early Earth.
Dr Purvis added, “Central to life’s inception are cellular compartments, crucial for isolating internal chemistry from the external environment. These compartments were instrumental in fostering life-sustaining reactions by concentrating chemicals and facilitating energy production, potentially serving as the cornerstone of life’s earliest moments. The results suggest that the convergence of hydrogen-rich fluids from alkaline hydrothermal vents with bicarbonate-rich waters on iron-based minerals could have precipitated the rudimentary membranes of early cells at the very beginning of life. This process might have engendered a diversity of membrane types, some potentially serving as life’s cradle when life first started. Moreover, this transformative process might have contributed to the genesis of specific acids found in the elemental composition of meteorites.”
Principal Investigator Dr Jon Telling, Reader in Biogeochemistry, at the School of Natural Environmental Sciences, added, “We think that this research may provide the first step in how life originated on our planet. Research in our laboratory now continues determining the second key step; how these organic molecules which are initially ‘stuck’ to the mineral surfaces can lift off to form spherical membrane-bounded cell-like compartments; the first potential ‘protocells’ that went on to form the first cellular life.”
Interestingly, the scientists also suggest that membrane-forming processes like these might still be occurring in the oceans beneath the ice moons in our solar system today. This suggests that these far-off worlds may have different life origins.
17, Jan 2024
An artsy paradise – Art Aura at Infiniti Mall Malad
Infiniti Mall, the one stop shop for all Mumbaikars’ food, shopping and entertainment requirements, recently drew the curtains on Art Aura – An art exhibition hosted at the mall’s Malad location in association with L.S. Raheja School of Art.
Celebrating 70 glorious years of Arts & Crafts Education Society, the exhibition was inaugurated by eminent painter, cartoonist, caricaturist, and illustrator, Mr. Prabhakar Wairkar. The week-long art exhibition received overwhelming responses from visitors and charged the atmosphere with artistic energy and spirit. A variety of workshops on diverse realms of art such as block print, stencils, calligraphy, paper quilling and more were organized, for visitors to grasp the skill set for various styles of art.
The students, alumni and faculty members of L.S. Raheja School of Art was seen actively participating through the exhibition. An eye-catching lineup of artwork and paintings highlighting superior craftsmanship and expressiveness was another highlight which brought large crowds flocking to browse through the awe-inspiring display.
17, Jan 2024
Bengaluru GAFX with theme ‘Augmented Intelligence:
New Delhi, 17 January 2024: India’s flagship event in the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming & Comics (AVGC) sector, organised by the Ministry of ITBT, Karnataka, and ABAI; Bengaluru GAFX is all set to be held in the city from 29 – 31 January 2024 at the Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru.
With a focal theme of Augmented Intelligence: Powering AVGC, Bengaluru GAFX will bring together the Animation, Visual Effects, Games & Comics (AVGC) industry for a congregation of knowledge exchange like no other. The event will see the industry, academia, and government, come onto a common platform to deliberate the learnings, trends, challenges and future roadmap of their sector and continue Karnataka’s leadership in powering holistic growth & development of AVGC in India.
Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Govt. of Karnataka, expressed “As pioneers in the formulation of India’s 1st AVGC policy and initiative, Karnataka continues its leadership in this rapidly growing sector and has been the home to the world leaders in the AVGC space having left an indelible trail of success and awards on the world stage. It is our vision that Karnataka becomes the skilling epicentre for the global AVGC community as we provide a career pathway through the establishment of more incubators and accelerators in this sector. Bengaluru GAFX is a key convention for us to propagate our plans and schemes to promote our ever-expanding vision in this sector.”
The ABAI President & Country Head Technicolor India, Shri Biren Ghose said: “The sessions at Bengaluru GAFX 2024 shall celebrate the enormous successes of the past year and identify new vistas of growth and opportunity for the holistic growth & development of AVGC in India. Packed with multiple conference tracks, masterclasses, student competitions, e-Sports competition arena, B2B networking sessions, an exhibition track and much more, Bengaluru GAFX is a must-attend event for anyone involved with imagery, animation and simulation and with the new tech in the audio-visual space has applications in several new areas. Above all ABAI members have helped build an ecosystem taking India’s prowess in storytelling and entertainment to become a recognized “soft power” from India to the world”.
In the decade-plus of Bengaluru GAFX, several global giants including Walt Disney Animation, Nickelodeon, Paramount, DreamWorks Animation, Netflix, Rockstar Games, Electronic Arts, Ubisoft and many others have chosen Bangalore as their production and programming hub for their creative technology activities. The city has become home to the best talent in the country and has made significant contributions to bring an increasing global work share in the creation of games, movies, and episodic content for these media & entertainment majors among many others.
The event’s past editions have left an indelible impact on the industry, drawing over 4,500+ attendees, 120+ companies, and featuring a spectrum of activities from live conferences to student competitions. With the participation of 40+ colleges, the event featured 18 live conferences, 45 panel speakers, 10 virtual sessions, and 30 virtual speakers across the world, with renowned speakers from Epic Games, MPC, Gamitronics, Hombale Groups, The Mill, Technicolor Games, Rockstar Games, Electronic Arts, Netsport Media and many more.
As Bengaluru GAFX gears up for its latest edition, it aligns strategically with the launch of the Karnataka Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) Policy 3.0 (2023-28). Karnataka, renowned as India’s IT hub, is a dominant force in the AVGC-XR sector, commanding a robust 20% share of the Indian Media & Entertainment industry. The state boasts over 300 specialized AVGC studios and a workforce exceeding 15,000, providing a solid foundation for industry growth. Education is pivotal, with Karnataka housing 5 animation institutes, 3 visual effects institutes, and 12 gaming-focused institutes. Initiatives like Digital Art Centers in 27 colleges and an AVGC Finishing School further bolster the state’s commitment to nurturing talent.
This visionary policy endeavours to position Karnataka as a global innovation leader in AVGC-XR technologies, create a robust talent pool, generate 30,000 jobs, and foster sustainability within the AVGC industry. The policy’s strategic pillars, spanning skill development to global market access, resonate with the core discussions expected at Bengaluru GAFX, making the event pivotal for shaping the future of AVGC in Karnataka and beyond.
This edition of Bengaluru GAFX will witness a stellar lineup of speakers comprising industry veterans and thought leaders- including the winners of multiple Oscars, British Arrows, VES Awards, Cannes Golds and prestigious Indian awards.
17, Jan 2024
YES BANK marks historic milestone: Becomes first Indian Bank to conduct Export Finance Transaction
Mumbai, January 17, 2024: YES BANK becomes the first Indian Bank to execute an export finance transaction on the International Trade Financing Services Platform (ITFS) of RXIL Global IFSC Limited (RXIL), a leading cross-border fintech company registered under the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). This strategic partnership facilitates arranging credit for exporters & importers from both Indian and Global Institutions through Factoring, Forfaiting, and other trade financing services at competitive pricing with quick turnaround using a digital platform. This is the first transaction on the ITFS platform in collaboration with any bank in the country.
Talking about the partnership, Mr. Ajay Rajan, Country Head – Government, Multinational & International Business, Transaction Banking & Knowledge Units at YES BANK, said “We are delighted to be a part of this key strategic milestone. The collaboration between YES BANK and RXIL is a testament to the Bank’s commitment towards digitalisation and fostering cross border business. We strongly believe that this product is set to redefine the landscape of international trade finance and through this, the Bank reinforces its commitment to contribute and align with the Government’s aim to make India a global trade finance powerhouse.”
Mr. Ketan Gaikwad, Director of RXIL Global IFSC Ltd and MD & CEO of RXIL, said “RXIL is at the forefront of driving transformative change in the cross-border trade finance. The setting up of the ITFS in IFSC, GIFT City Gujarat is aimed at tapping global capital flows to meet India’s development needs and simultaneously provide a globally competitive financial platform for the full range of international financial services at the regional and global level. Our collaboration with YES BANK, coupled with digital banking capabilities, will play a pivotal role in achieving our mission of intensifying India’s Trade finance landscape by making competitive credit available to Exporters and Importers.”
This partnership signifies a new era in cross-border payments, providing a seamless and efficient platform supporting the growth and development of Indian and global enterprises in unleashing their full potential towards global trade and commerce under the envision of IFSCA.
17, Jan 2024
Meghalaya Games 2024 inaugurated with grandeur in Tura
National, January 17, 2024: In a splendid ceremony held at the PA Sangma Stadium, the Meghalaya Games 2024 was inaugurated today in Tura, Meghalaya, marking the commencement of the State’s marquee multisport event. Her Excellency, Smt Droupadi Murmu, Hon’ble President of India, graced the occasion with her presence and officially inaugurated the Games, emphasizing the importance of sports in fostering unity and excellence among the youth.
The event witnessed the esteemed presence of dignitaries including the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya Shri Phagu Chauhan, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Sports Minister Shri Shakliar Warjri, Shri Agatha K Sangma, Hon’ble Member of Parliament of Tura, and other prominent leaders of the state.
In her inaugural address, the Hon’ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu remarked, “Johar, Namaskar! I am delighted to address the inauguration ceremony of the multi-sport event, Meghalaya Games. I am happy to note that this Opening Ceremony of the Meghalaya Games is being held in the PA Sangma Football Stadium, country’s largest pre-engineered composite football stadium. I pay my homage to Late Shri PA Sangma, former Chief Minister of Meghalaya, and the former Speaker of Lok Sabha. Shri Sangma was the first tribal speaker of the Lok Sabha and also the first speaker from Northeast. There is an urgent need to support the talent from the tribal areas and groom them to become professional sportspersons. I am happy to note that the society of Northeast encourages women to play and join sports as a profession. I am confident that the Meghalaya Games will encourage athletes for excellence, promote competitiveness and create a vibrant sporting ecosystem.”
The President of India, then lauded the performers at the opening ceremony, stating, “My sincere and heartfelt wishes for the performers of Garo, Khasi, & Jaintia tribes, who braved the cold, and some stood bare bodied in their traditional attire for three to four hours waiting. It shows the great sportsman spirit.”
Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Conrad K Sangma, thanked the Hon’ble President for her esteemed presence. Hon’ble Chief Minister said, “It is my honour to welcome in our midst, the Smt Droupadi Murmu, Hon’ble President of India, on her maiden visit to Meghalaya. These games are not just an event but investment in the most important asset of the state of Meghalaya- the youth of Meghalaya. The returns on this investment will be there for the generations to come. Creating opportunities for them to excel in sports and other fields of human achievement is the single most priority of our government. We are in the process of building new sports infrastructures at every level. We have ensured that the youth channelise their potential in the right direction. The presence of Hon’ble President of India will remain as a historic moment in the history of this beautiful state of Meghalaya. I once again thank all the members across different committees who are working tirelessly to make the Meghalaya Games successful.”
Meghalaya Games, reinstated in 2021-22 after a hiatus of 16 years, are a testament to the government’s commitment to promoting competitive excellence in the state’s sporting ecosystem. A prime focus of the Meghalaya Games is to not only revive but also highlight the traditional sports of the state. Thereby, participants across all the districts of Meghalaya will take part in the three traditional games, namely Mawpoin (A Khasi traditional game, where two teams try to raise a pyramid of stones and get all the opposing team members ‘out’), Rah Mukhrah (A Jaintia traditional Game where the competitors carry a raw heavy rounded rock to the finishing line achieving the title of ‘KI MAR’) and Wa’pong Sika (A Garo traditional game, where two teams compete to push a bamboo pole towards the opponent’s goal post.).
Hon’ble Sports Minister of Meghalaya Shri Shakliar Warjri stated, “It is with profound pride and unwavering enthusiasm that I stand before you today, not only as your Sports Minister, but as a fellow enthusiast of the sporting spirit. I am delighted to witness the commencement of the 5th Meghalaya Games, a vibrant tapestry woven from the tireless efforts of departments, volunteers, and young athletes, is truly an inspiration. The emblem of this event, the Hill Mynah, aptly reflects the spirit of Meghalaya. Its wings, emblazoned with the Olympic flame and the colours of our diverse tribes, symbolize not only aspiration but also unity.”
The 5th Edition of the Meghalaya Games, to be held till January 20, 2024, in Tura, promises to be the largest gathering of athletes yet, with over 3000 participants competing across 22 sporting disciplines. This includes two demonstration sports, Sport Climbing, and Softball. The organisation of the inaugural ceremony of the PA Sangma Stadium also symbolizes the pace of development in the state, with this engineering marvel being completed at such a less time.
The Meghalaya Games 2024, with its grand inauguration, set the stage for a week-long celebration of athleticism, culture, and camaraderie, leaving an indelible mark on Meghalaya’s sporting legacy.
17, Jan 2024
VitrA Istanbul – A Celebration of East-West Collaboration in Bathroom Luxury
VitrA, the internationally acclaimed leader in bathroom solutions, proudly unveils its masterpiece, VitrA Istanbul, a collaboration with the visionary designer Ross Lovegrove. This collection stands as a testament to the convergence of East and West, drawing inspiration from the dynamic city of Istanbul and reflecting the diverse cultural essence that shapes VitrA’s legacy.
Renowned for his mastery of creating organic, sculptural shapes through cutting-edge technology and materials, Ross Lovegrove has once again pushed the boundaries of design with the VitrA Istanbul collection. The recipient of numerous prestigious awards, Lovegrove has seamlessly woven together tradition and innovation to craft a series that is not only aesthetically stunning but also pays homage to the vibrant spirit of Istanbul.
Istanbul, a city of great contrasts and diversity, serves as the muse for this exceptional collection. In the VitrA Istanbul series, each piece reflects the unique identity of the city, where East meets West and history meets modernity. The design captures the essence of Istanbul’s architectural heritage, creating a timeless and sophisticated bathroom experience that resonates with individuals seeking a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary style.
Inspired by the fluidity of water, Lovegrove brings a new perspective to his award-winning series with fresh forms and features. The VitrA Istanbul collection seamlessly integrates elements from nature, offering a unique and immersive experience in bathroom design. The result is a set of exquisite products that not only enhance functionality but also elevate the overall ambiance of any bathroom space.
VitrA Istanbul stands as a true masterpiece, a celebration of cultural diversity, and a symbol of the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation. This collection represents a union of artistry, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology, offering a luxurious and transformative experience for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Join us in embracing the fusion of East and West, tradition, and innovation as VitrA proudly presents the Istanbul collection, where bathroom design becomes a journey of inspiration and sophistication.
17, Jan 2024
Cisco and OECD Launch Pioneering Research Initiative on Digital Well-being
India, Jan 17, 2024 – Technology is transforming our lives, changing the way we learn, work, interact with others, and get access to all types of services. Depending on our ability to access technology and use it in the right way, technology can improve our sense of well-being and be a real driver of progress. Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO), a global technology leader committed to fostering an inclusive future for all, continues its efforts to address the digital divide through a new research collaboration with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
This collaboration aims to help promote a responsible use of technology as well as fairness, inclusion and equitable access in a global digital economy.
Igniting a Global Conversation
As digital transformation continues to reshape every aspect of our lives at an intensifying pace, Cisco and the OECD Centre on Well-being, Inclusion, Sustainability and Equal Opportunity (WISE) are joining forces to examine the complex nature of digital transformation and its role as both a catalyst for progress and a source of potential risks to well-being.
“The OECD has a long tradition of work supporting policy makers better understand the digital transformation and develop appropriate policies to help shape a positive digital future. Our initial report, ‘How’s Life in the Digital Age’, highlighted the benefits and challenges of digital transformation, from enhanced access and productivity to issues like the digital divide and personal security threats in people’s everyday life and workplace. Our partnership with Cisco helps us take the next step in broadening what we know about the interplay between technology and life to enrich our understanding of well-being in the digital realm,” said Romina Boarini, OECD WISE Centre Director.
This collaboration aims to create an interactive, dynamic, and engaging digital platform for sharing experiences to help develop a detailed picture of how digital technologies influence different aspects of our lives. Grounded in the OECD Well-being Framework, the platform will gather new statistics and people’s insights on digital well-being as a whole, including the impact of the digital divide and inequalities in the uptake and use of digital technologies.
Strategic Momentum from Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration Programs
Cisco’s involvement in the OECD WISE Centre initiative is an extension of its Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program, which has a long history of collaborating with governments, industry and academia to foster sustainable, secure and inclusive communities through over 1500 projects in 50 countries.
“We cannot close the digital divide on our own. Governments, industry, educational institutions, non-profits and community leaders must work together in new ways to prioritize our collective well-being for a healthy, prosperous and safe digital life. It’s no coincidence that the priorities and the OECD’s Well-being Framework resonate so profoundly. This partnership taps into Cisco and OECD’s collective expertise in understanding the risks and unlocking the value of digitization across verticals and industries to ultimately power safe and inclusive communities, and resilient economies,” said Guy Diedrich, Senior Vice President & Global Innovation Officer of Cisco.
Digital Access is No Longer a Privilege for Some but a Necessity for All
The partnership between Cisco and the OECD builds on existing research into digital well-being. It acknowledges that while digital technologies offer benefits like improved access to education and health information, they also pose risks. Notably, the digital divide, where those lacking digital literacy—a blend of technical, emotional, and social skills—fall behind, becoming vulnerable to mental health risks and safety concerns. Recognizing that broad internet access isn’t enough to participate in digital life, the new partnership seeks to rally citizens, businesses, policymakers and workers to develop a balanced approach that ensures technology improves well-being and mitigates potential risks.
A New Industry Study and Knowledge Hub
Cisco and the OECD will conduct research and create a global knowledge hub, capturing data and expanding knowledge on the influence of digital transformation on different aspects of people’s lives. This initiative marks a crucial step in understanding technology’s role across a broader definition of well-being that covers 11 key dimensions: education and skills, healthcare, jobs and earnings, income and wealth, subjective well-being, smart communities—work-life balance and social connections—environmental sustainability, critical infrastructure, cybersecurity, governance and civic engagement, and housing. The research aims to help users make informed decisions, empower individuals to navigate the digital landscape responsibly, and to promote a healthy relationship with emerging technology.
“While we continue to strive for full digital inclusion around the world, we cannot do so at any cost. It is our responsibility to keep well-being top of mind, and this partnership will help us connect with people around the world to learn about their experiences with digital technology—how it influences their social connections, their jobs and work-life balance, and their physical and mental health. Co-building a model and better understanding the role technology plays in everyday life is fundamental to our work at Cisco, and to pursuing our purpose to power an inclusive future for all,” said Fran Katsoudas, Executive Vice President & Chief People, Policy and Purpose Officer of Cisco.
The Year Ahead: Hub Launch and Well-being Forum
The partnership will launch its ‘Digital Well-being Hub’ in the second half of 2024. In November, Cisco will participate in the OECD’s World Forum on Well-being, which addresses the value of well-being approaches for improving knowledge, performance and cooperation across the public, private and civil sectors in a context of societal change.
Additional Resources:
• Cisco exceeds goal to positively impact one billion people
• CISCO ESG Reporting Hub and FY23 Purpose Report
• Cisco Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) Program
• Cisco Networking Academy
• OECD Going Digital Project
• OECD report “How’s Life in the Digital Age?”
17, Jan 2024
A Collaborative Initiative to Co-create Excellence: FIIB and SETU Launch PGD Course in Data Science & AI
New Delhi, January 17, 2024: In a groundbreaking move to meet the surging demand for skilled data scientists and AI specialists, the Fortune Institute of International Business (FIIB), in collaboration with SETU, successfully inaugurated and commenced its 1st cohort of the PGD Data Science & AI course on January 14, 2024. As businesses evolve in the digital age, the imperative for a program like SETU-FIIB’s PGD in Data Science & AI becomes evident. The collaboration between FIIB and SETU stems from a shared vision of bridging the skill gap and empowering learners to meet the escalating demand for data-intelligent professionals in the business world. The inaugural session, designed to help the audience explore opportunities and connect with industry experts, marks the beginning of a journey toward a rewarding career in the dynamic Data Science & AI field.
Presenting a powerhouse of industry and academic expertise, the inaugural session featured insights from eminent speakers. Their collective insight paved the way for a fulfilling journey ahead in data science and AI. In her own words, Ujjaini Mitra, Founder of SETU, shed light on the inspiration behind SETU’s name,” SETU bridges the skill gaps through industry-oriented hands-on experiential training by top industry experts and data practitioners.” She further stressed the meaningful collaboration with FIIB and the shared commitment to paving successful career paths for learners.
Prof. Radhika Shrivastava, Executive Director, FIIB, emphasizing the strength of the partnership, expressed, “SETU, with its deep understanding of the field, and FIIB, with three decades of academic experience crafting success for its learners, have worked together to curate a unique program. This program seamlessly combines academic rigor with real-world industry insights, promising a transformative journey for those aspiring to excel in the dynamic landscape of data science.”
Among other keynote addresses included Monish Mathpal – a seasoned Data Scientist; Gaurav Kejriwal – Vice President at EXL Analytics; Dr Subarna Roy – Associate partner, Quantum ambassador, IBM, and Biswajit Pal – Director – Data Engineering, Analytics & Insight at Tata CLiQ, who shared common insights with the batch emphasizing programming jargons, real-life case studies, the significance of mentors, and the perpetual importance of continuous learning in the dynamic field of data science and AI, urging learners to stay ahead. Following the insightful addresses, the batch interacted with course curators, instructors, and the course commander,” buddy”, ensuring learners receive guidance and support for their immersive journey.
Data Science And Artificial Intelligence: A wise choice for today’s learners!
As businesses enter the digital age, the demand for highly proficient data scientists and AI specialists has grown exponentially. With lucrative job prospects, cutting-edge salaries, and a competitive advantage in the job market, students equipped with these specialized skills find themselves at the forefront of the evolving industry.
Growing job market
With the increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making and Artificial Intelligence advancements, businesses realize the power of data in the industry. There is a considerable demand for professionals with a vital Data Science and Artificial Intelligence foundation.
Cutting-edge salaries
There is no doubt that Indian talent is one of the most sought-after. At the entry level, data scientists earn an estimated median salary of INR 16.44 lakhs per annum (LPA), which has grown by 42.8% in the past few years. The industry is growing at a CAGR of 25% and has a $16B valuation.
Leading the way
Companies need specialized data scientists and AI scientists, and six out of ten hiring managers need help finding quality talent. In today’s competitive job market, learning DS & AI skills will keep you ahead.
Future-proof your career
Build a recession-proof career with this course. As a result of data science and generative AI, industries are transitioning from uninformed professionals to those well-versed in these technologies.
Everything You Need To Know About PGD In DS & AI at SETU-FIIB
Whether you are a Thought Partner or a Functional Leader, this course is for you. The program teaches learners to critically evaluate and use data science and artificial intelligence in appropriate contexts, including processes, systems, algorithms, technologies, and insights. The course, available online or in a hybrid format, includes 1-0-1 mentorship, internships, and live industry projects, guaranteeing practical experience and a resume that attracts recruiters.
Key Program Highlights:
- Duration: 11-month course with optional 6-month AI specialization.
- Mode of Learning: Instructor-led online classes, accommodating flexible schedules.
- Internship: Guaranteed internships or live industry projects for practical experience.
- Certificate: 11 months DS certification with an optional specialization in advanced and generative AI.
- Data Lab: 50+ Real Business Case Solving using preoperatory Open-AI Integrated Data Environment on Cloud.
- Curriculum: Designed and assessed by top industries and academia to align with industry requirements.
- Fees: INR 250,000 for the 11-month PGD in Data Science and INR 150,000 for the 6-month AI specialization.
