Author: Rabindra

ThrustMIT Team Recognized as India’s Young Innovators at Spaceport America Cup 2024

Manipal, September 25th, 2024: Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) is proud to announce that its student-led team, ThrustMIT, has been recognized as “India’s Young Innovators, Who Outshined at the Spaceport America Cup 2024” by MyGov India. The prestigious accolade is a testament to the team’s hard work, innovation, and dedication in advancing space exploration technologies.

The Spaceport America Cup, one of the largest intercollegiate rocket engineering competitions globally, attracts teams from all over the world, challenging them to design, build, and launch rockets. ThrustMIT’s outstanding performance at the event has earned them national recognition on the MyGov India platform, showcasing their significant contribution to the field of aerospace.

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor of MAHE, Manipal, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments, said, “ThrustMIT’s success at the Spaceport America Cup is a reflection of their relentless dedication to innovation and their passion for pushing the boundaries of technology. We are extremely proud of our students for representing India on the global stage and setting a high benchmark for future innovators”.

Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor – Technology & Science, MAHE, Manipal also commended the team’s achievements, stating: “The recognition by MyGov India highlights the remarkable talent and perseverance of our students. ThrustMIT’s journey exemplifies the spirit of MIT – fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative innovation. We are confident that these young innovators will continue to soar to greater heights”.

ThrustMIT’s recognition has been published on the official MyGov India website, where their inspiring journey is highlighted as an example of how young minds are contributing to India’s leadership in science and technology. Their achievement not only brings pride to MIT but also underscores the institute’s commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing future leaders in the aerospace industry.

Himachal Pradesh Delegation Showcases ALfA Pedagogy Success at Global Learning Lab Conclave

Lucknow, 24 September 2024: Day 2 of the First Global Learning Lab Conclave, held as part of the 14th Ed Leadership event, saw a 57-member delegation from Himachal Pradesh, led by Shri Rohit Thakur, Hon. Education Minister. Himachal Pradesh was one of the first states to implement the ALfA (Accelerated Learning for All) pedagogy, and the delegation shared insights from their one-year journey with the program. The implementation of the 45-day quick-learning initiative has produced remarkable results, with numeracy proficiency among students rising from 6% to 62%.

Speaking at the event, Shri Rohit Thakur stated, “Himachal Pradesh has been promoting education with around 18% of the state’s budget allocated to the educational ministry. Being part of the First Global Learning Lab, our team is keen to understand new learning methodologies, and I feel it is an honest effort to bring the world together to promote education.”

Hosted by City Montessori School, Lucknow, and spearheaded by Dr. Bharti Gandhi and Dr. Sunita Gandhi, the three-day conclave focuses on strengthening teacher training and fostering collaborations for ALfA pedagogy. Representatives from government schools in Uttar Pradesh, including Lucknow, Unnao, and Barabanki, also shared their experiences with ALfA, noting significant improvements in students’ literacy and engagement.

Shri G.K. Mishra, ARP Hilauli Block, shared, “The use of ALfA in 155 schools has transformed the learning environment, making education more fun and interactive, leading to greater interest from both students and their parents.”

Dr. Sunita Gandhi, Founder of DEVI Sansthan, added, “Global Learning Lab Conclave is a collaborative effort to support the NIPUN initiative. In Uttar Pradesh, we have started with 4 districts with nearly 100% results. Adopting the new teaching methods will help students get on the fast track to being educated and clearing the NIPUN tests later in the year.”

With a mission to drive India’s journey towards the NIPUN Bharat mission for universal foundational literacy and numeracy by 2026-27, the conclave brings together educators from 15 Indian states and 7 countries, making it a collaborative platform for transformative education.

In parallel, the Synergy Summit 3.0, running alongside the conclave, features leadership from prominent organizations such as the Tata Steel Foundation, Adani Foundation, Hindalco Aditya Birla Foundation, Kotak Mahindra Foundation, and HCL Tech. Over 4,000 participants will engage in discussions focused on accelerating progress toward the NIPUN Bharat Mission.

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India conducted an impactful road safety awareness campaign in Sukna, West Bengal

Sukna, 25th September 2024: Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) emphasizes the paramount importance of individual safety. Committed to spreading road safety awareness to millions, HMSI regularly organizes Road Safety Awareness Campaigns across India. The latest campaign in the town of Sukna made a significant impact, engaging over 1,400 school students and staff members of Army Public School.

HMSI firmly believes that educating young minds on road safety can lead to a significant reduction in road accidents in the future. By targeting children and youth, HMSI aims to instill responsible road usage habits that will last a lifetime. The company organizes interactive and engaging road safety awareness programs at frequent intervals to reach a wide range of individuals in schools, colleges, government, and non-government institutions.

The campaign featured a variety of interactive activities tailored to enhance the participants’ understanding of safe road practices. These activities educated participants on theoretical safety riding session, danger prediction training, road safety quizzes, helmet awareness programs, and Riding Trainer sessions.

HMSI appreciates the support given by Army Public School in making this initiative a success. The collaboration underscores the shared commitment to creating safer roads and reducing traffic accidents.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s CSR commitment towards Road Safety:

In April 2021, Honda announced its goal of achieving zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles worldwide by 2050. As part of its broader CSR strategy, HMSI aligns with the company’s global vision for zero traffic fatalities by 2050 and the Government of India’s goal of halving road fatalities by 2030.

One critical aspect of achieving this goal is developing a positive mindset towards road safety in our children by the year 2030 and continuing to educate them thereafter. Road safety education at schools and colleges is not only to create awareness but to introduce a safety culture in young minds and transform them to be the road safety ambassadors. It empowers future generations to become responsible and significantly contribute to a safer society.

HMSI wants to be a company that Society wants to exist and is strongly focusing on spreading Road safety awareness to all sections of society with unique ideas catering to each segment from school kids to corporates and society at large.

HMSI’s set of skilled safety instructors conduct daily programs at our 10 adopted traffic training parks (TTP) across India and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC) to make road safety education accessible to every part of society, and the initiative has already reached over 75 lac Indians. HMSI’s National Road Safety Awareness program made learning fun yet scientific through:

SCIENTIFICALLY DEVISED LEARNING MODULE: Honda’s skilled instructors set the foundation with theory sessions on road signs & markings, driver’s duties on road, riding gear & posture explanation and safe riding etiquettes.

1. PRACTICAL LEARNING: A special training activity on Honda’s virtual riding simulator was executed for all to experience over 100 possible dangers on road before actual riding.

2. INTERACTIVE SESSION: Participants were given danger prediction training known as Kiken Yosoku Training (KYT) which helps in enhancing rider/driver’s sensitivity to danger and ensures safe driving behaviour on roads.

3. EXISTING DRIVERS HONING RIDING SKILLS: Students & school staff members who are already existing riders tested & honed their riding skills through slow riding activities and riding on narrow planks.

IGPL presents Telangana Golconda Masters powered by DSR Builders & Developers returns for 10th edition

Hyderabad, September 25, 2024: The Hyderabad Golf Association (HGA) and the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), the official sanctioning body of professional golf in India, today announced the IGPL presents Telangana Golconda Masters 2024 powered by DSR Builders & Developers which will be held at the Hyderabad Golf Club (HGC) from September 26 – 29, 2024. The prize purse for the event is INR 1 crore. The Pro-Am event will be held on September 25.

The tournament which will witness participation by 126 golfers (123 professionals and three amateurs) is supported by Presenting Partner IGPL (Indian Golf Premier League), Associate Partner Telangana Tourism, Powered By Partner DSR Builders & Developers and Host Venue Hyderabad Golf Association. The Government of Telangana has supported the event from its inception in 2015.

The event is also supported by PGTI’s Tour Partners TATA Steel, Rolex, Amrutanjan Electro+, Nissan Motors India Pvt. Ltd., Bisleri, Golf Plus Monthly, Athletic Drive and Golf Design India.

The top Indian professionals in the fray include TATA Steel PGTI Ranking leader Veer Ahlawat, Manu Gandas, Udayan Mane, Shaurya Binu and Karan Pratap Singh, to name a few.

The foreign challenge will be led by Czech Republic’s Stepan Danek, Bangladeshis Jamal Hossain, Badal Hossain, Md Akbar Hossain, Sri Lankans N Thangaraja, K Prabagaran, Andorra’s Kevin Esteve Rigaill, Nepal’s Subash Tamang, Canada’s Sukhraj Singh Gill, South Korea’s Si In Kim, Japan’s Makoto Iwasaki and American Dominic Piccirillo.

The local challenge will be led by Hyderabad-based players including professionals Mohd Azhar, Milind Soni and Hardik S Chawda as well as amateurs Sankeerth Nidadavolu, Vilok Gadwal and Adit Ahluwalia.

Shri Jupally Krishna Rao, Hon’ble Minister for Prohibition & Excise; Tourism & Culture and Archaeology, Government of Telangana, said, “We are delighted to be associated with the Telangana Golconda Masters which provides us a great platform to promote Golf Tourism in Telangana. The tournament goes a long way in promoting the magnificent HGA golf course as a world-class golfing destination in a week coinciding with World Tourism Day. We wish the players and the organisers all the best.”

Mr. Manav Jaini, Director, Bharath Golf Pvt. Ltd., said, “The IGPL is proud to be the Presenting Partner for the Telangana Golconda Masters, one of PGTI’s marquee events in southern India over the past decade. This association provides us a great opportunity to showcase our commitment to growing the game in every sphere. We are a league which will strive towards setting new benchmarks in competitive golf by bringing together the leading professional and amateur golfers of the country.”

Mr. D Abhishek, Managing Partner, DSR Builders & Developers, said, “In a move that highlights our commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, DSR Builders & Developers is pleased to be part of this prestigious golf event, where precision and excellence take centre stage. This event mirrors our dedication to quality, much like golf demands meticulous skill and a pursuit of perfection. At DSR Builders & Developers, we are passionate about creating homes that reflect these values. We don’t just build structures; we craft lifestyles that inspire and elevate. We wish the players all the best.”

Mr. B V K Raju, President, Hyderabad Golf Association, said, “The Hyderabad Golf Association is happy to host the 10th edition of Telangana Golconda Masters Golf tournament. Initiated in 2015, the prestigious tournament has grown to be an important part of the PGTI circuit, attracting top professional golfers from India and neighboring countries. With the historic setting and excellent course conditions, we are sure to see a very exciting competition. We wish all the players the very best.”

Mr. Uttam Singh Mundy, CEO, PGTI, said, “The Telangana Golconda Masters, now in its 10th edition, is today one of the most important stops on the PGTI in southern India. We thank IGPL, Telangana Tourism, DSR Builders & Developers and Hyderabad Golf Association for supporting the event. The HGA has regularly produced thrilling finishes and with the strong field and brilliant course conditions this year, we can expect another pulsating contest. The tournament serves as an ideal platform to showcase the potential of Golf Tourism in Telangana.”

Promoted by the Telangana Tourism Development Corporation and the Hyderabad Golf Association (HGA), the 212-acre expanse provides an 18-hole, 6017-yard, par-70 layout that also features a floodlit driving range, a pro shop, a golf fitting shop, and training & practice facilities. A modern clubhouse with dining hall, lounge, open deck, change rooms, and trained staff is also in place.

The ‘Best Tourism Friendly Golf Course’ award bestowed on it by National Tourism, reiterates the pleasant experience that HGA provides. The Hyderabad Golf Club offers 18 challenging holes that bring players up close with the heritage and beauty of the Deccan hinterland – Golconda Fort and Naya Quila in particular.

DUDigital Global Renews Visa Processing Services with Embassy of Thailand

New Delhi, 25th September 2024: DUDigital Global, a leading provider of specialized services in visa processing, immigration, and global company formation, today announced the renewal of its association with the Royal Thai Embassy for visa processing services across India. Under the arrangement, DU Digital Global will continue managing all visa application processes for Thailand from India, catering to travellers across visa categories.

The company will operate visa application centres under the jurisdiction of the Royal Thai Embassy in Delhi and the Royal Thai Consulate General offices in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai.

“The renewal of our Thai visa processing services is a testimony of our dedication in enhancing customer experience. This partnership, along with our collaboration with numerous other nations, solidifies our position as industry leaders in visa processing services. This continued partnership not only validates our services to date, but also challenges us to set new standards moving forward.”, said Manoj Dharmani, CEO, DUDigital Global.

This renewal underscores the strong relationship between DUDigital Global and the Thai Embassy, as well as the company’s commitment to providing high-quality visa processing services and improving customer experience for Indian travelers to Thailand. With over 35 centres across the world, the company has processed over 1.5 million visa applications till date. Additionally, with its subsidiary DuVerify, the company is supporting the Embassies of Georgia and South Korea in India in their e-visa processing.

SAFE Annual Convention 2024 Unites Industry and Government Leaders for Safer Roads and Mobility

Mumbai, 25th September 2024: The Society for Automotive Fitness & Environment (SAFE), an initiative of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), organized its 25th SAFE Annual Convention 2024 under the Safe Journey  initiative in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This year, the convention was focused on the theme “United Efforts for Road Safety: Our Roads, Our Responsibility,” the convention brought together distinguished dignitaries to discuss key strategies for promoting safe driving habits, improving road discipline and enhancing overall vehicle safety.

The 25th SAFE Annual Convention was graced by the presence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri Siddaramaiah, as the Chief Guest, along with the Guest of Honour, Shri D K Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. The conclave also saw participation from Guest of Honour, Dr Ramalinga Reddy, Hon’ble Transport Minister of Karnataka and Dr N V Prasad, IAS – Secretary of Transport, Govt of Karnataka, along with several other distinguished dignitaries. Industry experts from various corporations and OEMs shared their valuable insights, further enhancing the significance of the discussions and initiatives presented at the convention.

Welcoming the dignitaries and auto industry experts to the inaugural ceremony of the SAFE Annual Convention 2024, Mr Prashant K. Banerjee, Executive Director, SIAM, apprised the audience about the SIAM’s SAFE initiative and highlighted SIAM’s commitment and Karnataka government efforts in making roads safer in Karnataka and in India.

Chief Guest at the convention, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri Siddaramaiah, said, “Karnataka is prioritizing road safety with significant investments in infrastructure and technology. We are committed to reducing road traffic fatalities through enhanced traffic management systems in cities like Bengaluru and Mysuru, and rigorous enforcement of traffic laws. Our educational initiatives are embedding road safety awareness from an early age, ensuring a safer tomorrow. Furthermore, our move towards sustainable mobility with the acquisition of 5000 electric buses and the launch of the Shakti Scheme highlights our resolve to lead the nation in safe and green transportation.”

Addressing the inaugural session, Guest of Honour Shri D K Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, said, “Karnataka, with a burgeoning population of 7 crore people and 3 crore vehicles, exemplifies a technological leap by incorporating technology to improve road safety particularly in Bangalore —our technological capital— where nearly two-thirds of the population grapples with vehicular congestion. Recognizing traffic and road safety as national concerns, we commend SIAM’s contributions and urge further industry collaboration to harness Bangalore’s tech prowess. By integrating AI into our police and transport operations, we aim to elevate our standards to international levels, enhancing daily life and ensuring the safety of our citizens.”

Guest of Honour, Dr Ramalinga Reddy, Hon’ble Transport Minister, Govt. of Karnataka, said, “As the leader in road safety initiatives, Karnataka is steadfastly improving infrastructure, enhancing enforcement, and upgrading emergency care to significantly reduce road fatalities and injuries. We are at the forefront of technological advancements in the transportation sector. Our comprehensive schemes and future plans, including the procurement of 5,000 electric buses, highlights our commitment to sustainable mobility. We aim to establish Bengaluru as the first net-zero city in India, setting a benchmark in environmental responsibility and urban transportation.”

The SIAM SAFE Context Paper, “Analysing India’s Imperatives for Road Safety,” was unveiled by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri Siddaramaiah. on this occasion. The SIAM SAFE Context paper offers critical insights about India’s preparedness for safer roads.

The Hon’ble Chief Minister also launched several new road safety initiatives, including the SIAM and Transport Department Karnataka Road Safety Education Slogan Competition, a free eye check-up for 15,000 BMTC drivers in association with the Eicher Foundation and BMTC, and a helmet awareness drive in collaboration with Bengaluru Traffic Police and ICICI Lombard to promote road safety.

During the conclave, 10 individuals from KSRTC, BMTC, Education Department and Bengaluru Traffic Police were awarded for their outstanding contributions towards promoting road safety.

During the inaugural session, Mr Sushant Naik, President,SAFE and Global Head of Government & Public Affairs at Tata Motors Ltd, said, “Addressing road safety is urgent. We must reduce road traffic deaths by 50% by 2030, a goal set by the United Nations. The path to safer roads involves a comprehensive approach—Education, Engineering, Enforcement, and Emergency Care. We can learn from successful models like Sweden’s Vision Zero and Norway’s traffic management strategies, which have significantly lowered road fatalities. By integrating advancements like ADAS and enforcing stricter laws, we can achieve similar success.”

Concluding the inaugural session, Mr Alok Jaitley, Vice President, SAFE and EVP, Maruti Suzuki India, also shared his insights and perspectives on road safety in India.

The first plenary session, ” Leadership in Road Safety: Innovations and Initiatives”, was chaired and moderated by Mr Naveen Soni, Toyota Kirloskar Motor. Guest of Honour Dr N V Prasad, IAS, Secretary of Transport, Govt. of Karnataka, shared his perspectives on Education in Road Safety. He emphasised on the importance of the technology advancements with an example of how HSRP being used in tandem with ANPR can improve the response time of any accident significantly.

The session also included thematic presentations by Mr Ashim Sharma, Senior Partner, Nomura Research Institute Consulting, on ‘Road Safety – India’s journey so far and the way forward’; Dr Reji Mathai, Director, ARAI, on the “Role of Testing Agencies in Indian Road Safety”; Mr Prabhu Nagraj, Operating Officer, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, on “Best Practices in Road Safety by HMSI”; Ms Pamela Tikku, VP – Auto Group Public Affairs, Mahindra & Mahindra, on “CSR Initiatives in Road Safety”; Mr Akhilesh Srivastava, President, ITS India Forum and Former NHAI on “Reimagining Road Safety- a paradigm shift with road safety 2.0″ and Mr. Nazeem Khan, Head – ICLM, Motor TP Claims & Litigation.

The second plenary session, “Emergency Response and Data-Driven Enforcement in Road Safety,” was chaired and moderated by Mr M S Anand Kumar, Senior General Manager – R&D (Homologation), TVS Motor Company. Guest of Honour Mr Harsh Gupta, IAS, Principal Secretary, Health, Govt of Karnataka, shared their perspectives on Road Safety.

The session also included presentations by Mr Devayan Dey, Partner, PwC India, on ‘Emergency Response and Data-Driven Enforcement in Road Safety’; Mr Kuldeep Kumar Jain, IPS, DCP (East), Bangalore Police, Govt of Karnataka ; Ms Shruti Adhav, Founder, Value Life Foundation, on “CPR Training: Saving Lives in Emergencies”; Mr Somenath Nag, Sr VP, Calsoft Digital Engg, on “Technology and Innovations in Road Safety” and Mr Roshan Jose, SAVE Life Foundation on “Leveraging Data-Driven Insights from Community Inputs to Enhance Road Safety”.

The third plenary session, titled “Technology and Innovation in Road Safety,” was moderated by Mr Alok Jaitley, Vice President, SAFE and EVP, Maruti Suzuki India. Special Guest Padma Shri Dr Narain Karthikeyan, India’s first Formula 1 Racing Driver, Guest of Honour Mr Rama Chandran, IAS, Managing Director, Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) and Smt Deepa Cholan, IAS, Commissioner, Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT), Karnataka, shared their perspectives on technology and innovation in road safety.

The session featured presentations from Mr Vishal Gupta, Executive Director, Deloitte; Mr Sunil Patil, Director, Engineering (ADAS & Safety Electronics), ZF Group Region India; Prof. Anindya Deb, CPDM, IISc, on “Vehicle Engineering and Light-weighting for Occupant Safety”; Ms Roli Agarwal, Head (Strategic Partnership), Google on “Role of AI in Road Safety” and Mr Kartick V Nagpal, President, Rosmerta Technologies on “Technological innovations in Road Safety – Challenges and Way Forward”.

SIAM has been driving the transition towards sustainable transportation through initiatives like the electrification of mobility, promoting ethanol in transport, improving recycling, bringing safety through Safe Journey, developing gas-based mobility infrastructure, and fostering the hydrogen fuel ecosystem.

SIAM and its members have been actively collaborating with governments, corporations, and key stakeholders to promote safer mobility nationwide, in line with SIAM’s objective of Building the Nation Responsibly.

IIM Bangalore hosted 15th edition of EPGP Business Conclave 2024

25 September, 2024, Bengaluru: IIM Bangalore recently hosted the 15th edition of the annual EPGP Business Conclave, a flagship event of the Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management (EPGP). This year’s conclave was themed on, ‘Developing Future Leaders: Skills Beyond Technology’, and delved into the essential skills that transcend technology, exploring how leaders can harness the power of human potential to drive sustainable growth and innovation.

 The EPGP Business Conclave, serves as a distinguished platform for profound discussions on contemporary topics and emerging trends. The event features CXOs, strategists, technology evangelists, thought leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals who come together to analyze real-world business scenarios, deliberate on their social impact and stimulate meaningful discussions.

 During his welcome address Prof. Rishikesha T Krishnan, Director, IIM Bangalore said “Companies that have enduring success do not depend on technology alone – other skills and knowledge are essential as well. During a review meet with external CEOs, the must-have elements of an MBA programme curriculum listed by them included digital, data and ESG, other than traditional components such as communication, leadership, problem solving, ethics and integrity. In that way, the essence of EPGP, a well-rounded programme, is similar to the theme of today’s conclave”

 The inaugural session also included an address by Prof. Amar Sapra, Chairperson, Executive Post Graduate Programme in Management and faculty of the Production & Operations Management area of IIMB. He said, “The Indian government has taken up several initiatives so that the country can evolve into a manufacturing powerhouse, along with the promise in the areas of science and engineering. The priority of the Indian corporate sector should be to become a world-class factory of the world in the long run.

 Open networks shaping future commerce
The keynote address on, ‘The Role of Open Networks in Shaping Future Commerce and the Journey of ONDC’ was delivered by Harishankar Krishnan, Chief Transformation Officer, ONDC. “The implications of the open network lie in democratization, digitizing the undigitized and innovation which will unleash opportunities for start-ups. For business and technology leaders, it can drive value leveraging the ecosystem, lower barriers to entry, lead to business model innovation and boost digital talent and leadership”, said Mr. Krishnan on the promising pathway of India’s digital future.

 Panel Discussion 1 – The first panel discussion on, ‘Building Future-Ready Organizations: Developing Leadership Skills That Go Beyond Technology to Foster Sustainable Growth and Adaptability’, featuring Shweta Mohanty, Head of HR, SAP in India, Balachander Lakshminarayan, VP of Marketing, Datawrkz, and Sarika Pradhan, VP of Human Resources, Asia Pacific Global Delivery Centers of Excellence, CGI, was moderated by Prof. Debolina Dutta, Organizational Behavior & Human Resources Management area of IIMB.

 Energy transition
The panel discussion was followed by a talk on ‘Strategic Leadership during Energy Transition’ by Subramanian Chidambaran, Chief Strategy Officer, Cummins India.

 Founder’s mentality
Shyam Unnikrishnan, Partner, Bain & Company, led a discussion on, ‘Founder’s Mentality and Disruptive Innovation’. He said, “Most successful companies share three cultural characteristics – insurgent mindset, frontline obsession and owner’s mindset. Insurgency should never take a backseat.

 Panel Discussion 2 – The discussion on, ‘Leadership in the Age of Disruption: Navigating Change wih Data Analytics and AI’ was led by Sai Krishnan Mohan, VP – Data & Analytics, Bajaj Auto, Laxminarayanan G, Global Head – Automation & Transformation, Cyient, and Shriram Vasudevan, Technical Innovator, Intel. The panel was moderated by Prof. Shankar Venkatagiri, Chairperson and faculty of the Information Systems area of IIMB.

 To lead a Global Capability Center
‘Understanding the GCC (Global Capability Centers) Juggernaut: What Does it Take to Lead One?’ was discussed by Dr. Anilesh Seth, Independent Captives Consultant and Cofounder, GigVistas.

India’s Biopharma Sector Emerges as Key Driver of the Bioeconomy: Cactus Communications and Gubbi Labs Report

Mumbai, 25th September 2024: A new insightful report on the “Biopharma Industry in India” has been published as a series of articles on Biospectrum India. Authored by Dr. H.S. Sudhira, Director of Gubbi Labs, in association with Cactus Communications, a leading science communication and technology company, the report offers a comprehensive analysis of India’s Biopharma sector, showcasing its exponential growth and emergence as a major global player in bioeconomy. The report highlights India’s contributions to affordable healthcare solutions, biosimilars, and vaccines while identifying key opportunities for innovation, international collaboration, and investment in the biopharma sector.

The biopharma sector has emerged as a critical component of the country’s bioeconomy, contributing to 49% of India’s biotechnology output. The report delves into the sector’s consistent double-digit growth, supported by government initiatives, skilled talent, and cutting-edge research, which together position India as a major player in global healthcare innovation.

Key highlights from the report:

● The Biologics CDMO Market size is expected to grow from $13.58 billion in 2023 to $24.77 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 12.78% during the forecast period (2023-2028).

● There has been a significant rise in R&D investments, with Indian companies spending approximately 8-10% of their revenue on research, particularly in drug discovery and development.

● The biopharma segment develops products such as therapeutics, vaccines, and diagnostics. Of these, diagnostics alone account for 52% ($20.4 billion) share of the total biopharma market, while the therapeutics segment accounts for 26% ($10.3 billion). The vaccine segment (excluding COVID-19 vaccines) accounts for the rest (22%, at $8.7 billion).

● India remains the largest vaccine producer only second to the EU, with annual production capacities of around 14.5 million kgs—comparable with of the EU’s annual production capacities, of around 15.5 million kgs.

Dr. H. S. Sudhira, Director of Gubbi Labs and lead author of the report, remarked, “India’s biopharma sector is uniquely positioned to address global health challenges, from pandemic preparedness to developing advanced biotherapeutics and vaccines. The growth observed is driven by a combination of evolving regulatory landscapes and robust international partnerships, showcasing India’s significant role in shaping global healthcare innovation.”

Dr. Smita Jain, Director, Partnerships (India), Cactus Communications, commented, “As we look to the future, the country’s strides in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development are setting new benchmarks for accessibility and affordability in healthcare. This transformation highlights India’s growing influence on the global stage, shaping the future of health and wellness for generations to come.”

S. Balasubramanya, Ph.D., General Manager – Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises – ABLE, said, “India’s biopharma industry is rapidly emerging as a global powerhouse, driving nearly half of the nation’s bioeconomy . With robust R&D investments and government support now coming from the new BioE3 policy, the sector is poised for remarkable growth, solidifying its position in the global bioeconomy. The report by Gubbi Labs in collaboration with Cactus Communications, essentially captures the same and highlights India’s pivotal role in affordable healthcare, biosimilars, and vaccines.”

Cactus Communications remains committed to fostering advancements in science and technology, driving impactful solutions that address global challenges. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, CACTUS continues to support the growth of the biopharma industry and other critical sectors, helping shape a healthier and more sustainable future.

Protecting Your Gut Health: Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies for Bowel Cancer

By-Dr.Santosh Chikkreddi, Senior Surgical Oncologist, HCG NMR Cancer Center, Hubli

Our lifestyle choices and surroundings play a significant role in shaping our overall health, and sometimes, even the most mundane habits can have a profound impact on our wellbeing. The food we eat, the exercise we take, and the environments we inhabit can all contribute to an increased risk of developing bowel cancer, one of the most common and deadly forms of cancer worldwide. As we navigate our daily lives, it’s essential to be aware of the subtle yet critical factors that can predispose us to this disease. It is important to understand the intricate relationships between our lifestyle, genetics, and environment, we can take proactive steps towards prevention, early detection, and effective management of bowel cancer, empowering ourselves to live healthier, happier lives.

 1.What is Bowel Cancer?
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the large bowel (colon and rectum). It is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with a significant impact on healthcare systems and individuals. Understanding the risk factors and causes of bowel cancer is crucial for early detection, prevention, and effective treatment.

 a) Age: Risk Factor
Age is a significant risk factor for bowel cancer, with most cases occurring in people over 50 years old. The risk increases with age, and individuals over 60 are more likely to develop the disease. This highlights the importance of regular screenings and check-ups, especially for those in this age group.

 b) Family History and Genetics
A family history of bowel cancer or certain genetic conditions, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome, can significantly increase the risk of developing the disease. If you have a family history, it’s essential to discuss your risk with your doctor and consider genetic testing.

 c) Lifestyle Factors: Diet and Exercise
A diet high in red and processed meat, low in fiber, and lacking essential nutrients can contribute to the development of bowel cancer. A sedentary lifestyle also increases the risk. Conversely, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, combined with regular exercise, can help reduce the risk.

 2. Other Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), type 2 diabetes, and obesity, can increase the risk of bowel cancer. Managing these conditions through lifestyle changes and medical treatment can help mitigate this risk.

 3. Causes of Bowel Cancer
Bowel cancer is often caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, leading to the growth of polyps in the bowel. If left undetected, these polyps can become cancerous. Understanding the causes and risk factors can help individuals take proactive steps towards prevention and early detection.

 4.Symptoms
Symptoms of bowel cancer include blood in stool, changes in bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation), abdominal pain or cramping, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, and loss of appetite. Other signs may include narrow stools, mucus in stool, and feeling of incomplete bowel movements. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.

 5. Environmental and Occupational Exposures
Exposure to certain environmental and occupational factors, such as asbestos, radiation, and pesticides, has been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer. Awareness of these risks and taking necessary precautions can help minimize exposure

 Bowel cancer is a complex disease with multiple risk factors and causes. By understanding these factors, individuals can take control of their health and reduce their risk. Regular screenings, a balanced lifestyle, and awareness of family history and genetic predispositions are crucial for preventing and detecting bowel cancer in its early stages.

34 LPU faculty members recognised among the world’s top 2% scientists by Stanford University 2024

New Delhi, 25th September 2024: Lovely Professional University (LPU) continues to make strides in the global academic arena, as 34 of its faculty members have been recognised among the world’s top 2% scientists by Stanford University, USA. This number shows a significant increase from last year’s 22 faculty members. 2 faculty members got the 2nd rank in India among AI and Image Processing & Food Processing fields. This prestigious recognition, featured in a global list compiled by Stanford, highlights the most influential researchers worldwide, acknowledging their contributions to the field of research.

Expressing immense gratitude for this achievement of faculty members, LPU’s Founder Chancellor & Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal, congratulated all faculty members who have been featured as top scientists in their respective fields worldwide. Mr. Mittal emphasised that this achievement highlights the exceptional research work being carried out by the institution, reflecting its commitment to impactful research.

The recognized faculty members have excelled in varied domains such as medicinal and biomolecular chemistry, artificial intelligence and image processing, pharmacology and pharmacy, materials science, and others.

The honoured faculty members represent LPU’s commitment to advancing scientific innovation across 17 diverse research fields. In the area of Materials Science, three faculty members have been recognised for their contributions to understanding and developing new materials. With the rising significance of artificial intelligence and image processing, two LPU researchers were commended for their work in these cutting-edge fields.

The recognition also extends to the field of Energy, with one faculty member making important advancements in sustainable energy solutions. Two researchers were acknowledged for their work in environmental sciences, contributing to the global efforts in climate change and sustainability. In Networking and Telecommunications, four LPU faculty members were included for their expertise in revolutionising communication technologies.

Pharmacology and Pharmacy, vital to healthcare and drug development, saw four LPU’s scientists among the recognized. The fields of medicinal and biomolecular chemistry and biotechnology, three and one, respectively were also well represented with contributions.

Additionally, recognition in areas such as Applied Physics (04), General Physics (03), and Mechanical Engineering & Transport (02), Industrial Engineering and Automation (1), Organic Chemistry (1), Optoelectronics and Photonics (1), Neurology & Neurosurgery (1) and Agronomy & Agriculture (1) reflect LPU’s strengths in engineering, pharmacy, sciences, and environments. This recognition underscores LPU’s commitment to fostering a strong research culture and contributing significantly to global scientific advancements.

The subject-specific bibliometric evaluation was undertaken by a team comprising scientists from Stanford University and Elsevier BV, a prominent scientific publisher. This comprehensive list, meticulously developed through the analysis of scientific research metrics like the H-index, citations, and other performance indicators, celebrates the excellence of scientists who have made noteworthy strides in their respective domains.