18, Sep 2023
FICCI Homeland Security Conference 2023 discusses emerging challenges in safeguarding National Security
FICCI Homeland Security Conference 2023 discusses emerging challenges in safeguarding National Security from cyber threats and how AI & data analytics could be leveraged for internal security
New Delhi, September 15, 2023:
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has successfully organised its flagship Homeland Security Conference 2023 in association with Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF), today at the FICCI House in Delhi. This landmark event provided an invaluable platform for profound discussions and the exploration of cutting-edge advancements in internal security and policing strategies.
One of the highlights of the conference was the presentation of the prestigious FICCI SMART Policing Awards during the inaugural program. These awards celebrated the remarkable contributions of State Police Departments, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Central Police Organizations (CPOs) in the realm of homeland security and policing. They stand as a tribute to the dedication and innovation exhibited by these organizations in safeguarding our nation.
Mr. Prakash Singh, Former Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF) and Former Director General of Police (DGP) for Uttar Pradesh and Assam, emphasized the growing digitalization in India, which has increased vulnerability to cyber threats. He highlighted the potential and risks associated with AI, particularly in military applications. Despite a delayed start in technology adoption, India is striving to catch up and enhance law enforcement capabilities. Mr. Singh stressed the importance of strengthening armed forces and law enforcement to stay ahead of evolving threats posed by technology.
Ms. Manjari Jaruhar, Advisor to FICCI Committee on Private Security Industry and Former Spl DG, CISF, GOI, spoke about the journey of FICCI SMART Policing Awards and mentioned that in last seven years, more than 1100 nominations have been evaluated by the jury awarded 208 initiatives which encouraged LEAs to complete among for achieving higher level of expertise and proficiency. She specifically applauded police departments for their ‘Smile’ and ‘Muskaan’ initiatives, which have had a positive impact. She also commended the Delhi police for their effective management of the G20 event. Ms. Jaruhar acknowledged the continuous innovation and crime management efforts of the police, as well as initiatives by the NCB and CRF, contributing to the overall improvement of law enforcement in India.
Dr. Arvind Gupta, Director of the Vivekananda International Foundation and Former Deputy National Security Advisor, GoI, noted that technology and cybersecurity have become critical factors in recent years. He highlighted the transformative impact of technological developments and underscored technology as a game-changer in internal security domain. He stressed on the need for combining efforts to strengthen police forces in being a step ahead from negative forces.
Mr. Praveen Jaiswal, Co-Chair of FICCI Homeland Security and Director of Vehere, expressed immense satisfaction in successfully organizing the FICCI Homeland Security Conference, underscoring the commitment to facilitating essential dialogues on matters affecting the security of the nation. He said that it is very important for a nation like India, which is leading as a knowledge economy, to develop cutting-edge indigenous capabilities to minimise cyber susceptibility and enhance cyber defence resources. Indian industry is set to join hands with government agencies and LEAs on this front.
Dr. Gulshan Rai, Former National Cyber Security Coordinator, GoI, emphasized the transformation brought about by the rise of the IT sector in Homeland Security. He noted that AI has introduced a unique landscape characterized by efficient planning, suggesting that access to such technology could have potentially prevented events like the 26/11 attacks more effectively.
Technical sessions at the conference covered following areas:
Session 1: AI, ML, and Data Analytics for Internal Security.
Session 2: Cybercrime Management for Effective Law Enforcement.
Session 3: Emerging Technologies for Internal Security.
Session 4: Best Practices in SMART Policing.
The FICCI Homeland Security Conference 2023 was indeed an intellectually stimulating and informative event, offering a platform for the exchange of ideas and the exploration of innovative solutions for the complex challenges facing our nation’s security. FICCI extends its gratitude to all participants and stakeholders who contributed to making this conference a resounding success.
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- By Rabindra
17, Sep 2023
Bangalore Gears Up to Host the 1st Bangalore International Grand Masters Open Chess Tournament
Bengaluru 17 September 2023: – The city of Bangalore is set to witness an epic clash of chess titans as the Bangalore Urban District Chess Association (BUDCA), under the auspices of the Karnataka State Chess Association, All India Chess Federation, and International Chess Federation, proudly presents the 1st Bangalore International Grand Masters Open Chess Tournament. Supported by the Government of Karnataka, Ministry of Youth Empowerment & Sports, Sports Authority of India, Karnataka Olympic Association, Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, Govt. of India and backed by FIDE, this historic event is scheduled to take place tentatively at the prestigious Kanteevara Indoor Stadium from 18th to 26th January 2024.
This tournament promises to be a spectacular display of chess prowess, with 1500 players from India and 18 other countries, including 50 Grandmasters, which will be a Norm event for norm seekers descending upon Bangalore. This event is a testament to the rising interest and popularity of chess in India, which now boasts over 80 Grandmasters with high rankings.
Indian chess has evolved beyond conventional boundaries and has produced a new generation of players who are making waves on the international stage. Players like D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and Nihal Sarin are leading the charge, redefining Indian chess and competing at the highest level. The recent FIDE Chess World Cup showcased their extraordinary talent, with Praggnanandhaa even reaching the final.
Despite its growing popularity, chess in India faces a sponsorship challenge. It is high time for corporate houses to invest more in this sport. The All India Chess Federation (AICF) is playing a pivotal role in fostering the game’s growth and development. For tournament-related information, please visit www.budca64.com
Today, a press conference was held and was attended by a number of notable individuals including Smt. Shubha Hebbar, Secretary of BUDCA, Sowmya M U, President of BUDCA, Mr. D P Anantha, President of KSCA, Mr. Arvind Shastry, Secretary of KSCA, WIM Miss Isha Sharma, Sujatha Arjun, Joint Secretary of BUDCA, Vidya Gururaj, Treasurer of BUDCA, Bhargavi Bharath, Vice President of BUDCA, Nalini Kumara, Vice President of BUDCA, Jayanthi Hanumantha, Vice President of BUDCA, and Vasanth B H, Joint Secretary of KSCA. This gathering of esteemed individuals showcased the importance and relevance of the event.
17, Sep 2023
VST Industries in collaboration with Round Table India develops the infrastructure of 4 rural government schools
Hyderabad, September 17, 2023… Hyderabad-based VST Industries in collaboration with Round Table India’s local arm, Hyderabad Titans Round Table Charitable Trust, developed the infrastructure of 4 rural government schools at a cost of INR 2 crore in the city outskirts at Toopran and Brahmanpally in Medak District.
On the whole 10 classrooms and 3 toilet blocks were constructed across 4 schools. 60 dual school benches too were organised.
The details of the newly created facilities include 3 classroom blocks constructed at Tupran ZPHS Boys High School; Toilet Block at Tupran ZPHS Girls High School; ZPHS Brahmanpally School Block and MPPS Brahmanpally School Block. The Toilet blocks were also inaugurated at three schools.
Round Table India is a Young Men’s Organisation consisting of successful businessmen and professionals who believe in bringing about change and excellence in themselves and their community. It has built 7890 Classrooms in 3347 Projects impacting 8.67 million children across India.
All these facilities were just inaugurated by Aditya Deb Gooptu, MD of VST Industries Ltd, accompanied by Anish Gupta, Chief Financial Officer and Amit Arora Chief Human Resources Officer., Tablers Krishna Sudhir Dogiparthi, Vikrant Hanumantu and Ankit Sethi, disclosed in a press statement issued by Titans Round Table Charitable Trust in Hyderabad on Sunday.
Aditya Deb Gooptu says” Investing in education is an investment in the future of our community. Together, we can create a brighter future for our students and our community. We are happy to be partners and friends in the growth story of the poor children. Aditya Deb advised teachers to inculcate values in the students. He told students to be good human beings and proud citizens. Be proud Indians and Telanganites. These initiatives are set to positively impact the lives of 7,500 students over the course of the next quarter-century, he said
It is evident that VST’s commitment represents a substantial investment both in terms of financial support and sincere effort towards giving back to society, the VST official added.
The collaboration between VST and Round Table India serves as an exemplary model of how businesses can bring about meaningful change within their communities. This initiative holds the promise of a brighter future for countless students, equipping them with the tools to excel in their education and beyond.
14, Sep 2023
Bryan Strain’s New Book, Elery Is Not Himself, is a Heartfelt Story of a Little Elf
Mount Pleasant, UT, September 14, 2023 –Fulton Books author Bryan Strain, who was born and raised in the Southern San Joaquin Valley of California, has completed his most recent book, “Elery Is Not Himself”: a charming story of a young elf who longs to fly like his new friend, but soon discovers the importance of being true to oneself, and his very important role as an elf.
Growing up, stories were always a large part of author Bryan Strain’s childhood. His mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother all loved reading and telling stories, which became a regular occurrence and instilled in him a love for the power of stories. Now with a family of his own, Bryan was inspired to write his own set of stories for his children and others.
“Elery, a woodland elf, wishes he could be like his friend, Sammy,” writes Strain. “He thinks Sammy’s ability to fly makes him better and more important than a woodland elf. With the help of a wise friend, Elery discovers that you will never be more happy than when you are being yourself.”
14, Sep 2023
Star TV Mexico Chooses Minerva Video Platform to Power Differentiated Streaming Services
San Jose, CA, September 14, 2023 — Minerva Networks, a leading video entertainment solution provider announces today that Star TV Mexico has selected the Minerva 10 platform to power its Star TV streaming service. This collaboration is set to redefine the streaming experience for subscribers in Mexico by seamlessly integrating traditional linear and on-demand content with third-party direct-to-consumer applications.
Star TV Mexico has established itself as a premier entertainment provider with its innovative approach to marketing, pricing, and packaging. The company is committed to providing customers with a diverse range of choices that cater to their unique preferences and budgets. Star TV Mexico’s customer-centric philosophy will ensure that every subscriber can find the perfect combination of content bundles and streaming options to meet their entertainment needs.
Minerva Networks, a trusted and proven leader in the industry, offers a scalable platform that enables operators to deploy services swiftly and efficiently, ensuring a rapid time-to-market. With Minerva’s robust management tools, operators can easily craft sophisticated packaging and pricing options and adapt the user experience to highlight popular or trending content, or offer in-app upgrades. With the ability to ingest and manage third-party content, and to link out to apps, the Minerva platform allows Star TV to give users a seamless experience between traditional TV programs and third-party application providers such as HBO, Universal Plus, Paramount Plus, ESPN, and other popular content providers.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Minerva to elevate the entertainment experience for our valued subscribers,” said Monica Aguirre, Deputy CEO at Star Group. “This partnership will allow us to continue delivering exceptional content and convenience while expanding our offerings to cater to the diverse preferences of our audience. Minerva’s rapid time-to-market solutions, combined with their strong presence with multiple operators throughout LATAM, gives us the confidence we will be able to deliver on our vision for our customers.”
With Star TV Mexico’s commitment to innovation and Minerva Networks’ proven platform and extensive presence with multiple operators throughout LATAM, this partnership is poised to set a new standard for the streaming landscape in Mexico. Subscribers can expect to enjoy an enhanced and personalised entertainment experience that truly puts them in control.
14, Sep 2023
Rory Sparrow, Former NBA Player and Executive, Launches the Sparrow Foundation Institute
Montclair, NJ, September 14, 2023 –Rory Sparrow, known for his successful career as an NBA point guard and later as an executive with notable organizations, understands the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and community support. It is these values that have driven him to establish SFI, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization committed to driving change in low-income communities across the nation.
The primary mission of SFI is to create clean energy jobs, reduce energy costs, and promote a sustainable future while ensuring equitable access to these opportunities. The organization believes that clean energy and education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic circumstances. To achieve this mission, SFI will:
Implement Clean Energy Initiatives: SFI will develop and implement clean energy projects in low-income communities, including energy-efficient upgrades and renewable energy installations. These projects aim to reduce energy costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve overall community well-being.
Provide Workforce Development: SFI will offer workforce training programs to equip individuals with the skills needed to pursue careers in the clean energy sector. This initiative seeks to create job opportunities and promote economic growth within these communities.
Foster Community Engagement: SFI will actively engage with local communities through educational workshops, outreach events, and partnerships with community-based organizations. The organization believes that building awareness and support is essential for long-term success.
“I am deeply committed to making a positive impact in underserved communities and addressing the pressing challenges of our time,” said Rory Sparrow, Founder and CEO of the Sparrow Foundation Institute. “By combining clean energy solutions with educational and workforce opportunities, SFI aims to empower individuals and transform communities. We believe that together, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.”
Rory Sparrow’s vision for the Sparrow Foundation Institute is rooted in the belief that collective action and community engagement can drive meaningful change. He invites individuals, organizations, and partners to join SFI in its mission to make clean energy and education accessible to those who need it most.
14, Sep 2023
Hibu Enhances Its Digital Marketing Platform with Acquisition of Signpost’s Marketing Technology Platform
Cedar Rapids, IA, September 14, 2023 — Hibu Inc. (“Hibu”), the leading provider of technology-enabled digital marketing solutions to small and medium-sized businesses (“SMBs”) across the United States, today announced its acquisition of the marketing technology platform of Signpost, Inc. (“Signpost”).
Signpost’s marketing technology platform, which includes Marketing Automation, Messaging Hub, and Instant Response solutions, allows SMBs to design and deploy optimized text and email marketing campaigns, instantly respond to leads via automated text messages, manage communications across multiple platforms from an integrated messaging hub, and collect customer feedback and reviews. This one-stop marketing and communication tool empowers clients to efficiently acquire, retain and nurture relationships with prospective and existing customers and to increase conversions from digital marketing campaigns.
“We are thrilled to add Signpost’s marketing automation capabilities to our existing portfolio of proprietary technology, further enhancing our ability to deliver exceptional results to our SMB customers, and to welcome Signpost employees to the Hibu team. For the last two years, we have worked closely with the Signpost team to leverage the technology as part of our fast-growing Hibu Assistant offering, which enables our SMB clients to efficiently track customer interactions and deploy automated email and text marketing campaigns to prospective and existing customers.
“The acquisition will bring the full capabilities of Signpost’s advanced technology to Hibu Assistant and to the entire Hibu digital marketing platform, accelerating our product development roadmap and our plans to bring new features to market. We are also excited to welcome Signpost’s Marketing Platform customers to Hibu and to extend our full digital marketing solution to these local businesses,” stated Kevin Jasper, Chief Executive Officer of Hibu.
14, Sep 2023
Skyward Credit Union Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Lisa Reed, VP Independence Branch
Wichita, KS, September 14, 2023 — Skyward Credit Union is proud to announce the 25th anniversary for Lisa Reed, Vice President of the Independence Branch. Skyward congratulates her on her accomplishments and dedication in supporting the community of Independence and surrounding area.
Lisa has contributed to the credit union’s expansion and growth, which began as Cessna Employees Credit Union in 1941. She began her career as a teller and has advanced to her current position. She truly exhibits the credit union mission of providing exceptional products and services while exceeding the expectations of our members. In addition to supporting Textron Aviation, Lisa has represented Skyward in the community by participating in community events and supporting local charities. She has served as an avid volunteer at Independence High School, she graduated from Leadership Independence, and currently serves on their board. She led the merger with Universal Credit Union in Independence to expand Skyward’s services. Currently she is overseeing the completion of a new Skyward branch on West Main, which broke ground in March of this year and is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2024.
“After starting the branch in Independence, I moved to Wichita and Lisa was the perfect candidate to take my place. She has done an excellent job of leading our operations in Independence for 19 years and I have full faith in her ability to continue to lead our efforts in the community and surrounding areas. We are lucky to have her as part of our leadership team,” said Kevin Wilmoth, President.
The company congratulates Lisa Reed for being an outstanding member of their management team and look forward to her continued success.
14, Sep 2023
Brown & Haley Candy Co. Celebrates 100 Years of ALMOND ROCA
Tacoma, WA, September 14, 2023 –Brown & Haley Candy Co. Celebrates 100 Years of ALMOND ROCA® with Grand Unveiling of Iconic Neon Clock Sign.
Brown & Haley Candy is thrilled to announce the Celebration of the 100th Birthday of its most famous brand, ALMOND ROCA®. This momentous occasion will take place on October 10, 2023, at 11 a.m., right outside the historic Brown & Haley Candy factory located in Tacoma, Washington.
As part of the Centennial Celebration, Anne Haley, the current Chairman (and granddaughter of founder JC Haley), will unveil the newly rebuilt 9-foot by 9-foot historical neon clock sign. This iconic ALMOND ROCA® clock has been an integral part of both Brown & Haley’s history and the Tacoma community for over 80 years. It was temporarily taken down earlier this year as part of a building upgrade, and its return symbolizes a powerful reconnection to the brand’s rich heritage.
“We are immensely proud to have reached this milestone in ALMOND ROCA’s history,” said John Melin, President & CEO at Brown & Haley Candy. “The ALMOND ROCA brand has delighted the taste buds of generations and become a symbol of confectionery excellence worldwide. Our historic neon sign serves as a beacon of ALMOND ROCA’s enduring commitment to quality and tradition.”
Members of the media, the local community, and ALMOND ROCA enthusiasts are invited to join Brown & Haley for this joyous occasion. Witness the unveiling of the sign, experience the rich history of ALMOND ROCA®, and celebrate a century of sweet success with Brown & Haley.
Event Details:
Date: October 10, 2023
Time: 10:00 a.m. PST
Location: Brown & Haley Candy Co. Located in Tacoma, WA
Website: www.brown-haley.com Ceremony to start at 11a.m. PST.
This celebration promises to be a memorable event, and Brown & Haley encourages you to share the story of ALMOND ROCA® with your audience. For media inquiries or to RSVP, please contact Kathi Rennaker at (253) 620-3000 or krennaker@brown-haley.com, subject ALMOND ROCA Celebration.
14, Sep 2023
Brown Toy Box and Microsoft Announce Transformational Collaboration
Atlanta, GA, September 14, 2023 — Equipping Black Nonprofits to Inspire Youth: Brown Toy Box and Microsoft Announces Transformational Collaboration
Brown Toy Box, an innovative educational toy company dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), proudly announces its groundbreaking collaboration with Microsoft Nonprofit Tech Acceleration. This transformative collaboration merges tactile toys with innovative learning technology, empowering, Black-led nonprofits to inspire youth who are underrepresented in both toys and games, through engaging online educational games.
Tactile + Technology = Transformation
The collaboration’s motto, “Tactile Plus Technology Equals Transformation,” encapsulates its visionary approach to play-based learning and STEAM education. By harnessing the power of hands-on play-based learning and blending it with state-of-the-art technology, Brown Toy Box and Microsoft are set to revolutionize how children from diverse backgrounds engage with STEAM subjects.
Empowering Black Nonprofits to Inspire Youth to “Discover It, Dream It, Do It!”
The core mission of this collaboration is to equip Black-led nonprofits serving youth with innovative tools to ignite curiosity and exploration in STEAM fields. Microsoft will leverage its expertise to bring Brown Toy Box’s renowned educational STEAM kits to life in the digital sphere. These kits, renowned for their tactile engagement, will be transformed into captivating online educational games, expanding their reach and impact.
“Through this collaboration once the technology is complete, Brown Toy Box Foundation will work side by side with Microsoft to then deploy the games to organizations that would typically not have access. We’re breaking down barriers and expanding access to quality STEAM education in a fun and representative way,” says Terri-Nichelle Bradley, Founder and CEO of Brown Toy Box and chair of Brown Toy Box Foundation. “The fusion of our tactile kits with advanced technology will drive a transformative learning experience, fostering confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong passion for learning.”
Darrell Booker, Corporate Affairs Specialist with Microsoft, emphasizes, “Our collaboration with Brown Toy Box underscores our commitment to diversity, equity, and innovation. By translating their tactile STEAM kits into interactive digital games, we’re creating an inclusive space for young minds to explore the realms of technology and AI while equipping the Black-led nonprofits that we serve to add an important engagement tool to their offering.”
Introducing Youth to Technology and AI Through Engaging Games
Microsoft’s role will be to develop a series of interactive educational games, leveraging platforms such as MakeCode and others. These games will serve as a gateway to introduce children to the exciting world of technology, game creation, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) while making STEAM education accessible, engaging, and relevant.
A Vision of Inclusivity, Empowerment, and Skill Building
The collaboration between Brown Toy Box and Microsoft exemplifies a joint vision of inclusivity, empowerment, and innovation. As STEAM education continues to evolve, this collaboration will empower young individuals from underrepresented communities to become not only consumers but creators and leaders in the world of technology.
