Category Archives: News

Rapido’s Bold 500-City Expansion Set to Reshape Urban Mobility Landscape

Bengaluru, January 20, 2025: India’s urban transportation landscape is set for a significant transformation as leading urban mobility platform, Rapido, announces its ambitious 500-city expansion plan at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, starting from January 17th. The company’s presence at the expo will showcase its commitment to connecting communities and fostering economic empowerment through accessible and convenient transportation solutions.

Building on its current operations in over 120 cities and having facilitated over 200 crore rides, the expansion will roll out in phases. Beginning in February with Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Rajasthan, the initiative will progressively extend affordable mobility options to new states, including Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and others. This strategic approach aims to cater to the diverse transportation needs of a rapidly developing Bharat. Captains on the platform have earned a total of ₹15,111 crore since inception, and the platform facilitates 3.6 million rides daily.

“The Bharat Mobility Expo provides a vital platform to discuss the future of transportation in India,” said Pavan Guntupalli, Co-founder, Rapido. “We’re excited to share our vision and demonstrate how technology can create positive social and economic impact. With over 1.3 crore Captains earning over 15,000 crore rupees on the platform, our expansion to 500 cities is a testament to our commitment to empowering individuals and building a more connected India. We look forward to engaging with stakeholders at the expo and collaborating to shape a more accessible and sustainable future for urban mobility.”

The Bharat Mobility Expo serves as a critical forum for industry leaders, policymakers, and the public to discuss and shape the future of transportation. The company’s participation underscores its dedication to innovation, accessibility, and its role in building a more mobile and connected India. Visitors to the stall can explore initiatives across our Bike, Auto, and Cab services. The company’s focus on safety and customer experience will also be highlighted. These initiatives showcase the platform’s contribution to creating over 1.8 million earning opportunities within the gig economy. The company’s innovative technology, focused on enhancing customer experience and safety, will also be a key highlight.

NSDC Honored for Building a Workplace Culture of Excellence and Growth

Mumbai, January 20, 2025- National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has been recognized with the Great Place to Work® Certification for second time in a row, affirming its commitment to fostering an exceptional workplace culture for its employees. Awarded in the Non-Profit and Charity category, this certification reflects NSDC’s continuous dedication to employee satisfaction and organizational excellence.

Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC and Managing Director of NSDC International, stated, “This is a testament to NSDC’s core values of integrity, inclusion, innovation and impact, which makes it an inspiration for every member of NSDC to excel. We are committed to nurturing an environment that promotes learning, innovation, and equitable opportunities for all.” He also mentioned that NSDC celebrates its identity as a diverse and inclusive community, emphasizing the importance of mutual trust and respect throughout the organisation, which is essential for a productive and rewarding work environment.

The Great Place to Work® is a global leader in workplace culture, helping organizations create a consistently and overwhelmingly positive employee experience. In India, the Great Place to Work® collaborates with over 1400 organizations annually, spanning 22 diverse industries. According to its research, exemplary workplaces share attributes such as effective leadership, a consistently positive employee experience, and a commitment to sustainable financial performance.

NSDC has significantly contributed to India’s skilling ecosystem by facilitating the implementation of several successful upskilling initiatives and vocational institutions which have elevated the benchmarks of skilling in India. With more than 40,000 training centres across 750 districts, NSDC successfully placed 9.4 million candidates, trained over 40.19 million candidates, including 18 million women and 12.9 million individuals from urban and rural India. One of the NSDC’s most transformative initiatives has been the launch of the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) which provides a comprehensive platform integrating skilling, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities.

This latest accolade reinforces NSDC’s position as a leader in skill development in the industry and workplace culture in India, paving the way for impactful changes at both grassroots levels and within the professional landscape.

AarogyaRise: Signature Global’s New Health Access on Wheels Targets Rural and Underprivileged Areas

Gurugram, January 20, 2025 – Signature Global Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Signature Global (India) Limited, has launched AarogyaRise, a mobile health clinic initiative designed to deliver quality healthcare services to rural and underprivileged areas in Gurugram.

At a ceremony held at Signature Towers, Sector 30, Gurugram, the leadership team of Signature Global, in collaboration with Artemis Hospital, flagged off the AarogyaRise buses.

Following the inauguration, two medical buses were proceeded to the Signature Global Superbia located at sector 95 and Signature Global City 93 sites, where health check-up camps were organized, prioritizing the well-being of labourers.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Pradeep Aggarwal, Founder & Chairman of Signature Global, said: “At Signature Global, we envision a world where access to essential services like healthcare, education, and skill development is not a privilege but a fundamental right for all. AarogyaRise is a significant step in this direction, bringing quality healthcare directly to those who need it most in rural and underserved areas. This initiative goes beyond treatment, focusing on awareness, prevention, and early detection to empower communities to lead healthier lives.

Our commitment to societal upliftment is also reflected in other initiatives of the Signature Global Foundation, such as Project Paathshala, which has positively impacted over 28,000 children across 52 schools, with a mission to bring smiles to one lakh kids, and Jagruk Beti Swasth Beti, which has reached over 4,000 girls to promote health and hygiene awareness. AarogyaRise is a natural extension of our efforts to foster sustainable, inclusive growth and build a stronger, healthier society for generations to come.”

AarogyaRise is a transformative “Health Access on Wheels” initiative aimed at addressing healthcare challenges in rural areas. The fully equipped mobile clinic provides a wide range of essential medical services, including OPD consultations, gynecological care, general physician support, dental and eye care, and a mobile ICU for emergencies.

The clinic will travel to remote villages, conducting medical camps to offer free consultations, health check-ups, and preventive care services. By prioritizing health awareness, disease prevention, and early detection, AarogyaRise is revolutionizing healthcare delivery for underserved populations, reaffirming Signature Global Foundation’s commitment to driving positive societal change.

NIIT Launches ‘Career Edge Scholarship’ to Empower Final-Year Engineering Students for Thriving Tech Careers

New Delhi, January 18, 2025: NIIT Limited (Ticker Symbol: NIITLTD), a leading skills & talent development corporation, today launched the ‘Career Edge Scholarship’ to empower BE/BTech students in their final semester. This initiative addresses the pressing need for employability by offering merit-based scholarships to enrol in NIIT’s flagship Full-Stack Development with GenAI Honours Program.

The scholarship equips final-year engineering students with in-demand skills in Full-Stack software engineering integrated with GenAI, bridging the gap between campus and corporate life while addressing placement uncertainties.

The total fee of the Program is Rs. 1,10,000 + GST. Eligible students need to pay only Rs. 10,000 + GST as admission fee and may receive scholarships upto 100% based on their academic performance and outcome of personal interaction with them. Registrations are open from January 14 to January 31, 2025, with programs commencing by or before February 28, 2025. Scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to BE/BTech students with a minimum of 50% aggregate in 10th and 12th Standard, a cumulative score of 50% or above in the first seven semesters, and no backlogs.

This outcome-driven program builds holistic skills combining technical, engineering, and professional expertise. Through 100+ challenges, 10 projects, and drill-based practice with over 10,000 lines of code, learners gain hands-on experience in coding, object-oriented programming, databases, and full-stack development.

Starting with fundamentals, the program progresses to advanced topics like building end-to-end web applications using Java, React, RESTful APIs, and Spring Boot. Learners also leverage GenAI tools to streamline workflows, generate test cases, and optimize solutions. Spanning 34 weeks, the program prepares students for in-demand roles such as Software Engineer, Front-end Developer, Back-end Developer, and Full-Stack Developer.

Students who enrol in this program acquire the same skills that top employers look to build in their entry-level hires, ensuring they are day-one ready.

Pankaj Jathar, CEO, NIIT Limited, commented “At NIIT, we recognize the challenges faced by final-year engineering students as they prepare to enter the workforce. The Career Edge Scholarship for NIIT’s flagship Full-Stack Development with GenAI Honours Program is our way of bridging the gap between their aspirations and opportunities. With a stellar record of placing 100% eligible learners since its inception, this program equips students with the multi-skills that the organizations actively seek, preparing them for diverse roles in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.”

Industry 5.0 to Focus on Personalised Manufacturing with Advanced Technologies for Customised Offerings

Kolkata, January 17, 2025: Industry 5.0, which is focused on integration of advanced technologies such as AI, AR, big data analytics into processes, will help make manufacturing industry more “human-centric, sustainable and resilient”.

“By utilising big data generated by IoT and utilising AI-based software for improving productivity, the manufacturing industry can offer differentiated and customised offering to consumers. Integrating green technology and optimising AI is the way forward. This era promises to be an exciting future of growth, innovation and global competitiveness for MSMEs,” Mr Sanjeev Rastogi, Director – Production, Braithwaite & Co, said. He was speaking at the 3rd Edition of Manufacturing and MSME Conclave Industry 5.0 – The Future of Manufacturing & MSMEs, organised by Assocham here on Friday.

SIDBI has been working in a focused way to address the challenges being faced by MSMEs. “We have been working on green financing for nearly 10 years by adopting a cluster approach. We have been conducting energy audits in specific clusters and based on energy audits we have been able to identify where carbon emissions can be reduced. We have been financing those requirements of MSMEs to help them fine tune their production, machineries and technology etc,” Mr Pramod Kumar Vijayvargiya, General Manager, SIDBI said.

Mr Subrata Roy, Chief Operating Officer, Vesuvius India Ltd, said, by leveraging machines to focus on conducting monotonous tasks, the human capital can shift their focus on value-added activities such as product design, quality control and innovation. This will not only improve operational efficiency but also help enhance the overall work experience making jobs more engaging and fulfilling.

“One of the key things about Industry 5.0 is the emphasis on personalised manufacturing. Consumers today demand products tailored to their specific needs and preferences. Industry 5.0 makes this possible by combining AI, ML and human experience and manufacturers can produce customised products with same efficiency and cost effectiveness as done in mass production. Using these, MSMEs can gain a competitive edge by offering bespoke, high-quality products that meet the unique needs of individual customers,” he said.

According to Mr Sudipta Mukherjee, MD, Texmaco Rail & Engineering Ltd, Industry 5.0 is more about adopting an informed, aligned and recognised approach as things in insolation might not have the multiplier effect which an inclusive approach might bring.

A majority of Indian MSMEs are currently operating at Industry 2.0 or Industry 3.0 levels, characterized by mechanization and basic automation. These levels are far behind the advanced integration and automation seen in Industry 4.0 and the emerging trends of Industry 5.0, which emphasize human-centric solutions and sustainable practices, Mr Akhilesh Jain, Chairman, MSME Sub Council, Assocham Eastern Region Development Council, said.

“Compared to other major economies like Germany, USA, Japan and South Korea, where more than 40% MSMEs have already integrated IoT and automation technologies into their operations, only 15% Indian MSMEs have achieved this feat. One of the main challenges is that most of them are not fully aware of the benefits of upgrading their back-end processes. It has been found that almost 60% of MSMEs have cited lack of awareness as a major barrier to adopting new technologies. In this context, today’s program would be highly beneficial for MSMEs willing to enhance their efficiency and productivity. Other challenges related to lack of adequate Government funding, skilled workforce, technological infrastructure, etc., need to be addressed as well,” Mr Jain pointed out.

Sikandar Kher explores the darkest complexities of human nature as Akram Khan in Amazon MX Player’s Chidiya Udd

Mumbai, 18 January 2025: Amazon MX Player – Amazon’s free video streaming service is all set to present their latest crime drama – Chidiya Udd. The show explores the unknown territories of the underworld of Mumbai, inspired by Aabid Surti’s novel Cages. This intense series exposes the raw, unbridled truth of the city’s underbelly, where the lines between crime and survival are blurred. Starring Jackie Shroff, Bhoomika Meena, and Sikandar Kher, with masterminds in the director’s chair of Ravi Jadhav and producers Harman Baweja and Vicky Bahri, Chidiya Udd promises to be a heart-stopping journey through the darkest alleys of the city.

Known to the world for his scintillating performances Sikandar Kher steps in, depicting the character of Akram Khan, son of Qadir Khan, the be-feared gangster of Mumbai’s underground. Fired up by raging ambition and an insatiable hunger for power, he is hell-bent on taking the throne of Kamathipura, but his ascent involves some very treacherous inner demons and explosive conflicts. As he walks through the perilous landscape of his complicated relationship with his father, Qadir Khan, Akram must face the dark depths of his own psyche, where insecurity, vulnerability, and seething resentment against Babu Rao simmer just below the surface. With every step, Akram’s quest for validation and supremacy pushes him further down a hazardous path, so much so that he tests his limit of will, loyalty, and his own soul.

Reflecting on his character and the series, Sikandar Kher shared, “Akram Khan is a man deeply shaped by living in the shadow of his father, which has left him deeply insecure, as he’s never truly received the kind of love or softness a son craves. That insecurity fuels aggression and jealousy, but beneath it all, there are moments of vulnerability, which add depth to his persona. Bringing Akram to life was an intense and rewarding experience, thanks to our incredible director, Ravi Jadhav, who made every moment on set a joy. I was fortunate to share the screen with incredible co-actors—Jaggu Dada, whose wisdom and warmth feel like a tight hug; Mayur, a powerhouse of talent; Bhoomika, who is pure fire on set; and Mitaji, whose effortless brilliance elevated every scene.”

Media & Entertainment Industry Vertical Contributes Rs. 3 Lakh Crore to the Economy: Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secy, I&B

New Delhi, January 18, 2025 – “The media and entertainment industrial vertical is close to about three lakh crores of an economy that we have, growing at a rate which is much faster than the rate at which our economy is growing,” said Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, during an address on “Reimagining Media: How Digital Innovation is Changing the Game” at the 19th India Digital Summit (IDS), today.

 The two-day IDS 2025 is being organized by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, and is Supported by Digital India, Skill India and Make in India.

Shri Jaju also highlighted the government’s initiatives, including the formation of the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies and the “Create in India Challenge”, which is being organised as part of the Waves Summit upcoming in February 2025. Speaking about the “confluence and inter intersection between art and technology” he spoke at length about the Create in India Challenge Season 1. “These challenges are across various verticals in the media and entertainment landscape. Many of these challenges are also global challenges. All these challenges are being shepherded by the industry and I’m very happy to tell you that we’ve been getting very good participation from the creators across the length and breadth of our country,” Shri Jaju added.

  Shri Jaju discussed the need for regulatory reforms, including light-touch regulations and amendments to the Cinematographic Act to control piracy and promote accessibility.

 Regarding the industry’s challenges, Shri Jaju acknowledged weak news and misinformation. He commented, “There are challenges regarding AI-driven recommendations, which can also inadvertently lead to algorithmic biases. We are also aware of the inequitable returns that many creators face from digital platforms. There are copyright concerns and content quality that impact children, especially the content that promotes disharmony and sexual violence.” However, Shri Jaju expressed confidence that the industry can overcome these challenges and become a global leader in media and entertainment.

IDS 2025, held from January 16-17, recognises digital excellence and outstanding marketing achievements annually across various business and technology sectors. This year’s theme is Bharat’s Digital Path—Empowering Future Innovators.

 IDS is being Powered by NPCI. Amazon.in and MPL are Platinum partners. Among Gold Partners are PhonePe; Australia Trade and Investment Commission; IDA Ireland; Paytm ads, Jagran New Media and Exotel. Route Mobile is the Cloud Communications Partner. Silver Partners include AWS, ShareChat, Shiprocket; Times Internet, and TV9 Network.

Glaucoma Awareness Month: A Closer Look at the Silent Thief of Sight

By-Dr. Ashwin Santosh Shetty, Consultant – Ophthalmology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore

January is recognized as Glaucoma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to spreading knowledge about this sight-threatening disease. Often called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making awareness and early detection crucial. This article explores its causes, prevention, diagnostic methods, notable cases, and how the healthcare industry is addressing this condition.

Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma encompasses a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, which is vital for good vision. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible blindness. According to the World Health Organization, it is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting millions of people.

Causes of Glaucoma
While the exact cause of glaucoma remains unknown, several risk factors contribute to its development:
1. Elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP): The primary risk factor is increased pressure in the eye due to improper drainage of aqueous humor.
2. Age: People over the age of 60 are at a higher risk.
3. Family History: Genetics play a significant role; a family history of glaucoma increases one’s likelihood of developing the disease.
4. Ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at higher risk for certain types of glaucoma.
5. Existing Health Conditions: Diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases can contribute to the development of glaucoma.
6. Prolonged Use of Steroids: Extended use of corticosteroids can also increase the risk.

 Prevention: A Proactive Approach
While glaucoma cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:
• Regular Eye Exams: Comprehensive eye exams, especially for individuals over 40, can help detect glaucoma early.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking can reduce the risk.
• Eye Protection: Wearing protective eyewear during activities that could result in eye injury is essential.
• Managing Other Health Conditions: Keeping diabetes and blood pressure under control can mitigate risks.

 Diagnosis: Spotting the Silent Thief
Timely diagnosis is critical to preventing vision loss. Common diagnostic tests include:
1. Tonometry: Measures intraocular pressure.
2. Optic Nerve Examination: Assesses the optic nerve for signs of damage.
3. Visual Field Test: Detects peripheral vision loss.
4. Pachymetry: Measures corneal thickness, which can influence IOP readings.
5. Gonioscopy: Examines the drainage angle in the eye to identify blockages.

 Industry Cases and Innovations
Several prominent cases and advancements highlight the importance of addressing glaucoma:
• Celebrity Advocacy: Public figures like Bono have raised awareness about living with glaucoma.
• Technological Innovations: The introduction of advanced diagnostic tools like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has revolutionized early detection.
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): New surgical techniques provide safer and more effective treatment options.
• Awareness Campaigns: Organizations like the Glaucoma Research Foundation actively promote education and resources.

Glaucoma Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the importance of eye health. By spreading awareness, encouraging regular screenings, and supporting advancements in research and treatment, we can collectively combat this silent thief of sight. Remember, early detection is key—an eye exam today could save your vision tomorrow.

STAGE OTT Hosts Rohidi Music Festival in Sheo, Barmer: A Grand Tribute to Rajasthan’s Musical Heritage

Jan 17, 2025 Sheo | Barmer, India

STAGE OTT hosted the Rohidi Music Festival, a grand celebration of Rajasthan’s cultural and musical heritage, in the picturesque desert town of Sheo, Barmer. This landmark event brought together over 400 Manganiyar artists who showcased the timeless rhythms, soulful vocals, and traditional instruments that define the region’s rich folk traditions. The festival began with a powerful rendition of the National Anthem, followed by the stirring performance of Dharti Dhora Ri, setting the tone for an evening filled with artistry and cultural pride.

Among the highlights were spellbinding performances by Virasat Lok Sansthan, the Joga Dhol Party from Bisala, and Akala Dariya, who mesmerized the audience with the iconic track “Ghani Re Ghani Khamba” from the movie Padmavat. The event also featured an extraordinary lineup of celebrated artists, including Padma Shri awardees Ustad Sakar Khan’s family and Ustad Lakha Khan, alongside other luminaries such as Shakur Khan, Jasu Khan Bissu, Jasu Khana Meer, Hakam Khan Nimbla, Moti Khan, and R Khan. Their stellar performances not only captivated the audience but also honored the Manganiyar community’s centuries-old legacy.

The Manganiyars have long been the storytellers of Rajasthan, weaving music into every aspect of life, from births and weddings to festivals and harvest celebrations. Their music, which is passed down through generations, reflects a deep connection to the cultural and spiritual fabric of the region. The Rohidi Music Festival beautifully celebrated this rich tradition, emphasizing how music in the Manganiyar community transcends mere entertainment to become an integral part of their daily lives and rituals.

Mr. Vinay Singhal, CEO & Co-Founder, STAGE OTT and Mr. Parveen Singhal, CCO & Co-Founder, STAGE OTT, reflected on the success of the festival, stating, “The Rohidi Music Festival was an opportunity to showcase the vibrant soul of western Rajasthan. By bringing together esteemed artists, we aimed to present the heart of Rajasthan’s folklore to a larger audience. This festival was not only a celebration of music but also a step toward empowering local communities and preserving their cultural treasures.” The event served as a platform to uplift Manganiyar artists, creating economic opportunities while fostering pride among performers and attendees alike.

The Rohidi Music Festival was a historic cultural gathering, blending tradition with a vision for progress. STAGE OTT demonstrated its unwavering commitment to preserving Rajasthan’s cultural legacy while supporting its local artists. The event set a benchmark for future initiatives aimed at celebrating and promoting the rich artistic heritage of the region.

Ninad Pardeshi to Launch ELM Art Gallery – An Exclusive Art Gallery Redefining Luxury

Jan 17, 2025 Mumbai, India

Renowned architect and designer Ninad Pardeshi, the visionary force behind ELM Designs, is proud to announce the launch of ELM Art Gallery, an exclusive art gallery dedicated to luxury and heritage. Under its brand Moksha Sutra, the gallery will feature an exclusive collection of art masterpieces dedicated to timeless elegance and cultural sophistication. Located in the heart of Mumbai, ELM Art Gallery promises to be a sanctuary for art connoisseurs and collectors.

Mr. Ninad Pardeshi, ELM Designs

As the Principal Architect and CEO of ELM Designs, Ninad Pardeshi has built a legacy of creating transformative spaces that marry tradition with contemporary luxury. With over two decades of experience and a philosophy rooted in the belief that “Life is Luxury,” Ninad’s latest endeavor pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, showcasing a curated collection of high-end masterpieces crafted by India’s finest artisans and emerging talents from institutions like JJ School of Art.

ELM Art Gallery aims to preserve and celebrate India’s rich artistic heritage while offering a platform for innovation. The gallery will feature an exquisite range of paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect maximalist aesthetics and intricate craftsmanship-hallmarks of the ELM Designs brand.

“Our mission with ELM Art Gallery is to create a space where art meets soul,” said Ninad Pardeshi. He further added, “This gallery is not just about displaying art; it’s about connecting people to the stories, emotions, and traditions that define our culture. We want our patrons to experience luxury not just as opulence but as a deeper connection to beauty and heritage.”

This ELM Art Gallery designed to cater to high-net-worth individuals and art lovers reflects ELM Designs’ core values of excellence, creativity, and sustainability. Its debut collection under Moksha Sutra will highlight works that integrate vastu principles and eco-conscious materials, offering visitors a sensory journey through India’s artistic legacy.

In addition to its Mumbai location, Ninad Pardeshi has ambitious plans to expand ELM Art Gallery internationally, with future galleries envisioned in Milan and Dubai, further positioning ELM Designs as a global leader in luxury design and artistry.