Category Archives: News

Vishal Jain Joins AiDASH as Head of AI, Advancing Integrated Platform for Grid Inspection and Monitoring

BENGALURU, December 12, 2024 — AiDASH, an enterprise SaaS company providing satellite-first AI applications for remote inspection and monitoring of critical infrastructure, today announced the appointment of Dr. Vishal Jain as Head of AI. Dr. Jain brings over 15 years of expertise in perception and mapping, leveraging aerial, satellite, and terrestrial data, including LiDAR, infrared, and optical imagery. In his new role, he will lead AI innovation on AiDASH’s integrated Platform for Grid Inspection and Monitoring. He will be based in AiDASH’s global headquarters in Palo Alto.

Jain’s previous roles in AI, computer vision, robotics, autonomous vehicles, precision mapping, and data fusion align closely with AiDASH’s unified, satellite-first approach to grid inspection and monitoring, aimed at making critical infrastructure more climate-resilient and sustainable.

At Velodyne LiDAR, Jain led the software engineering division responsible for building real-time LiDAR perception systems widely used in autonomous vehicles and robots. The product capabilities were utilized across different sectors, including autonomous driving, industrial mobility, and perimeter security.

 Jain co-founded Vision Systems, where he led the development of cutting-edge aerial and satellite imaging systems for large-scale reconnaissance and change detection, delivering critical solutions to the Department of Defense (DoD) and its associated agencies, including the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA).

 Jain played a key role in advancing HD mapping at HERE Technologies. He spearheaded the integration of crowd-sourced data to create highly accurate, real-time precision maps for autonomous vehicles. His work helped autonomous systems navigate complex environments, supporting safer and more efficient transportation solutions.

 At 2-Sigma School, Jain led AI initiatives, developing multi-modal LLM applications to advance adaptive learning.
As a Research Fellow at Robotics Research, he helped architect next-generation perception systems for autonomous vehicles, specializing in perceiving off-road terrains for object segmentation and tracking in challenging environments.

“Vishal’s addition underscores AiDASH’s commitment to advancing climate resilience for the industries that need it most using the most advanced AI,” said Abhishek Singh, CEO and Co-Founder of AiDASH. “His technical expertise and vision will help us deliver critical insights to adapt to the increasing challenges posed by climate change on vital infrastructure.”

Jain earned a PhD in Computer Vision from Brown University and a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Delhi. With expertise in technical leadership, practical implementation, and groundbreaking research, he complements AiDASH’s goal of providing satellite-first AI applications for remote inspection and monitoring to make critical infrastructure climate-resilient.

Accelerating Innovation to Meet Global Demand
Jain joins AiDASH amid rapid growth, with over 150 global customers and a track record of doubling annual revenue since 2019. His expertise will support AiDASH’s goal of empowering critical infrastructure industries to make data-informed decisions that protect assets and surrounding environments against climate-related risks.

In-Flight Payments Revolutionized: Worldline and Forthcode Launch Android POS Solutions in India

Mumbai, 12 December 2024: Worldline (Euronext: WLN), a global leader in payment services, announced a strategic partnership with Forthcode, a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform provider, to provide in-flight payment solutions using its Android POS machines in India.

Ancillary revenue is an integral component of any airlines operations but without digitisation managing it manually becomes time consuming.

The strategic partnership between Worldline and Forthcode addresses this problem and through an integrated platform combines in-flight retail, inventory management and payment solutions with Worldline’s Android POS. The integrated platform is a cloud-hosted Software as a Service (SaaS) solution, designed to manage complete operations, catering management, and onboard sales.

This digitalization and automation will create a seamless and scalable solution for any airline. A reliable POS solution helps airline generate additional revenues while the transactions are quick, and reconciliation is automated.

For the traveller, it creates convenience and ease of purchase without depending on cash. They can simply pay via credit card by tapping or dipping to purchase any items onboard while flying.

Mr. Sheik Mohideen, Executive Vice President – India, Worldline, said: “Our partnership with Forthcode to enhance the in-flight experience demonstrates our commitment to providing a comprehensive omnichannel payment solution. I am confident that this collaboration will lead to smarter and more inclusive payment options that can accelerate business growth.”

Ajith Balakumar, CEO of Forthcode, said, “This partnership with Worldline marks a significant milestone in our journey to drive innovation in the fintech/aviation space. At Forthcode, we believe in the power of technology to transform industries, and by aligning our expertise with Worldline’s leadership in secure payments, we are setting new standards for what’s possible in digital commerce. Together, we are ready to empower airlines worldwide.”

Panasonic Unveils Advanced i-PRO AI Surveillance Solutions at IFSEC India 2024

India, 12th December 2024: The System Solutions Division (SSD) of Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), a diversified technology company today announced the launch of two new innovative surveillance solutions at the IFSEC India 2024, South Asia’s largest security expo and conference held in New Delhi. The new solutions include the AI-enabled High Zoom Bullet Camera and X-series Camera with AI based On-site Learning analytics, designed to provide unparalleled security and surveillance capabilities to the Indian market. Besides this, the company also showcased its comprehensive security and surveillance portfolio at the event, including the recently launched anti-ligature corner camera and Video Door Phone range- highlighting the company’s extensive range of solutions.

Commenting on the launch, Vijay Wadhawan, Director, System Solutions Division, Panasonic Life Solutions India said, “With increasing urbanization and infrastructure development, the Indian market is at the cusp of a surveillance revolution. The integration of innovative technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) is providing boundless opportunities to the sector, with enhanced capabilities like facial recognition and real-time analytics. At Panasonic, we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation with our advanced solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers. The latest AI-powered i-PRO camera solutions, unveiled at IFSEC India 2024, have been meticulously designed to address the unique security challenges faced by Indian customers, empowering them to create safer, more secure environments.”

“With a strong presence in India and serving over 500 leading enterprises, we understand the unique security challenges faced by different industries. Our intelligent security solutions encompass CCTV Camera Surveillance, Perimeter Security, and Access Control solutions that streamline operations and increase efficiency. This integrated approach optimizes cost efficiency and brings down the total cost of ownership for businesses,” Mr. Wadhawan further added.

The AI-enabled High Zoom Bullet Camera features 10x and 30x zoom options, available in 2MP, 5MP, and 4K resolutions, with long-range IR LED capabilities up to 250m/820ft for optimal performance in low-light conditions. These cameras are equipped with AI-driven object detection using the Ambarella CV52 SoC, offering enhanced object detection. The i-PRO Active Guard intelligent search application is integrated with various metadata describing the unique attributes of humans and vehicles and is seamlessly delivered to popular Video Management Systems (VMS). Additionally, four LPR-optimized models capture objects at high speeds (up to 130 km/h) during the day or night. The cameras also include gyro-based stabilization for improved image long-range zoom operations, reducing vibration and ensuring sharp images, even in challenging conditions. The solution is ideal for traffic and perimeter surveillance, including night vision capabilities.

The new i-PRO X Series Camera lineup leverages AI on-site learning, allowing users or integrators to train the camera to monitor specific objects. Enhanced edge computing power enables further customization by teaching the camera to identify unique objects of interest. It can also upgrade non-AI network cameras into AI-enabled smart devices. Available in 2MP, 5MP, 6MP, and 4K models, the X Series offers exceptional image performance with a Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) of up to 144dB and IR illumination of up to 70 meters, ensuring clarity in all conditions. This surveillance solution is ideal for applications in manufacturing units, hospitals, retail outlets, etc.

Anphonic’s Expansion in India: 25 New Brand Partnerships and a 20% Boost in AOV

December 12th 2024: NATIONAL – Anphonic, a growth partner to D2C brands for maximising their revenue, onboards over 25 brands in the last two months showcasing the need for smart enablers beyond traditional performance marketing. This rapid growth has unlocked $100,000 in incremental sales, raising average order value (AOV) by about 20%.

Among the notable brands that have joined Anphonic’s innovative ecosystem are Waterscience, Nuutjob, Tiivra, ThePahadiStory, Factornotes, Bhoj Masale, Nautica, Kaatil, Plaay, and Alpino. Anphonic empowers brands to personalize the shopping journey, driving higher average order values, increased conversions, and lasting customer loyalty. The swift adoption of AI-powered personalization by these online retailers signals a paradigm shift in how D2C brands engage with their customers.

Vicky Kukreja, Founder and CEO of Anphonic, stated, “Our platform is designed to empower brands by offering personalized shopping experiences that resonate with online shoppers , ultimately leading to increased conversions, higher AOV and loyal customers . We understand that in today’s competitive market, brands need to connect deeply with their customers. By leveraging advanced AI- powered shopping experiences, we can create tailored interactions that not only meet but exceed shopper expectations. We are thrilled to partner with these brands and look forward to working collaboratively to drive growth and innovation in the expanding online retail landscape”.

Anphonic is dedicated to maximizing shopper interactions and empowering retail growth through AI-driven, hyper-personalized solutions. With a mission to enhance engagement and strengthen brand loyalty, ensuring sustainable success for brands.

Early-Onset Breast Cancer: Key Facts and Advice for Younger Women

As women often juggle multiple responsibilities, health sometimes takes a backseat. But staying proactive about wellness is crucial, especially when it comes to understanding changes in our bodies. The choices we make now, in our youth, can have lasting effects on our long-term well-being. It’s essential to remain informed and aware of any signs that may signal a deeper issue.

 One area that demands attention, particularly for younger women, is breast cancer. While it’s often viewed as a condition that primarily affects older women, early-onset breast cancer—diagnosed before the age of 45—is becoming an increasingly relevant topic. Thus, making it imperative to know about this condition, the potential risk factors, and the importance of early detection.

 What Is Early-Onset Breast Cancer?
Early-onset breast cancer refers to cases diagnosed in women under the age of 45. Although less common in younger women, its impact can be particularly challenging due to unique risk factors and concerns. The aggressive nature of some breast cancer subtypes, combined with the potential effects on fertility and long-term health, makes early detection and treatment especially critical.

 Risk Factors for Younger Women
Several factors may increase the likelihood of breast cancer in younger women, including:
1. Genetic Predisposition: A family history of breast cancer, particularly with mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2, significantly raises the risk.
2. Reproductive History: Women who began menstruating at an early age, had children later in life (or not at all), or experienced early menopause may face a higher risk.
3. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, and an unhealthy diet can contribute to an elevated risk.
4. Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation therapy to the chest, especially during adolescence, can increase the likelihood of breast cancer later in life.

 The Importance of Early Detection
For younger women, breast cancer can often be more aggressive. Tumors may grow and spread more quickly, making early detection vital. Regular breast self-examinations, along with routine screenings like mammograms, are key to catching the disease in its earliest stages. If you notice any changes in your breasts, such as lumps, pain, or unusual discharge, seeking medical advice is crucial.

 Treatment Options for Younger Women
Treatment for early-onset breast cancer typically depends on the cancer’s stage and specific characteristics. Options may include:
• Surgery: To remove the tumor or, in more severe cases, a mastectomy to remove the entire breast.
• Chemotherapy and Radiation: These therapies are often used post-surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Targeted Therapy: Treatments that specifically target the cancer’s unique properties can be an effective option for certain subtypes.

 Navigating the Emotional and Physical Impact
Being diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age brings unique challenges. Many women face concerns about fertility, body image, and balancing treatment with personal and professional responsibilities. Seeking emotional support—whether from family, friends, or support groups—can help in coping with these complexities.

 Take Charge of Your Health
While the risk of breast cancer in younger women may seem daunting, being informed, proactive, and vigilant can make all the difference. Know your body, prioritize regular check-ups, and don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any unusual changes. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment and a better prognosis, empowering you to take control of your health and future.

ViewSonic Announces Launch of New Monitors in India for 2025

12th Dec 2024: ViewSonic, a global leader in visual solutions, today unveiled its latest monitor lineup at the ColorPro Awards 2024 Exhibition: Momentum event in India. The new range features cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance tailored for creative professionals, modern workspaces, and gamers. Highlights include an AI monitor, ultra-fast gaming monitors, and a 5K display with automatic color calibration designed for creators, especially Mac users—all engineered to deliver outstanding visual quality and enhance productivity.

ViewSonic also showcased the winning artworks from the ColorPro Awards, celebrating the vibrant creative community and inspiring the pursuit of exceptional visual expression. These remarkable pieces embody the spirit of innovation and artistry, encouraging both established and emerging creatives to push the boundaries of visual storytelling. India shined at the event, having made over 2,500 submissions under four award categories: Photography, Videography, Digital, and Generated Art. “Riders of the Volcano” from India bagged third place under the photography category.

“We are excited to introduce our latest monitor lineup, which reflects ViewSonic’s unwavering commitment to innovation and user-centric design. From AI monitor with intelligent sensening for modern workspaces to ultra-fast gaming displays and cutting-edge solutions tailored for creative professionals, this range is designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s users. By integrating advanced technologies like AI and Thunderbolt™ 4, we continue to elevate user experience, productivity, and creativity to new heights” said Oscar Lin, General Manager of the Monitor Business Unit at ViewSonic.

“We are delighted to host the first-ever local exhibition of the ColorPro Awards in India, as part of its global fifth-year milestone. This marks an exciting step in bringing the celebration of creativity and innovation closer to our Indian audience. The comprehensive monitor lineup we’re showcasing is tailored to meet the specific needs of Indian users across creative, business, and gaming sectors. By integrating cutting-edge technology, we remain committed to delivering solutions that enhance productivity and user experiences,” said Sanjoy Bhattacharya, Director – Sales and Marketing -IT Division at ViewSonic.

VG2748A-2K: AI Monitor with Intelligent Sensing Technology

The latest AI monitor is designed to revolutionize the workspace by prioritizing user comfort, privacy, and sustainability. Equipped with an Ambient Light Sensor, it automatically optimizes screen brightness and backlight settings to enhance viewing comfort. Features like Posture Check, Break Reminder, and Focused Attention Mode ensure ergonomic support, improved focus, and better health during long work sessions. For privacy, the monitor integrates Privacy Alert and Auto-Dimmer, helping prevent visual hacking and safeguarding sensitive information. Additionally, this monitor promotes sustainability through its Power-Saving Mode, Energy Star and EPEAT certifications, and eco-friendly packaging.

A New Series of ColorPro Monitors Designed for Exceptional Creative Work

VP2788-5K: The 5K Monitor tailored for Mac Users

The VP2788-5K is purpose-built for Mac users, seamlessly integrating with the Apple ecosystem through its advanced hardware and self-developed software to deliver an unparalleled visual and professional experience. With stunning 5K resolution at 218 PPI, featuring 99% DCI-P3, this monitor ensures vibrant and consistent colors that align perfectly with Apple’s visual standards. Its Thunderbolt™ 4 connectivity supports effortless integration with peripherals, while the unique dual 5K daisy-chaining capability expands multitasking potential.

VP2776T-4K & VP3276T-4K Thunderbolt™ 4 Monitors

The VP2776T-4K and VP3276T-4K Thunderbolt™ 4 monitors set a new standard for connectivity and efficiency, designed for both creative and professionals. With dual Thunderbolt™ 4 ports offering blazing-fast speeds of up to 40 Gbps, they enable lightning-quick data transfer, dual 4K display support via Daisy Chain, and streamlined workflows—all with a single cable. Coupled with a comprehensive array of connectivity options—including dual HDMI 2.1, USB-C, DisplayPort 1.4, and Ethernet—these monitors deliver seamless docking and integration into any setup. Featuring stunning 4K UHD resolution, Delta E <2 color accuracy, and a 98% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB color gamut, they provide vibrant, true-to-life visuals to meet the demands of professionals.

VP3285- 4K-OLED: Unmatched Precision and Performance for Creators

The VP3285-4K-OLED raises the bar for professional displays with cutting-edge OLED technology, delivering true blacks and over 1.07 billion colors (true 10-bit) for unmatched visual clarity. Enhanced by an Intelligent Sensor suite—including Ambient Light, Human Position, and Gesture Control—this monitor offers an intuitive and immersive user experience.

Designed for creative professionals, it boasts 98% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB color coverage, Pantone Validation, and Delta E < 2 for precise and consistent color accuracy. With versatile connectivity options and daisy-chaining functionality, the VP3285-4K-OLED simplifies workflows, making it an essential tool for seamless productivity and creativity.

Next-level Gaming Monitors: XG325D-4K-OLED and XG2737

For gamers seeking the ultimate competitive edge, ViewSonic introduces the XG325D-4K-OLED and XG2737 monitors. The XG325D-4K-OLED is a 32-inch 4K UHD OLED display that offers dual mode feature, allowing users to switch between 4K at 240Hz or FHD at 480Hz. This monitor also features AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for tear-free, smooth gameplay and an incredibly fast 0.03ms GtG response time.

The XG2737 is a 27-inch FHD IPS monitor boasting an impressive 520Hz refresh rate and a 1ms MPRT response time, perfect for fast-paced competitive gaming. Both monitors are equipped with advanced features to enhance the gaming experience, including multiple connectivity options and built-in speakers for immersive audio.

ViewSonic is set to bring its latest range of advanced monitors to India in the first half of 2025. With a focus on innovation and superior visual quality, these monitors are designed to meet the evolving needs of both professionals and gamers, promising to elevate the viewing experience to new heights.

Transforming Cinematic Experiences: Live Your City Joins PVR INOX for Candlelight Concerts

Mumbai, India, 12 December 2024 – Candlelight Concerts by Live Your City, a brand under the American company Fever, has partnered with PVR INOX, India’s leading cinema chain, to bring an innovative musical experience to audiences in Bengaluru, Gurugram, and Mumbai. These captivating performances aim to transform premium cinema venues into intimate, candlelit spaces, offering audiences a fresh and immersive way to experience live music.

 Set to captivate audiences of all ages, these concerts will feature iconic movie soundtracks and tribute performances celebrating legendary artists like Kishore Kumar, RD Burman, Queen, and ABBA, the concerts invite audiences to rediscover timeless melodies in an intimate and unforgettable setting.

 By bringing live music into cinema theatres, this one-of-a-kind initiative taps into the growing demand for performances that transcend traditional entertainment boundaries. With a rising appetite among audiences to explore new ways of enjoying music, this collaboration between Candlelight Concerts and PVR INOX is perfectly poised to meet this demand. The concept not only offers a fresh way to experience live music but also enriches India’s cultural entertainment scene, providing audiences with the opportunity to reconnect with iconic classics in a new and engaging setting.

 Deepa Bajaj, Country Manager of Live Your City India, remarked, “We are thrilled to bring our renowned Candlelight Concerts to PVR INOX theatres, marking a significant milestone in making live arts experiences accessible to local audiences in their favoured legacy venues for entertainment. This partnership aligns with our vision to bring innovative and immersive entertainment outside traditional spaces to reach larger audiences. By blending the magic of live music with the comfort and luxury of PVR theatres, we are setting a new benchmark in audience engagement.”

 Nayana Bijli, Content Acquisition Director at PVR INOX, commented,

 “This partnership with Candlelight Concerts reimagines how our theaters can be experienced, turning them into unique venues for intimate, live performances. It’s an opportunity for us to offer audiences something extraordinary—an experience that combines the elegance of our spaces with the magic of live music.”

 PVR INOX theatres, renowned for their premium settings, provide the perfect backdrop for Candlelight Concerts. With a thoughtful curation of comfort and acoustics, these venues promise an intimate yet impactful musical experience. The first performances are scheduled for the weekend of 31st January to 2nd February 2025 in Bengaluru, Gurugram, and Mumbai. As the collaboration evolves, Candlelight Concerts and PVR INOX aim to explore new avenues to bring exceptional and diverse offerings to audiences across the country.

The Malaka Lit Fest in Pune: A Dynamic Fusion of Literature, Travel, and Biking Culture

Pune, December 2024: The vibrant Malaka Lit-Fest, organized in collaboration by The Quill Collective and Malaka Spice, brings an exciting series of events celebrating literature, travel enthusiasts, bikers, creative minds, and children. Set across multiple days in December, the festival offers a unique opportunity to engage with authors, travellers, bikers, and creative writing enthusiasts, and includes a Book Exhibition of bestselling books all December long at Koregaon Park and Kharadi.

The festival kicks off with an Open Mic & Author Round Table on Sunday, 15th December, at Malaka Spice, Koregaon Park, from 5 PM to 8 PM. This event features a roundtable discussion with renowned authors such as Jasbir Basu, Col. Ashish Raisinghani, Natansh Dubey, Amol Kulkarni, Jiyyad Shahul and Sanjay Lazar. Hosted by Nilshree Yelulkar, the evening will include an engaging open mic session by Kalamanach and a book signing opportunity for attendees.

On Wednesday, 18th December, the focus shifts to travel with Travelgram –The travel & rewards event. It will have Round Table Talks at Malaka Spice, Kharadi, from 5 PM to 8 PM. Travel enthusiasts can look forward to discussions with experts like Neil Borate, Jay @trickytrade, Vandana Vijay, Ameya Bothara, Sanjal Shashtri, Priti Jain, Kumar Shah, Col. Raisinghani and others, covering topics such as solo travels, backpacking, reward points, and How to earn your Free Holidays using credit cards.

Saturday, 21st December, will feature two engaging workshops. The morning begins with a Creative Writing Workshop for Kids from 10 AM to 1130 AM at Malaka Spice, Koregaon Park. Hosted by noted educationists Sujata Taterh, Nilshree Yelulkar, and Alisha, the workshop opens the world of creative writing and blogging to young minds. Later, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, adults can join the Creative Writing Workshop led by Siddharth Sen, Sanjay Lazar, and Alisha, which will cover creative writing, editing, and self-publishing, followed by a author book signing session.

The evening of 21st December brings the Curtain Call Micro Play & Poetry Open Mic at Malaka Spice, Kharadi, from 5 PM to 8 PM. Curtain Call will present a micro play on literary icons Sahir Ludhianvi and Amrita Pritam, followed by a poetry open mic session by Fateful Connections and Curtain Call.

The festival culminates on Sunday, 22nd December, with Bikers Tales at Malaka Spice, Koregaon Park, from 5 PM to 8 PM. This session will bring together celebrated bikers such as Urvashi Patole, Rajeshree Rele, Kumar Shah, and Col. Raisinghani amongst others for an engaging discussion. The event will also feature a book launch by Sanjay Lazar and others, an open mic session, author signings. There will be an exclusive parking zone for the majestic motorcycles of the attendees.

Shining in NCC: Noida International University Students Lead the Way in Cadet Corps Achievements

Three cadets from Noida International University (NIU) have been selected for the prestigious NCC Republic Day Camp (RDC) and shortlisted for Youth Exchange Programme (YEP) from UP Directorate, Ghaziabad group. This remarkable achievement underscores the exceptional talent and dedication of NIU NCC Cadets .

 All three students have been selected for the Republic Day Camp which is currently undergoing the training at Panchsheel Balak Inter College, Noida . The camp began from 9th -28th December 2024 ,further they will move to Delhi cantt DG NCC, Dhaula kuan, New Delhi for regular practice at rajpath for their final day performance i.e on 26th Jan Republic Day celebration 2025 The students were brought to take the blessings from the leaders of NIU during their training break.

 Dr. Vikram Singh, Chancellor, Noida International University said,’ Noida International University (NIU) is proud to announce a momentous achievement that highlights the exceptional talent and dedication of our students. On behalf of NIU, he extended the heartfelt congratulations to Gautam Krishna, Nikhil Bhati, and Saran Bahadur. Their success is a proud moment for the university’s commitment to nurturing excellence in its students. He also encouraged cadets and wished them good luck for their completion of their Matching PM rally followed by high tea with the honourable Prime Minister.

 Prof. (Dr.) Uma Bhardwaj, Vice-Chancellor, Noida International University and Dr. Mukesh Parashar, Registrar, Noida International University congratulated the cadets for their outstanding accomplishment and lauded their hard work and dedication. They also encouraged them to excel further and bring laurels to the university and the nation.

 The success of these cadets is a remarkable achievement to NIU’s commitment to excellence and its support for holistic student development. This proud achievement was celebrated with great enthusiasm at NIU, where the students were blessed and honored, added Lt. Pratima Pandey, Dean Student Welfare & Director of Sports.

 Out of 11 cadets chosen from the Uttar Pradesh State Directorate, Gautam Krishna (School of Engineering and Technology) and Nikhil Bhati (School of Allied Health Sciences) have secured spots in YEP. Also, Saran Bahadur (School of Business Management) has been named as a reserve candidate.

 The YEP is an international camaraderie and cultural exchange program in collaboration with 15 countries, including Nepal, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Russia, Bhutan, Maldives, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka. Each year, 183 cadets are selected nationwide via a tough & rigorous process at the Republic Day Camp (RDC), assessing drill performance, personality, general knowledge, written tests, and communication skills.

SOG Grandmasters South Teams Up with Robin Uthappa for Bengaluru’s Inaugural Zonal Finals on December 18-19

Bengaluru, 12th December 2024: Former Indian cricket star Robin Uthappa will be the face of the inaugural SOG Grandmasters Series’ South 1 Zonal Finals, an initiative of the Skillhub Online Games Federation (SOGF), scheduled for December 18-19 at the Sheraton Grand in Whitefield, Bengaluru. Along with Uthappa’s strong star power and overwhelming response through their registrations for the online qualifiers of the southern zone championship, the tournament will celebrate exceptional talents and unearth mind sports athletes and promote excellence nationwide.

The inaugural SOG Grandmasters Series registrations indicated significant interest across all categories. Over 55,000 players signed up for free online pre-qualifiers of Indian Rummy Grandmasters (IRG) and Indian Chess Masters (ICM), highlighting their increasing popularity as cognitive skill-based mind sports. The top 125 from the total registered players, who played the Online Qualifiers for IRG and ICM will travel to Bangalore for the Zonal finals. In addition, the Chess for the Blind event, organised by the All-India Chess Federation for the Blind (AICFB) served as pre-qualifiers to the Indian Chess Masters for the Blind (ICMB), from which 16 top players have been shortlisted for the South Zonal Finals.

Robin Uthappa to Bat for SOG Grandmasters South as Bengaluru Hosts Inaugural Zonal Finals on December 18-19

Bengaluru, 10th December 2024: Former Indian cricket star Robin Uthappa will be the face of the inaugural SOG Grandmasters Series’ South 1 Zonal Finals, an initiative of the Skillhub Online Games Federation (SOGF), scheduled for December 18-19 at the Sheraton Grand in Whitefield, Bengaluru. Along with Uthappa’s strong star power and overwhelming response through their registrations for the online qualifiers of the southern zone championship, the tournament will celebrate exceptional talents and unearth mind sports athletes and promote excellence nationwide.

The inaugural SOG Grandmasters Series registrations indicated significant interest across all categories. Over 55,000 players signed up for free online pre-qualifiers of Indian Rummy Grandmasters (IRG) and Indian Chess Masters (ICM), highlighting their increasing popularity as cognitive skill-based mind sports. The top 125 from the total registered players, who played the Online Qualifiers for IRG and ICM will travel to Bangalore for the Zonal finals. In addition, the Chess for the Blind event, organised by the All-India Chess Federation for the Blind (AICFB) served as pre-qualifiers to the Indian Chess Masters for the Blind (ICMB), from which 16 top players have been shortlisted for the South Zonal Finals.

Speaking about the event, Mr. Shankar Aggarwal, President of SOGF said: “Having Robin Uthappa, a World Cup-winning cricketer known for his resilience and mental strength, represent the SOG Grandmasters South Regional Finals is a powerful way to inspire the next generation of mind sports athletes. Robin’s story of overcoming challenges and excelling on the global stage will motivate participants to aim higher, with the dream of representing India. His presence bridges traditional sports and skill-based online games, helping to popularize these disciplines and encourage more players to step forward. The overwhelming response to the Grandmasters Series reflects India’s growing passion for skill-based sports, and we are committed to creating an inclusive platform that nurtures this talent and propels it onto the global stage.”

Uthappa, a World Cup-winning cricketer known for his swashbuckling playing style, a popular TV Commentator and a strong advocate for mental health, serves as a powerful source of inspiration for the youth, as he becomes the face of the SOG Grandmasters South Regional Finals. As a champion of ethical playing and mental health and a proponent of resilience, hard work and making dreams come true, Uthappa exemplifies the values of focus, strategy, and perseverance that are essential in skill-based gaming.

Speaking about the event, Uthappa said, “Mind sports are truly unique in how they celebrate cognitive skills. The SOG Grandmasters Series is a remarkable platform that highlights the power of strategy, focus, and mental resilience—qualities I deeply value both as a cricketer and as an advocate for mental well-being. This series not only showcases exceptional talent across India, but also nurtures the competitive spirit and creates new opportunities to unearth and spotlight talent in the mind sports arena. I’m excited to be part of this initiative and am eager to witness the next generation of champions rise from such an initiative.”

The South 1 Zonal Finals will be a lan event with “phygital” experience, blending physical and digital formats under one roof. The Bengaluru event will be followed by Zonal finals in other zones, with the finalists–two from chess for Men, two from Chess for Women, two from Chess for the Blind, and six from Online Rummy in each zone – competing in the Nationals in April 2025 in New Delhi.