Category Archives: News

India Tops the Global South in Adapting to the AI and Tech Revolution

New Delhi, December 09, 2024 –The Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC), the world’s premier forum for workforce development and labor market insights, has released a report shedding light on how rapidly evolving technologies are reshaping global employment. Navigating Tomorrow: Mastering Skills in a Dynamic Global Labor Market underscores India’s pivotal role in the Global South’s response to artificial intelligence and automation, showcasing the country’s workers as frontrunners in skill development and technological adaptation.

India’s Workers Rise to Meet the Challenge of the Tech Era

With over 70% of Indian professionals actively seeking opportunities to upskill, the report identifies India as a global leader in technological adaptation​. The dynamic nature of India’s job market, where artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation are becoming integral, drives this proactive stance.

Key Insights:

1. Higher Trust in Government Compared to Other Markets: While global trust in governments to support upskilling remains low at 20%, Indian respondents (31%) and those in Saudi Arabia (35%) demonstrated significantly higher confidence in their governments. In contrast, countries like the USA (15%) and UK (12%) reported markedly lower trust levels. Indian respondents also expressed 49% trust in businesses, further emphasizing the private sector’s role in workforce development​.
2. Technological Change is Driving Urgency for Skills Development: The urgency to reskill due to technological advancements is a shared concern among Indian workers, with 55% fearing that their skills could become partially or fully obsolete within the next five years. This places India in line with the global trend, where similar concerns are expressed by 61% in Brazil and 60% in China, compared to lower levels in developed markets such as the UK (44%) and Australia (43%).
3. Climate Change Spurs Skills Development in Key Sectors: Climate change is a more significant driver of upskilling or reskilling in India, with 32% of respondents identifying it as a factor influencing their reskilling decisions in the next five years. This aligns with countries like China (41%) and Vietnam (36%) but contrasts with countries such as the UK (14%) and USA (18%), where climate change has a comparatively lower impact on skills development priorities.
4. Barriers to Skill Development Persist: Barriers to upskilling or reskilling remain consistent globally, with Indian respondents citing lack of time (40%) and financial constraints (38%) as primary challenges. Similar patterns are observed in Brazil, where 43% report lack of time and 39% financial constraints, and in South Africa, where 45% and 42% respectively cite these barriers. In contrast, respondents in developed markets like Norway and the UK report fewer obstacles. In Norway, only 27% cite lack of time and 28% financial constraints, while in the UK, the figures are 31% and 24%, respectively, reflecting the impact of stronger support systems in these countries. These variations highlight the differing levels of accessibility and institutional support across global regions.
5. Emphasis on STEM, Cognitive, and Socio-Emotional Skills: When considering the future of skills, respondents in the APAC region, including India, prioritized cognitive skills (54%) and STEM capabilities (38%) as essential for thriving in a technology-driven economy. In contrast, socio-emotional skills were more valued in service-oriented economies such as the USA and the EU, with 39% and 41% of respondents prioritizing these skills, respectively. Meanwhile, in Africa and LATAM, STEM skills are relatively lower in priority at 30% and 34%, respectively, while entrepreneurial skills gained prominence in Africa (47%). These variations highlight regional differences in workforce priorities and the influence of economic structures on skill demand.

Harrington Street Arts Centre Unveils ‘We Live in Furnished Souls’, A Revolutionary Art Exhibition

Kolkata, 9th December, 2024: The Bridging Culture and Art Foundation (B-CAF), in collaboration with The Harrington Street Arts Centre (HSAC), launched the much-anticipated exhibition ‘We Live in Furnished Souls’ with an elegant inauguration ceremony on Thursday, December 5th, 2024. Curated by Nanak Ganguly, the exhibition showcases a rich tapestry of contemporary visual art by a group of regional artists, including Arpan Sadhukhan, Puspen Roy, Snehasis Maity, Piyali Sadhukhan, Saumen Khamrui, Sekharbaran Karmakar, Subhankar Chakrabarty, and Umesh Jana.

The opening was graced by distinguished guests, including CS (Dr.) Adv. Mamta Binani, President of the MSME Development Forum, West Bengal; Mr. Shiv K Agarwala, Honorary Consul of Romania in Kolkata; Mr. Pradip K Agarwal, CEO of Heritage Group of Institutions; Ms. Reena Dewan, Director of B-CAF; Ms. Noni Khullar, Director of HSAC; and Mr. Imran Zaki, President of FACES and many other eminent personalities.

The exhibition will be on view at the Harrington Street Art Gallery from Dec 5th to Dec 14th, 2024, from 12 noon to 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

The exhibition brings together a dynamic collection of artworks that traverse diverse genres, from painting and sculpture to installations, challenging conventional boundaries of art and representation. As Nanak Ganguly, the curator, eloquently noted, the exhibition invites a redefinition of realism and abstraction, reflecting the urgent need to transcend outdated notions of modernism and embrace new, inclusive forms of artistic expression.

Speaking to the media, Ms. Reena Dewan, Director B-CAF, said, “The artworks are deeply personal and self-referential, shaped by the artists’ intimate visions and explorations of form, space and myth. Each piece invites the viewer to move beyond the familiar and discover something new.”

On this Occasion, Mr. Nanak Ganguly, Curator, said, “The beauty and idea of these works hold us in extreme promises to challenge representation as a ‘formidable tool of domination’ but to a redefinition of realism because it is high time to realize we will no longer be restricted by debased modernism and redefine the definition, of realism, abstraction and cultural representation.”

Speaking to the media, Ms. Noni Khullar, Director HSAC, said, “The passion driving these artists is unmistakable—whether it is carefully restrained, revealing itself in subtle, thoughtful expressions or unleashed in raw, turbulent energy that mirrors the complexities of life itself.”

SDME Society’s Ayurveda Colleges Shine with Top National Rankings

December 9th, 2024, Bengaluru: Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Education (SDME) Society announces a remarkable achievement as three of its Ayurveda colleges have excelled in the Quality Council of India (QCI) grading, conducted by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) across India. This evaluation took place recently to assess institutions’ performance.

Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Ayurveda, Hospital & Research Centre, located in Kuthpady, Udupi, received the 2nd rank.

In Hassan, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College of Ayurveda and Hospital earned the 4th rank.
Additionally, the Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Institute of Ayurveda & Hospital in Anchepalya, Kumbalagoudu Village, Bengaluru, achieved the 9th rank, marking a significant milestone for the institution.

“We take great pride in the collective efforts of our faculty, students, and staff.” says Mr. Shreyes Kumar, Director of SDME Society, commenting on this significant achievement. “Our commitment to fostering a transformative learning environment remains strong. To enhance our recognition, we are focusing on several strategic approaches that respond to current trends and future needs. This includes acknowledging small daily accomplishments, enhancing our curriculum through innovative teaching methods, updating academic programs to incorporate the latest advancements and research in Ayurveda, implementing clinical services and outreach programs, and further upgrading our infrastructure.”

The QCI and MARBISM rankings are aligned with the mission and vision of the SDM Ayurveda colleges, which emphasize quality education, healthcare services, and research in Ayurveda. The institutions aim to serve humanity through ethical and value-based learning, focusing on providing affordable healthcare services and operational excellence, as demonstrated by their NABH accreditation.

The criteria used for the QCI and MARBISM rankings include curriculum quality, practical and clinical experience, teaching-learning environment, student progression, assessment policies, research output, financial resources, community outreach, quality assurance systems, and stakeholder feedback. This comprehensive evaluation serves as a benchmark for quality education and institutional credibility, significantly influencing prospective students’ decisions regarding enrollment in Ayurveda programs.

Iniya Aesthetics & Wellness Marks 6-Month Milestone in Empowering Beauty, Led by Richa Sharma

Kolkata, 9th December, 2024: Iniya Aesthetics & Wellness, the leading destination for transformative skin, anti-aging, and wellness treatments, is celebrating its 6-month anniversary with a grand event hosted by renowned actress Richa Sharma. This milestone marks half a year of providing cutting-edge, science-based beauty and wellness solutions under the expert guidance of Dr. Shraddha Pandey, a distinguished cosmetologist and aesthetic dentist.

Held at Iniya’s luxurious, state-of-the-art facility, the event was a perfect blend of innovation, expertise, and glamour. Attendees had the opportunity to experience personalized consultations, live demonstrations of the clinic’s cutting-edge treatments, and exclusive insights into the future of aesthetics and wellness. The evening featured a range of signature services from Iniya’s offerings, including skin rejuvenation, anti-aging therapies, hair restoration, and permanent makeup.

Speaking to the media, Mrs. Richa Sharma, Actress, said, “It was an absolute pleasure to host this milestone event. Dr. Shraddha Pandey and her incredible team have created a one-of-a-kind space where beauty, well-being, and science converge. I’m so proud to be part of Iniya’s journey and look forward to seeing their continued success.”

On this Occasion, Dr. Shraddha Pandey, Managing Partner, said, “The support we’ve received over the past six months has been beyond anything we could have imagined. From day one, our goal has been to provide personalized, science-backed treatments that help our clients look and feel their best. This event marks the beginning of an exciting journey ahead, and we are grateful to everyone who has been a part of it.”

Speaking to the media, Debarpita Bhattacharyya, CEO of Iniya Aesthetics & Wellness, said, “This 6-month anniversary celebration is not just a milestone, but a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and trust we’ve built with our clients. At Iniya, we are committed to transforming the wellness and beauty experience through innovative treatments and personalized care. We are excited to continue this journey of excellence and look forward to helping more individuals embrace their natural beauty and well-being.”

Iniya Aesthetics & Wellness is a premier destination for advanced skin care, anti-aging, and holistic wellness solutions, founded by Dr. Shraddha Pandey, a distinguished cosmetologist and aesthetic dentist with over a decade of expertise in the field. Located in the heart of Kolkata, Iniya is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their aesthetic goals through innovative, science-backed treatments tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Vidyalankar Group’s ‘Annual HR Summit 2024’ Explores Strategies for Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders

Mumbai, December 2024: The HR Summit 2024, hosted by Vidyalankar Group on December 7, 2024, brought together a dynamic gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and experts aimed at shaping the future of leadership. The event inspired and educated attendees while fostering strong partnerships between industry and academia to create future-ready leaders. Held from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Vidyalankar’s Wadala East campus in Mumbai, the summit was organized in association with the IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Attendees experienced a series of impactful speeches, engaging panel discussions, and insightful sessions covering trends in Marketing, Advertising & BFSI. The summit explored the intersection of HR and technology, future trends in IT/ITES, and effective strategies for developing future leaders. Notably, the emphasis on innovative HR strategies emerged as a key highlight of the event.

This year’s summit welcomed an audience of more than 100 invitees, including HR professionals, industry specialists, students, and faculty members. Esteemed guest speakers featured top management leaders from well-known companies such as PwC India, NASSCOM, Tata Consultancy Services, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, The Belgian Waffle Co., DSP Mutual Fund, LTIMindtree, Motilal Oswal Financial Services, Maersk, and HDFC Life. Attendees actively engaged during Q&A sessions and appreciated networking opportunities during the post-event lunch.

Rashmi Deshpande, Chairperson of Vidyalankar Dnyanapeeth Trust, stated, “At Vidyalankar, we are dedicated to equipping our students with the essential toolset, skillsets, and mindset necessary for success. Our curriculum emphasizes practical exposure to ensure that our graduates excel academically and are well-prepared for industry demands. This event signifies our commitment to nurturing leaders who are ready to innovate and adapt in a rapidly changing world. We aim to foster an environment that encourages collaboration and the exchange of ideas, empowering students and professionals alike to redefine leadership in today’s dynamic landscape.”

Dr. Amit Oak, Chief Operations Officer of Vidyalankar Institute of Technology & Head of the Department for Management Studies, said “The success of the HR Summit 2024 demonstrates the power of collaboration between industry leaders and academia in shaping the future of leadership. Adopting a strategy, mindful and human centric approach to HR is not just an option but a critical necessity in today’s fast paced business landscape.The event provided actionable insights, innovative strategies, and valuable discussions that empowered participants to lead with confidence in an evolving professional landscape. It showed our commitment to helping students gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s changing world. Vidyalankar is proud to offer such a platform that drives change and prepares leaders for tomorrow.”

The Vidyalankar Group was delighted to welcome industry leaders, HR professionals, and academic stakeholders to this successful event, advancing its vision of creating partnerships that redefine the future of work while setting new standards of excellence in human resource and talent development.

Vietjet Boosts Fleet with Cutting-Edge Airbus A321neo ACF for Enhanced Travel Comfort

(Mumbai, December 9, 2024) – Vietjet welcomed its 111th aircraft, an advanced Airbus A321neo ACF, to its modern fleet at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. With its innovative technology, the A321neo ACF reduces fuel consumption and emissions by up to 20% while reducing noise levels by 50%.

As part of its expansion strategy, Vietjet will receive three additional new aircraft in December and plans to wet-lease 6–10 aircraft to meet peak travel demand during the Lunar New Year holiday. These additions will enable Vietjet to enhance its services for both domestic and international travelers.

In 2024, Vietjet has achieved remarkable growth, expanding its vibrant, modern fleet to serve its global flight network connecting Vietnam to more destinations worldwide. These fleet upgrades reinforce Vietjet’s position as a leader in providing safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly travel experiences.

Further, the airline is offering an exciting one-day promotion on December 12, 2024, from 00:00 to 23:59 (GMT+7). Travelers from India to Vietnam can book tickets for as low as INR 11, plus taxes and fees, subject to availability. The travel period for this offer extends from January 1, 2025, to October 25, 2025. Customers can use the promo code VJ12 to take advantage of this incredible deal.

With continued fleet enhancements and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Vietjet is making global travel more accessible and enjoyable than ever. The airline expanded its global presence with a network of 155 routes, including 43 domestic and 112 international routes across Asia and Australia.

Fortis Gurugram Launches Cutting-Edge Advanced Vertigo Lab for Enhanced Treatment Solutions

Gurugram, 09 December 2024: In a groundbreaking move, Fortis Memorial Research Institute Gurugram, today inaugurated a state-of-the-art vertigo laboratory to improve vertigo treatment in India. Vertigo is one of the most commonly underdiagnosed conditions globally. The clinic, led by Dr. Praveen Gupta, aims to transform the understanding and management of vertigo, offering a revolutionary approach to its diagnosis and treatment.

The state-of-the-art Vertigo Lab is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools such as Video Nystagmography, Dynamic Visual Acuity, and Subjective Visual Vertical. These tools are designed to assess eye movements and identify abnormalities in the vestibular system, facilitating the accurate diagnosis of conditions affecting the inner ear and brain. The lab also features advanced testing equipment to evaluate a patient’s perception of verticality, which is critical for diagnosing vestibular disorders that impact balance and spatial orientation.

Dizziness and vertigo are among the most common neurological problems, affecting approximately 35% of the adult population during their lifetime. Symptoms such as fatigue, balance issues, vomiting, and tinnitus (a ringing sensation in the ears) are often confused with low blood pressure, leading to delayed diagnosis or being overlooked altogether. The Vertigo Lab aims to address these challenges through precise diagnostic capabilities and tailored treatment approaches.

Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Head, Neurology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram said, “We are proud to announce the inauguration of one of the most advanced Vertigo Labs in India. This cutting-edge facility is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular disorders, which affect the balance and spatial orientation systems of the body. Vertigo is difficult to diagnose through MRI and CT Scans, often leading to a not so accurate diagnosis, thus leaving both healthcare professionals and patients confused. With the advanced medical equipment, we aim to provide accurate assessments and effective treatments, offering the patients the much-needed relief from conditions that often go undiagnosed or are mismanaged.”

Yash Rawat, Facility Director, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram said, “At Fortis Hospital, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care for our patients. This advanced vestibular lab is a testament to our dedication to improving the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular disorders, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for patients affected by these often-debilitating conditions. Whether it’s an issue related to the inner ear or a neurological condition affecting balance, our team of specialists is ready to provide the care and expertise needed to restore stability and well-being.”

Telangana Tops India in Recovering Money Lost to Cybercrimes, DGP Shikha Goel Reveals

Hyderabad, December 09, 2024…Can you transplant a temple, just like a tree? Dr E Sivanagi Reddy, an archaeologist and historian has a profound legacy in heritage conservation. A master of traditional sculpture, he transplanted over 100 historic temples, including some in Telangana, and constructed more than 100 new ones across Andhra Pradesh.

Just like him, 13 other distinguished individuals with strong connections to Hyderabad addressed the 10th Edition of TEDX held on Sunday at Shilpakala

They include Shikha Goel, the Director General of Police, Telangana who leads key wings including the CID, Cyber Security Bureau, Forensic Sciences, and Women Safety Wing; the most travelled Indian Ravi Prabhu, Tankbund Shiva who rescued the lives of many who tried to jump into the lake and commit suicide; Nag Ashwin, the visionary film-maker; Dr Prahlada Ramarao, a renowned aerospace scientist; Uma Sudhir, Executive Editor at NDTV, a pillar of integrity and fearlessness in Indian journalism; Chef Sanjay Thumma, Vah-Chef fame behind the globally celebrated cooking site, Vahrehvah.com; Aziz Naser and Mast Ali, the duo who brought Hyderabadi humor to the big screen and made people laugh out; Rajya Sabha MP Ayodhya Ramireddy, the visionary entrepreneur and founder of the Ramky Group and a trailblazer in green energy and waste management; Mayur Patnala, visionary social entrepreneur and Founder & Global CEO of Nirmaan Organization; Rubina Nafees Fatima, a social entrepreneur and the founder of Safa India, empowering marginalized women and youth and Kavita Palancha the co-founder of MAKSPay, bridging the gap between financial institutions and underserved communities.

Telangana tops in India in refund efficiency of money lost in cybercrimes said Shikha Goel, Director General of Police, Telangana. The Cyber Security Bureau is aware that 170 different sections of fraudsters can swindle your money.

The refund procedure is made simpler and the High Court actively supports it. This year, we were able to refund Rs 140 crore to the victims, which is the highest amount in India.

As a police, our job is strenuous and exhaustive, but I draw my energy from every life saved, she added.

I am an accidental journalist but I have a fulfilling career. The impact done to society is immeasurable. When I sit and look back, I have both accolades and brickbats. That is part of the job. But when somebody who is impacted by a story names their child after you, what could I have asked for more? she shared.

From ruins to respect, many heritage structures stand tall with pride today. If I can do this, together we can do miracles in the field of heritage said Dr E Sivanagi Reddy. Every stone has a story, let us together make it known to the world he concluded his 18 minute talk.

Fossil fuels are vanishing. How do you make energy for the future? I got into energy research at the suggestion of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. He was my guru and mentor, but he was not my boss. Today India has taken a giant leap in cold fusion and soon will be a dominant player. We will provide clean energy at affordable cost, he said.

Biryani is not a dish, it is a love story. It is very unique; it is made in many layers. It has more than 7000 years old history. It evolved over the years. Every house Biryani has a different aroma. Everybody contributed to its evolution. Its journey will go on so much that we will not be surprised to see in the year 2101 that drones window deliver it. And I would like to be born then so that I will eat without the fear of diabetes or heart ailments, he added

Ayodhya Ramireddy said nature means God. This was the value imbibed in him by his mother. He explained his forty years of journey of contributing to the carbon-free world. His mantra for the same is 10 Rs—Refuse, Re-think, Reduce, Re-use, Re-home, Repair, Refurbish, Recover, Recycle and Repurpose. Besides the technocracy driving enterprises, we need sustainability-driven entrepreneurs.

Kavita Palancha shared how a simple scan transformed the life of street vendors.

Adventure for a seasoned traveller is inevitable. Once I was in South Sudan, suddenly a civil war broke. I had two options left—one to be there and face the consequences, or fly away to a safe place and save life. I was quick enough to decide and flew away. Travelling teaches the importance of quick decision-making Ravi Prabhu shared

When women work, they lift the economy. Rubina shared the powerful story of her journey. She explained how she redefined grassroots empowerment and proved the power of inclusive growth.

Nag Ashwin questioned the comparison culture prevalent in society. People often compare good with bad, this thing to that thing, this film to that film. Stop comparing everything to everybody he said

A lot of people ask me how I pick up my next film. I do as if it is my last film, said. Then I can give my best. I make films for myself, he added.

Aziz Naser and Mast Ali with their witty remarks left the audience with a good spell of humour. Together, they captured the spirit of Hyderabad with their unmatched storytelling and humour.

The 10th edition of TEDxHyderabad was organized by SAHE (Society for Advancement of Human Endeavour), a not-for-profit society.

The theme of this year’s edition was ‘Serendipity’, the occurrence and development of events by chance, happily or beneficially.

Over 1200 attendees took part.

TEDX is a global platform known for ideas worth sharing. The speakers were handpicked in line with TEDx’s mission: to discover powerful, original ideas in local communities and amplify them on a global scale said Viiveck Verma, Curator & Licensee- TEDx Hyderabad

If you think TEDx is all about talks then you are mistaken. It is also about performances and a combination of performers Viiveck Verma added.

Two feature films —01. MITTI, 02. Mallesham were made out of TEDx Hyderabad talks. Many step-wells were restored and more in the offing and many bore wells were revived. The step wells restoration increased the real estate value of the surrounding places. Now they are abuzz with activities he shared

Tank Bund Shiva was in conversation with Ramesh Loganiathan. “I saved 129 lives and recovered 10,000 dead bodies from Hussain Sagar Lake in the past 25 years”, he shared.

I challenge the challenge. I am not afraid of my life. If I can save more lives, I have done justice to my birth he said in that conversation with Ramesh Loganathan.

IHW Lung Health & Oncology Conference 2024: Experts Highlight Urgency of Protecting Lung Health for a Better Future

New Delhi, December 9, 2024 – The Integrated Health & Wellbeing (IHW) Council organized the Lung Health & Oncology National Conference 2024 at Ambedkar International Convention Centre on 7 December 2024, gathering esteemed speakers from government bodies, the healthcare sector, and allied organizations to address the rising crisis of lung cancer in India. The conference reiterated the urgent need for early diagnosis, equal access to healthcare services, and innovative treatment methods to tackle one of the most difficult types of cancers in the country.

 Currently, India reports 72,510 new cases of lung cancer annually with an alarming death toll of 66,279. It is one of the deadliest cancers with more than 75% patients diagnosed at late stages. Compounding this problem are smoking, pollution, and delayed screenings thus, it needs a holistic response from all stakeholders.

 The Lung Health & Oncology National Conference 2024, organized by the IHW Council, consisted an illustrious panel of experts, including Mr. Kamal Narayan, CEO of IHW Council, alongside leading medical professionals such as Dr. Saroj Das Majumder of AIIMS Bhubaneshwar, Col Rajeev Mannali of SUT Pattom Super Speciality Hospital, and Mohammed Yahya of Qure.ai. Esteemed contributors like Dr. Charu Bahl from Medgenome Labs, Dr. Moushumi Suryavanshi, Dr. Anant Mohan of AIIMS Delhi, and Col (Dr.) Shafin Babu of Command Hospital Eastern Command also shared their insights. The event featured prominent oncologists, including Dr. Sridhar P S, Dr. Belal Bin Asaf of Medanta – The Medicity, Dr. Aditya Murali of Apollo Hospitals, and Dr. Subodh Kumar of AIIMS Deoghar, alongside public health leaders like Dr. Navneet Singh of PGIMER, Vandana Mahajan of Lung Connect, Mr. Vivek Tomar of “Rise to Survive Cancer,” and Dr. Urvashi Prasad, Former Director of Niti Aayog, to discuss innovative strategies for advancing lung cancer care in India.

 Dr. Urvashi Prasad, Former Director, NITI Aayog, highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to cancer care, stating, “An effective cancer care system must focus on the patient’s physical, emotional, and social well-being. In addition to clinical treatment, we must also integrate support systems, such as mental health counseling, nutritional guidance, and strong palliative care services. These elements are often overlooked but are crucial for the betterment of quality of life and improved outcomes of the patient. Policy intervention with holistic approaches can certainly help ensure fair access of such resources to even deprived areas.”

 Discussions at the conference were also focused on the revolutionary capabilities of advanced diagnostic tools such as AI-driven radiology and molecular biomarkers. These technologies are helping clinicians diagnose lung cancer in its early stages and design specific treatment strategies based on the unique genetic makeup of the tumors.

 Dr. Saroj Das Majumder, HOD, Radiation Oncology, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, emphasized the transformative advancements in radiation therapy, stating, “The field of radiation oncology is witnessing revolutionary breakthroughs, changing how lung cancer is treated today. New techniques such as Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy and Image-Guided Radiation Therapy are making it possible for unprecedented precision, targeting tumors more easily while sparing healthy tissue in the process. Also, techniques like SBRT provide non-invasive, highly focused alternatives for localized tumors, often reducing treatment times dramatically. These innovations are also leading to better clinical outcomes and quality of life for patients.”

 Mr. Vivek Tomar, Co-founder of Rise to Survive Cancer, spoke about the critical role of survivorship and community support in the cancer care continuum, saying, “Surviving cancer extends far beyond defeating the disease. Survivors face long-term health problems, emotional challenges, and financial burdens. It is crucial to build resilient communities through education, peer support, and access to resources. Such support would be a means to ensure survivors’ sustainability after the treatment. Coordination between healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocacy groups can pave ways for sustainable well-being and access to services needed by survivors.”

 The conference discussed current cutting-edge therapeutic approaches like minimal invasive robotic-assisted surgery, radiation therapy, and the use of new combinations of drugs. Experts shared real-life experience on practical ways of implementing global guidelines on treatments in the Indian scenario wherein regional disparities and inadequate health infrastructure pose big challenges to treatment.

 The conference concluded with a powerful call to action, urging policymakers, clinicians, and patient advocates to work collaboratively to reduce the burden of lung cancer in India. Attendees emphasized the need for public awareness campaigns, early detection initiatives, and affordable treatment options to address the challenges posed by this deadly disease.

Spherule Foundation and SBI Payments Launch Groundbreaking CSR Initiative to Foster Women Entrepreneurs in Pune

Pune, December 2024 – Spherule Foundation, a pan-India non-profit organization, and SBI Payment Services Private Limited (SBI Payments), a subsidiary of State Bank of India, have joined hands to launch a transformative CSR initiative aimed at empowering 100 women entrepreneurs from marginalized communities across the Pune District. This initiative is designed to provide women with the tools, training, and support needed to establish and grow scalable and sustainable small and micro businesses. Ground-level mobilization and participant registration for this project are already in progress.

The program is designed to offer practical learning through comprehensive training on financial management, digital tools, entrepreneurship fundamentals, and business planning. Participants will also benefit from tailored financial assistance and business support to confidently launch or expand their ventures. Ongoing mentorship will be provided by field executives who will monitor progress and offer customized advice to ensure long-term stability and success. Also, This initiative will connect women to relevant markets and facilitate access to government schemes, enabling them to explore broader opportunities. To simplify essential processes, the program offers assistance in securing business licenses, e-Shram cards, ABHA cards, and banking tools such as Aadhaar and PAN cards.

While speaking about the initiative, Shri. Sujay Kumar Yadav, MD & CEO at SBI Payments, said, “We are honoured to be part of an initiative that uplifts and supports women entrepreneurs. This CSR initiative of ours is not just about providing resources; but it is about breaking barriers and achieving dreams. This collaboration with Spherule Foundation is a testament to our belief in fostering meaningful change in the society that we live in.”

Dr. Geeta Bora, Founder and Director of Spherule Foundation, expressed her excitement and said “This partnership with SBI Payments is a step towards transforming the entrepreneurial landscape for women in India. Through this project, we’re not only strengthening businesses but also creating pathways for brighter, more independent futures.”

A highlight of the initiative is the Business Presentation event, where participants will pitch their ideas to a panel of experts. This platform showcases entrepreneurial talent while providing opportunities for funding and expert guidance. The program aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on gender equality, quality education, poverty alleviation, and economic growth, aiming to create lasting community impact by fostering financial independence and resilience among women.

The Business Presentation event, where participants will present their ideas to a panel of experts, is a highlight of the program. In along with offering chances for finance and professional advice, this platform highlights the potential for entrepreneurship. In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN on gender equality, high-quality education, poverty reduction, and economic growth, the program seeks to build women’s resilience and financial independence in order to make a long-lasting difference in the society.

Spherule Foundation has a proven track record of driving social change in education, women’s empowerment, healthcare, and environmental conservation. With initiatives that have empowered over 50,000 women micro-entrepreneurs, their work has been recognized on prestigious global platforms, including Oxford University and IITs. SBI Payments, a leader in India’s digital payments ecosystem, complements this vision by fostering inclusivity, gender equality, and economic growth. Together, the two organizations are championing a shared mission to promote self-reliance among women entrepreneurs.