Category Archives: News

Global Experts Converge at 2024 International Conference to Drive Sustainable Innovation in Advanced Materials and Manufacturing

Kolkata, December 19, 2024: JIS Institute of Advanced Studies and Research (JISIASR) organised the prestigious International Conference on Advanced Materials and Manufacturing (ICAMM 2024) at the JISMSR Campus in Santragachi. The conference welcomed an illustrious lineup of global experts, including Prof. Goutam Chattopadhyay, Senior Scientist, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, USA; Prof. Dipankar Das Sarma, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, India; Prof. Józef T. Haponiuk, Gdansk University of Technology, Poland; Prof. Olivier Joubert, Université de Lorraine, France; Prof. Maya Jacob John, CSIR, South Africa; Prof. Santanu Chattopadhyay, IIT Kharagpur ; Prof. Kaushik Chatterjee, IISc Bangalore; Prof. Swagata Dasgupta, IIT Kharagpur ; Dr. Sandip Patil, Director, E-Spin Nanotech Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Atanu Singha Roy, Associate Professor, NIT Meghalaya, India; Dr. Soupitak Pal, Senior Scientist, CSIR-CGCRI, Kolkata; Dr. Pankaj Kumar Rawat, Scientist, ANRF, New Delhi; Prof. Amit Roy Chowdhury, IIEST Shibpur, India; Prof. Falguni Pati, Head (Biomed) & Associate Professor, IIT Hyderabad, India. Gracing the occasion were Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group; Padma Shri Prof. (Dr.) Ajoy Kumar Ray, Director, JISIASR; and Sardar Simarpreet Singh, Director, JIS Group.

The event emphasised the pivotal role of advanced materials in revolutionising sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices globally. Advanced materials and manufacturing have become critical pillars in shaping the future of industries in modern times. From nanotechnology enabling breakthroughs in healthcare and electronics to 3D printing revolutionising production processes with unparalleled precision and efficiency, these innovations are driving a new era of sustainability and technological advancement. As global challenges demand eco-friendly and resource-efficient solutions, the focus on cutting-edge materials and manufacturing practices is essential to addressing the needs of industries ranging from aerospace to biotechnology, ensuring a transformative impact on economies and societies worldwide.

On this occasion, Sardar Taranjit Singh, Managing Director, JIS Group, said, “ICAMM 2024 stands as an exemplification to JIS Group’s commitment for driving global innovation and knowledge exchange. By bringing together the brightest minds from academia and industry, we are not only advancing materials and manufacturing but also laying the foundation for transformative solutions that will shape the future of industries and improve lives worldwide.”

The Gut-Diabetes Connection: Can Improving Digestive Health Help Manage Diabetes

By- Dr. Urman Dhruv, Sr. Consultant Physician, HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad

Diabetes is a complex, challenging disease that requires daily management and a careful balance of diet, exercise, and often medication to keep blood sugar levels stable. For those affected worldwide, the demands of diabetes management can be overwhelming, with strict routines and lifestyle changes essential to avoid complications. While we often focus on controlling blood sugar levels through conventional methods, recent research has highlighted an unexpected ally in the fight against diabetes: gut health.

 Recent research has uncovered a fascinating link between gut health and diabetes management. It suggests that our digestive system does more than just process food—it plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar levels. This gut-diabetes connection has led to new insights on how improving gut health could be a key factor in managing diabetes more effectively.

 How Gut Health Affects Blood Sugar Regulation?
The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. These microbes help digest food, synthesize essential nutrients, and even influence immune responses. Importantly, they play a role in how the body metabolizes glucose, which is crucial for people with diabetes. Studies have shown that individuals with type 2 diabetes often have an imbalance in gut microbiota, known as dysbiosis. This imbalance can lead to inflammation and disrupt the body’s insulin sensitivity, worsening blood sugar levels.

 The gut microbiota produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which are known to support insulin sensitivity and anti-inflammatory processes. Healthy levels of SCFAs promote a well-regulated immune response and improve the gut lining’s integrity, preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. In diabetics, low levels of SCFAs have been observed, which can lead to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, worsening the condition. By improving gut health and encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria, individuals with diabetes may experience more stable blood sugar levels and improved insulin response.

 Steps to Enhance Gut Health
• Fiber-Rich Diet: Fiber-rich foods, especially those with soluble fiber like oats, chia seeds, and vegetables, act as prebiotics that feed good gut bacteria, fostering a balanced microbiota. Higher fiber intake has been associated with improved blood sugar control and can help prevent spikes.
• Fermented Foods: Fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir are rich in probiotics, which can enhance gut health. Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria that can improve microbial diversity, which has been linked to reduced insulin resistance.
• Probiotic Supplements: Although they aren’t a replacement for a healthy diet, probiotic supplements can offer targeted strains that support digestive health. It is advised to consult a healthcare professional before consuming any probiotic supplements for diabetes management.
• Reduce Processed Foods and Sugars: Processed foods and sugars can cause imbalances in gut bacteria, favoring the growth of harmful microbes and increasing inflammation. Avoiding these foods helps maintain a healthy gut and supports stable blood sugar levels.
• Staying Physically Active: Regular exercise not only benefits blood sugar control directly but also positively affects gut health by promoting bacterial diversity and improving overall metabolic function.

Kenvue India Presents Evidence-Based Report on ‘The Hydration Gap for Non-Diarrheal Illnesses’

Hyderabad, 19th December 2024: Kenvue, the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue, launches its latest evidence report on the role of fluids, electrolytes and energy (FEE) in non-diarrheal illnesses which include conditions like fevers, respiratory infections, viral illnesses, heat exhaustion, general weakness etc.

Only 3/10 physicians treat dehydration in patients with Non-Diarrheal Illnesses
While the treatment of diarrheal diseases and associated dehydration is known with established guidelines, in contrast, the management of dehydration in non-diarrheal illness was mostly overlooked. The expert panel agreed that a significant gap existed in knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) around use of fluid, electrolyte, and energy (FEE) solutions – Only 3/10 physicians recommended fluid, electrolyte, and energy (FEE) solutions to the majority of patients with non-diarrheal illnesses, thereby delaying their recovery.

An Indian Expert Panel based Delphi consensus recommendations were recently published focussed on managing dehydration associated with acute and chronic non-diarrheal illnesses in India with oral FEE. The expert panel agreed that dehydration in non-diarrheal illnesses is often overlooked and can be challenging to diagnose. The expert panel also agreed a significant gap in knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) around the use of FEE drinks to treat FEE deficits in acute non-diarrheal illnesses. Survey-led research indicated that knowledge levels on non-diarrheal dehydration and its management were moderate amongst healthcare practitioners coupled with lower recommendation of FEE solutions to address dehydration, despite their benefits, taste and convenience

In a similar KAP study undertaken with pediatricians, a majority of them rated FEE management as a medium to high level of importance in acute non-diarrheal illnesses and reinforced the importance of identifying dehydration in children encompassing symptoms like abnormal skin turgor, dryness of the tongue and eyes, capillary refill time, frequency of passing urine, and tachycardia as reliable indicators of dehydration

Faster recovery with ready-to-drink FEE formulations
The report highlights the role of ready-to-drink solutions is preferable for FEE restoration rather than plain water, coconut water, and ORS powders. Oral formulations with the right FEE balance are vital in supporting recovery from non-diarrheal illnesses. These ready-to-drink (RTDs) are preferred over plain water or other fluids as they are rich in electrolyte and energy content.

The report also revealed that 87% of physicians agreed that FEE recommendations would help to improve the speed of recovery. 98% of prescribers agreed that ready-to-drink FEE drinks were more efficacious in shortening the time for recovery as compared to non-RTD FEE drinks and that patients would recover faster if they were given written prescriptions instead of verbal advice. When these protocols are adhered to, a study stated that a majority reported improvement-feeling energized or hydrated from 20 minutes to 24 hours when a ready to drink fruit juice based electrolyte drink was used as adjuvant.

Based on a clinical study, over 80% of physicians agreed that the ready to serve electrolyte drink studied was well tolerated and clinically proven to improve hydration and energy in patients with non-diarrheal illnesses like fever and general weakness.

Commenting on the report findings, Prof. Dr. N. L. Sridhar, M.D. (Paediatrics), LLB, Professor at the Apollo Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad; Director of NEO BBC Hospital, Vidyanagar, Hyderabad; and practicing at Safe Children’s Clinic, Namalagundu Jun…

Manipal Institute of Technology Hosts Golden Reunion and Celebrates 50 Years of Legacy

Bengaluru, 19 December 2024: The Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) marked a historic occasion today by hosting the Golden Reunion of the 1965-70 and 1969-74 alumni batches, alongside a grand celebration of the institute’s transformation from Manipal Engineering College (MEC) to MIT. This milestone event not only rekindled cherished memories but also honored the remarkable journey of this prestigious institution, which has been a cornerstone of engineering excellence for decades.

The event, held at MIT, brought together alumni, faculty, and dignitaries to celebrate the rich legacy of the institute and its contributions to the field of technology and innovation. The occasion was graced by Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, as the Chief Guest, along with other esteemed faculty and alumni members including, Dr Kanthi M, Associate Director Alumni Relations, MIT Manipal; and Cdr (Dr) Anil Rana, Director, MIT Manipal among others. Dr. Sriram K. V., Associate Director, Industry Liaison Placement and Practice school welcomed the dignitaries.

The celebration at the Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) began with a heartfelt tribute to the visionary founder, Dr. Tonse Madhava Anantha Pai, through floral offerings and a moment of silence in remembrance of departed souls. The event featured a captivating cultural performance of the traditional Yakshagana dance, showcasing the rich heritage of Karnataka. Dr. Kanthi M., Associate Director of Alumni Relations, presented an engaging overview of MIT’s remarkable journey and achievements, followed by a nostalgic video chronicling the institute’s illustrious history. Distinguished alumni, Shri. Ranga Pai Tonse and Shri. Dayashankar Shetty were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to society. Alumni shared heartfelt reminiscences, recounting cherished memories and enduring friendships from their golden days at MIT. Senior faculty and leadership, including Dr. Somashekara Bhat, Joint Director of MIT, MAHE addressed the gathering, emphasizing the institution’s unwavering focus on academic excellence, innovation, and its enduring legacy of shaping future leaders.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education applauded the transformative journey of MIT and its dedication to fostering excellence. “MIT’s evolution from MEC to a globally recognized institute is a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation, education, and the holistic development of its students. This celebration reflects the spirit of camaraderie and achievement that defines MIT. This celebration is not just a reunion but a reflection of the enduring bond between the institution and its alumni, whose achievements have brought pride to the MIT community. As we honor our past and look towards the future, MIT continues to be a beacon of inspiration, shaping leaders and driving progress on a global scale”, he said.

“MIT’s success is built on a foundation of innovation, excellence, and visionary leadership. The institute has achieved remarkable milestones, fostering a culture of academic brilliance and groundbreaking research” said, Cdr. Dr. Anil Rana, Director, MIT, MAHE, Manipal.

The event also served as a platform to strengthen ties between alumni and the institute, showcasing how the MIT community continues to drive innovation and progress.

Dr. Krishna Prakash, Assistant Director, Alumni, Public & International Relations delivered the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to all who made this day a success.

Hikvision Millimeter Wave Body Scanning Security System: A New Dimension in Security

Today’s security threats have become more quickly and effectively controlled thanks to developing technologies. In this context, one of the technologies that has come to the fore in recent years is millimeter wave (mmWave) body scanners. Hikvision’s innovative systems in this field take security measures to the highest level and enable the detection and prevention of threats. This article will detail what a millimeter wave body scanner is, how it works, the security threats it can detect, and its areas of use.

 What is a Millimeter Wave Body Scanner?
A millimeter wave body scanner is a device used at security checkpoints and is a system that can detect metal, plastic, ceramic, and similar objects on people. The term “millimeter wave” refers to radio waves in the frequency range of approximately 30 to 300 GHz, which is between microwave and infrared waves of the electromagnetic spectrum. These wavelengths can detect hidden objects by scanning not only through clothing but also in depth. Hikvision’s mmWave scanners can provide high-resolution scanning and blur private areas to protect people’s privacy. This enables security processes to be completed more quickly and effectively by focusing only on objects that may pose a security threat.

 Millimeter Wave Body Scanner Working Principle
Millimeter wave technology is based on the reflection of electromagnetic waves on the human body and clothes. The device sends high-frequency waves and receives the reflections that hit the body and return, and analyzes these signals to create images. These images are interpreted by special software and abnormal objects or objects that may be a threat are determined.

 Passive Operation: Millimeter wave scanners work by evaluating only the reflections. In this way, it provides a safe scan without using ionizing radiation such as X-ray.
High Resolution: The locations and sizes of suspicious objects can be determined with high-resolution images.
Fast Scanning Time: The scanning process is usually completed in seconds. This provides a great advantage, especially in areas with high human traffic.
What Can Be Detected with a Millimeter Wave Body Scanner?
Millimeter wave technology can effectively detect objects hidden under clothing. These devices can identify metal and non-metal objects, allowing them to be used against a wide range of threats.
Here are some of the items that can be detected:
Metal Objects: Guns, knives, or other dangerous metal objects.
Non-Metal Objects: Materials that metal detectors cannot detect, such as explosives, drugs, ceramic knives, or plastic weapons.
Explosives: Ability to detect concealed or worn explosives.
Other Prohibited Items: Electronic devices or any object prohibited in designated areas.
New Standards in Security

Key Features:
• Non-Contact Full Body Scanner
• Advance Milimeter wave Imaging Technology
• AI based location detection
• High Throughput
• Privacy Protection
• Networking Capability

Hikvision’s millimeter wave body scanning security system provides an effective solution to meet public and private security requirements. Fast, reliable and easy to use, this technology makes security measures more effective and efficient. In the face of the increasing variety and complexity of security threats, millimeter wave technology offers a strong layer of protection for personal security, public security and private property security.
Integrating this technology into the security strategies of institutions and organizations is an important step to provide a safer environment.

In A Third And Final Government Approval, Philippines Introduces Landmark Medical Education Reform for Indian Students to Practice Medicine

19th December 2024: In the third and final government approval, the Philippines government in its groundbreaking move, approved in the house amendments in their Philippine Medical Act, for foreign nationals to practice in Philippines. The new amendment in the Philippines, The Medical Act offers Indian students a clear path to practice medicine in the Philippines, responding to the growing demand for high-quality medical education among Indian aspirants. The reform addresses the growing aspirations of Indian students seeking high-quality, globally recognised medical education at affordable costs.

The new law, passed with overwhelming support in the House of Representatives (184-3-0), replaces the decades-old Medical Act of 1959. It introduces sweeping changes, including the creation of the Medical Education Council and the Professional Regulatory Board of Medicine. These institutions aim to elevate academic standards, promote ethical practices, and ensure the Philippines remains competitive in global medical education.

Unlike many other countries that offer educational opportunities but restrict practice rights for foreign graduates, the Philippines’ decision is a game-changer. Indian students graduating from CHED-accredited colleges, upon completing their internships, can now register and practice medicine in the Philippines. Their qualifications will also align with Indian Medical Commission standards, providing seamless pathways to practice in India or even globally.

Speaking about this transformative initiative, Mr. Kadwin Pillai, Managing Director of Transworld Educare and Director of Kings International Medical Academy, remarked, “This reform is not just a milestone for the Philippines but also an indication to the country’s commitment to strengthening its educational ties with India. It positions the Philippines as Asia’s leading hub for medical education, offering unparalleled opportunities for students to become globally competent doctors.”

For years, the Philippines has stood out as a top destination for medical education, particularly for Indian students. The country’s English-based instruction, US-aligned curriculum, and affordable tuition fees have drawn thousands of aspirants annually. Among 64 accredited medical schools and globally recognised residency programs, the Philippines offers a rare combination of quality education and affordability.

Currently, around 2,000 Indian students choose the Philippines each year for their medical studies. The country’s cost-effective education, coupled with low living expenses and a culturally welcoming environment, makes it an increasingly attractive choice for Indian families seeking world-class opportunities for their children.

The Philippine Medical Act highlights the country’s vision of nurturing global healthcare leaders while strengthening its ties with India. By bridging educational and professional opportunities, the Philippines is not only empowering students but also taking a bold step toward addressing global health challenges. This landmark reform is set to leave a lasting impact on the future of medical education and practice.

Panasonic and T-Hub select four start-ups to drive adoption of the cost-effective wired communication technology, Nessum WIRE, in India

Hyderabad, India – 19th December 2024 – Panasonic, a global leader in innovative technologies, in association with T-Hub, the world’s largest innovation campus and India’s premier startup incubator, announced four start-ups – Ayka Control Systems, GoVidyouth Mobility, PureLogic Labs India, Xeeed IO as the finalists of the Innovation Challenge. The finalists will work closely with India Innovation Center (IIC) and Panasonic Holdings Corporation (PHD) – Nessum teams for adoption and commercialization of the cost-effective wired communication technology, Nessum WIRE, in India.

The Innovation Challenge was initiated in September 2024 and startups from India and beyond were invited to leverage Nessum Technology. T-Hub played a pivotal role in scouting and evaluating 197 innovative startups that applied for the program, conducting roadshows and leveraging its extensive ecosystem to identify the most promising solutions. As a result, eight high-potential startups were shortlisted for Demo Day. These shortlisted start-ups made their final pitch presentation to both the teams culminating the Innovation Challenge. And the following startups will get an opportunity to collaborate and work with Panasonic.

Ayka Control Systems is at the forefront of clean energy innovation, specializing in EV charging solutions.

GoVidyouth Mobility Pvt Ltd is a deep-tech startup committed to making electric mobility accessible and affordable in emerging markets.

PureLogic Labs India Pvt. Ltd. is dedicated to improving air quality monitoring through innovative solutions.

Xeeed IO specializes in designing and deploying Industry 4.0 and 5.0 technologies for manufacturing and energy sectors.

“I would like to congratulate all the start-ups who were shortlisted and we at Panasonic, are looking forward to work with finalists of the challenge” said Mr. Saijo Hiroshi, Head of Business Development Office, at Panasonic Holdings. “In line with Panasonic’s mission, we’ve always kept our customers at the centre. The Innovation Challenge has provided us with the necessary platform to leverage the talent of Indian start-ups. The finalists will partner with both India team and us in Japan, to build innovative solutions for our enterprise customers using Nessum WIRE Technology. We look forward to capitalizing on the innovation and provide customized solutions to India and global markets,” he further added.

“Nessum WIRE is an advanced Japanese communication technology. It is a plug-n-play, cost-effective, solution for data communication over existing wires. In a rapidly growing economy like India, the Nessum WIRE Technology is of utmost significance as enterprise customers do not prefer disturbing their existing network infrastructure, however, still want to address communication issues in remote or inaccessible areas such as basements, manufacturing plants, etc. Alongside T-Hub, we at Panasonic, have carefully evaluated all the short-listed start-ups and identified Ayka Control Systems, GoViyouth Mobility, PureLogic Labs India, Xeeed IO to partner with us. We look forward to collaborating with them to introduce these customized communication solutions to the market” said Mr. Manish Misra, the Chief Innovation Officer, at Panasonic Life Solutions India.

Sujit Jagirdar, CEO of T-Hub, says, “The Innovation Challenge with Panasonic showcases the incredible synergy that emerges when startups and global corporations come together to solve real-world challenges. At T-Hub, we are proud to facilitate this collaboration, empowering startups to unlock their potential and create impactful solutions. Congratulations to the winners for showcasing the transformative potential of Nessum HD-PLC technology. This partnership is a testament to the role of startups in driving innovation and shaping the future of communication technology. We look forward to seeing these solutions revolutionize the industry and pave the way for scalable, sustainable advancements in India and beyond.”

Memory foam is 58 years old – The Sleep Company launches RetireMemoryFoam campaign to raise awareness and urges consumers to upgrade their sleep with Gen Z SmartGRID technology

Mumbai, 19th December 2024: For six decades, the world has embraced countless technological advancements, yet millions of consumers still rely on 58-year-old memory foam. Innovation is taking over the world head on, modern technology is in your phone, car and just about everywhere. Modern sleep solutions are here to revolutionise the world of comfort for you making it the most important factor for healthier lifestyle changes. The Sleep Company (TSC), India’s leading comfort-tech brand, has revolutionized the industry with its patented SmartGRID technology. Through its latest campaign #RetireMemoryFoam, it gives a wake-up call to not live under the rock with outdated Memory Foam and choose SmartGRID technology as your comfort partner.

Despite advancements in sleep technology, many people in India remain unaware of the new innovations disrupting this space. The campaign is aimed to educate and create awareness about how such advancements can significantly improve sleep quality. Acknowledging that we spend nearly one-third of our lives sleeping in bed, approximately 26 years on average, TSC’s new campaign emphasizes the need for mattress technology to keep pace with modern advancements. Memory foam, invented in 1966, has remained unchanged ever since, rendering it outdated and increasingly redundant.

Interestingly, memory foam was originally invented by NASA as cushioning for astronauts and was not designed with sleep in mind, making it unsuitable for truly restful sleep. Unlike memory foam, the SmartGRID is modern Gen Z technology, free from common issues such as breaking, sagging, and heating. SmartGRID, a revolutionary sleep technology developed by ex-DRDO scientists after years of rigorous research and trials, offers the perfect balance of comfort and support. The Sleep Company proudly pioneers India’s first and only SmartGRID mattress, redefining sleep quality like never before.

Conceptualized by Steve Priya, the plot of TSC’s ‘Retire Memory Foam’ campaign starts with a couple who cannot sleep and are shocked by an old man’s voice coming from a mattress that narrates its story. It highlights how technologies like phones and computers have changed over decades, while memory foam remains the same. The campaign aims to educate people about the importance of advanced sleep technology. This engaging narrative promotes consumers to prioritize sleep quality and make smarter choices through innovative solutions like SmartGRID. The outdated memory foam mattress urges people to let it retire, as sticking with it feels like living in the past. Instead, it inspires them to make a smarter choice by welcoming the innovative SmartGRID mattress into their homes.

Memory Foam versus SmartGRID:

Priyanka Salot, Co-founder of The Sleep Company, said, “At The Sleep Company, we identified significant gaps in sleep solutions; traditional memory foam could not provide firmness and softness simultaneously, it had poor cooling abilities, and it did not adapt to individual body types. We defined comfort and sleep quality using our patented SmartGRID technology, featuring 2500+ air channels for superior breathability and adaptive support for every body type. The ‘#RetireMemoryFoam’ campaign actively promotes people to outlive the old and outdated sleep solution technologies and embrace innovation that impacts their overall well-being.”

Ripal Chopda, Chief Marketing Officer of The Sleep Company added, “With the ‘Retire Memory Foam’ campaign, we want to challenge the conventional way of thinking and encourage consumers to rethink their sleep solutions. Our mission is to educate and empower people to make smarter, more informed choices when it comes to their sleep. SmartGRID technology is the perfect solution for anyone looking to experience unparalleled comfort and support. It’s time to move forward with sleep technology into the future and leave behind the old ways.”

Priya Pardiwalla, Chief Creative Officer of Steve Priya said, “Today, everyone’s constantly upgrading their laptops, mobiles, watches, and other gadgets. We wanted users to also upgrade from their memory foam mattress to The Sleep Company’s SmartGRID technology, which is the latest in sleep science. While researching for this campaign, we discovered that the memory foam mattress was invented way back in 1966. It’s a 58-year-old technology. The timing, the year was perfect for the retirement of the memory foam mattress.”

Boosting creative economy of Meghalaya, Hello Meghalaya organises conclave

New Delhi, December 19th, 2024: The Hello Meghalaya Conclave took place in Shillong, serving as a vibrant gathering for the cultural community. As Meghalaya’s indigenous OTT platform, Hello Meghalaya offers invaluable opportunities to filmmakers, artists, and content creators. The event was organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya.

Since the launch of Hello Meghalaya in 11th July 2024, the app had seen an overwhelming response with over 3.14 lakhs total app downloads and 2 lakh registrations in just a span of 5 months, 281K total number of views, 7.33K total content downloads, and 5.05K total content shared. The top-performing content includes Ka Daw, Thong Iong Nga, Ehrang, Ka Chithi, and Papa, with Thadlaskein, Laskein, and Mawlai being among the top regions for views. Hello Meghalaya also boasts a strong social media presence, with nine thousand YouTube subscribers, five thousand Instagram followers, and over four thousand Facebook followers, all achieved within six months.

Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, expressed his pride in the success of Hello Meghalaya as an OTT platform launched by a state government. He shared an experience from his visit to Nongnah, a village in Southwest Khasi Hills located over three hours from Shillong. During his interaction with farmers and youth in the village, the youth showcased the Hello Meghalaya app, highlighting its impressive reach even in remote areas.

The conclave showcased the video presentation of the journey of Hello Meghalaya over the span of 5 months. Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister launched the Guidelines of Film Grant Booklet, to encourage film production and to promote the use of local language a corpus fund has been created by the Government of Meghalaya to provide financial assistance to filmmakers. The corpus fund is based on 4 categories- A, B, C and D. Under Category A, nominated filmmakers will receive up to Rs 35 lakhs to produce one feature film within a calendar year. Category B offers up to Rs 25 lakhs for feature films, while Category C provides up to Rs 20 lakhs for web series, disbursed per episode, with a minimum of 10 episodes, each 30-40 minutes long. Category D supports emerging filmmakers from Meghalaya with up to Rs 5 lakhs to create short films.

Following the launch of the booklet, sanction letters amounting to Rs 35 lakh each were distributed to three prominent filmmakers of the state – Dominic Sangma, Pradip Kurbah, and Simi Khongtiang on a nomination basis.

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K Sangma, praised Hello Meghalaya OTT platform and said “in the last few months, six months or so, we have really been able to push this, you know, to the next level. I should say we are very happy with the kind of response we’re getting. We are very happy that today we are launching, in fact, the new guidelines for the film production, again, an area which I am very, very keen to promote again. There are so many programs that the state government is running today to support the youth, and we want you to take advantage of that, because we want to give you that platform. We want to give you that opportunity.”

He spoke about the brimming talent in Meghalaya and the government’s commitment to nurture their growth. Recognising this evolution, the government established a robust ecosystem through Hello Meghalaya to empower local producers and content creators.

Hon’ble Chief Minister said that the Guidelines of Film Grant Booklet launched today is a testament to commitment to supporting filmmakers in their endeavours providing a necessary framework for financial assistance and ensuring that creative minds have the resources they need to bring their visions to life.

The financial assistance of Rs 35 lakh each to the three selected filmmakers and the Corpus fund will encourage the production of original content, including films, web series, and short films that promote the state’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local languages, he added.

The conclave featured an award ceremony honouring storytellers across categories like films, web series, and documentaries, highlighting the importance of diverse narratives. Winners in each category received a cash prize of Rs 25,000. Additionally, five beneficiaries from the state were recognized with Rs 10,000 each as a token of appreciation for their contributions to the app’s success.

Speaking about handholding the film makers, Shri Paul Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Tourism Minister of Meghalaya said that the government looks forward to the day that they should be in a position to stand on their own and in 2025 they look forward to seeing Shillong’ State Central Library to be able to have a multiplex to screen movies.

Lyngdoh added that the platform will serve as a window into our culture, stories, and people, embodying the spirit of “by the people, for the people, to the people.” The Hon’ble Tourism Minister lauded the movie ‘Rapture” stating it as “a masterpiece that not only placed Meghalaya on the global cinematic map but also demonstrated the immense talent and potential of our filmmakers.”

Earlier, the conclave featured the screening of Dominic Sangma’s latest and critically acclaimed award winning ‘Rapture’ (Rimdogittanga). Panel discussions were also held which laid emphasis on the potential of Indigenous Storytelling in Meghalaya. The panellist included prominent filmmakers from the state: Dominic Sangma, Simi Khongtiang, Commander Shangpliang and Lucky D Kharsati.

Another important panel discussion was carried out in the conclave emphasising on The Role of Cinema in Bridging Cultural and Regional Divides where Kunal Sharma who is currently writing a film that’s set in north-eastern part of India said he will come back to Meghalaya for research, adding it is God’s gift to come to Meghalaya. He did not reveal much about the movie. According to him, cinema can play a very big role in someone’s life. The panellist included Nationally renowned filmmakers: Dinesh Shenoy, Kunal Sharma, Pradeep Reddy, Manish Gaekwad and Pradip Kurbah.

Dinesh Shenoy said that the people will be curious to know about Shillong and the state through Rapture. Pradeep Reddy said cinema is a wonderful medium to bridge cultures between states. Pradip Kurbah said film makers within the Northeastern region should also watch each other’s movies. He further said that film makers doing a film on the region should go through proper channel and sources, not to make a film based on assumptions. Dinesh Shenoy said that there should be a single window to get clearance for location. Manish Gaekwad spoke about empowering locals to tell nice stories and tell stories as locally as possible.

Ola Consumer announces pan-India expansion of Ola Food on ONDC, launches quick food delivery ‘Dash’ in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, December 19, 2024: Ola Consumer today announced the pan-India expansion of Ola Food and the launch of Dash, its 10 minute quick food delivery service, now operational in Bengaluru, further strengthening its mission to redefine India’s food delivery landscape. With these launches, Ola Consumer sets new benchmarks in convenience, affordability and speed, by combining scale, efficiency and savings, and leveraging its deep integration with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

Ola Food

With the expansion, Ola Food will now be available across 100 cities. With savings of up to 50% on food orders, the platform offers ‘Best Deal on Every Meal’ with a superior delivery experience free of cost without the hassle of subscriptions. Customers can earn 10 times more OlaCoins by ordering from Ola Food and redeem them across Ola Consumer’s offerings.

Dash

Ola Consumer unveiled Dash—a breakthrough offering for freshly prepared food delivered in just 10 minutes. To ensure speed and reliability, Dash delivers from a curated selection of nearby restaurants. This service is currently being piloted in Bengaluru & Ola will soon be expanding it to other cities.

Bhavish Aggarwal, Chairman & Managing Director, Ola Consumer, said, “India’s quick commerce landscape is at a pivotal moment, driven by technology and ever evolving consumer needs. With the Pan-India expansion of Ola Food and the launch of Dash in Bengaluru, on ONDC, we’re offering a faster, more affordable, and seamless food delivery experience. This expansion reflects our commitment to democratising commerce, leveraging ONDC’s open network to make quality services accessible to all. We are confident that, as we scale, we will emerge as the largest buyer app on the platform, continuously transforming convenience for a billion Indians.”

Ola Consumer has been making efforts to redefine the retail and commerce journey for consumers in India. At its annual Sankalp event, Ola Consumer announced a slew of technology-led initiatives, aimed at revolutionising consumer services. The company unveiled its fully automated dark store prototype to revolutionise warehousing operations and supercharge the commerce supply chain.

Further, Ola Consumer will also deploy 1 lakh 2W EVs in the next two years to drive electrification in ride-hailing. Additionally, the company announced Ola Loyalty Program – OlaCoin, which will reward end-users for every transaction they make on the Ola platform across mobility, e-commerce, and logistics services.