Category Archives: News

The Role of AI in Personalizing Education: A Deep Dive into Industry 5.0’s Impact on Higher Learning

By- Prof. Supriya Pattanayak, Vice Chancellor, Centurion University, Odisha

 Education in the 21st century has moved away from merely being a process of rote learning and then writing verbatim to holistic education where the focus has shifted to skill-based education. This metamorphosis has enabled the students to stay abreast with the needs of the industry and become job ready once they pass out from university. With changing time Artificial Intelligence has also played a key role in the education system. We are witnessing the application of artificial intelligence in evaluation, and this is increasing even as we speak. This AI-based assessment reduces subjectivity and saves teachers’ time, leaving teachers with more time to devote to lesson planning and instruction. When AI begins to replace instructors, though, that is a cause for alarm. Since education requires face-to-face connection, I think we should rather not tamper with this system.

Teachers and educationists understand that the future belongs to AI and will become more pervasive and integrate into more facets of our life. The worry that AI would eliminate jobs is also a result of this. However, in order to improve things, humans will need to stay on top of it and use technology. The workforce of the future must be prepared for the application of AI into more realms. And to do so, we need classes that get students ready for whatever the future may bring.

Earlier there were programmers and coders who would spend hours, days and even months to create programs. Today with the help of AI one can do so within a short span of time. Engineers and graduates of computer science used to do be the best pick to do this laborious and mind consuming task. Now Python programming makes it possible to complete tasks quickly by just dragging and dropping, something that was unthinkable just a few years ago.

Thus, academic institutions must adapt their curricula to the times and take into consideration the skill set that may be needed in the future. It is pertinent to include AI not just in teaching but also in course curriculum. Understanding artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and other related technologies is crucial. During B Tech courses, these areas are offered as specialisation subjects or as distinct streams. By studying the design, analysis, gathering, and interpretation of numerical data, data science aids in the comprehension and extraction of patterns from the data and technology. Data analysis is done utilising big data tools like HADOOP, ETL tools, Python data visualisation, spectral image analysis, and AI/ML applications.

To be future ready, students can opt for graduate programs that can help them land jobs as Software developers, database administrators,cloud computing engineers, metaverse programmers,data architects, digital data visualisers, data ecologists, clinical and pharmaceutical analysts, data technologies specialists, digital manufacturing engineers, financial modellers, full-stack developers, and machine learning engineers are among the professions. One can choose to specialise in any of them according to their specialization.

Another area that will need more qualified workers in the future is cyber security. Every person on the planet has access to the internet, where they socialise, conduct business, and provide a range of services. But criminals have been doing this and will continue to look for ways to commit fraud or use personal information to extort others. Students that take a cyber security course learn how to defend computer operating systems, keep an eye on systems, reduce dangers, and secure networks and data from online attacks.

Courses like RemoteInfrastructure Management enables students to manage computers and get hands ontraining with wired and Wi-Fi protocols. When such courses have CISCO certifications (CCNAand CCNP) and EC-Council certifications, it creates Network Security Engineer,Cyber Security Architect, Cyber Security Analyst, Cyber Security Manager, Information Security Manager,Chief InformationSecurity Officer (CISO), Cyber Security Engineer etc.

Besides, since enterprises are quickly adopting Cloud Technology, and using the same in different ways, its penetration is predicted to increase significantly over the next ten years. Students can be prepared to be useful in the future by taking a course that gives them the opportunity to establish up software management enterprises using cloud technologies. Along with managing their own data centres, universities are collaborating with AWS to give students the necessary skill set. Future cloud engineers, architects, consultants, DevOps engineers, security engineers, data engineers, full-stack developers, cloud system administrators, and user interface developers will all be completely prepared by this.

In the coming years, an undergraduate education in software as a service (SAAS) is probably going to be in high demand. With the use of CMS technologies, such a course can assist students in learning both software engineering and project management techniques. Software Requirement Specifications (SRS) will be written, tested, and deployed by them. Since this is a constantly evolving market, one must remain alert and adjust to new platforms. You can work as an applications developer, cyber security analyst, game developer, or information systems manager with a SAAS degree.

Other emerging industries that can guarantee a student never loses a job are mobile applications and the internet of things. The secret is to be creative and open to trying new things. You can expect to succeed when you’re prepared to take on the obstacles that life and evolving technologies present. Furthermore, rather of being a barrier, AI will develop into a tool that helps further establish a road map for success.

2024: A Year of Surprises & Success for TV actors

As 2024 comes to a close, &TV actors reflect on a year filled with career milestones, personal achievements, and unforgettable moments. From breakthrough roles to personal joys, 2024 has been a remarkable journey for Aayudh Bhanushali (young Atal in Atal), Amit Bhardwaj (Mewa in Bheema), Himani Shivpuri (Katori Amma in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Rohitashv Gour (Manmohan Tiwari in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai). Aayudh Bhanushali, who plays young Atal in Atal, shares, “This year has been nothing short of amazing for me. Playing young Atal Bihari Vajpayee in &TV’s Atal is a dream come true. Portraying such a legendary figure comes with great responsibility, but it’s also an incredible honour. What makes this role even more special is that this is my third time playing the on-screen son of Neha Joshi ma’am, with whom I share a beautiful bond. Every day on the set of Atal is an exciting adventure, filled with learning and fun. This role has elevated my career, and I’m grateful to the entire team for believing in me.” Amit Bhardwaj, who plays Mewa in Bheema, says, “2024 has truly changed my life. After years of playing side roles and facing numerous rejections, I finally got my big break as the lead in Bheema. This opportunity feels like the culmination of years of hard work and self-belief. The journey was tough, with many moments of doubt, but every small role I played helped build my resilience as an actor. Being given the role of Mewa has been both a challenge and a reward. This role has not only boosted my career but also allowed me to connect deeply with the audience.”

 Himani Shivpuri, who plays Katori Amma in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, adds, “2024 has been a year I will never forget as I celebrated 40 years in the entertainment industry. Looking back at my journey — from theatre to television and films — is surreal. Every step has brought challenges, triumphs, and countless memories that have shaped me as both an artist and a person. This year has been professionally fulfilling, as I’ve taken on roles that challenge and excite me. The love and appreciation from the audience have fuelled my passion, and I still feel the same excitement stepping onto a set as I did 40 years ago. Personally, this milestone represents my dedication and perseverance. I am deeply grateful for the friendships and experiences that have shaped my journey. Here’s to many more years of creating magic on screen.” Rohitashv Gour, who portrays Manmohan Tiwari in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, shares, “This year has been a year like no other, both in my career and personal life. In 2024, my daughter Giti made her debut in the entertainment industry, and the best part is that we’re working together in the film! Watching Giti grow up with a passion for acting has been emotional and inspiring. Sharing the screen with her is an experience I never imagined. She brings a fresh energy to every scene, and I must admit, I’ve learned a lot from her! This journey together has strengthened our bond as father and daughter, and as co-actors. I’m incredibly proud of her dedication to her craft, and I can’t wait for the audience to see her talent. This year has truly been a blessing in every way.”

Protoplanet and SIA-India Ink Partnership to Accelerate Space Innovation and Skill Development

New Delhi, 5th December 2024: SIA-India, an association for the space industry and Protoplanet have entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster innovative research and capacity building at universities and institutes in the area of astrobiology, planetary sciences, microgravity, climate studies. This partnership marks a significant step toward advancing India’s space exploration ecosystem while promoting responsible innovation and global collaboration.

The exchange of MoU ceremony takes place at the prestigious Indo-Pacific Space and Earth Conference (IPSEC) 2024, between Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri President SIA-India and Dr. Siddharth Pandey, Director of Protoplanet. The ceremony was held in the presence of Mr. Amarjeet Singh Takhi, Consul General of India in Western Australia, Mr. Anil Prakash, Director General of SIA-India, alongside other dignitaries and industry leaders. This significant collaboration aims to accelerate international cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region.

SIA-India, a leading not-for-profit space sector association, is dedicated to accelerating industry growth and driving collaborations across civil, commercial, and defence domains. Protoplanet hosts a network of international experts uniting to provide a purpose-driven training and immersive platform focused on Climate and Space Exploration training for universities, registered in Bengaluru, India.

The MoU outlines several key objectives:

1. Research and Innovation Ecosystem: Collaborating on interdisciplinary projects at universities, startups and research institutes focusing on microgravity studies, planetary sciences, space robotics, and terrestrial analogues

2. Knowledge Exchange and Capacity Building: Hosting joint workshops, specialized training, and creating platforms for knowledge sharing and student engagement.

3. Technology Development and Commercialization: Driving innovation in space technologies and facilitating industry partnerships to bring research outcomes to application.

4. Policy and International Collaboration: Advocating for a supportive policy framework and fostering global partnerships in space exploration and research.

Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri, President of SIA-India, remarked, “This MoU embodies our commitment to creating a dynamic and innovative space ecosystem in India by leveraging our policy influence and collaborating with visionary partners like Protoplanet.”

Dr. Siddharth Pandey, Director of Protoplanet , added, “We are thrilled to partner with SIA-India to advance space research and education while empowering the next generation of innovators in the Indian space sector.”

This collaboration will remain in effect until the conclusion of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2028, serving as a robust platform for capacity building and industry-academia partnerships in space exploration.

ROHL Expands Presence with Regenta Inn Downtown, First Hotel in Raipur’s Growing Hospitality Market

Bengaluru, 05 December 2024

After introducing “Regenta Place Jaipur” to shake up the value-driven midscale market and carve out a unique niche for millennials and Generation Z, The renowned hospitality chain, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL), has expanded in the state of Chhattisgarh with the addition of Regenta Inn, Downtown Raipur, another property in the same line of offerings. The announcement was made today. With its utilitarian layout, smart use of technology, and minimalist Indo-Western decor, the Regenta Inn, Downtown Raipur aims to attract a diverse range of guests including young, daring adventurers who value experiences over luxury. Authentic, local essence and experiences are the property’s forte, and it promises to cater to value-driven, budget-conscious guests without breaking the bank.

Chander K Baljee, Chairman and Managing Director of ROHL, said “In the current landscape of growing influence of Generation Z and Millennials on vacation tastes, ROHL has made it a priority to fill a service gap in the mid-tier market. We are dedicated to adapting to the changing demands of all types of tourists. Generation Z and Millennials, who are shaping the hospitality and tourism industries, see travel as a means of self-discovery and expression. At Regenta Inn Raipur we have gone to great lengths to ensure our offerings are synched, streamlined and simplified to satisfy the uniquely discriminating wanderlust of the new age travellers. The new property is more than just a place to stay; it embodies the aspirations of today’s dynamic youth through thoughtful design that incorporates vibrant spaces that reflect their personalities and an end-to-end technological infrastructure that makes them feel at home.

“This also happens to be our very first foray into the state of Chhattisgarh and resonates our commitment to keep expanding and reinventing in order to remain relevant in an industry poised for transformation.”, He further added.

There are a total of 31 rooms available at the Regenta Inn Raipur, so every guest may relax during their stay. Whether you’re in town for work or play, the hotel has you covered with first-rate amenities including the Orchid Meeting & Event Hall, an ideal venue for conferences, social events, and theme parties. To make sure that clients’ events go off without a hitch, the expert crew is there to help them at every turn. As an example of the in-house dining alternatives, there is PINXX, a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves small, entertaining snacks all day long and provides areas where guests may work while they eat. Mix BAR is the place to go for love of nightlife and networking over some great food, drinks and lively music.

Regenta Inn is ideally situated for exploring the rich cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh, known for its stunning temples and beautiful waterfalls. With proximity to the railway station, which is just 200 meters away from Regenta Inn, the property is also conveniently located only 15.5 km from the airport.

Guests can easily access nearby attractions, including Purkhauti Muktangan, Nandanvan Jungle Safari, Champaran, Rajiv Lochan Temple, and Jatalgat Rani. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Regenta Inn in Raipur. Whether for wildlife travellers, family holidays, or religious tourism. Regenta Inn is strategically located to cater to all types of tourists, especially young travel enthusiasts.

Priyank Kharge Reveals Karnataka’s Vision for India’s First Circular Economy Policy at Propagate 2024

Bengaluru 5th December 2024: Propagate 2024, the annual flagship event of Brigade REAP, India’s pioneering real estate accelerator program with a focus on PropTech, was inaugurated by Sri. Priyank Kharge, Hon. Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Science and Technology, who emphasised that the government and the real estate sector should work together to create a sustainable India.

In his special address, Sri. Priyank Kharge, Hon. Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka said, “India’s real estate sector contributes around 7.3% of the GDP and it is set to grow to $1 trillion in revenue by 2030. Karnataka has tremendous real estate potential and Bengaluru is poised to lead this growth with proptech emerging as a catalyst for that growth. We are at the right time to create platforms where industry, the real estate sector and government come together to work towards and create the right policies for the sector. The government of Karnataka is working on India’s first ever circular economic policy, under which we will ensure that 20% of all construction material will be mandated to be sustainable. The world is looking at India and they’re looking specifically at Karnataka, which has great policy, great talent, a great ecosystem, a great incubation system and a great beyond Bengaluru policy, but the need of the hour is grade A commercial buildings. The government is committed to working more closely with the Proptech sector to build a more sustainable India.”

Delivering the inaugural address, Nirupa Shankar, Joint Managing Director, Brigade Group said, “The PropTech landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation. Technology is intricately woven into every aspect of real estate development, from project planning and design to construction management and building operations. It’s not just about speed and efficiency anymore; safety and sustainability are paramount. We understand that real estate development is inevitable, but it’s up to us to ensure it happens in a way that safeguards our environment and builds smarter cities for the future.”

Delivering the keynote address, Amit Kumar, Senior Executive Vice President, Kotak Bank said, “Emerging technology is the future of real estate in India. Some of the key pain areas in the real estate sector are demand for technology driven agility, longer onboarding processes, complex cash flows across multiple stakeholders and fragmented regulations across state and local levels. From a banking perspective, we need to leverage India’s tech stack for simplification of KYC and documentation using Aadhar and Digi Locker integrations for faster validation of buyer credentials, seamless access to financial data for credit assessment and esign enabled smart contract for lease agreements and project tenders. Blockchain technology can play a vital role in transparent and tamper-proof property transactions, land registration and tokenization of property ownership. AI can be used to leverage transaction data for better credit assessment of buyers and developers, virtual property tours and customer queries. Today, 62% of value-based transactions in India flow through UPI. This shift, from P2P dominance to a B2B and B2C ecosystem, holds immense potential for real estate. Faster transactions, lower costs, and a secure environment created by the digital identity stack, these are game changers. The future of real estate is intertwined with the advancements in the digital landscape, and with UPI at the forefront, this future is closer than ever.”

Propagate 2024 also witnessed panel discussions involving industry captains, startup leaders, and leading bankers. At the event, the graduation of Brigade REAP’s Cohort 16 was also held. Over 500 delegates from across industry and academia attended Propagate 2024.

Kuku FM Teams Up with Dulquer Salmaan to Elevate the ‘Art of Storytelling’ in Groundbreaking Campaign

Bangalore, Dec 5, 2024: Kuku FM, India’s leading storytelling platform, has redefined the art of storytelling with its latest campaign featuring Dulquer Salmaan as its brand ambassador for South India. The partnership aims to captivate listeners across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana bringing regional stories and audiobooks closer to the hearts of millions.

Dulquer Salmaan, a household name known for his versatility and appeal prominently among Southern audiences, embodies Kuku FM’s values of authenticity, innovation, and customer-centricity. His deep connection to storytelling, nurtured from childhood, shines through in Kuku FM’s new TVC, where he recalls the comforting tales told by his grandmother. “With Kuku FM, I’m excited to revisit the roots of storytelling and invite listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inspiration with their vast genres and collections with Kuku FM,” Salmaan shared.

In a first-of-its-kind campaign, Kuku FM’s TVC is produced in Tamil and Malayalam, with dubbing in Kannada, Telugu and Hindi to resonate across India’s linguistic diversity and cultural richness. The multimedia campaign, titled “Redefining the Art of Storytelling,” will be launched in two phases, beginning with a social media campaign before expanding to television, OTT platforms, and offline channels. With content available in eight languages and a vast range of genres, Kuku FM is paving the way for storytelling that speaks to every mood, interest, and region.

“Storytelling is an art that transcends time, culture & language barriers,” said Lal Chand Bisu, Co-Founder and CEO of Kuku FM. “With Dulquer, we’re thrilled to explore new horizons in Southern India, a region that’s rich in languages, history and stories. Our mission is to empower our listeners across Bharat with stories that entertain, educate, and inspire. By partnering with an icon like Dulquer who is a versatile actor and truly understands the craft of storytelling, we’re not only celebrating the past but also reinventing how stories are shared in the digital age. Dulquer is a prominent actor who is well-regarded among younger audiences and families, positioning him as a relatable figure for listeners across diverse age groups. Furthermore, his influence extends beyond the realm of cinema into the digital space, thereby aligning perfectly with our vision at Kuku FM.”

 “Our storytelling OTT platform has experienced exceptional growth in our Southern user base, with over 1 million monthly active subscribers from these regions, now accounting for 35% of overall platform engagement”, shared Sachin Singh, VP Revenue Growth at Kuku FM. The demand for Southern language content has also seen a dramatic rise, with a 5x increase in monthly new subscriber additions over the past year.

 Dulquer Salmaan, expressing his excitement, stated, “Kuku FM is doing something truly innovative by reinventing storytelling in a way that blends tradition with modernity. As someone who finds stories to be central to my craft and passion, I’m thrilled to be part of a journey that celebrates the soul of South India’s storytelling legacy while making it accessible for today’s generation.”

 With this collaboration, Kuku FM invites listeners to rediscover the power of stories. Step into the world of Kuku FM, where each story is an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.

IFFCO-Tokio General Insurance Commemorates 25 Years, Champions IRDAI’s Vision of Universal Insurance by 2047

Gurugram, 5th December 2024: The leading general insurance company, IFFCO-Tokio General Insurance, commences its Silver Jubilee Year. With a legacy spanning 25 years and a strong focus on customer-centric solutions, the company reiterates its commitment to supporting the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India’s (IRDAI) ambitious goal of achieving insurance for all Citizens of India by 2047.

Founded in 2000 as a joint venture between IFFCO and Tokio Marine Group, company’s journey has been defined by unwavering trust and dedication to making insurance accessible to every individual, household, and business.

With a customer-centric approach, IFFCO Tokio has grown significantly since its inception in 2000. From a modest GWP of ₹6 crore, it has expanded to serve millions of customers across India including in rural areas and smaller towns, thus registering an impressive GWP of ₹10,000 crore in 2024. Its network of over 34,000 agents is dedicated to providing exceptional service to every customer.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Subrata Mondal, Managing Director & CEO said, “As we step into our 25th year of inception, we reaffirm our commitment to IRDAI’s vision of ‘Insurance for All by 2047.’ Over the years, we have built a legacy of trust and innovation, consistently striving to make insurance accessible to every individual, household, and business. Together with our employees, partners, and customers, we are dedicated to creating a more inclusive and secure future for all.”

On Corporate Social Responsibility, Mr. Mondal said IFFCO-Tokio’s CSR initiatives, in line with IRDAI’s goals, are dedicated to empowering rural youth through education and skill development, improving healthcare in underserved areas, and promoting sustainable practices for a greener future.

He further added, the company’s journey from 34 employees in 2000 to over 4,700 in 2024 is a testament to its inclusive culture. It empowers women to play a significant role in the insurance sector, reflecting our commitment to gender diversity and equality.

The insurer has made an impressive foothold in the Rural India. Guided by IRDAI’s Bima Vahak and Bima Vistaar initiatives, IFFCO Tokio has brought affordable insurance solutions to underserved communities. It has partnered with cooperatives to distribute micro insurance for package policies, health, and motor policies.

Gurugram-headquartered insurer has provided training to over 5,000 women agents fostering financial inclusion and community trust.

During its journey, IFFCO Tokio GIC has been bestowed with several awards & recognition. Recently, IFFCO-Tokio GIC has been awarded with ‘Healthcare Insurance Company’ Award at the ’14th Elets Healthcare Innovation Summit & Awards 2024′. For demonstrating exceptional leadership and exemplary contribution to the healthcare industry, Mr. Subrata Mondal (MD & CEO) was honoured with the prestigious ‘Visionary Healthcare Leader’ Award at the’ 14th Elets Healthcare Innovation Summit’. The company was also honoured with ‘5th Annual BFSI Technology Excellence Award 2024’ in the ‘Innovative Use of AI (General Insurance)’ category and won 13th InfoSec Maestros (CISO) Awards 2024 in ‘Smart CISO Category’ for implementing information security solutions, policies, and technologies.

Samosa Singh Unveils 5X Production Expansion and Plans Global Growth with FDA Certification in Focus

Bengaluru, December 5, 2024: Samosa Singh, one of India’s leading quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains, recently expanded its manufacturing capacity and launched a new manufacturing unit. In line with the growing demand and aiming for global expansion, the brand has now equipped its manufacturing capabilities to grow 5X, which makes it one of the largest manufacturers of samosas now in the country.

Samosa Singh is making waves in the food industry with its remarkable journey from a start-up to a scaling powerhouse. With a 5X boost in manufacturing capacity and achieving key export certifications, the brand is now aligned with global quality standards. The brand aims at operating 100+ physical QSR stores spread across major cities in the next 18 months.

Samosa Singh has earned ISO standardization and is actively pursuing FDA certification, reinforcing its commitment to top-notch manufacturing and food safety practices. The company operates from a semi-automated factory nestled in a green, eco-friendly environment, ensuring sustainable and efficient production processes.

Commenting on the brand’s global aspirations, Nidhi Singh, co-founder of Samosa Singh, said, “We are extremely delighted to announce that at Samosa Singh we have increased our production capabilities by 5X. As we move towards scaling new heights, the increase in capabilities of our production capabilities is an extremely important step towards that. Hustling is at the heart of our growth story and it will stand in good stead as we aspire to tread newer international markets. Our goal is to take India’s humble samosa to different parts of the world and offer an elevated experience.”

A strong proponent of women empowerment, Samosa Singh also proudly employs a significant number of women in its manufacturing setup, fostering diversity and inclusion.

Currently, Samosa Singh’s reach spans across Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi-NCR, Chennai, and Kochi, catering to the growing demand for its beloved samosas. With its dedication to quality, sustainability, and inclusivity, Samosa Singh is poised to redefine the Indian snack industry on a global scale.

Started mainly as a B2B player, Samosa Singh ventured into physical QSR format in December last year and since then has expanded to 15 plus locations and now aiming Global expansion.

Govardhan Ecovillage’s ‘LiFE 2024’ Conference Focuses on Sustainability Through a Bharatiya Lens, Led by HG Gauranga Das

India, Nationwide Release:

Delegates from across India assembled at the packed NSE Auditorium in BKC, Mumbai on 27th November witnessed a special event – “LiFE 2024: Conference on Bharatiya Perspective on Sustainability”. This uniquely themed Conference was organized by Govardhan Ecovillage (GEV) – India’s prominent UNWTO winning eco-tourism destination. The Conference was conceptualized by and organized under the able guidance of Gauranga Das, Director, GEV.

During recently concluded 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) at Baku, Azerbaijan, and G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil, India has reiterated its commitment towards meeting climate change and UNSDGs. Over the past few years, India has established itself as a role model for other countries by setting and pursuing ambitious climate and sustainable development goals.

Ancient Bharatiya perspective is extremely relevant for sustainability and sustainable development in modern context. Age-old Indian wisdom is fundamental in dealing sensibly with the sensitive environment and ecosystems, while balancing the economic progress and development. A well-structured, targeted, and continuous effort at all levels can work miracles to overcome nagging environmental challenges globally. While on one hand, India has a challenge to deal with its own carbon footprint, on the other hand, it has an opportunity to showcase applications of its ancient perspective in the modern context to re-establish its position as the ‘Vishwa-Guru’ and lead the world for a better, safer and more sustainable future.

Two central themes of the Conference (1) Consciousness, Culture & Sustainability and (2) Leveraging Sustainability Economics echoed throughout the sessions by the expert speakers. The basic tenets of age-old Indian culture leading to ideas around ‘conscious consumption’, ‘cleanliness led wellness’, ‘culture of respect for natural resources’, ‘best from the waste’, ‘living in harmony with nature’, ‘use of recyclable products’, ‘optimized production-distribution-consumption-reuse chain’, ‘trusteeship approach’, and the like – which were the spotlights of the event.

Another key idea deliberated in the conference was how to effectively leverage modern technologies in a way complimentary to ancient Indian practices to enhance sustainability at scale – at the individual, family, social, national and global levels. This will certainly optimize the use of resources and consumption, bring in efficiencies in product value chains, optimize distribution chains, and increase recyclability through responsible product development.

Enhanced focus on renewable energy and methods of adopting energy-friendly lifestyle will also be key to our balanced progress, as we march ahead towards becoming the world’s third largest economy in terms of overall GDP.

A structured approach to develop Indian Knowledge System on sustainability, centered around Indian traditional roots, wisdom literature, scientific yet practical outlook, nature-friendly living, and sustainability embedded in rich cultural traditions, that becomes foundational to multi-faceted sustainability initiatives was proposed and well-appreciated. Delegates also expressed their whole-hearted commitment in one voice for a wide-spread education of Indian traditional systems and practices that collectively lead to conservation of environment and natural resources.

The event brought together Subject Matter Experts from the Indian administration, academia, industry, and social impact sectors, who mesmerized the audience by their deep knowledge, and shared actionable insights on achieving sustainability through the integration of ancient Indian principles and modern technologies.

In addition to leading academicians from IIT’s, the esteemed panel of speakers included Shri C P Radhakrishnan, Hon. Governor of Maharashtra; Gauranga Das; Shri S Gurumurthy – well-known corporate & legal advisor.

The Hon. Governor emphasized that development and environmental preservation are two sides of the same coin. He stated that India’s accelerating progress must go hand in hand with the conservation of natural resources. Stressing the role of humanity as trustees of the planet’s resources, he urged that it is our collective responsibility to hand over a healthier, more sustainable Earth to future generations.

Gauranga Das spoke about an approach to sustainability rooted in Bharat’s traditional wisdom and culture, highlighting the concept of Ashta Lakshmis. He explained that Lakshmi encompasses far more than material wealth, extending to broader dimensions of prosperity. He seamlessly aligned this perspective with the conference theme, LiFE 2024: Bhartiya Perspective on Sustainability.

S Gurumurthy Ji outlined a four-pronged approach to advancing India’s journey towards sustainability. He called upon concerned individuals to unite in transforming development into a greener, more sustainable endeavor. He also reflected on India’s traditional way of life, which emphasizes harmony with nature and minimal resource consumption, contrasting it with the consumption patterns of the West.

Other speakers, including Prof. Varadraj Bapat, IIT Mumbai, SJMSOM; Prof. Ganti S Murthy, IIT Indore; Ar. Hiten Sethi, Founder, HSA; Prof. Ganesh Ramakrishnan, IIT, Mumbai.

The Conference was organized in association with Kotak School of Sustainability – IIT Kanpur, NIT – Warangal, and Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). National Stock Exchange (NSE) was the Venue Partner, and Nityo Infotech, Global IT Services & Solutions Company, was the Banquet Sponsor.

Towards the end of the Conference, Gauranga Das led the team of delegates to define a roadmap and create an executable plan as an effort to contribute meaningfully to the cause of sustainability and sustainable development.

Delegates from various walks of life, including policymakers, academicians, industry professionals, researchers, and corporates, and a large number of students were in attendance – highlighting the growing awareness about sustainability in today’s highly motivated young generation.

Govardhan Ecovillage is committed to play its role in sustainability in the district of Palghar, Maharashtra. This Conference was one such initiative to address the pressing issues through constructive actions that create high social impact.

KT Professional’s Dhruv Sayani Receives Prestigious Pioneer of the Year Award for Transforming the Haircare Industry

Mumbai, December 2024: Dhruv Sayani, the visionary founder of Ccigmaa Lifestyles Pvt Ltd and CEO of KT Professional, has been honoured with the prestigious “Pioneer of the Year” award in Beauty Innovation at the Icons of India Awards, organized by Times Applaud. This accolade recognises his contributions to the Indian hair care and beauty industry and his commitment to providing innovative, high-quality, and accessible hair care solutions. The award was presented by Indian actress and 90’s sensation, Karishma Kapoor.

 As the leader behind KT Professional, India’s first salon-approved keratin protein hair care brand, Dhruv’s passion for hair care innovation has positioned him as a trailblazer in a market traditionally dominated by imported products. His vision for Ccigmaa Lifestyle and KT Professionals has not only reshaped the hair care industry but also empowered consumers with premium, natural, and result-driven products that address diverse hair challenges.

With access to global hair care knowledge, Dhruv Sayani saw an untapped opportunity in the Indian market. While imported products largely focused on moisture, volume, and colour protection, the Indian consumer’s hair care needs went much beyond these aspects. Recognizing this gap, Dhruv launched KT Professional with the aim to provide Indian users with keratin-focused products that catered to a wider range of hair concerns, all while ensuring that the products were free from harmful chemicals, cruelty-free, and 100% vegan.

 Dhruv Sayani, MD Ccigmaa Lifestyles commented, “I’ve always believed that hair care goes beyond just a cosmetic solution. It’s about creating products that nourish, strengthen, and restore hair at its core, At KT Professional, we focus on innovations, creating high-quality, results-oriented solutions that cater to 18 different hair challenges, ensuring that we serve not just salons, but individual users as well. This award reflects our dedication and the trust our customers have in our products.”

 Since its inception, KT Professional has expanded its footprint across India, reaching 28 states, 86 cities, over 27,000 salons, and more than 150 beauty stores. Additionally, KT Professional’s range of products is available on 18+ e-commerce platforms, bringing salon-quality hair care to the fingertips of consumers across the country.

 Dhruv’s journey in the hair care industry is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality. He not only identified the growing demand for salon-quality products in the Indian market but also addressed the specific needs of Indian hair types with scientifically backed formulations. His focus on natural ingredients, sustainability, and cruelty-free practices has set new industry standards, earning him recognition as a leader in beauty innovation.

 The Icons of India Award highlights Dhruv’s pivotal role in transforming the Indian beauty and personal care landscape. Under his leadership, KT Professional continues to grow as a trusted name in hair care, helping consumers achieve healthier, stronger, and more beautiful hair.