Category Archives: News

55-Year-Old Male’s Abdominal Pain Diagnosed as Atypical Pancreatic Pseudocyst, Successfully Treated with Advanced Surgery

A 55-year-old male presented with persistent dragging pain in his left upper quadrant, which worsened after eating. Over the past three months, the patient had significantly reduced his food intake due to the pain, leading to noticeable weight loss. Initially, his symptoms were misdiagnosed as simple gastritis, and local treatment was administered. However, the patient’s condition did not improve, prompting further investigation.

A sonography revealed a peri-splenic hematoma, a collection of blood around the spleen, typically associated with blunt abdominal trauma. Despite the absence of a clear traumatic event, conservative management was employed based on initial CT findings, which also showed the hematoma. Unfortunately, these conservative measures did not alleviate the patient’s symptoms.

Dr. Vinay Thati, a General Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals Mumbai Central, decided to reassess the patient’s condition due to the lack of progress. Recognizing the limitations of the initial imaging and treatment approach, Dr. Thati ordered a new CT scan from another center for a fresh perspective. This scan uncovered an unexpected finding: a **pancreatic pseudocyst** located above the spleen. This was atypical, as pancreatic pseudocysts typically form behind the pancreas, not above it.

The unusual location of the pseudocyst and the patient’s persistent symptoms led to the decision to proceed with surgical intervention. Initially, the plan was to perform laparoscopic surgery to minimize invasiveness. However, due to the pseudocyst’s challenging position, the procedure was converted to an open surgery. During the operation, the surgical team established an internal drainage system by anastomosing a part of the jejunum (small intestine) to the pseudocyst. This technique allowed pancreatic juices to drain effectively into the small intestine and facilitated the gradual collapse of the pseudocyst.

Dr. Thati commented, “Accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment are crucial when dealing with complex abdominal conditions. Identifying the pancreatic pseudocyst in this atypical location was essential for effectively addressing the patient’s symptoms. By opting for internal drainage, we avoided the complications associated with external fistulas and achieved a successful outcome. It’s gratifying to see the patient’s positive recovery following the surgery.”

The case underscores the importance of thorough diagnostic evaluation in managing abdominal pain with ambiguous origins. The initial misdiagnosis as gastritis and the subsequent identification of an atypical peri-splenic hematoma and pancreatic pseudocyst highlight the need for vigilance and persistence in diagnosis. Following the surgery, the patient experienced a complete resolution of pain, improved appetite, and weight gain during a one-month follow-up.

Dr. Vinay Thati’s intervention, including advanced imaging and innovative surgical techniques, successfully addressed the patient’s condition and led to a positive recovery. This case illustrates the significance of precise diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention in achieving optimal patient outcomes.

ICICI Bank opens two new branches at Dwarka

New Delhi: ICICI Bank has set up two new branches at Sector 3 and Sector 19, Dwarka in New Delhi. The branches are equipped with an ATM, each.

 Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Verma, Vice Chancellor, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi, inaugurated both the branches.

 These branches offer a comprehensive range of accounts and deposits including savings and current accounts, fixed and recurring deposits and loans like business loan, home loan, personal loan, auto loan and education loan along with remittance and card services. They also provide locker facility at their premises. They operate from 9:30 A.M to 3:00 P.M on Monday to Friday and on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays of the month.

 They also offer Tab Banking facility that provides nearly 100 services at the customer’s place by an employee through a tablet device. The services include opening of accounts and Fixed Deposit (FD), raising cheque book request, generation of e-statements and change of address, among others.

 ICICI Bank has a network of more than 410 branches and over 880 ATMs and cash recycling machines (CRMs) in Delhi.

 ICICI Bank services its large customer base through a multi-channel delivery network of branches, ATMs, call centers, internet banking, and mobile banking.

Persistent Named Fastest Growing IT Services Brand in the 2024 Brand Finance India 100 Report

Persistent Systems, a global pioneer in Digital Engineering and Enterprise Modernization, has been recognized as the fastest-growing IT services brand in the prestigious 2024 Brand Finance India 100 report. Persistent ranked 9th among the most valuable IT services brands, with a brand value of $609 million and a brand strength score of 72.39/100, earning an AA brand rating. Since 2020, the Company’s brand value surged by 327%, and its brand strength index increased by 36% – the highest within India’s top 10 IT Services brands.

 Brand Finance is the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. Its brand strength framework evaluates brands across three key pillars: Brand Investment, examining growth initiatives; Brand Equity, assessing stakeholder perceptions; and Brand Performance, measuring market share, demand fulfillment, and promise delivery. By excelling in these parameters, Persistent achieved a remarkable 3.9-point increase in brand strength over the past year, outperforming its peers. This recognition underscores the effectiveness of its strategic investments and resulting strong business performance. It reflects Persistent’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions catering to client needs, maintaining high standards of excellence in service and quality, and fostering high levels of trust by all stakeholders.

 Persistent’s sustained growth momentum is fueled by its ability to anticipate client needs and deliver customized, innovative solutions that address specific business challenges, significantly contributing to its brand reputation. Persistent has achieved 17 consecutive quarters of revenue growth, reporting $328.2M in revenue in Q1 FY25 with 5.6% Q-o-Q and 16.0% Y-o-Y growth – a direct result of its resilience and future readiness. Beyond enhancing brand value and commending its marketing strategies, this accolade reinforces Persistent’s robust market positioning and deep relationships with stakeholders, highlighting its leadership and expanding value within the highly competitive IT Services market. In last year’s report, the Company was named the fastest-growing brand in Brand Value among the top 10 Indian IT Services brands.

 Gurvinder Sahni, Chief Marketing Officer, Persistent

 “We are honored to be recognized as the fastest-growing IT services brand in India by Brand Finance, with extraordinary 327% growth in brand value. This acknowledgment underscores our commitment to position Persistent as a leader in AI and other emerging technologies.

 Our success stems from continuous innovation, a strong focus on quality, and an exceptional understanding of our client needs. Strategic marketing investments, amplified by a high social media engagement and trust of all our stakeholders, have enhanced our brand visibility and recall. Our vibrant culture and employee initiatives, like achieving three Guinness World Records, highlight our innovative spirit.

 Persistent’s rise to the 9th position among Indian IT Services brands highlights our dedication to delivering exceptional value to our clients, becoming an ecosystem orchestrator with our partners, and creating a rewarding environment for our employees.”

 David Haigh, Chairman and CEO, Brand Finance

 “Persistent has made significant strides in brand building in recent years, as highlighted by our brand evaluation. According to the 2024 India 100 report, Persistent is the fastest-growing IT services brand among the top 10 IT brands, boasting a 36% growth rate since 2020. The company consistently scores high in employee equity, reflecting its people-centric culture, and excels in revenue growth, service delivery perception, and brand-building. These accomplishments demonstrate Persistent’s alignment with client needs and its adaptability to the dynamic market needs.”

 Liz Miller, Vice President and Principal Analyst, Constellation Research

 “The pace of change shows no sign of slowing as the transition from the digital age to the digital AI age marches on. Persistent has stepped into the epicenter of this shift and has posted impressive growth as a result. Their growth was a key factor in Persistent being named Constellation Research’s Best Enterprise Services Vendor for 2023 amid tough competition. But Persistent’s growth hasn’t been limited to growth in opportunities, customers, or revenue: Persistent’s brand positioning and strategic marketing initiatives have also advanced and is reflected in Brand Finance’s review of the enterprise services space. Having known the team and methodology at Brand Finance for some time now, it should not be understated how impressive this is, and the recognition is well-deserved.”

India to Set New Global Textile Sustainability Standards, Says Minister Pabitra Margherita at PHDCCI Summit

New Delhi: The 3rd Sustainable Textile Summit, hosted by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), concluded successfully on 17th September 2024, with a strong emphasis on India’s potential to lead the global textile industry in sustainability.

 The summit brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss innovative solutions and explore opportunities for a more sustainable textile future. Key themes addressed included ethical sourcing, labor practices, carbon emissions reduction, technology adoption, and circular economy solutions.

 Our vision is clear- to make India a global leader in sustainable textiles, to achieve this, we must remain innovative, agile, and committed to change. The government will support the industry with policies and initiatives essential to turning this vision into reality. As we look towards the future of our textile industry, I am confident that India will set new global benchmarks, fuelled by our spirit of self-reliance, innovation, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. Together, let us elevate India’s fabric to new heights of sustainability and global leadership, said Mr. Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles, Govt. of India while speaking at 3rd Edition of PHDCCI’s Sustainable textile summit held today at PHD House, New Delhi under the theme of Sustainable solutions for a global textile future.

 He added, India is rising to meet this challenge of sustainability with the Amrit Kaal vision, launching of the technology mission to promote eco-friendly products and the ESG Taskforce to adopt sustainability across the textile value chain. Our 5F formula—from Farm to Fiber to Factory to Fashion to Foreign Market—is paving the way for India’s sustainable growth from fiber to final product. This strategy will definitely position India on the global stage as a leader in sustainable textiles. The government’s integrated approach to sustainability, with initiatives like the National Technical Textiles Mission will further propel the industry towards a more sustainable future.

 The minister further assured that under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India will achieve its goals of leading the global textile industry in sustainability.

 Mr. Rohit Kansal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India discussed that sustainability is not something forced upon us, whether by western legislation or the demands of brands and consumers. Indians have been known for sustainability for ages, and the current trend of downsizing and reusing has long been part of India’s culture and heritage.

 He added that sustainability and circularity are becoming key focuses for the textile and apparel industry. Mr Kansal further discussed three mega trends affecting the global textile industry- first, the estimation that by 2030, global trade for apparel will reach $1.2 trillion. Second, the rise of innovation, digitization, and Industry 4.0, and third is the shift in sourcing patterns.

 He further discussed that textiles contribute 1.2 billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions and $500 billion losses from barely recycled clothing. However, he added that by adopting sustainability measures, it’s possible to unlock a $500 billion market and generate significant value.

Speaking further, he gave examples of Indian textile clusters excelling in sustainability, such as the Tirupur knitwear cluster, Panipat cluster where 95% of plastic bottles are recycled, woman-led cluster in Agroha, and the sustainable initiatives of Kasturi cotton.

 He added that 45% of installed capacity for textile production now comes from non-fossil resources. And for this we don’t need external agencies to teach us about sustainability, in fact we just need to look and learn from each other. We are soon to become leaders in electric vehicles (EVs), and similarly, we will lead in textile sustainability, he concluded.

 Dr. Srikanta K Panigrahi, Director General, Indian Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD) & Former Secretary, Govt. of India discussed how sustainability has become imperative for everyone, and strategic public policy is moving in that direction. Speaking further he called for a focus on natural fibers to enhance sustainability and urged the industry to explore the commercial viability of these fibers as part of building a Viksit Bharat.

 On the certification system, he discussed the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision to elevate Khadi to global importance, but challenges like technical trade barriers need to be addressed. As per the western norms all textile products require a QR code to indicate the GHG emissions and ecological footprint of each product in line to this a Indian standard needs to be developed, and Mr Panigrahi explained that the Bureau of Indian Standards is working on developing Indian standard of itself to achieve global competitiveness.

 Mr. Madhu Sudhan Bhageria, Chair, PHDCCI Textiles Committee & CMD, Filatex India Ltd discussed that both challenges and opportunities lie ahead for the textile sector. He acknowledged the remarkable contribution of the industry, which upholds India’s culture and serves as a cornerstone for the economy.

 He added that the global textile business is growing at a CAGR of 3%. The rapid expansion of e-commerce, shifting leisure patterns, and increased smartphone usage have also contributed to its growth. He discussed that the objective of this event is to identify focus areas and formulate actionable strategies to address the issues our country and industry are facing. Speaking further on challenges, he highlighted the fragmentation within the industry, financial constraints, and technological hurdles as key concerns.

 Mr. Bagheria further discussed that SMEs need support and prioritizing this sector is essential. At PHDCCI, we have outlined several recommendations, and we hope they will create a positive ripple effect in addressing these challenges, as sustainability is no longer an option it is essential.

 Mr. Salil Bhandari, Former President of PHDCCI & Founder, BGJC Consulting Pvt. Ltd emphasized that PHDCCI is a chamber that takes any issue to the grassroots level. As a chamber, we represent the largest MSME group in India, working at both the state and central levels.

 He added that Sustainability doesn’t just need deliberations, it requires action, and textiles are an essential part of this sustainability journey. It starts with the individual, and personal actions are necessary. Bhandari also spoke about Earth Overshoot Day and urged large industries to collaborate with MSMEs, as these smaller businesses require support. He reiterated the importance of MSMEs for the nation’s growth and encouraged large industries to work in tandem with them.

 Distinguished speakers from the textile industry shared their experiences and perspectives on sustainability. Mr. B M Sharma, Joint Managing Director of RSWM Limited, discussed the company’s sustainability initiatives and the importance of collaboration between industry players. Mr. Anil Jadhav, Regional Director-South Asia & Middle East of Ecocert, highlighted the role of certifications in promoting sustainable practices.

 Further, during the session presentations were made by Mr. B M Sharma, Jt. Managing Director, RSWM Limited; Mr. Anil Jadhav, Regional Director-South Asia & Middle East, Ecocert; and Varun Vaid, Business Director, Wazir Advisors Pvt. Ltd who discussed their respective organizations’ contributions to the sustainability path.

 The summit concluded with a call for action, urging industry stakeholders to embrace sustainability as a core value and work together to create a more sustainable textile future. Recommendations included promoting ethical sourcing, reducing environmental impact, investing in sustainable technologies, and supporting policy reforms.

The burgeoning middle class will drive India to become a global aviation powerhouse, says Jaideep Mirchandani

India’s aviation sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by a surge in demand and the rapid development of new airports. With record numbers of passengers flying, the industry has transformed into the third-largest domestic aviation market after China and the US. According to Statista research, India’s passenger traffic amounted to over 376 million at airports across India in the financial year 2024, of which close to 69.6 million were international travellers, registering a 15 per cent increase compared to 2023. The ambitious expansion plans by Indian carriers with massive orders placed for new aeroplanes is clearly a positive sign of progress for the aviation industry in India.

Industry experts attribute the rapid aviation growth to a combination of factors, including a growing middle class and rising household incomes, the introduction of more low-cost carriers and major infrastructure developments, particularly the increase in operational airports. The adoption of advanced technologies, progressive government policies, foreign direct investment (FDI) and a vibrant tourism industry also contribute to driving demand for air travel.

Another significant growth driver is the regional connectivity scheme, UDAN. According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, by 2023, 73 unserved/underserved airports, including nine heliports and two water aerodromes, have been operationalised since 2017 under the UDAN scheme. The government has also revealed plans to operationalise 12 new airports across eight states and union territories this year under the scheme.

“The focus on the regional connectivity scheme will have multifaceted benefits. Passengers will be able to enjoy improved air connectivity while airlines will receive concessions for operating regional routes. Underserved regions will also benefit in terms of economic development and increased tourism,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, Chairman of aviation major Sky One.

Now, the challenge before the Government, Indian passenger aviation companies and other stakeholders will be to maintain the growth trajectory and propel it to new heights. “We have already seen some major steps planned by the Government. In the recently concluded Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation, India formally adopted the landmark Delhi Declaration, which is expected to establish a framework for strengthening regional cooperation, addressing aviation challenges and ensuring sustainable growth. The declaration, along with coordinated efforts from all stakeholders, is also likely to make air travel safer, more affordable and accessible for all citizens,” says Mirchandani.

He believes that more attention should be paid to research and development, and maintaining a strong supply chain for sustained growth. “Better financial incentives and skill development programs can strengthen the workforce, while collaboration with global players on training and developing domestic MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) will cement India’s position as a key player in global aviation. Strategic partnerships and global alliances will also help Indian carriers extend their international reach,” he concludes.

AI Adoption Soars in India, but Energy and Infrastructure Challenges Threaten Sustainability: Pure Storage Survey

Bangalore, India — September 20, 2024: Pure Storage®, the IT pioneer that delivers the world’s most advanced data storage technology and services has released a new report highlighting the preparedness of enterprises in India to compete in a business landscape characterized by two key trends – AI and sustainability. The report, “India’s AI Journey: Balancing Innovation with Sustainable Growth” found that while AI is a top priority, companies are concerned about its impact on energy consumption and that meeting their ESG goals will become impossible without a modern robust IT infrastructure.

Industry Significance:

AI is rapidly emerging as a transformative power across various industries in India, driven by the urgent demand for innovation, increased productivity, and improved customer experiences. A recent report by TeamLease Digital indicated that AI could contribute approximately $450-500 billion to the nation’s GDP by 2025, representing 10% of India’s ambitious $5 trillion GDP goal. However, AI is also putting a strain on data centers by requiring more resources such as electricity, water and space. According to the International Energy Agency, data centers already account for 1 to 2 percent of global energy consumption, AI will push this up even more.

Survey Highlights:

India’s AI Momentum gaining traction: Over the next three years, 48% of respondents have prioritized AI to maintain their competitive edge. Currently, 52% of organizations have deployed AI technologies, 35% are piloting them, and 12% are still exploring integration strategies.

 Current AI Applications: AI is being leveraged across various functions, including marketing and sales, IT operations and fraud detection, reflecting its versatility. Today, 64% of the organizations use AI for their virtual assistant/chatbot function, 45% use AI across IT operations and cybersecurity reflecting the critical need for secure and efficient IT environments and 40% use it for new product development (NPD) and innovation.

 AI Adoption Across Sectors: The banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI); technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) sectors lead in AI adoption with 68% and 70% rates, respectively, while sectors like government, healthcare, and manufacturing show more cautious adoption, with higher percentages in the piloting phase. While tech and media sectors prefer cloud-based AI solutions, BFSI and government sectors lean towards on-premises solutions due to compliance and security concerns.

 IT infrastructure is a key challenge in AI deployment: To prepare for AI, 74% of organizations plan to upgrade data management tools and processes, 65% plan to enhance data storage infrastructure, and 61% plan to invest in data security and compliance to ensure secure and efficient data flows.

 Rising Energy Consumption and Sustainability Concerns: As AI technologies expand, the demand for supporting infrastructure has surged. 42% of organizations report a doubling in compute power needs, while 41% have seen their storage demands double. This growth also drives higher energy consumption, with 74% of organizations concerned about AI’s impact on energy use and ESG goals.

Executive Insight:

“As AI adoption surges in India, organizations are driving innovation across sectors, but they struggle with rising energy demands and meeting ESG goals. Our report highlights the urgent need to invest in robust, energy-efficient systems that can power AI-driven growth while securing a greener future for all.” – Ajay Singh, Chief Product Officer, Pure Storage

Methodology

Pure Storage’s study is based on a survey conducted across India’s enterprises in sectors such as BFSI, Tech-Telecom-Media, Healthcare (Pharma R&D and Diagnostics), Government, Airlines, Transportation, Supply Chain and Logistics, Manufacturing, etc. from June to August 2024. The study involved 210 respondents including key IT decision-makers and those with the authority to influence IT purchasing decisions. The insights were gathered through a combination of in-depth interviews and a survey questionnaire.

Youth4Jobs Foundation and Zero Project to Co-Host Zero Project India Conference 2024

New Delhi, September 20, 2024: The Zero Project India Conference 2024, a landmark event dedicated to advancing disability inclusion through innovation, is set to take place on September 19-20 at The Leela Hotel, Gurugram. Organized by Youth4Jobs Foundation, with the global Zero project, this conference represents a crucial platform for addressing the needs of India’s largest minority—people with disabilities—by showcasing pioneering solutions and fostering collaboration across sectors. This second edition of the Zero Project India Conference builds on the success of the inaugural event, with a renewed focus on driving systemic change in this sector.

In India, approximately 63.28 million people, or 4.52% of the population, live with disabilities, according to the ICMR’s publication from the NFHS-5 survey (2019-21). This significant portion of the population represents the largest minority in the country, underscoring the urgent need for inclusive initiatives that address their unique challenges. The Zero Project India Conference 2024 aims to meet this need by highlighting innovations in technology, education, and policy that can transform accessibility and inclusion for millions.

Meera Shenoy, Founder and CEO of Youth4Jobs Foundation, emphasized the importance of the conference, stating, “The Zero Project India Conference is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for change, bringing together diverse minds to create an inclusive future. At Youth4Jobs, we are deeply committed to addressing the needs of people with disabilities, who constitute the largest minority in India. This conference allows us to leverage innovation and collaboration to break down barriers and build a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. By focusing on grassroots innovations and the empowerment of women with disabilities, we are not only addressing current challenges but also paving the way for a more equitable future.”

The conference agenda will be rich with impactful sessions, including a discussion on the global potential of Indian grassroots solutions. This panel will explore how local innovations, driven by community needs, can be scaled to make a global impact. Topics range from AI to grassroot, women, assistive tech, early interventions, Building bridges with Africa etc. The event will also feature a dedicated session on the Women Entrepreneurs with Disabilities (WEDO) initiative, an important Youth4Jobs program that empowers women to become leaders in their communities. These discussions underscore the conference’s commitment to not only addressing the challenges faced by people with disabilities but also empowering them to lead the charge in creating solutions.

“With the Zero Project India Conference, we have a unique and powerful opportunity to forge connections between our extensive global network of experts and the incredible, homegrown innovations arising from India and beyond. This platform is not just about sharing knowledge, but about fostering a collaborative environment where international leaders and local changemakers can work together to address some of the most pressing challenges in accessibility, inclusion, and social development. By building these bridges, we aim to amplify the impact of pioneering solutions that hold the potential to transform societies globally.” said Michael Fembek, CEO of the Zero Project.

The conference is supported by The Hans Foundation and Axis Bank Foundation, both of which play a crucial role in advancing disability inclusion in India. Their involvement underscores the importance of multi-sector collaboration in driving meaningful change.

As India continues to grow as a hub for innovation, the role of initiatives like the Zero Project India Conference becomes increasingly vital. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between global and local stakeholders, this event aims to accelerate the adoption of innovative practices that can significantly improve the quality of life for people with disabilities across the nation.

Youth4Jobs Foundation, alongside its partners, is leading this mission, setting the stage for a future where inclusivity is not just an aspiration but a reality. The Zero Project India Conference 2024 is poised to be a landmark event in the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive and accessible world.

Dr. P. D. Patil Receives Lifetime Achievement Award at 36th Pune Festival 2024

Pune, 20th September 2024: Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth proudly announces a monumental achievement as our esteemed Chancellor, Hon’ble Dr. P. D. Patil, is honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 36th Pune Festival 2024. The award, presented by Shri. Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, recognizes Hon’ble Dr. Patil’s dedication and outstanding contributions to education, healthcare and social service.

The Pune Festival, inaugurated amidst great splendour, is a celebrated cultural event founded by Mr. Suresh Kalmadi and Mrs. Meera Kalmadi in collaboration with the Maharashtra Tourism Directorate and the Government of India’s Tourism Department. Known nationwide for its vibrant celebration of India’s diverse cultural heritage, the festival showcases art, music and tradition, symbolising Pune’s prominence on the national stage.

Hon’ble Dr. P. D. Patil has been a visionary leader whose relentless commitment to advancing education and healthcare has transformed Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth into one of India’s most respected institutions. Under his visionary leadership, the Vidyapeeth has introduced innovative academic programs, modern teaching methodologies and state-of-the-art research facilities that set new benchmarks in education. Dr. Patil’s focus on creating a world-class learning environment has not only elevated the institution’s standards but also inspired countless students and educators to strive for excellence.

Dr. Patil’s contributions extend beyond education, as he has been a pivotal force in revolutionizing healthcare through the establishment of advanced medical facilities and hospitals. His efforts have enhanced patient care and accessibility to quality healthcare, positively impacting lives across Maharashtra and beyond. Dr. Patil’s dedication to social service is equally commendable, as he continues to support numerous philanthropic initiatives aimed at uplifting the underprivileged and addressing societal challenges.

Speaking on this significant occasion, Hon’ble Dr. P. D. Patil expressed, “Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award is a profound honour that humbles me deeply. I am grateful for this recognition and take it as a responsibility to continue my efforts in education, healthcare and social service. My heartfelt thanks to Mr. Suresh Kalmadi and Mrs. Meera Kalmadi for their vision in making the Pune Festival a beacon of cultural unity. I also wish to acknowledge the contributions of Mr. S. D. Phadnis, whose artistic spirit has brought joy to Maharashtra. It is a privilege to be part of a community that celebrates diversity and excellence.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to Dr. Patil’s enduring legacy, inspiring generations to follow in his footsteps. His visionary leadership and dedication continue to shape the future, making a lasting impact on education, healthcare and social welfare.

As Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth moves forward, it remains committed to upholding the values and vision of Hon’ble Dr. P. D. Patil, advancing initiatives that foster excellence, innovation and community service.

Unraveling the art, history and economic opportunities of Kanpur with TOI Dialogues

KANPUR, INDIA (September 20, 2024) – The Times of India Dialogues, a premier platform for exploring India’s urban development, announces its upcoming event in Kanpur on September 23, 2024. This edition aims to spotlight Kanpur’s transformation from an industrial hub to a multifaceted economic and cultural center. Following successful events in Gorakhpur, Lucknow, and Varanasi, TOI Dialogues Kanpur will bring together thought leaders, industry experts, and notable personalities to discuss the city’s pivotal role in Uttar Pradesh’s progress and India’s growth story.

The event will feature a keynote address by Awanish Kumar Awasthi, Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, focusing on Kanpur’s development trajectory. A series of panel discussions will explore Kanpur’s economic transformation, cultural impact, and entrepreneurial success stories. The program also includes engaging fireside chats with prominent figures such as Manu Bhaker (Indian Olympic shooter), Divyenndu, (acclaimed actor), Malini Awasthi (Folk Singer & Padma Shri Awardee) and Srikanth Bolla (Chairman of Bollant Industries).

“Kanpur’s story is an exemplary case study of the growth of culture & economy. Through TOI Dialogues, we aim not just to chronicle this remarkable journey, but to ignite conversations that will shape the city’s—and indeed our nation’s—future,” said Prasad Sanyal, Business Head of Timesofindia.com.

The event will delve into Kanpur’s traditional industries, emerging sectors, and cultural contributions, providing a comprehensive view of the city’s significance in India’s development narrative. It will take place on September 23, 2024, starting at 5:30 PM, with the venue to be announced.

Alvarez & Marsal Appoints Bharat Garg and Sameer Amte as Managing Directors to Strengthen Its India Leadership Team

MUMBAI, INDIA, 20 September 2024 – Leading global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) India has announced the appointment of Bharat Garg and Sameer Amte as Managing Directors in its Business Transformation Services practice. These appointments align with A&M’s strategy to expand capabilities across key sectors in India by attracting top talent and providing clients with comprehensive solutions. The firm remains focused on delivering bespoke services to support clients in the consumer, retail, and industrial sectors, helping them navigate challenges to unlock growth opportunities.

Bharat Garg, based in Mumbai, brings over 16 years of strategic consulting experience across diverse sectors including FMCG, direct-to-consumer brands, fashion, and retail. Bharat has been driving large-scale business transformations, corporate strategy formulation, and end-to-end margin improvement for clients globally. His prior role as a Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) saw him lead key transformation projects for global Fortune 200 companies, significantly improving operational efficiencies and strategic outcomes. At A&M, Bharat will focus on expanding A&M’s consumer and retail practice and strengthening the firm’s capabilities in end-to-end transformation and driving operational improvements.

Sameer Amte, based in Pune, joins A&M with over 20 years of consulting experience across industrial, retail, and life sciences sectors. Sameer has a proven track record in EBITDA improvement programs, digital transformation, supply chain planning, and omni-channel transformation initiatives. Prior to joining A&M, Sameer held senior leadership roles at Accenture Strategy and Consulting leading the retail and life sciences practice in India. Sameer has spearheaded major digital transformation projects, helping clients navigate complex challenges in sales, supply chain, and cost optimization. At A&M, Sameer will strengthen the firm’s industrial sector capabilities and leverage digital strategies to drive growth for clients across sectors in a rapidly evolving market.

Himanshu Bajaj, Managing Director and India Co-Country Leader at A&M, said:

 “Bharat and Sameer’s appointments underscores our commitment to strengthening the leadership team and expanding our service offerings in India. Their deep expertise in the industrial and consumer sectors, combined with their ability to deliver practical, hands-on solutions, will help our clients unlock new growth opportunities. As we continue to grow and evolve in India, their leadership will be instrumental in ensuring we meet the needs of businesses looking to thrive in this fast-changing landscape.

Bharat Garg, Managing Director at A&M, commented:

 “India’s rising income levels and the corresponding growth in consumer spending are reshaping the consumer and retail landscape. Companies need to adapt to the evolving demands of customers to stay relevant. A&M’s operational expertise and deep understanding of market dynamics position us uniquely to deliver solutions that help businesses scale effectively and profitably while staying responsive to consumer needs. I am excited to join A&M and contribute to its mission of driving transformative growth for clients globally.

Sameer Amte, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, added:

 “India’s industrial sector is poised for substantial growth, fueled by “Make in India” initiative launched by the GOI to promote investments coupled by shifts in global supply chains. The organizations have a unique opportunity to take advantage of this dynamic situation and expedite their growth ambitions. However, organizations must carve out clear growth path, and strengthen their operations by leveraging digital and gen AI to give themselves an excellent chance to take advantage of this opportunity. A&M’s unique combination of developing growth and RTM strategies, digital led operational excellence and global reach enables us to deliver comprehensive solutions that drive transformation agendas of the organization. I am happy to join the firm at such a dynamic time and look forward to helping our clients achieve their strategic goals.”