23, Aug 2024
National Space Day Quote 2024 – TakeMe2 Space | Ronak Kumar Samantray – CEO | Space Sector

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Ronak Kumar Samantray – CEO of Space Sector

 “Space is for everyone. This statement is not merely a slogan; it personifies the core belief that propels our mission at TakeMe2Space. We are initiating a new era in space exploration, one that makes the cosmos accessible to everyone.

Our focus on AI-driven compute and storage satellite infrastructure ensures affordability and broad accessibility, dismantling the traditional barriers that have kept space exploration exclusive. We are assembling innovative methods that enable daily connections with space, encompassing education, research, personal projects, and unique experiences.

On this National Space Day, let us celebrate the limitless possibilities of space and the extraordinary opportunities it presents. Together, we can motivate future generations, drive innovation, and decode the mysteries of the universe.”

23, Aug 2024
Verticalized SaaS Payments platform Easebuzz revenue surges to INR 290 Crore in FY 24; eyes IPO in next 2-3 years

Pune, 23rd August, 2024: Verticalized SaaS payments platform Easebuzz has released its financial numbers for FY24. The annual Gross Transaction Value (GTV) processed by the platform during the year crossed a record INR 1,00,000 Crore, a 48% growth rate compared to FY23. With a rapidly expanding merchant base touching 1,50,000 mark, the platform experienced an year-on-year revenue growth rate of 23%, taking the revenues to INR 290 Crore. The daily volume run rate of the platform touched close to 1 Mn transactions.

Despite headwinds in the fintech industry and changing regulatory landscape, Easebuzz is able to maintain its growth trajectory with strong focus on verticalization, personalization and compliance culture. With a robust tech and product suite, Easebuzz maintained its dominance as one of the largest SaaS based payment solutions providers in the Education segment, with over 10,000 institutes relying on its full-stack technology and payment infrastructure.

With verticalization as core Strategy, Easebuzz is helping businesses of every size and scale across eCommerce, Real Estate, Travel, BFSI, Education, Government & Municipalities, and many more. Easebuzz is enabling digital payment infrastructure for some of the marquee clients like Symbiosis University, Parul University, State GRAS, Noida Power Corporation, BSES Rajdhani Power, GoKwik, IRCTC, DLF, Brigade, BigBasket, MTDC, etc.

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Rohit Prasad, Founder & CEO, Easebuzz, said, “We have experienced phenomenal momentum in FY24 and on track to cross $50 Bn GTV and $100 Mn revenue in FY25. We aim to achieve this growth while maintaining our strong record of profitability. Our technology-centric approach, focus on personalized solutions and compliance driven culture has fostered trust among leading enterprises and government organizations. Driven by the vision and laudable policies of the government & RBI, Indian economy is set to become more and more formalized & digitized. This presents a potential opportunity for Easebuzz to take part in our country’s growth journey and capitalize on the surging demand, creating more revenue channels through our software solutions and payment products. With increased market share and profitability at the core, we also aim to go public in the next 2 to 3 years”.

23, Aug 2024
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Marks Women’s Equality Day with Renewed Commitment to Gender Equality and Empowerment

Bangalore, 23 August 2024: In recognition of Women’s Equality Day on August 26th, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) reaffirms its steadfast commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women within its workforce and beyond. Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), TKM has initiated a series of transformative measures aimed at fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

As part of its long-term vision, TKM has set a target to increase the representation of women in its workforce to 30% by 2030. To achieve this, TKM has implemented a series of robust Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including the formation of a focussed senior level team dedicated to DEI, extensive benchmarking across industries and aligning with the International Labour Organization’s 2030 agenda of creating greater opportunities for women.

On March 13, 2024, TKM celebrated a significant milestone with the capping ceremony of its first batch of 55 women supervisors, along with the induction of 160 new female team members, raising the total number of women in the company to over 450, with plans to reach 850+ by the end of the year. TKM has also introduced a Gender Diversity Standard Operating Procedure Manual, detailing best practices for promoting gender diversity. These efforts, including unconscious bias surveys and the “Samvardhana” sensitization program, underscore TKM’s holistic approach to creating a supportive, inclusive ecosystem that not only empowers women but also enhances the overall quality and competitiveness of its workforce.

Mr. G. Shankara

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. G. Shankara – Executive Vice President, Finance and Administration, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe that gender equality is not just a goal, but a critical driver of our success and sustainability. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace is deeply embedded in our organizational values, and we are proud to be making significant strides in empowering women within our workforce. By setting ambitious targets and investing in the necessary infrastructure and training programs, we are not only enhancing gender diversity but also creating a work environment where every individual can thrive. As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day, we reaffirm our dedication to creating equal opportunities and paving the way for a more equitable future for all.”

TKM’s commitment to gender diversity is further exemplified by the expansion of its training programs. The three-year residential course at Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) now has its intake doubled to 1200 students, with up to 600 female students, while the Toyota Kaushalya program offers a two-year training program for rural and economically disadvantaged students. To support this initiative, TKM has made significant infrastructure investments, including the construction of a new dormitory at Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) to accommodate 600 female students, and the enhancement of safety features and facilities such as upgraded restrooms and locker rooms.

As TKM marks Women’s Equality Day, the company reaffirms its commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women. This vision extends beyond the organization’s boundaries, encompassing the entire value chain and society at large. TKM believes that diversity and inclusion are not only corporate responsibilities but also societal benefits that contribute to the development of world-class talent and mass happiness. TKM remains dedicated to supporting the professional development and advancement of women through targeted initiatives and programs, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to thrive in their careers.

23, Aug 2024
3rd CREDAIbility-themed CREDAI Hyderabad Property Show moves to the eastern part of the city

Hyderabad: 23rd August 2024: CREDAI, the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India, the country’s apex body of private real estate developers, moves to the eastern part of the city with the 3rd edition of #CREDAIbility themed Hyderabad Property Show being held in the Metro Station Ground at Nagole from 23rd to 25th of August 2024. This was inaugurated by Shri D Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Electronics & Communications, Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana along with Shri Malreddy Rangareddy, MLA Ibrahimpatnam in the presence of CREDAI Hyderabad leadership team, member developers, and other stakeholders including building material manufacturers, consultants, and financial institutions, all showcasing the latest advancements in the real estate sector.

In view of the overall development across the city, more and more corporates prefer Hyderabad as their India base, and the demand for housing and commercial real estate is surging ahead every day. This CREDAIbility themed property show by CREDAI Hyderabad brings the best and most credible, RERA registered real estate projects in the East region of Hyderabad. At the property show, the best projects featuring Apartment complexes, Villas, Luxurious and ultra-luxurious Buildings, Plots, and Commercial Spaces in the areas of Bandlaguda (east), Boduppal, ECIL Cross Roads, Ghatkesar, Habsiguda, Kushaiguda, L.B. Nagar, Mansoorabad, Medipally, Nacharam, Nagaram, Nagole, Padmarao Nagar, Peerzadiguda, Pocharam, Saidabad, Sainikpuri, Saroornagar, Tarnaka and Uppal will be on display under one roof.

Speaking at the property show Mr. V. Rajashekar Reddy, President, CREDAI Hyderabad, said, “Hyderabad’s real estate industry is thriving and rapidly expanding, fuelled by proactive state governance. Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri. A. Revanth Reddy was on a recent trip to USA and South Korea, wherein he mobilized an on-trip investment of Rs. 31,500 Crore (Approximately) and he pitched Telangana as the Future State, and the vision of Hyd 4.0 to the global business community across varied sectors of Technology, ITeS, AI, Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences, Research, Electrical Vehicles, Data Centres and Manufacturing. This would create an immediate job opportunity of approximately 30,750 for the state. With this rejuvenation, the real estate sector is bound to look up. Over the past ten quarters, 27% of the city’s office stock has been added, and 23% of this space was absorbed during the same period. The office stock has grown 1.9 times in the past five years and 3.1 times in the past decade. Hyderabad is also emerging hub of Global Capability Centres (GCC), supported by ample talent availability, an improving standard of living, and comparatively economical rentals, and a robust infrastructure. Hyderabad accounted for 21% of GCC leasing activity in India from 2022 to H1 2024. In the backdrop of these developments, Hyderabad’s real estate industry is strong and expanding rapidly with an Annual growth (CAGR) of 29% in total value of unit sales from H1-CY19 to H1 CY24. The city has registered a 257% increase in the value of units sold for H1-CY24 Vs. H1-CY19 and 148% growth in housing unit sales. This represents a positive sentiment on ‘Brand Hyderabad.’ We were a witness to the palpable enthusiasm in the public towards owning a property of their choice at the previous editions of CREDAIbility property shows this month.”

He further added, “The eastern part of Hyderabad is extending towards Warangal and Vijayawada. Over the years, the zone has experienced substantial residential growth. The fact that the eastern zone happens to be the gateway to Andhra Pradesh is perhaps contributes to the expansion. The East Zone accounts for 10 % of the city’s properties which attracts prospective buyers from the locality. It is very well connected to the rest of the city through an existing metro rail network and a network of roads and rapid transit flyovers. This makes this zone attractive. We invite the prospective homebuyers in this part of the city to visit the upcoming property show at Nagole Metro Station Grounds and choose the home of their dream.”

Adding to this Mr. N. Jaideep Reddy, President-Elect, CREDAI Hyderabad said, “Hyderabad aligns with this national trend, showing a growing preference for homeownership. Developers should focus on incorporating a diverse range of amenities to meet evolving buyer needs, including child-friendly features, modern conveniences, and sustainability. Sustainability is becoming a key differentiator in the market, with a strong emphasis on integrating energy-efficient appliances, rainwater harvesting systems, and renewable energy sources into developments. The luxury market is increasingly leaning towards smart homes equipped with advanced technology and eco-friendly features. While short-term housing values are expected to remain stable, the long-term outlook is positive. This will bolster property values and investment in Hyderabad’s residential market. With stable borrowing costs and a variety of high-quality options across both apartment and villa segments, the market is well-positioned for sustained growth. Developers must continue to deliver superior products, with a strong focus on sustainability, to capitalize on the promising opportunities in Hyderabad’s dynamic real estate landscape.”

According to Mr. B. Jagannath Rao, General Secretary of CREDAI Hyderabad, ” Hyderabad’s real estate market has witnessed remarkable growth, and with the policy to spread the growth across the city, East Hyderabad is not far behind. This part of the city has registered a CAGR growth of 31% in the total value of unit sales from H1 CY19 to H1 CY24. This region has witnessed a 98% increase in sales of units and 89% growth in unit sales value for the same period. The Avg. Value of units sold in East Hyderabad is Rs. 70 Lacs. It has grown by 42% since H1 CY 19. The budget Segment with a housing value of less than 1 Crore is the highest-performing segment in East Hyderabad. However, in the period of H1 CY24 to H1 CY19 the segment of Rs. 1 Crore to 2 Crore registered an increase of 255% in the number of units and 253% in the value of units sold. This growth reflects a significant generational shift towards homeownership, which indicated a strong preference for buying over renting across all age groups. The east Hyderabad region is evolving into a vibrant hub characterized by modern amenities, enhanced connectivity, and a diverse range of real estate projects. We welcome the home buyers to avail the most trustworthy projects on display at CREDAIbility property show near Nagole metro station and pick up their dream home.”

23, Aug 2024
How Materials Science Propelled us to Space

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Mr. Akshay Kashinath, Head of Business Development (Aerospace & Defence), Carborundum Universal Limited.

August 23, 2024 – the red-letter day when India became the first country to successfully land near the lunar south pole or the dark side of the moon. While all thrusters were firing during launch, there was one material that was efficiently working in the background to ensure safe take-off – CUMI’s flame deflectors. Engineered from high Alumina refractories, they are built to endure extreme temperatures from flames and exhaust gases during lift-off.

Now celebrated as National Space Day to mark a historic moment for India and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), August 23 is also a hat-tip to the numerous private players like CUMI who have actively furthered India’s voyage into the great beyond.

Immense potential of materials science

In the movie that paid tribute to India’s seemingly impossible Mars Orbiter Mission – ‘Mission Mangal’ – the sheer ingenuity of Indian aerospace engineers and the tremendous capability of materials science took centre stage. This included materials that ensure efficient thermal protection, optimise individual component weight, and fabrics that self-heal, among others.

Space programs require a variety of special materials that are designed to meet some stringent requirements and deliver flawless performance. Flame deflectors that are used to redirect the flames away from the launchpad and rocket are a great example. During launch, massive heat and energy is generated and ambient temperature can go upwards of 2500 degrees centigrade in seconds. If the flames are not suitably deflected, the launchpad, service structure, and launch vehicle with its payload could be destroyed before take-off.

The answer – Super refractory materials.

Refractories are the only material that can simultaneously resist such high temperature, pressure, and chemical corrosion (while still retaining their identity, strength, and form). CUMI is proud to have a long-term association with ISRO for our high performance refractories. For 20 years now, we have been supplying our indigenously developed refractory products for all ISRO rocket launchpads at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

ISRO has led path-breaking space exploration and commercial programs for India – 124 spacecraft missions, 98 launch missions, and 432 foreign satellite launches, among others. These endeavours are the result of internal R&D as well as innovation by ecosystem partners such as CUMI.

India in the interstellar

India’s space economy is predicted to grow more than five-fold in the next 10 years. This finds evidence in the number of space tech startups that have mushroomed over the last decade. From 1 in 2014, we now have 189 DPIIT-recognised players in this space.

The latest Budget announcement highlights the government’s proactive measures to give a boost to homegrown innovation. The Rs. 1,000 crore venture capital fund to advance the space economy is the most recent in a series of strategic initiatives.

The turning point for private entities was the India Space Policy 2023, aimed at promoting greater participation of research, academia, startups and industry partners in the nation’s ambitious space programs. Under the policy, the government has been encouraging the private sector to invest in creating new infrastructure in the space vertical as well as using ISRO facilities. Similarly, the commissioning of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), has been aimed at promoting and enhancing the role of private entities in the Indian space sector.

India has already achieved over 90% import substitution when it comes to launch vehicles. However, there is a scope for further import substitution in satellites and other verticals of the space sector.

One of the most certain ways to achieve this by both government and non-government entities in the Indian space sector is to capitalise on indigenous materials, which could expedite import substitution and further reduce the costs of such programs.

On the horizon: pioneering collaborations with ISRO

With a 7-decade legacy and expertise in materials science and engineering, CUMI is pursuing R&D to expand collaboration with ISRO in mission-critical areas. One such area is developing thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) for rocket nozzles. TBCs are widely used as in the manufacture of aircraft engines to protect areas exposed to extreme heat, in the maintenance and overhaul of critical aero-engine components, and in space launch vehicles. Their high thermal resistance and anti-corrosive properties offering protection from wear & tear helps increase component longevity. The materials are currently under qualification.

We also received the Process Certificate for Metallization of Alumina Substrates from the Space Applications Centre, ISRO. It clearly demonstrates our advanced capabilities in the triple layer metallization process on Alumina substrates and enables us to ramp up production for flight use. These substrates are used for electronic components in space vehicles. CUMI is among the only manufacturers of this product in the country. The prestigious certification was awarded to our Industrial Ceramics division in Hosur in May 2024.

With the spotlight on indigenous innovation in India’s ambitious space missions such as Gaganyaan and Shukrayaan, materials science will remain at the core of such efforts. Greater collaboration between private entities, government agencies, and academia on cutting-edge research will accelerate our endeavours and ensure continued success of the nation’s ambitions.

23, Aug 2024
ASG Vasan Eye Hospital, Thrissur Expands Cataract Department

Thrissur, 23rd August, 2024– ASG Vasan Eye Hospital, Thrissur announces the expansion of its Cataract department in the hospital. With the addition of availability of cataract surgeons, patients can now access expert care for any type of cataract surgery. There will be free OP treatment for senior citizens from August 24 to September 24 at ASG Vasan Eye Hospitals.

ASG Vasan Eye Hospital Press Conference

Cataracts commonly develop due to aging or injury, which causes changes in the lens tissue, leading to the breakdown of proteins and fibers and resulting in cloudy vision. People over 60 often begin to experience this clouding. At Vasan, multiple treatment options are available, and the experts carefully assess the condition to select the most effective solution for every issue.

The state-of-the-art facilities at ASG Vasan Eye Hospital adhere to international standards, ensuring a comfortable and advanced environment for all eye care needs. The team of highly skilled doctors is led by Dr. Sony George -Senior Consultant, Head -Cataract & Refractive Surgery. The team also includes Dr. Priya K.S -Consultant & Surgeon- Cataract and Dr. Anaswara M John- Consultant Ophthalmologist and Cornea Specialist.

“With state-of-the-art equipment and expert surgeons, the cataract department will undoubtedly help more patients regain their vision and improve their quality of life. Our team of experts utilizes the latest technology and treatment options to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients,” said Dr. Sony George -Senior Consultant, Head -Cataract & Refractive Surgery.

ASG Vasan Eye Hospital is committed to delivering high-tech and affordable ophthalmic care. The hospital offers comprehensive eye care services, including cataract surgery, refractive surgery, vision rehabilitation services, neuro-ophthalmology, uveitis, retina, glaucoma, cornea, and oculoplasty services.

With centers spread across major cities in Kerala such as Thrissur, Calicut, Kochi, Kottayam, and Trivandrum, ASG Vasan Eye Hospital is accessible to a wide range of patients. The hospital accepts all insurances and is empaneled with the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), ensuring accessible eye care for all.

Dr. Sony George -Senior Consultant, Head- Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Dr. Priya K.S -Consultant & Surgeon- Cataract and Dr. Anaswara M John- Consultant Ophthalmologist and Cornea Specialist spoke at the press conference held in Thrissur ASG Vasan Eye Hospital.

23, Aug 2024
5 Inspiring Women in HR Tech Who Are Redefining Talent Acquisition

In today’s competitive job market, talent acquisition has become more challenging and complex than ever. Companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract, assess, and hire the best candidates. This is where HR Tech plays a crucial role, revolutionizing traditional hiring processes and making them more efficient, inclusive, and data-driven. Among the many leaders driving this transformation, a group of inspiring women stands out for their exceptional contributions to the HR Tech industry.

Despite advancements made in recent times, women continue to be underrepresented in the tech industry, encountering obstacles like unconscious bias, gender wage disparities, and a scarcity of female role models. Nonetheless, numerous accomplished women in tech have made noteworthy contributions to the field, serving as inspirations for all, particularly young women, aspiring to pursue careers in technology. In today’s ever-evolving work environment, the role of Human Resources (HR) leaders has expanded beyond conventional boundaries. An extraordinary transformation is underway, spearheaded by a group of exceptional Indian women who are not only climbing the corporate ladder but also reshaping the HR landscape with their remarkable vision and determination.

These women entrepreneurs are not just shaping the future of talent acquisition; they are redefining what it means to find and hire talent in a digital-first world. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics, these trailblazers are developing innovative solutions that enhance candidate experience, streamline recruitment processes, and promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace

Let’s delve into the stories of these 4 extraordinary Indian women who are redefining the contours of HR leadership and shaping the future of work.

Yogita Tulsiani, iXceed Solutions:-
Yogita is the Director & Co-founder of iXceed Solutions . The dynamic Ms Yogita Tulsiani is armed with a Master’s in Business Administration from ISB, Hyderabad. The versatile businessperson has more than a decade of experience in Business Development and Consultancy across various industries in the UK, USA, Europe and APAC. Her repertoire includes an illustrious clientele in the Financial Services, Telecom, Retail, Information Technology and Learning industries like Genpact Headstrong and HP.

Asma Thorve, Empowered LMS:-
Asma is the co-founder of Empowered LMS, Asma is an experienced professional with 20+ years of industry experience. A large part of this has been spent in the learning technology space, thus making her an industry veteran who has seen the learning technology space evolve over this period. With marque customers using their solutions, Enthralltech is an established player in this space. Her company won the Asia Tech Innovation award in 2016 thus underlying the innovative solution they bring to their customers.

Geetha Prabhu, WorkFlexi.in:-
Geetha Prabhu is the Founder of WorkFlexi.in.With the growing need of flexible work in organizations of all sizes, Geetha is looking to solve the problem through her solution. By connecting companies with individuals seeking these flexible work assignments she is addressing a key gap in the talent acquisition solution set in the Indian HR Tech space. With her deep expertise in market research one would assume that she has enough insights about this space to solve this challenge.

Shelly Singh, PeopleStrong:-

Shelly Singh is the co-founder of PeopleStrong . After a short stint as HR professional Shelly identified a business challenge and co-founded PeopleStrong in 2002. Since then PeopleStrong has grown to be one of the most successful entrepreneurial journeys in the Indian ecosystem. As a chief business officer, she continues to build a strong brand for the organization while also anchoring the strategic and operational initiatives at PeopleStrong. She was identified as “Thought leader of the year” in 2014 by the HRO Today, Asia Pacific forum.

23, Aug 2024
Beauty Garage Sets Record with Nine Hair Care Events Across India in One Day

Mumbai…August 23, 2024… Beauty Garage Professional, a true “Made in India” brand, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully celebrating nine unique events across India in a single day. This remarkable feat was undertaken to promote hair care awareness and extend support to salons nationwide, further cementing Beauty Garage Professional’s reputation as a key player in the beauty industry.

The brand’s initiative included events such as the Beauty Garage Day, dedicated to Botoplexx and Shea treatments, and the Shea/Scalp Sense Day, which was celebrated in four different locations. Additionally, Botoliss Day was recognized twice during the day, showcasing Beauty Garage Professional’s commitment to introducing a wide range of specialized hair care treatments. These events took place across a variety of locations, including major cities such as South Kolkata (near Ganguly Bagan), Gurugram, Patiala, Amritsar, Sangrur, Faridabad, Raipur, and Kandivali West in Mumbai.

The salons that participated in these remarkable events include Jewel Tones Makeover (Kolkata), Headmasters Salon & Spa (Amritsar, Gurugram & Jalandhar), Cut and Style (Gurugram), VTC Salon (Raipur), and Seema’s Salon (Mumbai), Lakme Salon (Kanpur)ensuring that Beauty Garage Professional’s message of high-quality hair care reached a diverse audience across the country.

Beauty Garage Professional demonstrated its unwavering dedication to the salon industry by offering free sampling and complimentary services in all participating salons. This unique gesture was not only aimed at bolstering the business of salon owners but also focused on educating the public about the importance of high-quality hair care routines. The brand’s goal is to promote healthy hair practices and bring awareness to the effectiveness of its products in delivering superior hair care solutions across the country.

Through this initiative, Beauty Garage Professional emphasized that their brand goes beyond just business—it is deeply committed to promoting hair care education and offering support to salons, particularly in a market where professional hair care treatments are increasingly sought after. By connecting with salons across various cities, the brand ensured that its products reached a wider audience, effectively supporting salon businesses while fostering a culture of quality hair care services.

Speaking on the initiative, Mahesh Ravaria, Co-Founder and CEO of Beauty Garage Professional, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “At Beauty Garage Professional, we are committed to supporting the salon industry across India. Our brand is not only focused on business but also on spreading awareness of the importance of hair care. We proudly promote quality hair care treatments in salons, ensuring that salon owners have access to the best products and services. As a true Made in India brand, we strive to be deeply connected with salon owners, providing free sampling and support to elevate hair care standards in our country.”

The record-setting day highlighted Beauty Garage Professional’s dedication to revolutionizing India’s beauty and hair care industry. By empowering salon owners with superior products and encouraging widespread hair care awareness, the brand is setting new standards for the industry. This initiative underlines Beauty Garage Professional’s role as a leader in fostering growth and quality in India’s salon sector while ensuring that the importance of hair care continues to be promoted nationally.

23, Aug 2024
” SCIFF 2024: Bengaluru Schools Join the International Film Festival Movie Screening”

Bengaluru, August 23, 2024 – LXL Foundation is proud to announce the 7th edition of the School Cinema International Film Festival (SCIFF), India’s largest children’s film festival, taking place till August 31st, 2024. Formerly known as the International Kids Film Festival (IKFF), SCIFF is transforming education by bringing global cinema into Indian classrooms. In Bengaluru, SCIFF screenings took place at Royal Concorde International School, ASC Center and College, and Sophia High School. Special guests included Lt. Gen BK Repswal- PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Brig Rohit Sethi, Mrs. Manju Ahlawat- Chairperson, FWO.

Pic 2_L-R - Brig Rohit Sethi, Commandant, ASC Centre (South) -2 ATC, Mr. Syed Sultan Ahmed, Festival Director - SCIFF

At ASC Center and College, in collaboration with the Army Wives Welfare Association, an impactful film screening was held. Students watched Rasmalai, a poignant story of a daughter’s pursuit of sports, challenging her father’s doubts and societal norms; Shera, which followed a boy’s yearning to see an elusive leopard before leaving his village; and Hoofs on Skates, a winter tale emphasizing communication and courage. Meanwhile, parents were treated to their own screenings, featuring Best Friends Forever and Try Hard, both exploring themes of independence and ambition.

Spearheaded by Syed Sultan Ahmed, an educationist, visionary, filmmaker, and the master mind behind Film Pedagogy, SCIFF 2024 is more than a film festival – it’s a movement. This year’s event brings together 80+ films in 15+ languages from over 20 countries, showcasing diverse themes like mental health, social justice, environmental awareness, and security. These films are carefully curated to address contemporary issues faced by students, making the festival a crucial platform for learning and growth. The Film Making competition for students is the third segment of SCIFF, complementing the WATCH and LEARN segments. WATCH features films submitted by global filmmakers for school screenings, while LEARN offers workshops by industry experts to teach students the art of filmmaking.

“Films have the power to shape our world, and SCIFF is more than just a film festival – it’s a catalyst for change,” says Syed Sultan Ahmed, Founder and Chief Learner at LXL Ideas. “By bringing the world to their schools, we’re empowering millions of young minds to dream big, think critically, and become active global citizens. The overwhelming response to SCIFF underscores the urgent need for innovative educational approaches that foster empathy, creativity, and a broader perspective.”

Among the highlights of SCIFF 2024 is the MAKE competition, recognized as the world’s largest student filmmaking contest, offering a global platform for young filmmakers. This year, the festival is further supported by state governments in Rajasthan, Punjab, and Assam, enhancing its impact. Additionally, films focusing on the ‘Human Security for All’ (HS4A) theme are showcased annually, reflecting Syed Sultan Ahmed’s role as a Human Security Ambassador with the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security.

The festival’s jury features a distinguished lineup of global experts: Aya Al-Blouchi, Ajyal Film Festival Programmer – Qatar; Pauline Mazenod, Head of Film Acquisitions – France; Dhimant Vyas, Animator and Professor at Industrial Design Centre, IIT Powai, Mumbai; Isabelle Morin, Author, Scenarist, and Composer; Nina Sabnani, Animator and Educator; Sayani Gupta, Indian Actress; and Mrs. Pinkey Singh, Principal, Royale Concorde International. Their expertise ensures that the best films receive the recognition.

23, Aug 2024
Economic Prosperity and Infrastructure Upgradation: Catalyst of NCR’s Realty Market

NCR has witnessed a profound transformation in its real estate landscape, driven primarily by continuous infrastructure development and economic growth. Over the past decade, NCR has seen a flurry of infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity, easing traffic congestion, and boosting economic activities. India’s infrastructure sector has also witnessed significant foreign direct investment (FDI), amounting to INR 207 billion over the last five years, bolstered by robust economic fundamentals, according to the Annarock report.

Infrastructure developments not only enhance mobility but also spur job creation, thereby supporting economic growth across sectors. The government’s ambitious goal to achieve a $5 trillion economy by 2025 underscores the critical role of the real estate and infrastructure sectors. Both sectors are integral to economic growth and complement each other’s progress. With the constant upgradation in physical and social infrastructure, NCR’s real estate market is poised for continued prosperity, attracting investments and driving urban development initiatives.

Real estate demand in Noida is significantly driven by its robust connectivity infrastructure and enhanced living standards. Positioned strategically, the city enjoys easy accessibility via major roadways such as the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway and Yamuna Expressway, facilitating seamless intra-city and inter-city travel. The upcoming Jewar Airport in Greater Noida further enhances connectivity, fostering commercial and hospitality developments in its vicinity. Noida has emerged as a key economic center, attracting a diverse array of multinational corporations, IT firms, and startups.

Noida’s real estate sector thrives on its strategic location, enhanced connectivity, and supportive infrastructure development. These factors not only bolster economic activities but also position the city as a preferred destination for luxury living and business activity. Projects like Prateek Grand City located in Siddharth Vihar, and Prateek Canary in sec-150 Noida are offering residents a home that seamlessly blends luxury with natural surroundings. Prateek Grand City in Siddharth Vihar stands out as the only developed township in the Ghaziabad region. Focused on providing an upgraded lifestyle to its residents, the township is likely to see a new addition to it very soon.

Besides, the establishment of IT parks, corporate offices, and shopping malls has not only attracted multinational companies but has also created employment opportunities, thereby driving demand for residential properties in nearby areas. Retail developments have also followed suit, with malls and retail hubs strategically located along expressways and metro corridors to capitalize on the increasing consumer footfall. These retail spaces offer a mix of international and domestic brands, entertainment options, and dining experiences, catering to the evolving lifestyle preferences of urban dwellers.

According to recent reports, NCR continues to attract substantial investments in both residential and commercial sectors, with developers focusing on delivering integrated townships and mixed-use developments that offer a holistic living and working experience. With over 50% increase in property values and a 30% rise in commercial investments post-infrastructural advancements, Noida is not just a city; it’s a thriving economic hub. This synergy between infrastructure development and real estate growth not only enhances the quality of life but also establishes Noida as a premier destination for long-term investment and sustainable development.

The symbiotic relationship between infrastructure upgradation, economic prosperity, and the realty market in NCR underscores the region’s status as a prime investment destination. With significant investments in metro expansions, road networks, and smart city initiatives, NCR has witnessed a surge in property demand and value appreciation.