8, Jul 2024
BIPF’s ‘Professor Ghanashyam Dash Scholarship’ (PGDS) 2023 awardees felicitated
Bhubaneswar, 5th July 2024: Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF), the social development arm of Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys Limited (IMFA) felicitated the recipients of the ‘Professor Ghanashyam Dash Scholarship for Higher Education’ (PGDS) for the academic year 2023-2024 today.
Every year the PGDS annual scholarship is awarded to six meritorious students (domicile of Odisha) to facilitate higher education in the fields of engineering, medicine and liberal arts across India. In the 19th edition of the PGDS initiative, four students—Mr. K.V.M Prassana Kumar, Mr. Priyanshu Panda, Mr. Himanshu Sekhar Patra, and Ms. Priyanka Dalai—have been awarded scholarships to pursue engineering at IIIT Dharwad, IIT Madras, IGIT Sarang, and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, respectively. Additionally, Mr. Prayas Rout and Ms. Abhipsa Chowdhury have been awarded scholarships to pursue medicine at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
The students were felicitated in the esteemed presence of Guest of Honour, Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Prof. (Dr.) Ashutosh Biswas; Trustee & Founder CEO of Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation, Ms. Shaifalika Panda, along with other distinguished senior officials from BIPF.
The PGDS initiative covers upto 90% of the academic fees and eligible expenses for selected candidates. It reserves a maximum of INR 6 lakhs per awardee to support the students in completing their four-year professional studies.
Beyond financial support, recipients are also eligible for ‘Utsah,’ an exclusive mentorship program run by BIPF. Through this program, students receive mentorship from IMFA executives, providing regular counseling, moral support, academic guidance, networking opportunities, and assistance in realizing their full potential for a well-planned career trajectory.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Shaifalika Panda- Trustee & Founder CEO, Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation, elaborated, “Education has the power to transform. The PGDS was instituted with the aim to contribute to a progressive-inclusive-equitable society where ‘no one is left behind’. This opportunity allows our recipients to unleash themselves from the shackles of their socio-economic barriers onto their journey of professional success.”
Furthermore, Guest of Honour, Prof (Dr) Ashutosh Biswas, Executive Director & CEO, AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, emphasized that true success stems from integrity and values, and said, “While academic excellence is crucial, it is your societal contributions that will determine your lasting achievements. Balance your academic pursuits with nurturing humanity and actively serve the community to make a meaningful impact.”
Instituted in 2005 by IMFA, this scholarship is named after the renowned historian Late Prof. Ghanashyam Dash, father of late Mrs. Ila Panda. It aims to provide equal opportunity through financial assistance to meritorious students and facilitate higher education. PGDS 2024 application process will begin in August 2024 through the BIPF website.
About Bansidhar and Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF)
In 2011, the Bansidhar and Ila Panda Foundation (BIPF) was established to implement sustainable and scalable interventions in the areas of health, education, livelihood and water sanitation. BIPF is structured to partner and collaborate with the Central and State governments as well as local and international organisations to implement programs and drive results for the marginalised communities of Odisha. Skilling & training of rural youth, helping rural household women on being self-reliant, health & hygiene of adolescent girls are some of our key initiatives spread across six districts in Odisha (Cuttack, Rayagada, Keonjhar, Jajpur, Angul and Khorda) touching lives of more than 21 lakhs beneficiaries.
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- By Rabindra
8, Jul 2024
Survey of Active Retired Military Members and Their Family on Health
Oxon Hill, MD, July 08, 2024 — The PMW Foundation (PMWF) has released the findings of a groundbreaking survey that sheds light on the health concerns and needs of African American military members and their families. Conducted from September 1, 2023, to November 1, 2023, the survey gathered data from 1,004 validated respondents, with 91.67% identifying as African American and 8.33% as biracial (African American/White).
Of the respondents, 70% either currently serve or have served in the military, while the remaining 30% are military-connected family members. The survey encompassed individuals from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, focusing on their health perceptions, concerns, and needs. Notably, all respondents reported having a physician or healthcare provider, with over 41% utilizing the VA Health system.
The results of this comprehensive and statistically significant survey are both revealing and alarming, highlighting critical deficiencies in health information and outreach within the African American military community. The data obtained provides a unique opportunity for targeted health awareness and outreach efforts to address the specific needs of this underrepresented population.
Key findings from the survey include:
• The majority of respondents rated their own health as fair to good, while the health of their family members was generally perceived as good to fair.
• Respondents identified a wide range of health conditions and illnesses affecting themselves and their families.
• An overwhelming 91.67% of respondents had visited a physician or healthcare provider within the last two years, underscoring the importance of regular healthcare access.
• Of those surveyed, 58.33% had seen their primary care physician for a routine check-up in the past year, emphasizing the importance of preventative care.
• A significant 75% of respondents reported taking prescription medications, highlighting the prevalence of medical treatment within the community.
• Despite a strong desire to improve their health, only 25% of respondents felt adequately equipped with the knowledge and tools to do so, indicating a need for enhanced health education and resources.
• Concerningly, all respondents expressed a lack of adequate healthcare availability for the retired military community, signaling a critical gap in healthcare services.
• While trust in healthcare information varied, 100% of respondents placed their trust in their doctor or healthcare provider, with only 16.67% expressing trust in the VA Medical system.
• Furthermore, 66.7% of respondents felt that health information was not specifically targeted towards them, indicating a need for more tailored messaging and outreach efforts.
This survey, one of the largest of its kind of African American/Black military and military-connected individuals in the United States, represents a significant step towards understanding and addressing the unique perspectives and needs of this community. Further, we believe that the information can be extrapolated to other underrepresented minority populations and the military community at large. . The insights gleaned from this research will inform targeted health initiatives and advocacy efforts aimed at bridging the existing gaps in health information and outreach. The health concerns and disparities are rampant in this segment of the military and military connected population.
Jerome Williams, Colonel USAF Retired, serving as the Executive Director of the PMW Foundation, has issued a powerful call to action in response to the concerning findings revealed by one of the largest surveys of African American military and military-connected individuals.
“This survey illuminates the persistent trust barriers that exist within the veteran community, particularly in relation to the Veteran’s Administration, “Mr. Williams stressed the importance of conscientious steps to address the profound health disparities among those under the care of the VA. “The trust barriers that remain highlights the need for the Veteran’s Administration to make conscientious steps and develop novel ways to address cultural competency and action to impact the glaring health disparities amongst those under its care; especially those who face steep health disparities.”
The survey findings underscore the pressing need for immediate action to bridge the existing gaps in health information, access, and outreach for African American military and military-connected individuals. The PMW Foundation and its partners are committed to leveraging this data to advocate for meaningful change and to support initiatives that uplift and empower African Americans within the military community. By collaborating with stakeholders and policymakers, the foundation aims to drive positive outcomes and improve the health outcomes of those who have served this country.
The PMW Foundation and its partners including but not limited to Healthywomen.org are committed to advocating for meaningful change and driving initiatives that uplift and empower this underserved community, improving the health outcomes and well-being of those who have selflessly served their country.
8, Jul 2024
Mahalakshmi Profiles Awarded FTCCI Excellence for Top-tier Industrial Performance
Hyderabad, July 8th, 2024..….Mahalakshmi Profiles bags FTCCI Excellence Award in industrial all-round performance in the large industries category. Mrs Banita Agarwal, Mrs Sowmya Agarwal, and Mrs. Shriya Agarwal received the award through the hands of Mr. D. Sridhar Babu Minister of Industries and IT, Govt of Telangana, and Dr Mallu Ravi, Member of Parliament in a function held on Friday night at Federation House in Red Hills.
In 1959, we were the first re-rolling steel mill in Andhra Pradesh. In 1995, we set up South India’s first narrow-width strip mill. Since the beginning, the MPL Group has been committed to manufacturing superior products for the metal industry. With a team of experienced and devoted leaders at its helm, the company has emerged as a profit-making institution under the MPL Group and is committed to providing iron and steel solutions to the country’s requirements said Mrs. Banitya Agarwal.
Presently, we employ 1500 people directly and nearly 10,000 others in varying capacities. In 1996, M/s. Mahalakshmi Profiles Pvt. Ltd began its journey as the producer of Hot Rolled Strips/Flats. As a product, it has multiple applications especially in the manufacturing of M.S. ERW and galvanized pipes, W Straps for collieries, and Rolling Shutters. The primary input in the production process of Hot Rolled Strips/Flats is M.S. Billets adds Mrs Sowya Agarwal.
This accolade serves as a powerful testament to our company’s exceptional performance, dedication, and unwavering commitment. It reflects the collective hard work and relentless efforts of our remarkable team, particularly the women members who symbolize empowerment said Banita, Sowmya, and Shriya.
Today’s award is a testament to our commitment to excellence in our industry! We feel proud to say that the vision of Our founder Lt Sri Mohanlalji Agarwal has shaped us to what we are today and shall continue to uphold the moral values and principles he followed, they added.
MPL Group’s portfolio of offerings comprises a varied range of products such as Scaffolding Systems, MS Pipes, HR Coils/Strips, CI ingot Moulds and other MS/CI castings, and Direct Reduced Iron (DRI). The group has also started manufacturing 53 Grade Ordinary Portland Cement. Our products sold under the registered brand name MPL command high brand value in the South Indian market.
8, Jul 2024
New Era for Animal Care in India: Largest Veterinary Hospital Opens – Set Up At 5,100 Sqft Area And INR 3crore Donors Contributions
The facility was set up with donations from animal lovers
The facility is equipped to perform 3000 surgeries per annum and treat 40,000 cattle in OPD per annum
Hyderabad, July 07, 2024……Maa Saraswathi, one of the biggest Veterinary Hospitals in India and South India’s biggest veterinary hospital, set up at Rs 3crore, donations given by philanthropists and animal lovers at Satya Shivam Sundaram Gau Seva Kendra, Burujgadda, Peddashapur Thanda near Samshabad inaugurated on Sunday.
Spread over a 5,100 sqft area with an ambulance, operation theatre, intensive care unit, a host of diagnostic facilities, and a medical dispensary, 5 veterinary doctors, five assistants, and five para medical staff with specialised doctors, surgeons was formally inaugurated by Ruhi and Mehr, the grandchildren of Dharamraj Ranka, 85 years old man behind it, on behalf of donors and their family members.
Giving details Dr Nishita Ranka, a Dermatologist, and granddaughter of Shri Dharamraj Ranka, the facility is equipped to do up to 10 surgeries a day as well as handling 100 animals a day. According to her, as per the initial estimates, it is expected to perform 3000 surgeries a year and treat about 36,000 animals per annum in OPD.
The state-of-the-art Veterinary Hospital will not only take care of 6000 cows sheltered at Satya Shivam Sundaram Gau Shala (3200), Gaganpahad; 2800 cows at Satya Shivam Sundaram Gau Seva Kendra at Burujugadda, but would also serve animals such as sheep, goats, dogs of surrounding areas.
Maa Saraswathi Veterinary Hospital is set up with donations from animal lovers. It is self-contained, equipped with modern diagnostics, an X-ray machine, an Endoscope, a Blood-insulin Analyzer and many other such facilities.
Satyan Shivam Sundaram Cow Shelter is already well known for sheltering 3200 cows at Gaganpahad and 2800 at Burujugadda for the past so many years and is said to be the biggest cow shelter in South India.
The Maa Saraswathi Veterinary Hospital is a long-felt dream of 85-year-old Dharam Raj Ranka, a city’s retired jeweller who has been on the mission of saving cows for the past 30 years. He has been going around barefooted man and has been working on the mission in the protection of India’s most revered animal ‘The cow’ for the past 30 years
Dharam Raj Ranka has been fighting for the rights of cows since 1991. What started as a small effort with 200 cows is now only increasing in number and support. Today, the 6000 cows at both places are given shelter, fodder and medical support. Above all, they’re given love, respect, and dignity and cows are treated royally. State-of-the-art veterinary hospital for animals has been Rankaji’s lifetime dream which is fulfilled now.
8, Jul 2024
NCBCP Black Women’s Roundtable Successfully Hosted 10th Annual Women of Power
New Orleans, LA, July 08, 2024 — The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP) and the Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR), in partnership with Mississippi BWR and Louisiana BWR Louisiana, kicked off Essence festivities with “Power Table” discussions during their 10th Annual Women of Power Jazz Brunch and Gathering during Essence Festival 2024. Held at the Hyatt Regency in New Orleans on July 5, 2024, the event brought together Black women nationwide to include prominent media personalities, national civil rights, and legacy organization leaders for a series of dynamic discussions.
The event featured two compelling Power Tables:
· Achieving Racial, Economic, and Social Justice
· Unleashing the Power of the Black Youth Vote: Bold Demands for 2024
Leaders explored critical themes such as the pivotal role of Black women in the 2024 presidential election, findings from recent polling conducted by BWR in collaboration with Essence and HIT Strategies, and pressing issues affecting Black youth and adults, including economic equality, healthcare access, and reproductive rights. Attendees engaged in proactive dialogue to shape policies and mobilize voter engagement initiatives within their communities.
“We brought together Black women leaders across generations to ‘party with a purpose’ for Essence Fest’s 30th anniversary and to strategize on the importance of leveraging the power of the Black women’s vote and the Black youth vote in the 2024 Presidential Election,” said Melanie L. Campbell, President and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and National Convener of the Black Women’s Roundtable. “This election will determine if we have a democracy or a dictatorship. Voting rights, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, workers’ rights, affirmative action, access to economic opportunity, education, and the freedom to learn black history are all on the ballot. We will use the power of our ballots to fight for our rights, freedom, and opportunity for future generations, and we will win!”
8, Jul 2024
Nicole Rhone Launches Inaugural Capacity Conference in Chicago, IL
Chicago, IL, July 08, 2024 — Nicole Rhone, Founder of The Capacity Conference and CEO of Flourishing, is proud to announce the inaugural Capacity Conference, scheduled to take place in Chicago, IL, on August 1 and 2. The conference will feature an incredible lineup of speakers delivering workshops and panel discussions, with tons of networking opportunities. Attendees can expect to step away from their everyday routines and gain valuable insights into creating healthy habits, cultivating personal wellness, and building thriving businesses from experts across the United States. This is the premier event of the year for women who are ready to break up with burnout and learn how to put themselves at the TOP of the ‘TO-DO’ List.
Nicole is known to the world as the Capacity Coach, and her journey to founding The Capacity Conference was deeply personal. After years of silently grappling with the challenges of balancing competing priorities at home and work, she found herself facing a health crisis due to neglecting her well-being. This experience catalyzed her commitment to helping other career and entrepreneurial women proactively manage their capacity and avoid similar struggles.
“What I find most rewarding is when my clients realize they don’t have to sacrifice themselves for success,” says Nicole. “Helping individuals set boundaries, manage priorities, and achieve work-life balance brings me immense satisfaction. Similarly, working with organizations to increase productivity and employee engagement through capacity management is deeply fulfilling.”
This year, the Capacity Conference aims to be the event for emerging and established women leaders and entrepreneurs ready to break free from burnout, optimize their time, and amplify their impact, personally and professionally. “At the Capacity Conference, our mission is to bring together high-achieving and purpose-driven women to strengthen their leadership capabilities in all aspects of their lives,” said Nicole Rhone. “Our theme of healthy habits, healthy people, healthy business reflects our commitment to holistic development, addressing the core areas of her five Capacity Pillars (heart flow, workflow, health flow, cash flow, and faith flow).”
The Capacity Conference seeks attendees who are ready to get the tools and resources needed to make room for what matters most, and learn from women who “get it” and who’ve been in their shoes. “We invite attendees and sponsors to seize this opportunity to connect with professionals who can become valuable customers and partners,” added Nicole Rhone. Partnerships through financial support and key stakeholders’ involvement opportunities are available. Sponsors can showcase their commitment to women’s personal and professional development, gain exposure to an audience of approximately 200+ women, and support diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) initiatives.
6, Jul 2024
Celebrating Maritime Excellence at AGMS 2024 and AGMA 2024
July 6, 2024, Chennai, Tamil Nadu : The AMET Global Maritime Summit 2024 (AGMS 2024) and AMET Global Maritime Awards 2024 (AGMA 2024), organized by the Dr. J Ramachandran Maritime Foundation and AMET University, concluded successfully recently, at the Anna Centenary Library Auditorium in Chennai, India. The event brought together over 1,250 participants from the maritime industry, academia, and related sectors globally. AMET University, a premier maritime education institution in India, continues to lead the way in providing world-class maritime education and training, driven by the visionary leadership of Dr. J. Ramachandran.
Summit Highlights
AGMS 2024 centered on the theme “Charting the Future of Maritime Excellence”, featuring insightful panel discussions, technical sessions, and keynote addresses from industry leaders. The summit provided a platform for discussing the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities in the maritime sector.
Keynote Speakers and Distinguished Guests
Col. Dr. G. Thiruvasagam, Pro-Chancellor (Academics) of AMET University and Member-Secretary of the Dr. J Ramachandran Maritime Foundation, delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the summit’s role in addressing shipping industry needs and aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event was presided over by Dr. J Ramachandran, Founder-Chancellor of AMET University. In his presidential address, Dr. Ramachandran highlighted India’s advancements in the shipping and logistics industry and the significant role of AMET University. He emphasized the importance of continuous industry-academia collaboration, innovation, and strategic initiatives to propel maritime education and the industry forward, with a focus on sustainability, collaboration, and innovation to address global challenges.
Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping and Additional Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Govt. of India, delivered the inaugural address, highlighting India’s significant advancements in the shipping and logistics industry over the past decade and outlining a vision for the next few decades. He emphasized the importance of innovation and resilience in maritime operations with special focus on Maritime Safety and discussed India’s initiatives on decarbonizing shipping and enhancing port capacity.
Dr. Rajesh Ramachandran, Pro-Chancellor of AMET University and Dr. J Ramachandran Maritime Foundation, addressed the critical challenges facing the shipping industry, emphasizing the need for knowledge sharing, innovation, and digitization to enhance operational efficiencies and sustainability. He positioned AGMS as a significant platform for uniting policymakers, industry leaders, seafarers, students, and stakeholders.
Prof. Adam Weintrit, Chair of the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) and Rector of Gdynia Maritime Academy, highlighted India’s robust growth in the maritime industry. He underscored the importance of global summits in bringing together diverse stakeholders to exchange ideas crucial for industry advancement. Prof. Dr. V Rajendran, Vice Chancellor of AMET University delivered the Felicitation Address.
Panel Discussions and Technical Sessions
AGMS 2024 featured two significant panel discussions and an engaging Fireside Chat in which Capt. Karan Kochhar, Capt. Arun Mehta, Capt. Man Mohan Saggi, Ms. Sonali Banerjee, Capt. Ashutosh Apandkar, Capt. Ajay Gangadharan, Mr. Sunil Kumar, C/E Mr. Koki Pannerselvam, Mr. Nipun Chatrath and Capt. K. Karthik, Capt. Arvind Shankar and Capt. Sundeep Inkurthy have shared their intellectual inputs. Dr. Sangeetha Albin, the convener of the AGMS 2024 and Additional Registrar of AMET has coordinated technical sessions covering themes such as Maritime Education and Training, Maritime Technology Innovations, Maritime Management Strategies, and Maritime Sustainability, with over 70 research and lead articles presented by industry professionals and academicians.
Valedictory Ceremony and AGMA Awards 2024
His Excellency Mr. Haymandoyal Dillum, CSK, High Commissioner, High Commission of the Republic of Mauritius, New Delhi delivered the Chief Guest Address at the Valedictory Ceremony and presented AGMA Awards 2024. He praised AMET University for its dedication to maritime education and emphasized the critical role of maritime trade in the economy. He highlighted challenges such as maritime safety, security, and environmental issues, while also recognizing opportunities in e-learning, professional development, and capacity building.
The prestigious AGMA Awards 2024 honoured outstanding individuals and institutions in the maritime industry. AGMA 2024 Awardees are: AGMA Maritime Leadership Award 2024 – Individual Category: Ms. Nynne Norman Scheuer, Senior Director, Head of Marine People & Culture, A.P. Moller-Maersk, Denmark; AGMA Maritime Leadership Award 2024 – Individual Category: VADM Eduardo Ma R Santos, AFP (RET), President of the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP), Philippines; AGMA Maritime Excellence Award 2024 – Institution Category: The Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP), Philippines; AGMA Maritime Innovation Award 2024 – Innovation Category: Mr. Suraj Singh, Founder CEO of Seaker Systems Pvt. Ltd., Maharashtra, India.
In his commendation address, Dr. J Ramachandran emphasized the importance of fostering maritime excellence and innovation to address future challenges in the industry. He highlighted the strong partnership between Maersk and AMET, particularly their collaborative efforts in establishing the Maersk Centre of Excellence that provides Admission with Appointment order to maritime cadets. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Deepa Rajesh, Vice President (Academics) and Convener AGMA 2024, acknowledging the dedicated efforts of the organizing committee, distinguished guests, panelists, speakers, and participants.
The AMET Global Maritime Summit (AGMS) and AMET Global Maritime Awards (AGMA) will continue to serve as premier platforms for recognizing and promoting excellence in the maritime sector.
5, Jul 2024
Health Compiler to Sponsor Hint Summit 2024, Elevating Direct Care
Denver, CO, July 05, 2024 — Health Compiler is thrilled to announce its sponsorship and active participation in the eagerly awaited Hint Summit 2024. This prestigious event, set to take place at the Infinity Park Event Center, will bring together Direct Primary Care (DPC) enthusiasts, pioneers, and innovators to propel the Direct Care movement and explore its transformative impact on the U.S. healthcare system.
Recognized as the foremost conference for the Direct Primary Care community, Hint Summit has established itself as a pivotal gathering for industry professionals. The 2024 summit, themed “Elevating Healthcare: DPC’s Climb to Mainstream,” aims to inspire and drive the growth and widespread adoption of DPC.
Hint Summit is more than just a conference – It’s a celebration of DPC movement and an opportunity to build, educate and inspire our community. Whether you’re new to DPC or a seasoned veteran, Hint Summit offers invaluable insights and connections to accelerate your journey,” stated Zak Holdsworth, CEO of Hint Health.
The Health Compiler team is eager to engage with fellow attendees, share expertise, and showcase our cutting-edge analytics solution. “Our platform is designed to support the expansion and success of DPC practices, contributing significantly to the broader Direct Care movement,” said Mehul Agarwal, founder of Health Compiler. “We are committed to demonstrating how our advanced analytics and marketing solutions can empower DPC providers to enhance their digital presence, streamline operations, and connect more effectively with their patients.”
5, Jul 2024
Halma India’s New CSR Initiative Promotes a Healthy Community
Friday, July 5, 2024, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India : Halma India announces the launch of “Gramha Samruddhi,” a long-term corporate social responsibility (CSR) project reinforcing its purpose and commitment to improving the quality of life and driving sustainable development of rural communities.
During the next three years, more than 120 families living in N Hosur village could benefit from access to free health screenings, medicine, waste management and clean water. Volunteers will help farmers plant fruit-bearing crops across community spaces.
The project is rolled out in collaboration with Shree Sai Healing Trust (SSHT), an NGO with over 20 years of experience and healthcare programmes across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Kerala and West Bengal. Halma India and SSHT will work closely to find sustainable solutions to bring positive change and implement initiatives to make N Hosur a cleaner, healthier and self-sustainable village.
“At SSHT, we recognise the role of a community in enriching and strengthening the programme. Gramha Samruddhi, which means a prosperous village, is based on a comprehensive need assessment and due diligence to understand the various local issues and unique challenges faced by the people, especially women, children and elderly in the village,” said Hemanth Kumar, Trustee, SSHT
“We have always focused on active community engagement and will involve local residents in every aspect of the project. This participatory approach ensures that interventions are culturally sensitive, sustainable, and tailored to the specific needs.”
“As a global group of life-saving technologies, our purpose is to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day. Gramha Samruddhi aligns with our purpose and is one of the means to make a positive difference in the lives of the most vulnerable through our sincere efforts and technologies wherever possible,” said Prasenjit Datta, Managing Director, Halma India.
“The project deploys a community-led approach to address healthcare, education, environment and livelihood needs and empowers Halma India CSR volunteers to bring their collective expertise, knowledge and interest to shape meaningful outcomes. Congratulations to all our CSR volunteers from Halma companies Ampac, AAi, Keeler and Sofis and various core functions in India for their efforts, collaboration, and commitment towards fulfilling our CSR vision.”
5, Jul 2024
Kargil War – The Turning Point book launched in Bengaluru by Governor of Arunachal Pradesh
Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Launches Kargil War Book
In a glittering ceremony on 3rd July at the Army Officers Institute in Bengaluru, Lt Gen K T Parnaik (retd), the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, launched a book titled “Kargil War – The Turning Point”. Authored by late Col M B Ravindranath, VrC, a war hero and son of the soil hailing from Davangere, the memoir vividly recalls the challenges that the author and his unit 2 RAJ RIF faced, as they attacked Tololing during the Kargil War 25 years ago. Several attacks to evict the Pakistani troops from the formidable Himalayan heights had failed, when Ravi and his warriors went into battle at Tololing. After a bitterly fought battle, 2 RAJ RIF soldiers stood victorious on Tololing at dawn on 13 June 99. This was the Turning Point in the war, and Indian troops thereafter destroyed several Pakistani posts in the next month, and evicted the treacherous Pakistani Army in the Drass – Kargil Sector.
Col MB Ravindranath, VrC, who hails from Davangere is an alumnus of Sainik School Bijapur and NDA, Pune. He was the Commanding Officer of 2 RAJ RIF when the unit moved into the Drass area to evict Pakistani soldiers from the heights overlooking the Leh Highway. He led his unit to victory, and after his unit command was over, he took premature retirement and returned to his roots to handle the family business. He penned his experiences passionately before he passed away in April 2018 after a massive heart attack.
The book Kargil War – The Turning Point traces the events of those months, as Ravi prepared his infantrymen for the battles, the fears that he had to overcome, the plans that he made and finally his leadership on the icy mountain ridges during the attacks. The book also highlights the sacrifice of bravehearts like Major Acharya, MVC, Major Vivek Gupta, MVC, Lt Kenguruse, MVC, Capt Vijayant Thapar, VrC and such others. At the book launch event organized by Ravindranath’s family, several of his colleagues and friends joined and paid tribute to him. Lt Gen Mohinder Puri (retd), Ravi’s Division Commander during the war described Ravindranath’s commitment, resilience, courage and bold leadership. Lt Gen KT Parnaik, the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh described how the troops fight for the honour of their units, their clans and for the nation. He highlighted his personal association with late Col M B Ravindranath. Col David Devasahayam, CMD of the Radiant Group, a corporate leader and colleague of Col Ravindranath, also recalled the commitment and enterprise of Ravindranath. Former Services Chiefs Admiral Karambir Singh, General Manoj Naravane and Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria also graced the book launch ceremony.
“Kargil War – The Turning Point” is an intimate narrative that captures the essence of the courage and resilience of Indian soldiers. Written in a gripping style, the book brings out the formidable positions held by the Pakistanis which our troops overcame valiantly. The Kargil War of 1999 remains a pivotal moment in India’s military history, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Armed Forces in defending the nation’s sovereignty. “Kargil War – The Turning Point” pays homage to these extraordinary individuals and their families, offering readers a poignant insight into the sacrifices made and the triumphs achieved during this critical period. “Kargil War – The Turning Point” is now available at leading bookstores nationwide and online platforms.
As we celebrate the Rajat Jayanti of the Kargil Victory this month, it is apt to salute our valiant soldiers who guard our frontiers with dedication and fortitude. Jai Hind!
