19, Jan 2024
The Monster Energy Honda Team soak up the pressure
Saudi Arabia, January 19, 2024: Ricky Brabec put in a blistering performance to take his first stage victory of the 2024 Dakar as the finish line draws closer.
With just three days of rallying remaining, there was going to be no let-up on stage ten with more challenges ahead. The day held a total riding distance of 609 km with a 371 km special that would include fast sandy plateaus, some off-piste sections which would really test their navigation skills, and just to throw in some extra confusion, there would still be tracks on the route from stage one and the prologue which could really disorientate them.
After taking the top three spots yesterday it meant that Adrien Van Beveren would be handed the not-so-easy task of opening stage ten followed by Ricky Brabec and Pablo Quintanilla. In what has proven to be a burden to not have any tracks to follow because so much time can be lost, Van Beveren and Brabec shared the duties after 100 km so that they could give themselves the time bonuses on offer today.
Brabec was completely unfazed by riding at the front as the laid-back American acquired over two minutes in bonuses and now has a cushion of nearly eleven minutes in the overall standings to Ross Branch.
Van Beveren found some of the navigation quite complex which caused him to get lost near the end of the stage. Regardless, he soldiered on to finish in third just 20 seconds behind Brabec as he also accrued a healthy four and half minute in bonuses which has seen him cut the deficit overall to second placed Branch. It’s ‘game on’ for the Frenchman who has excelled in this second week of rallying.
Participating in his ninth Dakar Rally, José Ignacio Cornejo has put in some great, consistent performances over the past twelve days and today was no exception. It was all about the number two for the Chilean as despite some small navigational errors he ended the stage in second, an astonishing two seconds behind Brabec, and is now two minutes and two seconds behind Van Beveren for that final podium position.
After getting caught out with the navigation, Pablo Quintanilla rode with Branch and Toby Price to the end of the stage playing it safe as a group to finish the day in eleventh.
The penultimate day looms on the horizon as the battle for the podium positions continue as they head east to Yanbu, across rugged terrain from AlUla where the Red Sea will greet the riders at the end of a draining 480 km special stage.
Ruben Faria (General Manager)
“Tomorrow is stage eleven and David Castera (Dakar Rally organiser) has said it’s going to be the most difficult stage so we need to take care. Ricky will open it with Nacho and Adrien just behind in support, but they are also fighting for the podium.”
Pablo Quintanilla 7 (Stage: 11th; Overall: 11th)
“We were expecting a not-so-difficult day but in the end it was pretty tough with a lot of rocky sections and hard navigation. The last part was not easy to navigate with some tricky notes between the rocks and valleys. It didn’t make much sense for me to push in these conditions when I didn’t feel so confident, it was a case of managing to get to the end safely.”
Ricky Brabec 9 (Stage: 1st; Overall: 1st)
“The day was good although the navigation wasn’t easy. In the first 50 km I was riding into the sun so that was difficult and then once I’d caught Adrien we rode together the whole way. We made some little mistakes here and there, but we came out in a good position for tomorrow and the last day. With two days left we have a little bit of a lead so let’s see what happens tomorrow.”
José Ignacio “Nacho” Cornejo 11 (Stage: 2nd; Overall: 4th)
“It was a tough stage as I woke up with a sore throat this morning. I just tried to push as much as I could without making any navigation mistakes, I made a couple of small ones but nothing major. The fight for the podium is tight so I’ll keep doing my best until the very end.”
Adrien Van Beveren 42 (Stage: 3rd; Overall: 3rd)
“I was expecting another fluid and fast stage but it was far from that. The navigation was tricky and difficult and I really tried to manage it and not get lost. At any rate, coming in first with Ricky after leading the way for so long is yet another solid performance. It’s starting to take a toll physically, and this could tip the scales, but we’ll see how it goes, there are still two days left and we need to stay focused.”
RallyGP Results – Stage 10
| Pos. | Rider | Num | Nation | Team | Constructor | Time/Gap |
| 1 | BRABEC RICKY | 9 | USA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | 3:51:39 |
| 2 | CORNEJO JOSÉ IGNACIO “NACHO” | 11 | CHI | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +0:02 |
| 3 | VAN BEVEREN ADRIEN | 42 | FRA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +0:20 |
| 4 | SANDERS DANIEL | 4 | AUS | Gas Gas Factory Team | Gas Gas | +0:47 |
| 5 | BENAVIDES LUCIANO | 77 | ARG | Husqvarna Factory Racing | Husqvarna | +2:33 |
| 6 | EVAN BRANCH ROSS | 16 | BWA | Hero Motorsports Team Rally | Hero | +3:45 |
| 7 | BENAVIDES KEVIN | 1 | ARG | Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team | KTM | +4:31 |
| 8 | PRICE TOBY | 18 | AUS | Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team | KTM | +6:48 |
| 9 | GONÇALVES RUI | 19 | POR | Sherco TVS Rally Factory | Sherco | +8:02 |
| 10 | MICHEK MARTIN | 10 | CZE | Orion Moto Racing Group | KTM | +9:10 |
| 11 | QUINTANILLA PABLO | 7 | CHI | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | 9.56 |
RallyGP Provisional Standings after Stage 10
| Pos. | Rider | Num | Nation | Team | Constructor | Time/Gap |
| 1 | BRABEC RICKY | 9 | USA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | 44:45:28 |
| 2 | EVAN BRANCH ROSS | 16 | BWA | Hero Motorsports Team Rally | Hero | 10.54 |
| 3 | VAN BEVEREN ADRIEN | 42 | FRA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +11:46 |
| 4 | CORNEJO JOSÉ IGNACIO “NACHO” | 11 | CHI | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +13:48 |
| 5 | BENAVIDES KEVIN | 1 | ARG | Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team | KTM | +32:43 |
| 6 | PRICE TOBY | 18 | AUS | Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team | KTM | +42:00 |
| 7 | BENAVIDES LUCIANO | 77 | ARG | Husqvarna Factory Racing | Husqvarna | +51:42 |
| 8 | SANDERS DANIEL | 4 | AUS | Gas Gas Factory Team | Gas Gas | +01:00:34 |
| 9 | SVITKO STEFAN | 142 | SLO | Slovnaft Rally Team | KTM | +01:39:03 |
| 10 | MICHEK MARTIN | 10 | CZE | Orion Moto Racing Group | KTM | +02:29:45 |
| 11 | QUINTANILLA PABLO | 7 | CHI | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +05:02:41 |
- 0
- By Rabindra
19, Jan 2024
Shradhanjali 2024: A Soulful Homage to Smt. Annapurna Devi Ji and Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji’s Enduring Legacy
New Delhi, January 19, 2024: Shradhanjali, an annual tradition by Birju Maharaj Parampara, served as a heartfelt tribute to the illustrious lives of Smt. Annapurna Devi Ji and Pandit Birju Maharaj Ji at India Habitat Centre in Delhi. Their enduring influence continued to shape the world of classical art, exemplifying values that resonated through their children and grandchildren.
As the death anniversary of Ammaji was commemorated, this year’s Shradhanjali promised an unforgettable experience. The event kicked off on the 18th with a mesmerizing performance by Shri Tribhuwan Maharaj, followed by a soul-stirring vocal presentation by Sushri Vidhi Sharma and a tabla recital by the renowned Pt. Yogesh Samsi.
The feeling each time was special because they were not just our parents; they were also our teachers, who had taught us not just our art but also our way of life. A legacy is something that a person leaves behind to be remembered by, and looking around that day, it was clear that the legacy of both Amma and Babu was undeniable. We will forever strive to build on that legacy further and take it to new heights. It was bowed heads as we honored their lives that day and forever.
In keeping with tradition, the Parampara proudly announced the annual scholarship awarded in the name of Smt. Annapoorna Devi Ji. This year’s deserving recipient was Trisha Gulati, a testament to our commitment to nurturing and supporting emerging talent.
The event was gracefully anchored by Smt. Sadhana Srivastav Ji, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience for the audience.
Attendees joined us on the 18th for Shradhanjali, a celebration of art, heritage, and a tribute to the immortal souls who continue to inspire us.
Details for the 19th January 2024 were announced at the end of the 18th January event, featuring performances by Pt. Jaikishan Maharaj Ji, Ratesh and Rajnish Mishra, Pt. Vishwamohan Bhatt Ji, and Salil Bhatt Ji in a Jugalbandi of Veena Vaadan.
19, Jan 2024
Kankanala Sports Group Launches INDE Racing, India’s First Global Independent Motorsport Team
19th January 2024,– Following the announcement of Kankanala Sports Group (KSG) signing an exclusive nine-year partnership with FIM E-Explorer to oversee races in India, KSG is excited to announce INDE Racing as a new team for the 2024 FIM E-Xplorer season.
This announcement marks India’s first FIM-licensed team in history which also means that it is the first Indian team to compete in any officially-sanctioned international competition.
INDE Racing is set to participate in every round of Season 2, spanning from February to November, traversing the challenging tracks in Japan, Norway, France, Switzerland, and culminating in a triumphant homecoming to India.
Abhishek Reddy Kankanala, the founder of Kankanala Sports Group and INDE Racing, said: “Despite the growing interest in motorsports in India, we have always missed a competitive independent team to cheer for. With the launch of INDE Racing, we aim to break new grounds in Indian motorsports, not only on the racetrack but also in promoting sustainability, gender equality, and the spirit of innovation.”
“By establishing India’s first global motorsports team, we want to inspire a new generation of Indian riders and showcase the nation’s prowess in the world of racing.”
INDE Racing’s resolute pursuit of victory is evident in its meticulously assembled team, celebrating the very best of both Indian and international talents.
The team’s lineup will feature Indian trailblazer, Aishwarya Pissay, Asia’s first female athlete to win a world championship in 2-wheel motorsport. Pissay is poised to represent her homeland across the globe and challenge for another World Title.
“It’s truly exciting to be part of India’s first FIM-licensed team in history. Being able to be part of a project aiming to represent all Indians worldwide and make them proud is a unique opportunity”, said Aishwarya Pissay.
Accompanying her are two seasoned international riders, including Canadian rider Spenser Wilton and Spanish rider Sandra Gomez, the reigning champion of the FIM E-Xplorer World Cup.
“Winning last season was fantastic and now taking on the opportunity to potentially repeat that with this new team in the competition is exciting. Also, I’m thrilled to be part of a project and a team championing gender equality in India and that is also trying to grow motorsports in a country with unparalleled potential”, punctuated Sandra Gomez.
Nevertheless, the team is still looking for a competitive Indian male rider to complete a roster aimed to raise India to the top.
Carina Munte, FIM E-Xplorer Co-Founder, added: “We are thrilled to welcome INDE Racing to our Championship in 2024. Having a pioneering motorsport team from India onboard spotlights how E-Xplorer is pushing boundaries across the globe. Their presence promises to be a significant driver of enthusiasm for a strong Indian fanbase and will act as a catalyst for the promotion of e-mobility and electric motorsport worldwide.”
To master the demanding courses and elevate their performance, INDE Racing has collaborated with KTM34 garage, situated in Europe’s largest moto complex in Mauguio’s Motopark in France. This partnership ensures that the team’s bikes are professionally tuned, delivering the maximum performance capability.
As INDE Racing prepares to join the global racing scene, it stands as a testament to India’s rising prominence in the world of sports.
18, Jan 2024
On National Start-up Day, Amazon miniTV embarks on an inspiring coming-of-age story with Hustlers- Jugad Ka Khel
Mumbai, 18 January 2023: Amazon miniTV – Amazon’s free video streaming service has earned a reputation for constantly pushing the envelope through its diverse content repertoire spanning multiple genres. Taking the same a step forward, the service today, on National Start-up Day, announced its latest entrepreneurial drama Hustlers- Jugad Ka Khel with a riveting teaser. Set in 2010, the show will highlight the intricacies of the start-up boom witnessed in the city that never sleeps, Mumbai, focusing on the lives of entrepreneurs.
Produced by Rainshine Entertainment and directed by Harsh Dedhia, this story is driven by both the complexities and the desire for recognition in life. The teaser reveals Sanjay taking an unexpected twist and decides to change his life surprisingly. Set against the backdrop of the bustling city of Mumbai, the show chronicles the remarkable journey of an ambitious and street-smart boy who tries to break the shackles of the traditions imposed by his elder brother. Hustlers- Jugaad Ka Khel will feature Vishal Vashishtha, Anjali Barot, Maharshi Dave, Anurag Arora, and Samir Kochhar in pivotal roles.
Talking about the series, Aruna Daryanani, Director and Business Head at Amazon miniTV, shared, “Hustlers – Jugaad ka Khel is an ode to youngsters who are willing to challenge the norms and write their success story. Through the show, we aim to drive relatability with today’s aspirational audience and strike a chord with their thought processes. The entrepreneurial narrative, relatable characters are reminiscent of the current generation and that’s what the show aims to bring forth.”
Hustlers- Jugad Ka Khel will premiere exclusively on Amazon miniTV for absolutely free, accessible with the click-of-a-button on Amazon’s shopping app and Fire TV
18, Jan 2024
Fino Bank to increase physical as well as digital footprint in West Bengal
Kolkata, 18 January 2024: Fino Payments Bank (“Fino Bank”, “Bank”) plans to set up branchless points at every 300 meters in an effort to bring banking services closer to industrial areas and IT hubs across West Bengal. Banking points at such short distances would be beneficial to people working and living near an estimated 10 million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) spread across the state.
Fino Bank’s branchless points comprise of telecom shops, general provision stores, and other small businesses in the neighborhood that are easy for customers to access. They provide banking services using micro ATM (MATM) and Aadhaar-enabled payment system (AePS) devices. Currently, Fino Bank has around 35000 such tech-enabled shops known as merchant points across all 23 districts of West Bengal.
West Bengal, home to a large number of industries across automobile, leather, industrial machinery, textile, etc plans to build 4 new industrial parks covering North and South Bengal. With more MSME units coming up, new jobs created will lead to a demand for access to financial services in the industrial zones.
“We are geared up to meet the growing demand for access to quality banking services in West Bengal as well as across the North East”, said Mr. Shailesh Pandey, Chief Sales Officer, Fino Payments Bank. “Our innovative asset-light branchless banking infrastructure is the need of the hour, where more than 68% of the state’s 10 crore population lives in rural areas. Our pan India network of over 15 lakh points has been transforming the banking behavior of millions of people by providing assisted digital services in a convenient, safe and secure manner. We intend to replicate the same in the state by deploying our Distribution-Data-Digital strategy and expand our network by 50% in the next 12-18 months.”
Darpan Anand, Senior Divisional Head (North & East), Fino Payments Bank said, “Our Micro ATM and AePS enabled points have significant presence across West Bengal’s industrial and rural belts. Going forward, we will penetrate deeper inside existing geographies and in the upcoming MSME corridors and add more banking points within 300 metres of each other to improve banking access. In addition to basic banking services, the demand for efficient cash management services is huge in the state. We are well placed to cater to that need as well.”
With a growing smartphone user base in West Bengal and North East, Fino Bank believes in handholding its customers in their digital adoption journey. The Bank’s merchant also helps customers download FinoPay mobile app on their smartphones and transact leading to increase in digital transactions.
At Fino Bank’s point, one can open a new bank account, get instant debit card, do deposits, withdrawals, money transfers, pay utility bills, and even access third-party offerings such as insurance and referral loans. Most importantly, customers can visit the merchant at their convenience as the point is open for long hours, even on holidays. Merchants on the other hand, earn customer goodwill and opportunity to enhance their income.
18, Jan 2024
Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils roles out a campaign to promote ‘Run for a Girl Child’
Hyderabad: January 18th, 2024: Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils in association with Seva Bharathi, Telangana organised a special campaign to create awareness about the upcoming ‘Run for a Girl Child’ on 11th February 2024 at Gachibowli Stadium by rolling out ‘Eat Healthy, Live Healthy’ canters to promote registrations for the event. Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils is actively involved in the annual initiative ‘Run for the Girl Child’, curated to promote education and well-being of young girls from the underprivileged sections of the society. The ‘Eat Healthy Live Healthy’ canters to inform people about the ‘Run for a Girl Child’ and spread awareness about the benefits of using Rice Bran Oil, were flagged off by Mr. Chetan Pimpalkhute, GM Marketing, Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils along with his team and representatives from Seva Bharathi.
The ‘Eat Healthy, Live Healthy’ canter will go to different parts of the city to spread awareness about Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils present ‘The Run for a Girl Child’ and encourage more and more people to get associated with the cause. Each runner registering for the event will help empower a girl child from the underprivileged sections of society with quality education, good health, adequate skills, and above all a lot of self-confidence to help them live their lives to their fullest potential. To encourage registrations for ‘Run for a Girl Child’ during the activity, people who register their names at the Freedom Oil canter will get a 1-litre pouch of Freedom Rice Bran Oil worth of Rs. 120 free.
According to Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Senior Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Gemini Edibles, and Fats India Ltd “We are proud to associate with the 8th edition of ‘Run for Girl Child’ an initiative by ‘Seva Bharathi’ to support with quality education, good health, and skill development for girls from the underprivileged segments of the community. We encourage people to eat healthy by cooking food in Freedom Rice Bran Oil, which is less oily and greasy with 10000+ ppm oryzanol per 100ml to stay heart-healthy and lead an active lifestyle. Supporting this run is an extension of our drive to encourage people to lead a healthy life. Running for a cause is the biggest motivation. Through this initiative, we wish to encourage more and more people to register and contribute towards cause.”
18, Jan 2024
BRICS-CCI Annual Recognition Awards 2024
The stage is set for a momentous occasion as the BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry, India Chapter, proudly presents the BRICS-CCI Annual Recognition Awards 2024, fondly known as B.A.R.A. Scheduled for Friday, January
19th, this distinguished event is poised to be a celebration of excellence, innovation, and collaboration within the BRICS nations. Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of multilateralism and the concept of “vasudhaiva kutumbakam” (the world is one), B.A.R.A embodies an ongoing commitment to unleash the power of the expanding BRICS bloc.
The awards, under the overarching theme “Invest in our Planet,” will honor remarkable achievements, recognizing special contributions in Academia, Business, Community, Media, and policy-making from various BRICS nations. This prestigious occasion will feature esteemed Chief Guests, including the former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, who has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest of the inaugural and award ceremony. Maharaja Dr. Karan Singh and Shri Manoj Sinha, along with Shri PP Choudhary as the Keynote Speaker, will share their insights with the distinguished audience.
In a tribute to the rich cultural diversity of the BRICS nations, B.A.R.A. will commence with a captivating opening ceremony, graced by distinguished dignitaries, renowned personalities, and celebrities from each BRICS country. The event will honor exceptional individuals and organizations, including Padma Bhushan Late Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak (BRICS-CCI Lifetime Achievement For Social Change), Padma Bhushan Smt. Rajashree Birla (BRICS-CCI Living Legend Award & Icon for Community Excellence), Padma Bhushan Ms. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (BRICS-CCI Business Excellence Award Entrepreneur of the Year 2023-24), and Padma Shri Kailash Kher (BRICS-CCI Melody Maestro of India Award).
B.A.R.A., more than a one-day award ceremony, represents an ongoing process of celebrating the common factor of unleashing the power of the BRICS bloc. The first edition promises many firsts, unveiling thrilling moments and honoring lifetime achievements. Additionally, there will be a focus on promoting sustainability through the encouragement of Khadi by K.V.I.C. and millets as a symbol of lifestyle changes.
The event will feature speakers from different walks of life sharing their insights on sustainability. Ambassadors from various BRICS nations and friendly nations will grace the occasion, emphasizing the global significance of B.A.R.A. In closing, Dr. BBL Madhukar, Founder of BRICS-CCI, and Dr. Sushi Singh, co-founder of BRICS-CCI and concept designer of B.A.R.A., commend the dedicated team for their unwavering commitment and express enthusiasm for a future filled with limitless possibilities. Congratulations in advance to all the awardees, and here’s to a journey of collaboration, innovation, and responsible business practices across our BRICS nations.
18, Jan 2024
Rania Sahajatri Sangha wins Usha Nabarun Football Tournament 2024
Kolkata, January 18, 2024: Usha International, India’s leading consumer durables company in India, organized the “Usha Nabarun Football Tournament 2024” in collaboration with Nabarun Football Club, in which 16 teams competed for the Trophy. The final played yesterday between the National Youth Club and Rania Sahajatri Sangha at the Usha football field in Bansdroni, was fiercely competitive going into a tie-breaker with 3 goals each, and finally decided on a coin toss as the light was too poor to extend play. An audience comprising over 15000 football fans did full justice to the spirit of the game, cheering them on for their superb play. Sri Basudeb Mandi of Rania Sahajatri Sangha won the Player of the Tournament award, and the highest Scorer of the Tournament award went to Sri Bismark of VIP Dhaba Club.
Mrs. Shanti Mallick, the first women Footballer to win the Arjuna Award, was the chief guest and handed over the trophy to Rania Sahajatri Sangha – the winning team, in the presence of Mr Rajesh Tara, President HR, Usha International, and other guests of honours including Mr Gopal Roy, Councilor – Ward Number 111, and Mr Sandip Nandi, ex legendary Footballer.
Commenting on the tournament, Mr. Rajesh Tara, Senior Vice President – Human Resources, Usha International Limited, said, “Our association with the Nabarun Football Tournament underscores our commitment to encouraging young people in Kolkata, and everywhere else too, to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Sports is a great binding factor within communities and teaches participants many valuable lessons that help them in life as well. Seeing the skill and passion of the players in action and of course, the supportive audience was heartening and suggests we are on the right path. We firmly believe in supporting inclusive platforms that help young athletes develop their skills.”
Usha’s dedication to revitalizing local traditional sports is evident through its nationwide initiatives, aimed at promoting active and healthy lifestyles, as well as community engagement. The company’s sports outreach encompasses strategic partnerships and extensive support for various inclusive sporting platforms and events. These initiatives involve collaborations with entities like the Mumbai Indians franchise, Ultimate Flying Disc, Golf, and cricket for differently-abled individuals, and sports tailored for the visually impaired, such as athletics, kabaddi, judo, and powerlifting. Additionally, Usha actively backs indigenous Indian regional sports like Kalari, Chhinj, Siat Khnam, Thang-Ta, Saz-Loung, Satoliya (known as Pithu), Mallakhamb, Adimurai, and Gatka.
17, Jan 2024
Meghalaya Games 2024 inaugurated with grandeur in Tura
National, January 17, 2024: In a splendid ceremony held at the PA Sangma Stadium, the Meghalaya Games 2024 was inaugurated today in Tura, Meghalaya, marking the commencement of the State’s marquee multisport event. Her Excellency, Smt Droupadi Murmu, Hon’ble President of India, graced the occasion with her presence and officially inaugurated the Games, emphasizing the importance of sports in fostering unity and excellence among the youth.
The event witnessed the esteemed presence of dignitaries including the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya Shri Phagu Chauhan, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Sports Minister Shri Shakliar Warjri, Shri Agatha K Sangma, Hon’ble Member of Parliament of Tura, and other prominent leaders of the state.
In her inaugural address, the Hon’ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu remarked, “Johar, Namaskar! I am delighted to address the inauguration ceremony of the multi-sport event, Meghalaya Games. I am happy to note that this Opening Ceremony of the Meghalaya Games is being held in the PA Sangma Football Stadium, country’s largest pre-engineered composite football stadium. I pay my homage to Late Shri PA Sangma, former Chief Minister of Meghalaya, and the former Speaker of Lok Sabha. Shri Sangma was the first tribal speaker of the Lok Sabha and also the first speaker from Northeast. There is an urgent need to support the talent from the tribal areas and groom them to become professional sportspersons. I am happy to note that the society of Northeast encourages women to play and join sports as a profession. I am confident that the Meghalaya Games will encourage athletes for excellence, promote competitiveness and create a vibrant sporting ecosystem.”
The President of India, then lauded the performers at the opening ceremony, stating, “My sincere and heartfelt wishes for the performers of Garo, Khasi, & Jaintia tribes, who braved the cold, and some stood bare bodied in their traditional attire for three to four hours waiting. It shows the great sportsman spirit.”
Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Conrad K Sangma, thanked the Hon’ble President for her esteemed presence. Hon’ble Chief Minister said, “It is my honour to welcome in our midst, the Smt Droupadi Murmu, Hon’ble President of India, on her maiden visit to Meghalaya. These games are not just an event but investment in the most important asset of the state of Meghalaya- the youth of Meghalaya. The returns on this investment will be there for the generations to come. Creating opportunities for them to excel in sports and other fields of human achievement is the single most priority of our government. We are in the process of building new sports infrastructures at every level. We have ensured that the youth channelise their potential in the right direction. The presence of Hon’ble President of India will remain as a historic moment in the history of this beautiful state of Meghalaya. I once again thank all the members across different committees who are working tirelessly to make the Meghalaya Games successful.”
Meghalaya Games, reinstated in 2021-22 after a hiatus of 16 years, are a testament to the government’s commitment to promoting competitive excellence in the state’s sporting ecosystem. A prime focus of the Meghalaya Games is to not only revive but also highlight the traditional sports of the state. Thereby, participants across all the districts of Meghalaya will take part in the three traditional games, namely Mawpoin (A Khasi traditional game, where two teams try to raise a pyramid of stones and get all the opposing team members ‘out’), Rah Mukhrah (A Jaintia traditional Game where the competitors carry a raw heavy rounded rock to the finishing line achieving the title of ‘KI MAR’) and Wa’pong Sika (A Garo traditional game, where two teams compete to push a bamboo pole towards the opponent’s goal post.).
Hon’ble Sports Minister of Meghalaya Shri Shakliar Warjri stated, “It is with profound pride and unwavering enthusiasm that I stand before you today, not only as your Sports Minister, but as a fellow enthusiast of the sporting spirit. I am delighted to witness the commencement of the 5th Meghalaya Games, a vibrant tapestry woven from the tireless efforts of departments, volunteers, and young athletes, is truly an inspiration. The emblem of this event, the Hill Mynah, aptly reflects the spirit of Meghalaya. Its wings, emblazoned with the Olympic flame and the colours of our diverse tribes, symbolize not only aspiration but also unity.”
The 5th Edition of the Meghalaya Games, to be held till January 20, 2024, in Tura, promises to be the largest gathering of athletes yet, with over 3000 participants competing across 22 sporting disciplines. This includes two demonstration sports, Sport Climbing, and Softball. The organisation of the inaugural ceremony of the PA Sangma Stadium also symbolizes the pace of development in the state, with this engineering marvel being completed at such a less time.
The Meghalaya Games 2024, with its grand inauguration, set the stage for a week-long celebration of athleticism, culture, and camaraderie, leaving an indelible mark on Meghalaya’s sporting legacy.
16, Jan 2024
India STEM Foundation Announces WRO India Season 2024
January 16, 2024, India – The India STEM Foundation, in collaboration with the National Council of Science Museums, Government of India, is proud to announce the commencement of the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) India Season 2024.India STEM Foundation is the national organiser of World Robot Olympiad in India since year 2006 as well as hosted the WRO International Championship in 2016. World Robot Olympiad is the largest international robotics competition with participation of over 90+ countries. This event aligns with the goals of India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing holistic education and the development of 21st-century skills.
Under the inspiring theme ‘Earth Allies,’ WRO India Season 2024 invites students to innovate robotics solutions addressing global sustainability challenges. Registration for the Virtual Championship Event is now open until January 21, 2024. The newly launched Season 2024 website serves as a comprehensive resource for participation details, criteria, themes, games, and updates.
In a significant move to promote wide participation, schools registering two or more teams will enjoy a special incentive: waiver of the registration fee for the second team. The competition features various categories including Future Innovators, RoboMission, Future Engineers, and RoboSports, catering to different age groups and skill levels.
The WRO India Season 2024 will unfold in stages, starting with the Virtual Championship, followed by Regional and National Championships, culminating in the International Championship in Türkiye. This sequence offers participants a platform to showcase their innovative solutions, engage in critical thinking, and develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Recognizing the pivotal role of robotics competitions in STEM education, the India STEM Foundation will provide free and certified training sessions to students and teachers across India, and conduct bootcamps as well as Regional Championship in 12 cities. The aim is to foster innovation, teamwork, and a deeper engagement with STEM disciplines, preparing students for future challenges and career opportunities.
WRO India 2024 is not just a competition; it’s a global movement towards a sustainable future, powered by the brilliance and creativity of young minds. We invite schools and educational institutions across India to be part of this exciting journey.
Registration & Progression Details:
- Virtual Championship Registration – Only for Future Innovators Category
Event-1(Open until Jan 21, 2024)
Event-2 (Open until May 06, 2024) - Regional Championship Registration (RoboMission Teams will register directly for Regional Championship)
- National Championship Registration (RoboSports and Future Engineer Teams will directly register for National Championship)
- Special School Offer: Free registration for one team on enrolling two or more teams (Only for Future Innovators Category)
- Flexible payment methods available
India STEM Foundation
India STEM Foundation (ISF) is India’s leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing easy and cost-effective access to research-based, hands-on STEM education programs for schools, educators, and students across India. Their mission is to bridge the gap and make STEM education accessible to students from all social and economic backgrounds.
