12, Jan 2024
WATCH! Shah Rukh Khan’s heartfelt speech as he wins CNN-News18 Indian of the Year 2023 title
New Delhi | January 12, 2023: Shah Rukh Khan has been named the Indian of the Year 2023 at the CNN-News18 Indian of the Year awards. The actor was present at the prestigious awards ceremony among other distinguished guests and accepted the honour from the esteemed jury. This marked Shah Rukh Khan’s first-ever media appearance since 2019.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, he spoke about his career, box office and his consistent hunger for success, among many other things. The event witnessed Khan’s poignant words resonating with the audience, showcasing his enduring impact and influence not only in cinema but also in the hearts of millions across the nation.
The King Khan also delighted the audience by joining an a capella group on stage as they paid a tribute to him through renditions of his iconic songs.
While on stage, SRK shared a candid moment with Mani Ratnam, renowned filmmaker and recipient of CNN-News18 Indian of the year – Entertainment honour, as he requested the ‘Dil Se’ filmmaker to make a movie with him again.
“Mani sir, what now?” he said, adding, “It’s all come out in the open now. I’m requesting you – I’m begging you – I’m telling you every time! Do a film with me, I swear, I will dance on top of a plane on Chhaiya Chhaiya, if you’d tell me.”
To this, Mani Ratnam said he will do a film with SRK when the actor buys a plane. To this, Shah Rukh Khan said, “Mani, the way my films are going…this plane is not far away. I’m coming!”
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- By Rabindra
12, Jan 2024
FIDC Vision Document and Code of Conduct
Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC) is a Representative Body of NBFCs registered with the Reserve Bank of India. FIDC was formed 19 years ago and is the recognized face of the NBFC sector. FIDC has been engaged in regular interaction both with Reserve Bank of India and Govt. of India, which include prebudget meetings and important policy related meetings with RBI. Almost all the leading NBFCs and a large number of small and medium sized NBFCs are our members.
The Board of Directors of FIDC is glad to inform that FIDC has released its two most important documents:
(i) Vision Document &
(ii) Code of Conduct
at the hands of the Chairman Mr. Umesh Revankar on Thursday 11th January, 2024 (copies enclosed).
VISION DOCUMENT:
FIDC has drawn a Vision Document for NBFC Sector for the next 2 years and how it wants to achieve this. FIDC proposes to enhance the image, impact and income of the NBFC Sector with the support of all stakeholders. Towards this, FIDC will play a significant role in ensuring high degree of corporate governance, adherence to regulatory norms and fair market practices among its members.
CODE OF CONDUCT:
FIDC is issuing this Code of Conduct for all its members emphasizing the need to enhance responsible lending behaviour and practices and to ensure ethical practices in conduct of business. This Code of Conduct shall be a step in the right direction to enhance the confidence in the non-bank lending community, as this shall bring better discipline and harmony among the NBFCs. The Code of Conduct contains the guidance for various issues, inter alia, corporate governance, risk management, audit requirements, grievance redressal mechanism, delinquency management, education, outsourcing arrangements, engagement of recovery agents/collection agencies.
Talking on this milestone occasion, FIDC Chairman and Executive Vice-Chairman, Shriram Finance Ltd. Mr. Umesh Revankar said, “I am sure the Code of Conduct, as prepared by FIDC with the suggestions of all will be adhered to by all its members in letter and spirit and will go a long way in promoting self-governance and disciplined growth of the NBFC sector. I believe this will be the harbinger of a much greater role played by the NBFC sector in the growth and sustainable financial health of our country. Together, we have overcome challenges and achieved remarkable milestones and come out stronger after every crisis. Our shared dedication defines us, and I am confident that the NBFC Sector will rise up and play its role in Viksit Bharat 2047. Let’s embrace innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Let’s continue to lead with integrity, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, filled with prosperity, growth, and fulfilment. “
12, Jan 2024
Dedication of Spoorthi Sthal and 82nd Birth Anniversary of late Shri Jaipal Reddy, former Union Minister
Hyderabad, January 12, 2024..….Former Union Minister Jaipal Reddy’s 82nd Birth Anniversary will be celebrated on 16th January at Spoorthi Sthal. Jaipal Reddy Memorial Place, PVR Marg ( Necklace Road ), near Sanjeevaiah Park, Hyderabad from 9 AM onwards.
On the occasion of the dedication of Spoorthi Sthal, a memorial built to honour his indelible legacy and lifetime spent in service of the people will be held. A floral tribute will be held.
Several politicians are expected to pay Floral Tributes to Late Sri S. Jaipal Reddy, Former Union Minister, and an “Outstanding Parliamentarian”, disclosed a press note issued by S. Jaipal Reddy Memorial Foundation in the city today.
The Indian Society of Landscape Architects, on behalf of the S Jaipal Reddy Memorial Foundation, organized a Memorial Landscape Design Competition. It sought designs through the contest from Landscape Architect design teams and sought proposals that demonstrate excellence in the role of landscape features and their interrelation in the design of the Memorial named Spoorthi Sthal. The best design is adopted and developed accordingly keeping in mind about local environment and the same is being dedicated on the occasion of his birth anniversary. It is meant for general public utility apart from Memorial That memorial will be rededicated on January 16.
Jaipal Reddy is widely regarded for his Liberal, progressive and democratic values. He has been an ardent proponent of Democracy and a Representative Form of Government. His thoughts and ideas were penned in his book “Ten Ideologies: The Great Asymmetry between Agrarianism and Industrialism”. Democracy is included in it as a separate chapter.
Democracy is a system of government where citizens hold power. They can impact important decisions, either directly or through the people they elect. Democracy is based on freedom and equality between all people. Jaipal Reddy dedicated his life to upholding the democratic values in the Indian Political System.
The moral, social, and political philosophies of the Upanishads, Buddha, Plato, Gandhi, Vivekananda, Nehru, Ambedkar and Bertrand Russell inspired and guided him. His speeches and writings were wise, insightful, incisive, eloquent, and laced with wit.
He shepherded the passage of the bill for the formation of Telangana in 2014.
A politician par excellence, Sri Reddy was a Member of the Legislative Assembly for four consecutive times. He was a Member of Parliament seven times and Union Cabinet Minister for more than 10 years. He had a political career spanning over 50 years. He was a brilliant parliamentarian known for his oratorical skills and political acumen. His speeches were packed with knowledge, information, criticism and wit. He passed away on July 28th 2019 at the age of 77 years, and despite his physical disability carried on his journey with grit, and determination and stood as an inspiration to many.
Reddy was an elected representative for nearly 45 years and his contribution to the discussions in Parliament earned him, “The Outstanding Parliamentarian Award, 1998”.
Shri Reddy worked relentlessly all his life for the strengthening of Democratic Ideals and in service of the underprivileged and the marginalized. The world misses his reassuring presence and uncommon sagacity.
12, Jan 2024
Hyderabad’s remedial educator Farida Raj comes out with a book on Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the first ever book written in India by any medical or non-medical person
Hyderabad, January 12, 2024….. Hyderabad’s mainstream teacher turned remedial educator Farida Raj comes out with a book “Unbreakable Spirit” on the lesser-known disease, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the first ever book written in India by any medical or non-medical person. The book is slated for release later in the month.
The objective of the book the author says is to make it known to the public that with the right diagnosis, timely treatment, care and support many people can lead long, active and healthy lives.
It is a book in English for the benefit of a layman in an easy-to-read and follow format with the sole aim of creating awareness about the disease.
Farida Raj’s journey took an unexpected turn when she encountered individuals grappling with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This encounter fuelled her passion for shedding light on this lesser-known disease. The book on MS, “UNBREAKABLE SPIRIT: NAVIGATING LIFE WITH MS,” Navigating Life with MS, stands as a testament to understanding the lives of those affected by the condition.
The book invites readers on an insightful journey into the world of living with Multiple Sclerosis. It delves into the intricacies of MS, from its fundamental aspects to its profound effects on different life stages and relationships. With chapters exploring the Basics of MS, its impact on youth, relationships, parenthood, and the challenges of Confronting fears, this book provides a holistic perspective on the physical, emotional, and psychological dimensions of MS.
Through heartfelt narratives and personal experiences, the author sheds light on the struggles and triumphs faced by those living with MS, as well as the crucial role of caregivers in this journey. As readers turn each page, they will uncover valuable insights, practical advice, and a sense of community that empowers individuals to navigate the challenges of MS. The book not only fosters understanding but also offers guidance on building a supportive and empathetic network that extends beyond the confines of the condition.
Farida Raj has been recognized for her impactful work and honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Urdu Academy, Government of the State of Telangana.
Beyond her literary contributions, Farid”UNBREAKABLE SPIRIT stands as a beacon of hope for individuals with MS, their loved ones, and anyone seeking a deeper comprehension of the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity. It is a testament to the power of knowledge, compassion, and unity in overcoming the challenges posed by a complex condition, ultimately illuminating a path towards a richer, more connected life.
Farida is a woman of many facets. She has silently done a lot of impactful work for society.
Farida serves as an executive committee member of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India- Hyderabad chapter (MSSI). This non-profit organisation works for the welfare of people affected by Multiple Sclerosis and is affiliated with MSIF (Multiple Sclerosis International Federation).
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disorder that affects the Central Nervous System [CNS]. It is a potentially disabling disease that is creating havoc in the lives of many families.
Though its prevalence was higher in the West, now there is a rise in these cases in India. Eight to nine people per one lakh population is estimated to be suffering from MS. India has a disease burden of roughly 2.5 lakh. The number is estimated to be higher than stated, as not many people are diagnosed due to the lack of awareness. Manish Sisodia’s wife is a well-known case of multiple sclerosis currently. The Telugu states have around 200 MS patients registered with the MS Society of Hyderabad.
MS is an auto-immune disease. The awareness about this condition is inferior to the public. What many don’t know is that with the right diagnosis, timely treatment, care and support many people can lead long, active and healthy lives.
Farida Raj, a Mumbaikar relocated to Hyderabad (after marriage with Vijay Mohan Raj, a Ranji Cricketer and contemporary of Kapil Dev) and made Hyderabad her home for the past 41 years.
Farida has done a lot of work in the area of Specific Learning Difficulties (SLDs). In the past, she authored three insightful books, BREAKING THROUGH, UNDERSTANDING LEARNING DIFFICULTIES and STRUGGLING MINDS, on the subject, aiming to empower both teachers and parents in supporting their children’s learning journeys. She has contributed extensively to the B.Ed Special conducted by IGNOU and RCI.
Noticing a gap in information for women who primarily read Urdu, Farida turned her attention to the reproductive and mental health of women. She penned articles and authored three books in the Urdu language, HAMARI SEHAT KI ZAMIN, ZAVIYE ZINDAGI KE and IZTRAB- e- ZINDAGI, addressing crucial aspects of women’s well-being.
Farida Raj has been recognised for her impactful work and honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Urdu Academy, Government of the State of Telangana.
Beyond her literary contributions, Garida is a certified RE & CBT and NLP practitioner, offering psychological counselling to children, adolescents, and parents. She is an active life member of the Craft Council of Telangana, and an advocate for child protection as a member of the NGO “Break the Silence.”
11, Jan 2024
‘Deepfake’ is a big challenge for the entire world: Ram Nath Kovind
Former President of India spoke at the 55th convocation of IIMC
New Delhi, January 11: Delivering the 55th Convocation Address of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), former President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, said that ‘Deepfake’, Fake News and Misinformation poses a significant challenge for the entire world. Today, anyone can use digital means to intentionally spread misinformation. He said that journalists graduating from institutions such as IIMC have to ensure that we put up a fight against the spread of Fake News and Misinformation. IIMC Chairman Shri R. Jagannathan, Director General Dr. Anupama Bhatnagar and Additional Director General Dr. Nimish Rustagi were present on the occasion.
During the convocation held at Pragati Maidan’s Bharat Mandapam, postgraduate diploma certificates were awarded to students from the batches of 2021–22 and 2022–23 (IIMC Delhi and its Regional Centers at Dhenkanal, Aizawl, Amravati, Kottayam and Jammu). Also, 65 students from both batches were honoured with various awards.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Shri Kovind highlighted IIMC’s recognition as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ in the field of education and training in mass communication. He emphasised the significant contribution of IIMC students to Indian journalism and mentioned the institute’s commitment to preparing students for careers in journalism.
Shri Ram Nath Kovind advised the students, who are entering the field of journalism and media, to be prepared to tackle the misuse of rapidly advancing technology. He urged them to ensure that citizens receive accurate information amidst the challenges of fake news, misinformation, and deepfakes that the nation and the world are currently facing.
Shri Kovind urged the graduating students to stay away from the trend of sensationalizing news to garner greater TRPs. He cautioned against employing such shortcuts and urged everyone to preserve the values of journalism. He asserted that the power to build a developed India by 2047 lies in the hands of the youth, and they should use this power wisely.
Director General of IIMC, Dr. Anupama Bhatnagar, expressed IIMC’s commitment to providing every student with opportunities for comprehensive development necessary for their overall growth. The convocation ceremony witnessed the participation of over 700 students, professors, officials, and others.
11, Jan 2024
The Good Food Institute India Unveils Insights on India’s Smart Protein Sector
New Delhi, 11January 2024: The Good Food Institute India (GFI India), the central expert organization, thought leader, and convening body in the alternative protein sector, in collaboration with Kantar World Panel, unveiled a new study on consumer awareness, trial, and purchase behavior for plant-based meat and dairy today. Coinciding with the global phenomenon of Veganuary, which inspires millions to try plant-based diets every January, the report sheds light on the evolving landscape of consumer adoption of plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy. With 377 products spanning 41 formats and 73 brands, the sector has witnessed rapid growth over the past few years, presenting consumers with an array of choices in plant-based meat, dairy, and egg categories.
The study reveals that while familiarity with plant-based meat and dairy is growing, with about 30% of respondents aware of plant-based meat and 50% of plant-based dairy, the trial rates stand at 11% and 23%, respectively. However, the category exhibited strong potential for market growth, as evidenced by the high repeat purchase intentions, with 72% considering buying plant-based meat again and 82% willing to purchase plant-based dairy again. Notably, in line with global trends of environmentally conscious behavior, the report identifies a higher level of awareness and adoption interest among younger demographics, particularly in metropolitan areas and among non-vegetarians (flexitarians), compared to vegetarians and those in non-metro cities.
Interestingly, according to the report, consumption patterns reveal that plant-based options are currently consumed similarly to their animal-derived counterparts. However, the latter is consumed more regularly, with plant-based options reserved for special occasions. The study also states that taste remains a significant driver for conventional meat consumption, highlighting the need to further improve the taste of plant-based meat. Key barriers to wider adoption include taste, accessibility (affordability and availability), and perceptions of plant-based foods. This nuanced understanding of consumer behavior is crucial for stakeholders in the smart protein sector to strategize and cater to the evolving market effectively.
Rajyalakshmi G, Market and Consumer Insights Advisor at The Good Food Institute India, commented, “Our study with Kantar World Panel reveals key factors driving the growth of India’s smart protein sector. It highlights the importance of building category awareness and relevance for plant-based alternatives among consumers. To encourage trial and repeat purchases, it is crucial for manufacturers to focus on the trifecta of taste, affordability, and convenience. Like any new category, initiatives, including sampling, online campaigns, social media engagement, and strategic retail displays, can contribute significantly to greater awareness and broader adoption. Our goal is to empower manufacturers and industry players with essential consumer insights that can drive the advancement of the sector in India.”
The rising interest in global consumer-focused movements like Veganuary highlights the importance of alternative proteins to enhance participation by a wider cohort of consumers. A shift from conventional proteins to more plant-based meat, dairy, and egg alternatives will be crucial for growing economies like India in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and public health.
11, Jan 2024
Thrilling Expedition with Sony BBC Earth’s January Premieres
National, January 11, 2024:
Starting the new year with renewed vigour and anticipation, Sony BBC Earth brings in an interesting line-up of premieres for its viewers. Adding to the promise of making viewers feel alive by offering a fresh perspective on knowledge and adventure, the channel is premiering ‘World’s Most Dangerous Roads’, ‘Ancient Powers’, and ‘Spy in the Ocean’.
‘World’s Most Dangerous Roads’ takes viewers on a virtual expedition along with six British celebrities as they navigate the planet’s most treacherous highways, awe-inspiring landscapes, and captivating characters. The show guarantees an adrenaline rush and the thrill of a lifetime. With ‘Ancient Powers’ viewers can journey through time as they unravel the secrets concealed within ancient monuments and landmarks. It is a remarkable story of the social, technological, and physical challenges five powerful civilizations faced in their battle for survival and domination of the ancient world. Whereas ‘Spy in the Ocean’ takes people to an extraordinary underwater spy mission. With state-of-the-art hidden cameras, the show offers unprecedented perspectives on the ingenious creatures that call the ocean home. A new secret is unveiled of ocean life, into the heart of the underwater world.
Watch ‘Ancient Powers’ on Saturday and Sunday at 8 PM from the 13th, ‘World’s Most Dangerous Roads’ on Monday to Friday at 10 PM from the 15th, and ‘Spy in the Ocean‘ premiering on the 22nd at 12 PM and 9 PM from Monday to Thursday.
11, Jan 2024
IIT Roorkee Hosts International Workshop on Social Determinants of Lifestyle Related Chronic and Non-Communicable Diseases
· Unraveling the Complexities of Non-Communicable Diseases in Adult Women
· IIT Roorkee’s Endeavor in Tackling Lifestyle-Related Diseases
· Unveiling Health Realities: Women’s Chronic Challenges
11, 01, 2024: The Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) organized an enlightening workshop titled “Social Determinants of Lifestyle Related Chronic and Non-Communicable Diseases among Adult Women in India.” The event took place on the 10th of January 2024 at the Dept. of HSS Auditorium, IIT Roorkee.
The workshop commenced with an Inaugural Session featuring esteemed guests and experts in the field.
The Director of IIT Roorkee, Prof. K. K. Pant, expressed his enthusiasm for the workshop, stating, “Guided by a legacy of 176 years, IIT Roorkee stands as a beacon of excellence, continually striving to illuminate the path of knowledge and societal progress. In hosting events like the International Workshop on Social Determinants of Lifestyle-Related Diseases, we not only bridge academia with real-world challenges but also reaffirm our commitment to shaping a healthier and more enlightened society. Focused on addressing the escalating burden of chronic diseases, especially among vulnerable populations, this initiative aims to bridge research gaps and deliver evidence-based solutions. By concentrating on women of reproductive age in northern states, the project seeks to disseminate vital health knowledge and make a lasting impact on individuals, communities, and states. This workshop underscores IIT Roorkee’s commitment to societal well-being and the pursuit of knowledge that transcends boundaries.”
The Chief Guest, Dr. Sanjeeb Kumar Patjoshi, IPS, Government of Kerala, delivered an insightful address, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations to address the complex issue of lifestyle-related diseases. He remarked, “IIT Roorkee’s initiative to delve into the social determinants of health is commendable. Such collaborations between academia and industry are pivotal for developing effective strategies to tackle health challenges in our society. He also emphasised pivotal role of rural Panchayats and almost 14 lakh women elected representatives in these local self governments in awareness campaign, aggregating data, secondly focusing on nursing staff mostly women in India for their hands on experience insights in this research.”
The Inaugural Session was marked by the presence of key figures, including Prof. Anindya J. Mishra, the Convener, extending a warm welcome to guests, and Prof. S. P Singh, Head of Humanities & Social Sciences, offering insights into the department’s significance. Prof. Sabu S. Padmadas, the International Principal Investigator from the University of Southampton, provided a comprehensive overview of the project, while Co-Principal Investigator Prof. Tapas Mishra outlined impactful pathways. Notably, the session also highlighted the crucial roles of Co-Convenors Prof. Pooja Garg and Prof. Falguni Pattanaik, emphasizing their pivotal contributions to the organization of the workshop. This collaborative effort of distinguished individuals exemplifies the workshop’s commitment to excellence and the seamless coordination essential for its success.
The workshop, graced by esteemed resource persons like Dr. Yutaro Setoya of WHO, Prof. Pradyot Ranjan Jena from NIT Surathkal, and Dr. Swati Sharma from VIT Chennai Campus, showcases a convergence of global perspectives on NCDs and co-morbidities. Their valuable insights contribute to a nuanced understanding of lifestyle-related chronic diseases among adult women in India. This event not only underscores IIT Roorkee’s commitment to academic excellence but also emphasizes its dedication to societal contributions. The inclusion of international perspectives, represented by Prof. Sabu S. Padmadas and Prof. Tapas Mishra from the University of Southampton, highlights the institution’s global outreach and collaborative ethos. The workshop’s sessions, led by eminent speakers like Prof. Anand Krishnan and Mrs. Kusum Ghildiyal, delve into critical aspects of gender and non-communicable diseases, utilizing population-level datasets and addressing intricate social determinants, reflecting the workshop’s diverse expertise.
The workshop concluded with valuable insights during the Deliberations and Way Forward session, led by Dr. Tulika Bhattacharyya from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) India Office.
Prof. Anindya J. Mishra, the Convener of the workshop, expressed his gratitude, stating, “This workshop has provided a platform for rich discussions and collaborative efforts to address the social determinants of lifestyle-related diseases among women. I am thankful to all the participants for their valuable contributions.”
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Prof. Anindya J. Mishra, and participants left with a sense of collective commitment towards addressing the challenges highlighted during the workshop.
The International Workshop not only demonstrated IIT Roorkee’s commitment to addressing societal challenges but also highlighted its excellence in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The event served as a beacon of the institution’s legacy and its ongoing contribution to the betterment of society for over 176 years. IIT Roorkee continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future, not just through technological advancements but also by addressing critical social issues that impact lives.
11, Jan 2024
ISRO’s Gaganyaan Mission takes center stage in an exclusive WION interview with Chief Dr. S. Somanath
In a WION exclusive interview with Dr. S. Somanath, Chief of ISRO, key insights into India’s space endeavors were unveiled. The focus is on the highly anticipated Gaganyaan mission scheduled for 2025, with 2024 marked as a pivotal year for crucial milestones.
Gaganyaan Mission: Scheduled for 2025, 2024 is a critical year for milestones.
Unmanned Missions in 2024: Two scheduled missions (GX and G1) are crucial preparations for the Gaganyaan mission.
Crew Escape System Demonstration: Important for astronaut safety, with one done and three more planned for 2024.
Parachute System Validation: Helicopter drop tests in 2024 to validate key mission components.
Design and Engineering Challenges: Extensive work on crew systems, viewports, and more for astronaut comfort and safety.
Astronaut Training: Focus on real experience, including potential ISS training, to refine mission design.
Mounting an Indian Astronaut to the ISS: Confirmed goal for 2024 with discussions ongoing for US leg training.
Mission Challenges and Outlook: Acknowledged tough journey in 2024, but ISRO remains committed to concurrent missions.
Dr. Somanath’s insights into the challenges and engineering efforts involved, along with the emphasis on real astronaut experience and training, showcase the dedication and commitment of ISRO.
11, Jan 2024
Cornejo doubles up on stage 4 of the Dakar Rally to make a Monster Energy Honda Team one-two finish with Brabec
Saudi Arabia, January 11th, 2024: José Ignacio Cornejo took a second stage victory at this year’s event with a dominant performance into Al-Hofuf.
Having narrowly missed out on a maiden podium at the Dakar Rally in 2020, the 29 year old has his eyes on the top prize. The Chilean notched up his eighth Dakar stage victory, flying across stage four to propel him to the top of the overall standings now leading Ross Branch by over a minute.
After being separated from the team last night after just a two-hour service followed by camping under the stars, the conditions didn’t deter the riders from finding their rhythm and putting in another assault on the general standings.
Making sure to rest up with an early night in his tent, a re-invigorated Ricky Brabec made it a one-two on the podium for the Monster Energy Honda Team as he accumulated a minute in bonuses on the shorter 299 km special stage. It was a great result for the American rider as he opened the way with Kevin Benavides on what promised to be a day with very tricky navigation.
Fifth placed Adrien Van Beveren has now got himself dialled in with his Honda CRF450 RALLY and with dunes coming up tomorrow in the hostile Empty Quarter, the three-time Le Touquet beach race king will be on the hunt for his first stage victory this year on his favourite terrain, aiming to rise up the overall standings from his current fifth position.
After his initial shaky start to the 2024 Dakar, Skyler Howes has made huge improvements to be in the top ten since stage two. The American has been enjoying the rocky stages so far although he did struggle to find a hidden waypoint today. His ninth position today has moved him up to twelfth overall.
Pablo Quintanilla had a stage to forget as 100 km in to the day’s action a parked up truck created some confusion on the route. What he thought was a navigational error was actually the correct way and this lost him over eighteen minutes to Cornejo. This has now dropped him down to seventh overall, so the six time Dakar stage winner will be one to keep an eye on in the coming days as he reclaims that deficit.
As the 48 Hour Chrono gets ever closer riders will have to muster up all their energy for stage five tomorrow. Although it’s only 118 km against the clock in the dunes, a very early start will see them covering a 527 km road section as they head towards the Red Sea and the city of Shubaytah.
Ruben Faria (General Manager)
“We’ve got to the bivouac in Al-Hofuf at the end of stage four with Nacho and Ricky doing a really good job today coming first and second and Adrien is also on the pace and not too far off the front runners. Pablo lost a little bit of time today which is disappointing, but there are a lot of stages still to come so everything can change. Skyler did a good job at the beginning of the stage but he had some issues and also lost a bit of time. The team is strong and we will keep on fighting to achieve our main goal.”
Pablo Quintanilla 7 (Stage: 13th; Overall: 7th)
“Today was a super tough stage for me. We left a river bed and I saw some workers with a big truck parking up which didn’t seem right. I thought that I wasn’t going in the right direction and so I went back to search for the route. Toby (Price) arrived and he was in the same predicament. Finally we went back in the direction of the truck and the correct way was behind it. I got confused because of the workers and the truck so I didn’t think it was possible to go that way.
It is what it is, we are still in the race so now we need to be focused again, get rest and go on the attack tomorrow.”
Ricky Brabec 9 (Stage: 2nd; Overall: 3rd)
“Stage four was good, it was the shortest one yet so I was happy to have a shorter day. We’re at the bivouac an hour earlier than we have been, so that’s also nice and it gives the mechanics some more time to work on the bikes. I was second on the road which definitely wasn’t easy as navigation is really tricky this year. It can catch you off guard quickly so if you’re not on your toes from sunrise to sunset then it really can throw you.
Tomorrow’s stage five is a sand dune day, it’s a short one but it’ll be long day in the saddle with the liaison. It’s going to be an interesting next three days, everyone in the team is doing a great job and I’m looking forward to getting to the end of this rally.”
Skyler Howes 10 (Stage: 9th; Overall: 12th)
“I’m becoming more and more confident with the bike, we’ve made a few little changes to the suspension and to some other positive adjustments. I had a small mechanical issue which slowed me down and I also had to search for a hidden waypoint which lost me some time.
The pace and riding was good and it was overall another positive day. I do prefer the previous stages as there’s more stones, rocky canyons and technical navigation, once you get into the dunes it’s almost like a motocross race, you push really hard and you just follow the compass.”
José Ignacio “Nacho” Cornejo 11 (Stage: 1st; Overall: 1st)
“It was a good stage, it was a mix of terrains and they did say it would be a little bit easier. It felt faster and not as physical as the previous days, but there were some sections of tricky navigation so I had to stay focused. I did some little mistakes at the beginning but then I pushed harder with a good solid pace and finished in a positive way. Tomorrow we start with the dunes so let’s see how it goes.”
Adrien Van Beveren 42 (Stage: 5th; Overall: 5th)
“We’ve had two good days, I feel really good on the bike and the rhythm is good now. I feel happy as I’m enjoying my riding, although today it was bit more stony so I enjoyed it a little bit less than yesterday. We had some dunes at the end which was fun and there are more to come tomorrow. The goal was to get back on the overall classification and I’m now fifth and not far off the front, so everything is possible to get back that time.”
2024 World Rally Raid Championship
RallyGP Results – Stage 4
| Pos. | Rider | Num | Nation | Team | Constructor | Time/Gap |
| 1 | CORNEJO JOSÉ IGNACIO “NACHO” | 11 | CHI | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | 02H 51′ 11″ |
| 2 | BRABEC RICKY | 9 | USA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +02.59 |
| 3 | BENAVIDES KEVIN | 1 | ARG | Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team | KTM | +03.18 |
| 4 | EVAN BRANCH ROSS | 16 | BWA | Hero Motorsports Team Rally | Hero | +04.26 |
| 5 | VAN BEVEREN ADRIEN | 42 | FRA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +05.25 |
| 6 | BENAVIDES LUCIANO | 77 | ARG | Husqvarna Factory Racing | Husqvarna | +07.22 |
| 7 | BARREDA JOAN | SPA | Hero Motorsports Team Rally | Hero | +08.15 | |
| 8 | GONÇALVES RUI | 19 | POR | Sherco TVS Rally Factory | Sherco | +09.51 |
| 9 | HOWES SKYLER | 10 | USA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +10.05 |
| 10 | MICHEK MARTIN | 10 | CZE | Orion Moto Racing Group | KTM | +14.1 |
| 13 | QUINTANILLA PABLO | 7 | CHI | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +18.39 |
RallyGP Provisional Standings after Stage 4
| Pos. | Rider | Num | Nation | Team | Constructor | Time/Gap |
| 1 | CORNEJO JOSÉ IGNACIO “NACHO” | 11 | CHI | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | 17H 27′ 13″ |
| 2 | EVAN BRANCH ROSS | 16 | BWA | Hero Motorsports Team Rally | Hero | +01.15 |
| 3 | BRABEC RICKY | 9 | USA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +04.56 |
| 4 | BENAVIDES KEVIN | 1 | ARG | Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team | KTM | +20.39 |
| 5 | VAN BEVEREN ADRIEN | 42 | FRA | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +22.3 |
| 6 | BENAVIDES LUCIANO | 77 | ARG | Husqvarna Factory Racing | Husqvarna | +31.11 |
| 7 | QUINTANILLA PABLO | 7 | CHI | Monster Energy Honda Team | Honda | +31.44 |
| 8 | PRICE TOBY | 18 | AUS | Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team | KTM | +34.54 |
| 9 | MICHEK MARTIN | 10 | CZE | Orion Moto Racing Group | KTM | +38.11 |
| 10 | SANDERS DANIEL | 4 | AUS | Gas Gas Factory Team | Gas Gas | +39.43 |
