8, Dec 2023
Sri Rajarajeswari Bharatha Natya Kala Mandir bejewelled Sangeet Samaroh in Hyderabad
Hyderabad, 8 December 2023: Sri Rajarajeswari Bharatha Natya Kala Mandir, a home to many renowned dancers, marked its presence at the prestigious 51st Pandit Motiram Pandit Maniram Sangeet Samaroh Festival, held on 30th November 2023 at CCRT, Madhapur Kondapur Road, HITEC City, Hyderabad with a magical performance by its exceptionally talented student, Krishna Pranita.
Presented by Durga Jasraj and the Pandit Jasraj Cultural Foundation, this Festival in its 51st year is one of the most prestigious festivals presenting Indian Classical Music and Dance programs to the audience.
The event featured noteworthy vocalists such as Ankita Joshi, Ruchira Kedar, Rutuja Lad, and Dhanashree Ghaisas, as well as accomplished dancers such as Yamini Reddy (Kuchipudi), Arushi Mudgal (Odissi), Shinjini Kulkarni (Kathak), and Krishna Pranita (Bharatha Natyam).
The intricate expressions in Krishna Pranita’s Natya conveyed the profound emotions of the composition depicting Lord Krishna and Radha. The performance unfolded like a poetic dance, where each step resonated with the harmonious melody of raag and taal of Hindustani music, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of devotion and anticipation. Guru Harikrishna Kalyanasundaram’s choreography in interpreting this Khayal shows his prowess in traditional margams, different themes, and as a phenomenal music composer through his many compositions and innumerable choreographic work. Dhanashree and Rutuja added melodic beauty with their vocals along with the subtle yet very precise rhythmic support by Sri Vedakrishnaram on mridangam.
Krishna Pranita, a senior disciple of Guru Harikrishna Kalyanasundaram at Sri Rajarajeswari Bharatha Natya Kala Mandir, is known for her skillful performances, and her artistic journey is deeply rooted in the rich traditions of her Guru Parampara from Thanjavur, a lineage that spans 300 years. Krishna Pranita ardently upholds the tenets of this ancient tradition, embodying the cultural heritage and spiritual dimensions intrinsic to Bharatha Natyam.
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- By Rabindra
8, Dec 2023
PNB urges its customers to update KYC details by 18.12.2023
New Delhi, 08 December 2023: In adherence to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, the Punjab National Bank, nation’s leading public sector bank, has asked its customers to update their Know Your Customer (KYC) information before 18.12.2023 to ensure smooth functioning of their accounts. This is applicable only for those customers whose accounts were due for KYC updation as of 30.09.2023.
As part of the KYC compliance exercise, PNB customers are requested to provide their updated information like identity proof, address proof, recent photo, PAN, income proof, mobile number (if not available), or any other KYC information to their base branch. It can be done through PNB One, Internet Banking Services (IBS), registered email/post, or in-person visits to any branch by 18.12.2023. Failure to update KYC details within the stipulated time may result in restrictions on account operations.
For any assistance, customers can visit their nearest PNB branch or check the official website https://www.pnbindia.in/.
8, Dec 2023
Happiest Minds Recognized as Procurement Organization of the Year at the CPO Awards 2023
Bengaluru, Dec 8, 2023: Happiest Minds Technologies Limited (NSE: HAPPSTMNDS), a ‘Born Digital. Born Agile’, Mindful IT Company, today announced that it has been recognized as ‘Procurement Organization of the Year’ at the 8th Annual ISM-INDIA Conference and CPO Awards 2023.
ISM India recognizes and celebrates the outstanding collaborative efforts of individuals and teams in procurement and supply chain excellence. From around 18 submissions from IT companies, Happiest Minds has secured the title ‘Procurement Organization of the Year’. This award showcases the overall excellence of the organization in undertaking the most successful project. In addition to this, it has also been lauded for ‘Excellence in Supply Chain Initiatives’.
Venkatraman Narayanan, MD & CFO, Happiest Minds said, “This prestigious award mirrors the unwavering dedication and outstanding efforts of our talented team. It affirms our commitment to excellence in the field. I extend my gratitude to our team members and stakeholders who have played a pivotal role in making this achievement possible. Being awarded the ‘Procurement Organization of the Year’ has motivated us to set higher benchmarks and attain new milestones.”
Sriranga Krish, Vice President, of Happiest Minds said, “Our matured procurement processes and strong internal approval processes have helped us to achieve this. While we are working on further strengthening our internal processes, this award has really motivated us to look at higher levels. My appreciation to the entire team for exhibiting their good negotiation skills and combined efforts that have led us to attain this accolade.”
Happiest Minds has won multiple accolades including The Golden Peacock Award for Excellence in Corporate Governance (2022) and Business Excellence (2021).
8, Dec 2023
Vishwas Tulshiram Dake inspires host Amitabh Bachchan with his never-say-die spirit on ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 15’
Sony Entertainment Television’s popular gameshow, ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 15’, saw contestant Vishwas Tulshiram Dake from Mahalas, Beed District, Maharashtra, own the hot seat opposite host Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. Along with impressive gameplay, his inspirational story caught the attention of not only the host but everyone present on set.
Belonging to a humble background, Vishwas spends his time on his farmland to earn a livelihood. After the sudden demise of his father, he was responsible for earning the daily wages for his family’s survival, due to which he couldn’t complete his education. But his aspiration to win in Kaun Banega Crorepati kept him motivated and never settle for less. His is a story of a farmer, with a never-say-die spirit, who went from earning approximately INR 20,000 a month, to winning a whopping INR 12,50,000 on the show! In a conversation with the host, he spoke about his dear wife who kept a fast every Monday until he got selected for Fastest Finger First, and how education plays a vital role in one’s life.
Sharing his happiness on winning such a huge amount, Vishwas Tulshiram Dake said, “I am grateful to God and the platform of Kaun Banega Crorepati to have given me a new lease in this life. When I was in the 12th grade, I couldn’t pay the fees to complete my education but now, I am delighted to take home the winnings from the show so that my childrens’ future will be saved. I am an ardent follower of the show, which keeps motivating every viewer never to give up. Instead, it spurs you to keep trying to achieve your dreams until they are fulfilled.”
Be sure to tune in to ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 15 – Juniors Week’ at 9:00 PM only on Sony Entertainment Television
8, Dec 2023
International Solar Alliance Operationalises Groundbreaking Global Solar Facility with MIGA
India, 08 December 2023: The International Solar Alliance (ISA) proudly announces a significant milestone with the initiation of the first pilot project under its Global Solar Facility (GSF). In collaboration with Nuru, a leading solar power company in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the project aims to develop and construct 15 megawatts (MW) of solar metro grid capacity across three provinces in the Eastern Congo.
Dr Ajay Mathur, Director General of the International Solar Alliance, emphasized the transformative potential of Nuru’s approach: “Less than 20% of the DRC’s population has access to energy, and with a rising energy demand projected for the future, Nuru’s innovative approach to renewable energy access unlocks the immense market potential across the country. The company will be installing a series of mini-grids that will power around 5 million people. Towards this, the GSF is providing insurance capital to the company, which will be bought from MIGA, contributing significantly to the viability of the project.”
The ISA, through its GSF, is supporting Nuru by partnering with the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) of the World Bank Group. This collaboration, announced at the G20-Clean Energy Ministerial meeting in Goa in July 2023, is dedicated to promoting new investment in solar power generation to increase access and boost energy security, especially in countries with the greatest needs. “ISA-MIGA partnership will be invaluable to mitigating risk, and unlocking the potential of investments in Africa”, added Dr. Mathur.
Jonathan Shaw, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Nuru expressed his enthusiasm: “Nuru is delighted to be implementing the first project to receive International Solar Alliance support. The ISA is providing critical and catalytic support to ensure that we can manage complex risks in the places we work while also maintaining affordable pricing for our clients.”
Nuru’s plan includes the deployment of an additional 39 MWs in subsequent phases, with the anticipation of providing power to up to 5 million people by 2025. In a country where only 19% of the population has access to electricity, Nuru’s innovative approach, supported by ISA’s GSF, holds immense promise for fostering climate resilience and sustainable development.
Nuru’s utility-scale solar metrogrids, integrated with cutting-edge technology and services, are designed to provide 24/7 reliable and renewable energy to urban communities in the DRC. Despite the challenging electrification rate, Nuru’s metro grids are poised to have a substantial impact on economic activity and market demand.
Global Solar Facility (GSF): Catalyzing Solar Investments Across Africa
ISA had earlier announced a $35 million funding for GSF to stimulate investments into solar power projects. The GSF aims to catalyze solar investments in underserved segments and geographies across Africa, unlocking commercial capital in the process.
Shri R K Singh, Minister of Power and New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, during the International Solar Alliance Assembly had highlighted the GSF’s objective to raise $100 million USD, aiming to provide security to investments and accelerate the transition to solar energy in Africa.
Dr Mathur emphasized citing the GSF as a crucial mechanism for the urgent need for universal energy access and a clean energy transition, “The world requires an investment of $12.5 trillion in renewable energy and $23 billion in off-grid solar by 2030. The GSF will further our vision of addressing the urgent need for universal energy access and a clean energy transition.”
After Africa, the GSF plans to expand its reach to regions such as Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, tailoring Regional Facilities to meet specific requirements. The GSF envisions investments in innovative technologies, support for startups, and exploration of emerging solar energy sectors in its mission to enhance solar energy efficiency globally.
8, Dec 2023
Austrade’s Tech Trade Mission 2023 facilitates Australian Tech companies’ engagement in India’s thriving innovation ecosystem
Bengaluru, 08 December 2023: The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) recently concluded its Tech Trade Mission to India 2023 as a part of the Australia India Innovation Network (AIIN) program. 9 Australian Tech companies from Digital health/ Medtech, Quantum and AI, and SAAS visited Chennai and Bengaluru from 27 November 2023 to 01 December 2023 to engage with India’s diverse tech environment.
During the mission, Australian tech companies gained access to India’s innovation ecosystem, fostering connections with the Indian tech industry, and equipping them with market insights and business connections to leverage emerging opportunities.
Austrade played a significant role in promoting Australian tech capabilities during the mission, facilitating connections within India’s tech ecosystem.
The tech mission also participated at the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2023 which brought together industry leaders, startups, tech experts, and policymakers in Bengaluru, known as a hub for technology and innovation in India.
Austrade, in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Home Affairs, and the Western Australian Government, delivered Australia’s presence as an “Innovation Partner” at the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2023. The Australian pavilion received the Most Innovative Display award at BTS 2023.
MoU Signings at the Bengaluru Tech Summit
· Australian Tech firm Next XR’s Indian entity Mayjun Infotech signed an MoU with India’s Catnip Infotech to collaborate in the areas of technical resources availability, content development, and human resources.
· Australian Tech firm Givvable signed an MoU with India’s GIST Impact to collaborate and promote a digital assessment tool for SMEs that has been co-developed with the International Chamber of Commerce.
Mr Vik Singh, Trade and Investment Commissioner – South Asia, Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) stated, “We’re thrilled to bring Australian tech companies into India’s vibrant innovation landscape through the Australia India Innovation Network. This mission, covering Chennai and Bengaluru, provided Australian tech innovators with the opportunity to connect with India’s dynamic market, collaborate with potential partners, and explore new possibilities. As the ‘Innovation Partner’ at the Bengaluru Tech Summit, we’re honoured to facilitate technology collaboration across borders, promoting equity, inclusivity, and sustainability. Australia’s ongoing partnership with India, showcased through events like these, underscores Australia’s commitment to nurturing growth, encouraging innovation, and building global tech connection”.
Australia is a great place to develop digital technologies. Australia’s A$167 billion tech sector is smart, dynamic and is growing fast. It has expanded by 80% in just 5 years and will contribute a predicted A$250 billion to the Australian economy by 2030. Australia has expertise in SaaS, fintech, cyber security, quantum, digital games, and across the technology spectrum.
8, Dec 2023
Energy Storage Conclave at IIT Roorkee in line with national needs of electric vehicles, renewable integration and grid storage with over 600 eminent experts from around the world
08, Dec 2023: Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) presents the 2nd international meeting on Energy Storage Devices 2023 and Industry-Academia Conclave in association with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) from December 7-10th, 2023 organized by the Department of Physics and Centre for Sustainable Energy. With over 600 participants from both India and abroad, this meeting is poised to be a ground-breaking event in the field of energy storage devices and their applications for renewable energy integration, e-mobility, and modern electronics.
The IMESD 2023 conference organized by IIT Roorkee aims to unite global experts in the field of energy storage devices, fostering interdisciplinary discussions and collaborations. The event’s central theme revolves around bringing diverse energy storage technologies onto a common platform to explore recent trends and future research directions. With a focus on the current status, challenges, and future prospects of energy storage devices in India, the four-day conference includes parallel symposia covering topics such as lithium-ion batteries, beyond Li-ion batteries, supercapacitors, hydrogen economy, and system design and integration. Distinguished speakers from countries like the USA, UK, Singapore, Sweden, France, and UAE, along with high-ranking officials from Indian institutes and research organizations, will share their latest advancements, contributing to a dynamic knowledge-sharing platform. A special attraction of the event shall be the Defence-Industry-Academia Conclave scheduled on 8th Dec 2023. The event promises a comprehensive experience, featuring an exhibition on batteries and fuel cells by 10 different DRDO labs being used in various strategic applications. In addition, other premier organizations like ARCI, IITR, IITB, IIT Ropar, DST (C3E division), Hyderabad Battery Limited, Oorja Energy, Indi Energy and many more will be showcasing their products and prototypes. A series of insightful panel discussions shall also be running.
The conference was inaugurated by the Chief Guest Padma Bhushan Dr. V. K. Saraswat, Honorable Member, NITI Aayog in the presence of Prof. KK Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee and Prof. B. V. R. Chowdari (BVRC), MRS-Singapore. The eminent scientists working in the energy storage area were present in the inaugural ceremony including Prof. Arumugam Manthiram, University of Texas; Prof. Satishchandra Ogale, Director, RISE, TCG Crest; Prof. Ram B. Gupta, Virginia Commonwealth University, Prof. Dominique Guyomard, Jean Rouxel Institute of Materials in Nantes.
Prof. Dominique Guyomard, Jean Rouxel Institute of Materials in Nantes is the Chair for the technical session of the conference on the first day of the conclave with lectures from Prof. Arumugam Manthiram, Prof. Satishchandra Ogale, and Prof. Ram B. Gupta. Day two of the event shall witness the inauguration of the Defence Industry-Academia Conclave and Exhibition and the felicitation of Prof. B. V. R. Chowdari (BVRC), Senior Executive Director and President Emeritus of MRS-Singapore & Director IUMRS. Day three of the conclave shall be chaired by Prof. Arumugam Manthiram, The University of Texas at Austin having lectures of Prof. Clare P. Grey, University of Cambridge, UK; Dr. T. N. Rao, Director, ARCI; Dr. S. Loganathan, DRDO; Prof. A. Mukhopadhyay, IIT Bombay. Day four shall be chaired by Prof. K. Ramesha, Director, CSIR-CECRI with Prof. B.B. Kale, CMET; Prof. Prabhakar Singh, IIT BHU joining as speakers. The last day of this conclave also features Young Battery Researcher Award Presentation at APJ Block, LHC followed by the Valedictory Function and Award Ceremony.
In his address, Padma Bhushan Dr. V. K. Saraswat, Honorable Member, NITI Aayog, discussed the relevance of various kinds of energy storage devices including Li-ion batteries, beyond li-ion batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells for e-mobility and stationary energy storage. He elaborated on how India is moving forward on the roadmap for renewable energy generation and its storage to mitigate carbon emissions and build a sustainable society. He emphasized that the alternative to lithium batteries is very much required to make India self-reliant. Witnessing the demonstration of sodium-ion battery technology, he mentioned that IIT Roorkee-based startup Indi Energy is doing good work from materials to device fabrications indicating their edge over other technologies due to the indigenous supply chain. This sodium-ion battery technology has to be scaled up collectively. He also emphasized the role of research and development., scientists, industries, and policymakers and congratulated the IIT Roorkee team for bringing them on a single platform for engaging discussions.”
In his address, Prof K K Pant, Director, of IIT Roorkee, said, “In addressing the imperative goal of utilizing 400 GW of renewable energy by 2030, Prof. K. K. Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, emphasized the pivotal role of electrifying transportation and deploying renewable energy while reducing fossil fuel consumption. Recognizing the pressing need for effective reuse of Li-ion/Na or Al batteries in the off-road phase, he highlighted the significance of the IMESD platform to address these concerns collaboratively. The discussions held during the meeting are poised to not only foster research in energy storage but also drive innovative breakthroughs, steering us towards a sustainable future.”
Convener, Prof Yogesh Kumar Sharma was enthusiastic to welcome distinguished speakers and participants from IISc, IITs, and different organizations from the USA, UK, Singapore, Sweden, France, and UAE. He emphasized the need for innovations in the area of energy storage devices for Renewable energy integration, manufacturing with clean energy, and sustainable mobility. Dr Sharma focused on the need for indigenous batteries for safe, eco-friendly, and cost-effective electric vehicles and grid storage.
8, Dec 2023
NTPC Electron Quiz 2023 Grand Finale Unveils Thrilling Battle of Minds
Mumbai, December 08, 2023: The eagerly awaited NTPC Electron Quiz 2023 culminated in a spectacular finale held today at the Power Management Institute (PMI), NTPC in Noida.
The finale brought together the brightest minds from six prestigious management and engineering institutions: Osmania University, IIM Bodh Gaya, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Indore, FMS Delhi, and IIM Kolkata.
Saneya Rafeeque and Saniya Mahreen from Osmania University emerged victorious at the intense competition and were awarded prize money of Rs 50,000. The second prize of Rs. 30,000 went to Piyush Kedla and Arnab Mondal from IIM Kolkata, while Sushant Adlakhar and Shashank Tyagu from the Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) Delhi University, secured the third prize of Rs 20,000. In addition, three consolation prizes of Rs 8,000 were awarded.
Shri Dilip Kumar Patel, Director (HR), NTPC graced the occasion in the presence of Shri Sital Kumar, Executive Director (UPL & HR), Ms. Rachna Singh Bhal, Head (PMI), Shri Gautam Bose, Quiz Master and CEO (Greycells) and senior officials of NTPC, students from various institutes.
The journey to the grand finale involved 17 qualifying teams from premier engineering and management institutes, selected from the semi-final held a day earlier at PMI, Noida.
These competitions serve as a testament to NTPC’s dedication to fostering excellence and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.
Launched in 2004, the NTPC Electron Quiz has evolved into an annual quizzing carnival. This year’s edition garnered an overwhelming response, with approximately 800 teams participating across all regions. The substantial turnout underscores the enthusiasm of quizzers eager to engage in this flagship quiz program conducted by NTPC.
The company reaffirms its commitment to providing platforms for both employees and their families, through similar quizzing competitions such as Medha Pratiyogita, as well as for bright young minds in premier Engineering and Management institutes through events like the Electron Quiz.
8, Dec 2023
Dr. Bhatia Medical Coaching Institute (DBMCI) Forges Strategic Partnership with Japan’s M3, Inc. to Elevate Medical PG Preparation in India
New Delhi, 8th December 2023 – Dr. Bhatia Medical Coaching Institute (DBMCI) is pleased to announce a groundbreaking joint venture with M3, Inc., a prominent Japanese entity. The collaboration aims to reinforce both offline and online preparatory services for medical students across India.
Under this joint venture, DBMCI will strengthen its offline business operations, with a focus on in-person classes and live video-based coaching for national medical entrance examinations. By leveraging the expertise and technology of M3 Group, DBMCI seeks to enhance the digital learning experience for its students.
This partnership marks M3’s entry into the offline preparatory school business for doctors and medical students in India, complementing its existing online learning platform. The collaboration is expected to broaden the spectrum of learning opportunities and improve the quality of learning services, thereby contributing significantly to the advancement of medical care in India.
M3, Inc., operating a specialized web portal for medical professionals, provides healthcare-related information to over 320,000 physician members in Japan and 6.5 million physicians globally. Through its subsidiary, M3 Group offers the learning platform “Marrow” for medical PG preparation in India.
Dr. Nachiket Bhatia, CEO of DBMCI, expressed confidence in the joint venture, stating, “This collaboration with M3 marks a transformative moment for us. Combining our offline expertise with M3’s digital prowess will redefine medical education standards in India. The partnership reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to excellence in medical education, with a collective vision to shape the future of medical professionals in the country.”
Established in 1996 by Dr. Mukesh Bhatia, DBMCI has been a pioneer in post-graduate medical entrance examinations. The institute provides coaching for PG NEET and FMGE examinations through various methods, including pre-recorded lectures, live video classes (both at home and in centers), and face-to-face centers distributed across India. With a rich history of nurturing proficient doctors, DBMCI has consistently delivered quality education since its inception.
KPMG India played a crucial role as the exclusive transaction advisor to DBMCI and its shareholders, facilitating seamless collaboration between the two entities. This mutual alliance represents a significant step toward providing future medical professionals with an unparalleled learning opportunity.
8, Dec 2023
WION’s Senior Anchor Molly Gambhir steers conversations on global relations at Global Technology Summit 2023
In a recent high-level symposium delving into the realms of geopolitics, technology partnerships, and the dynamic shifts in global relations, Molly Gambhir, Senior News Anchor at WION, adeptly moderated the discussion at the Global Technology Summit 2023. Throughout the session, pivotal points emerged, highlighting the evolving dynamics of UK-India relations, particularly within the context of Free Trade Agreement negotiations.
Another key highlight revolved around the role of standard setting, with a specific emphasis on nations, notably India, becoming influential entities in establishing standards in technology and trade. Recognizing this proactive role as pivotal could alleviate security tensions and shape norms and standards that facilitate economic integration.
The panel discussion also resonated with optimism and shared learning experiences. Ambassadors exchanged positive anecdotes and conveyed optimism about the future, highlighting the dynamic essence of India, its cultural continuity, and the immense potential for growth through international collaborations as valuable learning experiences.
Additionally, the summit provided invaluable insights into the intricate interplay of geopolitics, technology, and global partnerships, underscoring the imperative for collaborative endeavors to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in an ever-evolving world.
