31, Oct 2023
Temple Connect Launches ‘Smart Temples Mission’ to Revolutionize Spiritual Experience with Technology
October 31st, 2023: For centuries, temples have been the epicentres of collective operations management, with tradition and rituals at their core. However, the contemporary era of technological advancements has prompted many temples worldwide to adopt innovative solutions for the convenience of devotees. Temple Connect, the brainchild of Giresh Kulkarni, Founder of Temple Connect and the International Temples Convention & Expo, is spearheading the “Smart Temples Mission” Smart Temples Mission is a unique initiative set to modernize temples by leveraging technology to enhance administration, streamline operations, and improve overall management. This mission addresses a wide range of crucial aspects including safety, security, surveillance, disaster planning & management, mobile toilets or convenience rooms, festival coordination, food management, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), funds management, and more
Smart temples boast an array of features, including state-of-the-art security and monitoring systems that ensure the safety of devotees and their belongings, providing a sense of security. Additionally, digital donation systems Block chain-based donation management systems make contributing to temples more accessible in an era where cashless transactions are preferred. This not only ensures efficiency but also enhances transparency in financial management for temple authorities. Moreover, smart temples play a role in environmental sustainability by efficiently managing resources like electricity and water. The ‘Smart Temples Mission’ is committed to bridging any gaps in the efficient management of the temple ecosystem throughout the country to begin with and extend it globally at all places of devotion and spirituality.
With its extensive network of temples and a presence in over 57 global locations, Temple Connect is actively collaborating with temple trusts, innovators, organizations with specialized solutions, technology providers, and service providers across the globe through the Smart Temples Mission. Their shared mission revolves around ensuring a “Convenience Centric Approach for the Devotee or Pilgrim through the Smart Temples Mission,” which not only boosts temple and pilgrim tourism but also supports the flourishing of temple-dependent economies. Leveraging their wealth of expertise and reach covering over 9,864 temples in various locations, Temple Connect offers easily accessible information online through its social media platforms for devotees of all kinds of temples, big and small.
Giresh Kulkarni, the visionary Founder of Temple Connect and the International Temples Convention & Expo, stated, “We are poised to embark on a transformative journey that aims to deliver a more organized and efficiently structured temple ecosystem for both devotees and temple owners across the segment globally. The introduction of the Smart Temples Mission represents a major milestone in our overarching mission to seamlessly blend ancient wisdom with cutting-edge modern technology.”
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- By Rabindra
31, Oct 2023
NMIMS SBM Hyderabad Student Creates History by Topping the Campus at ‘Niti Shastra’ Case Study Competition
Hyderabad, October 2023: Shimir Mishra, a dedicated and studious first-year Master in Business Administration (MBA) student from SVKM’s School of Business Management (SBM) Hyderabad, created history after he was adjudged as the campus winner at the national level case study competition, ‘Niti Shastra’ organised by Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM) Pune in the month of August 2023.
‘Niti Shastra’ is a case study competition designed to challenge participants’ ethical reasoning and decision-making skills using a real-world case study. The competition is divided into three rounds. The first round consists of an MCQ round, a quiz that consists of 30 questions related to government policy, economies, rates, public figures, and current affairs. In order to qualify for the next stage, participants are required to get a minimum of 26 questions right. Shimir, armed with knowledge about current affairs and a keen interest in analysing case studies, cleared the first round with ease.
In the subsequent round, participants are provided with a real-life case study and are required to prepare a PowerPoint presentation enlisting the important aspects of the case study and suggesting solutions. In the third round, an expert jury rates the presentations and asks students to demonstrate the ways in which the proposed solutions could be implemented in the real world.
Shimir was provided with a case study about an emission scandal by the car company, Volkswagen, and was required to propose a well-reasoned solution. He thoroughly analysed the case and read about it on verified media portals. His key findings were based on multiple parameters, including, ethical frameworks, stakeholders’ perspectives, and the potential consequences of their proposed actions.
The talented student prepared a comprehensive multi-slide solution based on his findings. According to Shimir, his key learnings from the case study were that managers and decision-makers must follow ethics no matter what the real-life situation. He firmly believes that ethics play an important role in the professional realm and abiding by the rules and regulations helps deal with ethical dilemmas.
Asked about his preparation, Shimir elaborates that he always keeps a keen eye on current affairs, domestic as well as international. He regularly consumes news from leading newspapers like The Hindu and The Economic Times and many other leading news providers. Being a regular at case study competitions, he has learned to follow and thoroughly analyse every real-life case he comes across. He also makes competition-specific preparations in order to stay ahead of the curve. The immense experience gained from participating in a diverse range of competitions has made the process natural for Shimir.
Shimir’s consistent participation in such competitions has helped him in his academic learning too. Managing his academic learning at NMIMS SBM Hyderabad along with preparation for the various co-curricular activities has taught him the important life skill of time management.
Shimir believes that students pursuing an MBA and aspiring to become future business managers must participate in competitions like ‘Niti Shastra’ as they help them to prepare for pre-placement interviews and post-placement offers. The skills and understanding of various topics gained from these competitions help aspiring managers to be better equipped to deal with the challenges of the future. Reflecting on the critical role of such contests in shaping a student’s career, he says, “The deep insights and immense knowledge participants gain from such platforms arms them with a mindset that is critical to their success in their MBA journey.”
Before ‘Niti Shastra’, Shimir had participated in 12 prominent case study competitions, namely, Foresight & Havoc from IIM Bangalore, Flipkart Wired, TVS Credit, Amazon, HUL Lime and more. Even though he succeeded in the preliminary rounds of all the competitions, he could not achieve success in the later stages. The setbacks taught him perseverance and motivated him to participate in more such contests. “The learnings from the previous events have been huge and helped me gain a more mature perspective while preparing for Niti Shastra and other such upcoming contests,” Shimir says, about his learnings from the past.
Shimir attributes his success at Niti Shastra to the immense help and support he received from the esteemed faculty members at NMIMS SBM Hyderabad at every stage of the competition. “All my doubts were promptly cleared and even my PPT was first reviewed by the faculty members at SBM,” he said.
Shimir looks forward to furthering his skills and participating in similar events in the future. He is already competing at prestigious competitions like Trendsetter by DS Group, EY Techlathon, MERCER, and more.
SVKM’s NMIMS Hyderabad encourages an on-campus environment where students are motivated to not only excel at academics but also showcase their talent in co-curricular activities. Shimir’s journey so far has been extremely encouraging and motivating for fellow students and has made the faculty members at NMIMS SBM Hyderabad proud. NMIMS SBM Hyderabad is extremely proud to provide a platform for students like Shimir Mishra to thrive and succeed in their MBA journey.
31, Oct 2023
I feel the makers were very clear in their head what they wanted and how they wanted to approach the second season”, shares Shantanu Maheshwari
Mumbai, 31 October 2023: Amazon miniTV – Amazon’s free streaming service presented with the best Navratri gift to the viewers with the second season of Campus Beats. This season delves deeper into the budding passion between Ishaan and Netra, following the journey of students at the Mumbai University of Movement and Dance, a.k.a. M.A.D as they cope with new obstacles and turmoil, engage in mushy romance, and discover the mystery. After the success of the first season, Shantanu Maheshwari, who plays Ishaan in this dance drama, shared his thoughts about the second season.
While talking about his experience shooting for the second season, Shantanu said, “I had an amazing time shooting the second season of Campus Beats. People are often skeptical about the second season’s release, but I believe the creators were clear in their heads about what they wanted and how they wanted to approach the second season. The script was fantastic. I loved how we dove deep into personal equations in the second season, showing characters getting involved in their decision-making and ability and then doubting those abilities as well as the personal equation under scrutiny. That is something I love about season two, the way in the first season we have established everyone and their relationship and how we dive deep into their relationships in season two. At the same time, not stopping the overall arc of the story. So yeah, I loved it. I can also say that the audience enjoyed it, which is why season three is being requested.”
The dance drama, directed by Palki Malhotra, stars Shantanu Maheshwari, Shruti Sinha, Sahaj Singh Chahal, Tanvi Gadkari, Harsh Dingwanii, Tanya Bhushan, Dhanshree Yadav, Teriya Magar, Adnaan Khan, and Rohan Pal in pivotal roles. Campus Beats is streaming on Amazon miniTV. You can download the Amazon miniTV on Playstore, or watch within the Amazon Shopping App or on Fire TV.
31, Oct 2023
Manipal Institute of Technology Achieves National Recognition with Selection for ‘100 5G Labs Initiative’ by DoT, Government of India
Bengaluru, 31 October 2023: In a significant stride towards technological excellence, the Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), under the Manipal Academy of Higher Education, has been chosen by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, as one of the proud recipients of the prestigious “100 5G labs Initiative.” The announcement was made during a virtual ceremony hosted by the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the Indian Mobile Congress (IMC-23), Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on October 27, 2023.
This visionary program, a collaboration between the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), saw the inauguration of 100 5G labs across various prestigious institutions in India. IMC-23, recognized as Asia’s leading technology exposition, provided a global stage for this monumental event, bringing together thought leaders and innovators to showcase the latest in digital technology.
MIT Manipal has established itself as a premier hub for technological development with this recognition, positioning the institute at the vanguard of India’s digital revolution in telecommunications. The 5G lab, comprising state-of-the-art equipment like 5G Stand Alone infrastructure, 5G SIMs, Dongles, IoT Gateway, Router, and an Application Server, will empower MIT Manipal to contribute significantly to the nation’s 5G readiness.
The ownership of these lab assets will remain with the MIT Manipal, both during and after the completion of the project, ensuring long-term benefits and sustained innovation. This initiative marks a crucial step forward in India’s journey towards embracing 5G technology, unlocking new horizons of innovation and growth across various sectors.
Speaking on the occasion Commander (Dr) Anil Rana, Director, Manipal Institute of Technology told “We are immensely proud to be selected for the ‘100 5G labs Initiative’ by the Department of Telecommunications. This is a monumental milestone for MIT Manipal, and it underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in education and research. With the establishment of the 5G lab, we are set to play a pivotal role in India’s digital transformation, paving the way for breakthroughs in telecommunications and beyond.”
Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the entire MIT community, recognizing the award as a testament to the institute’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.
31, Oct 2023
Optum brings their Geographically Inclusive Volunteer Event (G.I.V.E.) to Bengaluru to partner with Asha, Need Base India and Youth for Seva.
Bengaluru, 31st October 2023: Optum team members volunteered at multiple NGOs across Bengaluru to connect with local communities and to help make a positive difference.
This was part of the annual Geographically Inclusive Volunteer Event (G.I.V.E.) at Optum, taking place between October 3-15, 2023. Optum is a leading health solution and care delivery organization, part of UnitedHealth Group (UHG), a Fortune 5 company.
The volunteers from Optum partnered with NGOs including,
Academy for Severe Handicaps and Autism (ASHA), to help children with autism in their daily communication through a placard creation activity
Youth for Seva, to promote a message of community volunteerism through interactive activities with a group of diverse beneficiaries, based on their interest areas
Need Base India, to engage with children through the medium of games, art, and storytelling
Through G.I.V.E., the aim is to foster an environment of sensitivity, empathy, and hope while providing team members a platform to care, connect, and grow together.
31, Oct 2023
Beach Clean-up at Mahim Beach by the Valorant playing community
Recently, a meaningful beach cleanup at Mahim Beach was carried out by the Valorant playing community to commemorate one year since the introduction of the first Indian agent, Harbor.
This also marked an entire year of India’s presence in the Valorant’s in-game ecosystem and serves as a unique opportunity for Global Esports, the unrivalled leader in South Asia’s gaming scene to engage with and give back to the Indian gaming community.
The entire team of Global Esports including Founders Dr. Rushindra Sinha & Mohit Israney were present. Others in participation included popular esports athletes Binks, Pinkcess, Casper, Jimmy Gaming, Harsh Khelraay, SkRossi, and the management and creators from various organizations
Global Esports (GE) is also the only South Asian Riot-partnered team in the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) and have recently announced their roster for the 2024 season.
31, Oct 2023
TiE Global Summit Singapore to Welcome Karnataka’s Top 25 Start-ups in an Exclusive Showcase Pavilion
Bengaluru: Start-up Showcase, a government-sponsored initiative by the Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with TiE Bangalore and Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, extends a warm invitation to all startups and Elevate startup winners interested in joining the exclusive Karnataka delegation. Under the patronage of the KDEM and with unwavering support from the Department of Electronics, IT, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, this presents an unparalleled opportunity for startups. TiE Bangalore is diligently orchestrating this exceptional event, providing an extraordinary platform for innovation and growth.
The delegation will proudly represent the state at the prestigious TiE Global Summit and the Singapore Fintech Festival 2023. For startups eager to register and seize this opportunity, early application submissions are encouraged.
The intention of the #25StartupShowcase program is to orchestrate a dynamic delegation comprising TiE Charter Members from various TiE Indian chapters, Karnataka government officials, prominent investors, corporate leaders, and 25 start-ups.
Departing on a charter flight on November 14, 2023, there is an opportunity for start-ups to display, present, and pitch at the special Karnataka Pavilion an exclusive track at the TiE Global Summit. The three days of TGS will entail:
• Display space for selected Start-ups at the exclusive Karnataka Pavilion in TiE Global Summit 2023, engaging with 62,000+ participants from 134+ countries (on a rotation basis over the 3-day period)
• Exclusive mentoring sessions with leaders and luminaries. Engage in 3 days of investor meetings, mentorship, and networking with Asia’s Top 20 CXOs. Opportunity to network in the charter flight with a 100-member delegation, connecting with charter members, officials, investors, and corporate leaders.
• Comprehensive TGS 2023 access pass and receive exclusive invitations to high-profile dinners alongside investors, policymakers, CXOs, and CFOs.
• Periodic ‘Start-up Spotlight’ sessions over the 3-day period. Start-ups participating will have the opportunity to showcase their products/services for only 25% of the regular investment cost
• An opportunity to board an exclusive flight to Singapore, offering the chance to be a part of a 100-member high-powered delegation from Bangalore and to network with esteemed charter members, government officials, investors, and corporate leaders
31, Oct 2023
IPRS is now ranked as the 4th largest Society by revenue in the Asia-Pacific region per CISAC Global Collection Report
In the recently unveiled CISAC Global Collections Report 2023, based on the 2022 collections data, the global music landscape experienced a resurgence, with total global royalties collected from creators reaching a record high of EUR 10.83 billion in 2022 – up by a remarkable 28% – as the world broke free from the pandemic. This growth was fueled by a rebound in live and public performances and a continuous robust expansion in digital revenue. The total sum of creators’ global royalties emanating from digital sources is a whooping EUR 4.1bn. In barely little over a decade, streaming has transformed life for CISAC members and the five million creators it works for.
According to the CISAC report, The Indian Performing Right Society Ltd. (IPRS) ranked as the 4th largest Society by revenues in the Asia-Pacific region and India ranked 23rd amongst the top 50 societies in Collections from Music globally, growing from the earlier 47th position in 2018.
The report reveals that IPRS collected Euro 68 million in revenue in 2022, a remarkable surge of 92.5% over the previous year. These results are indicative of India’s thriving music industry, displaying notable overall growth. It is also a result that corroborates the effort IPRS has put toward making this eye-popping turnaround a reality.
In India, the growth was attributed to the recovery in General Public Performance – Events / Background, Television broadcasting income revenue, and the increased digital revenues permeated throughout the year.
This highlights a positive development as the Society reduced its reliance on digital revenues, whose proportion of the income pool fell from more than 80% in FY 2021-2022 to 67.1% in FY 2022-2023. This diversification gives IPRS more stability and indicates its growing penetration in the market. The outcome was wonderful news for both the music industry as a whole and for the authors/composers and music publishers in particular. The digital revenue growth from 2019 to 2022 soared by an overwhelming 532.7%, reflecting India’s evolving music industry landscape.
The Government has also played a significant role in fortifying the creators’ rights and strengthening IPRS’s presence in the industry. While we are thankful for this support, we look forward to the authorities for adequate enforcement of the music licensing norms for better compliance.
Furthermore, IPRS has undertaken the significant responsibility of fostering the development of similar collection societies in neighboring countries. This commitment extends to the support and promotion of sister collection societies in countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, ensuring they receive the necessary attention during their initial stages of establishment.
Commenting on the same Mr. Javed Akhtar, Chairman of IPRS said, “IPRS, as a Music Copyright Society has been one of the strongest proponents of the rights of the music creator and publisher community in India. It has stood for credit and royalties for its members against odds of non-compliance and reluctance of music users to procure license for music consumption. It is indeed a matter of immense pride that IPRS has managed to garner the outstanding result of ranking the 4th largest Asia Pacific society by collection. The story of the toil behind this feat and the perseverance of our team members is a saga for all time and needs special mention. The age of music streaming has brought in a major shift in music consumption and has further intensified the role of collection societies like IPRS who must constantly tap in and be ever-receptive to a stream of continuously emerging revenue models.
With the scourge of the pandemic behind us, we at IPRS are grooming ourselves and the large Indian music community to be abreast with the opportunities and the challenges AI is bound to bring into the new mix of the music ecosystem in the digital age.”
Sharing his views, CISAC President Björn Ulvaeus, looks ahead to the future impact of AI on creators’ collections. “This year’s results show that the collective management system, despite all the enormous challenges it faces in adapting to digital, is still robust and effective. CMOs have the backs of the creators they serve and are now delivering more money to more creators than ever before. Fresh from COVID and the economic squeeze, what we now face is another serious, existential challenge – that of Artificial intelligence. AI will radically change the world for creators and the creative industry. It demands international leadership and a strong united front from all parts of the creative industry.”
Commenting on the CISAC Report, Mr.Rakesh Nigam, the CEO of The Indian Performing Right Society Limited (IPRS), said, “We are incredibly proud of the IPRS’s remarkable achievement as the 4th largest Society by revenue in the Asia-Pacific region, according to the recent CISAC Global Collections Report. This recognition reaffirms our efforts in safeguarding the royalty rights of our creators. The significant growth, particularly in the digital domain, highlights the ever-evolving music landscape. Licensing agreements with major media entities and a notable increase in income from public performances of music have contributed to a substantial boost in revenues. The challenges in compliance remain an area of serious concern. In the changing music landscape inundated with challenges and opportunities, we remain committed to fostering a thriving environment for our creators and continuing our efforts to better India’s position on the global music stage.”
31, Oct 2023
The Growing Demand for Carbon Offsetting and Carbon Credits: A Crucial Step Towards a Sustainable Future
In recent years, the global conversation around climate change has intensified, leading to increased awareness and urgency regarding the need for sustainable practices. One key area that has gained significant traction is carbon offsetting and carbon credits. Creduce, India’s leading services provider in the field of climate change and carbon asset management, recognizes the pivotal role these measures play in shaping a sustainable future.
Understanding Carbon Offsetting:
Carbon offsetting is a process where individuals, businesses, or governments invest in environmental projects to balance out their own carbon emissions. These projects, such as reforestation initiatives or renewable energy installations, absorb or reduce an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This practice allows entities to neutralize their carbon footprint, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
The Significance of Carbon Credits:
Carbon credits are a key component of carbon offsetting efforts. They represent a unit of measurement for one ton of carbon dioxide or its equivalent gases that have been reduced or removed from the atmosphere. Organizations can buy these credits from projects that have successfully reduced emissions. By purchasing carbon credits, companies can meet their emission reduction targets, support sustainable development initiatives, and contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts.
Factors Driving the Demand:
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Many businesses are recognizing the importance of CSR initiatives, including carbon offsetting, to enhance their public image and contribute to environmental conservation.
Regulatory Compliance: With increasing environmental regulations worldwide, businesses are compelled to reduce their carbon emissions. Carbon offsetting provides a viable avenue for compliance with these regulations.
Consumer Awareness: As consumers become more environmentally conscious, they are demanding that companies take responsibility for their carbon emissions. This push from consumers is driving businesses to invest in carbon-offsetting initiatives.
Climate Change Mitigation: Governments and international organizations are actively promoting carbon offsetting as a practical solution to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. This support further boosts the demand for carbon credits.
Challenges and Opportunities:
While the demand for carbon offsetting and carbon credits is on the rise, several challenges persist. These include ensuring the transparency and effectiveness of offset projects, avoiding greenwashing, and promoting inclusivity in the distribution of benefits from these initiatives.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and improvement. Technological advancements, increased collaboration between governments and private sectors, and robust monitoring mechanisms can enhance the credibility and impact of carbon-offsetting projects.
Conclusion:
The growing demand for carbon offsetting and carbon credits signifies a significant step toward a sustainable future. Creduce, as a leading player in the climate change and carbon asset management sector, remains committed to supporting businesses and organizations in their efforts to reduce carbon emissions. By understanding the significance of carbon offsetting, addressing challenges, and seizing opportunities, society can collectively work towards a greener, more sustainable planet.
30, Oct 2023
Radio City Launches the Future of Radio — Meet RJ SIA, Your AI Radio Companion
India, 30th October 2023: Radio City, a name synonymous with radio entertainment, is pleased to introduce a game-changing addition to its programming that will redefine your radio experience – “AI RJ SIA.” This isn’t just another announcement; it’s a bold invitation to witness the future of radio! In a quest to revolutionize the way they connect with radio, Radio City has harnessed cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to create AI RJ SIA – your AI Radio Jockey! She’s not just an AI, she’s the perfect blend of technology and artistry, poised to become your personalized companion on your radio journey. Brace yourself for an extraordinary level of engagement that goes beyond the ordinary!
AI RJ SIA’s dynamic programming spans an array of genres, topics, and music, ensuring there’s something to resonate with every listener. With AI RJ SIA, you’ll experience radio like never before, as she seamlessly integrates into your daily life, delivering the right music, stories, and conversations when you need them.
Ashit Kukian, Chief Executive Officer of Radio City, is enthusiastic about this groundbreaking leap into the future of radio, declaring, “At Radio City, we believe in the power of combining technology with human creativity. AI RJ SIA is not just an AI, she’s your trusted radio companion. Get ready to be captivated by her mood-adaptive content that resonates with your heart. We’re not just following the future; we’re shaping it. Our vision is “where innovation and the human connection converge, redefining radio in ways never imagined.”
AI RJ SIA is here, India’s smartest AI Radio Jockey, Naam hain AI RJ SIA, Lekar aa rahi hai ek naya show ‘SAY NA SIA’.
Moreover, Radio City has something up its sleeve to elevate your weekends— “Blockbuster Sunday,” where AI RJ SIA takes center stage, transforming your Sundays into a day of extraordinary entertainment and engagement. Sundays will no longer be just another day of the week, they will become a highlight you eagerly anticipate.
