13, Oct 2023
Palate Fest 2023: The Culinary Extravaganza Returns in Grand Style
New Delhi, October 2023: Palate Fest, India’s most renowned culinary extravaganza, comes back to the capital after 4 years with its latest edition, scheduled for November 18th to 19th, 2023, at the heart of central Delhi – Major Dhyan Chand Stadium. Palate Fest is India’s first international-level food festival, originating in 2014 and growing into an annual multi-city event. This year promises to be a unique an immersive experience that brings together a delightful medley of the best in food and beverage, celebrated chefs, diverse cuisines, talented artists, and passionate food enthusiasts for the whole family for all age groups.
This two-day extravaganza will curate a distinctive blend of well-established and emerging brands, all set within an environment that is both enjoyable and accessible. Visitors can look forward to revisiting their favourite restaurants and discovering new food outlets, plus energizing performances by celebrities and renowned artists, and enlightening masterclasses led by distinguished chefs to engage a diverse audience amongst many other exciting experiences. There will also be a dedicated Kids Zone, an ice skating rink, a Gaming Truck, and a range of entertainment activities for the young and young at heart.
Recognized and acclaimed as the best in South Asia, Palate Fest’s focus on regional and local brands has earned acclaim for its steadfast promotion of local and regional culinary excellence, spotlighting the rich tapestry of South Asian flavors and being the only multigenerational festival that can be enjoyed by the whole family. This festival has not only delighted the taste buds of food enthusiasts but has also distinguished itself as a trailblazer in the media industry, garnering accolades for its innovative approach. In a notable achievement, Palate Fest received honors at the INMA Global Media Awards in 2018, underscoring its exceptional contributions to both the culinary and media landscapes. This prestigious recognition took the form of two distinguished awards, solidifying Palate Fest’s status as a world-class event of paramount significance.
Ms. Aditi Kapoor, Co-Founder & Director at Palate Fest adds, ‘We have worked to bring this fest together with the same excitement as before. We have collaborated and reached out to the best in the hospitality sector, to create diversity with over 100 food stalls, with both renowned and new brands. We are looking forward to a great response and enjoyment for an audience profile, which ranges from youth, families, and food aficionados.”
Ms. Ruchi Sibal, Co-Founder & Director at Palate Fest adds,’ We are thrilled to announce the grand return of Palate Fest, India’s most renowned culinary extravaganza in New Delhi. This year’s edition promises to surpass all expectations. We have an estimated daily footfall of 30,000 attendees, Palate Fest November 2023 is set to redefine the culinary landscape. This year the festival’s scope is even larger than before.”
Join us at Palate Fest on 18th and 19th November 2023 for a gastronomic journey like no other, where food, culture, and entertainment come together to create unforgettable memories.
Booking is available through Paytm Insider.
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- By Rabindra
13, Oct 2023
More entrepreneurship opportunities for state’s youth as CM-ELEVATE is launched in Tura
Mumbai/Shillong, October 13: Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad Sangma launched the CM-ELEVATE an Integrated event in Tura on October 13, where reassuring that the program is aimed at engaging, employing, and empowering the youth of Meghalaya through entrepreneurship. The day also marked the distribution of Cheques under the YESS Meghalaya Initiative.
The programme was initiated after a welcome speech by Shri Jagdish Chelani, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills. Addressing the August Assemblage, Honourable Chief Minister, Shri Conrad Sangma said, “We want to emphasize on the role of each minister in making this initiative comprehensive and impactful. CM-Elevate is our flagship initiative designed to make our youth, the partners in the development of our beloved state. We have set ambitious goals, with the intention of creating entrepreneurship opportunities for over 20,000 individuals in the span of three years, across sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and more. This initiative comes with a total investment of approximately 300 crores over three years.”
He informed that the government is providing financial support ranging from 35 to 75 percent of the project cost to mitigate the risks associated with credit. He called upon individuals from Meghalaya, registered entities, and non-registered collectives, such as Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Village Organizations (VOs), and Producer Groups (PGs) from Meghalaya, to apply for the program.
The Honourable Chief Minister Shri Conrad Sangma further added that the Tourism Department is offering four remarkable schemes under CM-Elevate. The Green Villa Scheme, the Homestay Scheme, the Motorhome Meghalaya Scheme, and the PRIME Tourism Vehicle Scheme are set to transform our tourism sector. These initiatives not only provide subsidies but also create job opportunities. The government is anticipating around 700 direct employment opportunities and numerous indirect jobs, benefiting the youth of Meghalaya.
Referring to the YESS Initiative, Shri Conrad Sangma also informed that the total application through YESS is around 1500.
The programme also rendered focus on Prime Tourism Vehicle Allocation and Prime Agriculture Response Vehicles (PARVs). Accordingly, six Prime Tourism Vehicles were allocated to boost tourism in Garo Hills. These vehicles will enhance the tourist experience and support local tourism-related businesses. The Government has allocated 46 PARVs to empower the farmers and improve agricultural practices. These vehicles will help the farmers increase their productivity and sustain their livelihoods.
Another important scheme, on which the programme shed light was the Homestay Scheme. The Government has reached 76 beneficiaries through the Homestay Scheme in Garo Hills, thereby supporting the local communities by creating additional income opportunities through tourism.
Notably, the Garo Hills have a total of 19,308 Self-Help Groups, playing a crucial role in empowerment and development. An impressive 136.85 Crores have been disbursed to support the activities and projects of these SHGs. This financial support is driving local entrepreneurship and economic growth.
Outlining the importance of Green Meghalaya, the Honorable Chief Minister said, “We’ve disbursed Rs 6.56 crores to support eco-friendly projects under the Green Meghalaya program. This investment in sustainable initiatives is helping preserve our natural resources. The 290 beneficiaries are environmental stewards, working towards a greener and cleaner Garo Hills. The funds disbursed are a testament to our commitment to a sustainable and eco-friendly future.” Notably, the Green Meghalaya initiative has already benefited 290 individuals in Garo Hills and the beneficiaries are contributing to environmental sustainability and conservation.
13, Oct 2023
iThink Logistics and India Post unite to boost e-commerce deliveries across the deepest parts of the country
Mumbai: October 13, 2023: iThink Logistics, a top name in advanced logistics technology and one of India’s leading shipping platforms has joined hands with India Post, the country’s premier postal network. The alliance will result in a landmark tech integration that promises to reshape the landscape of last-mile delivery. This strategic partnership is to bring immense benefits to Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) startups and small and medium businesses (SMBs) across India.
The heart of this collaboration lies in the shared mission of empowering D2C businesses to extend their reach beyond urban hubs. The E-commerce penetration rates in tier 2 and tier 3 cities stood at an impressive 21.4% and 41.5% respectively in 2022. While marketplace giants like Flipkart, Myntra, and Meesho have established a strong foothold in these regions, independent e-commerce brands often grapple with the challenge of limited serviceability.
The convergence of iThink Logistics’ cutting-edge technology with India Post’s extensive reach addresses this challenge head-on. By combining India Post’s unparalleled reach, even in the remotest corners of the country, with iThink Logistics’ advanced technology and rapid services, logistics operations are set to undergo a revolutionary transformation. These two pivotal factors are crucial for D2C companies to thrive in today’s fast-paced business environment.
“We are truly excited about this groundbreaking partnership with India Post. Our collaboration symbolizes the fusion of vision and innovation, where we harness the power of technology and the extensive reach of India Post to propel Direct-to-Consumer startups and small and medium businesses into a new era of logistical excellence. With this alliance, we are not only bridging geographical gaps but also empowering businesses of all sizes to embrace the full potential of E-commerce, transforming the way products reach customers and redefining customer experiences.” – “Ms. Zaiba Sarang, Co-Founder of iThink Logistics”
An outstanding aspect of this arrangement is the potential to create economical deliveries, particularly in rural areas with less developed logistics infrastructure. India Post’s experience and wide-ranging network complement iThink Logistics’ technological capabilities, promising efficiency, dependability, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
As the volume of shipments increases, so does the likelihood of logistical-related queries, such as ‘WISMO’ (Where is my order?), which can cause post-purchase anxiety for buyers. In this context, iThink Logistics’ advanced technology is pivotal, facilitating a proactive approach to customer support and elevating the overall shopping experience.
“India Post is immensely proud to join hands with iThink Logistics in this transformative endeavor. Our legacy of service, built over decades, combined with iThink Logistics’ forward-thinking technological prowess, heralds a new era in the logistics industry. This collaboration is a fusion of tradition and innovation, and it opens up exciting new opportunities to reach every touchpoint in India. Our nationwide network, spanning the length and breadth of the nation, is the ideal complement to iThink Logistics’ state-of-the-art solutions.” – “Shri Amitabh Singh, PMG, Mails and BD, Maharashtra Postal Circle at India Post”
This landmark collaboration between India Post and iThink Logistics marks a momentous step, leveraging the strengths of both entities to optimize last-mile delivery operations across the nation. With a focus on enhanced accessibility, operational efficiency, and unparalleled customer experiences, this partnership is set to catalyze the growth of D2C startups and SMBs in the evolving e-commerce landscape.
13, Oct 2023
Sony BBC ushers in the festive spirit with Diwali line-up
National, October 13, 2023: Sony BBC Earth, the premier destination for world-class factual entertainment, is all set to illuminate Diwali with its property ‘Festival of Life’. The channel will take viewers on a grand cinematic voyage with power-packed premieres of 12 shows that promise to entertain, enlighten, and inspire them.
From breathtaking wildlife encounters to riveting explorations of the Earth’s most remarkable phenomena, the ‘Festival of Life’ brings forth a host of awe-inspiring shows and documentaries. From a visual deep dive to encounter enigmatic underwater giants with ‘Chasing Monsters’ to capturing untamed landscapes and wildlife that bring alive the mythical legacies of Odin and Thor with ‘Wild Scandinavia’, the channel has something in store for nature and culture aficionados of every colour.
For those gastronomically inclined, Joanna Lumley’s ‘Spice Trail Adventure shares the origin stories of cherished spices across continents, leaving a vibrant food and culture trail. ‘South Korea with Alexander Armstrong’ and ‘Alexander Armstrong in Sri Lanka’ explore the hidden treasures of bustling Korean culture and the rich cultural kaleidoscope of Sri Lanka. ‘Africa with Ade Adepitan’ takes viewers on an odyssey across expansive Africa, delving into its myriad cultures and breathtaking scenery. Taking to the wild, Serengeti returns with a fresh season, capturing the unfiltered essence of survival in Africa’s lush plains, whereas ‘Dogs in the Wild’ provides an intimate glimpse of the life of an astonishing animal family.
That’s not it! For those who focus on wellness, ‘Vitamin Pills – Miracle or Myth?’ and ‘Horizon Hair Care Secrets’ will serve some food for thought debunking myths in health and beauty.
‘Panorama: Are You Scared Yet, Human?’ is all set to take us on an artificial intelligence (AI) adventure, sharing how AI has transformed our world and its future, complete with a warning of how technology can be a threat too.
Make this Diwali a memorable one by tuning in to Sony BBC Earth’s ‘Festival of Life’, with a curated tapestry of experiences that are sure to leave a lasting imprint.
Airing from October 16th to November 10th, get ready for a whirlwind of 12 show premieres, every Monday to Friday from 08:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Watch Chasing Monsters Season 3 and 4, Wild Scandinavia, Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure, Dogs In The Wild, South Korea With Alexander, Vitamin Pills- Miracle Or Myth?, Horizon Hair Care Secrets, Serengeti Season 3, Alexander Armstrong In Sri Lanka, Panorama Are You Scared Yet, Human? and Africa With Ade Adepitan.
13, Oct 2023
ONGC Installs State-of-the-Art CO2 Core Flood Apparatus
A Significant Leap in CCUS Capacity Development
Mumbai | 13 October 2023: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has identified Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) as a fundamental component of its energy transition strategy. ONGC’s in-house Institute of Reservoir Studies (IRS) in Ahmedabad is at the forefront of this effort. In line with ONGC’s visionary Net-Zero 2038 initiative (Scope-1 and Scope-2), IRS has achieved a significant milestone by successfully installing and commissioning a cutting-edge Carbon dioxide (CO2) Core Flood Apparatus. This state-of-the-art apparatus is a vital addition to the IRS’s Gas Injection & CCUS Laboratory. It enables advanced studies and experiments related to CCUS, positioning the IRS as a key player in the development of CCUS technologies.
The CCUS CO2 Core Flood Apparatus
The newly acquired CO2 Core Flood Apparatus is designed to replicate underground reservoir conditions, allowing for physical simulation and assessment of CO2 behavior in reservoir rocks, quantifying incremental oil recovery, and evaluating sequestration potential. Key features of this equipment include precision control, high-quality imaging, and real-time monitoring of pH and density, providing invaluable insights in real time. The apparatus is constructed from corrosion-resistant Hastelloy material, ensuring longevity and reliability even in carbon dioxide-rich environments. With an operational range of up to 150 degrees Celsius and 10,000 psi pressure, it can withstand extreme conditions, furthering our understanding of CCUS processes and optimizing schemes.
IRS has a rich history of conducting laboratory and numerical simulation studies related to CCUS for ONGC’s fields. It is a multidisciplinary team, including Reservoir Engineers, Geologists, Geophysicists, and Chemists, along with existing laboratory facilities, has paved the way for in-depth research in this field. Core flooding, a crucial component of CCUS project design, provides essential laboratory data for the tuning of numerical simulators.
13, Oct 2023
Digital content creators discuss opportunities and challenges of social media influencers at The Southern Rising Summit
Chennai, October 13: Popular digital content creators Chaithania Prakash, Ardhra Sajan, and Deepika Venkatachalam participated in a session titled “Social Media: Playground or Business School?” at ABP Network’s The Southern Rising Summit. They gathered to share their insights on the evolving digital landscape and to discuss the opportunities and challenges faced by social media influencers.
Chaithania Prakash, a digital content creator, shared her perspective, saying, “As influencers, we have a responsibility to ensure that nothing negative impacts our followers. We make sure the content we provide is of high quality to avoid any negative influence on our followers.”
Ardhra Sajan, another Digital Content Creator, spoke about her journey, stating, “Initially, we didn’t know what to do on social media. Our follower count gradually increased, which brought a sense of responsibility. I started promoting products, but I received negative comments. So, I became more selective in my promotions to be a trusted influencer. The number of followers doesn’t matter; what’s important is the value we provide and our personal growth. Negative comments about physical appearance don’t bother me. What truly matters is my self-perception, which is what I want to convey to my followers.”
Highlighting challenges, Deepika Venkatachalam, a digital content creator said, “Some influencers are promoting betting apps, which negatively affect people’s lives, and I find this distressing. Everything is becoming digital, and people are seeking shortcuts. We have a responsibility to follow laws and use hashtags for paid collaborations to make it clear to viewers that it’s a promotional partnership. I believe this is a positive initiative from the government. More than just the numbers, what matters is engagement. Building confidence and engaging with followers is more important.”
The Southern Rising Summit was conceptualized and organized by ABP Network as a tribute to the exceptional growth, cultural richness, and societal harmony exemplified by the southern states of India. The summit aimed to celebrate the spirit and diversity of the southern states, united in a common mission to drive a transformative journey for India. The event featured profound discussions and insights from influential figures in South Indian states and Union Territories.
13, Oct 2023
Cinematic Trailblazers Suhasini Maniratnam and Kushboo Sundar Illuminate ABP Network’s ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit
Chennai, 13th October 2023 – “There are people who don’t think about Box Office. In our generation we used to work for success and not for money. I want the smaller, meaningful films to reach the masses,” renowned actress Suhasini Maniratnam, said sharing her observation around changing trends in film industry at the ABP Network’s ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit.
On being asked if things have changed for women in the industry, Suhasini remarked, “The world of cinema is the same. Women have changed. They have begun standing-up for themselves.”
Speaking at the session, “Making New Myths – Recreating the Old”, Suhasini recalled how Maniratnam made the historic epic Ponniyin Selvan. “I asked him not to make this film. After the failure of some of the politic-historic films we make, I was uncertain, if this idea would work,” she revealed and further added, “The thing that worked for the success of PS, was the fact that the story of Ponniyin Selvan has been there in our culture. People loved it even before we made it.”
Speaking at the session, ‘Reinvention and Resurgence – Staying Alive in the Movies’, celebrated actress turned politician, Kushboo Sundar, shared a reflection from her personal life, “I slept like a log after coming out in open of being a victim of child sexual abuse. There’s nothing for me to be ashamed off.”
“We are yet to arrive in the South and it will rule and provide when it arrives.” Khusboo said, sharing her perspective on BJP’s role in the south. She further remarked, “Change takes time. Economy is booming. You cannot blame a party which is ruling for 9 years for unemployment.”
The ‘Southern Rising’ Summit is a convergence of the old and the new, a space where cinematic legends share their wisdom, and emerging talents find inspiration. Conceptualized and instituted by ABP Network, ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit is a tribute to the exceptional growth, cultural opulence, and societal harmony exemplified by the southern states of India. It aims to celebrate the spirit and richness of southern states, united on a singular mission of driving a transformative journey for India. The summit thus witnesses profound deliberations and sharing of insights by the movers and shakers of South Indian states and Union Territories.
13, Oct 2023
6th Megha Kayak Festival: Water Sport Spectacle on the Umtrew begins
Mumbai, 13th October 2023: The Umtrew River experienced waves of excitement as the 6th Megha Kayak Festival officially kicked off today, at the Shillong White Water village in Umtham of Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi District. Organized by the Ri Bhoi Water Sports and Tourism Corporation Society Limited, this festival became the light of the day under sponsorship and guidance by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, and in collaboration with the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association (IKCA).
The three-day event, set to be a thrilling experience for the participants and the spectators will continue till the 14th of October. This year, the festival takes pride in its rich diversity, with a wide-ranging group of participants. This includes an impressive squad of 25 international kayakers hailing from various corners of the globe. Participating countries include Sri Lanka, Switzerland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, the Czech Republic, Australia, Norway, Chile, Mexico, Germany, and France, along with 8 talented kayakers from India’s Meghalaya and one from Arunachal Pradesh.
Meghalaya’s own talent shines brightly in the intermediate category of today’s event, with a total of 8 participants showcasing their kayaking skills and passion. Their presence not only symbolizes local talent but also underscores the region’s dedication to adventure sports and how it influences the sport’s growth. The addition of international kayakers adds an extra layer of excitement and competition to the festival.
For those with a penchant for adventure and a love of speed, the festival offers two categories: the Down River Sprint and the Canoe Slalom Cross. As the kayakers take to the Umtrew River’s raging waters, they are poised to make a lasting impression with their expert navigation and swift rowing. The festival is not just about competition, but, a celebration of sportspersonship, shared enthusiasm for kayaking, and the power of nature.
Beyond the thrill of the event, the Megha Kayak Festival serves a broader purpose. It not only brings kayakers together but also shines a spotlight on adventure sports and eco-tourism in Meghalaya. This festival welcomes the world to experience the unparalleled beauty of the state, offering a unique opportunity to explore the lush landscapes and untouched natural wonders that Meghalaya has to offer.
13, Oct 2023
Amazon Music presents India Pod Day, hosted by IVM Podcasts and Westland Books
Amazon Music presents an extraordinary live podcast event ‘India Pod Day’ hosted by India’s premiere podcast network ‘IVM Podcasts’ and an award-winning Indian publisher ‘Westland Books’. The event will take place on October 17th, 2023 at St. Andrews Auditorium, Mumbai.
Highlighting the event’s star-studded lineup, ‘India Pod Day’ will feature renowned figures like Javed Akhtar, the prolific lyricist, poet, screenplay writer, and author joining live with Cyrus Broacha on his popular podcast, ‘Cyrus Says’ where he will talk about his recent released book ‘Talking Life’. Additionally, Hussain Zaidi will go live on the podcast ‘Has It Aged Well’. Hussian is a prominent journalist and author, who is known for his bestselling books like Dongri To Dubai, Mafia Queens Of Mumbai, and Black Friday.
India Pod Day is set to bring together IVM Podcasts hosts and renowned authors for a day of insightful panel discussions, interactive workshops, and a captivating live podcast experience. The event will be specially dedicated to and shine the spotlight on IVM Podcast hosts.
Designed to welcome both seasoned podcast aficionados and newcomers, India Pod Day will celebrate the dynamic medium of podcasting and its rapidly growing audience. It offers a unique opportunity to foster a community centred around smart listeners, and intelligent content and encourages the cross-pollination of diverse audiences.
Amit Doshi, Head, IVM Podcasts- Pratilipi said “India Pod Day is a milestone in the world of podcasting. We are thrilled to collaborate with Amazon Music to create an unforgettable experience for podcast enthusiasts. We cannot wait to see the connections and conversations that will emerge.”
Kavita Rajwade, Co-Founder, IVM Podcasts- Pratilipi commented “India Pod Day will see innovation and creativity converge to showcase the incredible potential of the podcast medium. We will see voices meet stories, and stories create connections.”
Gautam Padmanabhan, Business Head, Westland Books said, “We are delighted to be partnering with IVM and Amazon Music to foreground the conversation about new narratives and collaborative formats. Taking our books and writers to listeners and viewers as well as readers is an exciting prospect and an event like this allows us to explore the possibilities with a live audience.”
India Pod Day promises an unforgettable day of inspiration, knowledge, and entertainment.
13, Oct 2023
Disha Patani to Grace the Ramp as the Showstopper for KALKI Fashion at Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI 2023
October 2023: KALKI Fashion, the Indian couture brand celebrated for its exquisite bridal and occasion wear, announces the stunning Bollywood sensation Disha Patani as their showstopper for Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI 2023. Disha Patani, will walk the ramp, adding star power to KALKI’s presentation of their new collection, ‘ZAYRA.’
The showcase of the ‘ZAYRA’ collection will present the essence of various moods and moments, from the tranquil hues of ‘Country Air Blues’ to the resplendent allure of ‘Sun-kissed Golds.’ The collection also features the delicate allure of ‘Peach Dust’ and the timeless charm of ‘Warm Beige.’ This collection promises to redefine the essence of modern bridal fashion, offering a fusion of style and comfort that reflects the aspirations of today’s brides.
Nishit Gupta, Director of KALKI stated “We are elated to announce Disha Patani as the showstopper for KALKI Fashion at Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI. Disha epitomizes the grace, charm, and modernity that define KALKI’s creations. ‘ZAYRA,’ the collection she will be gracing, is an exquisite embodiment of opulence and comfort. It harmonizes traditional aesthetics with contemporary sensibilities. Disha’s presence on the ramp will undoubtedly elevate ‘ZAYRA’ to new heights, highlighting the collection’s exceptional craftsmanship, intricate detailing, and the perfect fusion of style and ease. Her role as our muse perfectly aligns with our vision to redefine bridal couture and special occasion wear.”
Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI 2023 is a prestigious platform that brings together the best in the fashion industry to celebrate creativity and innovation. KALKI’s participation promises to be a highlight of the event, offering a glimpse into the future of contemporary wedding fashion.
