Amethyst Hosts ‘Photography Strictly Prohibited’ Exhibition, Featuring the Legacy of Navroze Contractor

The exhibition is curated from over 20,000 photographs shot in about 6 decades. The images aim to share Navroze Contractor’s unseen work with the public. More importantly hopes to present a glimpse of him from the way he looked at the world, and through that, a chance to discover the person that Navroze Contractor was.

‘Photography Strictly Prohibited’ is a retrospective curated by his friends to pay a tribute to Navroze Contractor, his life and his work.

For Navroze, photography, like many of his other passions, was a tool to enrich his life and the way he looked at the world. Along with the photo-exhibition, which was curated from 20,000 photographs, there is a book being published, also called ‘Photography Strictly Prohibited’, which is a collection of some of his photographs, interviews about his work, excerpts from his own writings and a few articles by people who knew him or worked with him for a long time. It is an attempt to present a person who was much more than the sum of his photographs, writings, cinematography, or his absolute love for riding motorcycles.

The exhibition is curated by Anuj Ambala, Himanshu Panchal and Sanjiv Shah and the book has been published by Navjivan Trust.

India’s Tech Talent Gets a Boost with Emeritus’ New Deep Tech Certification Programmes

Mumbai, January 21, 2025: As India emerges as a global leader in adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technological advancements, a staggering 70% of professionals are actively seeking to upskill to stay relevant in this rapidly evolving landscape, as per a recent Global Labor Market Conference (GLMC) survey. Yet, the Indian market faces a 51% demand-supply gap in AI and ML talent, with only 416,000 professionals available to meet the current demand of 629,000 as per Nasscom’s State of Data Science & AI Skills in India 2023 report. In response to address this skills shortage through upskilling, Emeritus, a global leader in delivering accessible and affordable high-quality education, has announced the launch of three advanced technical certificate programmes in collaboration with IITM Pravartak(a technological hub of IIT Madras), E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati, and IBM, aimed at empowering professionals to lead in these high-growth areas.

The Advanced Certification Programme in Data Science and Business Analytics with Generative AI by E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati, and IBM offers a Generative AI-infused curriculum featuring the latest tools like ChatGPT-4 to address real-world business challenges. With specialisations in Business Analytics or Generative AI for Data Science, this programme equips participants to make data-backed decisions, unlock leadership opportunities, and thrive on a global stage. Ideal for data analysts, tech professionals, and business leaders, it provides hands-on training with in-demand tools like Python and Power BI, while enabling learners to build GitHub portfolios and apply data science techniques on Kaggle, ensuring they are industry-ready to solve complex problems.

The Advanced Certificate Programme in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning by IITM Pravartak(technological hub of IIT Madras), funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, empowers professionals to leverage AI and ML technologies to drive impactful business solutions. Spanning 11 months, the programme focuses on deep mathematical foundations, practical applications of Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), and real-world use cases to tackle industry challenges. Participants will gain hands-on experience with 35+ tools and libraries, including TensorFlow and PyTorch, through recorded sessions and masterclasses with IIT Madras faculty, optional campus immersion at IIT Madras Research Park, industry-led projects, and IBM certifications. The programme enables learners to build GitHub and Kaggle portfolios, positioning them as sought-after talent in the competitive AI/ML landscape. Ideal for data scientists, software engineers, business analysts, product managers, and executives, this programme equips learners to lead AI/ML initiatives helping them stay ahead of emerging technology trends.

The Advanced Certification Programme in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AIML) by E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati, and IBM, redefines professional upskilling in deep tech. This premier programme delivers hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools and technologies, including Generative AI, NLP, IoT, cybersecurity, and Computer Vision, ensuring participants are equipped to tackle the future of AI. With masterclasses from IIT faculty and industry experts, three coveted IBM certifications, and an optional campus immersion at IIT Guwahati, the certification empowers professionals to transition into high-impact AI roles. Designed to address India’s AI talent gap, this programme is a game-changer for data scientists, software engineers, business analysts, and leaders, enabling them to drive innovation and lead transformative AI initiatives with confidence. This programme offers dual specialisations, allowing learners to choose from Cybersecurity, No-Code, Cloud Computing, IoT, and Explainable AI (XAI).

Avnish Singhal, Executive Vice President, Head India & APAC, Emeritus, said, “As technology continues to advance, the key to thriving lies in the ability to adapt and lead. Our collaboration with E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati, IITM Pravartak and IBM brings forward a new era of advanced technical programmes that focus on deep, specialized expertise in AI, machine learning, and other transformative technologies. These programmes are designed not only to equip professionals with cutting-edge skills but to empower them to lead the charge in the deep tech revolution. We’re excited to offer a pathway that enables professionals to stay ahead, innovate, and redefine industries.”

“The rapid pace of technological advancements is outpacing the skills available in the workforce,” said Ankit Kumar, Regional Director – Product, Emeritus. “Through our partnership with IITM Pravartak, E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati, and IBM, Emeritus is committed to closing this critical skills gap by offering comprehensive, advanced certifications in AI and deep tech fields. Our programmes are crafted to ensure that professionals not only master emerging technologies but become leaders capable of steering industry transformation and driving business success.”

As India solidifies its position as a global technology hub, bridging the skills gap has become essential to sustain the momentum of innovation and growth. In line with this vision, Emeritus has launched these advanced technical certifications empowering India’s workforce with practical, future-ready skills.

Union Budget 2025 Expectations From The Industry Stalwarts

Mr Rishi Jain, Managing Director, Jain Group

“We look forward to Union Budget 2025 bringing transformative reforms for the real estate and hospitality sectors. Granting ‘Industry Status’ to real estate is crucial for improving access to affordable financing and timely project execution. Lowering GST rates on under-construction properties, rationalizing input tax credits, and fostering Special Economic Zones for hospitality can drive growth and job creation.

Targeted interventions like interest rate reductions, technology subsidies, and simplified regulatory frameworks will boost competitiveness and attract investments. This budget has the potential to unlock these sectors’ true potential and further their contribution to India’s economic growth.”

Mr. Arya Sumant, Managing Director, Eden Realty Group

“As the Union Budget 2025 approaches, we are hopeful for reforms that can drive growth and enhance affordability in the real estate sector. Increasing the home loan interest tax deduction limit to ₹5 lakh and revising the affordable housing price cap to ₹80 lakh would make homeownership more accessible, particularly in metros like Kolkata.

Reviving the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) is vital to supporting first-time homebuyers and boosting residential demand. Additionally, granting ‘Industry Status’ to real estate would open up structured financing avenues, reducing costs and attracting investments.

We also urge the government to introduce tax incentives for sustainable development to encourage green building practices, aligning with global trends and investor interests. These measures would ensure the sector remains a key driver of India’s economic progress”.

Mr Sanjay Jain, Managing Director, Siddha

As we approach the Union Budget 2025, the real estate sector is indeed at a pivotal juncture, and the expectations for reforms to drive growth, transparency, and affordability are high.

The transformative measures expected in the Union Budget 2025 could drive significant growth in the real estate sector, particularly in terms of affordability, sustainability, and investment opportunities. By promoting green construction, providing more tax relief for homebuyers, incentivizing infrastructure development, and streamlining regulations, the government can boost both demand and supply in the housing sector, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable real estate market.

These reforms would not only cater to the evolving needs of the urban population but also ensure long-term stability and growth in the sector. The expected focus on transparency, fiscal incentives, and infrastructure development can help create a more conducive environment for real estate investors, developers, and end-users alike.

Prof. Manoshi Roychowdhury, Co-Chairperson, Techno India Group

“The Union Budget 2025 must prioritize strategic investments in the education sector to unlock India’s full potential. Increased funding for higher education, integration of advanced technology, and a stronger emphasis on skill development and vocational training are essential. Providing better opportunities for quality education, especially in underserved regions, through enhanced digital infrastructure and targeted financial aid is crucial. The government should also focus on the continuous professional development of educators and promote research and innovation in academia, ensuring India remains competitive in an ever-evolving global landscape. Recognizing the significance of collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, and non-governmental organizations is key to closing the skill gap. These stakeholders must work together to ensure the robust implementation of these initiatives, turning them into tangible outcomes that benefit the entire nation. Additionally, supporting performing arts, sports, art and design, as well as increasing investments in medical studies, will further enrich India’s cultural and healthcare landscape, providing well-rounded opportunities for growth and development.”

Ms Priyanka Bardia, Director, Aakash Aath & Platform 8

In the Union Budget 2025 we hope the Government to introduce Policies or Reforms which will be more Entertainment Industry friendly and will contribute in large for its rapid and wide growth. We expect the Government to take into consideration the Taxation Benefits for the broadcasters. This will encourage them to invest more in quality content and expand their reach. The process of Digitisation has been a landmark in the growth of the Media and Entertainment Industry. In the era of smartphones and OTT, Digital India demands more innovative and technically advanced initiatives to be implemented which can enhance the shape of the digital infrastructure.

Lastly, the Regulatory Frameworks from the I&B Ministry needs to be more simplified, but definitely specific and modern. This can contribute at large in creating more innovative and engaging content and serving the audience largely in a better and satisfying way.

Bank of Baroda Takes Bold Step for Women’s Empowerment with Launch of All-Women Branches in Odisha and Jharkhand

Bhubaneswar, 21st January 2025: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, today announced the launch of five all-women bank branches under the motto “By Women, For Women” in the states of Odisha & Jharkhand. These branches, staffed entirely by women employees, are designed to create a supportive and empowering environment for both the Bank’s women employees and women customers as well as general customers at large. The Bank is opening three such branches in Odisha and two in Jharkhand. Out of the 5 branches, three are urban branches and two are rural.

This initiative is a part of the Bank’s ongoing commitment to empower women, unleashing their true potential and promoting gender parity. By encouraging women employees to take the lead in managing the overall operations of these branches, it gives them greater opportunities for professional growth and to aspire for higher leadership roles in the Bank.

While the five all-women branches will welcome all customers, there will be a greater thrust towards servicing women customers and fulfilling their unique banking requirements. The branches will focus on empowering women customers through various tailor-made savings and loan schemes such as the bob Mahila Shakti Savings Account, bob Women Power Current Account, Baroda Mahila Swavalamban loan scheme for women entrepreneurs and the bob SB Self Help Group.

The branches will promote various government schemes that support entrepreneurship & social security. The five all-women branches will also actively promote financial literacy & education through regular events, thereby increasing financial inclusion.

Speaking on the initiative, Ms. Beena Vaheed, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “With the opening of five all-women branches in Odisha and Jharkhand, we are working towards building an environment, culture and ecosystem where women can flourish. Our all-women branches reflect Bank of Baroda’s deep commitment to empowering women – both as employees and customers. These branches provide our women employees with a platform to aspire, innovate and excel, while also prioritising and expanding women’s access to financial services. I am excited about the possibilities this will create in building a more inclusive and equitable future for all.”

Maanaviya Kalyana Trust Breaks Barriers with Free IVF Treatment for Marginalized Groups

Hyderabad, January 21, 2025……Maanaviya Kalyana Trust, the Hyderabad based non-profit organisation launched Anand Kutumb, a community senior living. Sharing details about it in a press note issued in the city today Padmaja Patil, Director of the Trust said it is a senior assisted living.

She also announced that Maanaviya Kalyana Trust will provide IVF facilities to the underprivileged free of cost. They are planning to start a Center in the Government Hospital for free. The first centre is coming up in collaboration with KIMS in Hubli from 25th February this year.

Anand Kutumb is not just a Senior Living community; it’s a home where our residents are cherished and respected said Mr L.S. Patil of the Trust

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a procedure that helps people with fertility issues have a baby.

In light of increasing instances of fertility problems, the trust is planning to provide costly treatment free of cost to poor patients.

Let us stand together to solve some of society’s challenges she said Maanaveeya Kalyana Trust (MKT) this weekend presented Bayan-e-Ghalib, a Cultural Tribute to the Legendary Mirza Ghālib

MKT was founded with a deep passion for giving back to society, and is dedicated to addressing critical social needs. The trust works in three main areas:

1. Senior Care: Offering a “family away from family” experience for senior citizens, fostering companionship and dignity.

2. Healthcare and Wellness: Promoting holistic health through Ayurveda, naturopathy, and spiritual wellness at Arujiva Retreats across India.

3. Affordable Infertility Treatment: Providing accessible IVF treatments to underserved families, with a free IVF centre opening at KIMS Hospital, Hubli, in February 2025.

Aandkutumb, the Senior Community Living, is committed to offering seniors a vibrant and supportive living environment. Aandkutumb, located in Gulbarga, provides a perfect home for seniors in their “second innings” of life.

SAI Global Debate 2025: SAI International School Welcomes 32 Schools and 300+ Debaters

National, 21st January’25: SAI International School, one of the country’s leading CBSE board schools hosted the 5th Edition of the SAI Global Debate recently, demonstrating its dedication to fostering critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills among students. This notable online debate competition attracted over 300 participants from 32 schools across the nation, with the presence of esteemed guests Ms. Rittika Chanda Parruck, MBE, Director of Education at the British Council in India, as the chief guest, and Mr. John Snell, Executive Head of Schools, England, as the guest of honour, further elevating the event’s intellectual significance.

The initiative, conceived by Founder, Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, aims to cultivate a generation of confident communicators and critically aware global citizens, equipped to contribute to a more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable future for all.

The debate showcased outstanding performances across various formats, including Turncoat, Extempore, and Conventional Debate. In the junior category, the preliminary round addressed the ethicality of governmental or corporate censorship of information on the internet to combat misinformation. Students adeptly navigated the tension between free speech and the necessity of controlling misinformation, presenting compelling arguments that engaged the jury’s attention. The final round focused on the topic “Virtual reality has had a tremendous impact on education methodologies,” prompting students to evaluate its transformative potential in learning while addressing challenges such as accessibility and dependency on technology.

The senior category tackled even more complex ethical issues. In their preliminary round, participants debated whether widespread digital surveillance by governments or corporations is ethically justifiable. The finals escalated the discussion with the topic “Do large tech companies hold too much power, posing ethical dilemmas for society?” Here, students critically examined monopolies, data privacy issues, and the ethical responsibilities of technology giants. The event’s structure fostered an environment of rigorous research, persuasive rebuttals, and intellectual excellence.

Overall, the 5th SAI Global Debate not only provided a platform for meaningful discourse but also underscored SAI International School’s pivotal role in nurturing future leaders and thinkers prepared to tackle contemporary global challenges.

Representing the capital, Bal Bharati Public School Dwarka, New Delhi, demonstrated exceptional debating prowess alongside Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyasharam, K.M. Munshi Marg, Jaipur, and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyashram. Noteworthy institutions such as Blue Bells Model School, Buxi Jagabandhu English Medium School (both campuses), and the prestigious Choithram Schools from Indore and its North Campus enriched the event’s diversity. Further enhancing the assembly were DAV Public School, Unit-8, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar, DC Model Sr. Sec. School, KC Public School, and M.C. Kejriwal Vidyapeeth. Maria’s Public School and Miles Bronson Residential School collaborated with ODM International School, Angul, and ODM Sapphire Global School. The event also included Rajkumar College, Raipur, and Rajmata Krishna Kumari Girls’ Public School, Jodhpur. Additionally, Shiv Nadar School, Noida, Singapore International School, Mumbai, Sunbeam School Lahartara, The Sanskaar Valley School, and Welham Girls’ School, Dehradun, participated, showcasing a rich blend of academic excellence. The debate also had an international element with the participation of Starehe Boys’ Centre & School from Kenya, reinforcing the event’s global dimension.

In her address, Ms. Rittika Chanda Parruck, MBE, Director Education British Council, India, expressed her inspiration from witnessing young minds engage in meaningful discussions on themes that will influence modern society. She highlighted debates on topics such as digital surveillance, the influence of technology giants, and the boundaries of internet censorship, emphasizing the significance of responsible technology use. Moreover, she noted that discussions about how virtual reality is reshaping educational methodologies reflect students’ foresight. Ms. Parruck stated, “Such platforms not only sharpen critical thinking but also build the leaders of tomorrow who will guide us through complex ethical landscapes.” She praised the initiative led by SAI and wished the participants great success.

Mr. John Snell, in his capacity as guest of honor, expressed, “Debates of this caliber highlight the incredible potential of youth when provided with opportunities to explore complex global issues. As educators, our role is to cultivate critical thinking and guide students in understanding the interplay of ethics, innovation, and progress.”

Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson of SAI International Education Group, echoed these sentiments, expressing her inspiration by the vibrant assembly of youths grappling with global challenges through meaningful debates and innovative idea exchanges. She appreciated the active participation from numerous schools that contributed to making the global debate a resounding success. The event highlighted the dedication of students and educators alike in fostering critical discussions about pertinent issues, setting a strong foundation for future leaders.

“This platform goes beyond competition; it is a celebration of ideas, collaboration, and growth. It empowers young minds to engage in meaningful dialogue, explore diverse perspectives, and shape a more thoughtful and equitable future.”

reflected, Shri Nilakantha Panigrahi, Director of Academics & Senior Principal, SAI International School.

Shri Amitabh Agnihotri, Headmaster, SAI International Residential School (SIRS), lauded the initiative, saying, “Witnessing the brilliance of these young minds today fills me with optimism. The energy, eloquence, and depth of thought exhibited here assure us that the future is in capable hands. Such debates are not merely competitions but transformative experiences shaping tomorrow’s visionaries.”

Garuda Aerospace Takes Flight in Mining Sector, Announces Pan-India Deal Success

21st January 2025, Chennai – Garuda Aerospace, India’s leading drone manufacturer and drone-as-a-service (DAAS) provider, is soaring to new heights with significant wins in the mining sector. The company has recently secured contracts with several prominent mining corporations across India, including the Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC), Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI) in Jharkhand, Odisha Mining Corporation, and various private mining companies. Garuda Aerospace will provide advanced data analysis and improve mining efficiency by deploying cutting-edge drone technology.

Garuda Aerospace’s drones are revolutionising mining operations by providing encompass volumetric analysis of stockpiles, accurate 2D and 3D terrain mapping, and detailed project monitoring. This technology allows for precise measurement of extracted materials, efficient resource management, and enhanced safety by providing detailed aerial views of mining sites. These drone-based solutions offer significant advantages over traditional methods, providing faster data acquisition, improved accuracy, and reduced operational costs.

The mining sector is fundamental to India’s economic progress, supplying crucial raw materials across industries. Efficient and sustainable practices are essential for maximising resource use while minimising environmental impact. Garuda Aerospace’s drone technology empowers mining companies to optimise operations, enhance safety, and gain valuable site insights. This data, critical for mine planning and informed decision-making, enables process optimisation. Drones conduct vital safety inspections, accessing hazardous areas like high walls and pit bottoms to identify and mitigate potential risks, ensuring worker safety and contributing to a more efficient and responsible mining industry.

“This expansion into the mining sector marks a significant milestone for Garuda Aerospace,” said Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace. “We are IPO-ready and this momentum in the mining sector further strengthens our position. We are committed to revolutionising mining operations with our advanced drone technology, providing our partners with the data and insights they need to operate more efficiently and sustainably. This partnership is a testament to our vision of becoming a global leader in drone technology, and we are confident that our solutions will play a key role in the future of the mining industry. We aim to achieve a significant market share in the mining drone sector and contribute to the growth of the Indian economy. This is a crucial step towards our vision of making drones accessible and affordable for various industries.”

Garuda Aerospace is dedicated to delivering optimal drone solutions, collaborating closely with clients to understand their unique needs and develop tailored applications. The company’s experienced engineers and pilots provide comprehensive training and support, ensuring safe and effective drone operations. With a proven track record, including six DGCA Type Certifications, Garuda is leading the drone revolution across multiple sectors. Beyond mining, Garuda’s drones are deployed in agriculture for precision farming, infrastructure for critical asset inspection, disaster management for aerial surveys, and even defence applications, showcasing the versatility of their DGCA-approved technology. Garuda Aerospace is also actively involved in initiatives like the Namo Drone Didi program.