Toyota Kirloskar Motor Scales Up Anganwadi Development Program to Benefit 400 New Centers in Ramanagara District

Ramanagara, 03 January 2025: Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to community development, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), in collaboration with the Government of Karnataka, is proud to announce the expansion of its flagship Toyota Anganwadi Development Program (TADP). Building on the success of the initial phase that developed 30 model Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), the program was scaled up to 150 centers in FY 2023-24. Recognizing its impact, the initiative is now being extended to an additional 400 AWCs in Ramanagara district from December 2024 to March 2026.

As part of this expanded initiative, TKM organized a one-day orientation and training session on 03 January 2025 for 400 Anganwadi Workers. Mr. Digvijay Bodke IAS, CEO of Zilla Panchayat Ramanagara and Mr. S. C. Padmaraju Deputy Director of the Women and Child Development Department, graced the occasion. The training aimed to empower teachers with modern pedagogical techniques and tools to foster holistic child development.

The Toyota Anganwadi Development Program enhances early childhood education and health through four key pillars. It upgrades Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) into safe, engaging spaces with a focus on aesthetics, safety, and functionality. Activity-Based Learning is promoted through innovative tools, locally sourced materials, and Good Habit Books to instill life skills. Teachers benefit from tailored training modules, a 40-hour English course, and a comprehensive manual for professional growth. Health and hygiene are prioritized with awareness programs for children, training on hygienic cooking for helpers, and kitchen gardens to provide fresh, nutritious food.

The TADP’s comprehensive “4 Pillar Approach” has brought measurable improvements in attendance, learning outcomes, and community involvement. By prioritizing infrastructure, learning innovations, teacher training, and health and hygiene, the program not only enhances the quality of education but also contributes to the well-being of children and their communities.

In a step toward modernizing early childhood education, TKM has also undertaken the digitalization of 180 AWCs under the TADP project. This initiative ensures better accessibility to educational resources and facilitates innovative learning methods, further improving participation and engagement among children.

Present at the occasion, Mr. Digvijay Bodke IAS, CEO of Zilla Panchayat Ramanagara said, “We commend Toyota Kirloskar Motor for their unwavering commitment to the welfare of our communities through impactful initiatives like the Toyota Anganwadi Development Program. By focusing on holistic child development, this program not only enhances the quality of early education but also strengthens the capabilities of Anganwadi teachers and centres across the district. The collaboration between TKM, Zilla Panchayat, Women and Child Development Department of Government of Karnataka, and the community is a shining example of how public-private partnerships can drive meaningful change. We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to seeing its continued impact in transforming the lives of children and families in Ramanagara district.”

Sharing his thoughts, Mr. Sudeep S Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head State Affairs, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “We are proud to collaborate with the Government of Karnataka to expand the Toyota Anganwadi Development Program and bring impactful change to more children and communities. This partnership enables us to combine our resources and expertise to create sustainable solutions for early childhood education and holistic development. At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe that education is the foundation of a thriving community. By focusing on child-friendly infrastructure, innovative teaching methods, and teacher training, we are nurturing the next generation to achieve their full potential. We are committed to fostering community development, ensuring that every child has access to quality early education and a healthy environment. Together, we can build a brighter and more inclusive future.”

With this expansion, TKM reaffirms its commitment to sustainable community development and creating meaningful change in society. The success of the TADP continues to serve as a model for impactful CSR initiatives, underlining the company’s vision of contributing to a better society.

Dr Shravan Subramanyam Appointed to Lead Medical Technology Platform at Claypond Capital

Bengaluru, 3rd January 2025 – Claypond Capital, the family investment office of Dr. Ranjan Pai, announced that Dr Shravan Subramanyam, the former Managing Director of Wipro-GE Healthcare, will head & lead the strategy and execution of their medical technology platform. The platform will focus on medical equipment and digital solutions for the domestic and export market with an emphasis on localization and innovation.

Dr. Subramanyam is a physician from Madras Medical College with an MHA from Cornell University, with 20 years’ experience in life sciences & medical devices companies including Roche and Novartis, across geographies. He was previously the president of NATHEALTH (Healthcare Federation of India) and co-chair of Medical Technology for FICCI & CII.

“The next decade holds a lot of promise for medical innovation and integration of various technologies, particularly digital solutions. I look forward to working closely with med-tech companies on behalf of Claypond, to scale up their presence in South Asia and overseas”, said Dr. Subramanyam.

Dr. Ranjan Pai said, “Healthcare delivery is changing profoundly in the post-Covid world, and medical technology has a big role to play in making healthcare accessible and affordable. Innovation will require long term capital and collaboration between industry and academia. We believe the platform approach will address the opportunity for India to participate in the growth of the med-tech sector across regions”.

India’s medical devices market, valued at INR 1.2L Cr in FY24, is projected to grow at an 11% CAGR from FY24-32. 80% of products are imported, providing an opportunity for import substitution across segments. Increasing insurance penetration & disposable income, addition of new hospitals and labs especially in Tier 2/3+, rise in chronic diseases, and government incentives are expected to drive growth.

Lower the mercury, higher the chances of stroke

By-Dr. Vipul Gupta, Group Director and Head of Neurointervention at Paras Hospital, Gurugram

Every year it has been seen that the dipping temperatures are responsible for a rise in the number of cardiovascular problems, among which stroke is one of critical illnesses. This year, the temperatures have started to take sudden dip and is expected to be so throughout the new year period especially in the Northern part of the country.

Stroke, which can be because of blockage causing paralysis or burst of blood vessel leading to bleeding, is seen more commonly during the winters. This is an important problem, as stroke is recorded to be the third leading cause of death and disability and WHO estimates suggest that one in four people may suffer stroke over a lifetime.

It is particularly worrisome that many young patients with uncontrolled blood pressure have developed bleeding in the brain during this vulnerable period. Probably the sudden increase in blood pressure in cold weather has played a role in these particular patients.

Various studies conducted in Japan, Korea, USA and China also suggests that there are more chances of stroke during the winter months. Several studies suggest that during extreme cold conditions, the risk of getting a stroke attack increases by 80% particularly when temperature dips below 15 degrees Celsius. Last year a study of around 56000 stroke deaths (over a decade) in Sao Paulo, Brazil found that falling temperatures may increase the number of deaths from stroke, particularly among people over 65 years. Another German study published in the same year in the European Journal of Epidemiology discerned that for every 2.9-degree Celsius drop in temperature over 24 hours, strokes increased 11 percent, and at higher rates for those already at risk. In the year 2016, a study published in the Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases examined nearly 1.72 Lakh ischemic hospitalizations in the United States and found that most of them occurred in cold average temperatures and when temperatures fluctuated significantly. Taking care of this issue is very important because this may lead to more chances of this deadly disease.

Why is winters a potential season for the rising incidences of stroke?

One of the prime reasons can be attributed that during the cold seasons the blood vessels constrict, which leads to the increase in blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for stoke. Also, there are various changes in the chemical balance in our body during the winters that increases the chances of clotting. Probably the reason number of stroke cases go up by 11 per cent during winters.

Other factors include prevalence of unhealthy habits like too much eating and drinking combined with decrease in physical activity. And in countries like India, High pollution levels and depleting Air Quality Index (AQI) clubbed with winter smog also aggravates the condition.

Though anyone is susceptible to get a stroke, however, people with existing cardiac problem, high blood pressure problem, smokers, obese and elderly need to be watchful as with the weather getting cold, they are the ones more vulnerable to get a stroke. In fact, such patients have a higher risk of even dying from heart disease as well.

Reducing the risk of stroke in winters

In order to curb down the chances for stroke and other cardiovascular events, the most vulnerable groups need to take sensible precautions to ensure and minimize the after-effects of extreme cold weather. it is strongly recommended to regularly monitor your blood pressure during this changing weather, particularly those who are already hypertensive. And even with mild changes or rise in the blood pressure, one need to immediately consult the doctor who can prescribe an adjustment in the medications.

It is also advised to keep warm and avoid sudden exposure to severe cold temperatures as the risk of stroke remains for many days after the exposure. The elderly are advised to keep warm and if possible heat the home as well. It is advisable to keep oneself well hydrated and avoid sudden excessive exertion, excessive drinking or unhealthy eating.

Apeksha Niranjan to perform a Bharatnatyam Recital at Nritya Kadambini 2025

The Bharatnatyam virtuoso Apeksha Niranjan will perform a pulsating recital at Nritya Kadambini 2025 on January 4, 2025 at Akshaya Auditorium Chennai. Accompanied with a grand musical ensemble of great music maestros, her performance will narrate an enchanting abyss of emotions and expressions.

Ever since the Bharatnatyam ardent has garnered audience’s admiration, affection, and blessings with her dynamic presence on stage. Niranjan’s intricate techniques and graceful movements enliven the stage with an unforgettable majestic extravaganza that celebrates the essence of Indian classical dance.

Accompanied by Kalishwaran Pillai, Keerthana Krishnamurthy, Dakshinamurthy Pillai, and Vishwesh Swaminadhan, Apeksha’s emotive performance at Nritya Kadambini 2025 will serve an eloquent amalgamation that transcends language, race, and culture.

Altair India Collaborates with The Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research to Drive Innovation

CHENNAI, India, January 03, 2025 – Altair, a global leader in computational intelligence, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with The Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR) to foster innovation and collaboration in the automotive industry. The collaboration will focus on developing solutions that advance e-mobility, autonomous systems, and sustainable vehicles while reducing product development timelines and ensuring India progresses at the forefront of automotive technology.

“Our collaboration with CAAR and IIT Madras is poised to drive innovation in the automotive sector,” said Vishwanath Rao, country manager, Altair India. “This MoU underscores Altair’s commitment to delivering technologies that enable automotive sustainability, efficiency, and progress.”

“Our partnership with Altair marks a significant step in our mission to speed up the process of taking innovative concepts from academic research towards industry-ready technologies,” said Thiru Srinivasan, CEO, CAAR. “This partnership will also help further develop Altair’s software tools for use in the rapid development of high-value automotive products.”

CAAR was established under the guidance and support of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras. CAAR provides world-class technologies and facilities to the automotive industry, advises on policy, and develops human capital. With a focus on translational research, CAAR bridges the gap between academic innovation and industrial implementation.

IIT Kanpur Achieves Record-Breaking Milestone with 152 IPR Filings in 2024

Kanpur, 03 January, 2025: Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) continues to make a mark in research and innovation with its highest ever filing of 152 Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in 2024. This milestone of the highest number of IPRs filed in a single year sees the institute sustain the increasing momentum for the fourth consecutive year. With a total of 1200 IPRs filed to date, IITK has also maintained its exceptional licensing rate to industry partners with around 12.91% achieved in 2024.

 The 152 IPR filings include 124 patents, 10 design registrations, 2 copyrights, and 6 trademark applications. The institute also expanded its global presence by filing 7 US patents, 2 Chinese patents and 1 European patent.

 The IPR filings cover a wide range of domains in cutting-edge of technology, including medtech and nanotechnology. Some notable inventions include a transdermal patch for drug delivery, Kryptoceler for cryptographic acceleration, and a chop saw metal-cutting machine. Other remarkable patents include a hybrid-powered electric tower car and a contactless automated tool for measuring crack growth.

 In 2024, IIT Kanpur witnessed a significant rise in the number of IPRs granted, with a total of 217 previously filed IPRs being granted this year. Among these, notable patents include a smart electric meter, a portable medical suction device, a quadcopter drone with an out-of-plane folding mechanism, a broadband uniform-efficiency orbital angular momentum detector for quantum technologies, and a process for fabricating an ultra-thin polymer composite electrolyte. Additionally, the institute has licensed 7 technologies and launched two ground-breaking products: the “Air Sampling Device” and the “Metamaterial Cloaking System,” further reinforcing its commitment to translating research into tangible solutions.

 Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, said, “Achieving 152 IPR filings in 2024 and seeing a significant increase in granted patents affirms IIT Kanpur’s commitment to pioneering translational research to bridge the gap between research and real world applications. We are grateful to our researchers, government, other stakeholders, and the institute’s IPR Cell for their invaluable role in transferring technologies from academia to the industry. As we move into 2025, we are focused on enhancing our R&D capabilities across domains and strengthen industry-academia collaborations to create innovations that will have a lasting impact on society.”

 In addition to its remarkable achievements in IPR filings, the institute received the prestigious STEM Impact Awards 2024 for its impactful technology transfer activities. This marks the third time the institute has been recognized for the STEM Impact award, this year the award was given for the technology transfer of ‘Haptic Smart Watch for Blind & Visually Impaired,’ which has led to significant socio-economic impact.

 The commercialization of IIT Kanpur’s innovations also witnessed a two-fold increase in revenues from IP licensing. Further, the institute launched two pioneering technologies: an air sampling device, licensed to Airshed Planning Professionals Pvt. Ltd., and the ‘Analakshya’ metamaterial cloaking system, licensed to Meta Tattva Systems Pvt. Ltd. These highlight the institute’s support to make India self-reliant in defense technologies and environmental innovation.
IIT Kanpur continues to enrich the nation’s research and development ecosystem. Its achievements in 2024 reflect its dynamic and flourishing R&D environment that is poised to deliver more impactful innovations as India journeys towards technological excellence and self-reliance.

Ananya Panday Reflects on Her Journey and Teases Intriguing Roles in Upcoming Films on In The Ring with Filmfare

One of Hindi Cinema’s widely celebrated new-age actresses, Ananya Panday, who is riding high on an eventful year at the movies, recently appeared on the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare’s YouTube channel. Hosted by Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief, Filmfare, this engaging talk show offers fans an exclusive glimpse into the lives and careers of some of the most sought-after talents in the film and OTT industries, all set against the backdrop of a live audience that heightens the immersive experience.

She reacted to being featured on a ‘Fuljhadi’ packet and to the love she’s received for her standout performances in Kho Gaye Hum Kahan and CTRL, along with the exceptional series debut in Call Me Bae. 2024 undoubtedly belonged to Ananya Panday and she knows it. As she entered the Ring, Ananya reflected on her journey, opened about prioritizing her mental health, shared insights into her upcoming projects, got candid about ‘Red Flags’ in a relationship, and much more.

Talking about how she deals with trolling and anxiety, she said, “When things go well, the noise around you fades, but it’s on tough days, when even a whisper can echo loudly. I’ve learned that doubt often creeps in when you’re already vulnerable, but pushing through those moments—showing up despite the fear—is where real growth happens. You can’t control what people say, but you can control how you rise above it.”

Recalling how working on Gehraiyaan transformed her as an actress, Ananya shared, “Gehraiyaan was a transformative journey for me. Working alongside someone like Deepika Padukone, whom I deeply admire, was an opportunity for me to learn and grow. Besides that, Shakun Batra made me realise that directors can’t always hold your hand—you have to build your character, do your homework, and take ownership of your craft. That experience pushed me to step up, take ownership of my work, and believe in the power of learning from those you look up to.”

Sharing her opinion on ‘Red Flags’ in a relationship, she highlighted, “Pay attention to how someone treats you when others are watching—that shift in behaviour speaks volumes. True support isn’t selective, and if someone can’t celebrate your victories or stand by you consistently, it’s a clear sign they’re not fully in your corner.”

When asked about her dating preferences between an actor and someone outside the industry, Ananya added, “Being with another actor has its advantages—they understand the ups and downs, the constant travel, and the pressures of the job. But sometimes, being with someone outside of the industry is a breath of fresh air. They don’t know you for your fame or your work, just for who you truly are, and that can feel like a pure, fulfilling connection.”

She also teased her upcoming projects, revealing, “I’m excited about the variety of roles ahead. I’m stepping into unchartered territories—like playing a lawyer in a period drama, something I’ve never done before. After doing so many OTT films and portraying Gen Z characters, it feels refreshing to break away from that mould. I’m also diving into a hardcore romantic film, which is a completely different experience for me. It’s all about growth, challenging myself, and embracing different genres to see where they take me.”

Odisha Gears Up for Grand Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention

BHUBANESWAR, January 3: The Odisha Government is pulling out all stops to ensure the success of upcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, with various departments actively sharing preparations on social media platforms.

In a bid to leave a lasting impression on the international delegates attending this high-profile NRI event, the state government has made comprehensive arrangements. The Department of Industries has deployed 70 senior officers from Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) cadre to assist VVIP delegates including heads of the state and other key administrative and diplomatic officials. These officers will undergo a training session on handling foreign dignitaries from January 3 onwards, to be conducted by a team from the Ministry of External Affairs.

The convention will kick off on January 8 with the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. The next day, on January 9, the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will inaugurate the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. The convention will conclude on January 10 with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards ceremony, where the Hon’ble President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will grace the occasion with her presence and deliver the closing speech. The convention will welcome Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of Trinidad and Tobago, as the chief guest.

To ensure the event’s grandeur, the state government has allocated Rs 125 crore in the supplementary budget tabled in November 2024. This funding supports the series of events planned by the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority, and other state departments. These events include night flea market, tribal fair, food festival, Rajarani Music Festival, Mukteshwar Dance Festival, and Ekamra Mahotsav, all coinciding with the NRI Day celebrations.

Bhubaneswar has been transformed into a cultural showcase with traditional paintings and modern lighting, celebrating its arts and craftsmanship. A unique handloom walkathon will also feature during the event, where models will parade with traditional attire presenting the rich textile heritage of the state.

In preparation for the convention, the Department of Tourism hosted a site familiarization trip for delegates from Malaysia in collaboration with the Indian High Commision office in Malaysia.The Department has identified 31 touristic sites such as Ashokan Relic at Dhauli, Puri Jagannath Temple and Konark Temple to showcase senior diplomatic staff and foreign dignitaries the tourism potential of the state during the three-day event.

Surge in Registration

A total of 3,000 registrations by NRIs have been made till date on the official website of the event. Registration requests for this event have predominantly come from Indian residents of Southeast Asian countries, followed by those from Gulf countries and Europe, with participants from over 50 countries showing interest in this biennial event.

The NRIs registering are primarily from Kerala, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, with a significant number from Odisha itself.

This 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar aligns perfectly with the Government of India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Purvodaya Mission’, aiming to promote economic activities in India’s eastern regions and highlight their investment potential.

Odisha’s 482-km coastline facing Southeast Asia presents a significant opportunity. Under the leadership of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, this NRI convention is a golden opportunity for the Odisha government to attract large investments in sectors like tourism, port-based infrastructure, and others.

Vaidyaratnam to Collaborate with Johns Hopkins University

Jan 03, 2025  Thrissur, India

The Vaidyaratnam Group is poised for a research collaboration with Johns Hopkins University, USA, the First-of-its-kind in the history of Ayurveda. Vaidyaratnam and Johns Hopkins University will jointly conduct research in cardiovascular diseases.

“We are excited about the new developments. Both Vaidyaratnam and Johns Hopkins University take pride in a glorious tradition that dates back centuries. Our proposed collaboration with the world’s most renowned private research university will benefit the healthcare sector at large,” said Ashtavaidyan Dr. E.T. Neelakandhan Mooss, Managing Director of Vaidyaratnam Group.

Managing Director Ashtavaidyan Dr. E.T. Neelakandhan Mooss and Executive Director Ashtavaidyan Dr. E.T. Krishnan Mooss held discussions with university officials at the Baltimore campus. Dr. Venu Rajamony, Former Ambassador of India to the Netherlands, Dr. Reghu Natarajan, Ex-Director of Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET), and Dr. Shelby Kutty, Professor – Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, were also present.

Established in 1876, Johns Hopkins is America’s first research university, an institution that has revolutionized higher education in the U.S. and continues to bring knowledge and discoveries to the world.

Vaidyaratnam Group is at the forefront of validating the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda through scientific research, using tools like Artificial Intelligence. Vaidyaratnam medicines are available across the length and breadth of India through their network of more than 2000 dealerships. The products are exported to the GCC countries, South East Asian Countries, Europe, US and Australia as well.

Jamshedpur Students Launch Swachhta Samvaad: A Book on Cleanliness and Waste Management

Jan 03, 2025 Jamshedpur, India

Students from Jamshedpur schools have come together to launch a first-of-its-kind book – Swachhta Samvaad, focused on cleanliness, hygiene, and waste management. The initiative, led by TATA Steel UISL in partnership with Potli Productions aligns with the government’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan seeking to foster environmental consciousness among the city’s youth.

Over 3,000 students participated in the campaign, which began with a city-wide essay competition on cleanliness practices and challenges. Following this, the selected 43 students participated in a creative writing workshop, under the guidance of Deepali Raina, Founder of Potli Productions. The workshop, focused on storytelling and effective communication, helped students craft the narratives that are encapsulated in the Swachhta Samvaad.

The book features a wide range of topics covering various aspects of cleanliness and waste management. In the “Expressions” section, students write about reducing landfills, the philosophy of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” and innovative ways to turn waste into resources through bio-methanation. Creative contributions like poems and stories bring these themes to life, with pieces such as “Festivals and New Clothes,” which explores the concept of reuse, and “The Dustbin Diaries,” a narrative focused on waste segregation.

One of the highlights is the graphic novel Toxic Doom, which engages readers with environmental themes. The “Our City” section offers insights into Jamshedpur’s waste management landscape, interviews with local safai karmachari and outlines the roles of different stakeholders in keeping the city clean. Practical solutions and everyday habits for promoting cleanliness are also featured in the “Insights” section, followed by an interactive “Fun Time” section with fill-in-the-blank activities, riddles, and a game called “Choose the Right Dustbin.”

Krishna Kumar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, said, “This is first-of-its-kind student led book on cleanliness and such initiatives need to showcased and promoted at national level as well. I congratulate our young authors who have made our city proud. I also thank Potli Productions team for doing a phenomenal job.”

Reflecting on the project, Deepali Raina, Founder, Potli Productions said, “The active participation of students throughout this process has been inspiring. Creative expression through media has proven to be an effective tool in getting the youth involved in crucial social discussions. The energy and dedication of the students have made Swachhta Samvaad a true reflection of their aspirations for a cleaner city.”

Rabindra Kumar Singh, General Manager (Town O&EM), TATA Steel UISL shared, “Reaffirming our organisational commitment, this initiative has instilled in students a greater sense of responsibility towards maintaining cleanliness in their communities. The creativity and insights reflected in the book speak volumes about the commitment of Jamshedpur’s young citizens to a cleaner, greener future. We thank the team Potli Productions for this collaboration.”