Manipal Academy Hosts 5th National Conference on Bridging Academic and Corporate Volunteering for Social Change

Manipal, 18th September 2014: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) concluded successfully the 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change conducted at the Dr. TMA Pai Auditorium today. The event brought together over 600 participants, from more than 20 non-MAHE institutions including dynamic young leaders, change-makers, and passionate social advocates from across the country. The Conference was spearheaded by Chief guest of D Carthigueane, Regional Director Regional Directorate of NSS Bangalore, Mr Sankara Mahalingam, Global Head – CSR, Firstsourc, Mr Harish Deshishtha Kulkarni, Manager – CSR & Lead-Global, Employee Volunteer Program, Tata Communications,Capt. Shanthi S, Sr, Program Director, Infosys Foundation, Misha Bhatt, Senior Vice President, iVolunteer, Mr Satyam Gambhir, Cofounder Platform Commons, Mr Utkarsh Sinha, Managing Director, Bucolic Kailash, Mr Navaneeth Ganesh, Consultant, Ministry of Education, along with Dr H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, Manipal

Centered on the theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Academic & Corporate Volunteering to Synergize Social Change,” the conference emphasized the seamless transition of students’ volunteering efforts during their academic years into impactful corporate volunteering.

Chief guest D Carthigueane, Regional Director of Regional Directorate of NSS Bangalore, the 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change offered a vibrant platform for thought-provoking discussions, insightful presentations, and interactive sessions on youth engagement and social change. It provided participants with a valuable opportunity to share their experiences, ideas, and innovative solutions, focusing on how corporate volunteering can synergize social change.

Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor MAHE, Manipal, welcomed attendees and outlined the conference’s theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Academic & Corporate Volunteering to Synergize Social Change.” He emphasized the importance of transitioning students’ volunteering experiences into corporate settings, enhancing both professional growth and community contributions. The conference aims to explore the pivotal role of volunteering in academic and corporate environments, fostering sustained community engagement and maximizing the benefits for individuals, institutions, and society.

Speaking on the occasion, D. Carthigueane, Regional Director of NSS Bangalore, expressed gratitude for being invited to the conference and commended the collective effort to involve youth in societal change. He highlighted the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports’ launch of the Bharat portal, a platform providing diverse opportunities for young people in sectors like cyber security and healthcare, promoting experiential learning and voluntary service. He praised Manipal’s commitment to hosting the event under the NSS banner, aligning with the goal of student development through community service. The Swachhata Sava, coinciding with the Prime Minister’s birthday and ending on October 2nd, symbolizes youth empowerment and community involvement. He thanked MAHE for organizing the event, calling it a stepping stone toward a cleaner, empowered future.

Dr. H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, Manipal, presided over the event. Dr. Praveen Kumar, the organizing secretary of the conference, delivered a vote of thanks. The conference also witnessed the presence of key figures like Dr. Anup Naha, Convenor, Dr. Abhishek Chaturvedi, Co-Convenor, and student secretaries MS Manaswini u and Mr. Aniket Poojary.

The event brought together diverse gathering of young minds with wealth of perspectives and ideas to the table, enriching the discussions around the theme of bridging academic and corporate volunteering. The involvement of students from various institutions highlighted the conference’s wide-reaching impact and underscored the collective commitment to fostering social change through collaborative efforts

Quick Heal Discovered A Fake Antivirus App with 1 Crore Downloads on Google Play Store

Pune, 18th September 2024: Quick Heal Technologies Limited, a leading global cybersecurity solutions provider, has discovered a fake antivirus app on the Google Play Store that has been downloaded over 1 crore times. The app, named “AntiVirus – Virus Cleaner”, masquerades as a legitimate antivirus solution but lacks any real security functionality.

According to Quick Heal’s analysis, the main purpose of this app is to show advertisements and increase download counts, rather than provide actual security benefits. The app mimics the functionalities of a real antivirus app, with features like “Scan Device and Application,” but it does not possess any real scanning capabilities except for a predefined list of apps marked as malicious or clean. This list appears to be static and has not been updated during Quick Heal’s analysis.

Upon installation, the app shows a different icon than the one displayed on the Google Play Store, and its welcome screen displays advertisements. The app also requests various permissions and shows a fake virus detection alert to the user, eventually leading to more advertisements. Interestingly, the app detects almost every application as a “risky application,” which is likely a tactic to make it seem like a legitimate antivirus app.

A closer look at the app’s package files reveals suspicious JSON files in the “assets” subfolder, including `blackListActivities`, `permissions`, `whiteList`, and `whiteListReview`. These files contain a whitelist of popular apps, such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Skype, as well as the app’s own package name, which is added to the whitelist to remain undetected. The app also uses wildcards in its whitelist, with entries such as “com.android.*”, which allows malicious apps with similar package names to bypass detection.

Quick Heal Total Security for Mobile successfully detects this application as “Android.Blacklister (PUP)” with the package name “com.coopresapps.free.antivirus” and MD5 hash “cb2ebff07b16fffc6c3df0251247fe1d”.

Commenting on the development, Vishal Salvi, Chief Executive Officer at Quick Heal Technologies Limited, said, “This fake antivirus app is a classic example of how malware authors can entice users into downloading junk apps that create a false sense of security. We urge users to be cautious when downloading free security apps, as they may be deceptive and potentially harmful. Instead, users should opt for trusted brands like Quick Heal that provide guaranteed security for their devices. Remember, anything that comes free might come across as a temptation to install, but it can also be fake.”

To stay safe from fake mobile apps, Quick Heal recommends that users check an app’s description before downloading it, verify the app developer’s name and website, and read reviews and ratings carefully. Users should also avoid downloading apps from third-party app stores and use a reliable mobile antivirus solution, such as Quick Heal Total Security, to prevent fake and malicious apps from getting installed on their phones.

Avant & Zenith 2024 – Celebrating Future Design Innovators

Manipal, 17th September 2024: The Student Council of the Manipal School of Architecture and Planning (MSAP) is excited to invite the public to Avant & Zenith 2024, a premier showcase of innovation and design. This captivating event will take place on September 20, 2024, at the Dr. TMA Pai Auditorium, 3rd floor, KMC Manipal, featuring the final year Fashion Design students’, fashion garment design collections, from the Department of Design, MSAP. Avant, the main event attraction, displays the culmination of rigorous education and creative exploration by our students, offering a glimpse into the future of fashion design.

The event will commence at 5:30 PM on the 2nd and 3rd floors of Dr. TMA Pai Auditorium and will host distinguished guests, including Ms. Shefalee Vasudev, a noted journalist and Editor-in-Chief of ‘The Voice of Fashion” and Dr. Geetha Maiya, Director of Student Affairs at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).

Concurrently, an Open House will be held at the Marena Sports Complex, MAHE, Manipal starting at 11 AM, featuring a wide range of projects from various streams within MSAP. This exhibition, inaugurated by Commander (Dr) Anil Rana, Director of Manipal Institute of Technology, Dr Harish Kumar S. Director – Corporate Relations, MAHE, and other dignitaries, will extend until 7 PM on September 21, 2024.

Avant & Zenith 2024 aims to educate and inspire attendees by demonstrating how theoretical knowledge is applied in practical, innovative ways within the realms of architecture and design. This event will not only showcase student talents but also will serve as an inspiration for potential students and design enthusiasts, illuminating the vibrant career paths and creative endeavours that lie ahead in these dynamic fields. We encourage everyone to join us for this celebration of creativity and innovation.

Godrej & Boyce’s Security Solutions Division Gains Momentum by Securing Humayun’s Tomb

New Delhi, 18th September, 2024: The Security Solutions business of Godrej & Boyce, part of the Godrej Enterprises Group, has successfully secured a series of high-value contracts, worth more than INR 35 crores, across nation’s prestigious institutions, vital infrastructural projects, historic monuments and government premises, reinforcing company’s position as India’s foremost provider of comprehensive security solutions to critical national premises. Notable projects include the implementation of an Integrated Outsourced Workforce Management System (IOWMS) at BPCL’s locations across India and the deployment of electronic security solutions at Humayun’s Tomb, CM House in Naya Raipur, IIM Jammu, and Adani Airports in Ahmedabad, Lucknow, and Trivandrum.

Comenting on this milestone, Mr.Pushkar Gokhale EVP & Business Head of Security Solutions business of Godrej & Boyce said, “Premises Security has been one of our key focus areas. Though the market is highly fragmented, we see significant growth potential, with an estimated addressable market of around INR 2500 crore. Presently, this segment accounts for upto 18% of our total revenue. Leveraging our expertise in providing these solutions and aligning with India’s vision to bolster the National security infrastructure, we are launching several new-age solutions and actively educating our clients about the efficacy of these solutions in terms of safeguarding their premises. Our strategic approach, driven by innovation and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs, enables us to provide tailored solutions based on their unique requirements. Recognizing the significant shift in consumer behaviour observed in recent times, our business division is proactively adapting a strategy to provide a comprehensive omni-channel experience to our customers. This entails expanding our presence across diverse online and offline channels to enhance accessibility and customer engagement.”

During FY 24, Godrej & Boyce’s Security Solutions business has generated revenue worth INR 100 crores through premises security solutions category. Within the realm of Premises and Electronic Security Solutions, Godrej has played a pivotal role by introducing innovative products such as, Flap Barriers, Turnstiles, Gscan pole, Bollards, Number Plate Recognition cameras, Explosive Vapor Detector, and additional offerings. In addition to this, the brand also offers a comprehensive lineup of cutting-edge scanning, screening, and access control solutions, ensuring that no potential threats can breach the premises. Covering everything from baggage scanners, vehicle management systems, as well as facial and full-body scans, the series includes touchless scanners and metal detectors, addressing all conceivable entry points with advanced technology.

With an extensive portfolio of cutting-edge products and solutions, the Security Solutions business continues to set the benchmark for excellence across diverse industries including Banking & Financial Services, Retail, Manufacturing, Hospitality, and IT. These initiatives highlight the company’s capability to deliver customized, state-of-the-art security solutions that address the unique requirements of various premises. The company’s strategic investments in technology and innovation underscore its commitment to driving positive change and safeguarding the future with noteworthy offering They has certainly made a mark with their visitor management systems. Installing such solutions at iconic heritage sites like the Taj Mahal and Aga Khan Museum not only has enhanced security but also helped in managing visitor flow more effectively. As India’s leading manufacturer of pedestrians’ access control solutions, Godrej Security Solutions has forged strategic partnerships with critical government projects such as Central Vista, SDSC SHAR, NPCIL, DRDO, ISRO and Parliament, which further solidifies its position as the preferred choice in the premises security segment.

VAIR Community Unveils 10 Initiatives to Help MBA Aspirants Ace IIMs and Top B-Schools

New Delhi, 18th September 2024 –Vair Community, one of India’s leading communities for the preparation of CAT and OMETs for IIMs and top B-schools, recently announced the launch of 10 groundbreaking initiatives during REBOOT 2024. The premier institute has decided to revamp the preparation landscape for CAT and OMET aspirants through these initiatives, which are aimed at securing admissions to top B-schools such as IIMs, FMS, XLRI, TISS, NMIMS, SYMBIOSIS, SRCC, IIFT, and more.

REBOOT 2024 was a successful event where the VAIR Community introduced 10 initiatives that are designed to help students crack the IIMs, FMS, XLRI, TISS, NMIMS, SYMBIOSIS, SRCC, IIFT, and more in 1- attempt. The initiatives claim to have an exceptional return on investment (ROI), as they go beyond conventional study material to include knowledge of tools and strategies, which will prove to be effective in the future.

The exclusive IIM Selection Secrets & TISS Selection Secrets Book is a highly noteworthy and promising launch that offers 10+ years of Mayur sir experience in mentoring students for acing India’s most challenging exams. In order to guarantee that students are well-prepared to succeed on their first attempt, the initiatives also include enhanced training sessions that concentrate on examiner psychology under the Intensified Training initiatives.

Another noteworthy initiative is the Empower and Support Program. The initiative recognizes the importance of peer mentorship in preparation. Combined with India’s first AI-driven mock test platform, the initiative by the VAIR Community serves as a benchmark of excellence in getting the proven and personalised response for test. To further support students, the Alumni Legacy Network initiatives connect future leaders with alumni mentors who guide them into leadership roles, contributing to India’s vision as a global superpower. The initiative also introduces the Level Up System, a unique framework that helps students set, track, and achieve their goals across entrance exams, applications, and selection rounds.

The VAIR Annual Retreat, an event that celebrates student selections and aims to foster a feeling of community, and the gamified platform initiatives are the other revolutionary initiatives of the VAIR community. A comprehensive pathway called the 1-Attempt Selection Path impeccably integrates learning with implementation for students to achieve success in a single attempt.

On the occasion, Mayur Anup Chand Soni, Founder of VAIR Community, said that, “ We are proud to introduce our new initiatives, which aim to ensure that students are able to clear their entrance in the first attempt itself. At VAIR, we prioritize adding value to our students’ lives. As we strive to provide them with the best possible support, we have integrated our new initiatives with AI while focusing on the development of psychological skills like leadership and communication. We have launched a new, user-friendly website to enhance student learning and engagement. Featuring various mediums of learning like podcasts and domain expertise initiatives, VAIR Community will be providing specialized guidance and support to each student. Thus, ours is not merely a coaching initiative but a revolutionary community to empower students at every step of their preparation.”

A quick look at Vair’s groundbreaking initiatives for the students

● IIM Selection Secrets & TISS Selection Secrets Book for insider tips for passing the hardest tests.

● New intensified training based on examiner psychology to ensure first-attempt success.

● Empower and Support Programme with peer group mentorship and training

● India’s first mock AI platform for unparalleled preparation

● Alumni Legacy Network to connect future leaders with alumni for guidance

● Unique Level Up System to set, track, and achieve goals

● VAIR Annual Retreat to celebrate selections and foster a community among successful candidates.

● Gamified Platform to reward class attendance, assignment submissions, and quiz participation.

● 1-Attempt Selection Path

● Brand new website launch that is more user-friendly

● Podcasts that feature experiences and tips from experts and successful alumni.

● Domain expertise for easy access to industry experts for specialized guidance and support

DialT2F Launches All-Inclusive Helpline for business support, taxation, registration, and compliance

Hyderabad, 18th September 2024: DialT2F (formerly known as Tax2Free) is excited to announce the launch of its helpline a move that will offer support to clients through every stage of their business cycle from business formation to winding up and everything in between. The services offered on the platform are free *except for the nominal mandatory government charges as applicable from time to time.

The helpline is aimed at providing faster resolution of customer enquiries and reduce turnaround time. As per a customer survey conducted by T2F revealed that customers were more comfortable having a human interface which was the rationale behind launching the dedicated help .

A Commitment to Innovation and Excellence

“DialT2F’s service offering is a testament to our dedication to delivering innovative solutions for our clients,” said the spokesperson from DialT2F. “Our goal is to be the go-to partner for all business needs, offering reliable, efficient, and comprehensive support that empowers businesses to thrive and individuals to be worry free over their taxation issues.”

This service offering, is designed to meet every need of individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses under one roof. With this expansion, DialT2F reinforces its commitment to excellence in all aspects of business support services to assist clients.

A New Era of Comprehensive Solutions

This initiative marks a significant milestone in DialT2F’s mission to simplify the regulatory landscape and empower businesses with service support.

TallyPrime 5.0 Takes the Spotlight in New Digital Film Series Highlighting Connected Services and Compliance Simplicity

Mumbai, 18th September 2024: Tally Solutions is excited to unveil its latest campaign for TallyPrime 5.0, featuring a series of dynamic digital films that bring to life the simplicity of managing business compliance. The “Easy as 1-2-3” campaign is designed to capture the essence of TallyPrime 5.0’s simplified approach to compliance management through visually engaging content. The 360-degree campaign is a combination of digital, social media, events, BTL activities, and strategic partnerships, and spans across all major new media channels including YouTube, Google Network, Bing, and Meta, along with targeting 200+ cities in India, with special emphasis on 24 primary locations.

The centerpiece of the campaign ideated by Mumbai-based agency Bombay Locale, and the team at Tally is an innovative series of digital films that showcases relatable scenarios where Tally Prime’s features save time and reduce usage complexity. The campaign vividly highlights the simplicity and ease of using TallyPrime 5.0 for managing business compliance. Each film captures attention with dramatic visuals, using interesting sports situations juxtaposed with real life business management experiences of how difficult and complex it can become for an entrepreneur to run their business operations. This creative imagery symbolizes the usual complexities of compliance tasks and highlights how TallyPrime 5.0 effortlessly transforms these challenges into a smooth, seamless experience.

Jayati Singh, Chief Marketing Officer at Tally Solutions, sharing views on the campaign, said, “Our new digital films candidly illustrate how the efficiency and reliability of TallyPrime 5.0 simplifies day to day business and compliance management, by transforming complex processes into something as intuitive as 1-2-3. This campaign reinforces the product’s value proposition and highlights its ability to make GST compliance a hassle-free experience for customers. With this campaign, we aim to reach and engage a wide audience and are optimistic about achieving 200+ million impressions, 2 million clicks, and connecting with over 12 million people”.

Osho Sidhant, Founder, Bombay Locale said, “Through this campaign, we wanted to showcase how the latest update of TallyPrime has simplified daunting and tedious tasks of GST filing, reconciling books, detecting errors, and managing Input Tax Credit (ITC) — which once took hours — and can now be completed in minutes. We talked to business owners and tax professionals to understand scenarios where TallyPrime’s features save time and reduce complexity in managing their businesses. We nailed down the feeling of “ease” that the update has brought for business owners and tax professionals. The ‘Easy as 123’ concept perfectly captures how TallyPrime empowers businesses to handle complex compliance tasks just by clicking a few buttons and letting Tally take care of the rest.”

TallyPrime 5.0 will provide entrepreneurs with complete transparency and knowledge about their cashflow, their Input Tax Credit (ITC) at risk, help reconcile their books of accounts ensuring they remain hassle-free and compliant at all times. This campaign’s creative approach not only highlights the product’s features but also connects with audiences on an emotional level, making the complexities of compliance more relatable and easier to understand.

A47.in Teams Up with Tinkle Comics for a special Merch Drop Featuring Shambhu, Suppandi and Tantri the Mantri

National, September 18th 2024 – A47.in, the brand that celebrates India’s coolest stories, is excited to announce a special collaboration with Tinkle Comics, launching an exclusive collection on September 17th, in honor of Uncle Pai’s birthday, the visionary founder of Tinkle Comics. This limited-edition drop brings Shambhu, Suppandi, and Tantri the Mantri to life with unique & exclusive designs across oversized t-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts.

Blending the nostalgia of Tinkle Comics with A47’s mission to celebrate India’s rich cultural legacy, the collection is designed by A47’s in-house creative team. Fans can now wear the beloved characters with pride, adding a piece of comic history to their wardrobe.

Each design is sure to evoke a sense of childhood joy while offering a contemporary, stylish appeal for today’s generation, in fashion-forward designs that reflect Tinkle’s charm and wit. This collaboration also marks a fresh and modern approach to Tinkle’s legacy, blending nostalgia with contemporary style.

“We’re so happy to partner with Tinkle Comics for this special launch. It’s a tribute not just to the characters we grew up with, but also to the legacy of Uncle Pai, who gave us these tales. At A47, we stand for celebrating India’s incredible stories, from ISRO to the Armed Forces, and with Tinkle, we continue this mission by honoring a brand that has entertained and inspired generations. It’s more than just merch, it’s a celebration of memories and stories that shaped us,” said Bhavik Vora, Founder & CEO at A47.

Adds Preeti Vyas, President and CEO, Amar Chitra Katha Pvt. Ltd, “We are thrilled to bring to consumers the magic of Tinkle through this collaboration with A47. Tinkle characters have always been more than just comic figures—they are friends, mentors, and sources of endless laughter for readers across generations. Over the past few years, Tinkle has expanded its offering to its fans beyond just books, through various transmedia offerings including animation, gaming and apparel. We are very impressed with the work A47 has been doing in connecting India’s young consumers with products that symbolize post-independence pop-culture and India-pride and are thrilled that they have chosen to introduce Tinkle’s iconic characters through an exclusive apparel range. As part of the launch, Tinkle and A47 will also roll out special giveaways, influencer collaborations, and contests, encouraging fans to share their Tinkle-inspired looks.”

With Tinkle continuing to be a favorite among readers across generations, this collection taps into the brand’s lasting popularity. As part of the launch, Tinkle and A47 will also roll out special giveaways, influencer collaborations, and contests, encouraging fans to share their Tinkle-inspired looks.

Radhikka Madan gets candid about relationships and red flags on In The Ring with Filmfare

Radhikka Madan, celebrated for her standout performances in Pataakha, Angrezi Medium, and Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota, takes the spotlight in the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare’s YouTube channel. Hosted by Filmfare’s Editor-in-Chief, Jitesh Pillai, this engaging talk show gives 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 makes the experience even more the immersive.

In this candid conversation, Radhikka reflects on her journey, which began at the age of 18 when she was spotted on Facebook for an audition. From her early television days to carving a niche in films, she has consistently pushed boundaries. She also shares her experience as India’s youngest jury member for the Emmy Awards and how recognition from prestigious platforms has shaped her outlook on acting and the industry. Radhikka further discusses the challenges of being typecast, her passion for versatility, and the grounding influence of her family. She also shares her views on relationships, her definition of red flags, and the importance of balancing her personal and professional life.

Radhikka recalls the early challenges she encountered, stating, “At the start of my career. I was shooting nonstop for 24 to 68 hours in a city I had never been to. It was tough, but it taught me perseverance and patience. I always say, there is no better school than television.”

Speaking on her profound connection with acting, Radhikka reveals, “When I first stood in front of the camera, I had nothing to fall back on, but it made me feel safe and calm and I kept chasing that feeling. The camera makes me feel at home.”

Reflecting on the industry’s tendency to typecast, she shares, “When you play a particular character, it tends to stick with you. But I became an actor to live different lives, and I try to break that mould.”

Radhikka also touches on mental health, explaining the impact of taking on emotionally intense roles like Sanaa and Sajni: “I went through a dark phase after playing back-to-back intense roles. I had to seek help, recognizing that the dark thoughts weren’t mine. Accepting that I needed help was a big step, and things like exercise, meditation, and spirituality helped, but it’s also about having pillars—work, family, spirituality—because if one falls, the others support you.”

Radhikka delves into her inspiration behind work, sharing, “As I was growing up, I had icons like Kareena, Rani, Kajol, and Vidya ma’am. Each of them had their own craft, and their own flavours, and that made me realize the only thing I can offer is my uniqueness. My heart wasn’t into changing myself, and I believe every person is like a snowflake under a microscope—unique in their own way. We need to show diverse images so no one from a small town feels insecure.”

Radhikka further discusses her passion for versatility and breaking free from typecasting, shedding light on how she selects her roles, “I choose roles that scare me because it pushes me to prove my versatility, both to others and to myself. I love taking risks, and I love my craft too much to play it safe. I also ask myself if I’ve lived this life before. If not, I take it on.”

Radhikka is equally candid about her views on relationships and red flags, stating, “If it’s making me anxious, then it’s not the right relationship for me. I don’t believe in situationships or vagueness. I’m old-school when it comes to love. I believe in love—coming home to someone who truly matters after a long day.”