Manipal Hospital Successfully Hosts National Organ Donation Summit in Pune

Pune, 07th October 2024: The Organ Donation Summit, hosted by Manipal Organ Sharing & Transplant (MOST) in association with ZTCC Pune, ISCCM Pune and MOHAN Foundation, concluded on October 5, 2024, in Pune. The two-day event brought together leading national and international experts in organ donation and transplantation to discuss important topics such as “Donation after Circulatory Death” (DCD) and “Quality Assessment in Organ Donation,” which set new standards for organ donation procedures in India. Dr. (Col) Avnish Seth, VSM, Head of Manipal Organ Sharing & Transplant (MOST) served as the Organizing Chairperson.

National and international specialists presented their perspectives, with particular focus on the potential for Donation after Circulatory Death (DCD) to boost India’s donor pool. This summit was also the first time that Quality Assessment in organ donation and the need for Key Performance Indicators specific for India were discussed. The summit was also a final step in the creation of a consensus statement of National Consortium on Normothermic Regional Perfusion (NRP) for DCD. The event also investigated new technology and techniques for improving donation processes and outcomes.

While speaking at the summit, Dr. (Col) Avnish Seth, VSM, Head, Manipal Organ Sharing & Transplant (MOST) said, “In 2023 we crossed 1000 organ donors following brain death for the first time in India. In brain death the heart is still beating so that blood supply to organs continues. We are now moving towards establishing protocols for DCD. Here, since the heart has stopped, one must move quickly to save organs. One of the ways this can be done effectively is by re-establishing circulation for 2 to 4 hours by a process called Normothermic Regional Perfusion (NRP). Through Organ Donation Summit 2024, we have made significant progress towards developing a low-cost, hybrid, extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation system for NRP in India. This summit marks a critical turning point for organ donation in India, and the innovations and discussions we’ve seen here will help improve transplant outcomes and save more lives in the years to come.”

Dilip Jose, Managing Director and CEO, Manipal Hospitals, “At Manipal Hospitals, we believe that organ donation is a powerful way to give others a second chance at life. The MOST Summit represents our commitment to raising awareness and improving the systems that make this life-saving practice possible. Our goal is to ensure that every patient in need of a transplant has access to the care they deserve, and that organ donation becomes a more widely understood and accepted practice in India.”

Dr. Anil Kumar, Director, National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO), “Organ donation is one of the most powerful ways to give someone a new lease on life. Quality assessment at each step from early identification of potential donors to organ retrieval and transplantation is important for achieving excellence and promoting best practices in the field.’ With thousands of people in need of transplants, it’s important for people to understand the impact they can make by becoming organ donors after death.”

The highlight of the summit was the presentation of a low-cost hybrid Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) circuit for normothermic regional perfusion, a technology specifically designed to improve organ preservation in DCD scenarios. This innovation is poised to revolutionize the organ donation process by increasing the viability of organs for transplantation, thus saving more lives.

A significant part of the Organ Donation Summit 2024 focused on navigating the ethical and practical challenges surrounding the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment, a crucial aspect of DCD. The summit concluded with a strong call for deeper collaboration among healthcare professionals, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations to establish a sustainable organ donation framework so that more lives can be saved through timely transplants.

Mahadevi Birla Students Tackle Kolkata’s Litter Crisis with Smart Dustbin Solution

Kolkata, 7th October, 2014: In the bustling, vibrant streets of Kolkata, a group of young innovators from Mahadevi Birla Shishu Vihar has taken a bold step to combat one of the city’s most pressing challenges—littering and waste management. Inspired by their daily encounters with overflowing trash bins and unsightly litter, five students from the school have developed an innovative solution, aptly named “The Dustbin of Dreams,” to contribute to a cleaner, more beautiful Kolkata.

Kolkata, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and lively streets, faces a growing problem with waste disposal and littering. The issue has not only marred the city’s aesthetic appeal but has also contributed to environmental pollution. Determined to act, these young students – Arshi Drolia, Srithi Bhattacharya, Aradhana Ghosh, and Jagriti Jhunjhunwala came together to design an automatic dustbin that makes disposing of waste easier, more hygienic, and more effective.

Their innovative dustbin, equipped with advanced sensors, automatically detects when someone approaches and opens its lid, allowing users to dispose of their waste without needing to touch the bin. “The dustbin also features a built-in trash compacting system that reduces the volume of waste, preventing the bin from filling up too quickly and reducing the frequency of waste collection. To further encourage positive behaviour, the students incorporated a digital display screen that thanks users for properly disposing of their trash, promoting a sense of community responsibility in keeping the city clean,” one of the student inventors, Srithi Bhattacharya explained.

Speaking about their motivation behind the project, the students shared how personal the issue of littering had become for them. “Having grown up witnessing the detrimental effects of waste on our city’s environment, we felt a strong sense of responsibility to create change. This personal connection led us to design “The Dustbin of Dreams”—a symbol of our vision for a cleaner, greener Kolkata,” another inventor Aradhana Ghosh added.

“Our project was born from the love we have for our city,” another participating student inventor, Arshi Drolia stated. “We wanted to make something that not only helps reduce litter but also encourages people to take part in keeping Kolkata clean,” Jagriti Jhunjhunwala added.

The students’ innovative project has already garnered attention from both their school and the local community, inspiring others to think creatively about solving environmental issues. Their goal is to implement the dustbins in public spaces across the city, helping to address the problem of littering at its source while fostering a culture of cleanliness and civic pride.

As these young innovators continue to push forward with their project, they hope to collaborate with local authorities, businesses, and environmental organizations to bring their vision of a cleaner Kolkata to life.

How to Manage Diabetes Distress and Burnout Better

Living with diabetes can feel like juggling many things at once. It requires constant glucose monitoring, meal planning, and maintaining an exercise routine. One must also consider how daily activities may impact glucose levels and be prepared for sudden changes. Known as diabetes distress, this relentless cycle of responsibilities and worries affects about 33% of adults with Type 2 diabetes in India.

“Managing a chronic condition with care and caution, while navigating everyday life stressors, can be overwhelming. This may lead to mental fatigue and strain, increasing frustrations, isolation, and burnout. In turn, such feelings can make it difficult to manage diabetes. Engaging in physical activity, managing healthy diet keeping an eye on glucose levels with simple tools such as continuous glucose monitoring devices, people can manage diabetes and seek better health outcomes,” says Dr. Praveen Ramachandra, Consultant Endocrinologist, DiaPlus Clinic, Diabetes Superspeciality Clinic, Bangalore.

Dr. Prashanth Subramanian, Head of Medical Affairs, Emerging Asia & India, Diabetes Care, Abbott, added, “Identifying distressful feelings and addressing them is crucial. It is important to find ways to take a holistic approach in managing the condition better… Technology such as continuous glucose monitoring devices, which offer useful real-time information on one’s blood sugar highs or lows and adopting a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise can help navigate the condition.

Ways to steer through the challenges of living with diabetes:

Acknowledging the problem: The first step to solving any health related challenge is to admit that there may be an issue and acknowledge it. It’s normal to have ups and downs when managing one’s health, but constant stress and feeling overwhelmed could be a sign of diabetes distress. To feel better, start by recognizing the signs and patterns. Pay attention to your emotions and body to find the support you need. Additionally, as per the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, people with diabetes are more likely to experience depression. If you suspect symptoms of depression, talk to a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

 Curating a treatment plan: Being open about your diabetes and the struggles you face is key to getting the right care. Managing a health condition can feel lonely because of the changes you need to make. Talk to your loved ones about how you’re feeling and the kind of support you need. Have honest discussions with your doctor about everything affecting your health, both physical and mental. This will help them create a personalized plan for managing your diabetes, including medications and support groups. Technology can also be a big help in your day-to-day management. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) like Freestyle Libre can give you valuable information and empower you to take charge of your health. These prick free and painless monitors track your blood sugar levels all the time, giving your doctor a clearer picture and allowing them to adjust your treatment more effectively.

 Focusing on the Essentials,: The key to feeling better is finding a balance. Figure out what activities and health goals are most important to you. It will make managing diabetes and your overall health feel more manageable in the long run. Technology can be a big help! Tools like trackers can monitor important things like blood sugar levels, fitting seamlessly into your routine without extra work. Don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Balancing a chronic illness with daily life is tough and may take a toll mentally. Make time for things you enjoy such as travelling, gardening, reading – things that remind you there’s more to you than your diagnosis. By focusing on what matters most and letting go of the rest, you can create a healthier and happier life.

NAREDCO and FSAI Sign MoU to Enhance Fire Safety and Security Standards in Real Estate Development

New Delhi, 7th October 2024: The National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO), the apex real estate body working under the aegis of the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs, Government of India, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Fire and Security Association of India (FSAI) to collaborate on improving fire safety, life safety, and security standards in India’s real estate sector. The agreement was formalized today at Le Meridian, New Delhi.

The Fire and Security Association of India (FSAI) is a leading organization with expertise in fire protection, life safety, security, building automation, loss prevention, and risk management. FSAI’s mission is to advance the use of fire safety and security systems in India while promoting a culture of safe living. The association works closely with government agencies to enhance regulations and improve the safety framework for the built environment.

The partnership aims to foster the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and technical advancements in fire protection, life safety, and security systems for the benefit of real estate stakeholders across the country.

Mr. G. Hari Babu, National President of NAREDCO, added, “The MoU with FSAI establishes a more integrated approach to real estate development in Delhi. The combined efforts of both organizations will enhance building safety, streamline regulations, and promote sustainable practices in India’s urban growth.”

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Preeti Singh, Additional Director General, NAREDCO, said, “The collaboration between NAREDCO and FSAI represents a significant milestone for Delhi’s real estate sector. This partnership aligns the industry with global best practices in fire safety and security, ensuring that real estate projects in Delhi meet the highest standards while enhancing the safety and well-being of residents and workers.”

Mr. Saurab Aggarwal, President, Fire and Security Association of India (FSAI), said, “Partnering with NAREDCO is a crucial step for enhancing fire safety in Delhi’s real estate sector. Together, we aim to create safer environments for residents and workers, ensuring that safety becomes an integral part of every development.”

The primary objectives of the MoU are to facilitate knowledge sharing between NAREDCO and FSAI, particularly concerning technological advancements in fire safety, life safety, and security systems. Additionally, the organizations will conduct joint programs such as workshops, seminars, and conferences to educate their members on best practices and new developments in safety standards. Furthermore, both parties will collaborate to develop industry standards for fire and life safety systems in real estate projects, ensuring that these standards align with global benchmarks. NAREDCO and FSAI will also promote membership networking, encouraging participation in collaborative initiatives to foster a community dedicated to excellence in safety and security.

This partnership between NAREDCO and FSAI ensures that real estate development in India is safer, more secure, and aligned with international safety standards, contributing to the growth of smart cities and sustainable infrastructure across the country.

Bank of Baroda Embraces ‘Make in India’ with Infrastructure Upgrade for Enhanced Security and Operations

New Delhi, October 07, 2024: In a significant move towards digital transformation and alignment with the ‘Make in India’ initiative of Government of India’s, Bank of Baroda (BoB), India’s second-largest public sector bank, has successfully upgraded its network infrastructure across 1600+ branches using indigenously manufactured managed switches from HFCL Limited. This strategic partnership marks a milestone in the Indian banking sector’s push towards technological self-reliance and enhanced customer experience.

HFCL has supplied approximately three thousand 24-Port switches to enhance LAN connectivity across the bank’s branches nationwide. The integration of HFCL’s switches are with the bank’s existing Network Access Controller (NAC) system allows Bank of Baroda to offer better services to its end-customers including enhanced network and data security by ensuring strict access controls, allowing only authorized devices and users to access the banking infrastructure. The switches provide high-speed, reliable connectivity across all branches, while the NAC system continuously monitors and manages access.

The deployment was executed in collaboration with Dynacons Systems & Solutions, ensuring a smooth transition to a secure and compliant connectivity system without compromising business continuity. This successful deployment underscores the growing capabilities of Indian technology providers and sets a precedent for other public sector entities looking to modernize their infrastructure while supporting domestic manufacturing.

10th year of Google for India: Making AI real by bringing the power of AI to users, businesses and the economy

New Delhi, 7th October 2024: As Google for India marks its 10th edition, the company is marking a decade of collaborative innovation that has brought the benefits of technology to millions of users across India. The event focussed on making AI real and tangible across different facets of the country – from the individual, to businesses and society more broadly.

As part of the event, Google unveiled the “AI Opportunity Agenda for India” whitepaper, a roadmap to help deliver on the government’s India AI Mission by focussing on three key priorities – investing in innovation infrastructure, building an AI-ready workforce, and promoting inclusive adoption and accessibility.

‘With its digital prowess globally acknowledged, India is poised on the brink of lift-off when you combine its innate ingenuity with the multiplier potential of AI. Today, we shared the many ways in which we’re making AI real and tangible for individuals to learn, do and create more with technology, the exponential unlocks possible for core sectors of the economy, and our commitments towards online safety, skilling and sustainability that will further propel this journey. We are excited to be part of this chapter of India’s digital journey with responsibility and optimism.’ – Roma Datta Chobey, Managing Director, Google India

Accordingly, the event laid out its launches across these three themes:
Bringing AI to every Indian across Google’s consumer products:
Google today announced a wave of AI-powered innovations designed to make information more accessible and helpful for people across India. Leveraging the power of Gemini, Google’s most capable AI model yet, the company is transforming its products to be even more helpful, making its latest innovations AI Overviews in Google Search and Gemini Live available in Indian languages. The company also launched new innovations, including a Google Lens experiment that lets users search with a video and powerful features to make journeys more insightful, visual, and safer with Google Maps.
● Speak to Gemini in 9 Indian languages with Gemini Live: In India, with over 40% of Gemini’s Indian language users already relying on voice interactions, Google recently launched Gemini Live in English for even more natural and free-flowing voice conversations with Gemini on phone. Gemini Live is now being rolled out in Hindi, with eight more Indian languages — Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Telugu, Tamil, Urdu — to follow in the coming weeks.
● Google Search’s AI Overviews in more Indian languages: With a Gemini model customized for Google Search, the company is making it easier for users to quickly find the information they need. The company is expanding its Gen AI experience in Search, AI Overviews, launched earlier this year in English and Hindi, to more Indian languages – Bengali, Marathi, Telugu, and Tamil in the coming weeks. AI Overviews help users quickly find what they need on Search, with links to referenced web pages to go deeper.
● New Google Lens capability to search with video: More people use Google Lens in India every month than in any other country worldwide. Building on this, Google Lens is further revolutionizing how people can search what they see with a brand new way to query: video. Soon, users will be able to use Lens to search with a video and ask more complex questions about things in motion. Google Search’s custom Gemini model will make sense of the video and provide a helpful AI Overview with links to learn more. This capability will soon be available for Search Labs users enrolled in the “AI Overviews and more” experiment, with support for mobile English queries.
● More insightful, visual, safer, journeys with Google Maps: Google Maps is becoming even more visual and insightful, thanks to AI. Using the Gemini model, Maps will now offer helpful summaries of places, analyzing billions of reviews to provide users with a quick understanding of what others are saying. This feature will begin rolling out later this month in India. Additionally, Maps is using AI-powered image recognition to help users now search not just for places, but also for specific items and experiences, like “themed birthday cakes” or “unique picnic spots.” By analyzing billions of images, Maps will deliver visually rich results that prioritize photos and facilitate exploration through a map for visual experience. Building on its commitment to user safety, Google Maps is also introducing two new weather-related alerts in India: low visibility areas due to fog and flooded roads. Users can both see and report these alerts to keep their community informed.
Google today also announced new tools for merchants to showcase their products more creatively and create a more immersive experience for customers.
● New AI tools in Product Studio in Google Merchant Center, will help businesses showcase products more creatively to shoppers. Image-to-Video Animation transforms photos into eye-catching videos. Businesses can even create visuals that match their unique brand style by uploading an image that represents their aesthetic.
● Google has introduced a new way to help restaurants convert menu photos into formatted online menus. By linking their social accounts through their Google Business Profile, they can also showcase deals from their social media posts, alongside deals from popular aggregators like Zomato, Swiggy, EazyDiner, and MagicPin.
● Through the Google Merchant Center, businesses can now offer chat options via SMS or WhatsApp right from their Search listings, making it easier to connect with customers. India is one of the first markets where this will roll out with a select set of merchants, and will expand to all businesses in the coming months.

Google Pay is expanding its offerings with new partnerships and features, now offering Gold-backed secured loans in collaboration with Muthoot Finance. People across India can now access this credit product, with affordable interest rates and flexible usage options – delivering flexibility to the borrower, and security to the lender.

Google Pay also announced that its Gemini-powered support guide can now answer queries related to credit products, helping users make informed choices in their credit journeys.

Under the Google Health charter, the Google research team has been supporting the National Health Authority (NHA) with thought leadership to help build tools that will enable developers to integrate more seamlessly with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission architecture, potentially reducing integration time from up to six months to just two weeks.

Kiran Gopal Vaska, Joint Secretary and Missions Director, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission: “At the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, we are committed to empowering every stakeholder in health with the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) being built under ABDM, ensuring seamless access to quality healthcare services, while also making healthcare more efficient and patient-centric. As we continue to build this, collaboration with global technology leaders like Google is invaluable. We look forward to furthering partnerships that leverage cutting-edge technology and innovation to strengthen India’s healthcare landscape with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.”

The company also announced that, starting next year, Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) ID cards will be made accessible on Google Wallet to the more than 600 million ABHAI ID holders in partnership with Eka Care. ABHA ID Cards enable people to store, share and receive digital health information seamlessly with healthcare groups across the country, and support them in better utilizing India’s public health infrastructure for their well-being. ABHA ID holders will be required to authenticate their device – with a fingerprint or a PIN or passcode – to add or access their health ID in Google Wallet.

Deepak Tuli, Co-founder and COO, Eka Care: “This is a major milestone in India’s efforts to digitize healthcare, a crucial initiative led by our honorable Prime Minister under the ABDM. With Google Wallet, we are enhancing accessibility to medical records for citizens. Their ABHA card will be just a click away, securely stored in their Google Wallet, enabling them to access their medical records anytime, anywhere through the Eka Care app.”

Delivering large-scale impact for businesses and individuals through Gemini and Google Cloud

Building on the incredible transformation led by UPI and Aadhar and driving universal scaled impact, Google Cloud today announced their plan to bring together the power of Beckn-enabled open networks and Gemini, by way of an open-source Gemini Agent Framework, available to every Indian business and user.

This framework, powered by Google’s most capable AI model, Gemini, enables users to search and discover listings – from electronics to seeds, from jobs to educational courses – and make transactions seamlessly across key sectors like agriculture and skilling. People will be able to access this extensive and useful information from a single interface, using their voice, on any network compliant app, in the language of their choice.

Farmers can now have access to a wealth of knowledge, from best practices to market linkages, and even formal credit, all in one place. Glance will be the first app to offer this agent to its 235 million Android users across the country, equipping India’s youth with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy.

To help export the unique and transformative architecture of India’s DPI stack to enable other nations to build their digital infrastructure, Google Cloud is collaborating with the Nandan Nilekani-led EkStep Foundation to create “DPI in a box” – a plug-and-play model based on Open network, identity, digital credentials, and other Digital Public Goods.

As companies look to leverage generative AI to the fullest, many want to be able to control where their data is stored in light of growing regulatory requirements. Earlier this year, Google Cloud enabled organizations using its generative AI capabilities to store their data at rest in India, ensuring sensitive data remains within Indian borders. This includes Generative AI on Vertex AI – PaLM 2, Codey and Imagen models, as well as Text Embeddings and Multimodal Embeddings APIs.

Building on this, Indian organizations across all sectors, including public sector enterprises, will have the option to both store their data at rest and conduct machine learning processing for its cutting-edge large language model, Gemini 1.5 Flash, entirely within India. This provides even greater control and security for organizations using our most-advanced AI models.

“Google Cloud is committed to partnering with Indian businesses and innovators to harness the transformative power of AI. Through initiatives like our open-source Gemini Agent Framework and collaborations on ‘DPI in a box,’ we’re not only advancing India’s digital landscape but also creating a blueprint for digital inclusion,” said Bikram Singh Bedi, Vice President and Country MD, Google Cloud India.

Making investments in Online Safety, Skill development and Green Energy to ensure long-term sustainable growth with AI

To combat evolving scam tactics, Google is soon piloting enhanced fraud protection within Google Play Protect in India. This feature will analyze and automatically block the installation of apps from internet-sideloaded sources such as a web browser, messaging app or file manager, that request sensitive permissions. In financial scams, fraudsters frequently abuse permissions to access SMS, notifications, and accessibility features to steal one-time passwords, financial credentials, and other sensitive data. This initiative has already shown promising results in other regions, blocking nearly 900,000 high-risk installations in Singapore alone.

Sugandh Saxena, CEO, Fintech Association for Consumer Empowerment: “Giving people safe platforms to access digital financial services rests on several pillars. Our work tells us that fraudsters are misusing open web links to distribute malicious apps to harm customers in various ways. Google’s Enhanced Fraud Protection pilot will be a vital toolkit to plug a critical gap in protecting customers from financial crimes. We believe this initiative will help combat such frauds and we look forward to contributing to the program.”

Manish Agrawal, Senior Executive Vice President & Head – Credit Intelligence & Control, HDFC Bank Limited: Rapid digitisation of financial transactions in India over the past few years has spelled convenience to millions of people. It also requires consumers to be vigilant against cyber fraudsters. HDFC Bank is committed to educating about safe digital banking practices with multiple initiatives through the year. Google’s new feature ‘ Google Play Protect Enhanced Fraud Protection’ is another step towards user security and app protection. The new feature proposes to protect the user against harmful apps and malware being downloaded onto their device. In the ongoing fight against digital frauds, concerted efforts by all stakeholders are the key to make a safe digital banking environment for all.

Further strengthening its commitment to online safety, Google will launch a new Google Safety Engineering Center (GSEC) in India in 2025, aimed at building and advancing security and online safety products and solutions that meet the needs of users in India. The Centre will bring together our best-in-class safety engineers, local policy experts, government partners, and academia to tackle India’s online safety challenges, focusing on protecting users from threats like scams and fraud, bolstering enterprise and government security, and advancing cutting-edge research and development

Google also announced two long-term partnerships to advance its sustainability goals in India. Together, these are expected to add 186 MW of new clean energy generation capacity to the Indian grid by 2026. These partnerships demonstrate Google’s dedication to the transition to a 24/7 carbon-free future and our commitment to support the growth of clean energy in India.

The first collaboration with Adani Group will involve procuring bundled energy solutions to advance decarbonisation of Google’s cloud services in India. This includes clean energy supply from a 61.4 MW solar-wind hybrid plant to be developed in Khavda, Gujarat, and expected to start commercial operations in 2025. The second collaboration with CleanMax enables a portfolio of 125.4MW of new clean energy projects, consisting of 66 MW solar in Rajasthan and 59.4 MW wind in Karnataka. These projects are expected to start commercial operations in 2025 and will deliver carbon free energy to the grid where Google operates offices and cloud regions in India. Google’s long-term commitment to these projects provides crucial support to secure the necessary financing, making these clean energy projects a reality.

“These projects will power Google’s growth in India and advance our 24/7 carbon-free energy goals, aligning with our broader strategy to scale up and secure cost-effective clean energy across data centers, offices and other operations in the APAC region,” said Giorgio Fortunato, Head of Clean Energy & Power for Google in Asia Pacific.

As the rise of AI transforms our world, it is imperative that this revolution is inclusive and takes every Indian along. To ensure Indians are equipped to seize emerging opportunities, Google today announced the launch of AI Skills House, designed to empower 10 million Indians with AI literacy.

This comprehensive program will offer Google’s flagship AI courses to a diverse audience, including students, job seekers, educators, developers, and civil officials. Courses, including, Introduction to Generative Al, Introduction to Responsible AI and Introduction to Large Language Models, will be available for free on YouTube and the Google Cloud Skills Boost platform. These courses are available in English, and will extend to seven Indian languages soon. Google is also bringing the Google AI Essentials and GenAI for Educators courses to Hindi speakers.

Google will strengthen this commitment through ongoing efforts through Google Career Certificates and industry-specific programs to foster AI readiness.

In addition, Google.org, Google’s philanthropic arm, announced a $4 million grant to the Central Square Foundation to promote AI literacy across underserved communities in India. This grant will support the non-profit, which is dedicated to enhancing the learning outcomes of school-going children across India, in its new initiative ‘AI Samarth’ to equip and create awareness amongst 5 million students, educators and parents across India on the meaningful and responsible use of AI.

Shaveta Sharma-Kukreja, CEO & MD, Central Square Foundation: “As AI increasingly continues to deeply influence our lives, there will also be an impact on the future of education, and hence there’s an urgent need to equip our communities with the knowledge to engage with AI thoughtfully. The AI Literacy initiative aims to empower over 5 million students, parents, and educators on the meaningful and responsible use of AI. CSF is proud to anchor this ambitious initiative, collaborating with academic institutions and ecosystem organizations to drive widespread AI literacy and ensure informed engagement with AI across India’s educational landscape.”

Google.org will provide pro bono support through its Fellowship program through which Google.org Fellows will work full-time pro-bono with Rocket Learning, a non-profit working to transform Early Childhood Development (ECD) across India. This support will help build an AI-powered personalized coach ‘Saheli’ that will support millions of 3-6 year olds across the country in their learning journeys towards foundational literacy and numeracy skills. This effort builds on the $1.5 million grant that Google.org made previously to Rocket Learning as part of the AI for the Global Goals challenge in 2023.

Vishal Sunil, CTO and Cofounder at Rocket Learning: “We’re thrilled to receive funding and pro bono support from Google.org to enable all children in India to reach their fullest potential and boost their collective IQ. With the support of the Fellows, we are eager to deepen our understanding of personalized learning’s impact and are committed to making quality early education accessible to every child.”

These announcements demonstrate Google’s commitment to India and its belief in the power of AI to transform the country. Google is proud to be working with Indian partners, to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous digital future for all.

Bombay Scottish and Pawar Public School Triumph in TCS InQuizitive 2024 Mumbai Edition

MUMBAI, October 7, 2024: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 100 students across 61 schools at the Mumbai edition of its flagship annual quiz, TCS InQuizitive. The event was open to students from classes 8 to 12 and showcased the intellectual prowess of the city’s youth.

After five intense rounds of quizzing at the regional finals held on Sunday at the Sheila Gopal Raheja Auditorium, Bandra (W), Zahaan Bijli, 15 from Bombay Scottish School in Powai emerged as the winner. Sidhartha Vilas, 15, from Pawar Public School, Chandivali, secured the runner-up position. The two students will now represent Mumbai in the National Finals, competing with champions from 11 other regional rounds from across India. The prizes were distributed by the Chief Guest, Milind Kamble, Delivery Centre Head, Mumbai Branch, TCS.

“It was an exhilarating experience to witness the regional final in the vibrant city of Mumbai. The competition was challenging yet immensely enjoyable. Year after year, the participants of this quiz demonstrate an exceptional thirst for knowledge, and we are honored to welcome them. TCS remains committed to investing in and nurturing talent through various programs and quizzes. We look forward to even greater participation next year as we continue to elevate the standards,” said Milind Kamble.

TCS InQuizitive is an innovative learning initiative designed to enhance curiosity and awareness among students in fields such as information technology, science, sports, engineering, and art. There is no entry fee for participation.

Inauguration ceremony of Hazra Park Durgotsab celebrating 82nd Year with it’s theme as “SUDDHI”

Kolkata, 7th October, 2024: Hazra Park Durga Puja, a symbol of social justice and community empowerment, marks its 82nd year with the theme “SUDDHI,” meaning purification was inaugurated by: Sri. Subrata Bakshi, Member of Parliament; Sri. Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, Minister of Agriculture, Govt of WB; Sri. Debasish Kumar, MLA; Sri. Kartik Banerjee, Social Activist; Sri. Sayan Deb Chatterjee, Joint Secretary of Hazra Park Durgotsab Committee & many other eminent personalities.

Over the years, the puja has grown from a small gathering to a grand event that attracts devotees from across the city. Yet, it has never forgotten its roots. The organizers, primarily from the Dalit community, continue to emphasize the importance of social justice and equality. The puja’s theme this year, “SUDDHI”, is a nod to its historical significance. It is a reminder that while much progress has been made, the fight for equality continues. The puja serves as an inspiration for those striving for a more just and equitable society.

This puja has been at the forefront of the struggle for equality and human rights. Organized primarily by the Dalit community, the puja showcases the power of collective action. The puja is an integral part of Kolkata’s cultural heritage. The puja’s origins are deeply rooted in the socio-political struggles of the 1940s. The Hazra Park Durga Puja is more than just a religious festival; it is a movement. It is a testament to the human spirit and the power of hope. As the world continues to grapple with issues of inequality, the story of the Hazra Park Durga Puja offers a beacon of hope.

Speaking to the media, Sri. Sayan Deb Chatterjee, Joint Secretary of Hazra Park Durgotsab Committee, said, “This year’s theme, ‘SUDDHI’, is a powerful reminder that true purification goes beyond rituals, it’s about cleansing our society of discrimination and inequality. As we come together to celebrate, we honor our history and reaffirm our commitment to building a community where everyone is valued and included.”

The puja’s legacy extends beyond its cultural significance. It has served as a catalyst for social change, inspiring other communities to challenge discriminatory practices and promote inclusivity. As Kolkata prepares for the upcoming Durga Puja festivities, the Hazra Park celebration will once again stand as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the importance of social justice

Hazra Park Durgotsab founded in 1942, the puja began as a small-scale initiative by Dalit employees of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). Despite facing opposition from traditionalists, the organizers persevered, eventually establishing the event as a symbol of social justice. The puja was conceived as a means to challenge the deep-rooted caste-based discrimination prevalent in Kolkata at the time. The Dalits, or the untouchables, who were tasked with cleaning the city’s sewers, were traditionally barred from participating in religious ceremonies. The Hazra Park Durga Puja challenged this oppressive norm, providing a platform for the marginalized to worship and celebrate.

Telangana Icon Awards 2nd Edition: Honoring Trailblazers Across Diverse Fields

Hyderabad, 7, October, 2024: One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Telangana Icon Awards Season 2 – 2024, took centre stage at T-Hub, today. The event shone a spotlight on exceptional achievers from diverse fields, honouring their contributions with the prestigious Telangana Icon Awards, presented by Telangana Bloggers.

The occasion was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Chief Guest Sri Ajay Mishra, IAS (Retd.), Former Special Chief Secretary, Govt. of Telangana & Hon’ble Chairman, IRCS Telangana State, who felicitated the awardees. Adding to the grandeur were Guests of Honour, Kawaljit Singh, Sr. Launch Director, BNI Hyderabad; Janab Tariq Ansari, Chairman, Telangana Minorities Commission; Janab Mohd Khaleequr Rahman, National Coordinator of AICC Kisan Congress; Mr Nazim Shaikh, Wizetron Fashion Lifestyle Entertainment and the valuable support partner and Mrs Daraksha Parveen from Wedding Collection Jewellery, the Title Sponsor and Abdul Muid, Founder, Global Bloggers Community & Telangana Bloggers Community.elevated the event with their presence. Held at the innovation hub of Telangana, T-Hub, this year’s awards ceremony celebrated outstanding accomplishments across a wide spectrum, making it a landmark event.

Speaking on the occasion Sri Ajay Mishra said, Social media is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, but balance is key. It’s easy to get caught up in endless scrolling, which can become counterproductive. My advice is to limit your social media time to between dinner and breakfast. During the day, focus on real-world interactions, talk, connect, and engage with the people around you. The current generation is often glued to their screens, missing out on valuable face-to-face conversations. Let’s aim for a healthier balance: social media at night, meaningful conversations during the day.

The Telangana Icon Awards Season 2 – 2024 is not only a platform for recognizing talent but also a gathering that brings together the entertainment industry and fans alike to witness the magic of creativity and excellence, says Abdul Muid, Founder, Global Bloggers Community & Telangana Bloggers Community. The mission of Telangana Bloggers is to elevate our community’s presence on the global stage and establish us as the most trusted and authentic source of information. Together, we aim to showcase the talent and credibility of Telangana’s bloggers, setting new standards in the worldwide blogging community, he added.

Kawaljit Singh, Sr. Launch Director, BNI Hyderabad; said, in today’s business world, your network is your net worth. We often feel like we know everyone in Hyderabad, but step into any business forum, and you’ll find many unfamiliar faces. The key to growing your business is having others know you and what you do. One of the biggest challenges for business owners is sourcing new clients. Hiring a sales team is often too expensive with uncertain results. This is where BNI, the world’s largest business networking and referral organization, comes in. It connects business owners, allowing them to leverage each other’s networks to generate referrals and grow together.

Janab Mohd Khaleequr Rahman said, this is the age of the bloggers, the advent of social media especially Instagram, Facebook, YouTube brought about a revolution and brought forward a generation of influencers and bloggers. AI has only enhanced this breed of inspirers and motivators. One of the most pressing issues that needs your expertise in raising mass awareness is the devastating loss of lives due to road accidents. Both Cricketer Azharuddin and I tragically lost our sons in such accidents, and we are committed to preventing others from enduring the same heartache. It’s crucial to raise awareness about the dangers of rash driving, and the tragic consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. We are not here just to make money and live in luxury, we have a responsibility toward our society and fellow human beings. Every year, we lose 1.5 lakh people to road accidents, with many more left permanently disabled, becoming a burden on themselves, their families, and society. This problem demands urgent attention, and we urge Telangana Bloggers, as a prestigious platform, to help sensitize society on this critical issue and drive meaningful change.

Janab Tariq Ansari said, Bloggers are doing incredible work, and I urge you to use the platform for an even greater cause. Let’s raise social awareness together by running impactful campaigns on critical issues like women’s safety, their education, environmental protection, and other challenges plaguing our society. Your voice has the power to inspire change, let’s use it to make a difference.

The star-studded gala event, honoured and celebrated the remarkable achievements of trailblazers across diverse fields, including Influencers, YouTubers, Bloggers, Entrepreneurs, Film, Music, Television, Arts, Lifestyle etc. This year’s event turned out to be a spectacle of talent and grandeur, featuring a dazzling array of performances by some of the industry’s top artists. The night was further illuminated by appearances from the most celebrated names in the entertainment world, adding a touch of glitz and glamour to an already unforgettable evening.

Wedding Collection Jewellery and Wedding Collection Studio are the title sponsors of the Telangana Icon Awards Season 2 – 2024. The other sponsors are Galaxy Opticals, Germanten Hospital, Celebrity Dentistry, Hyclues (Your Partner in Digital Growth), Sadia’s Hyderabadi Jewellery, M H Whitening Cream, Pride Regency, Blue Tailor & Pyramid IT Solutions. Support Partner of the event is Y Mary Cynthia, Miss India Gorgeous 2024.

Pullela Gopichand Inaugurates nSure Healthy Spine – India’s First Integrated Preventive Spine and Sports Health Center

Hyderabad, October 7, 2024 — A milestone in spinal healthcare was achieved today as nSure Healthy Spine, India’s first Integrated Preventive Spine and Sports Health Center, was officially launched in Hyderabad. The inauguration, graced by renowned badminton champion and Chief National Coach, Badminton Association of India (BAI) – Pullela Gopichand, marked a significant step towards transforming spine care in India. Other dignitaries graced the occasion include Sri V. Chamundeswaranath, Governing Council Member of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Sri Ramakrishna Lingireddy, General Secretary of HYSEA, and Ms. Johanna Pentti, Head of Training & Education at Nordic Health, Finland.

In a unique partnership with Nordic Health, Finland, nSure Healthy Spine is pioneering a holistic approach to spine health. Leveraging advanced AI-powered technology, the center offers personalized, data-driven solutions for a wide range of spinal challenges and discomforts. From athletes to the corporate workforce to everyday individuals, nSure is committed to preventing and addressing spine-related problems before they escalate.

nSure is differentiated for:

● Innovative Approach: nSure’s AI-powered “PhyGital” technology combines in-person and digital care for a comprehensive and accessible experience and provides data-driven, proactive, accessible, and comprehensive Musculoskeletal (MSK) care

● Preventive Care: The center focuses on early detection and prevention of spine-related issues, emphasizing the importance of proactive and preventive health measures.

● Expert Guidance: With a team of experienced healthcare professionals and a partnership with Nordic Health, nSure brings in world-class medical technology and expertise in spine care.

Sri Pullela Gopichand while discussing the importance of preventive care, not only for athletes but for all individuals said, “The unique facility, nSure Healthy Spine stands as a beacon for those who believe in the power of preventive health. As an athlete, I understand the critical role that spine health plays in performance. nSure Healthy Spine is more than just a clinic—it’s a movement toward a healthier lifestyle,” added Gopichand highlighting how the facility’s emphasis on spine care resonated with his own experiences.

Sri V. Chamundeswaranath, who attended the event as a Guest of Honour, praised the initiative, noting how the center’s focus on proactive health care is aligned with the growing demands of today’s fast-paced lifestyles. “nSure Healthy Spine is a game-changer. With our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, the need for preventive care has never been more urgent. This center’s innovative approach will benefit not only professionals but everyday individuals who may not even be aware of the risks they face.”

Sri Ramakrishna Lingireddy, General Secretary of HYSEA speaking at the event said, “I am pleased to be part of the opening of the nSure Healthy Spine Center, a vital step towards improving the well-being of IT professionals. With low back pain (LBP) becoming increasingly common due to long hours of sedentary work, this center will focus on preventive care, ergonomic solutions, and spine health education. By addressing key risk factors, the center aims to enhance productivity and quality of life for IT professionals, reflecting our commitment to building a healthier, more productive workforce.”

During the event, Ms. Johanna Pentti from Nordic Health, Finland, spoke about the significance of the partnership. “By combining our expertise in advanced medical technology with nSure’s vision for preventive spine care, we are creating a holistic and innovative approach to spinal healthcare in India. This collaboration represents the future of spine and sports health.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Kasu Prasad Reddy, Chairman of nSure Healthy Spine, remarked on the center’s vision: “Our goal is simple yet profound—to redefine spine health in India. We want people to realize that preventive care is not just an option but a necessity. With the expertise of Nordic Health and the support of our esteemed guests today, we are confident that nSure will lead the way in preventive healthcare.”

Having already treated over 2,500 professionals for spinal and sports health, nSure’s impact is already being felt. The center offers an affordable, personalized pathway to better health for all, from young children to elderly individuals. And while the cost of services varies based on the individual’s needs, the center remains committed to keeping preventive care accessible.

Dr. Sukumar Sura, Chairman and MD of the Asian Spine Hospital and Co-founder of nSure Healthy Spine, emphasized the center’s commitment to non-invasive treatments: “At nSure, we believe that chronic spine issues can often be addressed without surgery. Through personalized and preventive care, we work to ensure long-term spinal health for our patients. It’s about treating today and preventing tomorrow.”

Mr. Naresh Kumar Pagidimarry, Co-Founder and CEO, nSure Healthy Spine said, “We, at nSure, are on a mission to revolutionize the “Preventive Spine Care” for a healthier and active life.”

The event also marked the announcement of a remarkable partnership with the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy (PGBA), a collaboration that is set to redefine sports health in India. This partnership will enable nSure to extend its preventive spine care services to athletes and sports professionals across the country, ensuring that they remain at the top of their game.