Unshackled Campus Tour to Empower Talent Mobility from Across The World to the United States and Beyond

22nd July 2024 San Francisco, California, United States The Curious Maverick LLC recently conducted the “Unshackled Campus Tour”, a transformative initiative dedicated to educating and empowering highly skilled international students on the intricacies of the United States immigration system. This pioneering month-long journey visited 15 universities nationwide, which reached over 4000 students in person and engaged with over 15,000 virtually. One of the key points discussed during the campus tour was on “How to prepare for an O1 talent visa, options for students who got laid off, and alternatives to the H1B lottery”. This is a main issue faced by immigrants especially Indian students, who are striving to carve their niche in US. Some of the prime stops in the tour included Harvard University, UC Berkeley, UT Dallas, and a flagship event hosted in Boston, MA with over 500 registrants. The Boston event, along with many others on the tour, were free and open to the public to join, beyond international graduate students. The campus tour ended at the prestigious Stanford University in California which saw a huge turnout by Indian Students.

The “Unshackled Campus Tour” was born out of the book “Unshackled”, authored by Soundarya Balasubramani (and Sameer Khedekar) as well as an online community filled with 400+ talent visa aspirants, both under the umbrella of The Curious Maverick LLC. The Unshackled book is the first one in the market that demystifies the complex U.S. immigration system in a manner that is friendly and accessible to international students and nonimmigrant workers. The book has been read by 3000+ high-skilled immigrants since its launch last year and has been praised by experts in the field, including Dr. Tyler Cowen, a noted American economist, who called it the “best and clearest attempt at explaining a complex and muddled immigration system”.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of students from India embark on a journey to study in the United States but are poorly armed with knowledge of the immigration system they are about to encounter. Ms. Balasubramani’s book, Unshackled, breaks down the system — and the myriad of pathways — in simple and humorous language that is accessible to everyone. “Reading this book was a pivotal moment for me,” notes Anurupa Sinha, one of the readers. “Not only did it give me the clarity to navigate my entrepreneurial journey, it also came with stories of others who’d done this before.” She continues, “Honestly, I wish this book was given to me along with my visa stamp at the U.S. consulate.”

This is not Ms. Balasubramani’s first attempt at simplifying and promoting talent mobility. She published her first book, Admitted, in 2020, aimed at helping study abroad aspirants by condensing the end-to-end process of getting into one’s dream university and preparing for the same. Admitted has been read by 5000+ aspirants and has a 4.8-star rating with over 500+ reviews across Amazon, Goodreads, and Google Playbooks. “I loved how Soundarya depicted not only the strategies and the skill sets required to pursue higher education efficiently but also the vulnerabilities and the dilemmas in doing so,” shares Varun Tiwari, one of the book’s many passionate readers.

With Unshackled, Ms. Balasubramani and her co-author, Sameer Khedekar, tackle something far more complex: the U.S. immigration system and the labyrinth of pathways within it. Most international students move to the United States assuming that the H-1B is their only option to stay back and work in the country. Ms. Balasubramani’s book, and the “Unshackled Campus Tour” initiative, is a way to equip international students with the knowledge of other pathways they can pursue along with the resources they need to secure their future in the United States (and beyond). The book (and the tour) gives into lesser-known pathways such as the O-1 extraordinary visa, cap-exempt H-1Bs, International Entrepreneur Parole, and others, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of their options post-graduation — both to work and start companies in the United States (and beyond).

“Our mission with the ‘Unshackled Campus Tour’ is to empower talented international students with the tools they need to navigate the complex landscape of U.S. immigration,” said Ms. Balasubramani. “By providing them with insights into various visa pathways and practical guidance on building their profiles, we aim to help these top students unlock their full potential and secure their place in the United States, Canada, and beyond.”

The “Unshackled Campus Tour” will be accompanied by top lawyers and visa experts from esteemed firms, including MobSquad, a Canadian relocation startup, Bay Area Immigration, and Greenberg Traurig, both law firms based out of California, Gonzalez Olivieri LLC, a law firm based out of Texas, Summit Legal, a law firm based out of New York, and Banyan Law, a law firm based out of California. These partners will provide invaluable expertise and guidance to students throughout the tour.

“By partnering with leading legal experts, we’re able to offer students unparalleled access to insights and advice on navigating the U.S. and Canadian immigration system,” said Ms. Balasubramani. “Together, we’re committed to empowering international students to achieve their academic and professional goals in the United States — and beyond.”

For students in India aspiring to one day move to the United States for education and more, make sure to keep a copy of Unshackled (and Admitted) by your side so you can rely on it to be your guiding hand as you navigate a complex and muddled system. This is more timely than ever, given the upcoming election season. Ms. Balasubramani’s books and now the tour serves as a beacon of stability and reassurance amid the uncertain political landscape, offering concrete guidance and resources to navigate potential policy changes.

Book on Heritage of Sari titled “Indian Sari Sartoria and Semiotics” released at Chitkara University

22nd July 2024 Chandigarh, India  The Department of Fashion Design, Chitkara Design School, Chitkara University, organized a unique event “The Living Heritage of The Indian Sari” to commemorate World Heritage Day.

Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University, releasing a book titled “Indian Sari – Sartoria and Semiotics” by Prof (Dr) Vaibbhavi Ranavaade at Chitkara University

On the occasion, Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University, released a book titled “Indian Sari – Sartoria and Semiotics” by Prof (Dr) Vaibbhavi Ranavaade, Dean, Fashion Design at Chitkara Design School, Chitkara University. The book is a SCOPUS Indexed publication based on her doctoral research ‘A Semiotic Study of the Indian Sari’. Among the journal indexes available to researchers globally, one of the most comprehensive citation databases is SCOPUS. Being indexed in Scopus is an indicator of a journal’s quality and impact in the academic community.

In this book, which has been published by Routledge India, Dr Vaibbhavi examines the various meanings of sari which serves as a symbol of Indian femininity and tradition as well as a means of creative fashion expression for modern India.

The book discusses the semiotic interpretations of the sari today by understanding its significance for traditional weavers, designers and people who wear saris at home, work or for religious or cultural occasions. The book also looks at the processes involved in making traditional saris today, draping and weaving styles, buying behavior, saris in pop culture, pride parades and Bollywood, and interpretations of what the sari signifies in different socio-economic circles.

Commemorating the sari, the fashion students organized an event wherein they unveiled their creations in the fashion extravaganza ‘Sari Saga – Heritage of Indian Sari’. Each piece reflected a myriad of ideas and sentiments inherent in the dynamic array of Saris. Adding a touch of reverence to the occasion, students adorned themselves in diverse Sari styles, which served as a tribute to their rich cultural legacy.

On the occasion, Dr. Madhu Chitkara congratulated the students and staff of Department of Fashion Design and said, “This unique event showcases the beauty of Indian fashion and throws light upon the heritage and importance of Sari. It is pertinent that the world is familiar with the cultural legacy of Sari and keep taking the tradition forward.”

A unique fashion installation based on the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” was presented through costumes and literature. The universal appeal for the iconic heritage of Indian Sari and its intersections that transcend borders of nations, communities, class, creed and race, gender and unify humankind for several thousand centuries was interpreted on the drapes with interplay of color, texture and forms.

Eight unique sari installations on themes such as Sari harmony, Sari Shakti, Woodland Whisper, Indian Festivals, Rainbow- Threads of Inclusivity, Dance of Life, Language acceptance and typography, and Unity in Diversity were installed with mixed media presentation of projection with live models draped in conceptual saris.

The event concluded with performances of traditional Siddha and bhangra by the students from the Office of Student Affairs, Chitkara University.

Embarking on a New Era: Indiatimes 2.0 Redefines Digital Storytelling for Modern Youth

22nd July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Indiatimes, the lifestyle brand of Times Internet, has long been hailed as the ultimate digital destination for youth. From the latest trends to timeless classics, the brand curates diverse content reflecting the preferences of today’s youth. With a fresh zeal to inform, educate, and empower the youth, Indiatimes embarks on a new content creation journey with Indiatimes 2.0.

The brand’s new avatar goes beyond mere information delivery; it aims to become a social-savvy brand and spark thoughts, ignite debates, and foster meaningful conversations. Indiatimes will buzz with a new style and format of content, blending humour and quirkiness with thought-provoking narratives. Debates, polls, contests, and tête-à-têtes with fan-favorite influencers on social media will place the audience at the center stage of India’s most happening scenes.

Abhijeet Anand, Business Head of Indiatimes, expressed his enthusiasm for this transformative journey, stating, “As the premier lifestyle platform under Times Internet, Indiatimes has always been at the forefront of creating trendsetting narratives that resonate with the nation’s youth. This metamorphosis marks our most thrilling chapter yet, as we strive to set new trends with unprecedented vigor to engage with our audience like never before. As we embark on the journey for Indiatimes 2.0, we have a robust pipeline of IPs (Intellectual Properties) centered around themes such as “Made on India” (showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage and innovation on a global scale), education and personal finance.”

The platform’s new coverage will deliver the latest stories from diverse fields such as lifestyle, tech, travel, personal finance, entertainment and auto. The sole commitment is to create unparalleled formats that directly resonate with Indian youth, placing them and their interests at the forefront of everything.

Wheebox, an ETS Company Signals Growth in India by Launching its 2nd Capability Centre in Gurugram

22nd July 2024  Gurugram, Haryana, India  Wheebox ETS, a subsidiary of ETS, the world’s largest non-profit educational testing and assessment organization, launched the relocation of its state-of-the-art India headquarters and 2nd Capability Centre in India. The new centre will host 150 Analysts, Researchers, Support Services and Core management teams at M3M International Financial Centre (IFC) in Gurugram. The occasion was graced by the distinguished chief guest Mr Sougata Choudhary, Executive Director – Skills, AA & IR Confederation of Indian Industry, Mr. Pankaj Bansal, Founder and CEO of PeopleStrong and Guest of Honor Mr. Devashish Sharma, CEO of Taggd expressed their delight in reaching a significant milestone at Wheebox ETS.

This contemporary workspace has been designed to cultivate a collaborative and innovative work environment. The environment setting is planned to empower teams to work cohesively, exchange ideas efficiently, and provide exceptional service to the firm’s valued global clientele. Beyond its functional aspects, the new headquarters places a strong emphasis on highlighting the well-being of employees like the Meditation room, Health Centre, Infirmary, Creche, Recreation room, Game Centre and a Indian and Continental Cafeteria.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Nirmal Singh, Chief Operating Officer of Wheebox ETS, said, “The relocation to our new headquarters and Capability Centre marks an auspicious occasion for Wheebox ETS. This move signifies not only a new chapter for the company but also a significant value addition for all those who are part of the Wheebox family. Our new headquarters will serve as a state-of-the-art workplace for our employees, enhancing their productivity, our focus to create a diverse and respected workplace for our people is aligned with our commitment to make Wheebox one of the ‘Best Places to Work in’, Wheebox got certified as ‘Great Place to Work’ in April.”

The establishment of the headquarters and our 2nd capability centre in Haryana underscores our commitment to quality and expansion in the realms of testing services and education on a global scale. This strategic investment will see the employment of over 250 talented individuals across the two locations in Gurugram.

5 myths about equity SIPs debunked

22nd July 2024  Pune, Maharashtra, India  Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is a popular way for people to invest in the stock market without needing a big chunk of money upfront. But, like many things, it comes with its fair share of myths and misconceptions. Let’s take a closer look at some of these myths and how equity SIPs can help debunk them.

Myth 1: Timing the market is key

One common myth is that you need to time the market perfectly to make money. People often believe they should buy when the market is low and sell when it’s high. However, this is easier said than done. Trying to time the market can be risky and stressful. Instead, equity SIPs follow a disciplined approach where you invest a fixed amount regularly, regardless of market conditions. This helps you average out the cost of your investments over time, reducing the impact of market volatility.

Myth 2: Stock market is only for the wealthy

Another misconception is that investing in the stock market is only for the wealthy. However, SIPs have made it possible for people from all walks of life to invest in the stock market with as little as a few hundred rupees per month. Equity SIPs allow you to start small and gradually increase your investment over time as your financial situation improves. You can use an SIP top-up calculator to figure out how much more you should invest according to your financial goals

Myth 3: SIPs guarantee profits

While SIPs can be a good way to invest, it’s important to understand that they don’t guarantee profits. The stock market can be unpredictable, and there are no guarantees when it comes to returns. However, by staying invested for the long term and remaining disciplined with your SIP contributions, you can increase your chances of generating decent returns over time.

Myth 4: SIPs are only for bull markets

Some people believe that SIPs only work in bull markets when stock prices are rising. However, equity SIPs are designed to work in all market conditions. In fact, investing regularly through SIPs can be particularly beneficial during bear markets when stock prices are low. By continuing to invest during these periods, you can take advantage of lower prices and potentially generate higher returns when the market eventually recovers.

Myth 5: SIPs are complicated

Investing in SIPs is often perceived as complicated, but it’s quite simple. All you need to do is choose a mutual fund scheme, decide on the amount you want to invest, and set up an SIP plan with a mutual fund company. Once it’s set up, your contributions will be deducted automatically from your bank account at regular intervals, making it a hassle-free way to invest.

How equity SIPs challenge these myths

Equity fund SIPs provide a systematic and disciplined approach to investing in the stock market, helping investors overcome common myths and misconceptions. By investing regularly over time, regardless of market conditions, you can take advantage of rupee cost averaging and potentially generate returns in the long run. Additionally, SIPs make investing accessible to everyone, regardless of their income or financial situation, and offer a simple and convenient way to build wealth over time.

In conclusion, while there may be myths surrounding SIP investments, equity SIPs offer a practical and effective solution for investors looking to grow their wealth in the stock market. By understanding and embracing the benefits of equity SIPs, investors can debunk these myths and achieve their financial goals with confidence.

JK Cement Boosts Production Capacity with New Production Line at Panna Plant

22nd July 2024  Panna, Madhya Pradesh, India  JK Cement, one of India’s leading manufacturers of grey cement and a prominent white cement producer globally, proudly announces the inauguration of a new production line at its Panna Plant. This development marks a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy and reaffirms its commitment to meeting the growing demand for cement while setting its position as a key industry player.

The new production line at the Panna Plant effectively doubles its clinker production capacity to 6.6 million metric tons per annum (MTPA), up from the previous 3.3 MTPA. This expansion positions JK Cement to cater efficiently to the increasing demand for cement across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Central India.

Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement Ltd., said, “JK Cement is built on a foundation of growth and expansion. Our new Panna Plant production line is a key pillar in our comprehensive business expansion plan, propelling us towards our vision of becoming a leading player in the cement industry. This strategic expansion allows us to meet the rising demand for high-quality cement, ultimately enhancing our ability to serve our customers. We remain committed to delivering value to all stakeholders and contributing to the nation’s development.”

Mr. Madhavkrishna Singhania, Deputy Managing Director and CEO, JK Cement Ltd., commented, “The launch of our new production line underscores JK Cement’s unwavering commitment to achieving long-term growth and operational excellence. This expansion empowers us to optimize production processes, unlock our full potential, and position ourselves for the future of the cement industry.”

The new production line integrates advanced automation systems for precise control and monitoring, minimizing human intervention and enhancing efficiency. State-of-the-art machinery and equipment ensure optimal performance, reliability, consistent output quality, and energy efficiency, reflecting JK Cement’s commitment to sustainability. The plant incorporates energy-saving technologies, optimized kiln systems, and waste heat recovery systems to reduce energy consumption and lower the carbon footprint. Stringent quality control measures in the plant guarantee that cement products meet the highest industry standards.

Additionally, the Panna Plant expansion project generates employment opportunities, contributing to socio-economic growth in the region. JK Cement actively engages with the local community through educational, healthcare, and social initiatives, strengthening its bond with stakeholders.

With a significant investment of Rs. 2850 Cr, the Panna Plant expansion project reflects JK Cement’s vision for sustainable growth, environmental protection, and contribution to economic and social development in the region.

From Oakridge to Global Journeys: 100+ Students Triumph in Global University Placements

22nd July 2024  Hyderabad, Telangana, India  Oakridge International School Gachibowli proudly announces a significant milestone in its academic achievement with over 100 placements in prestigious universities globally. This remarkable feat is a testament to the unwavering dedication of students and teachers, whose relentless pursuit of excellence has propelled them to success in their academic endeavors and beyond.

Noteworthy institutions in the list where Oakridgers are moving to include Cambridge University, Yale University, Purdue University, Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), King’s College London, Imperial College London, University of Westminster in London, Nottingham Trent University, Manchester Metropolitan University, New York University, University of Warwick, and University of California, Irvine. Each acceptance is a testimony to the trust and collaboration between students, staff, and teachers, resulting in a defining characterization of Oakridge.

These placements underscore Oakridge’s commitment to nurturing and empowering its students to reach their full academic and personal potential. By providing a safe and nurturing space that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and resilience, Oakridge prepares its students to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

“We are overjoyed to witness our students’ exceptional achievements in securing admissions to these prestigious universities worldwide,” shared Ms Dipika Rao, Principal at Oakridge International School Gachibowli. “Their success is a testament to the culture at Oakridge, where students are educated and inspired to discover their life purpose, explore their capabilities, and create a future that aligns with their aspirations.”

As Oakridge International School Gachibowli continues its journey, it remains resolute in its commitment to providing a transformative educational experience. This experience equips students with a future roadmap, instils resilience and flexibility, and prepares them to adapt and thrive in any environment they choose to explore.

Infinity Learn by Sri Chaitanya Announces Breakthrough Results in JEE Main 2024

22nd July 2024  Bangalore, Karnataka, India  Infinity Learn by Sri Chaitanya – India’s only Hybrid Learning platform delivering outcome-based learning at scale – today announced ground-breaking results in the JEE Main 2024. 300 of its enrolled learners have qualified for JEE Advanced 2024.

Among those, 32 learners have attained scores placing them in the 99th percentile or higher, with 3 learners achieving ranks in Top 100 and 11 learners achieving ranks in Top 1000.

Congratulating the achievers, Ms. Sushma Boppana, Co-founder of Infinity Learn and Academic Director of Sri Chaitanya Group, said, “I am immensely proud of our learners’ achievements in the JEE Main 2024. Their success highlights our unwavering commitment to excellence and the belief in the potential of every student. We congratulate each learner for their hard work and dedication and reiterate that we remain committed to providing them with the best resources and support to excel further in their academic journeys.”

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Ujjwal Singh, Founding CEO, Infinity Learn by Sri Chaitanya, stated, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the top performers of JEE Main 2024. At Infinity Learn, we are dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering success via innovative teaching methodologies and personalized learning experiences, guided by our core principle, ‘Baccha Seekha Ki Nahi’. Today, as we celebrate this remarkable accomplishment of students who have qualified for JEE Advanced and specially Anmol Raj who made us proud by achieving top rank in Patna city. We take immense pride in the fact that Infinity Learn, an outcome-based learning platform, continues to redefine the boundaries of academic excellence and achievement.”

The accomplishments of its learners in the JEE Main 2024 fill Infinity Learn with immense pride. As the sole Hybrid Learning platform in India delivering outcome-based education at scale, the company is deeply committed to guiding every student towards academic success. Backed by its dedication to quality resources and ongoing innovation, Infinity Learn strives to simplify and enhance the learning journey, ensuring education is accessible and impactful for all.