23, Feb 2024
Valley Insurance Agency Alliance Names New Alliance Coordinator
David Drda previously worked as an Account Manager for sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management.
(St. Louis, Mo., Feb. 23, 2024) David Drda was recently hired as an Alliance Coordinator for Valley Insurance Agency Alliance (VIAA), a cohesive family of more than 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois. His responsibilities include generating a systematic approach to information gathering, analysis, and problem solving. Drda will also assist alliance member agencies with system processing and carrier code updates.
Drda brings 12 years of insurance industry experience to the alliance. Prior to joining VIAA, Drda served as an Account Manager for sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management where he helped clients with policy services. He previously worked at various Illinois insurance agencies in numerous capacities. Drda earned his Associate of Arts degree and Associate of Science degree in Business Management from Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, Ill.
“We moved David from Powers to VIAA based upon his strong detail-oriented skill set,” said Valley Insurance Agency Alliance’s co-founder Henry Powers. “Our alliance continues to grow its membership, and David is the ideal candidate to work with onboarding new agencies to ensure efficiency and profitability.”
Founded in 2006, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance generates more than $600 million in written premium and is the regional founding member SIAA – The Agent Alliance, a $12.5 billion national insurance network. Founded in 1991, sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.viaa4u.com.
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- By Neel Achary
22, Feb 2024
ArohanPrivilege is now available to all eligible customers in India
Arohan Financial Services Limited, a leading NBFC-MFI, regulated by the Reserve Bank of India is now extending its first-in-the-industry digital microfinance service, ‘ArohanPrivilege,’ to all eligible microfinance customers across the country. Headquartered in Kolkata, Arohan operates from 18 states and is soon to expand its operations in southern parts of India.
In FY 2023, Arohan steered the launch of ArohanPrivilege, the Indian microfinance industry’s first-in-the-kind digital loan sourcing facility. This unique initiative is specific to gold-standard customers where they are offered the facility of receiving and serving their loans through 100% digital and cashless means, in a matter of minutes, and through Arohan’s proprietary apnaArohan app – all from the comfort of their homes.
ArohanPrivilege customers are offered special benefits and loans with low interest rates and loan processing fees. Customer can apply for loans from the comfort of their homes, without any group formation and center meetings. They are also provided with the flexibility to choose a loan amount and repayment frequency that is suitable for them – and all of this within minutes of a successful loan application.
Commenting on the expansion of this service, Ms Reema Mukherjee, Head of Digital Growth, Arohan Financial Services Limited said, “We are excited to announce the expansion of our first-in-the-industry digital lending facility for eligible customers nationwide, highlighting our commitment to fostering financial inclusion in India. We respect our customers’ time and the trust they have in us – ArohanPrivilege empowers Customers to save both time and money.”
22, Feb 2024
Marut Drones and PJTSAU’s Revolutionary Direct Seeding Device Receives World’s First Utility Patent
February 22, 2024 – Hyderabad, India: Marut Drones, India’s leading drone manufacturer, has been granted the world’s first utility patent for a term of 20 years starting from November 29, 2021, under the provisions of the Patents Act, 1970. This patent recognizes Marut’s direct seeding drone, developed in collaboration with Prof. Jayashankar Telangana State Agriculture University (PJTSAU), which incorporates a multi-nozzle aerial seed dispensing device. With this patent, Marut Drones endeavors to facilitate the widespread adoption of direct seeding drones for rice cultivation at the grassroots level.
Marut’s seeding drones have obtained the patent following scientific validation by PJTSAU, which has also released Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for their use. This validation underscores the reliability and efficacy of the technology in enhancing rice production.
The patented system enables the aerial dispersion of diverse rice seeds through a meticulously designed multi-nozzle mechanism, optimizing the efficiency and effectiveness of seed-sowing processes. Marut has adhered to standard operating procedures for seeding, ensuring precise parameters such as drone speed, swath width, nozzle type and pressure, spray volume, spraying altitude, and droplet size in Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) using drones.
Prem Kumar Vislawath, CEO and Founder of Marut Drones, emphasized, “This patented technology will revolutionize rice farming practices in India. By reducing on-farm manual labor through drone technology, we aim to address the persistent challenges faced by farmers, particularly labor shortages due to rapid urbanization. From seeding paddy to controlling mosquitoes and pests in rice fields, labor costs pose significant hurdles. Through our collaboration with PJTSAU, we seek to promote the widespread adoption of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) through drones, fostering a more economically viable and sustainable rice cultivation ecosystem.”
Marut’s direct seeding drone is a multi-utility attachment, enabling farmers to utilize drones not only for pesticide application/spraying but also for direct seeding, thereby accelerating Return on Investment (ROI). This multi-functionality allows the drone to be utilized around the year, justifying its name AG365.
By leveraging Marut Drones’ innovative DSR drones, farmers can achieve a remarkable 92% reduction in water usage, significantly accelerating ROI and profitability timelines from 3 years to just 1.5 years. The DSR drones are highly feasible under delayed monsoons, late release of canal water, or other contingency situations, addressing major challenges faced by rice farmers.
Traditional obstacles such as nursery time, transplantation, and skilled labor shortages are effectively mitigated, empowering farmers with enhanced operational efficiency and flexibility. With Marut’s DSR drones, farmers can sow up to 30 acres in a single day, requiring only 33,333 man-days to cover 500,000 acres compared to the 50 lakh man-days required for manual transplanting. Moreover, this technology minimizes operational exposure to harmful pesticides during pest outbreaks.
Through extensive trials conducted across 5 states, Marut Drones is poised to revolutionize rice farming practices nationwide. As India grapples with the impending dip of 2 million tons in rice production, creating disruptions in the global rice market, Marut Drones aims to seed 1 million hectares of land by 2030.
By fortifying food security efforts with its patented technology, Marut emerges as a frontrunner in innovation. The company’s comprehensive training programs targeting farmers, rural youth, students, and agricultural stakeholders will promote the adoption of direct seeding in rice cultivation using drone technology.
Marut’s patented technology not only opens avenues for rural employment but also encourages the establishment of Community Health Centers (CHCs) facilitated by Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Women’s Self-Help Groups.
22, Feb 2024
Quantum Energy unveils 2 State-of-the-Art Showrooms in Samastipur and Madhubani
22 February 2024: Quantum Energy, a leading electric vehicle (EV) startup specializing in the design, development, and manufacturing of electric scooters, has announced the inauguration of its 2 new showrooms in Bihar state with presence in Madhubani and Samastipur. These new additions will further expand Quantum Energy’s presence and accessibility to Indian customers.
The inauguration of the showrooms took place in the presence of esteemed dignitaries and senior officials from Quantum Energy. Madhubani dealership spans approximately 1250 square feet and operates under Mithila E Motors. The dealership in Samastipur spans approximately 1200 square feet and operates under the dealership name Battery Point. The showrooms are strategically positioned to provide a convenient hub for customers to explore Quantum Energy’s cutting-edge electric scooters and firsthand experience their advanced features.
At the Mithila E Motors and Battery Point showrooms, all Quantum Energy electric scooters are prominently displayed, allowing visitors to marvel at the impeccable design, impressive performance, and exceptional build quality of each vehicle. The diverse lineup of electric scooters includes the Plasma, Elektron, Milan, and Bziness range, catering to a wide range of commuting needs for Indian consumers.
Speaking about the launch, Mr. Chakravarthi C., Managing Director of Quantum Energy Limited, expressed, With the opening of our new store in Madhubani and Samastipur, we are excited to increase our presence in Bihar as saw an amazing response at Gaya showroom we launched 6 months ago.. It is quite promising that there is a rising interest in electric two-wheelers in the state. Numerous cutting-edge features of our Quantum Energy scooters strongly appeal to all market sectors. Our commitment to making our cutting-edge electric scooters more accessible to the public is fueled by the growing demand for environmentally friendly mobility options. We are currently trying to create more showrooms in Bihar to accommodate this demand and make our eco-friendly mobility products more easily accessible.
Quantum Energy has expanded its network of showrooms around India to an amazing 60 and 03in Bihar with the opening of the Madhubani and Samastipur showrooms. With the support of the prestigious Kusalava Group, which has over 50 years of experience in the automotive industry, Quantum Energy is committed to reducing carbon emissions, reducing its carbon footprint, and making India a leader in sustainable mobility worldwide.
22, Feb 2024
Indian Revival Group presented, ‘PANCH PRAN’ at Jan Bharat Rang Mahotsav last evening
Jan Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2024, organized by the Ministry of Culture and National School of Drama, is celebrating 25 years of Bharat Rang Mahotsav. Indian Revival Group staged its new production depicting, ‘PANCH PRAN’ on Wednesday, February 21st, 2024 at Jan Bharat Rang Mahotsav for Bougain Villa Apartments Residents Association, Delhi at Gazebo Park, Sector B, Pocket 3, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.
22, Feb 2024
IIT Kanpur licenses innovative Bone Regeneration technology to Conlis Global Inc
Bengaluru, February 22, 2024: The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT-K) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Conlis Global Inc. for licensing an innovative new technology that promotes bone healing and regeneration. Conlis Global Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Canada that helps to bring products from R&D to the market.
The MOU was signed by Prof. Tarun Gupta, Dean of Resources and Development at IIT Kanpur, and Dr. Sumrita Bhat, CEO, of Conlis Global Inc. at IIT Kanpur in the presence of Prof. S. Ganesh, Director, IIT Kanpur, Prof. Ankush Sharma, Professor In-charge, Start-up Incubation and Innovation Centre (SIIC), IIT Kanpur, Prof. Ashok Kumar, Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering, IIT Kanpur, and Dr. Raman Koul, Chief Technology Officer, Conlis Global Inc.
Prof. S. Ganesh, Director, IIT Kanpur highlighted the importance of this MOU by commenting, “The licensing of this novel technology developed in-house that promotes bone healing and regeneration to Conlis Global is yet another significant milestone in the R&D endeavour of the Institute. It is a testament to the high quality of research at IIT Kanpur that brings real and practical benefits to people. This innovative technology is a prime example of how we can make a real difference, and we are excited to see how this technology will help people, not just in India but worldwide! I congratulate Prof. Ashok Kumar and his team”.
Dr. Sumrita Bhat, CEO of Conlis Global Inc. expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of this technology, “We are thrilled to partner with IIT Kanpur to bring this innovative solution to the market. It represents a significant step forward in treating bone and joint disorders, and we look forward to taking this to market to benefit patients worldwide.”
Prof. Tarun Gupta, Dean of Resources and Development, IIT Kanpur said, “The signing of the MOU with Conlis Global is an important landmark in our efforts to build a bridge between research & development and taking a product from the lab to the commercial stage and into the market. This will inspire us to continue to work on supporting research in various domains and helping our engineers, scientists and other talent to bring their dreams into fruition.”
The technology, “Nano Hydroxyapatite-Based Porous Polymer Composite Scaffolds for Bioactive Molecule Delivery in Musculoskeletal Regeneration” has been developed by Prof. Ashok Kumar and his team from the Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering at IIT Kanpur.
Prof. Ashok Kumar, Department of Biological Sciences & Bioengineering, IIT Kanpur, said, “The technology facilitates bone regeneration in a biocompatible manner by acting as a carrier for bone-active biomolecules, delivering them directly to the site of an implant. The material is a promising approach for reconstructing and repairing bone defects while addressing the drawbacks and complications associated with technologies that are available in the market at present.”
22, Feb 2024
Newly elected President of ICAI CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal shared his vision for the year 2024-25
Bengaluru, Thursday, 22nd February 2024: The newly elected President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal shared his vision at a press conference held in New Delhi. His vision for the year is encapsulated in the initiative “DRISHTI” which means ‘vision’ that would lead the Institute towards groundbreaking advancements in the fields of Digitalization (D), Research (R), Integrity (I), Skills (S), Handholding (H), Transparency (T), and Independence (I). He believed that the CA profession, founded on a bedrock of ethics, integrity, and independence, would serve as the cornerstone propelling India towards becoming an economic powerhouse of the world by 2047.
For the first time, ICAI has formed a committee on “AI in ICAI” to explore how AI can be leveraged for the professional development of students, members, and employees. The institute has also taken initiatives for the students by providing digitalized and recorded tools to students across the country.
CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal & CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda was elected as the new President & Vice-President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) w.e.f. February 12, 2024. With more than 4 lakh members and over 8.5 lakh students, ICAI is the largest accounting body in the world. Through its 5 Regional Councils, 175 Branches, 50 Overseas Chapters & 31 Representative Offices, the Institute is taking forward its agenda of inclusive growth & continues to add glory to the profession.
While interacting with the media CA. Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal, President, of ICAI said, “Since its inception in 1949, the Institute has grown significantly, contributing to the nation’s economic growth. With ‘Drishti’ we begin a journey to make 2024-2049, the Golden Period of the Profession. The framework not only guides the Institute but also lays the foundation for recommending standards and guidelines for green finance and audits to the government, supporting environmentally friendly activities and legislative development. With a focus on digitalization and incorporating Artificial Intelligence for the growth of the profession, we aim to integrate digital advancements into the core functionalities of ICAI, aiming to prepare a generation of professionals who are not only technologically adept but also ethically grounded and socially responsible, “DRISHTI” promises a future where ICAI leads with innovation and
integrity”.While sharing an update about the course, he emphasized that the CA Course is empowering the young population of this country, and the New Scheme of Education and Training that was launched last year on July 01 st is attracting more and more students to join the
profession. He further added, “Ethics and technology domains have been embedded in the curriculum at the final level so that aspiring CAs are equipped with the requisite competencies required in this dynamic global world”.
President ICAI also highlighted that ICAI has pioneered formulating Standards on Sustainability Reporting and shaping the ESG reporting landscape in the country. This year, too, ICAI will work towards developing guidelines and recommend standards to support and enhance green finance.
In order to create opportunities for accounting professionals abroad, ICAI has provided comments and inputs to the government on a regular basis in the area of Accounting, Bookkeeping, and Auditing services (CPC 862) in the ongoing negotiations on trade-in
services with its FTA partners – UK, Canada, and Australia. Further this year, ICAI plans to expand its global presence, which would provide a platform for Indian CAs abroad and facilitate bringing foreign investment to India. ICAI has constituted a new committee named as Committee for Aggregation of CA Firms. The mandate of this committee is to bring together the smaller firms and make them globally competant by pooling their resources. Towards strengthing infrastructure development, Presidents shared that 11 centers of excellence across the country are in the pipeline. As a socially responsible institution, ICAI is going to adopt the ‘Each One Teach One’ initiative, wherein members will mentor students for their professional development, in CA. Agarwal added.
22, Feb 2024
Call for Papers and Performances: International Performing Arts Conference at World University of Design
Mumbai / DELHI-NCR/February 22, 2024: World University of Design invites submissions of papers and performances for its upcoming International Performing Arts Conference aimed at fostering thought-provoking discussions, academic presentations, and artistic expressions contributing to the ongoing dialogue between tradition and modernity within the Indian Knowledge System. The papers and the performances will be presented on the 9th and 10th of May at the Triveni Auditorium in Delhi, the event seeks to affirm the significance of academic endeavors in the realm of performing arts.
Under the banner of its first conference ANVESHA, the university endeavors to facilitate collaborations between artists and technologists. This initiative aims to push the boundaries of creativity while preserving the essence of cultural heritage. ANVESHA is poised to serve as a platform for discussion and idea exchange, facilitating networking opportunities among researchers, artists, technologists, choreographers, and enthusiasts, both nationally and internationally. The conference will also serve to inspire young scholars and students in the field.
The conference framework emphasizes the integration of dance and/or performing arts within various creative disciplines of design, including architecture, technology, visual arts, and fashion, as well as aspects of political and social activism, heritage creation and preservation, and international geopolitics.
In the long run, the organizers seek to contribute to the ongoing discourse on tradition and modernity within the Indian Knowledge System, propel dance into the future, and promote academic research on various facets of Indian classical dance. Accepted papers will be published in an ISBN book of proceedings, and individual E-Certificates will be awarded to registered authors.
Prof.(Dr.)Parul Purohit Vats (Dean, School of Performing Arts, WUD) remarked, “In today’s world, performing arts education is a beacon of creativity, critical thinking, and cultural appreciation. Conferences like ANVESHANA blend tradition with innovation, showing how our heritage inspires modern expression. We aim to spark youth interest, showcasing diverse career paths in this dynamic field.”
The inaugural edition of the conference is organized by the Performing Arts department of the World University of Design under the guidance of an academic expert committee comprising heads of various international institutions and esteemed academicians from institutions such as the India International Performing Arts Centre Singapore, Pagrav Dance Company UK, Shoebox Arts Productions Inc. Calgary, Canada, and Center Mandapa, Paris, among others, indicating a high level of international involvement and collaboration.
22, Feb 2024
Celebrating Courage and Legacy: Dr. Monica B. Sood Brings Back Till God Wakes
New Delhi, February 22, 2024
In a poignant tribute to her late father, esteemed author Paramjit Kumar, Dr. Monica B. Sood unveils the timeless masterpiece “Till God Wakes” in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Through the collaboration with White Falcon Publishing, Dr. Sood brings back to life the gripping narrative of the Sino-Indian War in NEFA, captivating readers with tales of bravery and sacrifice.
The event commenced with a solemn minute of silence, honoring the memory of Pramajit Kumar, an Indian luminary known for his contributions as an author, philosopher, and economist. “Till God Wakes” serves as a testament to his legacy, offering readers a glimpse into the tumultuous landscape of war and the indomitable spirit of Indian heroes.
Dr. Monica B. Sood, reflecting on her father’s profound influence, shared, “Paramjit Kumar was more than just my father; he was my unconditional mentor. His legacy of courage and empathy lives on through his remarkable work.” She emphasized his fervent desire for Indian youth to appreciate the valor displayed during the Sino- Indian War, a sentiment echoed by attendees.
A highlight of the event was the screening of archival footage from 1985, featuring Paramjit Ji’s impassioned advocacy for patriotism and world peace. Angel Dsouza, Paramjit Ji’s elder granddaughter lauded the multifaceted narrative of “Till God Wakes,” inviting readers to embark on an emotional journey through its pages. The author’s meeting culminated in a book signing program, where Dr. Sood engaged with readers, imparting wisdom and inspiration to young attendees. Her empowering words resonated with all present, reinforcing the enduring significance of literature in shaping minds and hearts.
“Till God Wakes” stands as a beacon of courage and legacy, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a narrative that transcends time and borders.
22, Feb 2024
Infinity Learn by Sri Chaitanya’s Inspiring Journey Spotlighted in ‘The Indian EdTech Story
India, 22 February 2024: Infinity Learn by Sri Chaitanya – India’s only Hybrid Learning platform delivering outcome-based learning at scale, has been featured prominently in the documentary series, ‘The Indian EdTech Story,’ produced by Edstead. The series, now available and streaming on Disney + Hotstar, highlights how this EdTech has been bridging the gap between dreams and reality, achieved significant outcomes, and brought about a transformation in the educational landscape for millions of learners across India.
Our episode (number 5), titled, ‘Infinity Learn: Beyond the Horizons’, highlights the real obstacles individuals encounter in pursuit of their dreams, showcasing how diligence, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge pave the path to realizing these aspirations. The episode depicts the journey of Ujjwal Singh, Founding CEO of Infinity Learn, by Sri Chaitanya, and Vibhati Jain, Faculty (Physics) at Infinity Learn, by Sri Chaitanya – how they boldly embraced ambitious aspirations, commencing their journey from humble beginnings, confronting numerous obstacles head-on, yet triumphing over each adversity to realize their aspirations. Their mission resonates with the desire to inspire and empower learners nationwide, striving to foster measurable learning outcomes, and ensuring ‘Baccha Seekha Ki nahin?’.
“This episode resonates deep within me. It touches on my own story, the values that grounded me, and the experiences that molded my life and career in education. This industry has become my very breath, fueled by 25 years of dedication. Through this episode, we share a powerful message: whether you’re a learner or an educator, dream big, embrace challenges, and rise above them. Let’s leave a lasting mark on the world we call home. A heartfelt thank you to Edstead and Disney+ Hotstar for capturing our story and message with such beauty,” says Ujjwal Singh, Founding CEO, of Infinity Learn, by Sri Chaitanya.
Commenting on the release, Shekhar Bhattacharjee, Founder of Edstead, expressed, “The entire objective behind producing this series was to illuminate the transformation of education into an affordable and accessible realm for millions. The series not only captures the highs and lows of the EdTech sector but also underscores its ongoing commitment to creating a positive impact.”
