7, Feb 2024
ONGC signs Cooperation Agreement with TotalEnergies
Bangalore | 07February 2024: On the occasion of India Energy Week 2024, ONGC signed a Cooperation Agreement with TotalEnergies to carry out methane emissions detection and measurement campaigns using TotalEnergies’ pioneer AUSEA (Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Applications) technology.
The Cooperation Agreement was signed by Country Chair of TotalEnergies in India Dr. Sangkaran Ratnam, and ONGC Director (Exploration) Sushma Rawat on 6 February 2024.
ONGC has been inviting international technology partners to help reduce its methane emissions in India by 2030, while TotalEnergies has decided to share its AUSEA technology in an effort to pivot the whole industry towards zero methane emissions by 2030. Both companies are party to the Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC), global industry initiative launched at COP28.
ONGC joins a growing list of national companies who have signed cooperation agreements with TotalEnergies for the use of AUSEA including Petrobras in Brazil, SOCAR in Azerbaijan, Sonangol in Angola and NNPCL in Nigeria.
One-of-a-kind technology by TotalEnergies, the AUSEA gas analyzer is mounted on a drone, and was developed by TotalEnergies and its R&D partners. Consisting of a dual sensor capable of detecting methane and carbon dioxide emissions, AUSEA identifies their source at the same time. This technology marks a step change in methane emissions detection and measurement compared to traditional techniques. By allowing access to hard-to-reach emission points, on all types of industrial facilities, both offshore and offshore, AUSEA is reputed as one of the most accurate technologies in the industry.
“Our industry’s priority in the fight against climate change is to slash methane emissions from operations. Aiming for zero methane emissions by 2030 is our collective ambition as signatories of the OGDC at COP28. We are pleased to collaborate and make our AUSEA technology available to ONGC, in India, to detect, measure and eventually reduce methane emissions on their own assets”, said the Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies Patrick Pouyanné.
Commenting on the pact, ONGC Chairman and CEO Arun Kumar Singh said “In line with our collective ambitions as signatories of the OGDC at COP28, ONGC is scouting for new technologies to reduce its methane emissions by 50 % by 2027 and by 80% in 2030 compared to 2020. The introduction of the AUSEA technology will further strengthen our efforts to achieve zero methane emissions by 2038.”
TotalEnergies, a pioneer in slashing down methane emissions. After halving its methane emissions from its operated sites between 2010 and 2020, TotalEnergies set ambitious targets to step up its efforts and reduce methane emissions by a further 50% by 2025 – with the ambition to reach this target a year early, in 2024 – and by 80% in 2030, compared to 2020.
TotalEnergies is also committed to promoting the United Nations Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP 2.0) framework with other national and international oil companies. The Company has now held the OGMP Gold standard status for the three years in a row.
- 0
- By Rabindra
7, Feb 2024
4Day Workshop on Public Speaking
Public speaking is a skill, not a talent. It can be learnt easily: Public Speaking expert
Hyderabad, February 07, 2024….…… Media Junction”, a specialist school for Public Speaking announced its latest batch of 4 Day Workshop on Effective Public Speaking. The four-day session will be held from February 8th to 11th, from 6 pm to 9.30 pm. It will be held at the Premises of Media Junction at Ground Floor 4A, Parthani Towers, Golconda Cross Roads, Musheerabad, Hyderabad.
The Workshop will be conducted by public speaking enthusiasts and communications practitioner D. Ramchandram of Solus Media.
Media Junction has been the pioneer in organising this exclusive workshop on the subject uninterruptedly for the past 19 years. The workshop is targeted at Politicians, Businessmen, Startup Leaders, Corporate Executives, Professionals such as Lawyers, Doctors, Sales, Marketing, Teaching, IT Professionals and everybody and anybody.
For many, “Mike is a bomb”, informs D. Ramchandram, the public speaking trainer. And they continue to suffer all through their life. Thankfully, there is a solution to this problem. Everybody can speak well with a little bit of instruction and guidance. Anyone can master public speaking, added Ram, who has hundreds of workshops to his credit.
“Public speaking is a skill, not a talent”. It can be easily acquired. Please don’t assume that you need to be born a natural public speaker. It is a learnable skill. You need this skill to promote your business/profession to customers, and investors. You can’t outsource public speaking; as an entrepreneur, it’s up to you to be the face of your business. Speakers are leaders and leaders are speakers.
Media Junction gives you the guarantee that you will be able to speak confidently in four days. Give me the dumbest man/woman in the world, we can make him or her “say what he or she wants to say” informs Kalpana, Director of Media Junction.
The workshop teaches the art of Speech Making, Writing, Body Language, Impromptu Speeches, humorous speeches, Content Management for Speech Preparation etc and many such relevant subjects.
7, Feb 2024
Trend of Kamanewala Ghar on the rise in India
The travel bug has caught the imagination of the Indian people and we are seeing the highest figures recorded ever, in the last two to three years. Domestic tourism is seeing a steep growth trajectory as compared to foreign tourism. Travel entails huge cost and now people have realized that hotel stay contributes to a major portion of these costs. Investing in a Resort Home is the new trend that is fast catching the attention of people, where you earn attractive and regular monthly rental income from your property, with zero maintenance and at the same time also enjoy a vacation at your resort home during the year.
There are a number of factors that have contributed to this trend of letting your home earn for you. The new generation of Indians are looking at investments that give the highest returns in the shortest time frame, whilst they can still enjoy a vacation with the family; that too, a paid one.
Further elaborating on this concept Dr. Sachin Chopda, Managing Director, Pushpam Group said, “We have been running a campaign which we have aptly coined “Kamanewala Ghar” – which means a house that earns for you. This allows the investor to retain ownership of his property, earn attractive returns with zero maintenance cost, in addition to holidaying at the resort for a certain number of days in a year. So, in short, he is on a perpetual holiday with absolutely no cost to him. Most importantly, this property becomes an asset to him as it appreciates over a period of time. So, maybe after a few years down the line, if he decides to sell it, he stands to earn huge profits from the sale.”
India’s second & holiday homes, once believed to be trophy assets for the selected few, are now increasingly becoming mainstream. The market is presently sized north of USD 2.1 billion and is growing at a commendable rate of 23.6%, as per a recent research.
Investment in a resort home is a pragmatic decision that an investor makes as it offers assured and significant returns in the short and long term. Most resort homes are low cost investments but with high appreciation value. These resort homes are professionally managed wherein the investor has no maintenance cost to bear, but only stands to gain from his investment, from day one; with benefits accrued, over a period of time.
Tourism in India has got a major boost due to a number of large infrastructure projects that have improved connectivity within the country. This has resulted in people not hesitating to enjoy a holiday or even invest in a resort home of their liking, as they can now travel much faster and with greater ease, to reach their holiday destination.
Beach tourism is the most popular among places visited by tourists across the world. For people living in Mumbai and Pune, Alibaug is panning out to be the most sought-after holiday destination for a short weekend break. It is popular as it is situated on the scenic Konkan coastal town of Alibaug; just a few hours’ drive from Mumbai and ninety minutes’ drive from the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. The inauguration of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) is having a significant impact on the investment landscape for resort homes in Alibaug. This 22 km-long sea bridge has dramatically shortened the travel time between Mumbai and Alibaug by about 45 minutes, making it a highly attractive investment destination.
Pushpam Group, a major player in resort homes, is developing a resort home in Alibaug named Balibaug. It is being designed, inspired by Bali’s temples and palace architecture. This resort will consist of 2 &3 BHK luxury villas with private pool and gardens, open shower, terrace Jacuzzi, international standard interiors, sloping roofs, decorative crowns and other Balinese elements. In addition, the resort will have 20 plus amenities like 3 restaurants, spa, banquet hall, party lawn, gym, etc. The resort will employ green practices like rain water harvesting system, EV Charging station in addition to Wi-Fi facility and generation backup for its residents.
In conclusion, we can safely conclude that an investment in a resort home is a rational one, looking at the immense potential that it provides to investors and home buyers alike, over the years ahead.
7, Feb 2024
Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsava Day-3 Marks the Return to Roots
Alandi, Pune, 7 February 2024: The tone of the day was set with the Haripath written by Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Ji in a set of 28 Marathi Abhangas by 750 Warkari students organised by Geeta Pariwar. Followed by Chiranjeev Pujan, a ceremony to pay obeisance to spiritual gurus as a mark of respect.
The 2 nd day of Shrimad Bhagavad Katha Saptaha began by paying respect to all the Spiritual Gurus present. Today being the Shat Tila Ekadashi happens to be the day when Param Pujya Swami Shri Govind Giriji Maharaj was born. Kathakar Pujya Swami Shri Rajendradasji Maharaj quoted, “Persons of great significance are destined to be born on a divinely auspicious day, and Swami ji happens to be one of those greats. Today’s focus in the discourse is on the attainment of the divine through the simplest path.” He further stated, “There remains nothing else to attain in this world after the attainment of the divine.” The scriptures highlight the wisdom of our scholars, suggesting that understanding even a single syllable of the secret scriptures may take many lifetimes.
Swamiji also said, “प्रमाद ही मृत्यु है, प्रमाद को जीत लिया तो मृत्यु को जीत लिया।“ It alludes, “Carelessness is death, but if carelessness in conquered, death has been conquered.” Sharing his perception, he also added, “One who is referred to as sleeping like a log is kalyug. One who is yawning is Dwapar Yug. One who is steadfast in performing his duties is Treta Yug. One who is disposed to perform one’s duties diligently or with mastery is Satyug.
A rejuvenating atmosphere descended on the 3rd day of Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsava with the revival of the rich Guru-shishya tradition in its enriching form- The Vedshastra Samvad, an interactive debate involving many Vedic scholars from all corners of our nation. This captivating event became one of the cornerstones of the ceremony, highlighting the importance of our ancient tradition of imparting wisdom.
Vedshastra ensured the legacy of oral rendition of Vedas & scriptures carried forward. Param Pujya Swami Shri Govind Giriji Maharaj’s vision is to revive this traditional method that got concealed for various reasons over a period. It was a great experience for all present to witness this event with the presence of great scholars from across the country.
Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of recognition and accolades, the Sant Pujan ceremony took place, where revered spiritual gurus got acknowledged for their unwavering commitment towards fostering spiritual growth and community well-being. Many acclaimed Vedic Scholars who have scaled greater heights in their field of expertise were honoured as per Swamiji’s wish of felicitating the men of wisdom during the ongoing celebrations.
Kerala Governor Shri Arif Ji Mohammad Khan presided over today’s celebration, where spiritual gurus M.M. Geeta Manishi Shri Gyananandji Maharaj, Shri Lokesh Muniji Maharaj, Pujya Swami Shri Visveshwaranand Giriji Maharaj, Shri Sadanandji Maharaj, Pujya Maruti Kurekar Maharaj were felicitated by Param Pujya Shri Govind Dev Girji Maharaj and the Governor. He paid respect to all those present in this divine place Devachi Alandi to carry out the Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsava- celebrating 75 years of Swamiji.
Expressing his views, the Governor expressed, “This celebration is a celebration of wisdom, devotion and Swamiji’s mission of awakening the nation’s consciousness and power in the individual, society & universally too, and for the well-being of mankind at large. The Governor stated, “What does the legacy of our Saints says- “संतो भूमि तपसा धर्यन्ति” which means the saints sustain the land through their penance and devotion.
The day-long celebration concluded with an enchanting Kirtan Sandhya by H.B.P. Shri Chaitanya Maharaj ji Deglurkar.
Reflecting on the importance of Vedshastra Samvad, Pujya Swami Shri Govind Giriji Maharaj expressed, “It’s our age-old Guru-Shishya tradition that gave us access to the knowledge and scriptures. Our Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita, along with other ancient texts, have been transmitted through virtuous Indian roots. Vedshastra Samvad serves as a platform for exchanging
ideas and disseminating ancient wisdom, ensuring the continuity of our rich cultural legacy.”
Geeta Bhakti Amrit Mahotsava continues to be a beacon of cultural richness, celebrating the traditions that connect generations and provide profound insights into our rich Indian heritage.
7, Feb 2024
Indian Government Doubles Cybersecurity Funding from Rs 400 Cr to Rs 750 Cr 2024
The landscape of cybersecurity in India is set to undergo a significant transformation as the 2024 interim budget reflects a momentous decision by the Indian government. In a strategic move to fortify the nation’s digital defenses, the allocation for cybersecurity projects has witnessed an unprecedented surge. From a modest Rs 30 crore in 2022-2023, the budget allocation experienced a substantial leap in the 2023-2024 period, reaching Rs 400 crore. However, the most noteworthy revelation lies in the latest budget, where the Indian government has nearly doubled the allocation, elevating it to a formidable Rs 750 crore for the fiscal year 2024-2025. These substantial funds are predominantly dedicated to projects spearheaded by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
Dr. Kailash Katkar, Managing Director of Quick Heal Technologies Limited, mentioned “I applaud the government’s dedication to advancing our nation comprehensively, focusing on the pillars of demography, democracy, and diversity. The ‘Sabka Prayas’ approach promotes inclusive growth, a vital component of our progress. The doubling of the allocation for cybersecurity projects reflects a commitment towards making India ‘atamnirbhar’ in the cybersecurity sector, evident from measures like the announcement of a one lakh crore rupees interest-free loan over fifty years, which will catalyze entrepreneurship. Strengthening deep-tech technologies for defense purposes is also a step in the right direction.
The emphasis on robust Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and cutting-edge technologies, coupled with the recognition of increased digital risks, underscores the immediate need for heightened cyber safety awareness and secure digital practices. As our nation actively contributes to economic growth, the role of cybersecurity providers becomes even more crucial in ensuring holistic protection for individuals, businesses, and government enabling a digitally resilient ecosystem thereby creating cyber secure India.”
Raj Sivaraju, President APAC, Arete IR LLP added, “We appreciate the Union Government’s visionary commitment to nurturing a Golden Era for our tech-savvy youth. The substantial boost in funding for cybersecurity projects in the 2024 interim budget stands as a testament to our nation’s recognition of the pivotal role technology plays in our lives. As we embark on this journey of digital transformation, the infusion of Rs 750 crore, nearly doubling the allocation from the previous year, reaffirms our collective responsibility to fortify our cyber defenses.
In the words of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, ‘As innovation is the foundation of development,’ let us harness this financial impetus not only to secure our digital landscape but also to catalyze pioneering research in the sunrise sectors.
The increased investment underscores the government’s commitment to staying ahead of evolving cyber threats, ushering in an era where technological changes empower our nation and its citizens. A resilient digital future awaits, ensuring that our strides in cybersecurity mirror the rapid advancements in technology, safeguarding our progress for generations to come.”
As the government allocates a significantly increased budget to bolster cybersecurity initiatives, the trajectory for the nation’s digital resilience takes a promising turn. The surge from Rs 30 crore in 2022-2023 to the current allocation of Rs 750 crore in 2024-2025 underscores a clear commitment to fortifying our digital infrastructure. With the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) at the forefront, these cybersecurity projects are poised to shape a more secure and resilient digital future for India. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, this substantial investment is a testament to the government’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding our digital assets and ensuring a robust cybersecurity framework for the years to come.
7, Feb 2024
Azerbaijan Wins YCO 2024 Gold, Philippines and Nepal share Silver and Italy Bronze
Pune, 6th February 2024: The historic and grand 10th IIHM Young Chef Olympiad drew to a close at a glamorous Closing Ceremony organised in Kolkata. Azerbaijan’s Leyla Valiyeva won the coveted gold trophy. The silver was shared between Philippines’ Clifford Jeff Cadunggo Unabia and Kamal Thapa of Nepal. Italy’s Francesco Orsi lifted the bronze trophy.
At the end of seven eventful days across six cities in India, an epic edition of the world’s Biggest Culinary Battle came to a glamorous close. Connecting over 60 countries of the world, YCO24 was one of the biggest in size and scale. The Closing Ceremony was equally grand and exciting as it took place at Kolkata’s popular amusement park, Wet o Wild.
Besides the top three, YCO 2024 had a long list of special category winners. The Plate Trophy round that was held between the next best teams ranked between 11 to 20 in the competition, went to India’s Lenin Bopanna. The Kitchen Cut Management Award went to New Zealand. The Best Vegetarian Dish went to Nepal while the Best Crème Souffle a l’Orange went to Italy.
Six Best Mentor Nominee Awards were given away based on each of the mentor’s recommendations about their respective participants. The awards went to Greece, Jordan, Netherlands, Ethiopia, Botswana and Equatorial Guinea. The six Best Young Chef Ambassador Awards went to Australia, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Scotland, Sri Lanka and Nepal. Participants were also marked on Best Hygiene and Kitchen Practice maintained during competition and this award went to six countries, namely, Namibia, Portugal, England, Bulgaria, Armenia, Azerbaijan. The Best Knife Skills Award went to Thailand, Portugal, Indonesia, Bulgaria, Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Lord Bilimoria Rising Stars Award went to Namibia, Albania, Uzbekistan, Mauritius, Ireland and Oman. The Gold Global Sustainability Award went to Kenya. The Spirit of Young Chef Olympiad International Award went to Lesotho.
The Dr Bose Challenge Trophy that was introduced this year for participants who did not come in the top 20 teams, went to Kenya and Switzerland.
Organised by the International Hospitality Council (IHC) and hosted by the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), YCO 2024 was a true celebration of the spirit of One World One YCO.
YCO 2024 had a brilliant panel of esteemed judges from around the world. Led by Prof
David Foskett, OBE, Chairman of the Jury, Chef John Wood, the Founder and Director of Kitchen Cut was Chief Judge of the event. Deputy Chief Judge was Chef Rahul Akerkar, renowned Chef and Restaurateur. The panel of Jury included some famous globally famous culinary faces such as Chef Gary Maclean, National Chef of Scotland, Sicilian Chef Enzo Oliveri, pastry chef and chocolatier Sarah Hartnett, Dato’ Chef Abdul Wahab Zamzani, Celebrity Chef from Malaysia, Chef Neil Rippington, International Director, IIHM and Chef Mario Perera, Executive Chef Dorchester Collection.
YCO 2024 continued to embrace the important and significant theme of Sustainability promoting the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A special award, the Zenobia Nadirshaw Diamond Research Award went to students who had done research on the SDGs and how to achieve them to make the world a better place to live. Four awards in this category went to Kenya, Bangladesh, India and Italy.
“Preparing and organising an event of this stature needs the might of an organisation and leadership that runs a network of connected institutes across the country, manages people from different places, with an alumni base of tens of thousands and is loved by the entire world,” said Padma Shri Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, Principal Judge and Mentor, YCO.
“There are years when nothing happens and there are weeks where decades happen. That’s what happened in the pandemic. It taught us the importance of health and sustainability and brought us close to food. I am so glad that YCO has embodied both food and sustainability in this competition,” said Nakul Anand, eminent hotel an travel industry personality who is now Chairman of the YCO Global Advisory Committee.
“YCO 2024 was special because it was the 10 year. It had been a wonderful decade in which we have received incredible support from the countries, mentors, judges and everyone who was involved. We are absolutely committed to the UN SDGs and we are also proud and grateful to the UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili for his support, specially because he launched the 10th YCO by inaugurating the chef jacket that the participants are wearing this year. The Young Chef Olympiad is the greatest platform to promote Youth Culinary Diplomacy, a platform to bring the world together through the power of youth. YCO will continue to celebrate and carry forward the spirit of One World One YCO in the years to come,” said Dr Suborno Bose, Chairman, International Hospitality Council (IHC) and Founder, YCO.
7, Feb 2024
Sony World Photography Awards
The World Photography Organisation and Sony India are delighted to reveal Mitu Kajaria as India’s National Award winner for the Sony World Photography Awards 2024. The National Awards program is an initiative set up by the World Photography Organisation and Sony to support local photographic communities around the world, with 54 countries taking part this year.
Over 395,000 images from over 220 countries and territories were submitted to the Sony World Photography Awards 2024.
Mitul was anonymously selected by judges for his photograph Child Sleeping at a Construction Site entered the Portraiture category of the Open competition. The young child of a daily wage construction worker napping in a makeshift bed at a construction site.
PHOTOGRAPHER’S BIOGRAPHY
Mitul is a photographer, curator, and educator with a background in Architecture, currently training in Psychology & Psychodrama. His work orbits around vital themes: mental health, diverse archives, and the interplay between architecture, urban landscapes, and humanity. He feels his identity and pursuits stem from the crossroads of his architectural foundation, his commitment to mental health advocacy, and over a decade of artistic practice.
Commenting on his win, Kajaria said “It is always a feeling of great satisfaction to be validated for your work. By choosing my photograph as a winning image, the Sony World Photography Awards has provided a boost to my photography practice”.
As India’s National Award winner, Mitul Kajaria receives Sony digital imaging equipment and will be included in the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition and book.
The overall winners in the Student, Youth, Open and Professional competitions of the Sony World Photography Awards 2024 will be announced on 18 April 2024 and will go on display as part of the exhibition at Somerset House, London (19 April-6 May 2024).
This year’s National and Regional Awards winners are:
Bangladesh – Mahdin Shafiq Omi
Cambodia – Davuth Van
Egypt – Karim Osama
Germany – Natalie Strohmaier
India – Mitul Kajaria
Indonesia – Dhiky Aditya
Japan – Kenichiro Hagiwara, Winner
Japan – Hajime Hirano, 2nd Place
Japan – Masayuki Hirata, 3rd Place
Republic of Korea – Lee Jongkee, Winner
Republic of Korea – Seongmin Park, 2nd Place
Republic of Korea – Jaeeun Kim, 3rd Place
Kuwait – Mohammed Mirza
Malaysia – Lim Chien Ting
Myanmar – Kyaw Htet
Nepal – Bibek Kunwar
Nigeria – Onyekachi Iloh
Pakistan – Muhammad Saddique Inam
Philippines – Reginald James Lorico
Poland – Barbara Szydlowska
Qatar – Abdulla AL-Mushaifri
Saudi Arabia – Yasser Alomari
Singapore – Ju Shen Lee
South Africa – Lourens Durand
Sri Lanka – Wasiri Gajaman
Taiwan – Chia Jung Chou
Thailand – Thanayu Jongwattanasilkul
Turkey – Okan Yilmaz
United Arab Emirates – Vinaya Mohan
United States – Pascal Fouquet
Vietnam – Tran Tuan Viet
EUROPEAN REGIONAL AWARDS
Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania & Moldova:
Tomáš Havrda (Czech Republic), Winner
Cziráki Orsolya Boglárka (Hungary), Shortlist
Diana Morozovskaia (Moldova), Shortlist
Diana Buzoianu (Romania), Shortlist
Michal Zahornacky (Slovakia), Shortlist
Latvia, Estonia & Lithuania:
Viktors Rimarevs (Latvia), Winner
Raido Nurk (Estonia), Shortlist
Ieva Lozuraitytė (Lithuania), Shortlist
Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Bosnia & Herzegovina:
Ana Skobe (Slovenia), Winner
Danilo Kreso (Bosnia & Herzegovina), Shortlist
Robert Marić (Croatia), Shortlist
Suer Celina (Kosovo), Shortlist
Ivana Todorović (Montenegro), Shortlist
Tijana Morača (Serbia), Shortlist
Cyprus, Greece, Bulgaria & North Macedonia:
Vladimir Karamazov (Bulgaria), Winner
Elena Georgiou (Cyprus), Shortlist
Stefanos Papaioannou (Greece), Shortlist
Vlatko Rafeski (North Macedonia), Shortlist
LATIN AMERICA REGIONAL AWARDS
Marcos Azulay (Argentina), Winner
Jair Fernando Coll Rubiano (Colombia), 2nd Place
Marco Chacana (Chile), 3rd Place
Reynaldo San Martín (Bolivia), Shortlist
Alexa Obando (Costa Rica), Shortlist
Wilfrido Enriquez (Ecuador), Shortlist
Juan Pablo Méndez Garzona (Guatemala), Shortlist
Daniel Heras (Mexico), Shortlist
Connie France Calderon Martel (Peru), Shortlist
7, Feb 2024
82°E enters Body Care, unveils new campaign
Mumbai,7th February 2024
82°E, a self-care brand co-founded by Deepika Padukone and Jigar Shah, has announced its entry into the Body Care category with a range of body care products including Body Cleansers, Milk, and Lotion.
The launch campaign has been conceived, created, and executed by 82°E’s Agency on Record, Tilt Brand Solutions – a part of Quotient Ventures.
This launch campaign – Art of Leisure (Clip 1, Clip 2, Instagram), emphasizes how body care can become a nourishing, holistic practice for the mind and skin. The communication invites consumers to practice their favorite acts of leisure, an important aspect of self-care — joyfully and without guilt.
82°E’s entry into body care follows several successful product launches in skincare. The launch campaign further extends the brand’s point of view that skincare needs to be simplified.
Launched in November 2022, 82°E is on a mission to make the practice of self-care a simple, joyful and effective part of one’s everyday life. Over the past year, 82°E has built a strong foothold in the skincare category by focusing on simple yet high-performance routines for different skin types while driving the message of overall self-care—an extension of the co-founders’ commitment to well-being, emphasizing the simplification of skincare, as its core proposition.
Speaking about the campaign, Keerthana Ramakrishnan, Chief Marketing Officer, 82°E said, “While Body Care is an extension of our skincare category, it offers a fresh new experience to our consumers. It was crucial that we communicated our intention of self-care through the campaign thought of Art of Leisure to our consumers, in an impactful manner. We wanted them to come on the journey with us; to take their self-care a step further with this new launch.”
For the brand, this campaign marks a crucial milestone of going above the line for the first time, with the aim of increasing reach in key markets across the country.
Speaking of the partnership, T Gangadhar, Group Chief Executive Officer, Quotient Ventures said, “We are thrilled to be partnering with 82°E to build a brand that is synonymous with self-care. The body care launch campaign is the first such initiative to that end. We are confident that, together, we can create a brand narrative that will deeply resonate with people and inspire them to prioritize their own wellbeing.”
7, Feb 2024
AIC T-Hub selects 20 startups to Drive Healthcare Innovation in India
India, 7th Feb 2024: T-Hub, India’s leading startup incubator has today announced the launch of the new cohort of the AIC T-Hub Healthcare program, aimed at fostering technological advancements and innovations within the healthcare sector across India. The program will host 20 startups carefully selected for their groundbreaking solutions in the healthcare ecosystem.
The selected startups in the upcoming cohort will be addressing critical challenges in Digital Health, Wearables, and Hospital Systems. The program’s structure involves a 12-week intensive curriculum with mentorship from healthcare thought leaders, doctors, and industry experts. The program offers a range of benefits to startups, including support for product development, assistance with commercialization plans, market understanding, business plan refinement, and access to resources essential for growth. The program also provides access to a prototyping lab equipped with healthcare sensors.
Startups were shortlisted based on criteria such as MVP, founder experience, and business model viability. Amongst the selected startups are- EXSEGEN GENOMICS RESEARCH PRIVATE LIMITED, Pratibha Healthkon Private Limited, RudrastraApptech Pvt Ltd, Medstown, Diagnosis, MolVerse Pvt Ltd – Accelerating Molecular Discoveries, MicroHeal Wellness Pvt Ltd, MEDICOINNOVEX TECHNOLOGIES LLP, ASPIRE HEALTH AND MEDICARE PVT. LTD, Swarupa Narsimha Healthcare (OPC) Pvt Ltd, Cliniv Health Tech, SC Health care Logistics Pvt Ltd, Incra Soft Private Limited, LIV Emergency Healthcare, Terrablue, Medaid, Aarogya ID, NEORDENT HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS PVT LTD
Mahankali Srinivas Rao (MSR), CEO, T-Hub, said, ” With the launch of our fourth AIC T-Hub Healthcare cohort, we are taking another significant step towards advancing healthcare innovation in India. The startups selected for this program represent the future of healthcare technology. We are committed to providing them with a robust ecosystem, expert mentorship, and the necessary resources to drive their growth and impact. Together with AIC T-Hub, we look forward to witnessing groundbreaking solutions that will shape the landscape of healthcare in our country”.
Rajesh Adla, CEO, AIC T-Hub Foundation, said, ” This cohort marks a pivotal moment for healthcare innovation in India. Our startups have an unprecedented opportunity to redefine the healthcare landscape, and the AIC T-Hub Healthcare program is the catalyst for that transformation. We aim to not only support these startups but to empower them to think beyond boundaries. Together with T-Hub, we are creating a platform where innovation meets impact, ultimately contributing to India’s emergence as a global healthcare hub”.
Throughout the program, AIC T-Hub will also support selected startups with investment opportunities, grants, customer pilots with hospitals, clinical validation, and access to a prototyping lab with healthcare sensors. Over the past three cohorts, the AIC T-Hub Healthcare program has played a pivotal role in supporting 45 startups, enabling them to secure approximately 10 Crores in investments and facilitating 21 market pilots with various hospitals. The program’s impact is underscored by the success stories of startups achieving USFDA approvals and raising multiple rounds of funds.
Looking ahead, AIC T-Hub plans to initiate partnership joint programs with hospitals, further solidifying its commitment to shaping the growth and innovation of the healthcare industry in India. To date, the AIC T-Hub Healthcare program has impacted 60 mentors, collaborated with 30 hospitals and completed four successful cohorts.
6, Feb 2024
Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council
National, 5th February 2024: Come and fall in love with Design once again this Valentine’s Day! The Year’s biggest Wearable Artworks & Crafts Design Fest will be celebrated at The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council’s Artisan Design Jewellery Awards 2024 on 12-13 February at the Ice Factory, Ballard Estate in South Mumbai. Among many design themes, ‘Jewellery as Art’ will take centre-stage at the two-day event held on the eve of Valentine’s Day to celebrate people’s love and passion for art, design and jewellery. The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) is the apex body of trade in India, supported by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
The final judging round for the 7th edition of The Artisan Awards 2024, Powered by GIA, was held on 22nd January, 2024. Of the 20 captivating and well-finished jewellery pieces, the jury picked out 6 winners from the two unconventional themes of The Artisan Awards 2024: ‘Unusual Materials’ and ‘Objet Trouvé.’ This edition of The Artisan Awards received more than 600 entries from around the world including India, Canada, USA, Bahrain, Egypt, Dubai, and Pakistan.
The largest-ever congregation of luminaries and aesthetes from the world of Arts, Crafts & Design; curators, art gallery owners and patrons; art school teachers, deans and students; socialites, celebrities, connoisseurs, architects, painters and sculptors; along with jewellery designers (experienced and young) will grace GJEPC’s Artisan Jewellery Awards 2024 gallery showcase at Ice Factory. The discussions will revolve around two exciting and unconventional themes ‘Unusual Materials’ and ‘Objet Trouvé’ of the 7th edition of GJEPC’s The Artisan Jewellery Awards 2024.
The first theme, ‘Objet Trouvé’ (Found Objects) explores art crafted from visible yet frequently altered objects that are atypical yet serve as art materials due to their non-art function.
A ‘found object’, whether it’s natural, man-made, or even just a fragment, is preserved due to an inherent connection by the artist. It can be treated as a work of art in itself, and as a muse for inspiration.
The idea was to design a piece of jewellery that depicts the essence of ‘Objet Trouvé’ by taking an object of your past and reimagining it in a modern form. Examples of ‘found objects’ could include vintage poker chips, antique coins, collected shells, vintage Venetian glass beads, buttons, and beachcombed shells.
The second theme, ‘Unusual Materials’ encouraged designers to create a dialogue between the familiar and the unexpected by combining contrasting materials with at least 50% precious materials. Unusual materials could include cement, titanium, wood, porcelain, bamboo, slate, meteorite, glass, recycled plastic, leather and more.
Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, stated, “GJEPC’s vision extends beyond the conventional, aiming to redefine the landscape of jewellery design. Through the Artisan Jewellery Design Awards competition, India seeks to elevate itself and position as the global premier design hub, aligning with the government’s campaign of Design in India. Through this design competition, GJEPC reaffirms its commitment to encourage an environment that will nurture the creative spark within designers.”
Milan Chokshi, Convener, Promotion & Marketing, GJEPC, adds, “Each year, we strive to introduce a distinctive theme, challenging participants by collaborating with curators to elevate their engagement. Over the past seven years, the Artisan Awards have assumed increasing significance globally, with India recognising them as the most coveted accolade. This prestigious award serves as a driving force, inspiring designers, budding students, and manufacturers to create thematic jewels at the highest echelon. The quality of production within this thematic framework is truly remarkable.”
The esteemed jury comprised Alice Cicolini, renowned UK jewellery designer; Biren Vaidya, Managing Director, The Rose Group; Payal Singhal, Fashion Designer; Apoorva Deshingkar, GIA India – Senior Director of Education and Market Development; and Toktam Shekarriz, Dubai-based jewellery designer.
The technical jury comprised of Devinder Layal (Jewellery Artiste and educationist), Meenal Choksi (Head of Design, Moksh Fine Unseen Jewellery); Sushama Kalzunkar Sawant (PD & Merchandising Head, Dia Gold Creations); Janki Choksi (Founder, Janki Choksi Designs); Gunjan Sapra (COO & Head of Department, Jewellery Designs, International Institute of Gemology, and a GIA Instructor) to honour the best and most talented jewellery designers.
Alice Cicolini said, “As a jewellery designer, the prospect of an award process like this is truly invigorating. I find great excitement in witnessing competitions that encourage designs using more unconventional materials and explore global trends. The freedom afforded to India’s young designers through these themes is commendable and inspiring. Personally, there are a couple of pieces from today that stand out to me as not only intriguing designs but also impeccably crafted.
“Having worked in India for nearly two decades, I can attest that it stands as one of the most extraordinary nations for jewellery production, boasting incredible craftsmanship. Witnessing the remarkable work emerging from this country is always a source of excitement. Moreover, it is refreshing to see young jewellery designers break free from traditional constraints, allowing their imaginations to take flight—an approach actively encouraged by institutions like this one. Design, being a commercial art form, requires assurance that there is a market for innovative work.”
Payal Singhal was fascinated by the exploration of innovative materials and the creation of pieces that could endure for generations. Reflecting on India’s design and manufacturing talent, Singhal noted, “The Artisan Awards showcase a remarkable standard. The ability to work with challenging materials and produce versatile, aesthetically pleasing, and finely crafted jewellery is a testament to the high level of expertise present in our country. The innovation displayed at the awards reinforces my belief that India possesses superior capabilities in terms of design, quality, and finishing.
“As for elevating jewellery into wearable art, initiatives like The Artisan Awards play a crucial role. By encouraging designers to view jewellery as an artistic expression rather than just ceremonial or status symbols, we encourage a shift towards wearable art. Supporting and motivating young designers and jewellery brands to embrace this perspective will contribute to the evolution of jewellery as a form of artistic expression rather than merely a complement to attire or a symbol of status.”
