6, Feb 2024
Iex Power Market Update, January24
Mumbai, 06 February 2024: Indian Energy Exchange, India’s premier electricity exchange, achieved the highest ever total volumes in January 2024, reaching 10,893 million units (MU) – marking a 26.1% year-over-year increase. This volume comprises of 9,137 MU from the conventional power market segment, 236 MU from the green market segment, and 15.20 lakh Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) (equivalent to 1,520 MU).
According to government data published in January’24, the country’s energy consumption reached 133.8 BUs, representing a 6 % increase on a year-on-year basis. The Market Clearing Price in Day Ahead Market during January ‘24 was Rs. 5.83/unit, down approximately 6% year-on-year, due to easing supply side constraints. Increased electricity consumption coupled with easing supply side constraints led to an increase in the volumes of electricity traded on the Exchange which is expected to continue going forward.
ELECTRICITY MARKET: DAY-AHEAD, TERM- AHEAD & REAL-TIME MARKET
The Day-Ahead Market (DAM) volume was at 5,540 MU in January ’24, as compared to 4,893 MU in January ’23, registering an increase of 13.2% YoY.
The Real-Time Electricity Market (RTM) volume increased to 2,380 MU in January ‘24, from 2102 MU in January’23, registering an increase of 13.2 % YoY.
Day Ahead Contingency and Term-Ahead Market (TAM), comprising of contingency, daily & weekly and monthly contracts up to 3 months, traded 1,217 MU during January ’24, higher by 34.9% on YoY basis.
The longer duration contracts have demonstrated steady growth throughout the year. Notably, with this growth momentum, volumes exceeded 10 BU mark on an annual basis (year-to-date) in FY’24, increasing by more than 600% YoY.
Indian Energy Exchange Ltd
GREEN MARKET: GREEN DAY-AHEAD & GREEN TERM-AHEAD MARKET
IEX Green Market, comprising the Green Day-Ahead and Green Term-Ahead Market segments, achieved 236 MU volume during January’24.
The Green Day-Ahead Market (G-DAM) achieved 210 MU volume during the month, with a weighted average price of Rs 5.87 per unit. The segment saw participation from 189 market participants during the month.
The Green Term-Ahead Market (G-TAM) achieved 26 MU volume in January ‘24, with average monthly price of Non-Solar- Rs 6.57/unit.
RENEWABLE ENERGY CERTIFICATE MARKET (REC MARKET)
A total of 15.20 lac RECs (equivalent to 1520 MU) were traded in the trading sessions held on 10 th January ’24 and 31 st January’24, at a clearing price of Rs. 360/REC. This is the highest REC volume in the current financial year.
REC Price on the exchange has been experiencing a downward trend and is currently at its lowest levels this financial year. This presents an opportunity for obligated consumers (Discoms, Open Access Consumers and Captive Power Producers) to meet their Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO) at more affordable rates.
The next REC trading sessions at the Exchange are scheduled on 14 th February’24 and 28 th February’24.
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- By Rabindra
6, Feb 2024
Must Include Essentials in Your Grocery Basket for Preparing the Perfect Meal
Cooking is an art that requires preparation and attention to create that perfect soul-touching food that brings the entire family together. Food can almost act as a time capsule capturing all the beautiful memories we share together. Thus, it is important to get it as close to perfect as possible. Before embarking on a culinary journey down memory lane, it’s crucial to make sure you are well-equipped to prepare your ingredients so that your food not only tastes divine but is also the safest to consume.
Komal Verma, a Mom Influencer from Bangalore vouched for this notion and said, “My grocery list is humungous since I have to make sure I incorporate a lot of nutritional value into my meals to nourish my children. I make sure that I pre-plan the list so that I add all my essential items in my grocery basket. Over the years I have realized that it is not enough to make the perfect meal. We need to pay a closer attention to the fruits and vegetables we purchase because in todays day and age we can never be sure if the produce we buy is truly free of contaminants. The level of contamination now is high enough that the process of cooking is not enough to get rid of it. We must go the extra mile to make sure our ingredients are truly safe for consumption. For the safety of my family, I have incorporated my trusted fruit and vegetable wash, ITC Nimwash, as an important step in my meal prep routine and I strongly recommend you do so as well. Its 100% natural action assures the effective removal of pesticides and 99.9% germs from fruits & vegetables. Hence, I most certainly recommend adding ITC Nimwash to your grocery basket.”
We will be recommending must-have essentials in your grocery basket that will help you prepare not only delicious but healthy meals.
Spicing things up: Spices are the soul of a dish. It can make or break the entire flavour, so it is of utmost importance to start there. Having the strongest flavours in your arsenal will be your aid to make your cooking stand out from the mundane. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different combinations of spices to finally create your own signature style.
Freshest of fresh ingredients: Before you start cooking, list down all the necessary ingredients you will need so that you don’t have to waste time whilst you are in the midst of cooking. Analyze all that you might need based on all the dishes your family enjoys and enjoy the process of cooking a hearty meal of them. Try to maintain a list so that you never forget any ingredients before you head out for your grocery shopping.
Fruits and vegetable wash: Most often than not, fruits and vegetables sometimes contain pesticides and germs, thus, washing them with a fruit and vegetable wash is a practice which needs to be inhabited. Rinsing your fruits and vegetables with water is no longer enough, to truly bring out the health benefits of fruits and vegetables it is best to opt for a 100% natural action fruit and vegetable wash like ITC Nimwash which can get rid of 99.9% of germs and pesticides.
Feast for the eyes: Most of us see plating as a practice only necessary for culinary experts. It can’t be further from the truth. How we present our food greatly impacts on the overall experience of eating more than you might think. Contrary to what you might think, it is possible to elevate your dining experience without breaking the bank or spending hours making it look artistic. Simple changes like upgrading your cutlery from steel to ceramic might make all the difference. The food you make requires time and skill, don’t be shy to present it in the best way possible to showcase your creation.
By making sure you are equipped with all these essentials you can be confident that your cooking is not only delectable but also safe and nutritious. It is a small yet significant step towards making cooking a joyous and worry-free everyday activity. These steps help with safeguarding your health and enhancing your experience of making all your favorite meals.
6, Feb 2024
Pantomath Capital Advisors Pvt Ltd appoints Mr. Ajay Jain as Managing Partner
New Delhi, Monday, February 6, 2024: Pantomath Capital Advisors Private Limited, a leading mid-market investment bank and financial services house has appointed the Former Executive Director of Centrum Capital, Mr. Ajay Jain as Managing Partner, Investment Banking. In this strategic role, Mr. Ajay Jain will lead Business Development vertical of the Investment Banking Division at Pantomath, bringing over two decades of invaluable experience to drive the Group’s strategic initiatives.
Mr. Ajay Jain is a Chartered Accountant with an Executive MBA and Independent Director certification, having over 25 years of leadership experience. Formerly Chairman & MD at Monal Capital (P) Ltd. and Executive Director at Centrum Capital, his expertise spans across sectors such as BFSI, FMCG, auto & auto ancillaries, education, real estate & infrastructure, energy, logistics, metal, textiles, pharma, chemical and building materials.
Mr. Ajay Jain excels in fundraising, M&A, wealth management, and business restructuring, contributing significantly to renowned companies over the last two decades, including Centrum Capital, Sun Capital, Birla Group, Man Industries, and Lloyds Steel.
Mr. Ajay Jain is recognized with CFO Awards (2011-2014), BFSI Awards (2019-2023), Excellence in Leadership Award (2023), and “CEO with Highest Quality Orientation” award (2023).
Mr. Mahavir Lunawat, Managing Director, said, “We are glad to welcome Mr. Ajay Jain to lead Business Development vertical of the Investment Banking Division at Pantomath. His extensive experience in diverse financial functions shall be a guiding force to the team. We look forward to leveraging his expertise to drive our strategic growth initiatives further”.
On this occasion, Mr. Ajay Jain, Managing Partner, Investment Banking- Pantomath Capital Advisors, said, “I am very much delighted to be part of Pantomath Group. Pantomath is very diversified financial services Group with global presence. It is one stop solution to financial needs of client such as investment (broking, wealth management, investing in our own AIF), equity fund raises (IPO, QIP, Rights Issue, PE), M&A. Each business is supported with in-depth research & market intelligence. Pantomath has focused approach to make entrepreneur & support team members in achieving it. I am sure with my learning of last 25 years I could be instrumental in exponential growth of the Group across business verticals”.
6, Feb 2024
Redcliffe Labs’ first campaign for Cervical Cancer Prevention Awareness…
India, February 06th, 2024: In a dedicated effort to champion women’s health, Redcliffe Labs, a leading omnichannel diagnostics provider in India, launched a need-of-the-hour wellness campaign, ‘Be Your Own Sheroes- Learn, Prevent, Screen’ during Cervical Cancer Month. The month-long campaign, initiated in January 2024, was committed to illuminating the importance of early detection and preventive measures against cervical cancer. The initiative was conducted on a pan-Indian scale and strives to empower women to manage their health proactively. It aimed to build a healthier and more informed Bharat, where each woman is the hero of her health and well-being. The campaign has reached over 5 Million people in 220+ cities across India with over 75% engagement rate, creating a long-lasting impact on the importance of early detection and preventive measures against cervical cancer.
In the last week of October 2023, when more than 35 senior doctors and researchers were present, there was a significant discussion on the rising health concern in India- Cervical Cancer as the number of cases increased. Every year, over 123907 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and for 77348, it proves to be fatal. In India, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women.The country accounts for 25% of deaths across the globe due to cervical cancer, primarily due to a lack of effective screening and access to timely treatment. January is globally dedicated to raising cervical cancer awareness, and Redcliffe Labs took the initiative to amplify awareness in India.
The campaign was designed to equip women with knowledge about the risk factors, symptoms, and screening options like HPV and pap smear tests available for cervical cancer, fostering a proactive approach to their well-being. Moreover, getting health checkups for cervical cancer is very feasible and cost-effective as it is required once in three years. Also, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 announced the government’s plans to focus on vaccination against cervical cancer for girls aged 9 to 14 as part of her Interim Budget 2024.
Dr Sohini Sengupta, Medical Laboratory Director at Redcliffe Labs, says, “Since 88% of working women in India are not vaccinated against cervical cancer, the need for our ‘Be Your Own Sheroes’ campaign becomes even more evident. Also, the survival rate in stage I cervical cancer can increase by up to 90% with a timely diagnosis and the right treatment at the right time. This highlights the profound impact of early detection and preventive measures. Our mission with the campaign is to increase awareness among women about the importance of regular screenings and vaccinations, empowering them to take proactive steps in their health journey. By doing so, we aim to foster a future where cervical cancer is not only treatable but preventable, creating a healthier and more informed Bharat.”
As part of the campaign, Redcliffe Labs actively engaged with individuals to raise awareness among women about the importance of regular screenings and vaccinations for prevention. A combination of online campaigns across social media channels and on-the-ground health camps is being implemented. They have been conducting webinars and live sessions with experienced oncologists and gynecologists across digital media platforms, as well as hosting offline awareness camps across India. Through the campaign, Redcliffe Labs successfully bridged the information gap, ensuring that women are equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and continue to do so for a Healthier Bharat.
6, Feb 2024
Anoop Jalota reached Pink City Jaipur with the flag of Hindutva
Jaipur: one of the most organized cities of India, has become the center of discussion these days. Why not, tomorrow i.e. on 4th February, around 1 lakh people from 18 countries have come here to participate in the marathon. Bhajan emperor Anoop Jalota has reached Jaipur, famous as the Pink City of India, to promote his upcoming film Hindutva. Talking about the film Hindutva, bhajan emperor Anoop Jalota said that this film adorned with his acting and bhajans will be released on Mask TV OTT platform on 9th February. Anoop Jalota will be seen playing an important role in this film. The film Hindutva is based on the story of a generation that has no attachment to the disintegration of its culture, this generation does not know how dire its future can be if its basic identity is erased. In the film Hindutva, the real meaning of pseudo-secularism and Hindutva has been explained. In which a girl deviates from her religion and falls into the clutches of a boy of another religion, who later regrets his actions and a boy from his college tries to bring her on the right path. This is the story of Hindutva in which complete integration of religion, morality, dedication, revenge, culture, and harmony will be seen.
Anju Bhatt and Chiranjeevi, producers of the film Hindutva, which is going to be streamed on February 9 on Mask TV OTT platform, are saying that the presence of the Mask TV team in the Jaipur Marathon dedicated to the consecration of Ram Temple, the symbol of our national consciousness, is a symbol of the entire Hindutva. It will be a proud moment for the team and us. Bhajan Samrat Anoop Jalota, who played the lead role in the film Hindutva, Pandit Suresh Mishra, organizer of this AU Jaipur Marathon, lead actor of the film Ashish Sharma, producer of the film Chiranjeevi Bhatt, channel producer Mansi Bhatt of Mask TV and writer-director Karan Razdan of the film, Sanjay Bhatt, Sanjay Bhushan were talking to media persons in Patiyala Jaipur today.
6, Feb 2024
Tourism, Telecom/ISP, and BFSI sectors witness growth, budget allocations to further increase talent demand
Mumbai, February 06, 2024 – foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME), India’s leading talent platform, published the foundit Insights Tracker (fit), presenting the latest findings on hiring trends for January 2024.
According to the latest tracker, the hiring activity across sectors has gradually increased, showcasing a 3% month-on-month growth in hiring. Although, on a year-on-year (YoY) scale, the overall index reflected a 5% decline, the hiring trend in the past months has been positive. The index progressed from 255 in December 2023 to 262 in January 2024. With the announcement of the Interim Budget 2024, the employment outlook for the Indian job market remains optimistic, with huge potential for growth and economic progress in the months to come. Across diverse sectors including Travel & Tourism, Telecom/ISP, BFSI, and Logistics, Courier/Freight/Transport, there has been consistent and positive momentum in hiring activities. This collective effort from various industries has resulted in a noteworthy 5% overall growth in job posting activity observed over the past three months, indicating a robust recovery in employment opportunities.
Offering a hiring overview for January 2024, Sekhar Garisa, CEO, foundit (previously Monster APAC & ME), a Quess company, said, “The Interim Budget 2024 has identified the acceleration of growth and job creation as key priorities for economic development, while undoubtedly reiterating the need for Indian youth to be skilled and employable. Through our tracker, we could trace the steady growth of the tourism industry, which aligns with global trends and the government’s interests. The budget’s focus on developing iconic tourist destinations and promoting spiritual tourism aligns with the increasing demand for unique and immersive travel experiences. This forward-thinking approach aligns perfectly with the evolving trends we observed at foundit, where the travel and tourism sector has seen an impressive 21% year-on-year hiring growth. We also feel that upskilling initiatives should be encouraged as it will not only empower the workforce but also align the recruitment industry with the evolving demands of the digital era. Overall, we anticipate more stability and growth in the coming months, creating new job prospects in the market.”
Broadband penetration and GDP growth drive job spikes in Telecom/ISP and BFSI sector
On a month-on-month basis, the Telecom/ISP, BFSI, and Logistics, Courier/Freight/Transport sectors showed a 5% increase in job postings. The steady growth trajectory showcased by these sectors speaks volumes about the untapped potential of these industries to act as a key driver for employment generation, economic growth, and infrastructural development. With policies around the wider adoption of broadband, the introduction of 5G services, and the relaxation in GST, the Telecom/ISP sector will further boost in the coming months. The banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector has always been fundamental to economic development, serving as a key player in capital allocation, risk management, and the promotion of financial inclusivity. With the country’s GDP poised for growth, the BFSI sector is a key facilitator, positioned to thrive alongside the overall economic expansion. Additionally, the advancement and integration of technology into various sectors have only fostered sustainable growth across the country.
The year started positively, with many previously lagging sectors having recovered and showcased an optimistic outlook for the future. The travel & tourism sector’s post-pandemic rebound was remarkable and has strongly contributed to the Indian economy. On a MoM basis, the sector (6%) showed the maximum increase in job postings. Considering the recent budget allocations given to the tourism sector and with the support from Government initiatives such as ‘Swadesh Darshan’ and ‘Dekho Apna Desh’, India is looking ahead to create a more balanced and accessible tourism ecosystem. The country’s scenic landscapes, diverse cultures, and historical wonders lay the platter for the sector to perform well.
Southern cities, Chennai and Hyderabad lead in hiring; northern cities report third
Chennai stands out with a remarkable 9% MoM increase in hiring, potentially attributed to the setting up of numerous manufacturing units in the state and business expansion plans implemented by corporations who wish to expand to southern states. Chennai is also an important centre for international shipping routes, enhancing its accessibility and connectivity.
Apart from Chennai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru, known as the IT hubs, experienced a 5% and 3% month-on-month rise in hiring activity, respectively. Tech talent recruitment has been largely dominated by Bengaluru, followed by Hyderabad. It was also noted that even the non-tech industries have started adopting technology for efficiency. Following suit, Baroda showcased a 5% increase in job opportunities, and the cities Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Pune, and Mumbai maintained a relatively stable hiring environment with a 2% increase in hiring in each city.
Meanwhile, cities, including Kolkata, Kochi, and Chandigarh, faced declining hiring percentages, dropping by (-1%), (-2%), and (0%) respectively. However, the subtle decline in other cities only signifies a muted growth in the job market.
Legal, Marketing & Communications Job Roles Drive 7% Growth in Hiring
Job roles in legal, marketing, and communications topped the list of job functions with a 7% increase in online hiring activity. Despite the global headwinds and geopolitical tensions over the past year, the Indian economy has remained resilient with the continued adoption of new-age technologies. This rise underscores the industry’s increasing reliance on experts who can navigate the complex landscape of digital marketing and communication tactics. Considering the global banking crisis and the unprecedented wave of employee layoffs, most firms are still in a wait-and-watch mode. However, hiring for GCCs and Indian enterprises, especially for job roles including Sales & Business Development (2%), HR and Admin (2%), and Finance & Accounts (1%), have been positive. Professionals with a blend of financial expertise and technological acumen are always particularly sought after.
There was a downward trend in hiring for Purchase/Logistics/Supply chain (-3%) job roles, followed by Engineering/Production (-2%), Customer Service (-2%), and Senior Management positions (-2%). This month, the demand for Hospitality & Travel jobs, Software, Hardware, Telecom, and Healthcare job roles were moderate.
Senior and mid-senior level professionals see a downturn in hiring
In the current job market, characterised by a global economic slowdown, senior and mid-senior level professionals with 7+ years of experience witnessed a downturn trend in hiring. However, freshers with 0 to 3 years of experience and younger professionals with 4-6 years of experience have showcased subdued growth.
Hybrid work model trend continues to prevail
The year 2023 introduced the concept of hybrid flexibility for front-line workers, especially in Healthcare. Organisations encouraged Pre-emptive relaxation, aimed at sustaining emotional resilience and performance amongst employees. While many organisations witnessed their employees ‘quiet quitting,’ many corporates also flipped the script by adopting ‘quiet hiring strategies, a method to acquire fresh skills and capabilities without the need for expanding their full-time employee base.
The data suggests an almost similar trend in 2024 when compared to 2023, the hybrid work model is still prevalent. Although we are in the midst of an employer-centric market due to the global economic slowdown, the employees still choose flexibility and better work-life balance. According to the current figures, 21% of jobs account for hybrid work and a mere 9% for WFH while the job seekers seeking hybrid and remote job opportunities are still 44% and 17% respectively.
The IT sector, which holds the highest share of remote jobs on foundit continues to lead, contributing 44% of both permanent and temporary remote job postings online. The breakdown comprises 31% for hybrid roles and 13% for fully remote positions, experiencing a notable 14% decline on a year-over-year basis. As organizations navigate the evolving work landscape, the growing emphasis on workplace flexibility has sparked discussions around the adoption of a four-day work week as well, indicating a broader shift towards innovative approaches to work-life balance.
6, Feb 2024
Post Budget Quote For Healthcare 2024
Quote by, Mr. Shivam Dixit, Co-Founder and CEO of Counsel India
In India, mental health issues are common, but their story is often hidden by cultural differences, stigmas, and complex interplay between socioeconomic circumstances. In India, mental health is the most ignored factor that contributes to suicide and Depression. This problem is occurring because there are now only 7–10 lakh counselors in the country, and over 50 lakh will be needed in the next year. A 12.6% rise from the Union Budget 2023–24, which improved India’s health sector, was allotted to the healthcare sector in 2023 (rs. 89,155 crs). The health budget is reviewed and dedicated to enhancing the health sector. It is evidence of a dedication to developing resilient minds. Funding the institutions that provide psychology courses is an investment that would be beneficial to people’s well-being.
As we channel allocation of finance towards Education and mental health treatment will be helpful for the common people suffering from mental health. A well-supported health budget that will be attentive to mental health signifies our recognition of the interconnectedness of mental well-being with overall health, productivity, and societal harmony.
6, Feb 2024
Optimize site monitoring and security with Hikvision
06-02-2024
Timelapse video expert Site-Eye integrates its solution with Hikvision cameras to optimize site monitoring and security
Site-Eye, the UK’s leading timelapse video provider, has integrated its software solution into Hikvision cameras using the HEOP 2.0 development platform. By converting its software into an onboard app in the Hikvision cameras, Site-Eye is making timelapse video better, less expensive, and less complex – helping its clients create professional timelapse video marketing content, monitor project management milestones, streamline supplier disputes, and improve overall site security. Hikvision spoke to Site-Eye’s Managing Director, Gareth Evans-McClave, to find out more.
How the project started
In the early 2000s, when we were undertaking our first time-lapse projects, keeping cameras running was difficult – requiring frequent battery and tape changes. To overcome this challenge, Site-Eye developed a system based on digital cameras and software that could reliably take time-lapse images at defined intervals for literally weeks on end. Since then, there has been high demand for our solutions, and we are now the biggest time-lapse video provider in the UK.
Site-Eye solutions
Site-Eye automates the process of time-lapse imaging on-site, making it very efficient and customizable to clients’ needs. For example, we can configure all connected cameras centrally, which means we can set the interval for images to be taken, turn cameras off and on remotely, and change the interval between timelapse images. Based on these capabilities, clients can create great marketing content for their projects, resolve supplier disputes faster, and increase overall site security and project efficiency. Thanks to these benefits, a project manager on a very large construction project in London reported a £1 million saving with Site-Eye.
One of our clients used Hikvision cameras for security applications and asked if we could integrate Site-Eye software into their devices. At that point, I reached out to Hikvision to see if they had this capability, and the support we received from them from day one was incredible. The Hikvision team provided us with demo cameras as well as some help and advice to get us started with the process of deploying Site-Eye as on-board software. As well as the excellent support, we’ve found that Hikvision devices are extremely reliable for our clients, and provide a great price-to-quality ratio. We’ve installed Hikvision cameras at many client sites now and we’ve never experienced a reliability issue, which is impressive.
Hikvision HEOP 2.0 to integrate Site-Eye with Ultra Series cameras
HEOP 2.0 allows us to control all Hikvision camera functions directly from our on- board app. Because HEOP 2.0 gives us the ‘key’ to the cameras, we’re not limited at all in terms of the software functions we can write and deploy. Also, HEOP allows us to harness the AI features that are built into Hikvision cameras at the factory. One example of this is the Hikvision People Counting capability, which
one of our clients has used to understand the flow of people through their site at different times of the day.
We’re working on new functionality, called SiteStream that we’re planning to integrate into Hikvision cameras in the near future. This captures 10 minutes of video between each still timelapse photograph, and the videos can be retained by the client for a pre-defined period and reviewed in the event of a security incident or supplier dispute. Hikvision is updating the firmware of HEOP 2.0 to enable the integration of SiteStream, which is a great example of how responsive and flexible the Hikvision team is.
Hikvision’s global presence and technology leadership also helps us connect with and serve customers in markets where we haven’t traditionally operated. What’s more, we ship the solution easily as an onboard app in Hikvision cameras, which means companies all over the world can use it to create professional timelapse videos of their projects.
6, Feb 2024
World Cancer Day: Vedanta Aluminium leads the way to build awareness on cancer prevention
New Delhi; 06th February 2024: On World Cancer Day, Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, reaffirmed its commitment to providing the best healthcare facilities and support to cancer patients, particularly those hailing from rural areas. On the occasion, Vedanta Group’s Raipur-based state-of-the-art cancer facility and one of India’s leading cancer care hospitals, BALCO Medical Centre (BMC), organised a series of cancer awareness activities in Chhattisgarh, focused on promoting prevention, detection, and treatment of the disease. BMC’s efforts were aligned with the theme ‘Closing the Care Gap’ by bringing cancer care to people’s doorsteps through a mammography van equipped with screenings for breast, cervix, and head & neck cancers – the 3 most common cancers in India as well as opening a chemotherapy daycare centre in the heart of Raipur so patients don’t have to travel far for chemotherapy. Similar activities and awareness camps were organised by BALCO in Korba, in collaboration with the NGO Help Age India.
World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4th, is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about cancer and acknowledging the tenacity demonstrated daily by cancer fighters and survivors. As part of the activities, BMC also organised awareness sessions in schools and societies and a cancer awareness walk in the Raipur city. Along with this, BMC also announced a special offer on preventive cancer screening packages and pharmacy and a free second opinion for cancer patients.
Since its inception in 2018, BMC has served the needs of over 35,000 patients, addressing existing gaps in domestic cancer awareness and treatment. It is the most preferred oncology hospital in central India for advanced radiation therapy, brachytherapy, nuclear medicine, surgeries, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, blood-related disorders, plastic and reconstructive surgery, and pain & palliative care. This cutting-edge medical facility features 170 beds and state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. BALCO Medical Centre is bridging the gaps in domestic cancer treatment, awareness, infrastructure, and expertise. Furthermore, the centre has formed alliances with prestigious institutions in the field, including the Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) in Mumbai and Anuva, a transnational research company specializing in genomics biotech.
On the occasion, Ms. Jyoti Agarwal, Chairperson of BALCO Medical Centre, said, “World Cancer Day serves as a reminder that the battle against cancer is fought not only in clinics and laboratories but also in the hearts and minds of those affected. At BALCO Medical Centre, we are committed to providing people in rural areas with access to quality healthcare and bridge the universal healthcare gap, promoting awareness, and eliminating the stigma associated with cancer and promoting early detection and care, thereby fostering an environment of empathy and resilience.”
Speaking about BALCO Medical Centre’s role in creating awareness around the illness, Dr Bhawna Sirohi, Medical Director of BMC, “The delay in cancer diagnosis means patients are not cured, suffer from financial & time toxicity, and the catastrophic expenditure pushes them more into poverty – this is counterproductive for our country’s heath. On this World Cancer Day, BALCO Medical Centre organized a series of cancer awareness camps to promote early diagnosis of the disease which will lead to higher cure rates, elevate quality of life, and reduce the cost and duration of treatment, thereby contributing to a healthier nation. Destigmatizing cancer was at the heart of all the initiatives conducted on that day.”
Established by the Vedanta Medical Research Foundation (VMRF) and backed by the Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF), BALCO Medical Centre is making a difference in the lives of lakhs of people through increased access to quality medical care. BMC’s extensive roster of renowned cancer specialists regularly organises efforts to educate individuals on the cruciality of timely preventive screening and mitigation measures against various forms of cancer. Dedicated medical experts from the centre reach out to students, working professionals and other community members through several platforms such as awareness talks, health camps, and webinars. Along with cancer treatment, all patients at BALCO Medical Centre also receive robust psychological, nutritional and physical therapy, in addition to membership in patient support groups for emotional support during their care period.
5, Feb 2024
What this budget meant for logistics Industry
Bengaluru February 5, 2024– Finance Minister of India Ms Nirmala Sitaraman presented her annual but interim budget (due to ensuing elections) very recently. It had slew of offerings for logistics industry. The logistics sector has received a major push in the Interim Budget 2024 as the government plans to set up three major economic railway corridors to reduce congestion and logistics costs in India. Industry stakeholders welcomed the government’s plans but have highlighted that certain areas still require attention. Industry stakeholders welcomed the government’s plans but have highlighted that certain areas still require attention.
The government said these projects have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. These commodity-specific economic rail corridors aim to address congestion issues in rail lines, particularly in the eastern region. These dedicated corridors will facilitate faster movement of freight and improve turnaround times, reducing logistics costs for India. Currently, logistics costs account for approximately 12% of India’s GDP, which hampers its competitiveness, particularly in the manufacturing sector, compared with competing countries. Industry stakeholders say that by reducing traffic on transportation routes and improving the efficiency of freight transportation, the county can increase its logistical competitiveness.
Giving his views on the budget Lobb Logistics Chief Executive Officer Venu Kondur said, “This will be an added boost to Tech led logistics businesses “All forms of infrastructure – digital, social, physical – are being built in record time”, he went on to say “the government must adopt economic policies that will sustain growth and contribute in powering investment and fulfil aspirations. The commitment of renewed assurance on logistics policy and connecting multi-model through technology is going to be key. Increasing road network for motorable roads is also an added fillip to us. The government will take up next generation reforms and build consensus with the states and stakeholders to ensure effective implementation, Policy priority to provide training for MSMEs to compete globally. The government promise to expand and strengthen the EV ecosystem by supporting manufacturing and charging infrastructure”.
