9, Dec 2023
Vicky Kaushal Gets Candid About His Films, Characters, Life And A Lot More In Femina’s December 2023 Issue

National, 09th December 2023: Vicky Kaushal’s journey in the world of cinema has been nothing short of remarkable. From his memorable debut in Masaan to his acclaimed roles in films such as Manmarziyaan, Raazi, and Uri: The Surgical Strike, Vicky has always been a standout actor in the industry. Yet, he is one who credits his ability to deliver varied performances over the years to his directors. Putting his heart and faith in director Meghna Gulzar, he took on the role of the legendary Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in Sam Bahadur, which was released earlier this month. In Femina’s December 2023 edition, we delve into the story of his evolution, highlighting his journey to becoming one of the finest actors we know. The Cover Story celebrates the compelling journey of an actor whose talent and commitment continue to have an enduring impact on the big screen.

Cover Story - Vicky Kaushal in Femina's December edition

 Speaking about his approach to acting and his life choices, Vicky says, “Our job is to fake emotions, but, strangely, it is also about finding the truth in that and being honest at that. I just want people to connect to that honesty and that realness in me… In life, peace of mind really matters more to me than being right or making the right decision. I just say that this is what I’m feeling in my heart and I go by it; I ask God to take care of everything else.”

 Talking about his latest release and the character of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, Vicky adds, “I had to not walk or talk like myself; I had to create a different personality altogether. I made my instinct, my impulse, my physicality, and tonality all about his character. It has been a great opportunity, but you have to constantly remember that it is a big responsibility, you can’t take it lightly.”

 He also delves into his chosen philosophy for life, his regular self once the camera turns off, and his thoughts regarding karma, among other intriguing aspects.

9, Dec 2023
94% of manufacturing employees agree that their company is actively trying to provide more flexible work arrangements for frontline workers; Survey Conducted by UKG

● 84% of manufacturing employees (32 % strongly agree, 52% agree) acknowledge that there are two separate cultures in their company: one for frontline workers and one for everyone else
● Among manufacturing organisations, 77% (38 % strongly agree, 39% agree) find it more challenging to fill frontline manager roles compared to non-manager roles
● A significant 94% of manufacturing employees (51 % strongly agree, 43% agree) affirm that their company is actively trying to provide more flexible work arrangements for frontline workers
● 69% of Indian manufacturing employees (31% strongly agree, 38% agree) feel that their organisation is not doing enough to take advantage of mobile technology to support the frontline employee experience
● The report was launched at the latest UKG LIVE event.

 BENGALURU, India, 09, December, 2023 — Amidst the dynamic contours of the Indian manufacturing sector, a notable majority of organizations are taking proactive strides to embrace flexibility, ushering in a new era of improved working conditions for their frontline workforce. A new study by UKG, a leading provider of HR, payroll, and workforce management solutions for all people explores topics ranging from the prioritization of employee wellness to the transformative impact of digitalization on revenue and productivity. Additionally, it addresses pressing concerns such as cybersecurity in the era of digital transformation, the evolving role of artificial intelligence in manufacturing, and the strategic focus on building a skilled talent pipeline within the Indian manufacturing landscape.

UKG

  The study surveyed 314 HR leaders in India-based manufacturing organizations to gauge the impact of labor supply, labor laws, and compliance on operations. The survey covered diverse industries, with manufacturing at 43%, and food processing and pharmaceutical/life sciences each at 28%.

 Impact of labour laws and compliance on manufacturing organisations operating in India In the fiscal year 2019-20, amid the peak of the pandemic, the Indian Parliament enacted four new labor codes. These codes consolidated a network of 29 central labor laws and encompassed the Code on Wages, 2019; the Industrial Relations Code, 2020; the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020; and the Code on Social Security, 2020. Despite this, certain states are still in the process of formulating and publishing rules to implement these codes, given that  labor is a subject falling under the jurisdic ions of both the central government and individual states.

Moreover, an overwhelming 96% of organizations find their state’s current labor laws and regulations effective in fostering a favorable working environment for the manufacturing industry. Regarding year-over-year changes in compliance costs in the past 12 months, 75% of organizations noted shifts, with 50% reporting a moderate increase and 25% indicating a significant increase.

The survey included manufacturing organizations from different Indian states, with the breakdown as follows: Andhra Pradesh (10%), Bihar (11%), Gujarat (14%), Haryana (10%), Karnataka (15%), Maharashtra (32%), Tamil Nadu (15%), Telangana (6%), Uttar Pradesh (13%), West Bengal (7%), and Other (3%).

To what extent are organisations prioritizing the frontline employee experience? (and is it enough?)

In India, the study reveals that 52% of Indian manufacturing organisations have adopted flexible scheduling practices, empowering employees with the autonomy to set shift availability, swap shifts, or extend working hours. Other key offerings include 51% prioritizing employee well-being through wellness programs, 49% extending financial wellness benefits such as earned-wage access and same-day pay, 39% utilizing an employee communications mobile app, 34% offering hybrid or remote-work options, and 34% emphasizing predictable work schedules. Additionally, 27% provide paid time off, and 44% offer training and development opportunities.

Commenting on the survey, Sumeet Doshi, Country Manager at UKG India, said “As we navigate the intricate landscape of Indian manufacturing, our survey unfolds a narrative of progress and people-centric innovation. A compelling 52% of manufacturing organizations have embraced flexible scheduling practices, underscoring our commitment to empowering frontline workers. This not only provides them with autonomy over their work hours but also signifies a pivotal step towards a more agile and employee-focused industry. Furthermore, the resounding 96% endorsement of the effectiveness of state labor laws in fostering a positive working environment amplifies the collaborative spirit driving the manufacturing sector’s success.”

Synergizing Human Potential with Technological Innovation in Manufacturing

69% of Indian manufacturing employees (31% strongly agree, 38% agree) feel that their organization is not doing enough to take advantage of mobile technology to support the frontline employee experience.

 Presently, 10% of Indian manufacturing organizations leverage the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for optimizing workforce scheduling. In contrast, 38% of these organizations rely on digital tools to enhance their scheduling processes. Furthermore, 41% of Indian manufacturing entities harness electronic tools for workforce scheduling. On the other hand, 11% still adhere to manual processes for scheduling.

Ashok Saxena, VP Engineering at UKG India, noted that “The data clearly reveals the considerable untapped potential for incorporating technology into the Indian manufacturing sector. While a mere 10% currently embrace the efficiency of Artificial Intelligence for workforce scheduling, there’s a significant 38% leveraging digital tools. Simultaneously, the feedback from our workforce is paramount, with 69% expressing a desire for more emphasis on mobile technology to enhance the frontline employee experience. This underscores the pivotal role of technology, urging organizations to not only embrace AI but also prioritize the integration of mobile solutions for a more connected and empowered workforce. The future of manufacturing lies in the seamless synergy of human potential and technological innovation.”

Crucial priorities for manufacturers over the next 12 months

Over the upcoming year, 47% of manufacturers are placing a high priority on employee well-being and safety, while 41% are emphasizing cybersecurity, and 40% are directing their attention towards digital transformation. Additional priorities encompass recruitment (32%), retention (23%), Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI&B) initiatives (39%), sustainability efforts (39%), fortifying supply chain resilience (35%), exploring AI and generative AI (35%), nurturing a positive workplace culture (32%), and preparing for resiliency and disaster scenarios (27%).

9, Dec 2023
Bangalore based Digital Parenting tech platform – Baatu Technologies unveils India’s first and Safest Smart Tab for kids – Enable Tab

Mumbai, 9th December, 2023: Baatu Tech, at the forefront of revolutionizing digital parenting, proudly introduces the ‘Enable Tab’, powered by the Android 12 operating system—India’s leading parental control tablet designed to safeguard children in the virtual realm. Recently launched Enable Tab, is conveniently available for purchase on Baatu Tech’s official website and popular e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart. To celebrate this milestone, Baatu Tech is extending exclusive benefits to its customers during the launch period. Take advantage of special concessions, including a referral bonus and a generous Rs. 500 ‘direct purchase’ discount as part of our inaugural offer.

Baatu Tech_Enable Tab (2) (1)

 The ‘Enable Tab’ leverages the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance digital parenting capabilities. As the flavor of the season, AI plays a pivotal role in the tablet’s functionality, particularly in the identification of inappropriate content. The device’s claim to fame lies in the ability of the AI models to detect and alert parents about potentially harmful material, ensuring a safe and secure online environment for children. Its parental control system is distinct, offering a seamless link between the “Baatu Parenting App” and the ‘Enable’ tab, providing detailed insights into children’s online activities. The Enable Tab does not work without being connected to the parenting app, thus ensuring that every minute spent online is supervised and safe for your ward.

 The organization further ensures the security and privacy of children by employing end-to-end encryption, assuring that personal information remains protected and is not used for advertising purposes. Other key features include:

 ● Geo-Fencing: Creating virtual perimeters to notify users when entering or leaving specific areas
● Screen Time Monitoring: Enabling parents to set daily screen time limits and gain insights into device and app usage through detailed statistics
● App Control/Monitoring: Parental access to lock/unlock specific applications
● Identifying Inappropriate Content: Scanning all content sources for inappropriate material using AI models
● Battery Level Monitoring: Tracking and notifying parents when the battery reaches critical levels.
● Providing parents with call usage statistics, text monitoring, and call whitelisting

 Additionally, The Enable Tab is a powerhouse tablet that can handle anything you throw at it. It’s perfect for students, professionals, and families needing a device to keep up with their busy lifestyles. It boasts a large and clear 10.1-inch HD display, a powerful MediaTek processor, dual cameras, supreme speakers, and a long-lasting 6000mAh battery.

 Furthermore, Baatu Tech recognizes the need to address critical concerns about online safety, including mental health. The ‘Enable Tab’ introduces a suicide alert feature, utilizing AI algorithms to identify potential signs of distress in children’s online activities. This groundbreaking functionality goes beyond traditional parental control measures, providing parents with timely alerts and resources to intervene and support their children during vulnerable moments.

 Sandeep Kumar, Founder & Managing Director, Baatu Tech said, “In an age of hyper-connectivity, the widespread use of phones to keep children occupied sparked our interest in understanding the impact on the next generation. While acknowledging the need for digital literacy, we must ensure that what should function as a boon does not become a bane. The Enable Tab is the perfect way to strike this balance. It embodies our effort to ensure that every child can explore the deep spans of the internet without risking their well-being. “

  Baatu Tech is committed to continuous improvement, offering timely updates and upgrades for added security and features. Therefore, it is a trusted ally for helping children navigate the virtual landscape.

9, Dec 2023
Mayur More shares insights into his Slum Golf journey, reveals his experience of learning a new game for Amazon miniTV series

Mumbai, 9th December 2023: Amazon miniTV, Amazon’s free video streaming service, took viewers on an exhilarating journey riding high on emotion, passion and adrenaline with its acclaimed sports drama series, Slum Golf. The series chronicles the inspiring story of Pawan, who goes from navigating life in Mumbai lanes to basking in the glory of the sport, presenting a strong narrative of dreaming big in the face of societal challenges. Featuring Sharad Kelkar, Mayur More, and Arjan Aujla in pivotal roles, Slum Golf is currently streaming on Amazon miniTV for free.

Mayur More

 Talking about the most crucial criterion for playing the character of Pawan in the series, Mayur More shared, “In Slum Golf, Pawan strives hard to become a professional golfer, which made me wonder how I would bring out authenticity in my portrayal. I was confident about managing to bring conviction to other aspects of my performance except for authentically essaying the role of a professional golfer. Interestingly, Vinay, one of our writers, plays golf, and it was the first thing I got to know when I finally got roped in for the series. So, I told them clearly that I wanted to learn golf. I remember I even told the team that I wouldn’t take up the role if I couldn’t get to learn golf. It was an important criterion for me. Unfortunately, I had very little time to learn golf, around 15-20 days, as we were supposed to start shooting in May.”

 Delving further into the preparations for learning the key basics of golf, Mayur expressed, “We couldn’t get the coaching that we were supposed to. There is a small sports club in Lokhandwala, where you can go and work on your basics, so I went there and practiced. Golf is a very difficult game. Before hitting the ball, my coach repeatedly told me that I must remember 89 things, and I was like I don’t even have 89 days for this. However, I somehow managed to practice, tried to learn their posture and body language and understand how they hit the ball and where it landed. I learned all this just to be able to sink my teeth into my character as a pro golfer. Although I was hitting bad shots, there were a few decent ones too, which used to boost my confidence.”

 Adding to this, he emoted his delight to being praised for his professional body language, “I used to get comments that I fit the role of a pro golfer, which was an advantage. I knew I could crack the posture. I got to learn so many new things about golf – how one thinks when one hits the ball, deals with the pressure, understands the direction of the wind, among many other things. Since I have a cricketing background, getting a hang of the body language was not a herculean task. I am glad that I got to learn a new game.”

 Indulge in this endearing tale and experience a range of emotions with Slum Golf on Amazon miniTV, available on Amazon’s shopping app, on Fire TV, and Play Store.

9, Dec 2023
DishTV’s Watcho – OTT Super App Surpasses 3 Million Subscriptions within a year of launch

09th, December 2023: Dish TV’s exciting new OTT aggregation platform, Watcho – OTT Super App, a one-stop solution for OTT entertainment for all generations, urban and rural alike including the Gen Z, has exceeded the notable milestone of 3 million paid subscriptions, closely following its attainment of the 2 million subscriber mark in August this year. This is a significant highlight for the platform’s sustained growth in the competitive OTT aggregation and entertainment landscape since its launch in 2022.

Dish Watcho Logo

Watcho – Dish TV’s OTT platform has demonstrated exceptional growth, amassing a user base exceeding 90 million since launch, showcasing its dedication towards delivering high-quality entertainment solutions to a diverse audience. The platform not only gained a substantial user base but also solidified its position as a leading OTT solution.

The success of Watcho is attributed to its unique approach, offering bundled packages of leading OTT platforms under a single subscription along with its own exclusive content under ‘Watcho Exclusives’. This provides users with a seamless and comprehensive entertainment experience, featuring 16 popular platforms such as Disney+ Hotstar, Zee5, Sony Liv, Lionsgate Play, Hungama Play, HoiChoi, Chaupal, Manorama Max, FanCode, Raj Digital, Tarang Plus, ShortsTV, ETV Win, Stage, Aao Nxt, and ‘Watcho Exclusives’.

The OTT Super App also grants entry to Watcho’s extensive collection of original content, including 45 plus captivating web series, Swag (user-generated content), popular shows, and exclusive live TV. The diverse array of shows covers genres such as romance, corporate conspiracies, family drama, fantasy, adventure, and sci-fi providing seamless access to premium content.

Commenting on the milestone achievement, Mr. Manoj Dobhal, CEO of Dish TV India Ltd, said, “As we celebrate the achievement of 3 million paid subscriptions on Watcho – OTT Super App, it’s a moment of pride and gratitude. This milestone underscores the resonance of Watcho as a unique offering that provides complete 360-degree OTT entertainment on one platform ‘One hai to done hai’. The audience has validated this new concept and solidified our position as a preferred entertainment destination. We interpret these numbers not just as subscriptions but as a measure of trust, loyalty, and a validation of our commitment to delivering top-notch entertainment.”

He emphasized, “At Dish TV and Watcho, we are committed to creating a new immersive content experience for our users, and driving business growth through innovative new business streams’

Sukhpreet Singh, Corporate Head – Marketing, Dish TV and Watcho, said, “The milestone of 3million paid subscriptions of Watcho is a testament to the evolving preference of the Indian audience validating that it is a go-to destination of the youth for diverse and engaging entertainment. For users, the idea to create their own content and not just consume the given content has given us a significant foothold in the market. Reaching this landmark in just about a year reaffirms our commitment to providing compelling content and innovative products. We look forward to continuously evolving and sustaining this momentum by shaping the future of entertainment”

Watcho features an exclusive platform for user-generated content known as Swag, offering individuals the opportunity to create and upload their content and explore their creative potential. Watcho currently offers over 45 plus original series, 400 plus exclusive plays, and 100 plus live channels.

As Watcho – OTT Super App continues to set benchmarks in the OTT industry, it remains focused on enhancing the user experience and providing a comprehensive entertainment solution

9, Dec 2023
Acer Debuts Nitro V 16 Gaming Laptop Powered by New AMD Ryzen 8040 Series Processors

Hyderabad December 9, 2023: Acer today announced the new Nitro V 16 (ANV16-41) gaming laptop, built for casual players looking for a well-balanced device with modern features and more. The latest Nitro V laptop is powered by the new AMD Ryzen™ 8040 Series processors with Ryzen™ AI technology built in and up to NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 40 Series Laptop GPUs with DLSS 3.5[[i]] to deliver versatile performance, long-lasting battery life, and AI-powered technologies. Even in the heat of battle, the Nitro V 16 stays cool through innovative thermals highlighted by a dual fan system and keeps users at the center of the action with stunningly immersive visuals.

“Acer and AMD continue to collaborate in bringing AI-backed gaming experiences with the latest Nitro laptop powered by the new AMD Ryzen 8040 Series processors,” said James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks, Acer Inc. “Combined with fast refresh rate display options, enhanced features, and loads of improvements across the board, the Nitro V 16 brings an exciting new AI-ready gaming laptop to the table for all types of gamers.”

Seamless Gaming Experiences with AMD Ryzen 8040 Series Processors

Acer Nitro V 16_1

The Nitro V 16 delivers performance and efficiency for gaming or work with up to the new AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS Processors at the helm. Leveraging its ‘Zen 4’ core architecture design, gamers can relish reliable speeds when streaming or gaming and go further with long-lasting battery life developed from smart battery optimizations and third-generation power management features (PMF). The Windows 11 gaming laptop also produces smooth, AI-enhanced visuals on ray-traced games and applications with up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPUs[1] and DLSS 3.5 technology[1]. GeForce RTX technologies are supported in more than 500 popular games and applications, including blockbuster games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Alan Wake 2. With up to 32 GB of DRR55600 RAM and up to 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage, on top of a cutting-edge dual fan cooling system, the Nitro V 16 is well-equipped to take on heavy gameplay and data transfers.

Offering Everything You Need and More

Featuring 16-inch WQXGA or WUXGA display options with 165 Hz refresh rates and 3 ms response times, the Nitro V 16 showcases fluid visuals with minimal ghosting and screen tearing for blur-free gaming sessions. Gamers will have the competitive edge as they can see and hear every detail thanks to the panel’s 16:10 wide aspect ratio, plus its speakers with DTS X: Ultra for crystal-clear audio. A suite of AI-enabled features can also be maximized when streaming or video chatting with the webcam’s AI-supported Acer PurifiedView™ and Acer PurifiedVoice™ 2.0 featuring three microphones with AI noise reduction technology.

Players can monitor device performance and temperature using the NitroSense utility app with one click of the dedicated NitroSense key. Accessory gamers will also appreciate the Nitro V 16’s full range of peripheral and connectivity ports, including a full-function USB 4 Type C, two USB 3 ports (one which allows for offline charging), an HDMI port, microSD card reader, and compatibility with Wi-Fi 6E. Lastly, the laptop also comes with one month of Xbox Game Pass so users can enjoy the latest titles with fellow gamers on PC.

Pricing and Availability

The Nitro V 16 (ANV16-41) will be available in North America in March 2024, starting at USD 999.99, and in EMEA in April 2024, starting at EUR 1199. Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com .

9, Dec 2023
Med Insights Session on Fertility

XITE hosted a transformative session, “Fertility: Changing Perspective in the Present Era,” on December 8, 2023. Dr. Dorothy P. Ghosh, a seasoned fertility consultant with 15 years of experience, shared invaluable insights. The event, made possible through Renew Fertility, aimed to educate and create awareness.

XITE - Med Insights Snap 4

 The esteemed resource person enlightened students, faculty and attendees on crucial aspects of fertility. Prof. Sushmita Choudhury Sen and Prof. Akinchan Xaxa was present. The event was meticulously coordinated by Ashish Singh, Head of Branding & Communication, with support from Vice Principal Fr. Dr. Mukti Clarence.

 This session not only provided valuable information but also fostered a deeper understanding of fertility-related issues.  We extend our gratitude to Dr. Dorothy P. Ghosh for her expertise and Renew Fertility for making this insightful event possible. XITE – Shaping Futures, Igniting Minds

9, Dec 2023
ACT | The App Association Report Illuminates Small Businesses’ Impact in AI, Urges Policy Inclusivity

Washington, D.C., [December 9, 2023] – ACT | The App Association released “Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs: An Indispensable Force in AI,” a comprehensive report showcasing small businesses’ crucial role in the broader AI sector. While new to wider public awareness, these entities are not unique to working with the intricacies of AI technology. They have adapted to and are at the forefront of its innovative application, contributing significantly to an industry valued at $1.8 trillion.

The report draws on a series of focus groups with App Association members from across the country, bringing together a wealth of experience from seasoned developers and entrepreneurs. These discussions revealed a consistent theme: small businesses use AI innovatively in unique and significant ways, often finding solutions to real-world problems that larger corporations might overlook. This collective insight from diverse voices across the tech landscape underscores the vital role and unique perspective that small businesses contribute to the AI sector.

The report also highlights a critical issue: a decline in public trust in AI. Considering these small businesses ‘ valuable contributions, the findings underscore the importance of thoughtful policymaking.

Morgan Reed, president of The App Association, addresses this concern: ‘As we navigate the complexities of AI, it’s critical to broaden the scope of policy discussions. The Biden Administration and the bipartisan Senate Working Group, led by Senators Schumer, Young, Heinrich, and Rounds, must ensure that the diverse voices of the small business sector are included. Engaging these businesses is key to rebuilding public trust in AI.”

ACT | The App Association is a global trade association for small and medium-sized technology companies. Working with and for small business members to promote a policy environment that rewards and inspires innovation while providing resources that help them raise capital, create jobs, and continue to build incredible technology.

9, Dec 2023
JAIN College, Department of Humanities Sparkles with Literary Brilliance: LitFest Illuminates Bengaluru’s Budding Literary Enthusiasts

Bengaluru, 9th December 2023: JAIN College, part of JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), is proud to announce the much anticipated “LitFest” organized by the Department of Humanities, powered by Knowledgeum on 10th December 2023. The LitFest is a celebration of creativity, cultural expression, and intellect, open to all PUC students. With an enduring commitment to nurturing the literary passions of the promising enthusiasts, the Department of Humanities of JAIN College provides a platform where innovative ideas, words, and stories can flourish.

 The LitFest will showcase a varied array of literary talents, bringing together students, faculty, and prominent dignitaries like Dr. Indira Chandrasekhar- a scientist, a writer, a literary curator, and the founder and principal editor of Out of Print, an award-winning literary platform for short fiction bearing a connection to the Indian subcontinent, Ms. Kirtana Kumar is an actor, director, dramaturg and film-maker, and Mr. Kalyanaraman Durgadas is an alumnus of IIT Madras and IIM Calcutta and a serial entrepreneur. His renowned work, “Songs of the Cauvery” was adjudged the best debut novel in 2016, winning the Anupam Kher award in 2017, and was shortlisted for several other prizes and was reviewed favorably by many publications.

 Participants can partake in poetry writing, essay writing, story writing, and immersive workshops and panel discussions on the topic ‘AI Tools in Writing’, which are designed to inspire and cultivate the next generation of writers. The event will be a melting pot of ideas, fostering an environment where literary enthusiasts can connect, learn, and share their love for language and storytelling.

 Speaking on hosting LitFest, Dr. Jagadish Chandra, Head of the Department, Department of Humanities, JAIN College, VV Puram said, “We are thrilled for the LitFest- an immersive celebration of words, ideas, and the boundless creativity that defines the literary world. In a city known for its diversity, our LitFest aims to be a melting pot of thoughts, where the power of language unites us all. We embark on a journey of literary exploration, fostering a community that cherishes the written word and embraces the profound impact of storytelling on our lives.”

9, Dec 2023
Sightsavers India’s Eight–State Inclusive Education Programme Bags the Zero Award 2024

New Delhi, 9th December 2023: Sightsavers India won the Zero Project Award 2024 for its Eight–State Inclusive Education Programme’s concerted effort for using accessible Information and Communication Technology (ICT) devices. The initiative stood out among 523 nominations from 97 countries, earning recognition from an international peer-review board for its innovation, impact, and scalability.

Sightsavers India Logo

 The Zero Project 2024 annual research cycle was dedicated to the Inclusive Education and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) theme.

 Sightsavers India’s Inclusive Education Programme aims to promote a positive and enabling environment in schools, families, and communities to support the holistic education of children with visual impairment. Enablement is facilitated by the availability of assistive devices and accessible educational material, provision of compensatory skills training, infrastructure accessibility, and building education management and leadership.

 We aim to ensure that children who are visually impaired are included in mainstream education. RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, said, “It is gratifying to know that our Inclusive Education Programme is scalable, innovative, and sustainable. At Sightsavers India, we firmly believe that ICT plays a transformative role in the lives of students with visual impairment by promoting inclusion, improving access to information, and enhancing communication and independence. And this win reaffirms our beliefs. Congratulations to all fellow Awardees for their well-deserved recognition.” Founded by the Austrian non-profit Essl Foundation in 2008, the Zero Project is a global and research-driven initiative to support the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

 The Zero Project Call for Nomination 2024 was based on a research-driven approach to identify, curate, and share inclusive solutions, as intended and encouraged by Article 32 of the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).