Fisheries Development Oman (FDO) All Set to Shine at the China Fisheries & Seafood Expo 2023

MUSCAT, Oman – October 25, 2023:Fisheries Development Oman (FDO) along with its subsidiaries, eagerly anticipates its participation in the 26th China Fisheries & Seafood Expo, slated for October 25th to 27th, 2023, at the Hongdao International Convention and Exhibition Center (HICEC), Qingdao, China. This strategic involvement reflects FDO’s steadfast commitment to sustainable growth and global expansion.

Renowned as the world’s premier seafood event, the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo offers invaluable networking opportunities and avenues for business growth in the seafood industry. With 10 expansive exhibit halls spanning over 40,000 square meters and attendees from 100 countries, the event promises to be a hub of global seafood activity.

This year’s Expo takes on added significance due to the recent cooperation protocol between Oman and China, emphasizing food safety standards for bilateral imports and exports. This agreement ensures the safety and quality of Omani fish products in compliance with China’s health standards. It not only solidifies Oman’s status as a reliable global supplier but also expands its international presence. Furthermore, this partnership underscores Oman’s commitment to food security and paves the way for strengthened economic relations and trade opportunities in the fisheries and food security sectors. FDO’s presence at the Expo is a testament to its role in this transformative partnership.

Mr. Salim Al Ma’mari Group Director – Investments at FDO, commented, “As a prominent player in Oman’s flourishing fisheries and aquaculture sector, FDO’s participation underscores Oman’s pivotal role as a leading fish producer in the GCC region and as a significant net exporter of fish and fish products. Our aim is to elevate Oman’s stature further by expanding our seafood exports and accessing new markets. This entails a dedicated focus on adhering to market standards, embracing best practices, prioritizing food safety, and sustainability, and maintaining an environmentally responsible approach. Furthermore, the Sultanate of Oman offers appealing business incentives, ensures a conducive business environment, and continues to enhance fisheries infrastructure and value chain regulation.”

Fisheries Development Oman and its subsidiaries expect to cultivate new clients and partnerships, expand trade volumes and sales territories, engage with potential clients, explore fresh distribution channels, secure leads and sales opportunities with a majority of top-level executives, establishing a robust trading platform for aquaculture product exports, and gaining insights into trading mechanisms and market strategies.

Regarding the forthcoming event, Mr. Salim Al Ma’mari added, “Our presence at the China Fisheries & Seafood Expo in Qingdao, China, is truly significant. Chinese traders are increasingly showing interest in the diverse range of products offered by our subsidiary companies. This event presents a golden opportunity to engage with these traders and strengthen FDO’s reputation in both Chinese and global markets. Our objective is to foster collaborations, secure substantial deals, and attract investments in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. As fisheries form a cornerstone of Oman’s economy, our participation in this event echoes our national vision of amplifying this vital industry on the global stage.”

Fisheries Development Oman operates as an Investment and Development holding company, with its subsidiaries playing pivotal roles in various operations. This reflects FDO’s core focus on development and active participation in the industry. FDO has made significant strides in infrastructure development, diversified its investments, and pursued enhanced returns. A recent milestone includes the introduction of ‘Acila,’ a sustainable fishing vessel. FDO is committed to contributing to Oman’s economic growth by investing in local and international fisheries and aquaculture sectors. These efforts are in harmony with the broader objectives of sustainable development and economic diversification, as outlined in Oman Vision 2040.

Arvind SmartSpaces adds new high-rise project in Bengaluru with a top-line potential of Rs. 400 Cr

Bangalore, October 25, 2023: Arvind SmartSpaces Limited (ASL), one of India’s leading real estate development companies, part of the Lalbhai group, today announced that it has signed a new residential apartment project in Bengaluru, with a total estimated saleable area of ~4.6 lakh sq. ft. and a top-line potential of ~Rs. 400 Cr. This project is located in Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru. The project is acquired on an outright basis under the HDFC Platform 2.

Bannerghatta is the fastest growing residential micro market located in the southern part of Bengaluru on SH87. It has excellent connectivity to the Bannerghatta Main Road, IT/ITES belt in Electronic City and hosts numerous IT companies and Tech Parks. The site is in close proximity to extremely well-developed social and civic infrastructure with multiple schools, hospitals, retail, residential, and commercial spaces in close proximity. In addition, it is located close to picturesque hotspots MM Hills, The Bannerghatta National Park, St. Marks Cathedral, the Pearl Valley, ISKON Temple, Meenakshi Mall etc.

Commenting on this development, Mr. Kamal Singal, Managing Director and CEO, Arvind SmartSpaces said, “Our diversification initiatives addressing both horizontal and vertical developments across Bengaluru and Ahmedabad are progressing well. We are happy to add this high-rise project to our portfolio and this will deepen our presence in a key micro market in Bengaluru. Bannerghatta Road is a well-established micro-market and this acquisition will further expand the company’s presence in South Bengaluru.

With this acquisition, the cumulative new business development topline potential stands at more than ~Rs. 2,800 Cr for the current year to date. The buoyancy in the real estate market is extremely strong and we are well on track to conclude our ongoing business plan of Rs. 1000 Cr fresh investment to create a record year in terms of new project additions both from a value and volume perspective.”

5 reasons to be excited about this year’s MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT

MTV Hustle, the epicenter of India’s hip-hop revolution, has taken the nation by storm, bringing underground rappers to the forefront, making them household names. With the success of MTV Hustle and Hustle 2.0, the anticipation for MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT is at an all-time high. This season promises to be bigger and better, bridging the gap between underground and mainstream by bringing everyone on one single platform – beginners, established, commercial, underground. You name it, they have it!

For all these reasons and more, here are five compelling reasons why MTV Hustle 03 is a spectacle to witness.

A Cultural Movement
Through its electrifying performances, gripping narratives, and celebration of rap as an art form, Indian MTV Hustle has become a cultural phenomenon, igniting a passion for hip-hop and inspiring a new generation of Indian rappers.

Return of Rap Supremo – Badshah
It’s Yo boy Badshah is back this season with 3x the swag, style and spirit! His popularity among the youth is sky-high, and it’s exciting to see how he opens up the stage for the freshest and finest hip-hop talents this season.

Ikka The New Squad Boss
Ikka, the player of words, the ace of vibes, and the new Squad Boss in MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT! Audiences have seen Ikka in the previous season as a guest judge and loved the energy he brought. This time, the anticipation is even higher as Ikka steps into his new role, and it will be exciting to see how he uses his experience and expertise in the hip-hop game to his advantage.

Diverse Artists
MTV Hustle has consistently showcased artists from diverse cultures, offering a rich mix of talent. With contestants from Jammu, Guwahati, Pune, Haryana, and other parts of the country, the cultural fusion is expected to be even more exciting in MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT

Fresh Hip-Hop Tunes
From ‘Main Nahi Toh Kaun Bey’ to ‘Chhore NCR Aale,’ the previous season of MTV Hustle delivered some bangers that resonated with the youth. MTV Hustle 03 REPRESENT is expected to be no different, bringing the latest and most exciting tracks for audiences to groove to.

Project Atlas has the potential to be the next big thing in Crypto

– By: Mr. Rajagopal Menon, Vice President, WazirX

The Bank of International Settlements defines itself as a developer of public technological solutions to support central banks and improve the functioning of the financial system. It has played a prominent role in shaping the worldview of Crypto, often aiding in policy decisions of global financial watchdogs, identifying loopholes in adoption of digital assets, and subsequently presenting a more positive stance in recent times.

The BIS’s CBDC philia

In BIS’s view, private financial players are moving the needle on the sentiment towards digital assets for transactions. Furthermore, their ability to act at short notice with only domestic legislations to abide by, is putting them at an advantage over central banks across the world. However, they feel that they have a foot in the door in terms of CBDCs being a digital iteration of existing currencies that is a legal tender. It is not backed by assets as in the case of private Crypto tokens or stablecoins. In the opinion of BIS, this could be a game changer for the global payments system as they incorporate payments on distributed ledger for settlements in wholesale as well as retail transactions.

BIS has always been a proponent of settling payments using digital assets backed by the Central banks. In 2021, project Jura, launched by BIS, tested the transfer of digital currencies (euros and Swiss francs) between French and Swiss banks on a secure platform. The platform was created to settle trades involving tokenized assets and foreign exchange in a safe and efficient manner. The project was aligned with global efforts to improve cross-border payments and handling international financial transactions, such as those involving foreign exchange, securities, and more. The project concluded with the report that Jura could provide commercial banks access to CBDCs and also improve their efficiency in recording settlement transactions in a secure way. In addition to this, Project Dumbarton was designed to facilitate cross-border transactions between financial institutions in a swift and low cost manner, and could also enable international settlements using digital currencies issued by multiple central banks. Project mBridge was another successful attempt at creating a sandbox for central banks to serve as a specialized platform for implementation of multi-currency cross-border payments in CBDCs..

The scale and potential of project Atlas

Project Atlas’s announcement doesn’t seem quite like another of BIS’s collaborative projects between a few central banks to see how technological prowess can enhance the payment systems’ potential. This is a far more ambitious move which doesn’t simply want to tap into cross border payments but also ensure a fair information access for Bitcoin transactions worldwide, and assets, more commonly USDs being converted to BTC in circulation. A product of recent inconsistencies in the crypto ecosystem with respect to project collapses, illicit transactions and several rug pulls due to unverified or insufficient research, this could be a starting point of data consolidation for all stakeholders in the ecosystem.

How does it work?

According to the official website of the BIS, project Atlas combines on- and off-chain information, creating a layered approach to data vetting and tailored statistics for central banks. The first proof of concept of Atlas successfully showcases how to collect, clean and analyse data relevant to central banks’ mandates. This also extends to any data discrepancy or misinformation. Not just that, apparently, at any point, the implications of the Crypto ecosystem border on the verge of spilling on the mainstream financial system or show signs of affecting any macroeconomic aspects, the radar goes off and all regulators in the TradFi system have an idea.

What could be the outcome?

In recent years, the crypto asset market and its related products and services have experienced rapid growth. Additionally, these assets have become increasingly interconnected with the traditional financial system. This poses a challenge for policymakers who are tasked with monitoring the risks associated with this dynamic sector, particularly because many activities within it remain unregulated. There is a growing concern that these risks could soon reach a systemic level in certain countries, potentially leading to financial instability. The absence of coordinated regulatory measures may inadvertently facilitate disruptive movements of capital, which can have destabilizing effects.

The steps taken by the BIS (Bank for International Settlements) in collaboration with its partners, De Nederlandsche Bank, and the Deutsche Bundesbank, to create Project Atlas seem quite promising for a transparent data monitoring system in digital asset generation, management and transactions.

Regulations and country specific policies could become more nuanced based on real time data from this platform. This will lead to better engagement between public and private stakeholders due to enhanced information sharing and better understanding of any implications for the existing monetary system. Going by the information provided by the BIS, stakeholders can look forward to state of the art on chain and off chain data which could improve market integrity and accountability of all players. This in turn can greatly benefit Central Banks. Project Atlas could enable more customized policy responses based on tailored statistics. Central banks may be better equipped to address specific challenges and opportunities posed by crypto assets and DeFi if any, in their respective jurisdictions.

There is also an urgent demand for efficient cross-border transactions and more streamlined global value networks. Policymakers are actively seeking ways to enhance efficiency while maintaining security and stability. As a result, the focus is on digitalization and cutting-edge technologies, which are recognized as key catalysts for creating opportunities for a global information system that benefits one and all. Collaboration between central banks within the Eurosystem and international financial institutions like the BIS signifies a coordinated effort to address the global implications of crypto assets. This may lead to increased international cooperation in regulating and monitoring these markets, which has been the greatest takeaway from this year’s G20 summit, headed by India.

As central banks gain more insights into the trillion dollar crypto asset markets, they will also be better prepared to respond to market volatility and potential disruptions, which could boost financial stability and investor sentiment. In fact, monitoring the platform on a real time basis can provide insights into what can go into the betterment of the technology which could prevent impending risks, and also make transactions in the digital asset space smoother. Any new technological integration can be supervised and scourged for drawbacks or success, thus having the potential to be deployed at a larger scale.

The creation of Project Atlas and its focus on crypto asset markets and DeFi bolsters the growing recognition of the importance of blockchain based digital assets in the broader financial landscape. The implications of this initiative are likely to extend to regulatory and policy responses, risk assessment, and international cooperation in the evolving world of crypto assets and DeFi, finally culminating into an effective instrument for global Crypto adoption and facilitation.

EaseMyTrip launches EasyDarshan, a dedicated platform for spiritual tourism in India

Mumbai, October 25, 2023: EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s largest online travel tech platforms, has launched its latest offering, EasyDarshan (http://www.easydarshan.com/). This dedicated platform has been meticulously crafted to cater to the spiritual needs of travellers by providing comprehensive pilgrimage packages across India.

EasyDarshan offers an array of specially curated divine packages, ensuring devotees can focus solely on their spiritual journey and are free from the hassle of logistics and planning. The platform offers diverse packages and covers a wide spectrum of revered pilgrimage sites across the country, from the serene Himalayan shrines to the tranquil temples of the South. The packages offered to the customers are inclusive of transportation, accommodation, guided tours and special pujas. Prioritising safety and sanitation measures, the platform will ensure travellers have convenient, safe and peaceful spiritual tours.

Elated to announce, Mr. Nishant Pitti, CEO & Co-Founder, EaseMyTrip, said, “India is known as the land of spirituality and is home to beautifully carved temples, peaceful Gurudwaras, majestic churches and opulent mosques. This is why spiritual tourism holds a special place in the hearts of Indians, and people are now keen to visit vibrant religious and spiritual destinations more than ever before. We were aware this was an untapped territory and had immense potential for growth. This prompted us to launch EasyDarshan. With this platform, our vision is to bridge the gap between devotion and convenience and offer seamless, convenient and safe pilgrimage experiences that resonate with our customers’ spiritual aspirations.”

Spiritual tourism is a key market in the Indian travel and tourism industry. Venturing into this unique segment is a strategic move by the brand with the sole aim of simplifying and enriching pilgrimage experiences for its customers.

Amethyst presents an exhibition of The India Edit by Viya Home a contemporary gifting brand from October 25th to 29th, 2023 at Amethyst

Amethyst presents an exhibition of The India Edit by Viya Home a contemporary gifting brand rooted in India’s visual arts and legacy of fine craftsmanship. Inspired by influences ranging from Jaipur’s glorious architecture to lush Indian blooms, the objects include tabletop candelabras, serveware, diyas, and finials. The collections are underpinned by the studio’s distinctive design vocabulary and passion for preserving traditional artisanal techniques from 11am to 7.30pm on October 25th to 29th, 2023 at Amethyst, Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai. Ph : 044 45991630/31. Price Range: Rs.2,800/- to Rs.18,000/-

About The Designer – Vikram Goyal

Based in New Delhi, Vikram Goyal has spent two decades refining a contemporary design language within the international collectible design market. His work personifies the spirit and skill of artisanal techniques found in historic objects and translates the rich legacy of craft excellence from India into modern, timeless designs that resonate at home and abroad.

Drawing on the expertise of specialist artisans from across the country and a deep exploration of Indian metalwork traditions, Goyal designs limited-edition furniture and objects that celebrate material and form in abstract new ways. By diligently refining and re-inventing techniques that have been cultivated in the region for centuries, his work exudes a studied sophistication in Indian craft and conceptual and cultural narratives.

An engineer by training, Goyal went on to study development economics at Princeton University, then worked in finance in the USA and HongKong. Upon his return to India in 2000, he set up his design studio and began a critical study of the extraordinary craft history and ancient philosophies at the core of Indian culture. He has been meticulously advancing the art of collectible design in the region ever since, reintroducing intricacy and elegance into modern Indian design. A closer look, and even motifs commemorating ancient narratives, traditions and philosophies are subtly reimagined and contextualised in novel material applications across his work.

While the collectible works of the studio are revered by galleries, art fairs, interior designers, craft enthusiasts and collectors, the designer’s initial creative endeavours are still celebrated. Viya Home’s heartfelt mission to revive metalwork and other traditional crafts in a more accessible form launches in Fall 2023. Goyal also co-founded beauty and wellness brand Kama Ayurveda which elevated and gave modern relevance to an ancient system of medicine.

Among his more personal projects is Shringara of Shrinathji, the collector’s edition book he conceived and co-designed in 2022, which features miniature paintings of the Hindu deity Lord Shrinathji from his family collection. The creations of his own studio share a sense of timelessness with antiques and works of historic craft excellence that he personally collects.

Goyal has been named in Architectural Digest’s definitive list of the 100 most influential architects and interior designers in India, and is a winner of an Elle Deco International Design Award. He has been represented by Todd Merrill Studio in New York since 2020 and more recently with Nilufar Gallery in Milan.

Noise’s first smart ring, the transformative Luna Ring, is back on sale after an overwhelming response

India, 25th October 2023: After receiving an overwhelming response on the launch, Noise, India’s leading smartwatch, and connected lifestyle brand, today opens the second sale for its first smart ring, Luna Ring. The meticulously designed Luna Ring received a great response resulting in being sold out within just a few hours of the first sale going live. Designed to catalyze a transformative lifestyle shift, Luna Ring by Noise is now available and can be purchased from gonoise.com at INR 15,999. It is available in seven-ring sizes and five color options out of which Stardust Silver, Lunar Black, and Midnight Black will be currently available for customers to choose from.

Users get a subscription-free experience and insights through the Luna Ring App. As a first step towards purchase, consumers receive a tailor-made sizing kit that helps them identify the right size for their Luna Ring. Tracking more than 70 metrics, Luna Ring fosters cognitive functioning by delivering across three core metrics – Sleep, Readiness, and Activity. Noise’s smart ring comes equipped with advanced sensors and robust built quality helping users elevate their lifestyle effectively. Luna Ring’s advanced sensors, including Infrared PPG, Skin Temperature, and 3-axis accelerometer, provide highly accurate health tracking. It also comes with in-built algorithms that customize measurements for various skin tones, delivering unbiased results. The smart ring’s personalized nudges offer real-time insights.

Validated by IIIT-Hyderabad and All is Well (AIW), Luna ring delivers precise performance demonstrating 98% accuracy for step count and HR, and 95% for heart rate variation and has been benchmarked against gold-standard products used for fitness and health applications, to determine their reliability.

The state-of-the-art wearable is designed with an ultra-lightweight 3mm form factor, fighter-jet grade titanium and a diamond-like coating, determining its robust build. Ensuring durability against scratches and corrosion, it comes with hypoallergenic inner and comfortable outer shells for comfortable wear. Powered by BLE 5 technology, and water-resistant up to 50m, Luna Ring offers convenience and durability. With an impressive battery life of up to 5 days on a single charge, Luna Ring is a perfect companion and lifestyle ally, transforming your well-being.

ISH Leads the Dialogue on Innovative Educational Programmes At the UNWTO General Assembly

India, October 25th, 2023: Indian School of Hospitality (ISH), the preeminent institution in the field of hospitality education, is delighted to announce the participation of Mr Kunal Vasudeva, Co-Founder & Managing Director of ISH, as the keynote speaker at the esteemed UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) General Assembly.

Mr Vasudeva took the stage on October 19 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, to address the eminent gathering on the theme “Education, Investing in the Future” and also moderated a panel discussion on this substantial topic.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Vasudeva delivered an impactful keynote address, stating, “We have entered the experience economy, which is anticipated to evolve into an 8.2 trillion dollar behemoth; this isn’t a niche but a transformative force that shall alter the very DNA of our economy. It is no longer about unit economics but human economics! It’s no longer the software engineer, the lawyer, or the medical professional leading this charge. It is us — the individual trained in the art and science of hospitality.”

He also argued against the misconception that hospitality education is merely vocational training and emphasised the need for a significant shift in this perception. According to him, skills such as emotional intelligence, adaptability, and resource management are no longer optional but are pivotal to professionals in the 21st century.

Mr Vasudeva also advocated for unified action and public-private partnerships and shed light on the role of UNWTO in recognising the significance of quality education in sustainable tourism. Furthermore, he pointed out the need for a global approach to hospitality education and how a UNWTO-backed accreditation can become the gold standard.

He also stressed on the role of education in fostering ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) principles during his address and highlighted the endeavours of countries like the Maldives, New Zealand, and Costa Rica, which have successfully integrated sustainability into their tourism industry, and underlined the need for more nations to follow suit.

He also pointed out that adopting ESG principles can lead to significant financial benefits, and therefore, called for their global adoption.

At the end of the keynote, Mr Vasudeva shared a real-life example of Rahul, a hospitality graduate from India who implemented sustainable practices in his family resort. His practical approach made him an authority in policy-making circles while scaling his business. Rahul’s initiative solidified the role of hospitality education in promoting sustainability and equality.

Mr Vasudeva left the audience with the choice between embracing and leading the changes in the experience economy and also mentioned that re-evaluation and re-invention of hospitality education isn’t a matter of choice but a strategic imperative.

The 25th session of the UNWTO General Assembly incorporated a vibrant Global Forum on Education, emphasising the pivotal role of education in shaping the future of the tourism industry. This esteemed event brought together high-level ministers, thought leaders and renowned experts from around the globe to explore out-of-the-box approaches to tourism education and its significant impact on the sector.

Amid the panel discussion moderated by Mr Vasudeva, the esteemed participants delved into the substantial topic of “Unlocking Horizons: Tourism as a Must-Have Subject in Education and Youth Perspectives,” while also unveiling the UNWTO Education Toolkit. The toolkit was recognised as a valuable resource to enhance tourism education worldwide.

The eminent panellists involved in the thought-provoking discussion included-:

• Ms Alisha Gulden, Senior Vice President of Sales, National Restaurant Association (NRA), American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)

• Ms Sue Moffat, Head of Humanities and Social Sciences Portfolio, Cambridge Assessment International Education (Cambridge International)

• Ms Zukhro Bakhromkulova, student of “Silk Road” International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage

• Prof. Urs Wagenseil, Professor & Head of Touris at Institute of Tourism, Lucerne University of applied Sciences & Arts

The panel highlighted the significance of providing real-world exposure to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the intricacies of the hospitality industry. This hands-on approach is considered crucial for ensuring that graduates are job-ready and able to make valuable contributions from their very first day on the job.

The panellists also acknowledged that the tourism sector is dynamic and rapidly changing and educational programs need to adapt and evolve to stay relevant.

The gathering unanimously agreed that the curriculum should be designed with a clear focus on fostering responsible and sustainable tourism, ensuring that students are empowered to protect the culture and the environment. This proactive approach helps prepare students for careers that align with global sustainability goals.

Furthermore, the panel also discussed the flexibility of syllabuses and underscored the importance of allowing teachers to incorporate new initiatives and innovative approaches into their courses. This adaptability ensures that education remains aligned with the latest industry trends and emerging technologies.

Mr Vasudeva also had a significant interaction with the Indian Ministerial delegation at the event including Ms Manisha Saxena, IAS, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Mr Roshan MammarappallilThomas, Director, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (Overseas Marketing, International Cooperation, IT Division).

The discussion encompassed crucial issues related to India’s tourism sector and the role of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in creating a conducive environment for sustainable tourism and technology integration.

The UNWTO General Assembly convenes every two years and brings together influential representatives from the organisation’s member states and accomplished figures from the global tourism sector. The remarkable platform is recognised for fostering extensive discussions, knowledge sharing, and the creation of strategies to promote sustainable tourism across the globe.

It is considered one of the most influential meetings of global tourism officials and notable representatives of the private sector.

Some of the key highlights of the Global Forum on Education included-:

High-Level ministerial debate on policies to foster innovation & education for current and future generations: The insightful debate witnessed the convergence of tourism ministers from pioneering nations in tourism education.

The head honchos delved deeper into the formulation of innovative policies and effective instruments to bolster innovation and education for present and future generations in the tourism sector. The gathering also focussed on strengthening global partnerships to support inclusive and sustainable tourism development.

Keynote address on education, investing in the future: The inspiring address explored the considerable opportunities and challenges associated with investing in education. The speaker shed light on the significance of dedicating resources, especially to education in tourism.

Unlocking horizons: Tourism as a must-have subject in education and youth perspectives – presentation of the UNWTO Education Toolkit: The session included a lively fireside chat featuring the unveiling of the UNWTO education toolkit. A panel comprising education partners and academic representatives underscored the importance of integrating tourism studies into secondary education. It also shared inspirational stories and experiences showcasing the transformative potential of education.

Launch of the tourism academy in Uzbekistan: A striking presentation demonstrated the commitment of Uzbekistan to support tourism education and its collaboration with UNWTO via the launch of the Tourism Academy.

Awards Ceremony: UNWTO Ulysses Prize for Excellence in the creation and dissemination of knowledge in tourism: The occasion celebrated the incredible career of the 16th Ulysses Prize laureate, recognising individuals, organisations, or institutions that have made outstanding contributions to the creation and dissemination of knowledge in the field of tourism.

The prestigious award fosters innovation, research, and expertise sharing to promote the tourism sector and nurture sustainable development.

Closing remarks & signing ceremony: The Global Forum on Education reached its conclusion with closing remarks and a symbolic signing ceremony. The ceremony highlighted a resolute commitment to elevating tourism education to new heights across the globe.

The assembly also acknowledged the essential role played by hospitality and education in shaping the global economy and charting the course for the future of tourism.

Sharing his delight at the participation of the Indian School of Hospitality at the UNWTO General Assembly, Mr Kunal Vasudeva said, “I am deeply honoured to be part of the UNWTO General Assembly as a keynote speaker. In a sector characterised by constant transformation, innovative educational programmes are vital for fostering sustainable progress. Our objective is to inspire change and underscore the critical role of education in nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders and change agents. This momentous occasion also highlights ISH’s commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality education and making a lasting impact on the industry.”

As part of Sommet Education’s global network, ISH has carved a distinctive reputation in hospitality education, nurturing highly proficient industry professionals. This unparalleled legacy of excellence demonstrates the significant impact which the institution is making in shaping the future of the hospitality sector.

Kotak Mahindra Bank to Appoint International Banker, Ashok Vaswani as MD & CEO

Bengaluru, 25th October 2023: Kotak Mahindra Bank (‘Kotak’ or ‘the Bank’) today announced that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Ashok Vaswani as the Bank’s next Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO). This is for a period of three years from date of taking charge which shall not be later than January 1, 2024. The appointment is subject to shareholders’ approval.

Ashok has a proven track record spanning three and a half decades, initially at Citigroup and more recently, at Barclays, of building and growing global businesses at scale, nurturing winning teams, establishing transformational partnerships, leveraging forward leaning technology, with a compelling business vision to deliver strong bottom-line growth. He brings with him significant executional experience with high degree of compliance and industrial strength across Corporate and Consumer businesses.

Prakash Apte, Chairman of Kotak Mahindra Bank said, “We are pleased to announce that RBI has approved the appointment of Ashok Vaswani as the next MD & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank. Ashok is a global banking leader with a proven track record of building and growing businesses at an international scale and has successfully steered organisations to greater heights. We are confident that Ashok will accelerate change and drive growth at Kotak.”

Dipak Gupta, Managing Director & CEO, Kotak Mahindra Bank said “We welcome Ashok to the Kotak family. Ashok brings with him values and experience that align with Kotak’s vision to transform into a tech-enabled, customer centric financial institution for the future. “

Uday Kotak, Founder and Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank said “I am delighted that the RBI has approved our recommendation, Ashok Vaswani, as the next MD & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank. Ashok is a world class leader and banker with digital and customer focus. I am proud that we bring a “Global Indian” home to build Kotak and India of tomorrow.”

Ashok Vaswani said, “I thank the Board for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading Kotak Mahindra Bank’s journey to the next phase of growth. I am excited and honoured to carry forward the legacy of Uday who has built this world-class institution. With our proven leadership team we will take the Bank to new heights. We will ensure that Kotak Mahindra Bank plays a meaningful role in India’s journey to being one of the top 3 economies in the world in the next 5 years, delivering shareholder value. At a personal level, l am delighted to come back home.”

Ashok was Chief Executive Officer of Barclays Bank, UK and subsequently CEO of their Global Consumer, Private, Corporate and Payments businesses and Member of the Group Executive Committee. Earlier, Ashok was CEO Citigroup Asia Pacific and Member of the Citigroup Global Operating & Management Committees. He also built and ran various country and regional businesses across geographies. Currently, he is President of Pagaya Technologies Ltd – a US-Israeli AI Fintech. Ashok is also on the Board of the London Stock Exchange Group, the SP Jain Institute of Global Management, UK and supports various philanthropic organisations, including Pratham, and Lend-A-Hand.

Ashok is a Bachelor of Commerce, Economics and Accountancy, from the Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics (Bombay University), CA from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, CS from the Institute of Company Secretaries of India and Executive Education from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business.

EcoMins Leads Mineral Waste Management Revolution in Madhya Pradesh

Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, October 25, 2023— EcoMins, a dynamic force in the mining industry, has taken the lead in revolutionizing manganese ore extraction and refining in Madhya Pradesh. In collaboration with SR FERRO ALLOYS, the largest manganese producer in Madhya Pradesh and one of the top-five producers in India, Ecomins’ dedicated efforts are currently focused on the Kajali Dungari mines in the Jhabua district, showcasing a commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.

EcoMins contains the capacity of 300 Metric Tons of Manganese ORE’s beneficiation per day, the collaboration positions it as a driving force in the Mineral Waste Management. EcoMins with unwavering dedication to research and development, results in the creation of state-of-the-art processes that significantly enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate sustainability in Mineral Waste Management.

“At EcoMins, our vision is to revolutionize the mining industry by introducing cutting-edge technologies. The Kajali Dungari mines project is a showcase of our commitment to sustainable mining practices, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring the long-term viability of our operations. We are poised to become a driving force for positive change in the manganese ore mining sector, contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future. EcoMins aspires to become the preferred and most trusted supplier of manganese ore in the industry,” said Mr. Sawariya Saraf, Director, EcoMins.

With a specific emphasis on the beneficiation of manganese ore, EcoMins is pioneering approaches that go beyond conventional methods, promising a transformative era for the mining industries. The company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable in manganese mining is driving a paradigm shift in the sector.

“Our collaboration with EcoMins is not just about being the largest producer; it is about leading the industry in innovation and sustainability. We are amazed and proud to be a partner with EcoMins, as their dedication to harnessing the untapped potential of manganese ore, coupled with their commitment to cutting-edge technologies and pioneering approaches, is going to bring a positive change in the industry,” expressed Dr. Sudhir Sharma, Director at SR FERRO ALLOYS.

As the industry undergoes this transformative phase, EcoMins stands at the forefront, promising a future where innovation, efficiency, and sustainability are seamlessly integrated into the fabric of mining operations.