1, Dec 2023
SAI International Hosts the 7th Edition of SAITED
Hyderabad, 1 December 2023: SAI International Education Group, one of the leading educational institutions in India, hosted today, the 7th edition of SAITED 2023, one of the largest K-12 Science and Technology fests in the country. The event witnessed active participation of more than 7000 students from 36 schools with more than 120 projects across the state. The theme for this year’s fest was “Evolving Perspectives: Navigating the Unseen Paradigm,” emphasizing the ever-changing nature of science and technology.
Managed by the students of Class XI from the science stream, with mentor support, SAITED 2023 featured a diverse range of activities, including a Tech Fair, Startup Park, Workshops, Student sessions, Ted Talks, STEM Thought Leaders’ Talks, Games, eGames, Science events, Theme Park, and more. The fest provided a platform for students from Class VI to XII to showcase their projects and ideas, encouraging them to adapt to new perspectives and paradigms in the realms of scientific and technological advancements.
The distinguished presence of SAITED Chief Guest, Dr. Athithan Gopalaswamy, Former, DG DRDO DG – Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR), added luster to SAITED 2023. In his address during the SAITED Talk, he shared, “This fest is a platform for students to exhibit their talents and share innovative ideas and provides a valuable opportunity for students to refine their skills and showcase their creativity. SAITED is serving as a hub for nurturing the talents of our youth.”
While addressing the student in SAITED 2023, Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson, SAI International Education Group, expressed, “Just like every year, this year as well, I am overwhelmed to see the perfectly organized and managed mega event like this by my SAIoneers. We are following the path of our Founder- Chairman Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, and we are committed in nurturing leadership qualities, critical thinking abilities, creative mind, and scientific temperament among students.”
The fest remained true to its core objective of promoting STEM disciplines among school students. It aimed not only to educate but also to inspire and guide the students towards becoming future innovators and contributors in their chosen fields. The fest provided a platform for students to present their ideas and research. Erfan Firouzi, a TedX Speaker and Environmentalist, delivered a STEM Thought Leaders’ Talk during SAITED 2023.
In the vibrant landscape of SAITED 2023, a tapestry of innovation and knowledge unfolded through an array of dynamic workshops such as, “Techutionalising the Urban Mobility Space,” “Cosmoquest: Journeying through Space, Science & Robotics,” “Cosmetolab: Exploring Science Beneath Beauty,” “Roboforge: New realms,” “Greengen Innovate: Cultivating sustainability,” and “Dronetech Mavericks: Skyward Adventures.”
SAITED 2023 also featured the participation of various startups, including SPARC, YOUNG TINKER ACADEMY, Institute of Life Sciences, EMOTORAD, CSIR-IMMT, STPI, CEIBA Green Solutions, PLANTERY, IG DRONES, SAK ROBOTICS, and Bon V Technology.
SAITED 2023 concluded with a lavish closing ceremony that included an amazing musical extravaganza. Among the well-known artists at the event were the female vocalist Gini, the male vocalist Shashank Shekhar, the incredible beatboxer Mimic, and Yayati Parekh, who was a riveting emcee. Their group performance captivated the students in attendance and offered a pleasant way to round off the day’s activities.
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- By Rabindra
1, Dec 2023
Jaipur Music Stage 2024’s stellar line-up
As Jaipur prepares for the 17th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, the Jaipur Music Stage, running concurrently with the ‘greatest literary show on Earth,’ has unveiled its incredible line-up of performers. JMS will present a diverse array of artists from the Indian subcontinent, offering a rich tapestry of musical genres that reflect a fusion of style, sound, and history.
Acclaimed singer, songwriter, and poet Alif (Mohammad Muneem) will be performing on the first evening. He is the recipient of multiple awards, including the Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival Award for the single Lalnawat, IRAA Award for the single Like a Sufi, and the IIMA Award for ‘Best Folk Song’ – Ride Home.
Alif recently featured in Coke Studio Bharat’s Season 2 where he was the vocal composer for Kya Karie Korimol. The evening will also feature The Tapi Project, comprising Yogendra Saniyawala (acoustic & bass guitar, lyrics, composition), Swati Minaxi (voice), Gaurav Kapadia (drums) and Biju Nambiar (keyboards, bass and drums). The band experiments with intricate genres in music like folk, trip-hop, jazz, and ambient textures and uses folk instruments as an essential part of their band.
The second evening of JMS will feature Prabh Deep, a Delhi-based multi-faceted artist, who has evolved into one of the region’s brightest visionaries, making his mark as one of the best storytellers in the game today. While ‘Class-Sikh’ was a deeply autobiographical project, Deep showcased his ability to craft intricate and vivid narratives that spoke to larger audiences in subsequent releases.
This can be seen on his ‘K I N G’ EP and his critically acclaimed ‘Tabia.’ The second evening will also feature a performance by The Revisit Project, a group which unravels the complexity and rigour of jazz with a distinctive and characteristic twist. Their music combines a solid groove, old-school funk, and rhythmic jazz while offering pointed observations about life, love, and politics in India. Originating in 2014 as a tribute band, they sought to rediscover some of the lost treasures of Hindi film music, infusing contemporary Funk & Jazz fusion into their renditions.
The final evening will witness an incredible set featuring renowned singer-songwriters Harpreet and Salman Elahi. Harpreet is a versatile artiste who sings original musical compositions in Hindi, Punjabi, Bengali, Assamese, Rajasthani and Haryanvi. He is best known for creating musical scores to epic works of humanist poets like Kabir and Bulleh Shah.
Mumbai-based musician Salman Elahi’s soothing voice has captured the hearts of over 20 million people worldwide with his popular song Pahadon Mein. Writing and singing primarily in Urdu/Hindi, Elahi believes in using his music to express his thoughts about life and self-discovery. The evening will also showcase India’s ever-evolving band When Chai Met Toast (WCMT).
The band consists of vocalist Ashwin Gopakumar, guitarist Achyuth Jaigopal, keyboard player Palee Francis and drummer Pai Sailesh. Formed in 2016 with their debut EP ‘Joy of Little Things,’ the quartet swiftly gained attention for their unique multilingual lyrics, infectious sing-along choruses, and incorporation of acoustic folk instruments.
A night market offering a variety of merchandise, including instruments, music technology, indie label music, and other paraphernalia, will add excitement to the Jaipur Music Stage evenings.
1, Dec 2023
Bank of Baroda Introduces the BOB Parivar Account for Savings and Current Accounts
‘My Family, My Bank’ brings together a family’s entire banking relationship with the Bank, doing away with the need to maintain a minimum balance for each account and enabling all family members to enjoy attractive benefits
Mumbai, December 1, 2023: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, announced the introduction of the BOB Parivar Account for Savings and Current Accounts. The ‘My Family, My Bank’ segment, which has been launched as a part of the Bank’s “BOB Ke Sang Tyohaar Ki Umang” festive campaign, groups all the bank accounts belonging to members of a single family under One Family. While each account will be operated independently by the primary account holder, the maintenance of quarterly average balance (QAB) is recorded at the Group/ Family level, eliminating the need to maintain QAB in every single account.
Further, it gives each family member access to an array of benefits during the festive period due to the overall enhanced relationship. The BOB Parivar facility is open to both new and existing customers.
The BOB Parivar Account can comprise of a minimum of two and a maximum of six members. Eligible family members for the BOB Parivar Savings Account segment include the spouse, parents, children, parents-in-law, daughter-in-law and/or son-in-law. The BOB Parivar Current Account Segment is open to proprietorship, partnership, LLP and Pvt. Ltd. companies, which are group companies or sister concerns.
Both the BOB Parivar Savings Account and the BOB Parivar Current Account segments come in three distinct variants – Diamond, Gold and Silver – with varying Pooled Quarterly Average Balance (PQAB) requirements (For Savings Accounts – Diamond: Rs 5 lakh & above; Gold: Rs 2 lakh & above; Silver: Rs 50,000 & above; For Current Accounts – Diamond: Rs 10 lakh & above; Gold: Rs 5 lakh & above; Silver: Rs 2 lakh and above) and associated benefits.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ravindra Singh Negi, Chief General Manager – Retail Liabilities & NRI Business, Bank of Baroda said, “We are delighted to introduce the BOB Parivar Account for our Savings and Current Account holders. By grouping together individual accounts of a single family or associated companies, our customers will be greatly rewarded with superior benefits, which are normally provided in accounts maintaining higher balances. In the BOB Parivar Account segment, all individual family members will gain from the overall balances maintained together. Here there is no requirement to maintain individual Quarterly Average Balance for each account, thus enhancing the overall banking experience. As a bank with a 115 year history, we are privileged to have generations from the same family bank with us and the ‘My Family, My Bank’ concept will further strengthen and deepen their relationship with Bank of Baroda.”
Benefits of the BOB Parivar Account:
- Concessional Interest Rates on Retail Loans for Saving Accountholders
- Waiver of Processing Charges on Retail Loans (excluding TCR/Valuation Charges)
- Concession in Locker Rent Charges
- Concession in Demat AMC
- Concession in manual NEFT/RTGS charges (Digital is 100% Free)
- Complete waiver of DD/PO Charges
- Concession in Cheque Book charges
- Waiver of charges on collection of Outstation Cheques (Only Postage & Out of Pocket expenses are payable for Collection of Outstation Cheques)
- Complimentary SMS/Email Alerts and Standing instructions
1, Dec 2023
Director Parmeet Sethi navigates the fine line between ethical hacking and cybercrime while talking about Amazon miniTV’s Hack Crimes Online
Mumbai, 1st Dec 2023: Amazon miniTV – Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently released the cybercrime thriller Hack Crimes Online which explores the lives of hackers and highlights how technology can help law enforcement in enhancing the security further. Directed by Parmeet Sethi and featuring Vipul Gupta and Riddhi Kumar in the pivotal roles, the series is being lauded by critics and viewers for its intriguing narrative and strong characters, exploring the dark world of cybercrime.
Amazon miniTV hosted an exclusive round table discussion with Mr. Amogh Dusad, Head of Content, at Amazon miniTV, Mr. Shital Bhatia, an Indian film producer and co-founder of Friday Filmworks, Mr. Parmeet Sethi, Indian Film Industry Actor and director and the Indian actor Vipul Gupta. The conversation revolved around the current cyber threats and how to combat them, with special emphasis on Amazon miniTVs efforts and role in raising awareness among conman in an engaging and creative way.
While highlighting the aspect of advanced cybercrime and the role of ethical hackers, director Parmeet Sethi also shared his approach for writing the script and the resources he used alongside Amit Dubey’s book. Parmeet candidly revealed his communication with ethical hackers to get more insight about the hacking world. “Amit has an outfit where he has these ethical hackers.
So I happen to interact with them, obviously Amit was there throughout, holding my hand and telling us exactly how things are, is it possible to hack it in this way or not possible. We asked him all those basic questions and he answered them and of course my writers, they did their research. I am sure they approached a lot of people, hackers, and there are some people whom I know in the hacking world who are basically in the US.
I called them up, I spoke to them and they are also white hats, they help Indian government, the American government, so they were also very helpful in giving me insight into how hacking actually happens and how we actually counter it,” he shared.
Delving deeper into the dark deep rooted cybercrimes, Hack Crimes Online sheds light on the vast reach of the internet and how we are mere puppets in the hacking world. Hack Crimes Online is currently streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV available on Amazon’s shopping app, on Fire TV, and on Play Store.
1, Dec 2023
IEEE EPS IESA 2023 Workshop Ignites Innovation and Collaboration in the Electronics and Semiconductor Industry
Bengaluru, 1 December 2023- The much-anticipated IEEE EPS IESA workshop has successfully commenced, marking a significant milestone in the realms of electronics, semiconductors, and emerging technologies. Hosted by the IEEE Electronics Packaging Society (EPS) and the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), this workshop brings together visionaries, experts, and industry leaders from around the globe.
Happening alongside the Bengaluru Tech Summit, The workshop kicked off with thought-provoking keynote addresses from distinguished personalities, setting the tone for the days ahead. Eminent speakers shared their insights on topics ranging from cutting-edge semiconductor technologies to the integration of artificial intelligence in electronics manufacturing. These keynote sessions provided attendees with a panoramic view of the industry’s current state and its trajectory into the future.
One of the workshop’s highlights was the Innovation Showcase, where pioneering companies and startups unveiled their latest technologies and solutions. From breakthroughs in chip design to revolutionary packaging techniques, the Innovation Showcase provided a glimpse into the industry’s next frontier. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with innovators, fostering a collaborative environment for the exchange of ideas and potential partnerships.
The IEEE EPS IESA Workshop 2023 features an array of technical sessions and workshops delving into specific aspects of electronics packaging, semiconductor manufacturing, and emerging technologies. Industry experts led these sessions, offering deep dives into topics such as 5G integration, advanced packaging materials, and the impact of quantum computing on semiconductor design. The interactive nature of these sessions facilitated meaningful discussions and knowledge sharing among participants.
The workshop also prioritizes networking opportunities, recognizing the immense value of collaboration in driving the industry forward. Attendees also get the chance to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential collaborators through structured networking events, fostering relationships that could pave the way for future innovations and partnerships.
1, Dec 2023
Max Life’s e-commerce channel achieves 55% YoY + growth in H1 FY24
New Delhi, December 1, 2023: Max Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (“Max Life”/ “Company”) has announced that the e-commerce channel has achieved a 55% YoY growth in total online sales and over 100% YoY growth in APE for H1 FY24. Over 30% of policies were sourced through the online channel in the first half of the fiscal year. Backed by a strong surge in direct-to-customer online sales, Max Life has strengthened its position as one of the industry leaders in overall online sales and in the online protection market.
In the first half of FY24, Max Life achieved a substantial market share within the online domain, including continued leadership in the online protection segment. The strong presence is driven by the company’s strategic focus on product innovation customized for online customers, investments in digital capabilities, and user experience. Some of its highest-selling offerings include the NIFTY Smallcap Quality Index Fund, the Smart Fixed-Return Digital Plan (guaranteed savings), the Smart Secure Plus Plan, and the Online Savings Plan (ULIP).
V. Viswanand, Deputy Managing Director, Max Life said, “Max Life’s remarkable e-commerce growth in H1 FY24 reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of digitally-savvy customers. Our aim is to establish our footprint across multiple digital touchpoints and provide an omni-channel experience to our customers. Our digital strategy is rooted in enhancing accessibility and availability of insurance products, anchored to the vision of ‘Insurance for All’.
Max Life attributes its e-commerce growth to digital initiatives aimed at ensuring frictionless onboarding and superior customer service. Offering personalized experiences by creating a mobile-first purchase and unique WhatsApp-led chase journey, Max Life has enabled sharper prospecting and built a robust digital marketing muscle.
1, Dec 2023
Normet launches Charmec Revo(R) – the revolution in underground explosives charging
Normet proudly introduces the latest innovation in improving operator safety underground; Charmec Revo. With a half of a century of expertise in explosives charging and the latest technologies in the market, we deliver a revolution to underground explosives charging.
Explosives charging is one of the most hazardous work processes in modern underground mining. Easily available ore deposits are depleting – forcing mining companies to go deeper underground where risks of rockfalls and rock burst accidents are increasing. The only tangible way to improve operator safety is to remove the operator from the high exposure danger zone, meaning the unsupported area of the tunnel – like Charmec Revo does. The remote-controlled robotic arm places the initiating system into the borehole and, in conjunction with the emulsion kit, dispenses emulsion, allowing the operator to remain in a supported tunnel area away from the danger zone.
The system is developed for tunnels from 4 x 4 meters up to 6 x 6 meters, which covers most of the underground mining tunnels. The charging manipulator consists of an in–house developed servo-robotic arm with extremely agile movements – built robustly to fulfill the need of underground mining conditions.
Drilled borehole maps from the drill rigs can be uploaded to the system to locate the boreholes in the face wall, when machine vision system, fully developed by Normet, guides charging hose automatically to the drilled boreholes. If the map is not available, the machine vision helps the operator to locate the boreholes. Once the borehole is found, the charging hose delivery system will take care of the priming unit and explosive delivery to the borehole.
The system uses collision free path planning to define the safest route for the arm during the operation. If an obstacle or operator appears to the arm’s operating area, the arm slows down and stops its movement before contact.
The Charmec Revo system can be adapted to use any commercially available wired, semi-wireless or wireless initiating systems. The priming unit can be handled manually or by magazines provided by explosives suppliers. The initiating system magazine is placed on the platform next to the charging arm, enabling priming unit’s unique pick and deliver –method to be deployed.
The Charmec Revo platform is the latest generation front cabin carrier available with either the latest diesel engine emission rating or SmartDrive battery-electric architecture with zero local emissions. The load capacity of Charmec Revo is 6000 kg, meaning up to 4000 kg matrix capacity can be mounted safely onto the rear platform away from the hot surfaces. A large bulk tank capacity reduces the need for back and forth driving between charging sites and explosive warehouse, which increases productivity significantly and helps to keep the charging machine in good condition. As with initiating systems, Charmec Revo can be used with all commercial bulk emulsion systems.
“We have extensively tested the Charmec Revo technology in underground mining and it has demonstrated its ability to improve operational safety while retaining similar productivity. Ease of use and low learning curve ensure effortless implementation of this technology” says Anssi, Product Line Director of Explosives Charging.
At Normet, we believe that the Charmec Revo, with its groundbreaking servo-robotic remote arm and ability to use any commercially available initiating and bulk systems, leads the way to safer and more efficient explosives charging operations.
1, Dec 2023
SBI wins prestigious “Marketing Maestro” award at the HOMETHON Property Expo
Mumbai, December 1, 2023: The State Bank of India, the country’s largest lender, bags “HOMETHON Marketing Maestro at the HOMETHON Property Expo, a three-day extravaganza that happened in Mumbai.
Mr. Atul Save, Minister of Housing, Maharashtra inaugurated the event in the presence of Mr. Sandeep Runwal President NAREDCO, and Mr. Niranjan Hiranandani. The SBI stall at the event received a grand opening by Mr. Atul Save, celebrity couple – Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, Mrs. Usha Gautam, CGM, SBI, Mr. G S Rana, CGM, SBI, and other officials of the bank. The stall was also graced by Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, Dy. Chief Minister, Maharashtra.
Under the ‘SBI Festive Delight’ campaign, the bank at the expo facilitated instant home loan approvals at concessional rates, further solidifying its commitment to providing financial solutions tailored to the needs of its customers. The bank remains dedicated to playing a pivotal role in fulfilling the dreams of aspiring homeowners across the nation.
1, Dec 2023
CRC Group Organises Inter-School Painting Competition Under Spirit Of Noida Campaign
Noida: CRC Group, NCR’s leading real estate entity, hosted the 13th Annual Inter School Setu Shikshajyoti Painting Competition at Mayoor School, Sector 126, Noida. The event, held under the banner of the ‘Spirit of Noida Campaign’, brought together 381 participants from 51 schools, including NGOs, special needs schools, and public institutions. The event was graced by the chief guests, Mr. Salil Kumar (Director, CRC Group), Mr. Himanshu Goyal (CFO, CRC Group), Mr. Ravi Kaul (Chief Trustee, Setu Foundation) and the guest of honour Ms. Alka Awasthi (Principal, Mayoor School Noida).
Kenisha Agarwal from Sarvottam School emerged victorious in the 2-5 class category, while Priyanshi from Anubha Global School bagged the first prize in the 6-10 class category from the individual schools. Simultaneously, Prateek Prasad from Ankur Anawa Trust School bagged the first prize in the 2-5 class category, and Nandini Verma from Om Foundation emerged victorious in the 6-10 class category.
The competition served as a unique platform where children from diverse backgrounds, including those with special needs and underprivileged youngsters, joined hands with their peers to express their imagination and creativity through art. The competition was pivotal in encouraging children to think outside the box, explore their creative potential, and translate their imagination onto canvas. The event not only showcased the artistic talents of the participants but also provided the audience with a glimpse into the world as seen through the eyes of these young artists. This initiative fostered a sense of unity and understanding among the younger generation.
Speaking about the event, Mr. Salil Kumar, Director, of CRC Group, stated, “We are proud to be a part of an initiative that celebrates diversity and creativity among our youth. The Setu Shikshajyoti Painting Competition was a part of our commitment to creating an inclusive platform for children to express themselves, irrespective of their background. Through such events, we aim to contribute to the holistic development of our community.”
1, Dec 2023
On World Computer Literacy Day, writer Mandakini Dwivedi on adapting to technology: Was excited to learn but also a bit scared
In the past, writers crafted their thoughts with pen and paper, a tradition that evolved as technology advanced. Computers, followed by laptops, phones, and tablets, became the new medium for writing. Change is gradual; some adapted swiftly, while others, particularly in the heartland of India, took their time, catching up gradually. As we celebrate World Computer Literacy Day on December 2nd, a global observance dedicated to promoting digital skills, writer Mandakini Dwivedi from Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, shares her journey into the world of computers and its transformative impact.
Mandakini, a talented writer from Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, joined Pocket FM during the Covid-19 pandemic. Formerly a teacher and counselor in a government organization, fate led her to take a chance on life by joining the global audio series platform. While she used to write with pen and paper in her early writing days, joining Pocket FM introduced her to the world of computer writing.
Reflecting on this shift, Mandakini said, “I’m new to writing stories on the computer. I did write in a diary before. It’s a bit different; the computer feels a bit heavy. I was excited to learn but also a bit scared. I wondered, ‘Can I do this? Can I make a living?’ Tasks that took one hour with a pen now take three on the computer. There were moments of doubt, but I believed in myself. It was a chance to try something new without spending money. I left my city and kept writing. It took time, but eventually, my computer became faster than using a pen.”
Acknowledging the challenges in the transition, Mandakini shared, “Suddenly, everything changed with the first computer screen. I didn’t spend much time, and my eyes hurt from staring at the computer all day. There were health problems and changes in my writing style. Change is tough; it starts in the gut. But I made it a habit to ignore problems and focus on writing. That’s where I found my challenge. Over time, what used to take three hours to write now only takes one. This victory is big for me because I write just for a day.”
In a message for those hesitant to adopt technology, Mandakini expressed, “We’re in the age of technology, especially AI. If you don’t adapt and update and stay relevant, changing trends and time will leave you behind. Embrace the paperless trend because social media and technology are everywhere. If you’re not creatively inclined, social media is there at your disposal. But if you want a new identity, you have to become tech-savvy. It’s the computer age, and being tech-savvy is the way to go.”
Mandakini has penned the successful audio series ‘Amrapali’ for Pocket FM, and *when asked about listeners’ response, she mentioned, “Even today, listeners comment for Amrapali, saying she should continue. Even after the show ends, both new and old listeners keep sharing positive feedback and comments. They’re eagerly waiting for the next season of Amrapali Nemzhu. It has given the series a new identity, and I never expected this much love from people after the show ended. Reading those happy comments makes all the worries and fatigue in the day disappear.”
