16, Oct 2023
AU Small Finance Bank announced ‘Heart to Cart Shopping festival offers, with attractive cashback and discounts
Mumbai, 16th October 2023: This festive season, AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB), India’s largest SFB known for bringing the best offers throughout the year, has unveiled exciting festive offers under the ‘Heart to Cart” Shopping Festival campaign on AU Credit Cards and Debit Cards. The grand festive extravaganza ison from October 15th, 2023to November 15th, 2023. The festivities extend across many leading merchants on a diverse category encompassing mobile phones, electronics, apparel, household appliances, food & grocery, entertainment, travel, health, utility, furniture, and merchant EMI.
The major highlight of AU SFB’s ‘Heart to Cart” Shopping Festival is that it provides exciting offers across shoppingfestivals of all major e-retailer platforms. AU SFB will have over 30 Marquee brand associations and the Merchant EMI offers are live across 60+ brands and merchants. Customers can avail exciting offers on leading electronic brands like Reliance Digital, Croma, Tata CLiQ, Vijay Sales, Gostor.com; travel portals like Yatra, cleartrip, EaseMyTrip; online grocery retailers like bigbasket, Blinkit, JioMart, Instamart; food delivery apps like Zomato, Swiggy, Domino’s; and others like BookMyShow, PharmEasy, to name a few. Besides, AU Small Finance Bank will reward 1115 Lucky Spender with delightful surprises like premium smart phones and Amazon Vouchers.
During the ongoing cricket matches of India, AU SFB have amplified offers on food order & dining category with Zomato Match Day special offers. Customer can avail 20 per cent off (upto Rs 200) on online orders and 20 per cent off (upto Rs 1,000) on dining, while watching all these exciting matches.
For Navratri and Dussehra, AU SFB presents nine days of exclusive merchant offers, including:
– Rs 200 off on Swiggy orders and SwiggyInstamart
– 20% discount (up to Rs 1,000) on Tata CLiQ
– 20% discount (up to Rs 200) on Blinkit
– 20% off on Zomato online orders and dining
– Buy One Get One offer (up to Rs 250) on BookMyShow
– 15% discount (up to Rs 3,000) on domestic flights and up to Rs 10,000 on international flights with Yatra and ixigo
– 10% discount (up to Rs 2,000) on Gostor.com.
For Dhanteras, enjoy a 5% Cashback on Jewelry purchases using AU Credit Card.
Besides this for retail customers, AU SFB is also giving special festive offers on home loans, trade forex, gold loans and locker. Home loan customers can avail a waiver of 0.25 per cent on processing fees. The Gold Loan customers can get zero processing fee on loans upto Rs 3 lakhs. Locker customers can get extra 10 pe cent off on yearly rentals of lockers. Trade and forex services are offered at attractive pricing that includes 100 per cent FD backed InLand Bank Guarantees/Letter of Credit pricing at 1 per cent per annum and retail remittances forex margin (Family maintenance/ Gift/ Education purposes) with 50 per cent discount.
As AU SFB continues to expand its digital presence through the AU 0101 app, these festive offers are expected to further boost digital penetration among customers. During the festive seasons customer can avail attractive offers on recharges, bill payment, gift card and bus tickets booked on AU 0101 app.
While announcing the ‘Heart to Cart” Shopping Festival offers, Uttam Tiberwal, Executive Director of AU Small Finance Bank, stated, “Over the years, AU SFB has consistently rewarded and engaged our customers with enticing offers year-round. As a retail bank with strong presence across rural and semi-urban India, we understand the value and importance of festivals which brings friends and family together. During this festive season, with our latest campaign, ‘Heart to Cart” Shopping Festival offers, we take commitment to our customers and their happiness to newer heights. With this campaign, we’ve expanded our range of rewards and choices in collaboration with leading brands and local merchants. Our focus now extends beyond major brands and includes hyperlocal brands, ensuring convenience and customer-centricity. We are offering attractive cashback and discounts on credit cards, debit cards via digital app AU0101 as part of our multi-channel strategy. Our ultimate aim is to make our customers’ festive moments even more joyful and fulfilling.”
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- By Rabindra
16, Oct 2023
Relaxo Handed over 38 Govt. Schools to SMC & Education Department in Haridwar
India, 16th October 2023: Under the Parivartan Model School Project of Relaxo Footwear’s Limited an event was organized on 10th October 2023 to Hand Over the 38 Government schools (35 of Khanpur Block and 3 of Laksar Block) to School Management Committee and Education Department, where the infrastructure intervention work is completed in 2022-2023.
The chief guest for the event was Mr. Bansidhar Tiwari (IAS) – State Project Director- Samagra Shiksha Uttarakhand, along with him Dr. Mukul Kumar Sati- Additional State Project Director- Samagra Shiksha Uttarakhand & Mr. Sushil Batra- Chief Financial Officer- Relaxo Footwears Limited were present as special guests.
The event was also graced by Ms. Deepti Yadav- BEO Khanpur, Mr. J.P. Kala- BEO Laksar, Mr. Tomar- BEO Bahadrabad, Mr Gambhir Agrawal- CSR Head- Relaxo, Mr. B.P Mandoli- Staff Officer- Samagra Shiksha Uttarakhand, Mr. Vijay Thapliyal- Coordinator- Samagra Shiksha Uttarakhand, Mr. Neeraj Awasthi- Unit Head Relaxo Haridwar, Mr. Anil Dhiman, Mr. Sunil Dimri – Relaxo Haridwar, Mr. Jaiveer Kaushal, CSR Coordinator, Haridwar, Mr. Sudhir Uniyal, Coordinator, Samagra Shiksha, Haridwar.
Mr. Gambhir Agrawal, Head CSR, Relaxo gave a brief introduction about all the project activities starting with 13 Government Schools in Phase 1 of project and as on date total 104 (Phase 1 to Phase 4) Government Schools of Khanpur & Laksar Block, Haridwar District. He briefed about the two main aspects of the Parivartan Model School Project i.e. Infrastructure Development (New Construction/Renovation) of Main Gate, Boundary Wall, Stage, Roof Water Proofing, Age appropriate Hand washing station, flooring etc.
He highlighted that 89 new toilet blocks have been constructed in 51 schools. Building as a learning aid (BALA) which is a great Teaching-Learning tool is given importance and BALA designs were installed inside & outside of the entire school premise which is very beneficial for both teachers and students. Apart from this various trainings, meetings, sensitizing sessions are also organized with/for Teachers, School Management Committee (SMC) Members, Students, Parents and Community as well.
Showing his gratitude towards Relaxo’s ‘Parivartan Model School Project’ work, Hon. Chief Guest Mr. Bansidhar Tiwari himself presented a bouquet to both Mr. Sushil Batra & Mr. Gambhir Agrawal.
Hon. Chief Guest Mr. Tiwari highlighted the significance of physical infrastructure and stressed on the importance of community involvement in schools. He encouraged parents to take an active interest in their children’s education, highlighting the role of teachers and parents in shaping the future of the country. The efforts put behind grooming the students and bringing out the leadership qualities among students through Bal Mantri Mandal & other Co-Curricullar activities being organized in schools under the project were also highly praised by him.
He said that we are very happy that Relaxo is working relentlessly in the remote areas like Khanpur & Laksar and also requested to take up Kasturba Gandhi & Netaji Subhash Schools under this program as well. He appreciated the work of bringing community in the support of government schools by creating Education Support Groups of local people who are volunteering in solving the local issues and also to strengthen the Management and support teachers and SMC’s of the respective schools.
The presence of representatives of PRI, Community members, Parents etc., in this event is a strong proof that this Parivartan Project has successfully engaged them for the betterment of Rural Education system.
He said that Relaxo’s Parivartan Model School Project has come up as a classic model of the partnership of corporate, government and community.
Special Guest Dr. Mukul Kumar Sati said that we are very happy that Relaxo has come up to partner with and support the Education department in the infrastructure works and capacity building activities in the schools taken under this project which is directly benefiting the children of rural background, their parents as well as our teachers. He also announced that the Hon. State Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, Uttarakhand has asked to put up the proposal of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose residential school in village Lalchandwala.
Mr. Sushil Batra, CFO, Relaxo welcomed all the dignitaries and said that any good social work is possible only through the collaborative partnership with all the stakeholders, here I am happy that State and District officials of Education Department are appreciating the effort of Relaxo and also acknowledging the same he urged the local community members to come forward and provide the best possible support.
BEO, Khanpur, Mrs. Deepti Yadav thanked Mr. Agrawal and team of project for regularly working in direct contact with all the Teachers, Students, Parents and other stakeholders. When this project was started in 2018, since then we all are working as one unit to bring the necessary changes in the quality education and infrastructure of the respective areas.
Mr B.P. Maindoli, Staff Officer, Samagra Shiksha, Uttarakhand said that until now we have only heard and seen the works done under this project through the communications done by Mr. Agrawal but today I am very happy and impressed to see that whatever they have communicated to the education department is less than the actual works done by them.
Chief Guest and other dignitaries formally welcomed the students of GPS Karanpur by giving education kit (3 notebooks, a drawing book and a pencil kit). To be noted that the long pending drain water issue from nearby houses is resolved and the construction work intiated in March 2023 is completed and the school is now ready to restart the classes in its own campus.
The same Education kit will also be distributed to all the students of 77 schools (Phase 1 to Phase 3) of this project.
During the event various stakeholders such as the members of Bal Mantri Mandal- Ms. Iram-Education Minister, GPS Lalchandwala, Ms. Nikki- Prime Minister, GPS Balchandwala, Ms. Janvi- Prime Minister, GPS Bhurni; Mr. Narendra Kumar, Ms. Bhawna (SMC Members); Mr. Tirath Pal & Mr. Rahu Verma (ESG Members); Mr. Shubham & Ms. Pooja (Parents) shared their views on different activities of the project.
The event was attended by PRI members, Teachers, SMC members, Parents, ESG members and the people of various villages.
16, Oct 2023
Cosmo First (erstwhile Cosmo Films) launches Cosmo Plastech – thin wall containers and sheets
Mumbai, 16 October, 2023: Cosmo Films a global leader in speciality films for packaging, labelling, synthetic paper, and lamination applications announces the launch of its new business division- Cosmo Plastech. This strategic move aligns perfectly with the company’s vision of offering a diverse range of packaging solutions to its valued partners for a wide array of FMCG products, providing enhanced supply chain efficiency.
Speaking on the launch, Mr Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo First said, “We, at Cosmo First, have proudly pioneered industry-first solutions for the past four decades. As the demand for FMCG products soars, the need for innovative packaging solutions becomes significant. With the launch of Cosmo Plastech, we aim to empower our clients and consumers with cutting-edge rigid packaging solutions, all while upholding our unwavering commitment to sustainability. This marks a significant step in our journey towards a greener future, where a positive change in the packaging industry sets the stage for a circular economy.”
Cosmo Plastech’s containers are well-designed, offer excellent clarity and are manufactured to serve the food and beverage industry especially. Prioritising product recyclability, Cosmo Plastech has also introduced a recycling programme to ensure that the packaging solutions don’t reach landfills, fostering a culture of positive change and contributing to a circular economy.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Sanjay Chincholikar, Business Head – Technical Films & Rigid Packaging said, “Cosmo Films is proud to announce the launch of Cosmo Plastech. Our containers ensure durability, reliability, and moisture resistance thereby setting an innovative benchmark in the packaging world. With Cosmo Plastech, we look forward to meeting the industry’s evolving demands eco-consciously. Our strategic move to establish Cosmo Plastech reflects the company’s commitment towards excellence in sustainable packaging solutions.”
The packaging containers are made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and reliability using injection moulding and thermoforming techniques. Cosmo Film’s expertise in Rigid packaging solutions combined with state-of-the-art machinery ensures that the products are moisture-resistant and tamper-proof. This makes the solutions of Cosmo Plastech an alternative to traditional packaging practices.
16, Oct 2023
HCLTech recognized as a Leader in Everest Group’s ACES Automotive Engineering Services PEAK Matrix Assessment 2023
NOIDA, India, Oct 16, 2023 — HCLTech, a leading global technology company, has been recognized as a Leader in Everest Group’s ACES (Autonomous, Connected, Electric and Shared) Automotive Engineering Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2023.
According to Everest Group, HCLTech has an extensive portfolio of IP around telematics platform, battery management systems and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), supported by a strong and growing ecosystem of partners.
“HCLTech has a multitude of offerings around Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), crash assistance systems, battery management systems, infotainment, telematics and charging solutions,” said Nishant Udupa, Practice Director at Everest Group. “These offerings are further backed by investments in developing solutions, establishing labs and CoEs and a robust partnership network in the aforementioned areas. Clients have appreciated HCLTech’s flexibility to adapt to project requirements, commercials, their access to wider talent pool and strong domain knowledge in the ACES space. The acquisition of ASAP has further helped HCLTech to strengthen its capabilities in areas such as e-mobility and autonomous driving. All these factors have helped HCLTech emerge as a Leader in Everest Group’s ACES Automotive Engineering Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2023.”
“In the rapidly evolving automotive engineering services sector, HCLTech has emerged as a global Leader, distinguished by our multi-vertical expertise and extensive experience in traditional and digital engineering. With the addition of ASAP Group, a leading German automotive engineering service provider, we have further strengthened our position and influence in the market, reaffirming our diverse portfolio and our commitment to deliver exceptional value to our clients. With the ACES segment all set to transform the future of mobility, we are proud to be associated with the leading automotive companies in their transformation journey to make transportation safer, more efficient and sustainable,” said Hari Sadarahalli, Corporate Vice President, Engineering and R&D Services, HCLTech.
HCLTech is uniquely positioned to partner with enterprises seeking to leverage digital technologies to transform their business. As the automotive industry undergoes a radical transformation, HCLTech remains at the forefront, driving innovation and shaping the future of mobility.
16, Oct 2023
NMIMS Chandigarh Hosts Panel discussion on “Careers of 21st century-How your Master’s Program can unlock new opportunities”
Chandigarh, 16th October 2023: SVKM’S NMIMS Chandigarh campus successfully organised the ‘SEED Business Masters Conclave’at its University campus. The event provided an exclusive opportunity to third and fourth-year NMIMS students and recent NMIMS alumni aspiring to pursue a Master’s in Business Administration program in the United States of America and Europe to interact with notable senior delegates from top-ranked global universities and explore career opportunities abroad.
Senior delegates from top-ranked global institutions, namely, Dr. Shivraj Kanungo, Vice-
Dean, George Washington University School of Business; Ms. Christine Gozdziak,
Assistant Dean of International Partnerships, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, GIES
College of Business; Dr. Arman Davtyan, Assistant Dean, Pepperdine University,
Graziadio Business School; Ms. Amanda Barth, Assistant Dean, William & Mary, Raymond A. Mason School of Business; Ms. Richa Agrawal, Country Manager, Bocconi University, graced the NMIMS Chandigarh campus and enlightened aspiring students about the diverse programs and opportunities provided at their eminent institutions.
The informative event turned out to be an important platform for students to interact in person with the globally acclaimed delegates. They received an insightful deep dive into the programs that could potentially transform their careers. The speakers further shared information about scholarships and financing opportunities available to aspiring students willing to pursue a Master’s education abroad. Students were also provided with the best strategies to secure admission to the university of their choice.
The ‘SEED Business Masters Conclave’ was an initiative in NMIMS’ commitment to provide a global outlook to its students and broaden their perspectives. Events of prominence like the Business Conclave are components of the all-encompassing education experience provided at NMIMS.
Dr. Jaskiran Kaur, Campus Director, NMIMS Chandigarh, said, “The ‘SEED Business Masters Conclave provided an opportunity for NMIMS Chandigarh students to discover global business management education avenues. The Conclave was a platform for management students to interact with global luminaries and gain an international perspective.”
Shivraj Kanungo, Vice Dean, Graduate Programs, George Washington University School of Business, said, “At the George Washington University School of Business, we have a truly welcoming global campus with a learner base of 2,70,000 students. The landscape of undergraduate education is transforming and we at GWSB welcome students and provide them a chance to customise their undergraduate education.”
Richa Agrawal, Country Manager, Bocconi University, Milan, Italy, said,“Bocconi University is the pioneer of digital programs in Economics, Finance and Business Management education. We are a vibrant campus and welcome students from all over the globe. Seventy per cent of the students at our university are international students. We are ranked 3rd amongst top universities in Europe and among the top 10 across the globe.”
Amanda Barth, Associate Dean of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment at William and Mary School of Business, University of Illinois, said, “William and Mary School of Business, University of Illinois, is considered as one of eight original Ivy League Schools in the United States. With our rich history and legacy, we welcome students to explore our specialised Masters of Accountancy and Masters of Science of Business Analytics programs.”
16, Oct 2023
Saba Azad talks about her latest release Who’s Your Gynac?, and explains how observation is the key to get into the character
Mumbai, 16 October 2023: Amazon miniTV – Amazon’s free video streaming service, latest medical drama series, ‘Who’s Your Gynac?’ has received plenty of praise since its release, for its strong message and light-hearted narrative. The series is a beautiful exploration of emotions with a tinge of comedy, addressing women’s health concerns. Saba Azad is seen in the role of Dr. Vidushi, an OB-GYN who believes in being a friend of her patients, alongside her co-stars Karishma Singh, Kunal Thakur, and Aaron Koul.
Talking about key preparations for any role, Saba revealed how she believes in the power of observation. She said, “In addition to the obvious work of developing the character’s inner and outer world outside of the existing text, I believe that rehearsing and truly knowing your script is highly underrated. I can only speak for myself when I say rehearsal sets me free; it adds to my spontaneity as opposed to the popular notion that it actually takes it away. Also staying constantly curious helps, I like people watching. If you’ve been observant you can empathise or find a convincing connection with nearly any character, even if they’re totally different from you. Outside of that, it’s pretty straightforward — the script is god just do what it’s asked of you.”
Being praised for her impeccable comic timing in Who’s Your Gynac?, she further shared her perception of the comedic genre. “Comedy can be tricky, there is a fine line between being funny and over-the-top cringey. I have always enjoyed comedy and I find the script is the king as far as comedy goes. Does it come naturally to me? I don’t know, maybe. I am however unafraid to make a fool of myself on camera which helps in a way”, she shared.
Unfold the journey of a Gynac filled with drama, emotions, love, and quirky-confused patients with Who’s Your Gynac? streaming live on Amazon miniTV, for free within the Amazon shopping app, on Fire TV, and on Playstore.
16, Oct 2023
InQube 2023: A National-Level Business Competition Concludes at Shiv Nadar University, Delhi NCR
Delhi NCR, 16 October 2023 – Shiv Nadar University, India’s youngest Institution of Eminence (IoE), successfully concluded the third edition of InQube, a national-level business competition organized by its School of Management and Entrepreneurship. The team from Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR emerged as the winner in the multifaceted competition, followed by the team from LNM Institute of Information Technology, Jaipur as the runner-up. The theme of the three-day event (October 13 to 15, 2023) was ‘Sustainability & Innovation’ and the winners won cash prizes of up to INR 5 lakhs. The event was graced by Mr. Srikant Sastri, Co-Founder & Board Member, Crayon Data and Chairman, 13g Advisory Network as the esteemed Chief Guest and Mr. Narayanan Ramaswamy, Partner & National Lead, Education & Skill Development Sector, KPMG India as the special guest at InQube 2023.
In a multifaceted competition designed to discover, challenge, unite, and reward India’s undergraduate young minds, InQube 2023 witnessed the enthusiastic engagement of more than 7,500 students hailing from an impressive array of over 360 renowned institutions spanning more than 225 cities across the country. Some of the participating institutions were IIT Bombay; IIT Madras; NIT Jalandhar; IIT Patna, Christ University, Bengaluru; Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, and numerous others.
Dr. Bibek Banerjee, Dean of the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), Shiv Nadar University, and the creator of InQube, stated, “Entrepreneurship is a central goal of the School of Management & Entrepreneurship, Shiv Nadar University and with InQube, we wanted to seed this spirit in the ecosystem. This year’s edition of InQube has once again proven that our young minds are the driving force behind innovation and sustainable business practices.”
Mr. Narayanan Ramaswamy, Partner & National Lead, Education & Skill Development Sector, KPMG India said, “InQube 2023 has provided a platform for the young, innovative minds to showcase their prowess in sustainable business practices and innovation. It is impressive to witness the dedication and intelligence of all the participants in driving positive change. KPMG India is happy to be a part of the event and appreciate the efforts taken by Shiv Nadar University’s School of Management & Entrepreneurship (SME) in bringing this unique platform alive.’’
The winners, Namit Arjaria and Parth Jhunjhunwala from Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR shared their thoughts, saying, “We were thrilled to have been part of the InQube competition. We personally experienced new ways in which academia and industry collaborate to innovate and co-create at the School of Management & Entrepreneurship at Shiv Nadar University. We wholeheartedly encourage others to seize the opportunity and participate in this remarkable experience that InQube has offered us.”
The grand finale round was anchored by renowned quiz master, Venkatesh Srinivasan, CEO and Co-Founder at Nexus Consulting India. A total of six teams made it to the grand finale which encompassed 40 questions and 6 competitive rounds. Teams included two participants each from BITS Pilani, Hyderabad; IIT Patna; The LNM Institute of Information Technology, Jaipur; Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR; Shaheed Sukhdev College of Business Studies, New Delhi respectively. With a diverse range of challenges, participants were challenged to think critically, develop strategic plans, and present their ideas in a competitive environment.
InQube is a platform that fosters collaboration, networking, and mentorship opportunities, not only within the academic community but also with industry leaders. With its emphasis on the triple bottom line – people, planet, and profit – InQube 2023 was not just a competition but a journey towards a greener and more prosperous future, emphasizing the importance of responsible business practices and innovation.
16, Oct 2023
ABP Network’s ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit launched to a Grand Opening to celebrate the Spirit of South India
16th October 2023|Chennai Strengthening the endeavour to celebrate the collective progress and sociocultural richness of India’s Southern states, the first-ever edition of the ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit was launched today at Chennai.
Sharing the context and setting the overview of The Southern Rising Summit, Avinash Pandey, CEO, of ABP Network, said, “The South has already risen. It tells us that when Governance is dedicated to people to improve their health and education; it will be a success. The Southern states have the highest GDP and lowest population growth rates. The story of South is the story of the human spirit.”
Speaking on the role of the Governor, Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, Hon’ble Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, said, “The Governor is a bridge and a bridge not only to the central and state governments but also to the people. There should be a good relationship between the CM and Governor.”
In his keynote address, Udhayanidhi Stalin, Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development, Govt of Tamil Nadu, said, “A bigger conspiracy is being hatched to punish the Southern States for their good performance through the impending delimitation exercise of Lok Sabha Constituencies. In the 1970s, the Union Government promoted the population control program. The South Indian states implemented the program effectively. Their population growth rate slowed in comparison to states that did not implement the program well, whose population continued to grow at a higher rate. This effectively reduced the population share of the South Indian States. Today, this is being used against us. As you all would know, the Constitution mandates that each state must receive seats in proportion to its population, and constituencies should be of roughly equal size to the population.”
The event also witnessed the presence of renowned actor, Rana Daggubati, popular actress and director Revathy, and music composer, environmentalist and 3 times Grammy Award Winner Ricky Kej who shared their thoughts on a wide ranging issues during the Summit.
Speaking during a session titled ‘India on the World Stage: Rhythm Divine’, Ricky Kej, said,” When it comes to climate change, India is making significant strides. Concern in India on climate change is much larger than anywhere in the world.”
As the summit’s attendees hung on to every word, noted public intellectual, author, and commentator, Gurcharan Das’s session delivered an impassioned address on the pivotal role that freedom plays in shaping human progress. He eloquently stated, “A lot of people, like me, are in the middle of the political spectrum; and I am a liberal. Being a liberal, you are on a lonely road, as there’s no one to vote for.”
Amid the grandeur of Summit, an extraordinary musical journey unfolded in the form of “Making Music: Crafting A New Style.” Featuring the brilliant talents of Mahesh Raghvan and Nandini Shankar, two musical luminaries who have left an indelible mark on the world of music, this session enthralled the audience with its unique blend of tradition and innovation.
As the audience leaned in, P. Thiaga Rajan, Hon’ble Minister of Information Technology & Digital Services, Tamil Nadu, delved into the manifold benefits of federalism, remarked advocating for federalism in India stating, “The notion of democracy is that a thousand voices should be heard. We should try and figure out policies; if that doesn’t work, we should recalibrate and readjust.”
A compelling panel of political visionaries, who converged to explore the future of India in a session titled “Whose New India? Past, Imperfect, or Fast Forward.” The panel, featuring John Brittas, Narayanan Thirupathy, and M V Rajeev Gowda, delivered a mosaic of contrasting viewpoints.
John Brittas, a Member of Parliament (CPIM), said, “India is a multi-religious country and you can only have democracy when you have free and independent media. ” He further adds, “India has a rich history of welcoming all cultures and boasts a diverse heritage. South India is the home of reformists. With 18% of the population, we contribute 35% to the GDP.
Narayanan Thirupathy, Vice President of the BJP said, ” Many say BJP can’t have a foothold in Tamil Nadu. In the last 60 years, it is the BJP that has been growing in the state more than other parties. We have done very well; our booth committee is very strong. There is a big vacuum in the absence of Jayalalitha and Karunanidhi, and BJP will definitely fill the vacuum. Definitely, the BJP is going to form the government in 2026.”
Contributing to the discussion and presenting a unique angle M V Rajeev Gowda, Vice Chairperson, State Institute for Transformation of Karnataka and Ex-Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha (INC) said “We are experiencing a BJP-free South India. In Karnataka, we saw corruption. The contractors wrote letters to the PM complaining about corruption. We need to provide people with fair prices and a safety net. This is something Congress will continue in the country. The Nyay scheme is also a safety net for people. We are expected to win Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh in a spectacular way.”
Countering to that John added, “The BJP can maintain its optimism, as everyone has the right to dream of coming to power in Tamil Nadu in 2026.”
In the session, “Mahatma Forever: Why We Need Him Now,” Prof. Gopalkrishna Gandhi, former Governor of West Bengal clarified that Gandhi did not seek immortality or was not keen on being relevant.
“It was the people from the South India who propelled Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi in South Africa towards’ struggle for India’s dignity in South Africa.” Prof. Gopalkrishna Gandhi, said speaking about the South Indian connect with Gandhi. He outlined, “No South India in South Africa, no freedom struggle led by Gandhi in India”
In a world where social media exerts a profound influence, ABP Network’s ‘The Southern Rising’ Summit unfolded a captivating session, provocatively titled “Social Media: Playground or Business School?”
Speaking at the session, Chaithania Prakash, a digital content creator, shared her perspective, saying, “As influencers, we have a responsibility to ensure that nothing negative impacts our followers. We make sure the content we provide is of high quality to avoid any negative influence on our followers.”
Ardhra Sajan, another Digital Content Creator, spoke about her journey, stating, “Initially, we didn’t know what to do on social media. Our follower count gradually increased, which brought a sense of responsibility.”
Highlighting challenges, Deepika Venkatachalam, another noted digital content creator said, “Some influencers are promoting betting apps, which negatively affect people’s lives, and I find this distressing. Everything is becoming digital, and people are seeking shortcuts. We have a responsibility to follow laws and use hashtags for paid collaborations to make it clear to viewers that it is a promotional partnership.”
During the session, “Women in Politics: A Different Kind of Leader,” Ms. Jothimani Sennimalai’s, said, “To empower women in politics, there’s a need for fundamental changes in the party structure. At the party level, men are present in various positions starting from the local government to the district level. If such opportunities are given opportunities especially to women through that experience they can perform better even when they come to power”
In the session, “General Election 2024: Who Wins, Who Loses?” political heavy weights intensely debated on the upcoming elections.
K. Annamalai, State President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for Tamil Nadu, said, “BJP Tamil Nadu is an ambitious party, and we are determined to reach our goals. The upcoming 2024 elections are pivotal, with just seven months to go. BJP’s comeback in Tamil Nadu in 2024 will solidify our party’s position.”
To this, Kavitha Kalvakuntla, Member of Legislative Council (MLC) – Kamareddy & Nizamabad, Former Member of Parliament (MP), BRS Party countered, “People don’t want power-hungry parties. The people want a decisive Government. She further added, “We are neither with Congress nor BJP. I.N.D.I.A, the alliance will crumble. Post-poll alliances have historically worked, while pre-poll alliances have not. I believe every party will need to rethink their strategy.”
On being asked that India alliance may crumble, Karti P Chidambaram, Member of Parliament for Sivaganga (INC), “It is the Congress party which is present in all 5 southern states. The alliance will not crumble. In these 5 states, INC will perform exceptionally well.”
Speaking at the session, “Making New Myths – Recreating the Old”, Suhasini recalled how Maniratnam made the historic epic Ponniyin Selvan. “I asked him not to make this film. After the failure of some of the politic-historic films we make, I was uncertain, if this idea would work,” she revealed and further added, “The thing that worked for the success of PS, was the fact that the story of Ponniyin Selvan has been there in our culture. People loved it even before we made it.”
Speaking at the session, ‘Reinvention and Resurgence – Staying Alive in the Movies’, celebrated actress turned politician, Kushboo Sundar, shared a reflection from her personal life, “I slept like a log after coming out in open of being a victim of child sexual abuse. There’s nothing for me to be ashamed off.”
The Southern Rising Summit was conceptualized and instituted by ABP Network as a tribute to the exceptional growth, cultural opulence, and societal harmony exemplified by the southern states of India. It aimed to celebrate the spirit and richness of southern states, united on a singular mission of driving a transformative journey for India. The summit witnessed profound deliberations and sharing of insights by the movers and shakers of South Indian states and Union Territories.
16, Oct 2023
Karnataka Tourism Showcased its Rich Heritage at IITM Mumbai 2023
Karnataka Tourism proudly marked its presence at the IITM Mumbai 2023 from October 12th to 14th, 2023, with an impressive 150 -sq. mts exhibit at Nehru Centre, Worli Annie Besant Road. The prestigious event provided an ideal platform for the state to showcase its abundant heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse tourism potential to an enthusiastic and diverse audience.
The three-day event garnered an exceptional response from visitors, travel professionals, and industry experts; all enthralled by the abundance of Karnataka’s tourism offerings. The stand beautifully showcased the heritage architecture of Hoysaleswara Temple. Additionally, the branding prominently featured the heritage temples of Karnataka, all of which highlighted Karnataka’s temple heritage. The Karnataka Tourism stand at IITM Mumbai 2023 delivered an immersive experience, enticing visitors to delve into the rich heritage tapestry and embrace the wonders that Karnataka has to offer.
The Karnataka Tourism stand was visited by esteemed dignitaries, including Mr. Rajesh Poddar – Chairman of Western Region, TAAI, Mr. Dharmendra Singh – Chairman, Western India- ADTOI, Mr. Burjis Mehta – President, SKAL International, and Mr. Tariq Hussain Naik – CEO, Jammu & Kashmir Tourism. They were presented with a bouquet during their visit to the Karnataka stand. The pavilion included various tourism service providers from Karnataka, such As AB Travels South India, Welwet Travel Pvt. Ltd. Rivido Hotels & Resorts LLP, Intersight Tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd., Aglaonema Resort and Spa, Coorg, Mysore International Travels Pvt. Ltd., Hotel VBR Grand Inn, Cintacor Island Resort (VHF Resort), SBIT Travels Pvt. Ltd., TGI Hotels & Resorts, The Quorum Hotel, Quality Holidays and Cars Pvt. Ltd., Holiday Monk, Karan Tourist, Vayu Travelcloth Pvt. Ltd., Hotel Golden Castle ( a unit of Arjuns Comforts Pvt. Ltd.), Niraa Wellness, Blue Bird Tours and Travels, Hotel Malligi Pvt. Ltd. and Ibni Spa Resort, further highlighting the comprehensive tourism experiences available.
Throughout the event, the Karnataka Tourism delegation actively engaged in profitable discussions with domestic tour operators, travel agents, and other key stakeholders. The primary objective was to reinforce existing partnerships and establish new collaborations, thereby bolstering tourism to the beautiful state of Karnataka.
Karnataka Tourism’s prominent presence at IITM Mumbai 2023 served as a testament to its unwavering commitment to showcasing the state’s extraordinary potential and captivating offerings. The event garnered an exceptional response, with numerous visitors and trade partners displaying a keen interest in Karnataka’s diverse tourism offerings. With its incredible diversity, Karnataka stands as a premier tourist destination throughout the year.
The resounding success of Karnataka’s participation at IITM Mumbai 2023 underscores the state’s tremendous potential in attracting tourists not only from Mumbai but also from beyond its borders. Karnataka continues to shine as an alluring gem in India’s tourism landscape, inviting travellers to discover the magic it holds within its boundaries.
16, Oct 2023
Goa Carbon Limited and BITS Pilani, K K Birla Goa Campus signs MoA
Mumbai, October 16, 2023: Goa Carbon Limited (GCL), India’s leading manufacturer of Calcined Petroleum Coke, and BITS Pilani, K K Birla Goa Campus, have formalized a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to collaborate on long-term research and development initiatives focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and operational excellence.
Under this strategic partnership, BITS Pilani, Goa Campus will leverage its expertise and resources to study current operational parameters. It would develop a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model for efficient plant operation, ensuring predictable outputs while adhering to environmental norms.
Mr. Shrinivas Dempo, Chairman, Dempo Group and Goa Carbon Limited, and President, Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) said, “It is a momentous occasion for Goa Carbon as we sign the MoA with BITS PIlani. We have been the front-runner is adopting best practices to achieve operational excellence & sustainable growth. The association is yet another testament to our unwavering commitment towards innovation, sustainability, and driving positive change in our industry and community”.
Commenting on the MoA, Mr. Anupam Misra, Executive Director of Goa Carbon Limited said, “This collaboration between Goa Carbon and BITS Pilani, Goa Campus underscores our commitment to our core values, including integrity, fairness, solicitude, teamwork, innovation, and social responsibility. It is our constant endeavour to remain proactive in exceeding environmental standards and raising operational benchmarks for the benefit of our stakeholders. Much of our Calcined Petroleum Coke (CPC) is supplied to the strategic Aluminium industry and we also want to contribute positively towards achieving the sustainability objectives of our valued customers”.
Prof. Suman Kundu, Director of BITS Pilani, Goa Campus, expressed his delight regarding the MOA, stating, “The collaboration with GCL is both a prestigious honour and a recognition of our institution’s expertise. Our skilled faculty members’ research capabilities would continue to bolster the efficiency of industries in all spheres of operations and also share the best practices across industries to meet their ESG objectives.
The MoA was signed by Mr. Anupam Misra, Executive Director, Goa Carbon Ltd and Prof. Suman Kundu, Director, BITS Pilani, Goa Campus in the august presence of Mr. Shrinivas Dempo, Chairman, Dempo Group and Goa Carbon Limited, and President, Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI); Prof. S D Manjare, Professor of Chemical Engineering, BITS Pilani, Goa Campus; Prof. Meenal Kowshik, Dean – Administration, BITS Pilani, Goa Campus; Dr. Amol Deshpande, the Principal Investigator of the project, and other senior officials of BITS Pilani and Goa Carbon.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment towards sustainability and operational excellence and marks a significant step towards a greener and more responsible future.
