13, Nov 2023
PMR’s Festive Fervor: Spreading Joy with Elders and Children this Diwali!
New Delhi, November 2023: In the radiant spirit of Diwali, the festival that illuminates lives and spreads joy, PM Relocations Pvt. Ltd. (PMR), a global relocation firm, has embraced the true essence of the occasion. Demonstrating compassion and a commitment to making a positive impact, PMR reached out to the elderly residents of NEMA Eldercare, as well as the underprivileged children supported by the Robinhood Army (RHA) and Harmony House those in need during this festive season.
Ms. Aakansha Bhargava, CEO of PM Relocations Pvt Ltd expressed, “I am extremely happy and thrilled to be kickstarting the festive season this year with something so special and meaningful. Each year, PMR tries its best to plan activities that help us give more and more to society, as well as ensure that everyone feels an integral part of the ongoing festive celebrations in India. Our excitement stems from our desire to use PMR’s platform towards the betterment of members of society, be it the elderly community or children from underprivileged sections of society.”
On this auspicious occasion, the team at PMR joyfully volunteered at the NEMA Eldercare to seek the blessing of elders. During their visit, the team played games with the elders, shared sweets, and was honored to present the residents with wheelchairs. One of the volunteers expressed their profound joy saying, “Interacting with the elders today filled my heart with joy, and connecting with them was truly blissful.”
Continuing their festive activities, PMR celebrated Diwali with the children of RHA and Harmony House, two notable charitable organizations for aspiring little kids. PMR volunteers orchestrated engaging activities with children such as diya painting and card making. Apart from these sweets were distributed to share the sweetness and harmony on the occasion. The children at Harmony House delighted the team through a captivating welcome performance.
With a steadfast dedication and longstanding commitment to the advancement of sports, PMR has taken the initiative to empower the potential of budding athletes at Harmony House and decided to aid in building a sports infrastructure for the children, actively supporting the dreams of young talent this Diwali.
PMR shares a long-term and heartwarming connection with the institutions dedicated to the well-being of children and the elderly. As a kind gesture, the children from Lakshyam Foundation and Dream Girl Foundation visited the PMR House to joyously celebrate Diwali together. Their lively performances and shared cheers spread an air of delight, making the event memorable.
Additionally, PMR has an ongoing charity drive to donate clothes for elders and children, along with an ongoing toy bank donation at their offices across the country. They are committed to significantly contributing and empowering young children and elders through their initiatives.
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- By Rabindra
13, Nov 2023
Goldmedal Celebrates the Spirit of Diwali with a New Ad Campaign ‘Ghar Ghar Lagta Hai’
India, 13th November 2023: Goldmedal Electricals, one of India’s leading electrical manufacturing companies, has released a new digital video ad campaign in time for Diwali. The campaign showcases several of Goldmedal’s products, including doorbells, LED lighting, and home automation solutions, against the backdrop of friends and family visiting a home during the festival of lights – with the voiceover highlighting the core message that it is the joy that loved ones bring with their presence that truly makes a “home feel like a home” (‘Ghar Ghar Lagta Hai’).
Conceptualized by FoxyMoron, the campaign is a heartwarming reflection on the important role that friends and family play in making joyous occasions feel complete, while also depicting how Goldmedal’s products elevate your festive experience.
Commenting on the new campaign, Kishan Jain, Director of Goldmedal Electricals said “Festivals are a time to enjoy the company of loved ones within the warmth of our homes. Goldmedal’s products, including our LED lighting, doorbells, and home automation solutions, enhance the aesthetics and comfort of your spaces and offer a convenient, hassle-free experience amidst the bustle of the festive season. At the same time, we wanted to highlight, through this ad campaign, that what truly makes our home feel complete during these joyous moments, is the presence of our friends and family.”
Speaking about the campaign, Shubit Rakshit, Business Director, FoxyMoron said “Zoo Media Network is delighted to partner with Goldmedal to introduce the ‘Ghar Ghar Lagta Hai’ campaign—a compelling illustration of synergized endeavors. FoxyMoron as the lead agency, and The Rabbit Hole as the specialist Video Marketing agency in our network, collaborated to actualize this vision. The campaign’s integrated creative strategy and lifestyle-centric narrative were meticulously crafted to resonate emotionally with consumers, effectively spotlighting Goldmedal’s diverse portfolio. Our objective was to forge a narrative that transcends a singular event, evolving into a scalable initiative seamlessly integrated across the brand and its complete product spectrum.”
13, Nov 2023
Richa Agarwal and Cleopatra Makeovers Receive Glorious Award for its achievment in the feild of Makeovers.
Bollywood Actress Bhagyashree Presented Richa Agarwal with the Prestigious Award
Richa Agarwal, Founder and ace makeover expert, Cleopatra Makeovers is proud to announce and celebrate the recent recognition it received from the esteemed Bollywood actress, Bhagyashree. The salon was honored with the Glorious Award for Best Makeup Studio Chain of the Year 2023. This prestigious award was presented to Richa Agarwal by Bollywood actress Bhagyashree. Richa Agarwal, found and makeover expert Cleopatra feels privileged to have received this recognition from these esteemed organizations. Talking about this achievement she stated,
As a leading makeup studio chain, We have consistently strived for excellence in providing top-notch beauty services to people who want to look and feel beautiful. This recognition as the Best Makeup Studio Chain of the Year 2023 is a testament to our dedication and commitment to delivering outstanding beauty and grooming experiences.
Speaking about the recognition Richa Agarwal said, ” We have always believed that this award is a reflection of our hard work, creativity, and innovation in the field of makeup and beauty. Our skilled and talented team takes pride in their ability to transform every individual into their best version, enhancing their natural beauty and boosting their confidence. The Glorious National Award for Best Makeup Studio Chain of the Year 2023 serves as a motivation for us. We will continue to provide exceptional services and stay at the forefront of the beauty industry. This achievement further solidifies our position as a leader in the field of makeup and beauty.
We celebrate this achievement and extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bhagyashree, Stylefistaa, and Runway Fashion Management for recognizing their efforts and honoring them with this prestigious award. We remain committed to offering unparalleled beauty experiences to our clients, ensuring that they look and feel their absolute best.
Richa Agarwal takes immense pride in receiving the Glorious National Award for Best Makeup Studio Chain of the Year 2023. This recognition further establishes her reputation as a leading name in the industry.” Cleopatra looks forward to continuing its journey of excellence and providing exceptional beauty services to its valued clients”, stated Richa Agarwal
13, Nov 2023
Empowering India’s Future: 5 NGOs Transforming Children’s Lives
India is home to a substantial child population, with many of them grappling with a multitude of challenges, including poverty, limited access to education, healthcare disparities, and more. Fortunately, numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) across the country are tirelessly dedicated to tackling these issues and enhancing the overall well-being of children. Below, we have compiled a list of some of the impactful NGOs in India, such as Save the Children India, and CBM India Trust, that are making a significant difference in the lives of these children.
Save the Children India is one of the largest and most well-known NGOs in India, dedicated to the welfare of children. Their work spans various domains, including education, healthcare, child protection, and emergency response. They focus on ensuring every child’s right to survival, protection, development, and participation. Save the Children operates numerous programs and projects across the country, making a substantial difference in the lives of underprivileged children.
CBM India Trust is a leading Indian not-for-profit development organization committed to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities and other marginalized communities. They are dedicated to promoting inclusive education, ensuring that both girls and boys in low-income settings have equal access to education. Their program is aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, which underscores the importance of transforming education systems to be more inclusive, particularly for children with disabilities. Additionally, they are working alongside persons with disabilities to remove cultural and environmental barriers to their full participation in health, education, and livelihood in over 25 states to break the vicious cycle of poverty and disability.
CRY – Child Rights and You – CRY is an organization that has been championing the cause of child rights in India for decades. They work to ensure children’s access to quality education, healthcare, and protection from exploitation. CRY partners with grassroots organizations and empowers communities to address the unique challenges faced by children in their specific regions.
Pratham is focused on improving the quality of education for underprivileged children in India. They implement innovative teaching methods and programs to bridge the learning gap and ensure that all children have access to quality education. Pratham’s initiatives have reached millions of children, especially those in rural and remote areas.
Smile Foundation is committed to the holistic development of underprivileged children. They provide healthcare services, education, and skill development programs to empower children and their families. Their approach is to break the cycle of poverty and improve the overall well-being of children in need.
These five NGOs in India are significantly influencing the lives of children by tirelessly striving to provide them with crucial essentials like education, healthcare, and nutrition, and safeguarding them from exploitation. By extending support to these organizations, both individuals and corporations can play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter and more secure future for India’s children. Your contribution, no matter the size, holds the power to make a tangible difference in the lives of these young souls, granting them the opportunity to flourish and realize their full potential.
13, Nov 2023
Asort Gears Up to Commemorate Its 12th Founder’s Day
Celebrating 12 Years of Innovation, Community Empowerment, and Sustainability
New Delhi, 13th November 2023: Asort, India’s pioneering co-Commerce direct-selling company in the fashion domain, is excited to announce its 12th Founder’s Day celebration, which is scheduled to take place on November 11, 2023. The company, founded in 2011, has embarked on a remarkable journey of innovation and community building to shape the future of direct sales.
Established in Mohali, India, Asort set out with a vision to revolutionize the fashion industry through a unique direct-selling model. Co-founders Roshan Singh Bisht & Nathasha Kumar and both first-generation entrepreneurs recognized the immense potential of this innovative concept and dedicated themselves to establishing Asort as India’s first co-commerce direct-selling company.
“Asort has been an inspiration of innovation and empowerment in the direct selling industry, providing entrepreneurs with opportunities and fostering a sense of community. Our journey from a single city to a pan-India presence is a testament to our commitment to redefine the game in fashion,” stated Roshan Singh Bisht, Co-Founder & CEO of Asort.
Over the past 12 years, Asort has achieved remarkable growth. From its modest beginnings in a single city, the company now operates across India, offering a wide range of products in over 13 lifestyle categories, with more than 5000 product options. In 2016, Asort successfully transitioned from an offline to a purely online platform, embracing the digital age and expanding its reach to a broader audience.
One of Asort’s most notable achievements is its support for nearly 3 lakh community partners, providing them with entrepreneurial opportunities and financial independence. These individuals have not only found a dependable source of income but have also become integral parts of the Asort community, contributing to the company’s success. Roshan expressed his deep appreciation for the unwavering support from the Asort community and the broader business ecosystem. His vision extends beyond mere business success; he aspires for Asort to emerge as the best direct-selling company in India. As Founder’s Day approaches, this celebration serves as a moment to reflect on the journey thus far and anticipate a brighter future.
“Asort’s Founder’s Day is an opportunity to express gratitude to the Asort community and the broader business ecosystem for their unwavering support. Our vision is to become the best direct-selling company in India, and our commitment to innovation and sustainability drives us forward,” emphasized Ambrish Ranjan, Executive director, Asort To mark the occasion of its 12th Founder’s Day, Asort has organized a special recognition event in Panchkula. The event will honor the top achievers among its community partners and is expected to draw 2000 attendees, including industry dignitaries and community members. It promises to be a day filled with inspiration, recognition, and a profound sense of belonging for the Asort community.
In a significant step toward a more sustainable future, Asort has introduced an initiative to transform its packaging into an eco-friendly solution. Recognizing the environmental impact of packaging in the fashion industry, Asort is committed to addressing this issue through sustainable packaging.
The fashion industry has long contributed to non-biodegradable plastic waste, leading to issues of plastic pollution and carbon emissions. Asort is determined to be a part of the solution. Their sustainable packaging initiative represents a commitment to changing the way we experience fashion while respecting our planet. Each package is now made from plant-based recycled paper, ensuring our clothing arrives at your doorstep in style while respecting nature’s balance.
As Asort celebrates its 12th Founder’s Day, the company embraces a vision of innovation, community empowerment, sustainability, and a brighter, more future-ready path for direct sales. The celebration marks a significant milestone in Asort’s journey, a journey characterized by resilience, growth, and a steadfast commitment to building a better future for all. Asort is poised to continue making history in the direct-selling industry and shaping the future of fashion commerce.
13, Nov 2023
Ekstep Foundation And PVR Nest Collaborate In“Bachpan Manao Badhte Jao” Mission to Celebrate Childhood
~ PVR NEST launches its ‘Let’s Start Doing Good’ with Bachpan Manao Badhte Jao ~
National, November 13, 2023: EkStep Foundation has partnered with PVR NEST’s ‘Let’s Start Doing Good initiative’ under the ‘Bachpan Manao Badhte Jao’ mission to showcase the ‘Bachpan Manao’ short film as a public service message in over 1000 screens of PVR INOX theatres across the country. The film made by Prakash Varma of Nirvana Films will run on PVR INOX screens from November 17 – November 30.
As part of the initiative, the mission is to launch a short film for the first time on the Big Screen that encapsulates the simple yet profound joys of childhood, the moments where children learn and grow best. This heartwarming film aims to encourage viewers to “Celebrate Childhood, Keep Growing” and opens their hearts and minds to the magic of the early and foundational years of every child. This unified effort aims to encourage caring adults especially parents and teachers to see the holistic growth of every child and understand the window of opportunity these early years present while recognizing the importance of the power of exploration and play to ensure a strong foundation for every child.
Deepika Mogilishetty, Chief of Policy and Partnerships at EkStep Foundation – Bachpan Manao says,
“The film is a call to every caring adult – mother, father, teacher, preschool educator, Anganwadi teacher, and anyone who engages with children up to the age of 8 to recognize the abundance of childhood and the opportunities it inherently provides. With simple actions and attention, we can as a society ensure the best foundation for the future of every child in India. Partnering with PVR NEST gives the mission wings as it travels to cinemas and into the hearts and minds of people, and they have generously connected it to the Let’s Start Doing Good initiative in PVR INOX screens across the country. For everyone reading this and going to the cinemas, we say carry and spread the message – Bachpan Manao Badhte Jao.”
The ‘Bachpan Manao, Badhte Jao’ mission is a collaborative effort of over 80 organizations recognizing that children learn through PLAY, living moments are learning moments, children need holistic development and children need to be given ‘Seekne Ki Aazadi’. Scientifically, it is known that the brain’s plasticity is strongest during the first 8 years and over 85% of an individual’s brain development occurs by the age of 6.
Rohini Nilekani, Co-founder, of EkStep Foundation, shared her vision for the initiative, stating, “Bachpan Manao, Badthe Jao’ is a societal mission to nurture the learning journey of India’s children by celebrating childhood itself, which is the greatest teacher of all. The youngest citizens of our country are the future. Every year, about 25 million children are born in India, and every year we have the opportunity to ensure that every generation of children is learning. Come, let’s all help to democratize the joy of learning.”
‘SDG (Start Doing Good)’ represents a collaborative effort between PVR INOX and communities, aimed at fostering dialogue, action-oriented projects, and conferences centered around the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This campaign forges partnerships with organizations dedicated to long-term commitments toward these global objectives. PVR NEST, the CSR arm of PVR INOX Limited with its belief in transforming the lives of children at risk has joined this mission by screening the Bachpan Manao launch film in PVR INOX theatres across the country as part of their “Let’s Start Doing Good’ initiative. PVR NEST invites everyone to raise the level of conversation for the sake of our youngest.
Commenting on the occasion, Deepa Menon, Founder Head, PVR NEST said, “The launch of “Bachpan Manao, Badhte Jao” marks a significant milestone in advancing early childhood development and the foundational stage in India. EkStep Foundation, co-founded by Nandan Nilekani, Rohini Nilekani, and Shankar Maruwada is incubating the growing network of 80+ organizations that are aligned to solving for the growth, well-being, and development of India’s youngest. PVR NEST supports the creation of safe urban public spaces for children and women and is happy to collaborate with EkStep Foundation in realizing every child’s fundamental right to holistic growth. It is helping reinforce the message in cinema, a powerful medium, not only for entertainment but also for reflecting and influencing society. ‘Bachpan Manao, Badhte Jao’ collection (a term derived from collaboration and action) is committed to forging partnerships that drive, sustain, and scale actions for lasting inter-generational impact”.
Adding further, Shankar Maruwada, Co-Founder and CEO of EkStep Foundation said, “This mission urges us to relook at the way we approach early childhood in today’s world. It invites us to understand, value, and celebrate the abundance within and around each child. Our role is to be a catalyst for this mission so that it can grow further, carried proudly on the shoulders of all collectors.”
11, Nov 2023
Information Technology for Education in India
Information technology (IT) is a vast and constantly evolving field that encompasses the use of computer systems, networks, and infrastructure to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data. It involves the design, development, implementation, and management of both hardware and software systems used in various organizations, businesses, and industries. IT professionals work with a range of technologies, including computers, networks, databases, and other digital systems, to solve problems, create efficiencies, and innovate in diverse areas.
Education in India has seen a significant integration of Information Technology (IT) over the years. Several initiatives and technological interventions have been implemented to improve access, quality, and outreach of education across the country. Here are some key aspects:
Digital Learning Platforms:
Online Learning: Platforms like Byju’s, Unacademy, and Khan Academy offer diverse courses and materials.
E-learning Portals: National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) and SWAYAM provide courses from IITs and other institutions.
Government Initiatives:
Digital India: A flagship program that aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society.
SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds): Provides online courses, especially for remote areas and rural students.
EdTech Startups:
Byju’s: One of the most successful EdTech startups in India, offering interactive learning programs.
Unacademy: Provides online classes and tutorials for various competitive exams.
Use of Technology in Schools and Colleges:
Smart Classrooms: Integration of smartboards, projectors, and multimedia tools for interactive teaching.
E-books and Online Resources: Many educational institutions are adopting digital libraries and resources.
Challenges:
Infrastructure: Disparities in access to technology and the internet between urban and rural areas.
Digital Literacy: Ensuring both teachers and students are proficient in using technology for education.
Quality of Content: Ensuring that the digital content provided is of high quality and standardized.
Future Prospects:
Adaptive Learning: Personalized learning experiences through AI and machine learning.
Increased Access: Improving internet penetration and access to technology in remote areas.
Skill Development: Integrating vocational training and skill development through digital platforms.
Educational paths in IT can range from certifications and vocational training to undergraduate and graduate degrees. Many universities and colleges offer specialized programs in IT, and there are numerous online courses and platforms available for learning specific IT skills.
The field is constantly evolving due to rapid technological advancements, so staying updated with the latest trends and technologies is crucial for a career in IT. Continuous learning and adapting to new tools and methods are essential in this field.
India’s journey in integrating IT in education has shown immense potential, but there’s a continual need for infrastructural development and ensuring equitable access across diverse demographics.
11, Nov 2023
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Awarded Centre of Excellence in Life Sciences Sector
Bengaluru, 11 November 2023: In a landmark achievement, the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has been recognized as the first Centre of Excellence in the Academic sector for Life Sciences. This prestigious certification was awarded by the Life Sciences Sector Skill Development Council (LSSSDC), New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in MAHE’s journey towards academic and professional excellence.
During a formal ceremony held at Manipal, Dr. Nivedita M, Senior Director of Assessment, Accreditation & Certification at LSSSDC, presented the Certificate of Excellence to Lt. Gen Dr. M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE. This momentous occasion also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MAHE and LSSSDC, laying the foundation for future skilling activities for students and faculty in the Life Sciences sector.
The Centre for Pharmaceutical Skill Development (CPSD) at MAHE played a pivotal role in earning this distinction. Under the guidance of key personnel including Dr. Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr. Giridhar P Kini, Registrar of MAHE, Dr. C Mallikarjuna Rao, Principal of MCOPS, and Dr. Anup Naha, Coordinator of CPSD, along with Dr. Srinivas Hebbar, Co-coordinator of CPSD, the institution has demonstrated exceptional prowess in pharmaceutical education and skill development.
In celebration of this collaboration, a three-day skill-based training and certification program under LS-Pro was conducted by the CPSD, MAHE, with support from LSSSDC. The program, held from November 3rd to 6th, 2023, witnessed the participation of approximately 100 pharmacy students from the Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
These students were trained and certified by LSSSDC for roles in pharmaceutical marketing and sales, further emphasizing MAHE’s commitment to enhancing employability and industry readiness among its students.
The LSSSDC, functioning under the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) and the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), plays a crucial role as an advisory and monitoring body for industry engagement in apprenticeships. This recognition from such a reputed council solidifies MAHE’s standing as a leader in the field of Life Sciences education and skill development.
MAHE’s new status as a Centre of Excellence is not just an accolade but a responsibility to continue fostering a skilled workforce that can contribute significantly to the Life Sciences sector. This achievement is a testament to MAHE’s enduring commitment to excellence in education, research, and skill development.
11, Nov 2023
Health Precautions to Take During Diwali Season
Diwali, the festival of lights, is a wonderful celebration but can also pose health challenges. The festivities often involve fireworks, which can lead to air and noise pollution, impacting those with respiratory issues or sensitivity to loud sounds. Additionally, indulging in rich sweets and treats during Diwali might not always align with a healthy diet. It’s essential to balance the enjoyment of traditional foods with moderation.
It’s a beautiful festival filled with joy and celebrations, but it also comes with some health risks, especially due to the use of firecrackers and the associated air and noise pollution. Here are some precautions to consider during the Diwali season:
Air Quality Precautions:
Avoid Firecrackers: Opt for eco-friendly ways to celebrate, like lighting diyas (lamps) or using eco-friendly crackers if necessary.
Stay Indoors: Especially during peak fireworks hours, stay indoors to reduce exposure to pollution.
Air Purifiers: Consider using air purifiers indoors to maintain better air quality.
Protect Your Ears:
Ear Protection: If you’re around firecrackers, consider wearing earplugs to protect your ears from the loud noises.
Fire Safety:
Keep Fire Safety Measures in Place: If you are lighting lamps or candles, ensure they are placed safely and away from flammable objects. Have fire extinguishers handy.
Supervise Children: If they’re handling fireworks, ensure they’re under adult supervision.
Eye Safety:
Protective Eyewear: If you’re handling fireworks, wear protective glasses to prevent eye injuries.
Pet Safety:
Comfort Pets: Many animals are frightened by the loud noises. Keep them indoors and create a safe space for them to reduce anxiety.
Healthy Eating:
Diet: Enjoy traditional Diwali treats in moderation. Opt for healthier versions of sweets or smaller portions.
Mindful Eating: With all the festive treats, try to balance your diet with healthy options and stay hydrated.
Physical Safety:
Mind Your Steps: Be cautious of any wires or debris from fireworks on the ground to avoid accidents.
Environmental Responsibility:
Eco-friendly Celebrations: Opt for eco-friendly decoration materials and minimize waste generation.
Respect Others:
Consider Neighbors: Be mindful of your neighbors who might not be celebrating and might be affected by the noise and air pollution.
Post-Diwali Clean-Up:
Dispose of Waste Responsibly: Dispose of used fireworks and other waste responsibly to keep the surroundings clean.
Diwali is a time for joy and togetherness, so prioritizing both enjoyment and well-being is key
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the festivities of Diwali while ensuring your health and safety, as well as that of others and the environment.
11, Nov 2023
Karnataka aims to attract Rs 40,000 crore investment in KHIR City
Mumbai, 11 November: The Karnataka government today deliberated on the conceptualization of the development of Knowledge, Healthcare, Innovation and Research (KHIR) City on the outskirts of Bengaluru. The government aims to attract Rs 40,000 crore investment in the areas of healthcare, innovation, and knowledge sectors besides creating 80,000 jobs in the proposed KHIR City.
The new investment region will be spread over 2,000 acres within 60 km from Bengaluru and developed in a phased manner.
Addressing the Ideation Session for setting up KHIR City, Shri M B Patil, honourable minister for large and medium industries and infrastructure development said, “We are embarking on a transformative journey to build a city that goes beyond conventional boundaries — a Knowledge, Healthcare, Innovation & Research City (KHIR City).”
He further said, “Today, we have a diverse and influential group gathered here — from the Government, Medical Institutes, Private Companies, Research Centers, and Academia, to the Strategic Investment Committee of Karnataka. It’s a convergence of minds that holds tremendous potential and I believe, collectively, we possess the potential to create not just a city but a hub of excellence.”
Apart from ensuring job creation and attracting investments from leading global and Indian hospitals and research centres, universities and private companies, the initiative has the potential to contribute towards the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) due to increased economic activity. “Besides attracting investments, it is aimed at contributing at least Rs 1 lakh crore to the state GDP,” Shri Patil said.
The captains of the Indian industry drawn from healthcare, medical education, real estate, financial services, and insurance sectors attended the ideation session and shared their suggestions.
The industry representatives such as Shri Kris Gopalakrishnan, Dr Devi Prasad Shetty, Dr C N Manjunath, Smt Gitanjali Kirloskar, Shri Prashant Prakash, Shri Nitin Kamath, Dr Deepak Venugopalan, Dr Sharan Prakash Patil, and Dr L S Shashidhar among others participated in the session.
The proposed KHIR City is being developed to attract investments from leading global and national hospitals, research institutions, universities, private companies, etc. This will help in strengthening Bengaluru’s position as a hub of medical tourism, providing employment to local people, and also help in attracting skill sets from across the globe.
“Bengaluru has the largest skilled talent pool in India and is best suited for development of KHIR City. Karnataka has a strong innovation ecosystem with many global companies’ R&D units set up here. Leading healthcare players are already present in the state. About 60% of India’s biotech companies are in Karnataka,” said Shri Patil.
With Karnataka being home to 60 per cent of India’s biotech companies and over 350 medical devices and supplies manufacturers across categories, the development of KHIR near Bengaluru, the fastest-growing innovation cluster globally, augurs as an ideal location.
KHIR City is poised to redefine the city’s global position by fostering the growth of cutting-edge knowledge institutions, healthcare facilities, innovation hubs, and research centres.
Karnataka is already among the top five states in India in terms of economic value and contributes about 8.7 percent to the National GDP. Such initiatives further strengthen the state’s position in the country.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Priyank Kharge, honourable minister for IT/BT, and S&T said KHIR City will be the first such centre of knowledge which will have innovators from healthcare, knowledge and global research centres coming together in one place. “Bengaluru will transform from being a call centre of the world to a global centre of research and innovation,” he said.
The government is planning to come out with a separate policy to promote the medical tourism in the state, said Shri Kharge. The state is home to 350 medical device and suppliers across categories and multiple institutes of excellence are present providing collaboration opportunity, he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Kris Gopalkrishnan, Co-founder of Infosys and Chairman of Axilor Ventures said, “The implementation speed is important for the development of KHIR City. We need to first develop a metro station before the KHIR City takes shape. Also, we want to generate IPs owned by India or Karnataka so that jobs and wealth is created here. We need to have an institute which trains scientists and researchers on how to move from lab to market.”
The establishment of KHIR City has a strong global reference point with the Government of Karnataka aiming to bring this research city in line with Singapore’s Biopolis Cluster or Japan’s Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster.
For this, the Government of Karnataka is agile in terms of participation of private companies offering them formats via land lease model, special-project-vehicle, and fully private models.
The collaboration effort for KHIR City would involve a comprehensive plan and a clear objective from the interested entity along with timelines. The establishment of subgroups for strategic approach is also part of the collaboration along with commercial viability to ensure balanced private and government participation.
“We can also think of miniaturising this model in revenue division and whole objective is to promote job, talent, and knowledge in regions like Mysuru etc. There is a need to build neurology institute and genetics here as it is expensive to send it to other states and countries,” said Dr C N Manjunath, Director of Jayadeva Institute of Cardiac Sciences.
The industry representatives also suggested that the government to look at improving the skills of workers in the state that will be required for the setting up of a knowledge city. They also suggested focusing on life sciences and looking at holding a roadshow to attract capital into this sector.
“We should focus on IP-based research in this City. Transitioning Karnataka from a services economy to a higher-value IP-based economy is very important. We need to incentivize job creation. We should focus on giving incentives to people who create IP and this will differentiate Karnataka from other states in the country,” said Prashanth Prakash, Partner at Accel Partners.
“It is very important that hospital groups are partners in this city. Today largest investment is in healthcare startups but they do not understand how hospitals work. Once this city supports them, then the product that comes out in the market will bring startups and end user together,” said Dr Devi Prasad Shetty, Founder and Chairman of Narayana Health.
“There is the shortage of 50-70 million healthcare workers in the country. A Paramedical university is an urgent need. We want to set that up in the country because it is the nurses and other staff that takes care of the patient and not the doctors,” Dr Shetty added.
Dr S Selvakumar, Principal Secretary to the Government, Department of Commerce and Industries, Smt Ekroop Caur, Secretary, ITBT and S&T, Smt Gunjan Krishna, Commissioner, Department of Commerce and Industries, Government of Karnataka, and other officials of the government were present on the occasion.
