9, Oct 2023
United Way Bengaluru Celebrates 15 Remarkable Years of Impactful Service
9th October 2023: United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) marked a significant milestone this year as it completed its 15-year journey. To commemorate the journey, United Way Bengaluru organized an event called ‘REFLECTIONS’ on October 5, 2023. Esteemed chief guests and delegates who graced the event hosted at Taj West End, Bengaluru, included Shri B Dayananda, Commissioner of Police, Bengaluru City; Shri Krishnakumar Natarajan, Co-Founder Mela Ventures and earlier Co-Founder at Mindtree; Shri Prashanth Prakash, Board Chairperson of United Way Bengaluru and Partner at Accel; Dr M Jagadeesh, Joint Director, Lalbagh Botanical Garden; senior government officials; leadership from UWBe’s key corporate partners, changemakers from the community and other board members of UWBe.
Established in 2008, United Way Bengaluru started its transformative mission, beginning with Bengaluru, tackling the pressing challenges of the community. Over 15 years, the organization’s reach extended beyond Karnataka to eight other states, with a special focus on remote areas and aspirational districts. UWBe experienced exponential growth in capacity and impact, making substantial contributions through interventions in education, environment, health, and integrated rural development.
Here are some high-level achievements from United Way Bengaluru’s incredible journey:
• Over 800,000 beneficiaries have been positively impacted through education interventions
• Over 100,000 community members have benefited from lake rejuvenation efforts
• Interventions around education, health, livelihood, quality drinking water and sanitation and environment across 300 villages
• More than 4000 Anganwadi Centres and 130 schools strengthened
• During the pandemic, the organization administered over 1.5 crore vaccinations, demonstrating its commitment to public health
United Way Bengaluru has left a mark beyond numbers, statistics, and data – it’s about the people, the stories, and the dreams it has ignited.
As a part of the global network, United Way Worldwide, the largest network of non-profit organizations with 1,100 chapters in 37 countries, United Way Bengaluru carries a global image with a ‘local heart’ committed to creating meaningful change in the lives of the local communities.
The event featured keynote speeches, panel discussion on the topic ‘Bold CSR’ and ‘recognitions’ presented to United Way Bengaluru’s long-standing partners from the government, CSR, and community who have supported the organization.
The other attractions of the event included the unveiling of the organization’s 15-year journey book, titled ‘REFLECTIONS and the launch of new flagship programs such as ‘Aikyam’ that aims to create safe spaces for persons with disabilities and the LGBTQI+ communities and ‘E-O2: Let the Earth Breathe’ Campaign that covers all aspects of united Way Bengaluru’s work aligned to the fundamental pillars of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework. The event also marked the launch of the Born Learning Campaign’s (an initiative focused on early childhood care and education) playbook.
Prashanth Prakash, Board Chairperson of United Way Bengaluru, said, “These 15 years are a testament to our tireless work, persistence, knowledge, and experience. But no single entity, no matter how passionate or dedicated, can bring about the transformative change we aspire to achieve alone. This journey has been possible with the partnership where the government, CSR partners, volunteers, community members and UWBe collaborated and complemented each other. We cannot rest on our laurels but use our past experiences for our future responsibilities. We must continue working with our partners, dream big, work tirelessly, and unite for a brighter, more equitable future for all.”
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- By Rabindra
9, Oct 2023
BSE Today Launched futures contracts for base metals and options on futures in precious metals and energy
Mumbai, October 9, 2023 –BSE today launched contracts in options on futures in precious metals and energy (WTI crude oil and Brent crude oil) contracts and futures contracts on base metals like copper, zinc, and aluminum on 9th October.
These commodity contracts will provide market participants (particularly corporates, value chain participants, and foreign portfolio investors) an efficient way to manage their commodity price risk against volatility.
9, Oct 2023
Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition of AEROX 155 launched
India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. today launched the 2023 Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition of AEROX 155. The special MotoGP Edition for the AEROX 155 will get the Yamaha MotoGP livery on the overall body. In addition to this, the model is now equipped with a Class D Headlight offering improved distribution of light and enhanced visibility on roads.
The Yamaha AEROX 155 features a Traction Control System (TCS) and is powered by a new generation 155cc Blue Core engine equipped with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). Mated to a CVT transmission, the liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve motor produces a max power output of 15 PS at 8,000rpm with 13.9 Nm of peak torque produced at 6,500rpm. The Maxi-sports Scooter by Yamaha is E20 fuel compliant, has an onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) System, and also gets a hazard system as a standard feature.
Along with Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition, the AEROX 155 is available in four colors: Metallic Black, Racing Blue, Grey Vermillion, and Silver.
9, Oct 2023
Empowering Physically Disabled Individuals Through Technical Education
By – Mr. Gaurav Sengar, Founder of NICS EDUCATION
Access to education and opportunities is essential for both individual and societal development in the ever-changing world of today. However, people with physical disabilities frequently confront particular difficulties that obstruct their access to education and subsequently reduce their level of economic independence. Technical education is a promising approach to solving this problem.
The Obstacles Physically Handicapped People Face
Physical impediments, social stigmas, and constrained opportunities are just a few of the challenges faced by those with physical disabilities. These difficulties may cause a feeling of exclusion and impair their general well-being. The cornerstone of empowerment is education, and technical education can be crucial in overcoming these barriers.
The Transformative Potential of Technical Education
1. Inclusivity and Accessibility:
Institutions of technical education are increasingly recognizing the importance of accessibility. To ensure that people with physical disabilities may participate completely, policies like wheelchair ramps, adapted technologies, and accessible classrooms are being implemented. Everyone can succeed in an inclusive learning environment as a result.
2. Skills Development
Practical knowledge and practical skills are the main focus of technical education. This method allows people who are physically impaired to develop skills that are not primarily dependent on physical strength or movement, which is very advantageous for them. Technical education offers a diverse array of professions in which disabled individuals can thrive, such as graphic design, electronics, and programming
3. Career Possibilities:
Individuals with technical education receive job-ready skills, which improves their employability. Physically handicapped people can pursue employment in areas like computer programming, web development, graphic design, or technical writing with the correct training. Physical constraints are further removed by the opportunities for remote work that these professions frequently provide.
4. Self-assurance and Independence:
All forms of education foster self-assurance, including technical education. Physically challenged people gain confidence and a sense of independence as they pick up technical skills and knowledge. Their newly gained self-assurance has a good effect on both their personal and professional lives.
According to Mr. Gaurav Sengar, Founder of NICS EDUCATION
Through technical education, individuals with physical challenges can be empowered to lead fulfilling lives, make meaningful contributions to society, and break down the long-standing barriers that have hindered their progress. This extends beyond merely granting them access to knowledge. We can anticipate a future where physical impairments no longer serve as obstacles to both personal and professional success, as technical education institutions prioritize inclusivity and accessibility, while society becomes increasingly aware of the potential of disabled individuals
9, Oct 2023
Double Blessings Await: Astrologer Parduman Suri Advises on Sarvapitri Amavasya and Indra Yoga Alignment
Sarvapitri Amavasya is a special day to honour and satisfy your ancestors. This year, it holds even more significance because it coincides with the last solar eclipse of the year, known as Shanichari Amavasya. To observe this special occasion, Celebrity Astrologer Parduman Suri, India’s Youngest Astrologer, Vastu Consultant, India’s Nostradamus awardee, and Motivational Speaker, unlocks some insights.
Sarvapitri Amavasya spans two days, starting on October 13th and ending on October 14th at 11:25 pm. If the 14th of October falls on a Saturday, it is considered Amavasya. This day also witnesses the formation of Indra Yoga, an auspicious planetary alignment. Even if you’ve already performed Shraddha for your ancestors, it’s advised to do it once more on Sarvapitri Amavasya for the well-being of your known and unknown ancestors.
On this day, Shraddha is performed for ancestors who passed away on Amavasya or whose date of death is unknown, including ancestors preceding your grandfather. If you couldn’t perform Shraddha during Pitru Paksha, you can do it on Amavasya.
Worshipping the Peepal tree is crucial during Sarvapitri Paksha since it’s believed that ancestors reside in these trees. Offering water to the Sun and Peepal trees is a sacred practice. This time, Sarvapitri Amavasya lasts for two days, allowing you to worship the Peepal tree anytime between 9:51 a.m. on October 13th and the entire day on October 14th. Sarvapitri Amavasya is also known as Mokshadayini Amavasya, a day to please and satisfy your ancestors through offerings.
To honour your ancestors on this day:
If you already offer water to the Sun, do so while meditating on your ancestors and praying for their peace.
Offer water to the Peepal tree, as it is believed to quench the thirst of all ancestors.
Offer water with black sesame seeds to your ancestors, which bestows blessings upon all household members. Mixing water with milk, sesame seeds, kusha grass, flowers, and scent is considered ideal.
Panchabali, offering a portion of food to cows, dogs, crows, deities, and ants, is a sacred tradition. Pray for blessings from your ancestors with devotion
Make sure to share a meal with your sister, son-in-law, and nephew-niece, as it brings happiness to your ancestors. After the meal, express gratitude to all known and unknown ancestors and apologize for any mistakes committed by you or your family members, knowingly or unknowingly
9, Oct 2023
Grip makes investing in Corporate Bonds and SDI as easy as investing in Stocks
New Delhi, October 9, 2023: Grip, an OBPP-licenced platform for fixed-income investment, has become the first to completely implement a full tech journey of the Securities and Exchange Board of India’s (SEBI) Request for Quote (RFQ) API. The RFQ integration on Grip now provides retail investors an opportunity to invest in India’s emerging and booming Corporate Bond and Structured Debt market as easily as investing in stocks, while ensuring all investments are securely settled through the NSE, with the clearing corporations handling fund and securities transfers directly. The integration also allows for more and more investors to explore Bonds and Securitised Debt Instruments offerings by investing small amounts, easily paid through more common methods of payment like UPI and NetBanking.
Grip’s RFQ implementation aligns with SEBI’s goal to boost liquidity in the debt securities market in India. SEBI’s RFQ mechanism effectively addresses challenges, including delayed securities transfers and large initial capital requirements, for debt securities allowing a secure and efficient means to invest in fixed-income instruments for investors.
Grip’s RFQ implementation enables investors to purchase bonds and SDIs at lower investment amounts, often 50% lower. The payment process is streamlined as users can directly transfer funds to the exchange via a payment gateway, eliminating the need to add beneficiaries and ensuring security. Additionally, the time required for securities to reflect in the Demat account has been reduced from two days to just one day, simplifying transaction tracking.
On integrating the RFQ interface, Aashish Jindal, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer, stated, “From an investing lens, fixed-income investing provides a more predictable and secure income stream than stocks, and often a more attractive risk-reward. However, traditionally the lack of transparency, due to delays in transferring securities and large capital investments, has steered investors away from investing in debt securities. With the RFQ integration, retail investors can now enjoy all the protections and convenience of buying fixed-income instruments like corporate bonds and SDIs on Grip. With this integration, we’re empowering our users to take control of their investments with confidence, ensuring that they have the tools and resources they need to achieve their wealth creation goals.”
Retail investors can now purchase securities in multiples of just 1 unit, with no large minimum order quantities for SDI. Investors now also have the flexibility to make payments using UPI as a payment mode for transactions or Net Banking from a registered bank account such as HDFC, ICICI, Kotak, Axis, City Union, etc., via NSE’s payment gateway.
“The Indian debt market is poised for growth, and SEBI’s introduction of RFQ mechanism for retail fixed income transactions represents a noteworthy step in addressing investor concerns. Grip’s RFQ implementation has ushered in a new era for online investors, making investing in corporate bonds or SDI as easy, transparent and secure as investing in equities. With the RBI pausing interest rate hikes, market participants are now increasingly interested in investing in debt securities such as LeaseX, InvoiceX, LoanX and BondX to capitalize on high-interest rates,” said Nikhil Aggarwal, Founder and CEO.
Grip will go live with the RFQ integration on October 6, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. and will become the first OBPP-licensed Platform to Implement a full tech-based RFQ journey.
9, Oct 2023
CII IWN Telangana organises the ‘Leadership Conclave 2023’ – UPLIFT: A Gender Equal DigitALL Future
Hyderabad: October 09, 2023: CII IWN Telangana organized the ‘Leadership Conclave 2023’ – UPLIFT: A Gender Equal DigitALL Future at The Westin, Hyderabad. Dr G Satheesh Reddy, former Scientific Adviser to Raksha Mantri and President of The Aeronautical Society of India inaugurated the Conclave and Mr Joe Schulz, Vice President and Global Chief Information Officer, of Carrier Digital delivered a Keynote address.
Dr Satheesh has mentioned that government departments are actively promoting gender parity across all their sectors and are witnessing growth in various dimensions as a result.
Mr Sai Prasad, Vice Chairman of CII Telangana and Executive Director of Bharat Biotech International Limited, called upon CII IWN to focus on supporting women in the informal sector by promoting digitalization. He articulated his aspiration for achieving 50% gender parity across all sectors by the year 2047.
Ms Srividya Reddy, Chairwoman, CII IWN Telangana & Vice Chairperson, GNITS Hyderabad extended a warm welcome to all the participants at the Conclave. She emphasized that digital transformation has the potential to narrow the gender equality divide.
Ms. Shobha Dixit, Immediate Past Chairwoman, CII IWN Southern Region and Director, Alpla; Ms. Tanuja Abburi, Vice Chairwoman, CII IWN Telangana & DEI Lead, Amazon; Ms. Shweta Kirkire, Sci/Engr- ‘SG’, Space Applications Centre (ISRO); Dr. Rashmi Pimpale, Chief Executive Officer – Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH), Government of Telangana; Mr. Sanjeev Deshpande, Convenor – CII Telangana Digital Transformation, IT & Startups Panel & Head of APAC Region, MD-India, NTT Data Business Solutions were the prominent speakers along with the others at the conclave.
The conclave witnessed 350 participants and explored themes such as Women in Design and Innovation, Digital Transformation in the Workplace, and the Role of Technology and Women in Policy and Governance.
9, Oct 2023
BenQ Introduces the V5000i: A Revolutionary 4K RGB Laser TV Projector for Elevating your Cinematic Experience
Bangalore, 9th October 2023: BenQ, a leading provider of advanced display technology solutions, proudly introduces the V5000i, a groundbreaking 4K RGB Laser TV Projector, poised to redefine the home entertainment experience. With a focus on delivering the pinnacle of innovation, unrivaled color precision, and exceptional audio quality, the V5000i is set to elevate the world of home cinema to unprecedented heights. It’s the perfect replacement for big-screen TVs, especially suited for well-lit spaces like expansive living areas. Featuring Google-certified Android TV, it effortlessly grants access to streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, rendering external devices obsolete. This intelligent projector also seamlessly supports voice assistants, mirror casting, and connectivity through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
The V5000i, proudly from BenQ, the No. 1 4K projector brand in India, marks its debut in the realm of RGB laser TV technology, ushering in a new era of visual excellence while ensuring a long-lasting and color-consistent home cinema experience. It achieves this by harnessing the power of CinematicColor technology, which masterfully covers an astounding 95% of the BT 2020 color spectrum and an impressive 98% of DCI-P3, delivering a display that immerses viewers in lifelike and vivid colors that breathe life into their favorite movies and shows.
However, the V5000i offers much more than exceptional visuals; it boasts an integrated 40W speaker system, featuring dual 5W tweeters and dual 15W woofers. This audio setup not only guarantees superior sound quality but also delivers deep and powerful bass, enveloping viewers in a truly cinematic audiovisual journey.
Mr. Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India & South Asia, shared his thoughts on the occasion, stating, “We are thrilled to unveil the V5000i, a revolutionary milestone in home entertainment technology. BenQ remains steadfast in our mission to redefine visual excellence, and the V5000i represents our relentless pursuit of delivering unparalleled experiences. Our dedicated team has spared no effort in exceeding the expectations of our discerning customers. With the V5000i Laser TV projector, we are poised to transform home entertainment, bringing the enchantment of the silver screen directly to our customers’ homes. We have unwavering confidence that this latest addition to our lineup will revolutionize the industry.”
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
· Exceptional Color Accuracy: Achieving an impressive 95% BT 2020 and 98% DCI-P3 color gamut, the V5000i ensures every hue is faithfully reproduced. The integration of CinematicColor technology guarantees viewers will savor images with natural and true-to-life colors.
· High-Definition Immersion: Equipped with 2500 ANSI Lumens of RGB Laser brightness, the V5000i projector delivers breathtaking 4K Ultra HD resolution, resulting in vivid and razor-sharp picture quality. This projector is a game-changer for those seeking a cinematic experience within the comforts of their homes.
· Immersive Sound: Elevating the experience further, the V5000i comes with a built-in Hi-Fi audio system featuring 40W speakers, including 5Wx2 tweeters and 15Wx2 woofers. The 2300cc chamber design enhances sound output, delivering superior audio quality with deep, resounding bass.
· Smart Entertainment Hub: The V5000i serves as a comprehensive entertainment hub. With Google-certified Android TV, it offers effortless access to streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, eliminating the need for external devices. This smart projector also supports voice assistants, mirror casting, and connectivity through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
· Installation Flexibility: One of the unique selling points of the V5000i is its remarkable installation flexibility. With a throw ratio of 0.252 and options for auto screen fit, manual screen fit, and ceiling mounting (thanks to 2D keystone correction), it adapts effortlessly to diverse room layouts. HDMI eARC compatibility for external 5.1/7.1 speakers adds to its versatility.
AVAILABILITY
· Available through all leading Retail Home AV System Integration Partners and BenQ Brand online store
9, Oct 2023
MTR Foods creates water conservation capacity of 40 million litres in Karnataka in partnership with Myrada
Bengaluru, 9th October 2023 – MTR Foods, a pioneer in packaged foods, has created a water conservation capacity of 40 million liters in Karnataka, in collaboration with Myrada, a non-governmental organization, operating in underdeveloped and drought-prone regions. The initiative will improve water storage capacity and its supply in the local community through building and renovating village ponds to harvest rainwater and recharge groundwater. MTR Foods is investing Rs. 10.6 million towards this project to significantly benefit the region.
The project is situated in and around Bommasandra area. Improving local supply of water, created rooftop harvesting system and recharge pits in 3 schools in the region. Water ponds have been renovated and constructed in. Additionally, a new tank/ pond construction has been done in Anekal The capacity created will directly impact around 5000 lives and households and is expected to successfully replenish 40 million liters of water in the near future. This will positively influence the regional ecosystem and benefit the local community.
Commenting on the same, Sunay Bhasin, Chief Commercial Officer, MTR Foods Pvt. Ltd. said, “We believe it’s important to consistently support our community. The water conservation project in Karnataka is a part of our sustainability initiatives and aims to help improve water access in the area. It will benefit local households and the respective schools with more water now being made available. We hope that this improved access will enable better quality of life in the region and positively impact the ecosystem.”
Previously, on the occasion of World Environment Day 2023, MTR Foods reinforced its commitment towards the environment by initiating a comprehensive cleanup drive at Madiwala Lake. The initiative aimed not only to clean the area but also to raise awareness about responsible waste management and the importance of preserving natural water bodies.
9, Oct 2023
This Durga Pujo, Licious brings together the ghotis & bangals over an extensive spread of meaty delights
9th October 2023: The intra-community rivalry between the ghotis & bangals has made for some fun banter over the years. No family gathering in a traditional Bengali household is ever complete without members of each side striving to establish one-upmanship, be it on culture, language, sports, or food. As this contest of words and wit ensues, this Durga Pujo, Licious brings peacetime & festive fervour with an extensive spread of meaty delights.
In its latest film, the brand brings together the ghotis & bangals to celebrate the spirit of Pujo with Bengal’s best – Hilsa, Prawn, Mutton, and much more! The film now live on Licious’ Insta and YouTube pages, showcases a chapter from the book of ghotis v/s Bengals that ends at the dining table with a mouth-watering feast of kosha mangsho, malai curry, bhapa ilish, muitha, ilish bhaja and pabdar jhal.
Santosh Hegde, Vice President of the brand at Licious, says: “The Durga Pujo film underscores our belief that good food has the power to unite even the most spirited cultural rivalries. And there is no better way to celebrate the rich Bengali heritage than through its flavoursome cuisine. Armed with our expertise in meat & seafood, we have the leverage to offer specialized products & cuts to ensure our consumers have a memorable Pujo celebration. So whether you are a ghoti or a bangal, whether you prefer hilsa, prawn, or mutton – Licious has you covered this Pujo!”
The film is set in a bustling Bengali household, abuzz with vibrant decor and preps for Durga Pujo. The dinner table is set with the choicest of dishes and meaty delights, right from ilish macher bhaja, muita, pabdar jhal, kochi pathar jhol, and more. Just then the lady of the house gets teased by her ghoti relative on whether the spread today features bangal specialities or are there any ghoti delicacies as well.
For the uninitiated, people originating from East Bengal (now Bangladesh) are referred to as ‘Bangal’ and those hailing from West Bengal are called ‘Ghoti’. With witty banter and humourous rejoinder, the debate continues in true Kobir Lorai style (a poetic volley of words between 2 people, set to a tune & aimed at outsmarting each other) as the lady and her ‘opponent’ continue to take a dig at each other’s cooking styles, choice of fish and more.
The rhythmic beats of the dhak add to the tempo of this Lorai; onlooking family members cheer on, at times even singing along. Who wins, you wonder; of course, the meaty delights by Licious do! Young family members intervene to remind us that this isn’t the time to argue, but it’s the time to come together & enjoy the delightful spread that’s brought the family together, all thanks to Licious. Amidst laughter & marked by the festive spirit, the family rejoices with the delicious Pujor Mahabhoj made with Licious’ offerings for the season, forgetting all about their differences. After all, tasty meaty delights from Licious are what every ghoti and bangal would unanimously bond over this Pujo season.
