10, Mar 2023
Embrace science to save lives: PMI’s CEO outlines bold vision for Tobacco Harm Reduction
Bengaluru 10th March 2023: In a special address at the recently held ET Global Business Summit 2023, Jacek Olczak, CEO, Philip Morris International (PMI) emphasised the need for leveraging science and technology for a better, more sustainable future for all. Held on February 17-18 in New Delhi, the summit was graced by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. The summit witnessed participation of global CEOs, heads of states, thought leaders, policy makers, academicians, and corporate heads. The discourse focussed upon India being poised to become a superpower as the next 25 years ‘Amrit Kaal’ of its independence will witness India regaining its glory.
Speaking on the theme ‘Sustainable economy for the greater good’ Mr. Olczak emphasised the influence of India on the world in creating an impact on the collective future as ‘One Family’. He stressed on how innovation has grown at an increasingly rapid rate globally over the past few decades with research investments having been made across a wide range of industries (like energy & automotive), leading to the development of a modern and sustainable future for all. “Science and technology integrated with a collaboration between private and public has proven to be key to identify solutions to overcome difficult challenges. And, ultimately, when adopted improve lives for all of us”, he said.
Mr. Olczak touched upon PMI’s commitment to realizing a smoke-free future, and investment in science, technology & commercialization of over USD 10 billion investment to introduce better alternatives. “We are also sparing no efforts in designing policies to accelerate the adoption of better solutions, both amongst consumers and the industry level”, said Mr. Olczak.
“Let me focus on our products. Everyone knows that smoking causes disease. And clearly the best thing smokers can do is to quit. What many people do not know is the primary cause of those diseases. The problem starts with combustion and that triggers the release of high levels of harmful chemicals in the smoke’ he elaborated. Thanks to advances in science and technology, it is now possible to eliminate combustion and replace it with controlled heating, at much lower temperatures. At these lower temperatures, these products generate significantly lower levels of harmful compounds. And by significantly lower levels, I mean as much as 95 percent lower”, he added. He also spoke about the clinical and non-clinical studies that have been conducted on PMI’s heated tobacco products and over 450 peer-reviewed publications & book chapters published on them since 2008.”
Drawing parallels with different industry sectors, Mr. Olczak spoke about the need to address a challenge at its source, thus eliminating harm-causing sources, while also working to identify safer alternatives. The same harm reduction principle that is being applied to replace cooking over wood-fueled stoves with gas-fueled cooking systems, or replacing combustion-engine vehicles with better ones, applies to tobacco also.
Taking the example of Japan, he elaborated on how the introduction of heated tobacco products in the country has led to decline in cigarette sales at an annual rate of 1.8% on average in the past few years. With the expansion of availability of heated tobacco products, almost 35 percent of cigarettes have been replaced by heated tobacco products over the last 7 years. Recent analysis from Japan has also shown a downward trend in hospitalizations for COPD. Additionally, research funded by the country’s Ministry of Health and Welfare shows there is negligible adoption of these products by minors. “Similar dynamics are being observed in several European countries”, added Mr. Olczak.
Expressing his views on oral tobacco usage in India, Mr. Olczak spoke about how the estimated 200 million users of oral tobacco in India could be offered modern, safer, oral tobacco products. These products that have benefited from scientific and technological advances exist today and can have a significant impact to public health, as has happened in Scandinavia.
He further informed that PMI’s biggest contribution to society lies in addressing the fundamental issue of cigarette health effects. Throughout the company’s history, it has been a leading player in the cigarette market. Now, the company is, very intentionally, leaving that behind, embarking on a transformation to provide adults who would otherwise continue to smoke.
“All that’s needed is for today’s innovative, science-based products to be matched by equally innovative policies that encourage people that smoke to switch to less harmful alternatives. This is where India can help drive positive change for the rest of the world. And as chair of the G20, it can be a prime example for emerging economies”, he opined.
“Innovation in the tobacco industry is finally a reality. The question we must ask ourselves is this: How do we ensure that innovations are used in the service of people? In other words, how do we leverage technology, science, and innovation to accelerate public health progress and get millions of Indian smokers away from cigarettes? Given India’s history in leveraging innovative solutions to solve issues of society, I am confident that India will be a global leader in progressive tobacco policies going forward”, he concluded.
ET Global Business Summit:
Conceived in 2015, and now in its 7th edition, Global Business Summit 2023 seeks to provide solutions to key macroeconomic challenges being faced in the current milieu by curating government-to-government interactions, business to government meetings, business-to-business engagements and to serve as a conduit for corporates and governments to secure investments from domestic and international allies that will become a part of India’s growth story.
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- By Rabindra
10, Mar 2023
Professor Ashok Jhunjhunwala honoured with the Prof. Krishnaji Memorial Lecture Award
Chennai, India – March 10, 2023: IIT Madras Research Park (IITMRP), India’s first university-based research park, today announced that Professor Ashok Jhunjhunwala, President, IITMRP was conferred with the prestigious “Prof. Krishnaji Memorial Lecture Award (2022)” by The National Academy of Sciences (NASI) on the occasion of recently conducted National Science Day.
Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, deemed a pioneer in nurturing Industry-Academia interaction in India towards R&D, Innovation, Product Development & Commercialization, was felicitated for his instrumental role in conceptualising IIT Madras Research Park, an innovation paradigm ecosystem and India’s first University based research park, envisioning necessary Industry-Academia Intervention and Incubation.
Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala was also acclaimed for his manifold contributions to Wireless Local Loop & Digital Payment Technology, Solar-DC and In-Battery Systems for Electric Vehicles, through the IITM Incubation Cell and Rural Technology Business Incubator (RTBI). Professor also served as the principal advisor to the Ministry of Power in the Govt. of India and the Ministry of Railways during the year 2017-18.
10, Mar 2023
Knee Arthroscopy Cadaveric Workshop at Kamineni Hospitals
Hyderabad, 10 March 2023: The Telangana Orthopaedic Surgeons Association conducted a successful Knee Arthroscopy Cadaveric Workshop at Kamineni Hospitals, L.B. Nagar, Hyderabad, on 9 March 2023. The workshop provided an exceptional learning opportunity for attendees from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to enhance their skills and knowledge of the latest surgical techniques in knee arthroscopy.
The workshop was conducted by experienced orthopedic surgeons. It mainly focused on practical learning using advanced equipment and cadaveric specimens. There were lectures on a range of topics, such as anatomic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, posterolateral corner reconstruction, meniscal injuries, graft harvesting technique, cartilage injuries of the knee, multi-ligament reconstruction of the knee, and Graft Selection for Knee Ligament Surgeries.
In the second half of the workshop, the attendees were given the opportunity to practice and refine their skills on cadaveric specimens under the guidance of expert instructors. The workshop aimed at creating awareness of keyhole surgeries which can result in less scarring and shorter recovery time, compared to traditional open surgery. Additionally, keyhole surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home on the same day as the surgery.
Dr. Roshan Wade, an Orthopedic surgeon and Former Secretary of the India Arthroscopy Society, said, “The workshop was an excellent platform for attendees to acquire hands-on knowledge in the latest surgical techniques in knee arthroscopy. The cadaveric specimens provided an excellent opportunity for attendees to learn and practice these techniques under expert guidance.”
Speaking at the conference, Dr. P, S. Jaya Prasad, Senior Orthopaedic Surgeon, at Kamineni Hospitals, said, “It was an honor to host this workshop at Kamineni Hospitals. The workshop provided an excellent opportunity for attendees to gain practical knowledge of the latest surgical techniques in knee arthroscopy, and we are proud to have contributed to their professional development. We look forward to hosting more such workshops in the future, which will contribute to the advancement of medical education and patient care.”
Dr. Srinivas Kasha, Senior Orthopedic surgeon Secretary of Telangana Orthopedic surgeons association Said, “The Knee Arthroscopy Cadaveric Workshop was a huge success. The attendees expressed their gratitude for the opportunity offered to learn and practice the latest surgical techniques. The workshop was attended by orthopedic surgeons, residents, and medical students from different hospitals and medical colleges across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The workshop has set a benchmark in medical education and is expected to contribute to the advancement of patient care.”
10, Mar 2023
India’s largest Study Abroad Fest across major Indian cities
March 10th, 2023: iSchoolConnect, a leading AI-enabled EdTech firm that assists study abroad aspirants, is hosting the much-awaited Study Abroad Fest across major Indian cities. Being held across Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad on 11, 12, 18, and 19th March, respectively, the event will feature representatives from 30+ global institutions from 11+ Study Abroad destinations who will interact with and counsel students. During the events, students will have the opportunity to acquaint themselves with 100+ courses and programs and avail an unlimited array of on-the-spot offers and recommendations.
Ashish Fernando, Founder and CEO iSchoolConnect, said, “We are excited to hold the study abroad fest, especially at this juncture when a large number of students in our country are aspiring to study abroad in the institutions of their choice. The event will provide an opportunity for students to interact with university representatives of renowned global institutions. Students are registering in large numbers for the event, and we expect a footfall of approximately 800 to 1000 students in each location.”
“The presence of university representatives from popular study abroad destinations is a key crowd magnet as students will get to weigh their options under one roof, “Ashish adds.
A prominent delegation of university representatives from the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Europe, Singapore, and other nations will provide students with invaluable advice at this event, assessing their prospects of admission and outlining the application and admission procedure.
Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to interact with the company’s in-house study abroad counselors, who have an average of 10+ years of experience, our test prep instructors, who have trained at least 200 students each, and our service partners for loans, travel, accommodation assistance, etc.
10, Mar 2023
Pacific D21 Mall Celebrates Women’s Day With Zeal
Pacific D21 Mall in Dwarka celebrated International Women’s Day with enthusiasm and dedication as women enjoyed several services and received recognition for their vital contribution to society. Women Entrepreneurship Awards 2023 was held under the banner of ‘Women Entrepreneurs 2.0’ to felicitate women entrepreneurs who have changed society with their hard work and dedication. On the other hand, a special screening of the latest release, ‘Shehzada’, was also organised for female teachers and their families absolutely free of cost at the PVR cinema located at the mall.
In collaboration with Fliers Group, the Women’s Entrepreneurship Awards 2023 honoured renowned female business leaders and entrepreneurs who have established themselves through lucrative endeavours in various industries, including apparel, footwear, healthcare, accessories, home goods, food, etc. The Fliers Group’s 31 female employees received honours at the Women Entrepreneurship Awards 2023. The award ceremony was conducted to recognise the significant successes and turning points of prominent businesswomen in entrepreneurship. Studio 21, the mall’s recently opened hospitality service, hosted the gathering.
The PVR theatre hosted a special Women’s Day showing of Shehzada. Teachers and their families were welcomed to the celebration at the mall, and the screening was free for everyone. The ladies who attended the event were also given vouchers as a thank-you for their efforts and contributions in addition to the movie screening. An intriguing butterfly-lit photo-op was also set up where the women clicked amazing pictures, capturing the moments of celebration for life.
Sharing his views, Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director, Pacific Group, said, “The Women’s Entrepreneurship Awards 2023 sought to recognise women who had inspired other women to pursue their goals on their terms and achieve financial independence and security. It made me happy to interact with so many women who had overcome adversity to emerge as role models for gender equity and empowerment.”
“On the other hand, we enjoyed organising a special screening of Shehzada for teachers and their families in honour of Women’s Day. In our community, we value and appreciate the contributions made by women. We also did an empowered women-centric mannequin display showcasing various outfits reflecting the women of today, showcasing outfits from the brands – Brands, Biba, Rangriti, Shree, Vero Moda, Only, and Chunmun. We celebrated a fun-filled day with these women achievers at the mall,” he added.
10, Mar 2023
Axis Asset Management Company Limited announces Key Management Appointments
Mumbai, 10th March 2023: Mr. Chandresh Nigam, Managing Director & CEO, after leading Axis Asset Management Company Ltd. (AMC) successfully over the last 10 years has requested not to be considered for reappointment for another term, in order to pursue other personal and professional interests.
Mr. Nigam had joined Axis AMC on July 01, 2009 as Head of Equities and assumed the role of MD & CEO on May 01, 2013 and led Axis AMC for two terms spanning 10 years through its extremely strong journey of growth and scale up.
The Board of Directors (the Board) of Axis AMC at its meeting held today deliberated upon the same, and considering the aspirations of Mr. Nigam accepted his decision to be at the helm till the expiry of his current term which ends on Sunday, April 30, 2023. The Board unanimously placed on record, their appreciation for his invaluable contributions and his leadership during his tenure with Axis AMC. The Board wished him the very best as he begins a new phase in his professional journey.
As part of the internal succession plan, Mr. B. Gopkumar who is currently the MD & CEO of Axis Securities has been approved by the Board to be the MD & CEO of Axis AMC from May 1, 2023 till April 30, 2026, subject to receipt of requisite approvals as necessary. Pursuant to this movement, internal succession process at Axis Securities has been initiated.
Mr. Gopkumar had joined Axis Securities as the Managing Director & CEO in October 2019, and has over 28 years of professional experience in financial services industry in areas of sales and distribution, managing large teams, marketing & branding & building of digital eco-system. Mr. Gopkumar is a postgraduate in Business Management and is an avid reader, a fitness enthusiast, and a passionate marathoner.
To further strengthen the leadership, Mr. Ashish Gupta has joined Axis AMC as its Chief Investment Officer of the Mutual Fund. Most recently Mr. Gupta was the Head of India equity research at Credit Suisse. Having tracked the Indian markets for over 25 years across 15 varied industries, actively covering 130 stocks with aggregate market cap of over $2 trillion, Mr. Gupta has a strong understanding of global & regional macroeconomics as Head of APAC Banks research at Credit Suisse covering banking sector in 13 Asian economies. Ashish was one of the earliest to identify the asset quality cycle in Indian Banks in 2011 and authored several marquee reports including the “House of Debt” series.
Commenting on the appointments, Mr. Amitabh Chaudhry, Chairman of Axis Asset Management Company Ltd. said, “With these appointments, Axis Mutual Fund will look forward to capitalizing on Gopkumar’s experience and leadership in building large distribution businesses, and Ashish’s deep understanding of capital markets and its constituents. We thank Chandresh for his leadership and contribution to Axis Asset Management Company Ltd.”
10, Mar 2023
Climate Asia hosted a panel discussion to unpack Green Jobs for Women and a Path to Climate Solutions.
Earlier this week, Climate Asia organized a virtual panel discussion on the theme of “Green Jobs for Women: A Path to Climate Solutions” The panel was designed to discuss aspects of the green jobs ecosystem for women and explore how it can contribute to addressing climate change.
The event brought together experts in the field: Reemaben Nanavaty, Director of Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA), Huda Jaffer, Director of SELCO Foundation, and Prerna Seth, Fellow at JustJobs Network. The discussion was moderated by Aiswarya Ananthapadmanabhan, AVP for Arthan’s Women at Work Initiative.
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10, Mar 2023
BMW India appoints Varsha Autohaus as its dealer partner in Mangaluru
Mangaluru, March 10, 2023. BMW India announced the opening of the Varsha Autohaus dealership in Mangaluru, Karnataka. The dealership offers immersive sales, service, and brand experience along with access to BMW Premium Selection (BPS) – the used car division of BMW Group India. The fully-fledged facility is located at Survey No.27/-16P4, Near Kannur Old Check Post, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575007. The dealership is headed by Mr. Kapil Kanuri, Dealer Principal, Varsha Autohaus.
Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, of BMW Group India, said, “As part of our vision for sustainable growth, BMW India is committed to the development of a robust BMW dealer network of international standards at all important commercial centers across the country. Mangaluru is one of the fastest-growing non-metro cities in South India and will play an important role in BMW’s market offensive in India. With the launch of Varsha Autohaus, we will continue to set new standards in the luxury car market in the region and provide high-quality services to our customers and prospects in Mangaluru and the Karnataka region.”
Mr. Kapil Kanuri, Dealer Principal, Varsha Autohaus said, “We are delighted to represent BMW India in Mangaluru. Varsha Autohaus reflects our commitment to offering the ultimate luxury experience to our clientele and further tapping the growing luxury automobile market in the region. Situated at a prime location and equipped with the latest technologies, this facility will play an instrumental role in creating an unrivaled sales and service experience for our discerning customers.”
Strategically located, the new ‘Fully Fledged’ facility is spread over 33,400 sq ft, the new dealership has an ultra-modern showroom integrated with an after-sales service facility featuring service bays and a spare parts inventory. The showroom can display four cars and the workshop is equipped with eight service bays that can service up to 20 cars per day. The latest
10, Mar 2023
Citykart launches its much-awaited “Value for Money” spring-summer collection
March 10, 2023: Citykart, one of India’s largest value retailers focusing on family fashion retail in tier-II and tier-III cities, has launched its much-awaited Spring-Summer collection of vivid and vibrant summer colours and prints. The collection is only available offline at Citykart stores in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, and the North Eastern regions.
Curated on Citykart’s core philosophy of offering affordable and aspirational fashion that holds value for money, the Spring-Summer collection includes several trending fabrics and the latest silhouettes that are distinct and exclusive. Made with comfortable, cotton-knit materials that are durable and high-quality, the Spring-Summer collection of apparel is bringing back the brand’s 99/- price point aspect with something for every budget.
The collection includes a wide variety of apparel for every category, including newborns, teenagers, men and women. Citykart’s Spring-Summer collection for women has everything from comfy tees and tops to jeans, trousers, and palazzos and a trendy ethnic wear line comprising of Kurtis, Kurta sets, dupattas, and sarees. Similarly, the men’s range includes fashionable t-shirts, comfortable home and loungewear knit bottom wear, shirts, and stylish, trendy, and comfortable jeans.
Sudhanshu Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Citykart said, “We are excited to announce the launch of our Spring-Summer collection of apparel, which is based on our core value of providing affordable fashion. We felt that this collection is special and can only be justified by its offline-only presence, so it isn’t available online. A majority of the products in this collection are at entry price points, giving customers the best value for their money. We are looking forward to seeing our customers’ response to the Spring-Summer collection, and we’re confident that it will be a hit.”
Citykart’s Spring-Summer collection is available in stores.
10, Mar 2023
GenWorks announces unique partnerships to expand operations
Bengaluru, 10th March 2023: GenWorks has entered a strategic partnership with Browndove Healthcare, Renalyx, Critical Care Hope, Panacea Medical Technologies, and Karkinos Healthcare on the occasion of its 9th anniversary this year. In a bid to leverage technology and connected care, GenWorks expands its operations into women’s wellness, critical care, renal care, and oncology care via these partnerships to build and deliver a unique distribution platform for customers.
Mr. S Ganesh Prasad, Founder, MD & CEO of GenWorks said, “Today, we mark an important milestone in the history of GenWorks, as we look to reinvent ourselves and expand our medical and healthcare offerings for the people of India. With customer centricity at the heart of our operations, we aspire to create a connected care ecosystem that is holistic, affordable, and widely accessible. The strategic partnerships with Browndove Healthcare, Renalyx, Critical Care Hope, Panacea Medical Technologies and Karnikos Healthcare will enable diversification, expansion, and technological prowess that will commence a new chapter in efforts to enhance India’s healthcare system. Our collaborations are bound to open up several opportunities, and we look forward to working closely with our partners.”
The company’s strategic partnership with Browndove Healthcare will enable GenWorks to add nephorology consumables manufacturing capabilities, while the collaboration with Renalyx further strengthens its nephrology care portfolio, helping the digital medical and healthcare service provider serve India’s highly underserved dialysis market. To augment its connected care ecosystem, GenWorks has partnered with Critical Care Hope, availing its services and platform to enable access to affordable healthcare for people across the country. Moreover, GenWorks will work with Panacea Medical Technologies to provide state-of-the-art radiotherapy equipment, and will aim to advance its oncology care offerings via the association with Karnikos Healthcare.
