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Category: Awards & Recognition

  • Karnataka Showcases BTS 2024 – NRI News

    A Global Partnership for Innovation and Growth

    From Bengaluru to the World- A Preview of BTS 2024

    Consul Generals from Australia, Denmark, Israel, Japan, Switzerland, the USA, and the UK confirm their commitment to participation

    BENGALURU: The Department of E, IT, Bt Government of Karnataka, under its Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) initiative, hosted the GIA Meet today to promote the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 (BTS 2024) to its Global Innovation Alliance partner countries & international trade mission representatives. The meeting, held in Bengaluru, was graced by Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Bt, and Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Government of Karnataka. The Consul Generals of GIA countries along with Heads of International Trade Missions & different provinces of these countries participated in the event including Australia, Denmark, Israel, Japan, Switzerland, the USA, the UK, Poland, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Italy & many more. Shri Darshan H.V, IAS, Director, Dept. of Electronics, IT, Bt, and Managing Director, KITS, Govt. of Karnatakaset the tone for the GIA Meet, detailed presentation on the event was provided by Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology, Govt. of Karnataka, and Ms. Ruchi Bindal, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Dept. of E, IT, Bt Govt. of Karnataka concluded the event.

    The Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) is an initiative of the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, and the Government of Karnataka. The platform aims to create partnerships with leading countries in the field of technology and innovation. This program was conceptualized in 2017 under the Karnataka Unit for International Co-operation (KUIC), and the GIA partners have grown exponentially, from 10 countries in 2018 to 30+ countries in 2024. The GIA Meet aimed to strengthen international cooperation, foster innovation, and invite global participation in the upcoming BTS 2024 scheduled from November 19-21, 2024, at the iconic Bangalore Palace.

    Addressing the gathering, Shri Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Bt, and Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Government of Karnataka emphasized the importance of Bengaluru and Karnataka as a global hub for technology collaboration. He stated, “Bengaluru is not just the tech capital of India; it’s a globally recognized hub for innovation, research, and technology-driven growth. The state’s dynamic ecosystem has attracted over $45 billion in foreign direct investment, with global giants establishing significant R&D centers here. With over 15,000 startups and a startup valuation of $180 billion, Karnataka is at the forefront of global innovation. It is also the leading destination for Global Capability Centers (GCCs), with more than 400 centers already established in Bengaluru, making up over 40% of all GCCs in India. The Bengaluru Tech Summit has been instrumental in bringing together the brightest minds from around the world, and I strongly urge our Global Innovation Alliance partners to include BTS 2024 in their event calendars. Active participation will not only contribute to our shared technology future but also help continue creating high-quality jobs, driving economic growth, and building a more connected, sustainable, and inclusive world. Karnataka remains the destination of choice for global technology collaboration, and we look forward to welcoming our GIA partners to explore new opportunities and drive innovation together.”

    International partners were invited to bring their country delegations, including both ministerial, academic, R&D, and corporate representatives, to participate in the exhibition by setting up country pavilions to showcase their technological capabilities, hold meetings with representatives from various nations, and conduct focused sessions under the Global Collaboration Track in the conference.

    Echoing the message from Shri Kharge, Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary to Government, Department of E, IT, Bt, and S&T, Government of Karnataka said, “GIA has been a key pillar in promoting Karnataka’s status as a global innovation hub, fostering partnerships with over 30 countries worldwide. Through these partnerships, Karnataka has successfully established itself as a vibrant center for technology and innovation, creating a conducive environment for startups, entrepreneurs, and global corporations alike. The GIA Meet marks the start of global outreach efforts to ensure robust international participation in this as well as the future editions of Bengaluru Tech Summit.”

    Dr. Ekroop Caur presented an overview of the event along with new GIA initiatives which will be tailored to the requirements of the partner countries. She spoke about how the Government of Karnataka is actively enhancing its global engagement through several key initiatives aimed at fostering international collaboration for the state’s vibrant startup ecosystem. The Global Innovation Alliance Market Access Programme (GIA MAP) has successfully facilitated physical exploratory visits for growth-stage Karnataka startups to five countries—UAE, Singapore, Belgium, Australia, and Germany—across various tech segments, supporting 42 startups. Notably, the recent edition in North Rhine Westphalia, Germany, announced a Welcome Package offering €10,000 in financial support to Karnataka-based startups.

    In addition, the GIA Mixer, a monthly event launched in August 2024, focuses on promoting collaboration with a new country each month, with the pilot edition featuring DeepTech and Fintech startups pitching to Australian counterparts. Furthering its commitment to nurturing innovation, the Department is in discussions with the UK’s Catapult Network and Paris’s Station F incubator to bolster Karnataka’s Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and support the growth of its startups. The Department has recently launched a newsletter: ‘The Innovation Chronicle’: a monthly guide to key events, initiatives, and industry highlights in ESDM, startups, IT, and biotech through different sections like Breaking news, Department Hub, Industry in Focus, Luminary talks, among many other interesting insights from the Department.

    The event under the theme ‘Breaking Boundaries’, will provide unbound opportunities that will feature a range of activities including a 6-track Conference covering IT & Deep Tech, Biotech & Healthtech, Startup Ecosystem, Global Innovation Alliance, India-USA Tech Conclave and newly added Electro-Semicon track. The Conference will host over 85 sessions featuring 460+ speakers. Each of these tracks are curated by a committee of experts from the industry, research, and academia. Special programs like the India-USA Tech Conclave, CEO Conclave, Startup Conclave, and Fireside Chats with renowned personalities will also be featured. The International Exhibition with over 700 Exhibitors including  500+ startups will be a major highlight with focused pavilions on Corporate & Industry, Global Innovation Alliance, Startup Zone, STPI National Showcase, MSME Pavilion, R&D Pavilion (Lab to Market), Leading States of India, Karnataka Showcase and Technology Parks. This year there is a special emphasis on the sectorial pavilions focusing on industry sectors like Biotech & Healthtech, Electro & Semicon, Telecom, Spacetech, Mobility, Greentech, Edutech, BFSI & Fintech, and Animation & Gaming.

    A host of networking events like B2B Partnering, Awards, Strategic Roundtables with GCCs, investors, startup ecosystems, satellite events like Beyond Bengaluru; as well as IT & Bio Quizzes, Poster showcase, and Hackathon are some of the other highlights of the event.

    The GIA meet also featured addresses from the Consul Generals including Ms. Hilary McGeachy, Consul General, Australia; Mr. Eske Rosenberg, Consul General, Denmark; Ms. Orli Weitzman, Consul General, Israel; Mr. Nakane Tsutomu, Consul General, Japan; Mr. Jonas Brunschwig, Consul General, Switzerland; Mr. Chrisopher Hodges, Consul General, USA; Mr. James Godber, Deputy Head of Mission, UK and Ms. Anne Cremers, Deputy Consul General, Netherlands. They expressed their commitment to fostering deeper engagement with Karnataka’s thriving innovation ecosystem and participating in the Bengaluru Tech Summit.

    BTS 2024 is set to bring together global thought leaders, industry executives, technology experts, policymakers, and investors to explore the latest trends and developments in technology and innovation. As the event approaches, it heralds a new era of unbound technological innovation and expansive global collaboration.

  • Manipal Hospital Kharadi hosts the Personalized Arthroplasty event in Pune

    PUNE: Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, hosted a pioneering event on alternative alignment in knee arthroplasty, marking a significant advancement in knee replacement techniques. The one-day conference brought together leading orthopedic surgeons and specialists from across India, featuring live surgical narratives, expert insights, and knowledge sharing on innovative techniques, kinematics, and functional alignment. Notable attendees included leading specialists from India and abroad who attended the event along with prominent figures from the medical community. The event aimed to showcase the latest advancements in knee surgery and facilitate expertise sharing among top orthopedic surgeons.

    Speaking at the event, Dr. Sinukumar Bhaskaran, Consultant Hip and Knee Surgeon, at Manipal Hospital Kharadi said, “This technique recreates a more natural alignment of the knee; hence, these patients recover quickly and more completely following knee replacement. Some of the leading surgeons across the country gave their insights and also demonstrated surgical videos of alternative alignment techniques. For Manipal Hospital Kharadi, the inaugural Alternative Alignment in Knee Arthroplasty event is a remarkable achievement. Our goal to improve patient outcomes is centered on our dedication to developing cutting-edge methods and encouraging collaboration among expert surgeons. It shows our commitment to delivering innovative, personal service.“

  • Sachin Seth Appointed Regional Managing Director at CRIF for India and South Asia

    CRIF’s newest senior appointment reflects the commitment to accelerated growth and market leadership in India and South Asia

    MUMBAI: CRIF S.P.A., a global company specializing in credit and business information, analytics, outsourcing, and digital solutions for financial inclusion, open banking, customer acquisition, risk management, and ESG, today appointed Sachin Seth as Regional Managing Director for India & South Asia, effective September 2, 2024.

    In his new role, Sachin will report to Marco Benvenuto, Senior Advisor, CRIF Group, to accelerate growth by leveraging the strength and capabilities of all the companies under the CRIF Group in the region.

    With almost three decades of diverse experience across geographies in the fields of fintech, digital, business transformation, and technology, Sachin has a proven track record of working with companies to drive their growth agenda through innovative solutions. Before joining CRIF, Sachin held pivotal roles at IBM, EY, and BSE Ebix, and EbixCash Financial Technologies as an Executive Director, Consulting Partner, Board Director, and Managing Director respectively.

    Sachin Seth, Regional Managing Director, CRIF, said “CRIF has made significant contributions to financial inclusion, credit accessibility, digital advancement, risk mitigation, and ESG compliance in South Asia. I am excited to join CRIF and look forward to collaborating with the team, partners, and clients to expand our solutions portfolio and market presence. Together, we aim to enhance the industry growth in India and South Asia by leveraging our extensive experience and successful track record in delivering solutions across 35+ countries, in both emerging and established markets.”

    Commenting on Seth’s appointment Marco Benvenuto, Senior Advisor, CRIF Group, said, “Sachin brings to us a long-standing and robust experience of having solved customer problems using intelligent digitization. We have built an enterprise in the region that allows our clients to combine credit bureau data and open finance data, fully complying with local regulations and thereafter putting analytics, credit decisioning, and hyper-personalized customer engagement on top to create sustainable lending portfolios. Sachin’s previous experience of using intelligent digitization to create at-scale solutions will help us accelerate the deployment of our solutions for more customers and deepen our use cases in existing customers. His appointment reflects our commitment to expanding our presence and expertise in South Asia.”

  • Tanishq and De Beers Collaborate to Transform India’s Natural Diamond Jewellery Landscape


    L to R: Sandrine Conseiller, CEO of De Beers Brands, and Ajoy Chawla, CEO, Jewellery Division, Titan Company Limited at the press conference to announce Tanishq and De Beers forging strategic collaboration to boost India’s natural diamond jewellery market

    INDIA: As India becomes the world’s second-largest market for natural diamond jewelry, industry leaders De Beers and Tanishq unite to connect even more people to its enduring value

    De Beers Group, the world’s leading diamond company, and Tanishq, India’s largest jewelry retail brand from the Tata group, today announced a long-term strategic collaboration to connect more Indian consumers with the rarity and preciousness of natural diamonds and amplify the growing opportunity in the Indian market.

    With a vibrant economy, a growing middle class, and discerning consumers who seek jewelry with enduring value, demand for natural diamond jewelry from Indian consumers has surged recently and now represents 11 percent of global demand. This has seen India replace China as the second-largest market in the world for natural diamond jewelry. With diamond acquisition rates in India well below those in mature markets such as the US, this provides a significant opportunity to catalyze further growth for natural diamond jewelry in India.

    To help unlock the growth opportunity, Tanishq, and De Beers have agreed to come together on a long-term collaboration to enhance consumer education, interest, and confidence, and to promote natural diamonds across India. Through this collaboration, the two parties will capitalize on Tanishq’s deep understanding of the Indian market built up over three decades, combined with De Beers’ expertise in the diamond category, to deepen consumer desire for and confidence in natural diamonds, underscoring their inherent value, rarity, and timelessness.

    L to R: Ajoy Chawla, CEO, of Jewellery Division, Titan Company Limited, and Sandrine Conseiller, CEO of De Beers Brands, at the press conference to announce Tanishq and De Beers forging strategic collaboration to boost India’s natural diamond jewelry market

    The collaboration will focus on building extensive consumer outreach, deepening the capabilities of Tanishq’s retail staff to communicate about natural diamonds, educating consumers about authenticity, and shaping customer experiences as they explore their desire for natural diamonds and studded jewelry. This will also be supported by a compelling 360-degree marketing campaign to build awareness and target expanding the customer base in the country, including first-time buyers.

    The new collaboration builds on the existing relationship between Tanishq and De Beers, with Tanishq already using De Beers’ proprietary diamond verification technology to support the assurance of the authenticity of its products. The two parties are also in talks regarding opportunities to collaborate on traceability, how Tanishq’s diamond supply needs can best be met, and further opportunities to use De Beers’ proprietary technologies to support pipeline integrity.

    Sandrine Conseiller, CEO of De Beers Brands, said: “India’s love affair with diamonds has flourished over thousands of years, and we are thrilled to partner with Tanishq to unlock the full potential of this vibrant market. Like De Beers, Tanishq recognizes the power, preciousness, and prestige of natural diamonds, and combining our expertise with their deep understanding of the Indian market, we will work together to create something special to connect more Indian consumers to these natural treasures and their enduring value.”

    Ajoy Chawla, CEO of, Jewellery Division, Titan Company Limited, said: “The opportunity in India for diamonds is massive, given the very low penetration of studded jewelry and the rising per capita incomes in the world’s most populous country. Tanishq has been a pioneer in democratizing diamond jewelry in the market for three decades and has always targeted the modern progressive woman. Tanishq Diamonds adheres to the strictest standards, with all diamonds responsibly sourced in compliance with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) and the Tanishq Suppliers Engagement Protocol (TSEP).

    We offer our certificate of Tanishq Diamond guarantee and have the most transparent buyback policy in India, enabling trust and peace of mind for our customers. In an increasingly man-made world where virtual living is becoming the norm, people crave authentic brands, and real experiences and value natural, wholesome products. All Tanishq Diamonds are natural, rare, and valuable and have attracted our customers with innovative designs. The collaboration with De Beers will unlock new opportunities for both Tanishq and the diamond sector, celebrating the eternal beauty of these miracles of nature.”

  • Franklin Templeton Unveils Franklin India Medium to Long Duration Fund

    The fund will aim for income accrual and potential capital gains by investing in a diversified mix of sovereign & high-quality corporate bonds

    Ideal for investors with a 3 Years and above investment horizon 

    MUMBAI: Franklin Templeton (India) announced the launch of its open-ended medium to long-duration debt fund – Franklin India Medium to Long Duration Fund (FIMLDF). The fund will look to invest in debt and money market instruments like non-convertible debentures, bonds, certificates of deposits, commercial papers, treasury bills, and government securities while maintaining a duration between 4 and 7 years. FIMLDF will be managed by Chandni Gupta, VP & Portfolio Manager, and Anuj Tagra, VP & Portfolio Manager, India Fixed Income, Franklin Templeton.

    The New Fund Offer opens on September 3, 2024, and will close on September 17, 2024, during which units will be available at Rs. 10/- per unit.

    Commenting on the fund launch and its investment strategy, Chandni Gupta, Vice President & Portfolio Manager, India Fixed Income, Franklin Templeton, said, “FIMLDF will be dynamically managed, allowing it to adjust its duration exposure in response to changing macro environment, and it may be an ideal investment option for investors looking to deploy money in fixed income funds as a part of their strategic investment allocation.”

    Anuj Tagra, Vice President & Portfolio Manager, India Fixed Income, Franklin Templeton, added, “We foresee robust domestic economic growth with a shallow rate cut cycle leading to a steeper yield curve. The fund aims to generate accrual income while opportunistically managing duration risk to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.”

    Speaking on the launch of the fund, Avinash Satwalekar, President, of Franklin Templeton–India, said, “We are expanding our fixed income range, having identified gaps spanning major categories in the high credit space. FIMLDF caters to investors looking for a product that can adapt to market cycles and invest in quality debt instruments. Our investment team will use top-down analysis to determine portfolio maturity and a bottom-up approach to security selection and aim to invest in a mix of government securities and corporate debt. The Indian market offers great opportunity for long-term players like Franklin Templeton, and we plan to continue bringing innovative solutions, and global best practices to our investors and partners in India.”

    NFO Features

    Fund DescriptionAn open-ended medium to long-duration debt scheme that will invest across debt instruments like government bonds, corporate bonds, and money market instrumentsType Of SchemeThe investment objective of the scheme is to generate returns by investing in debt and money market instruments such that the Macaulay duration of the scheme portfolio is between 4 to 7 years. However, there can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Scheme will be achieved.Investment Objective:Scheme Re-opensFor continuous sales repurchase On                     NFO DatesSeptember 3, 2024 to September 17, 2024Subscription: Fresh Purchase – Rs.5,000/-. Additional Purchase – Rs.1,000/-. Redemption: Rs.1,000/-. The amount for subscription and redemption in excess of the minimum amount specified above is any amount in multiple of Re. 1/-.SIP: Minimum amount INR 500/-September 26, 2024Managed ByChandni Gupta and Anuj TagraMinimum AmountSubscription: Fresh Purchase – Rs.5,000/-. Additional Purchase – Rs.1,000/-. Redemption: Rs.1,000/-. The amount for subscription and redemption over the minimum amount specified above is any amount in multiple of Re. 1/-.SIP: Minimum amount INR 500/-BenchmarkCRISIL Medium to Long Duration Debt A-III IndexExit LoadNil

    For further details refer Scheme Information Document available at www.franklintempletonindia.com.

  • Indra Nooyi’s Keynote Address at ITServe’s Synergy 2024


    Indra Nooyi

    UNITED STATES: “Indira Nooyi will be the Special Guest and deliver the keynote address during Synergy 2024, which will be held at the electric city of Las Vegas, at the Caesars Palace, the legendary hotspot where fortunes favor the BOLD on October 29-30, 2024,” Suresh Potluri, Director of Synergy 2024 announced.

    Synergy is ITServe Alliance’s flagship Annual Conference, which began in 2015 to provide business owners, entrepreneurs, and executives with strategies and solutions that address the unique needs of the IT Solution & Services Industry.

    “In addition, with an esteemed panel of keynote speakers, industry experts, and thought leaders, who will share their insights and best practices on a diverse range of topics, Synergy 2024 will focus on developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters, to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding,” Potluri added.

    Indra Nooyi, former PepsiCo CEO stepped down after a 24-year career with the company. Born in India, Nooyi was one of a handful of people of color to run an S&P 500 company. During her tenure as chief executive, Nooyi transformed PepsiCo into one of the most successful food and beverage companies worldwide. Her push for healthier snack and beverage choices, along with an eye for product packaging, led to an 80 percent sales growth in the 12 years she was CEO.

    “Synergy 2024 is a unique venue for the collision of brilliance, a networking supernova, and a tech safari all rolled into one,” said Amar Varada, ITServe’s Governing Board Chair. “As you are aware, ITServe Alliance’s Synergy is the only one-of-a-kind conference delivering innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals.”  

    With Panel Discussions that are vital to the ITServe members, who are entrepreneurs, Synergy 2024 will be packed with sessions on Immigration, CIO/CTO, Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), Financial, Startup Cube, and PAC.

    Jagadeesh Mosali, National President of ITServe Alliance said, “ITServe Alliance’s Synergy 2024 will offer to its over 3,000 participants from across the nation, innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals. Synergy will focus on developing strategic relationships with our partner organizations, sponsors, and supporters to work for a better technology environment by building greater understanding.”

    With the theme, “Join, Collaborate, Accelerate” ITServe is working to streamline the Synergy Conference process, increase the brand value of Synergy, and promote diversity to establish it as a recognized America’s biggest IT Staffing conference by mainstream media similar to SIA, HR World, Inc 5000.

    According to Anju Vallabhaneni, President-Elect of ITServe, “Synergy offers a unique opportunity for IT companies and individuals in the industry to hear from renowned guest speakers and thought leaders from across the country. participants will have the opportunity to break out into start-up cubes with business leaders and investors to pitch their offerings and ideas for the chance to turn dreams into a reality.”

    As per the organizers, Synergy 2024 will provide a platform for 3,000+ CXOs from hundreds of multi-national companies to come together to hear industry leaders speak, engage in discussions with lawmakers, and participate in interactive breakout sessions, deliberate on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the world of IT Staffing and Technology.

    “Your valuable presence and support for Synergy 2024 will help us provide business owners, entrepreneurs, and executives with strategies and solutions that address the unique needs of the IT Solution & Services Industry,” added Muralidhar Bandlapalli, Secretary of ITServe.

    Since 2015, Synergy has grown from a one-day conference and banquet event to two full days of speakers, panels, and breakout sessions. “What began in Dallas, TX, has now traveled to Las Vegas, continuing to grow. Synergy continues to add prominent speakers, and valuable sponsorships, and help grow a community network of industry professionals across the country,” said Sateesh Nagilla, Treasurer of ITServe.

    Participants will get to network with peers, learn from experts, and discover new and exciting developments in IT. Don’t miss the chance to hear from inspiring speakers who will show us how to conquer the upcoming challenges and opportunities in information technology. Come, join us and be part of our journey. Let us be your voice when it comes to Information Technology.

    ITServe Alliance’s Synergy is the only one-of-a-kind conference delivering innovative strategies, unique insights, and proven tactics for success, exclusively for IT service companies and individuals. It is a collision of brilliance, a networking supernova, and a tech safari all rolled into one.

    Founded in 2010, ITServe Alliance is the largest association of Information Technology Services organizations functioning across the United States. Established to be the voice of all prestigious Information Technology companies functioning with similar interests across the United States, ITServe Alliance has evolved as a resourceful and respected platform to collaborate and initiate measures in the direction of protecting common interests and ensuring collective success.

    Over the years, ITServe Alliance has established a name for itself as the center point of information for its members, covering various topics ranging from immigration, technology, economy, and much more. ITServe Alliance now has 21 Chapters in several states across the United States, bringing the Synergy Conference to every part of this innovation country.

    For more information, please visit: www.itserve.org

  • Discover the New BORI IKS Course: Unlocking 2 Credits in Marathi Language Learning

    First of its kind attempt to offer it in Marathi as per the NEP 2020 guidelines

    PUNE: Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute (BORI), a world-renowned pioneer institute of oriental studies, has taken one more step in enhancing its online platform ‘Bharatvidya’. In Maharashtra, BORI has received several frequent queries about the availability of IKS course content in Marathi. Given this need and demand of the student, BORI is launching a separate course on its online learning platform ‘Bharatvidya.in’ which will provide lecture courses in the Marathi language.

    This was announced by Bhupal Patwardhan, Chairman of the Executive Board of BORI in a Press Conference held at the BORI Campus today. Mr. Pradeep Rawat – trustee, Prof. Pradeep Apte – Vice Chairman of the Regulatory Council, Dr. Gauri Moghe, Content Curator and Project Coordinator and Mr. Chinmay Bhandari &Mr. Mithilesh Kulkarni from the Digital Initiatives Team of BORI were present on the occasion.

    Stating the objective behind this initiative Bhupal Patwardhan said, “We received a splendid response for some of our online initiatives undertaken during the pandemic. This prompted us to start ‘Bharatvidya’, a digital platform that can take the knowledge acquired by BORI over the past 100 years through its meticulous research work to the ones who value it. Currently, 14 courses are available on this platform and thousands are taking it.”

    “As per the NEP 2020, a course of 2 credits on the Indian Knowledge System was made mandatory for undergraduate students. The State Government also issued the notification in this regard. So, for the benefit of the students we developed this course in English and offered it through our ‘Bharatvidya’ platform, which was well received and over 10000 students took this course up and completed it. Now, we are happy to launch this IKS course in Marathi”, Patwardhan added.

    Pradeep Rawat said, “This course has been developed in tune with NEP’s guidelines to provide education in the mother language. This also underlines the importance of native languages in propagating the ancient Indian knowledge among the young generation and to inspire them to conserve this knowledge in today’s modern world.”

    “This IKS program in Marathi has been developed as per the century-old tradition of BORI which gives importance to facts and evidence while undertaking any research project. The program will be accessible to all those who are interested in IKS at just Rs.1999/- per person with lifetime access to the content. For those students who wish to enroll and opt for these courses to earn the credit to be credited to the credit bank as per the understanding reached by the respective college of the student and the fees would be charged accordingly.”, informed Prof. Pradeep Apte.

    While sharing some highlights of this program Dr. Gauri Moghe said, “We have included some of the most important subjects related to the Indian Knowledge System in this program which will be made available for the students through pre-recorded videos. This 30-hour program has a total of 27 sessions. Well thought and logical order of the sessions, use of graphics for better understanding and effective presentation will make this course enjoyable.”

    “It has subjects related to the Veda, Upanishad, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Purana, Indian Philosophy, Ancient Mathematics, Ayurveda, Yoga Shastra, Art and Architecture, Temple Architecture, Agriculture and Food tradition and important Dynasties from ancient India. The sessions are presented by renowned subject experts. The evaluation of the course is done with the MCQs at the end of the course and the certificate shall be awarded after the entire course”, Dr. Moghe added.  

    She pointed out that this IKS program will not only help UG students to get the mandatory 2 credits but will also make them aware of our age-old rich cultural and knowledge tradition.

    The experts whose sessions are part of this 2 credits IKS course in Marathi include Prof. Pradeep Apte, Dr. Mugdha Gadgil, Dr. Gauri Moghe, Dr. Vijaya Deshpande, Pranav Gokhale, Dr. Manish Walvekar, Rajas Vaishampayan, Dr. Yogesh Bendale, Dr.Girish Welankar and Dr. Bhagyashree Yargop.

    Mithilesh Kulkarni from the Digital Initiatives Team of BORI said that a lot of Universities and large educational institutions are in talks with BORI for collaboration to offer this mandatory course at the institute level. Some of the reputed educational institutions and Universities that have already signed MoU with BORI include Maharashtra Education Society, MIT World Peace University, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics, Sri Balaji University Pune, and Veer Narmad South Gujarat University.  

    For more information please check https://bharatvidya.in/

  • Helios Partners with Renowned French Watchmaker Herbelin: A New Era for Luxury Timepieces in India

    Helios plans to launch 50 stores in FY25’ with an overall investment of 100 cr

    NEW DELHI: Helios, India’s largest premium watch retailer under Titan Company Ltd., announces the expansion of its international portfolio with the exclusive introduction of Herbelin, a distinguished French watchmaker, to the Indian market. Celebrated for its impeccable French craftsmanship and precision-driven Swiss movements, it adds a new dimension of elegance to Helios’s already impressive selection of over 45 reputed international brands. As part of this launch, Helios will introduce an assortment of 40+ impressive watches across 9 stores in major Metro and Tier 1 markets. By the end of the financial year, Herbelin will be available in 20+ stores, including tier 2 towns like Chandigarh, Lucknow & Vishakhapatnam.

    A recent Deloitte report highlights that 60% of Indian consumers are now embracing luxury brands, fueled by both macroeconomic as well as demographic factors. The large proportion of Gen Z and millennials, rising urbanization, and a large & growing middle class have made India as the fastest-growing market for accessible luxury and the most desired marketplace for all international watch brands in the world. This growth in disposable income has shifted consumer behavior towards aspirational products and services. As urbanization advances and the middle and upper-middle classes expand, India’s appetite for accessible luxury shall grow significantly, providing a large growth opportunity for Helios through a journey of continuous premiumization. In response to the growing demand for premium brands in India, Helios, with its extensive network of over 240 stores, spread over more than 95 cities has become a preferred destination for international brands wanting to enter the dynamic Indian market, ensuring customers have access to the world’s most sought-after watches. Helios plans to introduce 10 new international watch brands this year.

    Speaking on the launch of the brand, Rahul Shukla, CSMO, Watches and Wearables Division, Titan Company Ltd. said, “We are delighted to welcome Herbelin to our meticulously curated collection at Helios, marking a significant milestone in our strategic expansion within the premium segment. As the Indian economy thrives and consumer disposable income rises, there is a growing demand for aspirational luxury products, particularly among well-traveled individuals. With the continued expansion of our international portfolio and our growing number of stores, we aim to build on our growth momentum of 35% for the year 2024-25. We are committed to meeting the needs of our discerning, brand-conscious customers by establishing ourselves as the leading choice for premium international watches. Herbelin’s exquisite fusion of French heritage and innovative technology perfectly complements our dedication to providing the finest timepieces.“

    Speaking on the launch, Benjabin Theurillat, Associate Director of Herbelin said, “We are thrilled to officially launch our brand in India, a market brimming with opportunity and growing affluence. India’s rapidly evolving consumer landscape makes it an ideal destination for our brand’s expansion. We are committed to bringing our unique offerings to discerning Indian consumers, who value quality, innovation, and authenticity. This launch represents a significant step in our global journey, as we proudly introduce fine French horology to the Indian market. We are thrilled to offer products that not only embody the excellence of French craftsmanship but also resonate with the evolving tastes and aspirations of this dynamic nation.”

    With plans to launch 50 stores with an investment of 100 cr in FY 25’, Helios aims to further solidify its position as the ultimate destination for premium timepieces. The launch of Herbelin represents the beginning of its strategic efforts to bring more International luxury brands to India.  Starting at a range of INR 45,000 to INR 80,000, Herbelin watches will be available at marquee Helios stores and e-commerce platforms.

  • Dr. Madhu Chopra on the Importance of Cosmetology: A Necessity for Health and Confidence

    PUNE: In today’s fast-paced world, where everyone is working, looking good has become increasingly important. It’s time to change the perception of cosmetology and aesthetics. Renowned cosmetologist and MD of Studio Aesthetics, Dr. Madhu Chopra, emphasized that seeking help for real or perceived flaws and insecurities should be seen as a necessity rather than vanity. She shared her insights during a conversation with esteemed aesthetic practitioner Dr. Trishna Gupte at the Global Aesthetics Summit 2024, organized by the International School of Clinical Aesthetics (ISCA).

    Dr. Chopra stated that inhibitions about one’s appearance should not hinder success. Everyone is unique and special, and if someone requires assistance from cosmetology, these procedures should be considered as integral as any other health service.

    The organizing chairperson, founder of ISCA and Cosmo Square, and renowned trichologist and cosmetologist, Dr. Trishna Gupte, mentioned that the two-day conference featured scientific sessions on topics such as laser advances, hyperpigmentation, body contouring, and scar correction, along with demonstrations and paper presentations.

    Reiterating her belief in home remedies and holistic care, Dr. Chopra pointed out that from a cosmetologist’s perspective, beauty is more than skin deep. While changes can be made on the surface, the impact of these efforts goes far beyond, boosting the confidence of patients. However, for true success, a strong positive mindset is essential. Dr. Chopra advocates for holistic wellness that encompasses mind, body, and spirituality, highlighting the importance of meditation and self-introspection as internal corrective measures that manifest as a glow on the outside.

    She also advised cosmetologists that counseling is key to keeping patients happy. With the rapid advancements in cosmetology and the emergence of new technologies, conferences like this are vital for staying updated with the latest developments.

  • Unanswered Questions and Historical Concerns: A Deep Dive into Religare’s Bid for Clarity


    Religare

    INDIA: The potential acquisition of a controlling stake in Religare Enterprises has raised eyebrows in the corporate world. Onboarding a new set of investors does infuse a great deal of goodness, but in this case, the board chaired under the leadership of Dr Rashmi Saluja has raised several alarms. Among the many points raised by the board, the most pertinent one points to the regulatory and corporate governance standards. The board has hinted at broader issues requiring onlookers to relook at the corporate history of the acquirer. Failure to do so would have broader implications for the integrity of India’s financial ecosystem.

    Finance has remained an alluring if not profitable area of business for countless years. Finance has been the third most-oldest industry after agriculture and trade. In this age of AI, banking, insurance, or any financial service may seem like an easy proposition, but running a financial business is not for the faint-hearted. Besides fulfilling compliance requirements, and meeting regulatory guidelines, businesses have to be on the vigil for any volatilities and uncertainties. Above all, there is a compelling need to constantly watch out for the top lines and stay ahead of the competition. This explains why many corporate houses excelling in other areas such as manufacturing or trade have perished when it comes to operating a financial services firm.

    A great deal of learning can be assimilated from Marx’s popular quip about history repeating itself – “first as a tragedy, second as a farce.” The banking and financial services industry has had its own share of tragedies and even farces. The 2008 financial crisis was one example of a tragedy but there have been countless financial crises with greater impunity. Pre-2008 examples of crises include a Roman crisis in the era of emperor Tiberius; or the great slump of the 15th century; the Tulip mania of the 17th century; or the panic of 1785; or a crisis that shook Australia in 1893; or the 1910s post world-war 1 crisis. And while you are it, let us also pay homage to the countless lives ruined by either the great depression or the economic crisis.

    Acknowledging the perils of a mismanaged financial services firm has therefore prompted policy-makers to tighten the policy string from any and every financial services firm. In addition to scrutinizing books and compliance reports, regulators also perform periodic checks on key management personnel to ensure a safe and fool-proof financial services operation. In fact, the larger society generally refrains from a public discussion of serious matters such as vested interests of acquirers, shoddy management, or bad ethics/principles, etc. The reasons could be a risk to life, limb, property, or mental sanity of all degrees. But what the general public murmurs, regulators bring to the discussion and ensure only the clean survive.

    For either the RBI or the SEBI to probe an acquisition is not a difficult task. There’s a plethora of information available through the RoC data as well as FIU-IND investigations which can and have brought out some uncomfortable details. For instance, an FIU-IND investigation has repeatedly shown which NBFCs were mismanaged. The classification is something that even the Finance Ministry has acknowledged and appreciated. Analyzing this data leads one to the credible answer of a passionately-discussed hypothesis – are they fit to acquire that stake? The analysis also sheds light on the high-risk business and losses accounted to the acquirer in the past.

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has established stringent guidelines to ensure that NBFCs operate under clean and robust corporate governance standards. The RBI under the leadership of a historian also realizes that this is not a trivial matter. In the banking and financial services industry, reputation is paramount. While there may be arguments in favor of the synergies that a Burman-led Religare could bring to the table. These potential benefits must be weighed against the considerable risks posed by their historical mismanagement in the financial sector. Mint-street, meanwhile, too realizes that the reluctance of the board to support the Burmans’ takeover attempt is not an obstructionist stance but rather a protective measure for the long-term stability and credibility of Religare.