Tag: awards

  • Discover the National Indo-American Museum’s Latest Oral History Initiative


    Consul General of Chicago Mr. Somnath Ghosh addresses the NIAM audience

     CHICAGO IL: The National Indo-American Museum (NIAM) launched its latest Oral History initiative called Broadening Narratives on July 19, 2024. The event, held at NIAM’s Umang and Paragi Patel Center at 815 S. Main St. in Lombard, was attended by the Consul General, Somnath Ghosh, other invited speakers, and members of the community including those whose stories are already featured on NAM’s website.

    Funded by the Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelly Foundation, the Broadening Narratives project seeks to go beyond the portrayal of Indian Americans as a highly educated and successful immigrant group. It will diversify NIAM’s Oral History collection by adding the voices of Indian Americans from a broad range of socio-economic levels, including marginalized and under-represented groups, such as LGBTQ+, retail clerks, gas station attendants, people living in shelters or on government assistance, and the undocumented.The Consul General spoke of the importance of a community capturing its own story in authentic, first-person voices instead of leaving it solely in the hands of others to interpret the Indian American experience. NIAM Board members explained the process by which interviewees would be sought out and interviewed by well-trained professionals on the project team. Team members including Project Director Padma Rangaswamy, Board member Devalina Law, Exhibition Chair Raja Nadimpalli, and Project Manager Amita Banerji, addressed the audience. NIAM digital archivist Ina Cox and NIAM consultant Peter Alter, Chief Oral Historian at the Chicago History Museum gave the audience a fuller understanding of how to get the most out of the NIAM oral history web pages. The new oral histories will be posted on the NIAM website and made accessible to the widest possible audience, including historians and researchers.

    Consul General Somnath Ghosh

    NIAM Archivist Ina Cox

    NIAM Archivist Ina Cox

    NIAM Archivist Ina Cox

    NIAM Oral History consultant Peter Cox of Chicago History Museum

    Project Director Padma Rangaswamy

    Members of the audience also viewed NIAM’s latest exhibition Desi Roots and Wings, which narrates the little-known history of Indian immigrants to the US from 1620 to World War 1. Among the many individuals whose story is told in the exhibition is revolutionary freedom fighter Har Dayal Mathur (1884 – 1939) who lived in the US and devoted his life to the cause of Indian independence from the British.  His great-granddaughter, Nisha Grover, was one of the featured speakers at the Broadening Narratives event.  She presented a fascinating family story of her great-grandfather, his worldwide travels, and his connection to the homeland.

    Desi Roots and Wings is open to the public at 815 S. Main St. in Lombard on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from Noon to 4 pm. Group tours at other times are available by appointment. Admission is $10, free for children 5 and younger. Free parking is available. 

    The National Indo-American builds bridges across generations and connects cultures through the colorful stories of all Indian Americans.

  • Vascular Society of India’s Walkathon in Pune Promotes Vascular Health


    Vascular Society of India’s Walkathon in Pune

    Vascular Society of India’s Walkathon raises awareness for an amputation-free India 

    PUNE: On the occasion of National Vascular Day, a walkathon was organized in Pune by the Vascular Society of India (VSI) to focus on the critical issues of amputation prevention and vascular health awareness. Vascular Society of India’s Walkathon saw enthusiastic participation from over 200 residents, who gathered at the VC office of Savitribai Phule Pune University to join the cause. The event was a part of the national walkathon which brought together over 15,000 participants across 30 cities including Pune. 

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1 million limb amputations occur globally each year, with a significant portion being preventable through early intervention and proper management of risk factors. In India, around 40-50% of all amputations are due to complications from vascular diseases, particularly diabetes. This highlights the critical need for increased awareness and preventive measures to manage risk factors like high blood sugar, hypertension, and high cholesterol. 

    Flagging off the walkathon, Dr. Pranjal Sawant, Consultant Vascular Surgeon at KEM Hospital Pune said, “The majority of surgical amputations occur due to complications associated with vascular diseases and other conditions affecting blood circulation, such as diabetes and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This walkathon was a powerful step towards our shared goal of an amputation-free world, increasing awareness about the severity of vascular diseases. We owe this success to the Vascular Society of India for their proactive role and exceptional support.”

    Commenting on the initiative, Dr.Tapish Sahu, Secretary of the Vascular Society of India, stated, “Our objective is to enhance community health by establishing a comprehensive vascular healthcare framework, striving for an amputation-free India. The overwhelming response across the nation is very encouraging. It is inspiring to see so many people come together for such a vital cause. The walkathon not only highlights the importance of vascular health but also underscores the power of community in driving change.”

    “Today’s event is a significant milestone in our mission to reduce preventable amputations in India,” said Dr. P C Gupta, President of the Vascular Society of India. “The nationwide participation demonstrates the growing commitment to vascular health and the power of collective action in driving meaningful change.”

    Preventing vascular diseases requires a multifaceted approach that includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, and routine medical check-ups. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with the avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, plays a crucial role in vascular health. Additionally, managing underlying lifestyle conditions through medication and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of vascular complications. Public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives are essential to inform people about these preventive measures and the importance of early detection and treatment of vascular conditions.

    The Vascular Society of India, a prominent chapter of the World Federation of Vascular Societies, collaborates with an extensive network of medical specialists, surgeons, interventionalists, nurses, and allied health professionals, all dedicated to the cause of saving limbs and lives. With over 700 active members across the country, VSI stands as one of the largest and most influential chapters globally, consistently working towards mitigating preventable amputations and enhancing patient care in the vascular health domain.

  • The Role of Technology in Preventing Fraud and Accelerating Business Development

    INDIA: India’s digital revolution will likely lead to 1 billion UPI transactions in the next few years. Currently, India is emerging as a world leader in digital payments by accounting for  46% of all digital payments in the world. Leveraging digital payments is an unmissable strategy for businesses in India’s growing digital economy.

    However, the rise in digital payments has also led to a rise in online fraud. In the past three years alone, online scams have caused a collective loss of Rs. 1.25 lakh crore. In response, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has established various committees focused on protecting individuals and businesses, and the financial sector is increasingly turning to cutting-edge technology to tackle these threats.

    Technology plays a crucial role in safeguarding businesses from online fraud while enabling them to benefit from the country’s growing digital economy.

    Akash Sinha, CEO & Co-Founder, Cashfree Payments

    Akash Sinha, CEO & Co-Founder, of Cashfree Payments, said, “In today’s digital landscape, prioritizing safety and security against fraudulent transactions is crucial for businesses to avoid financial losses and protect their reputation. Leveraging technology-driven innovations that use AI and ML algorithms can significantly enhance defenses against fraud. These advanced solutions are transforming the security framework for online transactions in India, providing merchants with unmatched protection and peace of mind.”

    Today, secure payment solutions are required to protect businesses from fraud-related losses and build trust with customers.

    “Many businesses either overlook the importance of fraud and risk detection tools or use ones that can’t stop fraudulent transactions in real time. Additionally, creating effective fraud solutions often requires special certifications. However, it’s crucial to recognize that when customers feel secure about their transactions, they’re more likely to make repeat purchases and recommend the business to others, which drives growth.”, Akash added.

    Payment solutions that are technology-driven have complete risk management capabilities.  Data security measures like encryption and tokenization ensure that all customer data is protected, reducing the chances of data breaches. Furthermore, robust risk management systems can assist companies in meeting regulatory obligations, thereby reducing additional risks.

    Sinha further said, “At Cashfree Payments, we have built ‘RiskShield’ through extensive research to provide businesses with a comprehensive risk management solution to combat cybercrime. Designed to address issues such as high chargebacks and fraud, RiskShield is effective across various sectors including financial services, e-commerce, and travel. Utilizing advanced AI and ML algorithms, RiskShield helps businesses reduce fraudulent activities by up to 40%.”

    In the modern business world, companies can only succeed if they begin to invest in sophisticated fraud detection systems, secure payment gateway technologies, and extensive customer verification procedures.

  • Dr. Rakesh Jain: ADYPU’s Visionary New Vice-Chancellor and Education Advocate


    Dr Ajeenkya DY Patil welcoming Dr Rakesh Jain

    PUNE: Ajeenkya DY Patil University (ADYPU) today announced veteran educationist Dr Rakesh Jain as the new Vice-Chancellor. He assumed the office from August 2024.

    Dr. Rakesh Jain brings along a rich professional experience in academics and research with over 38 years in higher education and leadership roles. He has also served on various state-level development committees.  With a PhD in Transportation Engineering, an ME in Town Planning, and a BE in Civil Engineering, Dr Jain is renowned for his expertise in transportation, geotechnical engineering, and town planning. He has authored various books and published over 150 research papers.

    Dr Rakesh Jain said, “ It is an honor to be a part of Ajeenkya DY Patil University which truly is making a positive impact on the society through its distinctive education, innovative research, and relentless pursuit of excellence in teaching and learning. My vision would be to lead the transformation of ADYPU into a digitally enabled institution of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. In today’s dynamic times, it is imperative to empower the learners of tomorrow to thrive in the digital age and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable society.”

    Welcoming the new Vice Chancellor, Dr Ajeenkya DY Patil, President, of Ajeenkya DY Patil University said “Dr Rakesh Jain is assuming office at a critical juncture and at a time when the university has undertaken an ambitious infrastructure development plan to create world-class facilities for students and research and prepare global Indian professionals for the world. We are proud to have onboard a veteran educationist and researcher like Dr Jain and I am sure it would indeed give a fillip to our vision and goals.”

  • SecondAct Inaugural Awards to Honor Women

    INDIA: SecondAct, a leading platform dedicated to fostering learning, upskilling, and holistic growth for organizations and individuals, proudly announces the launch of the Inaugural SecondAct Awards. The prestigious event aims to recognize and celebrate extraordinary women who have fearlessly reshaped their paths, demonstrating resilience, determination, and an indomitable spirit throughout their unique journeys.

    The event was graced by Kiran Bedi as the Chief Guest and her presence undoubtedly set the tone for an evening of empowerment and celebration. Among the incredible women being honored are Pooja Bedi, an actress turned wellness entrepreneur; Rashi Narang, founder of Heads Up for Tails; Madhura Dasgupta Sinha, founder of Aspire for Her; and Anuradha Das Mathur, founding dean of The Vedica Scholars Program for Women.

    Archana Dutta, Founder and CEO at SecondAct, expressed her excitement about the event stating, “SecondAct inaugural awards event is a tribute to the remarkable women who have not only transformed their own lives but also paved the way for others to follow. Their stories serve resilience and reinvention as powerful reminders that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams and make a significant impact. By shining a light on their stories, SecondAct aims to inspire countless others to embrace their second acts, rewrite their narratives, and find strength in vulnerability.”

    L-R- Archana Dutta, Founder, and CEO, Second Act, and Ms. Kiran Bedi

    Kiran Bedi added, “I am honored to be a part of the SecondAct event that celebrates the strength and courage of women who have dared to chart their paths. Their journeys are a testament to the power of determination and the human spirit. I hope their stories inspire others to find their second acts and make a difference in their lives and communities.”

    The Inaugural SecondAct Awards mark the culmination of three years of dedicated groundwork. The awards honor the transformative power and unwavering courage of women who defy convention, reinvent themselves, and redefine their lives.

    The Inaugural SecondAct Awards promise to be an evening of inspiration, celebration, and recognition of the phenomenal women who have redefined their lives and continue to inspire others.

  • Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s Launches BigWing in Pune


    Now, BigWing in Pune

    Delights biking enthusiasts with an exclusive range of premium motorcycles (300cc – 500cc) at BigWing in Pune

    State-of-the-art one-stop sales and service center for Honda big bikes

    PUNE: In a significant move towards expanding its footprint across the nation and redefining the premium motorcycle landscape in the region, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) proudly inaugurated an all-new premium motorcycle sales and service outlet, Honda BigWing in Pune, Maharashtra.

    Heralding a transformative era for motorcycle enthusiasts, this new BigWing dealership promises an unparalleled immersive experience for riders who seek nothing but the best. Located in the heart of Pune, this state-of-the-art facility aims to elevate the #GoRidin spirit amongst new as well as prospective customers.

    Expanding its last-mile presence to cater to aspirational customers, the differentiated BigWing can now be experienced at more than 140 operational touchpoints across India.

    Premium Experience

    Adorned with the black & white monochromatic theme, BigWing showcases the displayed vehicles in their full glory. The highly trained and knowledgeable professionals at BigWing assist customers in resolving their product or accessories-related queries. Easing the journey from search to purchase, the dedicated website (www.HondaBigWing.in) is available for detailed information. The online booking option on the website ensures a quick, seamless, and transparent booking experience for customers at their fingertips. Capturing real-time customer feedback, Honda BigWing is also actively available across all social media platforms.

    Ensuring the safety and convenience of customers, Honda BigWing offers an Immersive Digital Experience. The virtual platform – https://virtualshowroom.hondabigwing.in allows customers to experience the entire fun motorcycle line-up, riding gears and accessories in granular detail while sitting in the comforts of their home.

    Diverse Product Portfolio

    Honda’s premium motorcycle retail format is led by the BigWing Topline – for the entire premium motorcycle range (300cc – 1800cc) in top metros and BigWing – exclusively for the mid-size motorcycle segment (200cc – 500cc) in other cities. Its diverse range of motorcycles includes the all-new CB350, H’ness CB350, CB350RS, CB300F, CB300R, NX500, XL750 Transalp, Africa Twin, and Gold Wing Tour. Moreover, the Hornet 2.0 and CB200X are also now retailed via BigWing showrooms.

    Offering new experiences to customers with the All-New ‘NX500’

    HMSI kickstarted the calendar year 2024 with the launch of an all-new ‘NX500’ adventure tourer at an attractive price of Rs. 5,90,000 (ex-showroom). Directed by the design theme of ‘Daily Crossover’, this new model makes its way to the Indian market through the CBU* route (*Completely Built-Up).

    Powering the all-new Honda NX500 is a 471cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke DOHC engine with a parallel twin-cylinder layout that offers a well-proportioned balance of enjoyable performance with an energetic high-revving character and a zappy top end. This motor churns out 35kW power at 8,600rpm and 43Nm of peak torque at 6,500rpm, paired with a slick-changing 6-speed gearbox.

    Showroom & Workshop – Honda BigWing Pune South (Yash Automobiles), Krome Mall Shop No 1, Next to Vijay Sales, Hadapsar, Pune – 411013 (Maharashtra)

  • Celebrating 9 Years of Fitness Excellence with MultiFit

    PUNE: MultiFit, established with the noble aim of nurturing a lively community of fitness enthusiasts dedicated to sharing and embracing the essence of fitness with all, is pleased to announce its 9th anniversary. MultiFit’s mission is to cultivate a diverse community of fitness lovers who inspire others to integrate fitness as a practical and integral part of their lives. Celebrating Fitness Excellence with MultiFit.

    For nearly a decade, MultiFit has been at the forefront of promoting holistic wellness. With interactive programs like Woof Gang, FittyParty, Socials, Outbounds, War of MultiFitters, and Ultimate Bounce, it has made fitness a dynamic and enjoyable experience for all its members. As it celebrates its 9th anniversary, MultiFit continues to captivate fitness enthusiasts around the world with its unique approach to fitness and wellness.

    The anniversary celebrations at MultiFit have been a grand testament to the journey and impact the brand has had on the fitness landscape. Festivities commenced with a ceremonial cake cutting at every center, creating a sense of unity and celebration among members. This was followed by the thrilling “War of MultiFitters”, a series of competitive events designed to test the mettle of participants across all MultiFit centers.

    The War of MultiFitters was a combination of various high-energy challenges, each crafted to push the participants to their limits and showcase their fitness prowess. The enthusiasm and spirit were palpable as MultiFitters from different centers competed fiercely, displaying incredible determination and camaraderie. The semifinals, held at MultiFit Grand Tamanna, were nothing short of spectacular. Participants gave their all, pushing through grueling challenges and displaying exceptional skill and sportsmanship.

    The grand finale at MultiFit Kharadi was a fitting climax, featuring electrifying performances and an atmosphere charged with excitement. The event was further elevated by the presence of Health and Recovery partners like Curapod by litemed and UpUrFit who added to the celebratory spirit with their support and contributions. The coveted title of War of MultiFitters was ultimately won by the team from MultiFit Kalyani Nagar Annexe, who demonstrated outstanding performance and teamwork throughout the competition.

    In addition to the competitive events, the celebrations on the 27th included MultiFit Socials, a social gathering aimed at bringing MultiFitters together to celebrate their achievements in the War of MultiFitters and to forge new connections. The gathering was a testament to the strong community that MultiFit has built over the years, where members not only strive for personal fitness goals but also support and motivate each other.

    Reflecting on this milestone, Deepti Sharma, Director of MultiFit, expressed her enthusiasm: “As we celebrate our 9th anniversary, we are proud of our journey in transforming fitness into a fun and holistic lifestyle. Looking ahead, we aim to continue expanding and innovating, bringing dynamic and engaging experiences to fitness enthusiasts worldwide.”

    MultiFit remains at the forefront of innovation and inspiration, offering a diverse range of programs tailored to all fitness levels, from beginners to elite athletes. Looking ahead, MultiFit is dedicated to pushing boundaries and empowering individuals to achieve their fitness goals.

  • P N Gadgil Jewellers Ltd Receives SEBI Approval for IPO: A Golden Opportunity for Investors

    PUNE: P N Gadgil Jewellers Limited, the second largest among the prominent organized jewelry players in Maharashtra, in terms of the number of stores as of January 2024, which is the largest market for BIS-registered outlets in India. P N Gadgil Jewellers has received the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) approval for its proposed initial public offering (IPO).

    The Company’s initial public offering comprises a fresh issue of equity shares of the face value of ₹ 10 each aggregating up to ₹ 8,500 million and an offer for sale of equity shares of the face value of ₹ 10 each aggregating up to ₹ 2,500 million. The total offer size comprises of equity shares of face value of ₹ 10 each aggregating up to ₹ 11,000 million. The offer for sale comprises of equity shares of face value of ₹ 10 each aggregating up to ₹ 2,500 million by SVG Business Trust (Promoter Selling Shareholder).

    The funds raised through the IPO are proposed to be utilized for the funding of expenditure towards setting up of 12 new stores in Maharashtra, repayment or pre-payment, in full or part, of certain borrowings availed by the Company; and general corporate purposes.

    Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors Limited, Nuvama Wealth Management Limited (formerly known as Edelweiss Securities Limited), and BOB Capital Markets Limited are the Book Running Lead Managers to the issue.

    Link: https://www.sebi.gov.in/filings/processing-status/jul-2024/processing-status-issues_59558.html

  • Club Mahindra’s Luxurious Villas in North Goa


    Club Mahindra’s Luxurious Villas in North Goa

    Club Mahindra’s Luxurious Villas provide members access to unparalleled serenity and luxury

    GOA: Club Mahindra has strengthened its presence in North Goa through a strategic partnership with Lohono Stays- a preeminent brand in serviced luxury villas. This collaboration provides Club Mahindra’s members access to six luxurious villas, perfectly nestled in tranquil surroundings, offering breathtaking beach views, sophisticated interiors, and modern amenities. Club Mahindra’s members can now access exquisite accommodations (Luxurious Villas) in North Goa, further solidifying the brand’s commitment to providing exceptional and enriching holiday experiences.

    The latest additions to Club Mahindra’s portfolio are six stunning properties in North Goa: Aroha Palms Majestic, Aroha Palms Grande, Bastora House at Bardez, Igreha Villa C, Igreha Villa F, and Ishavilas at Siolim. Each villa offers a harmonious blend of modern comfort and old-world charm, with striking interiors, lush green environs, and private pools that create a tranquil oasis.

    Surrounded by lush greenery and located near popular beaches, these properties offer guests a unique blend of serenity and adventure. The guests can immerse themselves in a world of soothing beauty and thrill-seeking experiences, including speed boat rides, banana boat rides, jet skiing, parasailing, surfing, yacht sailing, kayaking, and fishing.

    Santhosh Kutty, Chief Business Officer, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited, said, “We are excited to unveil these luxurious villas as a new addition to the Club Mahindra portfolio. These exquisite retreats offer our members unparalleled tranquillity and sophistication, perfect for serene family getaways or intimate celebrations. At Club Mahindra, we strive to create unforgettable vacation moments, and these stunning villas epitomize our unwavering commitment to exceptional quality and guest satisfaction. We are enthusiastic about our continued growth and the opportunity to provide our members with extraordinary stays.”

  • Transforming Hygiene Education In Delhi


    Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme

    Reckitt and Jagran Pehel Unveil Dettol School Hygiene Programme in Delhi with MCD

    Aims to reach 4.5 million beneficiaries, educating them on essential hygiene practices

    NEW DELHI: Reckitt, one of the world’s leading consumer health and hygiene companies, has launched the Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme in Delhi under its flagship campaign, Dettol Banega Swasth India. In collaboration with Jagran Pehel, the social initiative arm of Dainik Jagran, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to implement the campaign across MCD schools in 12 zones of Delhi. The initiative aims to reach 4.5 million beneficiaries, including school children, teachers, and parents, encouraging and empowering communities to adopt better WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) behaviors and practices.

    Launched by campaign ambassador Ayushmann Khurrana, the Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme will focus on promoting hygiene practices by training teachers and students and raising awareness through various activities in Delhi schools. As part of the campaign, practical sessions will be conducted aligned with the “Bajegi Ghanti, Dhulenge Haath” campaign, to educate students on the importance of handwashing. Additionally, hygiene corners equipped with Dettol soaps, sanitizers, and handwashes will be installed.

    Poor hand hygiene has significant repercussions on public health in India, particularly affecting children who are more vulnerable to Diarrhoeal diseases. This has far-reaching economic repercussions, including healthcare expenses and lost productivity. The Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme aims to address these issues by promoting good hygiene practices and creating a healthier and safer learning environment, leveraging Dettol’s trusted brand reputation.

    Gaurav Jain, Executive Vice President, of Reckitt – South Asia, said, “At Reckitt, we are consistently working to build a cleaner and healthier world through initiatives that focus on inculcating proper hygiene practices. The launch of the Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme in Delhi is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact that reaches every corner of our great land. Over the years, the program has successfully created a significant impact, fostering active participation and engagement from children, with strong support from teachers and other stakeholders. By equipping the next generation with the tools and knowledge to maintain good health and hygiene, we aim to drive behavior change and instill lasting habits among millions of children across India.”

    In partnership with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the initiative is focused on reducing diarrhea diseases among children aged 0-5 and increasing school attendance through a comprehensive hygiene curriculum across Delhi. The goal is to develop children as ambassadors of cleanliness and hygiene, ingraining handwashing as a key aspect of good health.

    Sameer Gupta, Executive President & Treasurer, of Jagran Prakashan Ltd., said, “The link between hygiene and public health is clearer than ever, yet proper handwashing practices are still lacking in many parts of the country. The Dettol School Hygiene Education Programme is an essential initiative to enhance sanitary practices in schools, homes, and communities by promoting behavioral changes. We are proud to partner with Reckitt and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi in empowering school teachers and students, instilling vital habits that will create a lasting positive impact on our society.”

    The program sensitizes children about six critical occasions for handwashing, including washing hands after defecation and using toilets, before eating, before preparing and serving food, before feeding infants/children, after cleaning a child’s bottom, and after coughing or sneezing during illness. The initiative aims to create a lasting impact on public health and hygiene practices by fostering an enabling environment in educational institutions, empowering teachers as agents of change, and improving students’ knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and practices related to hygiene and sanitation.