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  • Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design & Technology Opens Admissions for the Academic Year 2025-26

    Srishti Manipal Institute

    7th January 2025  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design & Technology (SMI) is accepting admissions for all courses in its undergraduate and postgraduate programs for the academic year 2025-26.

    SMI is India’s premier art & design institute that offers 25 courses in Undergraduate (UG), Postgraduate (PG) and Postgraduate Diploma (PGDP) platforms. With a legacy of three decades and distinguished alumni across the world, SMI is truly ahead of the curve in the domain of art and design education, backed by a strong interconnect with technology. Currently 1500 students of SMI are mentored by 150 faculty members, with most faculty members being domain leaders and practitioners in their respective fields.

    SMI offers diverse courses ranging from Visual Communication to Product Design to unique future-ready courses like Creative Education and Public Space Design. The 4-year UG Professional Program (UGPP) leading up to a B.Des. or BFA Degree allows students to explore multiple art and design domains of their interest. The 3-year UG skill-based vocational program leading to a B.Voc. Degree is ideal for learners who are focused on industry-specific interest areas. The PG program of 2 years’ duration awards M.Des. and MA degrees. The MA program admits students with a 3-year UG Degree while the M.Des. program requires a 4-year UG Degree qualification. The one-year PG Diploma Program (PGDP) is ideal for students with a 3-year UG Degree to transit to a 4-year master’s program or to enter the field of art or design.

    Speaking about this announcement, Dr Arindam Das, Director SMI said, “Our aim at MAHE Bengaluru is to provide a transformative learning experience that equips students with the knowledge and dynamic skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving domains. Through our diverse and contemporary programs, we strive to nurture global citizens who can make a positive impact on society. We invite aspiring students to join us on this exciting journey of transdisciplinary learning, growth, and exciting possibilities.”

    Students interested in applying to SMI’s courses can visit the website at www.srishtimaniplinstitue.in to explore the courses on offer and complete the application process.

  • Nominations Open for India’s First Education Leadership Prize

    7th January 2025  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  The Shikshagraha Awards, presented by The Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives, is now open for nominations. These prestigious awards honour individuals dedicated to making education in India more accessible, equitable, and inclusive, with a particular focus on underserved communities.

    Whether it’s a teacher inspiring young minds, a parent advocating for better schools, a policymaker shaping the future of education, a young individual designing school improvement initiatives, a volunteer raising funds to build a learning centre or a community member raising awareness about the importance of the education – they all are education leaders building an equitable and inclusive education ecosystem.

    Winners of the Shikshagraha Awards will receive a prize of INR 10 lakh, distributed over two years, to support their work in transforming education and creating a lasting impact.

    Shikshagraha, built on an audacious aspiration: to reimagine public education as a shared societal mission driven by collective action, is a people’s movement to improve 1 million public schools in India by 2030, ensuring every child has access to quality education and the opportunity to dream and succeed.

    “Exceptional education leaders are the catalysts of change, and every action they take creates ripples that transform countless student lives. These leaders never give up, whatever challenge stands in their way, and this dedication inspires entire communities to join the journey toward education equity. The Shikshagraha Awards will honour such individuals who go beyond their formal roles to drive this meaningful change in India’s public education landscape,” said Mr S.D. Shibulal, Co-founder and Former Member of the Board and CEO of Infosys Ltd.; Founder, Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives and Patron – Shikshagraha.

    Nomination Process

    Nominations for the Shikshagraha Awards are open until January 20, 2025. Forms are available in Hindi, English, Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu. Interested individuals can submit their entries at shikshagraha.org/awards.

    Nominees will be evaluated based on their impact, credibility, and micro-improvement evidence in improving education outcomes. The awards will recognise exemplary education leaders working within formal systems as well as at the community level.

    Award Presentation

    The winners of the Shikshagraha Awards will be announced on March 7, 2025, in Bengaluru on the first day of InvokED 4.0 – an annual global dialogue on education leadership where experts, educators, and changemakers come together to build the movement towards education equity. As part of this visionary dialogue, the Shikshagraha Awards will spotlight the essential role of leadership in advancing education equity. The Shikshagraha Awards are more than recognition; they amplify stories of courage and inspire action across the movement towards education equity.

  • Two Living Legends of Mithila on the same page

    MITHILA2

    Patna,7th January, 2025: On January 5, 2025, Dr Birbal Jha, a highly acclaimed English litterateur, met with Bihar Museum Director General Sri Anjani Kumar Singh, a former chief secretary of the state, over a cup of tea at the Museum office itself on Nehru Road in Patna. The meeting was held post a book release ceremony on the day.

    Dr Birbal Jha reminded the then Principal Education Secretary of how British Lingua implemented Spoken English Skills training and the Capacity Building Programme for Government High School English Subject Teachers from 2009 to 2011. The program was sponsored by the State Council of Educational Research Training (SDCERT), with Mr. Hasan Waris officiating as the director during the period.

    MITHILA1

    Anjani Kumar Singh, retired IAS was appreciative of the same which was highlighted in national dailies during the period. Further, Mr. Singh invited Dr Birbal Jha, the social entrepreneur to have a yet another in his office for future course of work and development of the state. Dr Birbal Jha is the founder of British Lingua, an institute of international for English communication skills.

    Dr Birbal Jha and Mr Anjani Kumar Singh happen to be on the same page when it comes to the book Living Legends of Mithila, which was written by Vivekanand Jha and published in Delhi in 2017. Both are recognised as Mithila’s Living Legends, as the book depicts 25 famous personalities from the land of Goddess Sita.

    The living legends of Mithila, Part II, was released on 5th Jan 2025 at Orientation Hall of the newly-built museum. Dr Birbal Jha is hailed as the Youngest Living Legend of Mithila, with the volume-I being brought to public perusal in 2017.

  • IIM Raipur Flags Off Chhattisgarh Delegates for Assam Exchange Under Yuva Sangam Phase V

    IIM Raipur

    Mumbai, January 7, 2025:Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, a leading institution recognized for #BuildingBusinessOwners, flagged off the delegation of students from Chhattisgarh to Assam under the YuvaSangam Phase V initiative, a part of the Government of India’s flagship program, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharaton Monday. This cultural exchange program aims to foster unity, understanding, and collaboration among India’s youth by offering them unique opportunities to explore diverse cultures, traditions, and communities.

    The flag-off ceremony, held at the Madai Auditorium of IIM Raipur, was graced by the Inspector General of Police, Raipur Range, Amresh Mishraas the Chief Guest. Addressing the delegates, he encouraged the participants with, “YuvaSangam is more than just a journey—it’s an opportunity to experience India’s rich diversity firsthand and to build bridges of understanding and collaboration. As you explore Assam, I urge you to embrace this experience fully, learn from the traditions and values of the region, and carry forward the spirit of unity that defines our nation.”

    Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Ram Kumar Kakani, Director, of IIM Raipur said, “We at IIM Raipur take immense pride in being part of initiatives that strengthen the bonds of unity across states. YuvaSangam Phase V is a reflection of India’s ethos of celebrating diversity while working together towards shared goals. This journey will not only broaden the horizons but also instill the confidence in the students to be ambassadors of cultural harmony and national integration.”

    The delegates from Chhattisgarh shared their excitement about the program and their eagerness to explore the rich heritage and traditions of Assam. They received symbolic merchandise to commemorate their participation in YuvaSangam Phase V.

    The Chief Guest officially flagged off the delegation, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for the participants.
    Over the next five days, the delegates from Chhattisgarh will explore Assam’s vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and community life, gaining a deeper understanding of the state’s traditions and values.

    IIM Raipur is honoured to be a part of this initiative that reinforces the vision of a united India, where cultural diversity is celebrated as a strength. The institute looks forward to the delegates returning with enriched perspectives and lifelong memories of this unique exchange program.

  • The Akshaya Patra Foundation Inaugurates New State-of-the-Art Kitchen in Support with Canara Bank

    6th January 2025 Bengaluru, Karnataka, India In an aim to enhance educational outcomes through nutritional support, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, recognized as the world’s largest NGO-run school meal program and a distinguished partner of the PM POSHAN initiative, celebrated the inauguration of its 76th kitchen in Cheemasandra Village, Avalahalli Panchayat, Bidarahalli, Bangalore, supported by Canara Bank as the anchor patron donor, represents a significant extension of Akshaya Patra’s efforts to improve educational results by providing nutritional support to students. This new facility marks the organization’s sixth location in Bengaluru.

    The event was inaugurated by chief guests, Smt. Manjula Aravind Limbavali, Member of Legislative Assembly, Mahadevapura Assembly Constituency, Bengaluru, and Shri Aravind Limbavali, Former Minister, Government of Karnataka. Smt. Lathakumari IAS, CEO of Bengaluru Urban District Zilla Panchayat, graced the occasion. On-behalf of the foundation Shri Chanchalpathi Dasa, Co-Founder & Vice-Chairman, and Shri Gunakara Rama Dasa, Regional President – Bengaluru Cluster, of The Akshaya Patra Foundation were present. The event saw Shri Satyanarayana Raju K, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Canara Bank, as the anchor patron donor.

    Smt. Manjula Aravind Limbavali, Member of Legislative Assembly, Mahadevapura Assembly Constituency, Bengaluru, said, “I am delighted to be part of the inauguration of Akshaya Patra’s 76th kitchen, the newly launched kitchen is a testament to their dedication to serving nutritious meals to children and communities. This initiative reflects the spirit of service and development, bringing hope and nourishment to many and strengthening the future of Karnataka.”

    Shri Chanchalpathi Dasa, Co-Founder & Vice-Chairman, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, said, “We are immensely grateful for the support of the Government of Karnataka and Canara Bank, whose unwavering commitment has been instrumental in the inauguration of our 76th kitchen in Cheemasandra, Bengaluru. This new facility is not just a kitchen; it’s promising enhanced educational outcomes through nutritional support to over 7,500 students. The strategic location and advanced capabilities of this kitchen enable us to extend our reach and efficacy, reflecting our dedication to nurturing young minds and empowering them through education.”

    He also added, “Our heartfelt thanks to Canara Bank for their pivotal role as our anchor patron donor, and to the Government of Karnataka and The Government of India for their continuous partnership. Together, we are forging a future where no child’s educational opportunities are limited by their nutritional status.”

    The kitchen, sprawling over 5,000 square feet, is strategically located to cater to over 7,500 students across 60 government and government-aided schools in the Bidarahalli and Cheemasandra areas. It aims to provide hot, nutritious mid-day meals within a strict 4-hour cook-to-consumption timeline, emphasizing the foundation’s dedication to quality and efficiency. This effort not only aims to nourish young minds but also boosts local employment and procurement, & the facility is semi-solar powered, with future plans to incorporate more electric vehicles into its delivery fleet, reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices.

    Shri Satyanarayana Raju K, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Canara Bank said, “Our bank takes immense pride in supporting cultural and spiritual celebrations across the country, reflecting our commitment to community engagement. As we grow and prosper, we remain dedicated to contributing to the well-being of our nation, especially in Karnataka. It is a privilege to be part of the inauguration of Akshaya Patra’s 76th kitchen, a remarkable initiative that serves and uplifts the community.”

    Shri Shridhar Venkat, CEO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation said, “The transformative power of a daily meal cannot be overstated—it shapes futures, builds dreams, and nurtures the young beneficiaries. The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s success is a testament to the strength of public-private partnerships, with unwavering support from the Government of India, state governments, and generous donors. As we march towards the milestone of our 100th kitchen, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey. Together, we are creating a legacy of nourishment, hope, and empowerment.”

    Akshaya Patra’s mid-day meal offerings in Bengaluru are customized to appeal to the local palate, ensuring that they are not only nutritious but also palatable. The menu features a variety of dishes including vegetable pulav, bisibele bath, and moong dal payasam, catering to diverse tastes while promoting healthy eating habits among students. This initiative is further enhanced by The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s role as an implementing partner of the visionary ‘Ksheera Bhagya’ program by the Chief Minister of Karnataka, aimed at providing milk to schoolchildren, ensuring that their educational pursuits are not hindered by nutritional deficits.

    Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the guests toured the facility and served meals to children, visibly impressed by the foundation’s dedication to quality and community impact. The Akshaya Patra Foundation currently serves over 1.8 lakh children across 1200+ schools in Bangalore and 4.4 lakh children across 3400+ schools in Karnataka.

    This project is more than just a facility; it reflects The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s enduring dedication to nurturing young minds and fostering community participation. It also underscores the organization’s drive towards promoting healthy eating habits and advancing sustainable practices.

    With the continuous support of the Government of Karnataka and the commitment of all stakeholders, The Akshaya Patra Foundation is set to continue its mission of ensuring that ‘No child is deprived of education because of hunger.’

  • Distance MBA course in Kolkata

    Udacity And AWS collaborate to offer more free courses in Machine Learning

    Introduction– 

    A Distance MBA Course allows students to learn management principles and fundamentals at an expert level without hustling for classes and meeting schedules like in the conventional education process. Distance MBA courses in Kolkata are offered by top universities with faculty guidance and other important benefits such as networking, placement opportunities, and career advancement.

    Distance MBA Course– 

    A distance MBA course is a method of educating students about business and management fundamentals and offering a master’s degree in Business Administration by using digital platforms, internet and online learning systems after completing graduation in a relevant field. A distance MBA course covers similar subjects to a regular MBA such as finance operations, human resources and many more using digital learning processes. Distance MBA courses help students develop practical skills and knowledge by accessing workshops, team projects, webinars, etc. A distance MBA course in Kolkata is worthwhile for students as several top-rated Universities and business schools offer well-curated and completely supported MBA programs for higher education and future advancement.

    Benefits of Distance MBA course in Kolkata? 

    Flexibility- The top benefit of the distance MBA course in Kolkata is the flexibility of the program. A distance MBA course is flexible and allows students to process education with a well-organised approach which is flexible to fulfil other obligations simultaneously. 

    Accessibility- Distance MBA colleges in Kolkata allow students to access course-related material and resources by using the digital learning platform offered by the Institute.  It allows distance learners to access required learning Material by using their devices and internet only. 

    Self-paced learning- distance MBA course allows students to track their progress by using algorithms and escorts throughout the program using Technology.  It encourages self-paced learning that accelerates the learning process and meeting timelines quickly. 

    Cost-effectiveness- it is a cost-effective approach to gaining higher education and expert knowledge on Business and Management principles and practices as it does not require the cost of daily travelling, accommodation and other expenses related to reaching and being at campus.  

    Convenient– the complete approach of distance MBA courses is based on providing the most convenience among students and supporting them in balancing work obligations with studies and personal time. It offers time flexibility, location independence and 24/7 accessibility for the best convenience. 

    Networking– distance MBA course focuses on providing international business-related skills and creating Global employment opportunities for Students through collaboration and global networking. The diverse classrooms in distance MBA courses allow students to connect across borders. 

    Community support– The colleges of distance MBA courses in Kolkata offer community support among distance learners by encouraging them to become a part of virtual study groups, online forums, social media groups, alumni community and counselling sessions. 

    Placement support- distance MBA courses offer access to networking events among students that help them to connect with global recruiters, alumni, industry experts and recruiters to get necessary mental skills and guidance with genuine employment opportunities.

    Top universities or colleges offering Distance MBA courses in Kolkata– 

    The top colleges of distance MBA courses in Kolkata offering high-quality education programs approved by recognised regulatory bodies in India such as UGC, AICTE, NBA, DEB and NAAC are-

    • Amity University 
    • Sikkim Manipal University 
    • Manipal University 
    • GLA University 
    • Dr D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth 
    • Chandigarh University 
    • Manav Rachna University 
    • IGNOU 
    • Uttaranchal University

    Considerations before enrolling in a Distance MBA course– 

    Goals– Before enrolling in a Distance MBA course, candidates need to analyse their educational and professional goals to select appropriate education programs accordingly. 

    Preference– Candidates need to evaluate their preferences related to education courses and available specialisation to select suitable distance MBA courses. 

    Budget– Candidates need to analyse their budget before selecting a distance MBA college and course. It is essential to ensure the efficient allocation of funds to achieve its strategic objectives. 

    College Ranking– To acquire the most benefit from Education courses students should evaluate the accreditation, reputation, specialisation and other important resources of colleges offering distance MBA courses in Kolkata. 

    Support from college– A college for distance MBA courses in Kolkata should offer necessary support such as faculty guidance, networking opportunities, placement benefits, global exposure, etc.

    Who is eligible for the Distance MBA course in Kolkata? 

    A candidate who has completed a bachelor’s degree in any field from a recognised college or university with a minimum of 50% marks is eligible for a distance MBA course in Kolkata. Additionally, some colleges may or may not require scores of entrance exams for admission such as XAT, MAT, CAT, etc. It is also possible that some colleges may require candidates to pass a language proficiency test to secure a seat in the program. 

    Conclusion– 

    To conclude, a distance MBA course is a professional program that helps candidates to develop master skills in business administration and management. Individuals can select appropriate colleges for Distance MBA in Kolkata considering their preferences, budget, College ranking and other important factors.

  • Ashoka University Sparks Scientific Curiosity with High School Outreach for Immunology

    5 headline: Sonipat, Haryana, January 06th, 2025: Ashoka University, India’s premier interdisciplinary higher education and research-focused institution, hosted a High School outreach event as part of its Global ImmunoCourse (GIC), welcoming 60 enthusiastic students from Government Senior Secondary School Jakholi, Kendriya Vidyalaya, and Delhi Public School on December 21, 2024. This event, supported by the Trivedi School of Biosciences of Ashoka University, was specially designed to ignite passion in immunology through engaging lectures and hands-on activities. Throughout the event, the Master’s students attending the GIC served as the primary medium of communication with the school kids, ensuring that complex scientific concepts were presented in an approachable and engaging manner.

    This High School Outreach by Ashoka University was part of the Global ImmunoCourse (GIC) 2024 event, organised by Professor Imroze Khan, Assistant Dean of Research, Ashoka University, Professor Dipyaman Ganguly, Trivedi School of Biosciences, Ashoka University, Dipendra Nath Basu, Simon-Ashoka Early Career Fellow, Ashoka University, Professor Carla Rothlin and Sourav Ghosh both from Yale School of Medicine, from December 13 to 23, 2024 where students with a keen interest in immunology participated and gained comprehensive introduction to the foundational knowledge of the field through discussions and lectures from leading experts. These participants helped the school students understand complex scientific concepts on Immunology, and addressed their queries, thereby igniting their curiosity for the field.

    The school students got the opportunity to discuss career pathways in Science with leading faculty from Yale, Michigan, and Ashoka University. Post the inauguration by Dr. Rama Akondy, Associate Professor at Ashoka University, Dr. Lindsey Hughes, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Michigan, USA and the lead instructor of the High School Outreach, Carla Rothlin, Dorys McConnell Duberg Professor of Immunobiology and Professor of Pharmacology at Yale School of Medicine and Sourav Ghosh, Professor of Neurology and Professor of Pharmacology at Yale School of Medicine introduced students to the immune system, delving into topics such as innate versus adaptive immunity, the role of pathogens, and the vital function of antibodies.

    Students also got the unique opportunity to explore antigen-antibody specificity using 3D-printed models, which facilitated a deeper understanding of how antibodies bind to pathogens and the diversity of immune responses among individuals. They also learned about immunological memory and vaccines, explaining how primary and secondary immune responses protect against diseases and highlighting the success of vaccination campaigns, such as the eradicating smallpox.

    Interactive activities brought concepts to life, with students participating in a herd immunity simulation. Using balls as proxies for pathogens, they visualized how vaccination levels impact disease spread, making the concept of community immunity tangible and memorable.

    On this unique outreach programme, Imroze Khan, Associate Professor at Department of Biology, Ashoka University said, “Through initiatives like these, we aim to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists. It is incredibly rewarding to see these young students engage with complex scientific concepts and recognize the potential of immunology as a field of study and future careers.”

    Prof. Sourav Ghosh from Yale University, who is also one of the key organizers of GIC, said, “The High School outreach is a powerful reminder of the importance of fostering scientific curiosity at an early age. By connecting students with leading experts as well as senior students from the field, Ashoka University has provided a unique opportunity for high school students to explore complex immunology concepts while also gaining insight into potential career paths in the field.”

    Prof Anurag Agrawal, Head, Koita Center for Digital Health and Dean, BioSciences and Health Research, Trivedi School of Biosciences, Ashoka University said, “We are proud that the Trivedi School of Biosciences supported this initiative as we are dedicated to creating opportunities for young minds to engage with cutting-edge science and research. Such outreach helps bridge the gap between academic expertise and budding curiosity, showcasing the transformative potential of science in education.”

    Prof. Somak Raychaudhury, Vice Chancellor, Ashoka University, said, “At Ashoka University, we are committed to providing students with opportunities which enhances their depth and breadth of scientific understanding. This outreach reflects our belief in creating pathways for young minds to connect with real-world research, fostering critical thinking and curiosity about the role of science in shaping our lives and future.”

    The event is one among many that showcase Ashoka University’s commitment to making science accessible and engaging, helping inspire a love for science among young learners. The platform not only sparked curiosity but also provided an invaluable opportunity for young minds to engage directly with experts, making science both accessible and inspiring.

  • Governor Jishnu Dev Verma Urges Youth to Drive Economic Progress at Convocation

    Hyderabad, 6th January 2025: Shri Jishnu Dev Verma, Governor of Telangana, emphasized that youth must play a crucial role in the economic progress of the country. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the School of Post Graduate Studies held at the Engineering Staff College of India on Friday, the Governor highlighted the importance of skill development and the need for young people to adapt to rapidly advancing technologies in the world.

    The Governor noted that the slogan “Jai Jawan – Jai Kisan” given by Lal Bahadur Shastri, “Jai Vignan” by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and “Jai Anusandhan” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi should be viewed as symbols of the immense potential of Indian youth. He urged the youth to embrace new skills and work in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, Data Sciences, and Machine Learning, which are becoming global challenges. The Governor stressed that by honing these skills, the youth would have the opportunity to succeed and make an impact.

    Encouraging young people to “Dream Big, and Achieve Big,” the Governor urged them to welcome new innovations. He highlighted the inspirational messages given to the youth by prominent figures like Nelson Mandela, Swami Vivekananda, and Narayana Murthy of Infosys, stating that when the immense energy within the youth is channeled, it will transform the economic landscape of India. He called on the youth to use their education and skills for the progress of the nation.
    During the ceremony, the Governor presented gold and silver medals as well as certificates of appreciation to students from various batches. Before this, the graduates took an oath to dedicate their education to the progress of the country.

    The event also saw the participation of Shri V.B. Singh, President of the Institution of Engineers, who spoke about the continued advancements in engineering education. He mentioned that the Institution of Engineers, established in Kolkata in 1920, has now expanded to 125 cities across India, with over 260,000 engineers as its members, contributing significantly to the economic progress of the nation.

    Dr. G. Rameshwar Rao, Director of the Engineering Staff College of India, shared that the institution trains at least 7,000 engineers annually across 12 departments. He also mentioned that this college, inaugurated by the then President of India, Dr. R. Venkataraman, in 1981, is the only one of its kind in Asia.
    Dr. Jagannathan Mohan Reddy, Principal of the School of Post Graduate Studies, mentioned that since its inception in 2008, the school has produced thousands of graduates, and today, 144 students would be receiving their certificates during the ceremony.

    As part of the event, the Governor also honored students trained under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and those trained in the Military Engineering Service with certificates and awards. The Governor concluded the ceremony by posing for group photographs with all the awardees.

  • A Book on Cleanliness and Waste Management

    3rd January 2025 Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, India Students from Jamshedpur schools have come together to launch a first-of-its-kind book – Swachhta Samvaad, focused on cleanliness, hygiene, and waste management. The initiative, led by TATA Steel UISL in partnership with Potli Productions aligns with the government’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan seeking to foster environmental consciousness among the city’s youth.

    Over 3,000 students participated in the campaign, which began with a city-wide essay competition on cleanliness practices and challenges. Following this, the selected 43 students participated in a creative writing workshop, under the guidance of Deepali Raina, Founder of Potli Productions. The workshop, focused on storytelling and effective communication, helped students craft the narratives that are encapsulated in the Swachhta Samvaad.

    The book features a wide range of topics covering various aspects of cleanliness and waste management. In the “Expressions” section, students write about reducing landfills, the philosophy of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” and innovative ways to turn waste into resources through bio-methanation. Creative contributions like poems and stories bring these themes to life, with pieces such as “Festivals and New Clothes,” which explores the concept of reuse, and “The Dustbin Diaries,” a narrative focused on waste segregation.

    One of the highlights is the graphic novel Toxic Doom, which engages readers with environmental themes. The “Our City” section offers insights into Jamshedpur’s waste management landscape, interviews with local safai karmachari and outlines the roles of different stakeholders in keeping the city clean. Practical solutions and everyday habits for promoting cleanliness are also featured in the “Insights” section, followed by an interactive “Fun Time” section with fill-in-the-blank activities, riddles, and a game called “Choose the Right Dustbin.”

    Krishna Kumar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner, said, “This is first-of-its-kind student led book on cleanliness and such initiatives need to showcased and promoted at national level as well. I congratulate our young authors who have made our city proud. I also thank Potli Productions team for doing a phenomenal job.”

    Reflecting on the project, Deepali Raina, Founder, Potli Productions said, “The active participation of students throughout this process has been inspiring. Creative expression through media has proven to be an effective tool in getting the youth involved in crucial social discussions. The energy and dedication of the students have made Swachhta Samvaad a true reflection of their aspirations for a cleaner city.”

    Rabindra Kumar Singh, General Manager (Town O&EM), TATA Steel UISL shared, “Reaffirming our organisational commitment, this initiative has instilled in students a greater sense of responsibility towards maintaining cleanliness in their communities. The creativity and insights reflected in the book speak volumes about the commitment of Jamshedpur’s young citizens to a cleaner, greener future. We thank the team Potli Productions for this collaboration.”

    Potli Productions is a creative organisation dedicated to empowering individuals through creative expressions. In partnership with government, schools, corporates and NGOs, it works on three key areas: Life Skills, Culture Preservation, and Active Citizenship. In Life Skills programs, it equips them with essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and leadership—fostering their holistic development. It promotes cultural heritage, helping individuals connect with their roots through creative expression. Its focus on Active Citizenship encourages civic responsibility, empowering individuals to engage actively in their communities.

  • Vaidyaratnam to Collaborate with Johns Hopkins University

    3rd January 2025 Thrissur, Kerala, India The Vaidyaratnam Group is poised for a research collaboration with Johns Hopkins University, USA, the First-of-its-kind in the history of Ayurveda. Vaidyaratnam and Johns Hopkins University will jointly conduct research in cardiovascular diseases.

    “We are excited about the new developments. Both Vaidyaratnam and Johns Hopkins University take pride in a glorious tradition that dates back centuries. Our proposed collaboration with the world’s most renowned private research university will benefit the healthcare sector at large,” said Ashtavaidyan Dr. E.T. Neelakandhan Mooss, Managing Director of Vaidyaratnam Group.

    Managing Director Ashtavaidyan Dr. E.T. Neelakandhan Mooss and Executive Director Ashtavaidyan Dr. E.T. Krishnan Mooss held discussions with university officials at the Baltimore campus. Dr. Venu Rajamony, Former Ambassador of India to the Netherlands, Dr. Reghu Natarajan, Ex-Director of Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET), and Dr. Shelby Kutty, Professor – Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, were also present.

    Established in 1876, Johns Hopkins is America’s first research university, an institution that has revolutionized higher education in the U.S. and continues to bring knowledge and discoveries to the world.

    Vaidyaratnam Group is at the forefront of validating the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda through scientific research, using tools like Artificial Intelligence. Vaidyaratnam medicines are available across the length and breadth of India through their network of more than 2000 dealerships. The products are exported to the GCC countries, South East Asian Countries, Europe, US and Australia as well.