Ankit Wadhawan Emerged As The FTS 3.0 Main Event Winner With A Jaw-Dropping Pay Out Of INR 33 Lakhs

With an intention to boost the larger appetite for online gaming in India, Final Table Series 3.0, India’s first-ever virtual poker event, concluded its third edition with by crowning India’s next poker master – Ankit Wadhawan.  

Chandigarh based Ankit Wadhawan grabbed the top spot as FTS 3.0 Main Event winner. He played exceptionally well by knocking 5 other players at the final table and took home a jaw-dropping pay out of over INR 33 lakhs along with an 18K Gold Medallion with diamond studs, a certificate, and a hamper. In addition, other 11 winners of Marquee Tournaments & THE FEAST including Shagun Jain, Chandan Arora, Vivek Singh, Vaibhav Sharma, Aman Kumar Sharma among others bagged an 18K Gold Medallion, a certificate, and a hamper while other 21 winners for tournaments received a Silver Medallion, a certificate, and a hamper. 

Congratulating the winners of FTS 3.0, Mr Amin Rozani, Group CEO of Quadrific Media Pvt Ltd said, “We are delighted with the players’ enthusiasm and interest that keeps pushing us to continue organising such virtual poker events twice a year, so they can have a bigger platform to master their skills and compete with other poker legends across the nation.” 

Talking about his win and experience playing at the virtual table of FTS 3.0, Ankit Wadhawan, the Main Event winner said, “This edition has been a roller coaster ride for me, moving from the final table of Head-hunter event to winning the FTS 3.0 Main Event was a great feeling that I’m unable to put in words. Final Table Series is a great platform for Indian poker players, I am thankful to the entire team for arranging such a nail-biting poker series and giving us all an opportunity to showcase our skills.”  

Keeping the live stream fun and engaging, internationally renowned poker personalities such as actor turned poker superstar Sam Razavi and two-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner Kevin Macphee along with the first-ever Spartan Poker's Millionaire United winner, Mahima Walia presented the 7 marquee tournaments on YouTube and cross-posted on approximately 10 other platforms. 

About Quadnet Poker Network:  

Quadnet Poker Network (www.quadnet.co) is an initiative by Quadrific Media Private Limited (QMPL). QMPL is an India-centric one-stop gaming destination that offers a seamless, multi-gaming experience including poker, rummy, and other gaming formats. Founded in 2014 by Amin Rozani, Peter Abraham, and Sameer Rattonsey, Quadrific Media Private Limited started with poker as its forte. They created well-known IPs in both the live (India Poker Championship) and online poker space to empower players from across the country to play and compete with each other at the highest levels. The group aims to encourage mind sports as a profitable and consumer-friendly entertainment avenue where young aspirants can even look at taking gaming up as a rewarding career. 

Jaguar XF Embarks On A Thrilling Chase Across London To Celebrate The Release Of No Time To Die

* Hottest ticket in town: Jaguar Racing’s Mitch Evans embarks on a race across London to be amongst the first to see the early anticipated James Bond film, No Time To Die, released in the UK on September 30 2021

* The thrill of the chase: Behind the wheel of Jaguar’s latest XF Saloon, Evans is pursued across the British capital by renowned free runner and Parkour athlete Lynn Jung

* Serenity in the city: The XFs luxurious cabin featuring Active Noise Cancellation and Cabin Air Ionisation technology provides a tranquil sanctuary for Mitch Evans as Lynn tackles the busy streets on foot

* Agility and composure: Jaguar’s lightweight aluminium-intensive architecture deliver exceptional handling and agility together with outstanding ride, comfort and refinement for the drive across town

* No Time To Die XF film debut: Two Jaguar XFs make their Bond debut in No Time To Die

To mark the eagerly anticipated release of No Time To Die, Jaguar’s latest XF Saloon found itself involved in a thrilling chase across London, as Jaguar Racing’s Formula E driver Mitch Evans aimed to be amongst the very first to see the film.

The action is set against some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks including the Shard, Tower Bridge, City Hall and Millennium Bridge. Mitch, who is at the wheel of the Santorini Black XF, is unaware he is being pursued by free runner and Parkour athlete Lynn Jung. The reason for their chase? He has unwittingly dropped his tickets to the screening and Lynn is determined to ensure his wait to see No Time To Die is over.

The six-mile chase starts in Laffone Street, close to Tower Bridge, and weaves its way across the city with Lynn running, jumping and somersaulting in pursuit of Mitch, who is enjoying the XF’s luxury, comfort and serenity thanks to its Active Noise Cancellation and Cabin Air Ionisation technology.

Distanced from the noise and chaos of the city around him, Mitch focuses on the drive, making the most of the XF’s precise, intuitive steering – and the responsive, refined performance of its Ingenium engine. The action concludes in London’s famous Baker Street, where the tickets are returned in spectacular style, allowing Mitch to finally enjoy No Time to Die.

Throughout the race across town, 007 fans will spot a few familiar faces along the route, including a bullet-holed XF from No Time to Die as well as notable Jaguar models that appeared in past films, including the C-X75 from Spectre (2015) and the XKR Convertible from Die Another Day (2002).

Anna Gallagher, Jaguar Brand Director, said: “The Jaguar XF is a car designed to tackle any journey with an unrivalled balance of luxury, comfort and refinement. Whether it’s a high-speed pursuit through twisting streets and piazzas of Matera where the car filmed it’s No Time To Die chase sequences, or the bustling streets of London – the XF really is a car for every occasion”.

Kovai.Co Wins The Title “Bootstrap Champ” At The Economic Times Startup Awards 2021

Kovai.co a multi-product enterprise SaaS company specializing in enterprise integration and knowledge management space based out of Coimbatore, India and London, UK., was recently awarded the “Bootstrap Champ” by Economic Times Startup Awards 2021, one of the most prestigious recognition for Indian entrepreneurs. The awards aim to honor leading Indian startups and their founders, and to encourage the thriving Indian Startup Ecosystem. Kovai.co was right on top of the jury's list due to its ability to scale, its financial heft and by being able to build a global business from tier 2 city like Coimbatore.

Commenting on receiving the award, Saravana Kumar, Founder and CEO of Kovai.co says, “Winning such awards is an endorsement and encouragement to all of us, as a team. For the past decade, we were so focused on building great products and customer obsessed. Such recognitions boost our morale and reminds us to stay on track and keep pushing ourselves further, so that we become a SaaS unicorn by 2030.”

“Also, as a team we aspire to make Coimbatore the next-big SaaS hub in the country, thus we have been working on a lot of community engagements and industry academia programs to motivate fresh talent in Tier 2 cities,” he added.

Kovai.co was founded in 2011, has 5 revenue generating Enterprise & SaaS products, presently employs more than 250+ people across multiple countries and markets.

About Kovai.co

Kovai.co is a multi-product enterprise SaaS company specializing in enterprise integration and knowledge management space based out of Coimbatore, India and London, UK. Kovai.co is a technology partner of choice for many of the world’s leading enterprises to manage and monitor their Microsoft BizTalk and Azure Serverless environments. Kovai.co’s product team consists of thinkers and innovators who are re-defining the way robust Enterprise Software and SaaS products are built.

First Procedure In APAC Performed With Meditronic Hugo Robotic-Assisted Surgery System

* The Robotic Prostatectomy Took Place at Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai, India

Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) and Apollo Hospitals Group today announced the first clinical procedure in Asia-Pacific with the Hugo™ robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) system. The robotic prostatectomy was performed on September 17 by Dr. N Ragavan, consultant urologist, uro-oncologist and robotic surgeon, at Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, Chennai, India.

“Here in India, nearly 70% of surgeries are performed as open procedures1 — we feel confident that the Hugo RAS system will enable us to change that statistic and bring the benefits of minimally invasive surgery to more patients than ever before," said Dr. Ragavan. “I am incredibly proud to launch this new era of possibility for our hospital and the patients we serve with the very first clinical procedure in the region with the system.”

As a form of minimally invasive surgery, robotic-assisted surgery offers the potential for fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, faster return to normal activities, and smaller scars.2–4,†  

“Today we’re taking another exciting step forward to bring the benefits of minimally invasive surgery to more people in more places,” said Megan Rosengarten, president of the Surgical Robotics business, which is part of the Medical Surgical Portfolio at Medtronic. “That’s possible thanks to a shared vision with Apollo Hospitals, the many surgeons and hospital leaders who have partnered with us on this journey, and our dedicated Surgical Robotics team in India and around the globe.”

The Hugo RAS system — Medtronic's solution to historic cost and utilization barriers that have kept surgical robotics out of reach for many hospitals — is a modular, multi-quadrant platform designed for a broad range of soft-tissue procedures. It combines wristed instruments, 3D visualization, and Touch Surgery™ Enterprise, a cloud-based surgical video capture and management solution, with dedicated support teams specializing in robotics program optimization, service, and training. Earlier this year, Medtronic announced that the first urologic and gynecologic procedures with the Hugo RAS system took place in Latin America. Those procedures marked the beginning of the Hugo RAS system patient registry, which is collecting clinical data from those systems as well as the system placed in India to support regulatory submissions around the world.

“With the availability of the Hugo RAS system in India, we know the future of surgery is here,” said Madan Krishnan, vice president and managing director, India Medtronic Pvt Ltd. “Medtronic is creating robotic-assisted surgery solutions that are optimized for what clinicians need today and that can be upgraded as the technology evolves and usage expands in the years to come. We’re grateful for the opportunity to partner with Apollo Hospitals on this exciting milestone and are looking forward to collaborating in advancing access to the latest therapies for patients.”

"As the region's leading healthcare provider, we are dedicated to bringing the very latest in medical technology to our patients," said Dr. Prathap C. Reddy, founder and chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group. "The addition of the Hugo RAS system to our robotic surgery program — and our place in history as the first hospital in Asia-Pacific to use this new technology — reinforces that dedication and the pride we at Apollo Hospitals have as a premier destination for minimally invasive surgery. This technology will complement the excellent clinical expertise garnered by our physicians over the years and is designed to help us enhance patient care.”

“We’re committed to providing the most advanced and innovative care possible for our patients and are proud to partner with a company that shares our values and vision,” said Ms. Preetha Reddy, executive vice chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Group. “There is an urgent need to improve treatment options for surgeries by leveraging technology. Today, robotic technology has come a long way, helping perform some of the most complicated surgeries with precision, and Apollo has always been on the forefront in bringing the most advanced technology to India.”

The Medtronic Hugo RAS system is commercially available in certain geographies. Regulatory requirements of individual countries and regions will determine approval, clearance, or market availability. The Hugo RAS system is pending CE mark for the EU. In the US, the Hugo RAS system is an investigational device not for sale. Touch Surgery Enterprise is not intended to direct surgery, or aid in diagnosis or treatment of a disease or condition.

Researchers Need To Work On Problems Relevant To The Society - Prof. V Ramgopal Rao, Director, IIT Delhi

“Instead of identifying the problems only through the literature, researchers also need to consider relevance of the problem to the society especially problems faced by large population” said Prof. V Ramgopal Rao, Director of IIT Delhi during his Masterclass on Commercialization of Research & Technology Entrepreneurship organized by Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Manipal, National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK) Surathkal and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Mangaluru on 25 September 2021. Prof. Rao, having 475 publications, 49 patents and co-founder of 2 deep tech startups, is known for Translational research, creating impact on Society and driving Innovation & Entrepreneurship ecosystem at IIT Delhi.

While delivering the lecture he highlighted the importance of developing deep technologies to create entry barriers. As India has large number of problems and Government is providing funding for the research work, faculty members must play key role in driving entrepreneurship by involving students and professionals. This will create a good number of job opportunities through startups. Startups are bridge between industry and academia. Industry – academia engagement must be on collaborative basis and not as transactional type.

In his address Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said “Faculty driven startup culture is gaining importance in recent time, due to National Innovation and Startup policy and Government grants to startups. In this context, this webinar would help the faculty members and research scholars from Manipal & other institutes, to explore the possibilities of commercializing their research work.” In his address, Prof. Karanam Umamaheshwar Rao, Director, NITK Surathkal said that educators should not limit their research work to partial fulfilment of the degrees, but should transform research work into successful actions. Mr. Jeevan Saldanha, Chairman, CII Mangaluru opined that in the current age of rapid disruptions, translational research is relevant to industries and industries must constantly engage with academia.

The masterclass  was jointly organized by  MAHE Manipal, NITK Surathkal, and CII Mangaluru in association with Manipal Universal Technology Business Incubator, Manipal – Government of Karnataka Bioincubator,  and NITK -  Science & Technology Entrepreneurs' Park (NITK-STEP). Dr. Ashok Rao, Associate Director (R&C), MIT Manipal moderated the program.

“The New World Of Technology Will Be Instrumental In Bridging The Gap In Learning:” Surendra Nath Tripathy Of IIPA

SAI International Education Group, one of the leading education institutions of India hosted the third chapter of SAI Thought Leadership, a series of discussion sessions with a focus on the development of the nation. Shri Surendra Nath Tripathy, Director General, Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) graced the occasion as the esteemed speaker along with Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson, SAI International Education Group.The topic of discussion for the session was “Changing Role of Governance Post Covid" which focused on the emphasis on digital transformation for ease of living.  

The brainchild of late Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, Founder Chairman, SAI International Education Group, SAI Thought Leadership is a vital learning platform where luminaries, each a leader of prominence and trend setter in their own field, engage in deliberation on a plethora of relevant issues and subjects with a focus on the holistic development of the individuals and the nation. The erudite speakers, via their deeply enriching talks will not just develop civic competences, regulate thought processes but act as pathfinders and problem solvers. Each session will be followed by a stimulating face to face conversation between the esteemed speaker and Dr. Silpi Sahoo, Chairperson, SAI International Education Group.  

Speaking on the session Shri Surendra Nath Tripathy, Director General, Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) addressed the need to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas to bring a holistic change in the education system. He explained, “We all know that the students were away from Class 1 to 12 for around 500 days. I would certainly suggest that now that schools are opening, to access two things. We need to understand what the Class 6 students remember from class 4. The first thirty to forty days, the teachers must invest in bridging that gap that the 500 days have brought about.” 

Remarking on the need to upskill the educators through leveraging technology, he added saying “Teachers are the backbone of the education system. This is the age of experiential learning. We need to convert all our teachers from Adhyapak to Guru as they have the power to change people’s lives. This process will driven by technology. The pedagogy of child education needs to be understood by the teacher first. I would encourage all the teachers to use the current technology and tools to upgrade the learning process. 

Addressing the question on the long-term goals for digital transformation post covid, Shri Tripathi said“What would have happened in a decade, happened in a span of 3 months. When things have changed, we cannot suddenly create 1000 teachers. Changing the mindset of policy makers and converting their ideologies can only be possible with digital transformation. Education sector is going for a major shift. The time has come to develop a universal education standard throughout the country. Technology and AI will play a big role in shaping the child’s future.” 

Dr. Silpi Sahoo humbly expressed her gratitude on behalf of all the participants to Shri Surendra Nath Tripathi for highlighting the role technology will play in shaping the future of education in India.  

As one of the leading educational institutions of India, the prime focus for SAI International Education Group has been to bring about a radical change in the education dimension by fostering a community of educators, parents, students and institutions, in a bid to make education more relevant in these changing times. Therefore, in accordance with the National Education Policy, the genesis of SAI Thought Leadership took shapewith the vision to inspire leaders who have withstood the test of time, armed with a heightened sense of equanimity. The SAI Thought Leadership is an excellent occasion where the keynote speakers show a sense of solidarity, to give something back to society, by playing an integral part that leads to enrichment of the audience. 

About SAI International Education Group: 

SAI International a leading educational group began a pioneering revolution in the K-12 and undergraduate educational scenario of Odisha. The group is led by the Founder& Mentor, Lt Dr. Bijaya Kumar Sahoo, a passionate Edupreneur, pursuing his dreams for the enhancement of education sector. It encompasses SAI International School, SAI Angan, SAI International College of Commerce and SAI International Residential School. The group strives to be one of the finest centers of learning and knowledge in the country, creating world class leaders endowed with Indian values and global outlook. 

MADAME Unveils Autumn-Winter 2021 Collection Across Indian Market

Leading women’s western-wear brand MADAME is thrilled to uncover its Autumn-Winter 2021 collection, marked by a range of striking designs, innovative styles and silhouettes. Dedicated to creating comfortable and stylish apparel for young women, MADAME launched the collection with great gusto for women with varied tastes and preferences.

Seasonal style paired with an underlying layer of comfort marks the Autumn-Winter 2021 collection for the brand. MADAME presents a beautifully designed selection of brand-new styles alongside exciting colour palettes. Consisting of core pieces such as tops and dresses, the range also exhibits a strong flavour of the winter season with items such as jackets, coats, cardigans, sweaters and sweatshirts - to complement the chilly nights of the season with smart style and warmth.

Commenting on her creative process, head designer at MADAME, Parika Rawal, said, “We are excited to present the AW'21 collection, which will provide our customers with the most up-to-date styles as well as the fit and comfort they deserve. Our journey has been remarkable, and we continue to provide the highest quality clothing to young women. Our customer base has grown over time, and we've become more creative in our approach to providing the greatest fashions. With the unveiling of AW'21, we concentrated on a diverse range that will undoubtedly meet the needs of our customers”.

MADAME’s Autumn-Winter wardrobe for this season also covers a lot of capsule collections - a limited edition set that transcends seasons and sits more comfortably as functional, everyday wear. MADAME’s Autumn-Winter 2021 collection can be purchased online as well as in stores. The collection contains a little something for everybody, with a price range that expands from INR 799 to INR 6999.

Akhil Jain, Executive Director at MADAME, commented, “We are very excited to launch the AW’21 collection that will enable our customers to style themselves in the latest trends along with the fit and comfort they desire. The key to keeping it moving in the right way is to ensure consumer loyalty and satisfaction. More and more Indian women are embracing fast, trendy fashion with open arms lately, even if it means reshuffling their wardrobes to match the respective seasons and that is why we’re very confident that the Autumn-Winter collection will lend a considerable boost in sales.”

About MADAME

MADAME, a women’s fashion brand of western wear was launched in 1993. It caters to a wide range of apparel, handbags, footwear, and accessories for young women. Ever since the takeoff of its first-ever store in 2002, the brand has briskly grown across India and has 130+ brand outlets across the country. The brand is vented through its own online store, Glamly.com and another online marketplace including Myntra, Ajio, Flipkart and Amazon. . MADAME was awarded the ‘Most Admired Retailer of The Year: Fashion and Lifestyle’ at the Images North India Retails awards in 2018. With rigorous expansion plans on the horizon, MADAME has launched many new stores in the year 2021.