Budget Reactions From Industry Leaders Of Oil, Energy And Education Sectors

 

BUDGET REACTION from Oil and Energy Sector:  

 Mr Baroruchi Mishra, Group CEO, NET Enterprise says overall a balanced budget aimed at job creation which in turn will lead to increased consumption and propel growth. It also has a good focus on energy transition.

1.Focus on Water Management including solid waste management for large cities is particularly heartening. Proper implementation of the solid waste management will key to success.

There is great scope for 3 way collaboration here - Centre,States and private sector. The agencies that need to implement this will need to get innovative with the technology choices - proven techs like chemical recycling of single use plastics, plasma gasification of solids wastes etc should be evaluated. This should not be mired into the bureaucratic red tape as this can lead to reduction in fossil fuel use if done correctly.

2. Aspiration to involve private sector in modular nuclear reactors for green energy is a positive step in energy transition.

3. Instead of promising free electricity @300 units for I Cr households under PM Surya Ghar Bijli Yojna, the government should have announced more enabling subsidises for solar panel installations and battery procurement. And let the population get addicted to using Solar as much as they can. The word “free” is toxic for the economy and kills enterprise. 

4. Emphasis on Climate Finance is good; Banks and lending Financial institutions should not stall the noble intent of the government.

I assume “ mitigation related investments” will cover carbon capture and storage (CCUS) as this is the only pathway to carbon reduction in the hard-to-abate sectors like cement and steel. Widespread use of DRI for making green steel will take at at least 10-15 years; we cannot wait that long as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjust Tax will hit steel exports by 2026. US and other countries may follow suit making our steel exports uncompetitive.

BUDGET REACTION FROM THE EDUCATION SECTOR

Usha iyer, Principal and managing director of The Green School Bangalore says that it is indeed commendable to see such a significant budget allocation today towards education, employment, and skilling in the Union Budget 2024 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

There has been an impressive Rs. 1.48 lakh crore earmarked specifically for education as compared to the previous year's allocation for the education sector in 2023 which stood at ?1,12,898.97 crore The budget places a pronounced emphasis on fostering education, employment, and skilling across the nation. For the last nine years we haven’t seen large impact on youth through the skill India movement, now we have to see how it brings a change with these policies Commencing her address, Minister Sitharaman introduced a Prime Ministerial Package worth Rs. 2 lakh crore, encompassing five transformative programs designed to invigorate employment and skilling sectors.

The emphasis placed on these crucial sectors is vital for the overall development and growth of the nation. Of this, employment, and skill development, surpassing the previous year’s allocation. However, it does raise the question as to why such a substantial allocation did not happen in previous budgets, considering that it is the same Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has been leading the country. One possible explanation could be that the government is now prioritizing these areas more than before, recognizing the importance of investing in education and skilling to boost employment opportunities and overall economic growth.

A notable highlight is the initiative offering internships at 500 top companies to 1 crore students over the next five years, each receiving a stipend of Rs. 5,000 and a one-time assistance payment of Rs. 6,000. Furthermore, the introduction of model skill loans up to Rs. 7 lakh aims to benefit 25,000 students annually, significantly boosting their career prospects and employability. In my opinion the introduction of initiatives such as the Prime Ministerial Package and internships at top companies for students, along with model skill loans, are steps in the right direction towards empowering the youth and preparing them for a competitive job market. It is crucial for the government to sustain and expand upon these efforts in the future budgets to ensure long-term benefits for the country workforce and economy.

Coca-Cola India Wins Award For Circular Economy Initiatives At Indian Circular Economy Forum 2024

~Recognition highlights Coca-Cola India’s successful launch of Recycled PET bottles in India

~Coca-Cola India pioneered Recycled PET (rPET) bottles in the Indian beverage industry, starting with Kinley's 1-litre and followed by rPET Coca-Cola in 250ml and 750ml variants.

Coca-Cola India has been honored with an award for its circular economy initiatives at the Indian Circular Economy Forum 2024, a testament to its innovative approach in sustainable packaging, held on 12th July. The award acknowledges Coca-Cola India’s eco-friendly packaging innovations, notably its launch of 100% recycled PET bottles—a first in India’s beverage sector. This initiative is a cornerstone of Coca-Cola India’s World Without Waste campaign, aiming to foster a circular economy for plastic packaging.

The forum, which took place at the Indian Habitat Centre, Delhi witnessed notable speakers such as Smt. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal; Smt. Roopa Mishra, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA); Sh. Dinesh Jagdale, Joint Secretary at Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE); and Mr. Michael Bucki, Counsellor & Head of Section - Sustainable Modernization, Delegation of the European Union.  

Speaking about the achievement, Neeraj Porwal, Senior Director Technical & Supply Chain Sustainability – India & South West Asia, The Coca-Cola Company, said “We are honored to receive this award. Our commitment to driving a circular economy for our packaging is central to reducing waste and carbon emissions. We are focused on increasing the recycled content in our packaging, expanding the use of refillable bottles, and enhancing our recycling efforts through the World Without Waste initiative. This recognition strengthens our resolve to build a more sustainable future for the beverage industry.”

Coca-Cola India is the first company in India to launch 1 litre Kinley bottles made from 100% recycled PET (rPET), followed by rPET Coca-Cola bottles in 250 ml and 750 ml, further underscoring its focus on reducing carbon footprint and promoting environmental responsibility.

About Coca-Cola India:

Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’, offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Charged by Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and juice beverages. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca Sportz, Smartwater, Kinley, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water and Kinley Club Soda. Premium products constitute Schweppes range and Smartwater. In addition, it offers Costa Coffee and organic green tea based beverage- Honest Tea amongst its range of coffee and Tea. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.

The Company along with its owned bottling operations and franchise bottling partners has a strong network of close to 4 million retail outlets through which it refreshes millions of consumers across the country. It seeks to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable agriculture initiatives and carbon emission reductions across its value chain.

Globally together with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 700,000 people, helping to bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.cocacolacompany.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Sunfeast Yippee Is Back! With Rahul Dravid, Jasprit Bumrah & Surya Kumar Yadav Unveil YiPPee!’s Latest Campaign 'YiPPee! Toss'

With cricket fervor in the air, the internet was abuzz with curiosity to know about the cryptic posts shared by Jasprit Bumrah & Surya Kumar Yadav on their Instagram handles about ‘The Toss’. Interest piqued as the players’ respective wives also posted about it soon after.

Multitude of accounts took to social media and shared their desire to know “What is the Toss all about?”. With widespread speculations by people, the conversation grabbed eyeballs garnering millions of views across social media making it viral.

While the internet kept wondering about what the cricketers were ‘tossing’ about, the brand Sunfeast YiPPee! took to Instagram and did the grand reveal of its latest campaign ‘YiPPee Toss’, thus, putting all speculations to rest.

Sunfeast YiPPee!, a leading instant Noodle & Pasta brand from ITC Ltd is back with a brand-new campaign featuring the country’s most-loved cricketers – Rahul Dravid, Jasprit Bumrah and Surya Kumar Yadav.  This fun-filled campaign leverages the popularity of top cricketers in a playful fashion highlighting the unique qualities of YiPPee! Noodles which are: Long & Non-Sticky.

The recently launched TVCs showcase Dravid, Bumrah and ‘SKY’ in lighthearted scenarios where they use the ‘YiPPee Toss’ to settle day to day friendly banters in a playful manner using YiPPee! Noodles. It’s an innovative play on the brand’s core USPs of Long & Non-Sticky Noodles. The campaign positions YiPPee! as ‘India’s Choice’.

Speaking about the campaign, Kavita Chaturvedi, Chief Operating Officer, Snacks, Noodles & Pasta, Food Business, ITC Ltd., said, “Cricket is an emotion in India and what better way to connect with our consumers than by bringing together the sport and the deliciousness of YiPPee! Noodles. This campaign celebrates the playful energy of our brand and the joy of relishing a bowl of YiPPee! with friends and family.”

Popular Cricketer Jasprit Bumrah remarked “It’s a very playful campaign and we had a lot of fun. If there is one way to settle a banter, it is through YiPPee!”

Much loved Batsman Surya Kumar Yadav said “I am thrilled to be part of this campaign as it perfectly mirrors our camaraderie both on and off the field. With YiPPee! settling our playful banter just got a whole lot easier”

Legendary Rahul Dravid said “I had a wonderful time while working with Bumrah and SKY on this campaign. We've created something enjoyable, and I hope everyone likes it.”

The YiPPee! Toss, campaign will be rolled out in multiple media platforms across the country. The brand is confident that the campaign will resonate with its vibrant target audience and inspire them to do the YiPPee! Toss to settle playful disputes amongst friends, just like our favorite cricket stars!

Grand Launch Of Exclusive Kancheepuram Silk Saree Exhibition By Varahi Lakshmi silks

* Exhibition starts from 26th July 2024 till 28th July 2024.

Varahi Lakshmi Silks Presents the one & only Pure Kanchipuram Sarees on different verities on Various New Collections, starting 26th July 2024 till 28th July 2024.

Varahi Lakshmi silks will launch their first exclusive exhibition at Bangalore with pure silk wedding sarees at Kanchipuram’  and offer genuine quality Kanchipuram sarees, Aranisarees, Dharmavaram sarees, Uppada sarees and handloom sarees.

Varahi Lakshmi silks owns more than 1000 handloom weaving machines, their exclusive collection is available at wholesale pricing, eliminating the middleman and passing on the price benefits to the consumers as they serve them directly.

The exhibition will be an abode for the rare and eternal pure Kancheepuram Sarees, Aarani Sarees, Banaraas Sarees, Dharmavaram Sarees, Uppada Sarees, Handloom Sarees, Real Jari Kota Sarees and Designer Sarees. Each saree purchased will receive the Silk mark and purity certificate to endorse that it is genuine. Sarees are available right from Rs.500 to Rs. 2 lakh.

Day & Date: Friday, 26th July 2024

Time: 10am till 8:00pm

Venue: Jagadish Hotels

(Basement of Italian Bake House)

New No: 51, Old No.664, 11th Main Road, 4th Block, Jayanagar,

Bengaluru – 5600011

ENTRY FREE ALL ARE WELCOME !!!

Union Budget 2024: India’s Financial Blueprint To Foster Comprehensive Focus On Growth

Indian democracy witnessed a watershed moment at the Union Budget 2024-25, as policymakers focused on nine key areas to deliver a comprehensive growth roadmap through strategic allocations. Employment & upskilling, Infrastructure, Innovation & Research and development, and taxation reforms among others dominated GOI’s financial blueprint for the rest of the fiscal year. This marked a critical point for India’s holistic growth across sectors, as numerous corporates celebrated the focused push in different directions.

The GOI maintained its support to businesses operating in the startup, infrastructure development and EdTech sectors. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman called for abolishing the Angel Tax, a milestone for the private entities. Apart from streamlining taxation, announcements regarding new infrastructure projects and upskilling youth set the tone for the budget. 

A provision of INR 1.48 lakh crore was allocated for education, employment and upskilling, coupled with the announcement of loans up to INR 10 lakh for higher education. The centre also announced up to 5 schemes to strategically push the employment rate with an INR 2 lakh crore package, consisting of initiatives that facilitate employment and upskilling of over 4.1 crore youth in the next 5 years. Additionally, the Indian manufacturing industry received a much-needed boost through the incentivization of job creation in the industry. Also, the announcement of key road connectivity projects, along with bridges and airports offered a bright future outlook for the construction sector. Furthermore, the abolition of the Angel Tax and streamlining corporate taxation for foreign companies to increase FDI inflow and growing emphasis on digitization highlights India’s strategic blueprint for the rest of the FY.

Organisations operating in these sectors — Euro Panel Products Limited, GUVI, QuackQuack and Xyst Care hailed the forward-thinking growth roadmap in the budget, as these entities became direct beneficiaries of the government’s commitment to supplement national growth. 

Focus on upskilling in a comprehensive budget

* Mr. Arun Prakash, CEO and Founder of GUVI, lauded the centre’s focus on employment and upskilling, along with abolishing Angel Tax in the Union Budget, saying, “The financial blueprint laid out in the Union Budget puts a special emphasis on upskilling programmes targeting Indian youth. Furthermore, the package of five schemes designed to facilitate employment and upskilling with a strategic allocation of INR 2 lakh crore will have long-term favourable impact on the future of countless Indian students and professionals alike. While budgetary initiatives are focusing on upskilling 20 lakh youth directly in the next 5 years in trending and relevant, industry-appropriate courses, the long-term implications of this will be immense. Also, the abolition of Angel Tax will help the overall EdTech sector significantly through a unique opportunity to ensure scalability and growth, and attract investments simultaneously.”

Growth-oriented Infrastructure development push 

* Mr. Divyam Shah, Director of Euro Panel Products Limited, feels the government’s continued push on developing and revitalising infrastructure projects will assist the overall construction sector to ensure growth, “The centre’s renewed interest in maintaining its focus on infrastructure development in the Union Budget is a gratifying sight. The construction of several key road connectivity projects, including highways and others, along with a new airport in Bihar and across India aligns with Eurobond’s long-term objectives. Furthermore, the incentivization of job creation in the manufacturing sector will help the sector to generate more jobs for skilled professionals, helping to streamline and increase the efficiency of the manufacturing process, leading to future growth.”

Streamlining taxation significant boost for startups

* Mr. Ravi Mittal, Founder & CEO of QuackQuack, feels abolishing Angel Tax will have favourable long-term implications for the Indian startup ecosystem, “This 2024-25 Union Budget is highly influential to ensure long-term success in the startup ecosystem. By doing away with the Angel Tax, startups have been enabled to encourage a renewed business approach and enhance valuation. This will enable startups to undertake expansion initiatives without concerns about taxation, while also attracting increased funding from angel investors. Furthermore, the centre’s emphasis on upskilling will provide a viable pipeline of trained professionals for startups, ensuring long-term growth and scalability. “

* Ms Gunjan Agarwal, Co-founder of XYST Care, states , “Abolishing Angel Tax will have a long-term impact on startup founders. This will not only motivate angel investors, but help to encourage entrepreneurial spirit in the Indian business domain. Additionally, the job generation push, coupled with the government’s financial assistance will help startups to acquire more talented professionals, leading to cumulative growth in the long-term. This Union Budget is full of opportunities for Indian startups pushing to become the next Unicorn, and governmental assistance is bolstering it to ensure success and growth.

The latest budget stresses ‘Viksit Bharat’ yet again, promoting a strategic push in key sectors to usher in economic growth and viability to supplement India’s bid to become a developed nation by 2047. Optimization of resources to address key concerns in upskilling, employment, agriculture and technology holds the potential to lead to a promising future and assist the nation to become a $5 trillion by 2027, as projected by the Ministry of Finance. The comprehensive union budget also seeks to provide uniformity in growth across sectors, helping to facilitate a new chapter in India’s progressive trajectory.

* Mr. Madhavan Menon, Executive Chairman, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (Thomas Cook, SOTC, Sterling Holidays and TCI) says that this year’s Union Budget has opened new doors to development, specifically for domestic and inbound tourism. With the focus on special development funds/ programs for the socio-cultural-religious potential of iconic temple corridors including Gaya’s Vishnupad & Mahabodhi temples into world-class pilgrim and tourist destinations (to be modelled on the success of the Kashi Vishwanath temple corridor), the Government of India’s intent is encouraging. Additionally, the comprehensive development of the Rajgir Jain Temple site; rejuvenation of the historical gem of Nalanda & Nalanda University into a major religious-tourist centre, would have a multi-pronged impact. While positioning India as a vibrant global tourism destination, it will also accelerate job creation and economic opportunities for allied sectors.

The Budget also appreciated the underleveraged potential of Odisha's tourism industry by supporting the state’s rich heritage-history, spirituality, craftsmanship and natural beauty.

Recognizing the high potential domestic cruise segment, the Union Budget announcement proposed a simpler tax regime to support/incentivize foreign cruise companies operating in India’s waters.

We’re optimistic about the significant allocation of INR 11.11 lakh crore (constituting 3.4% of India's GDP) towards infrastructure development. The development of road, rail, air, and waterways will ensure a boost to access/connectivity and affordability, and force multiplier benefits for tourism and allied sectors.

When introduced, TCS was considered disadvantageous to salaried employees as their cash flows were negatively impacted. Post the Budget announcement, salaried employees can now avail of immediate credit of TCS paid on account of their foreign travel - against TDS on salary, enhancing the purchasing power of Indian consumers.

The discontinued SEIS scheme should have been reinstated, as this is meaningful towards encouraging inbound tourism, foreign exchange receipts and a force multiplier for employment generation.

We are disappointed to note that key pillars in India’s Tourism agenda - Aviation & Hospitality were not mentioned as part of the Budget and both standardisation of GST rates on hotel tariffs to 12% and the reduction of ATF remained unaddressed.

* Sanjeev Dasgupta, CEO, CapitaLand Investment India says that the government’s commitment to establish 'plug and play' industrial parks and 'Cities as Growth Hubs' will unlock significant investment opportunities and drive demand for modern commercial spaces in the country. With added benefits, this move will also incentivize global firms to strengthen their manufacturing hubs in India.

Additionally, the proposed ‘Transit Oriented Development’ will be a promising step towards decongesting cities, and creating a vibrant landscape for investment. Faster implementation, with a focus on regions such as Bangalore, Mumbai and NCR will be imperative to sustain and accelerate the pace of industrial development and new workforce integration."

* Vidita Kochar, Co founder at Jewelbox; The recent reduction of customs duty on gold to 6% marks a significant advancement for the jewellery industry, enhancing its competitiveness and making it more accessible to consumers. This move aligns seamlessly with our commitment to providing high-quality, affordable lab diamond jewellery to our customers.

Additionally, the abolition of the angel tax is a laudable initiative that will invigorate India’s startup ecosystem. This change is poised to spur innovation, attract global investors, and provide a substantial boost to startups.

We are confident that these measures will significantly contribute to the growth and dynamism of both the jewellery sector and the broader startup community in India.

* On start-ups, MSMEs, and the manufacturing sector from Mr. Rahul Garg, CEO & Founder of Moglix says, "The removal of angel tax is a welcome move for India's startup ecosystem. This, coupled with the establishment of a Rs 1,000 crore VC fund for the space economy, will foster innovation. The budget’s focus on manufacturing, with the introduction of plug-and-play industrial parks, is progressive. MSMEs will benefit significantly from the credit guarantee scheme, new assessment models by PSU banks, and increased Mudra loan limits. The substantial allocation of Rs 11 lakh crore for infrastructure especially nature resilient is crucial for building a Viksit Bharat. The strategic shift towards nuclear energy as a major power source is visionary. Finally, the emphasis on cultural heritage through the development of the Vishnupad, Mahabodhi temple corridors, Rajgir, and Nalanda is a welcome addition. 

* Deepak Chand Thakur, Co-founder and CEO of NPST Ltd says, "We welcome the Union Budget. Although it does not contain direct policy mandates for the Fintech segment, there are several positives that we would like to highlight:"

Income Tax Relief and Increased Discretionary Income: The relief in income tax is expected to boost consumer spending, which in turn will drive more digital transactions.

5G Market Growth and Smartphone Penetration: In a rapidly growing 5G market, improved smartphone penetration is essential for broadening payments. The Budget's focus on reducing the cost of imported components and finished products, potentially leading to lower retail prices for mobile phones and accessories, will benefit the fintech sector by expanding the base of smartphone users and enhancing access to digital payment platforms.

Reduction in E-commerce TDS: The reduction in e-commerce TDS from 1% to 0.1% will encourage more merchants to embrace digital payments. This policy change will lower the compliance burden on merchants, making it easier for them to participate in the digital economy, thus driving further adoption of digital payment systems.

E-commerce Hubs and Public-Private Partnerships: The establishment of dedicated e-commerce hubs through public-private partnerships presents an exciting opportunity for innovation in cross-border B2B trade payments, potentially using UPI rails.

Expansion of IPPB Branches in the Northeast: The opening of 100 IPPB branches in the Northeast also opens opportunities for other payment companies and fintechs to expand their services to new regions, tapping into a market with significant growth potential.

Air India Express Inaugurates Its Maiden International Flight From Bengaluru To Abu Dhabi

* Bengaluru is the airline's largest base with over 200 weekly flights connecting the city to 27 destinations.

Bengaluru: Air India Express continues its network expansion, connecting Bengaluru to Abu Dhabi with its first direct international service from India's IT capital. With over 200 weekly flights, Bengaluru is the largest station for Air India Express.  

Air India Express connects Bengaluru to 27 destinations, including Abu Dhabi, Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Guwahati, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Kannur, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Ranchi, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Varanasi, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam with direct flights. With the launch of the Bengaluru-Abu Dhabi flight, guests from cities such as Ayodhya, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Goa, Guwahati, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Pune, Ranchi, Varanasi, and Visakhapatnam now have the option to connect conveniently to Abu Dhabi through one-stop itineraries via Bengaluru.

Air India Express operates direct flights connecting Abu Dhabi to Bengaluru, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mangaluru, Mumbai, Thiruvananthapuram, and Tiruchirappalli and connects 17 Indian cities to Abu Dhabi via convenient one-stop itineraries.

National Scientists Highlight The Critical Need For Transparency And Accuracy In Artificial Intelligence (AI) At The 1st NSRTC 2024

MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) announces the successful conclusion of the 1st National Scientists Round Table Conference (NSRTC 2024). The conference, themed “Science and Technology for Viksit Bharat 2047,” brought together esteemed dignitaries, scholars, and visionaries to discuss pivotal themes shaping India’s scientific future.

The three-day conference brought together top academicians, scientists, researchers, and scholars. The focus was on exchanging insights and research across Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Engineering & Technology. NSRTC 2024 highlighted key topics such as Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technology, Science & Spirituality, Sustainability, Healthcare and World Peace. The event aimed to spark innovative ideas, especially among young researchers, and promote interdisciplinary and global collaborations for new discoveries and sustainable development.

Dr. Sujata Chaklanobis, Former Advisor/Scientist G, DSIR, New Delhi, was the Chief Guest at the Valedictory function of NSRTC-24. Distinguished attendees included Hon’ble Padma Vibhushan Dr. R. A. Mashelkar, Mr. Ganpati Yadav, Former Vice-Chancellor of the Institute of Chemical Technology; Padma Bhushan Dr. Vijay Bhatkar, Founder Director of C-DAC, Pune; UNESCO Chair Holder Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, Founder President of MIT-WPU; Shri. Rahul V. Karad, Executive President of  MIT-WPU, Dr. Sunil S Bhagwat, Director, Indian Insititute of Science Education and Research, Pune and NSRTC National Convener Prof. Dr. Milind Pande and Prof. Dr. Bharat B. Kale.

Dr. Sasikumar M. Executive Director, C-DAC, Mumbai said "The successful conclusion of the 1st National Scientists Round Table Conference (NSRTC 2024) represents a significant milestone for science and technology in India. Our discussions on Artificial Intelligence revealed both its vast potential and the challenges it presents. While AI holds great promise, it must be approached with caution, ensuring accuracy and transparency to avoid biases. This conference has fostered valuable interdisciplinary collaboration and set a new benchmark for advancing our vision of a sustainable, equitable future. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved and excited about the path ahead."

Dr. Sujata Chaklanobis, Former Advisor/Scientist G, DSIR, New Delhi, and Chief Guest at the Valedictory function of NSRTC-24, emphasized the vision of Vikasit Bharat @2047. She highlighted that this dream can be achieved through science and technology interventions, urging scientists and young scholars to engage in cutting-edge research to address the nation's challenges. She congratulated MIT-WPU for organizing the NSRTC 2024, where the nation's brightest minds deliberated on crucial topics.

UNESCO Chair Holder Revered Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, Founder President of MIT-WPU said, “Over the past three days, we have witnessed remarkable exchanges of ideas and groundbreaking discussions on the future of science and technology. The convergence of eminent scientists, researchers, and visionaries at MIT-WPU underscores our collective commitment to fostering innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. As we strive to build a sustainable and equitable future, NSRTC 2024 has truly exemplified the spirit of scientific exploration and the pursuit of excellence, setting a precedent for future endeavours in advancing frontier technologies for the betterment of society.”

Shri. Rahul V. Karad - Executive President, MIT-WPU “At MIT-WPU, we believe in the transformative power of education and research, and this conference exemplifies our dedication to addressing critical issues such as healthcare, climate change, and digital transformation. We are honored to have hosted such a distinguished panel of experts and are excited about the breakthroughs and new ideas that have emerged from this event. The successful conclusion of the 1st NSRTC at MIT-WPU is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering scientific excellence and innovation. This event has inspired collaboration and dialogue among leading scientists and researchers, propelling us towards our vision for Viksit Bharat 2047. "

The conference was organized around eight key themes: Artificial Intelligence, addressing ethical frameworks, regulations, AI for social good and healthcare, and future job impacts; Biotechnology, focusing on synthetic biology, bioinformatics, biomedical devices, biopharmaceuticals, and bio-manufacturing; Digital Transformations, covering grid technology, quantum computing, blockchain, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion; Advanced Materials and Processing, including nanomaterials, organic electronics, biomimetic designs, sustainable materials, and 3D printing; Healthcare, exploring tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, wearable devices, and affordable high-tech healthcare; Science, Scientific Temper & Spirituality, examining the role of scientific temper, brain-mind-consciousness relationship, and spiritual practices; Agri-Tech, focusing on precision agriculture, genetic engineering, climate-smart agriculture, urban farming, and agritech startups; and Climate Change, addressing climate modeling, the circular economy, sustainable mobility, green buildings, and managing transitions.

NSRTC 2024 witnessed the presence of prominent 130 scientists from across the country and notable figures, including Dr. Ashok Joshi, Padmashri Dr. Thallapai Pradip, Prof. Dr. M.S. Ramachandra Rao, Dr. Richard Lobo, Prof. Dr. Ajit Kulkarni, Dr. Umesh Waghmore, Dr. Dipankar Das Sharma, Dr. Dinesh Aswal, Dr. Tata A. Rao, Dr. Bhushan Patwardhan, Prof. Anil Sahasrabuddhe, Dr. Niraj Khare, Dr. K. Sami Reddy, Dr. Atul Verma, Dr. Ashok Khandkar from the USA, Dr. Sumitra, ISRO scientist Dr. Ilangovan, Prof. Krupanidhi of IAS Bangalore, Prof. Anik Kumar, ICER Director Ashok Ganguly, Dr. Rajat Mona, Prof. Das Gupta, Dr. Nag Hanumaiah, Sameer Director Hanmantrao, Sydney University Prof. Dr. Kautubh Dalal and Purdue University Prof. Sachin Pol.