BVR Subrahmanyam: “Rise Of India Is The Most Benign Rises In The World”

* “India is at its inflection point to become a Global Powerhouse”

At the Public Affairs Forum of India’s (PAFI) 11th Annual Forum, Shri BVR Subrahmanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog, Government of India said, “Our economy should easily double by 2023”.

Shri Subrahmanyam emphasized that by 2047, India will be among the world's youngest nations demographically, poised for prosperity, with a projected per capita income of around $18,000 to $20,000. This growth is significant as India is expected to emerge as a major global player, building on the substantial progress made over the past decade in addressing challenges such as natural disasters and poverty. By mid-2025, many basic issues are anticipated to be resolved, setting the stage for robust economic advancement.

Shri Subrahmanyam said India stands at a pivotal moment in its journey toward becoming a global powerhouse, with projections indicating an economy of $38 trillion and a youthful population that strengthens its global position. As a ‘Vishwamitra’ and ‘Vishwabandhu’, India’s rise benefits the world, particularly through its climate and green technologies leadership. India’s ambition to become the third-largest economy by 2026-2027 necessitates a cohesive grand strategy, prioritizing the resolution of the middle-income trap as a critical challenge to our long-term aspirations.

Shri Subrahmanyam added that urban development and infrastructure are crucial, with cities designed as economic hubs to drive growth. The private sector must lead in innovation and investment, supported by an enabling environment that attracts both portfolio and direct investments. Additionally, reforming supply chains is essential for navigating globalization, while India’s emphasis on Atmanirbharta fosters trade on our own terms. By establishing itself as a solutions hub for engineering and promoting "Make in India" as a hallmark of quality, India can create a strong base for global markets. Ultimately, reforms at the state level and a commitment to cooperative federalism will ensure inclusive growth, positioning India to emerge as a global giant and lead into a prosperous future.

The welcome note was given by Deepshikha Dharmaraj, President, PAFI, Chief Executive Officer, Burson Group; the event was moderated by Harish Krishnan, Past President & Co-Founder, PAFI, Managing Director and Chief Policy Officer, Cisco India and SAARC, and the vote of thanks was given by T. S. Vishwanath, Director General, Past President & Founding Member, PAFI Co-Founder & Partner, VeKommunicate.

PAFI (Public Affairs Forum of India)

Founded in 2008, the Public Affairs Forum of India (PAFI) is India’s premier organization focused on public affairs, policy advocacy, and corporate affairs in India. PAFI represents a diverse array of Indian and foreign companies, promoting ethical dialogue and professional growth. Its objectives include aligning business, society, and government, fostering trust, and developing collaborative policies. PAFI organizes impactful events, including its annual forum, which unites industry leaders and policymakers for meaningful discussions. With a strong commitment to transparency and inclusion, PAFI aims to build a well-informed public affairs community to address contemporary challenges in India.

For more details:

Visit: www.pafi.in and Twitter: @PAFI_India

Euro Panel Products Ltd Integrates India’s Most Advanced Coil Coating Line In INR 30 Crore investment To Boost Make-In-India Initiative

* The coating line has a production capacity of 750 tons per month

* The INR 30 Crore investment will generate 50 immediate jobs and 25 more in the next 6 months

* This cutting-edge technology has reduced delivery time from 2 months to 1-2 weeks

Euro Panel Products Ltd, which owns EUROBOND - one of the leading Aluminium Composite Panel Brands in India, today integrated India’s most advanced coating line in an INR 30 Crore investment. The development aims to strengthen the Make-in-India initiative, with a significant capacity of 750 tons monthly. This cutting-edge coating line is also the country’s longest line and features a three-coat two-bake continuous processing with an accumulator, helping Euro Panel Products Ltd to mitigate dependency on Chinese materials and manufacture 100% Make-in-India products. 

The INR 30 Crore investment by Euro Panel Products Ltd includes costs associated with machinery and land; It will also generate 50 immediate jobs, with another 25 in the next 6 months, contributing to local employment and economic growth. This development is aimed at enhancing the supportive ecosystem behind ACP manufacturing and will have a positive impact on the balance sheets for the upcoming fiscal years. This strategic initiative will help EUROBOND to decouple from Chinese supply chain dependencies, where coated coils were imported from China. Going forward, the company will source coils from prominent Indian manufacturers to finish the coating in-house using Indian paint, reducing the time from 2 months to 1-2 weeks — a critical step in ensuring faster service and better quality for customers.

Mr. Rajesh Shah, Managing Director of Euro Panel Products Ltd. shared his insights on the development saying, “Our focus is to facilitate a customer-oriented approach through premium quality and customisable products that contribute to the national economy. We plan to drive this strategy by adopting a comprehensive transition away from Chinese materials and strengthening the Make-in-India initiative. The impact of this development is not only limited to raising efficiency and generating new employment opportunities but also significantly reducing delivery time by over 75%, while maintaining significantly lowered RM holding in our inventories. Integrating this next-gen technology will enable our customers to choose from an infinite range of customization aspects, directly contributing to growth and scalability in future.” 

Integrating the coating-line technology will also lead to Euro Panel Products Ltd undertaking in-house R&D efforts that will focus on designs and texture. This will enable the company to offer exclusive and customised designs equipped with specialised coatings and extended warranties on special requirements to its extensive clientele. The firm will focus on sourcing only base coils, to be coated based on requirements and demand. This will enable them to reduce RM inventory, as the requirement of holding coated coils of different colours and grades in stock will be diminished. 

This strategic development is far from limited to enhancing employment and efficiency but reducing man-hours, optimising resource utilisation and flexibility in customisation. Furthermore, it will help the company to open up a brand new business avenue of providing coated coils, passively contributing to increased turnover.

About Eurobond:

Eurobond is one of the leading Metal Composite Panel Brands in India, is the flagship brand of Euro Panel Products Limited. Established in 2002, EUROBOND was one of the first Indian brands to introduce ACP to India and over time has established itself as a leader in the Metal Composite Panel industry known for its Quality, Authenticity, and Service. In the past decade, the brand has achieved immense, credible success due to its high-quality long-lasting panels, PAN India Distribution Network, and satisfied customers across India and the world. 

With a global presence in over 14 countries including the USA, Uganda, Nigeria, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Nepal, Egypt, Brazil and Oman, the brand is gradually expanding its global footprint. In 2021, Euro Panel Products Limited became the First Indian ACP Company to get listed on the NSE Emerge as it launched its IPO. In 2022, Euro Panel Products Ltd was also recognized as the Most Trusted ACP Brand and as the Quality Excellence Leader by the ET Ascent Star of the Industry Awards.

Meghalaya Launches Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign, Pledges To Be One Of The Cleanest States Of India

To strengthen voluntarism and collective action for Swachh Bharat and to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission, the Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin (SBM-G), Public Health Engineering Department (PHE) & Swachh Bharat Mission Urban (SBM-U), Urban Affairs Department launched the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ (SHS) 2024 at Shillong. The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ fortnight will be observed from September 17th to October 2nd with the theme of Swabhav Swachhata - Sanskaar Swachhata.

Shri Sniawbhalang Dhar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Meghalaya & Minister In-charge, Urban Affairs Department stressed on the importance of a clean environment and the responsibility of each citizen to play their part in ensuring a clean environment. He highlighted that the Swachh Bharat Mission, launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, is a crucial programme that requires public participation to succeed.

During the programme, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister mentioned that the Urban Department has allocated significant funds for infrastructure development, including Rs 5.8 crore for footpath renovation in Iew Duh and a proposed Rs 15 crore for upgrading the traditional market. The revamped market will feature separate sections for vegetables, wet markets, and clothing. Moreover, Dhar also shared his vision to make Meghalaya one of India’s top tourism destinations within five years, emphasising the importance of cleanliness in achieving this goal. This aligns with the Swachh Bharat Mission’s objectives, which include improving health, safety, dignity, and economic benefits for citizens.

Smti. R. M Kurbah, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, highlighted that as citizens it is our responsibility to take the pledge to ensure that cleanliness is maintained, while also introspecting on what can be done for the country. She talked about the working conditions of sanitation workers and dignity of labour, raising awareness that they should be respected for the work done. Smti Kurbah mentioned that 70 e-vehicles have been earmarked by the government out of which 67 has been received and are functional, that will be carrying wastes from households.

To mark the launch of the Swachhta Hi Seva (SHS) 2024, the Swachhata pledge was also administered today.

The objective of SHS 2024 is to facilitate large-scale advocacy and citizen participation for swachhata, mega cleanliness drives & clearing of dirty and difficult garbage spots (black spots), recognise the contribution of sanitation workers, celebrate the achievements over the past decade, and reaffirm our commitment to the future of sanitation and sustainable waste management in India.

Shri J. P. Lakiang, MCS, Joint Secretary and Mission Director, Swacch Bharat Mission Grameen remarked that the presence of everyone in the programme reflects the collective commitment to fostering a culture of cleanliness and hygiene which forms the bedrock of a healthy and progressive society. “The Swachh Bharat Mission has always been not only a sanitation initiative but a movement in transforming our lifestyles and instilling values that elevate communities,” he said.

As part of SHS 2024, three pillars of activities are being carried out-Cleanliness Target Units (CTUs) - Shramdaan activities aimed at the time-bound transformation of target units and general cleanliness. Swachhata Mein Jan Bhagidari - Promoting public participation, awareness, and advocacy. Safai Mitra Suraksha Shivirs - Conducting preventive health checkups and providing social security coverage for sanitation workers.

Dignitaries present at the programme were Shri Sniawbhalang Dhar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Meghalaya in-charge, Urban Affairs Department; Smti. R. M Kurbah, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills; Shri P. K. Boro, MCS Joint Secretary, Government of Meghalaya & CEO, Shillong Municipal Board; Shri J. P. Lakiang, MCS, Joint Secretary,  Government of Meghalaya, PHE & Mission Director, Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen,  Meghalaya, Shri K Kharumnuid, Mission Director of Swachh Bharat Mission Urban (SBM-U), Meghalaya, Urban Affairs Department and other officials and dignitaries of allied departments. Also, Present at the programme were students and teachers from different schools and colleges, NCC cadets, village headmen and SHG members were also present.

Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital Opens It's First Eye Clinic In Bengaluru At Kengeri

* Announces Free Eye Check-ups for the Public Until 31st October 2024

Dr. Agarwal's Group of Eye Hospitals, one of India’s providers of comprehensive eye care services, today announced the opening of its first primary eye care center, Dr. Agarwal's Eye Clinic, in Bengaluru at Kengeri. This new facility aims to bring specialized eye care closer to the local community, providing enhanced access to affordable and comprehensive eye health services.

The clinic was inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri S T Somashekar, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, along with esteemed Guests of Honour, Shri S Girish, Deputy Commissioner of Police, West Bengaluru; Shri Rtn. H Seetharama Sharma, Vocational Service Director & CSR, Chairman Maverick Rotary Kengeri Upanagra; Shri Rtn. Vasu Prasad, President Maverick Rotary Kengeri Upanagra; Smt. Rtn. Sneha Suresh, Community Service Director Maverick Rotary Kengeri Upanagra; Dr. Sreepathi DK, Regional Head-Clinical Services, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospitals; and Mr. Dheeraj ET, AVP - Operations & Business of Dr. Agarwal's Group of Eye Hospitals.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Guest Shri S T Somashekar expressed, “I am honored to inaugurate this new clinic. Facilities like this greatly enhance Bengaluru’s healthcare landscape, helping people take proactive steps in maintaining their vision. Eye health is critical at every stage of life, and regular check-ups are essential to preserving good vision.”

Dr. Agarwal's Eye Clinic in Kengeri is equipped with advanced technology and offers comprehensive eye health services, including accurate eye pressure measurement, refraction testing, visual acuity checks, and early cataract detection. To celebrate the opening, the clinic is offering free eye check-ups for the public until 31st October 2024, with a special buy-one-get-one offer on select frames. Anyone can walk into the center for a free eye screening.

Dr. Sreepathi DK, Regional Head-Clinical Services, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospitals, commented, “The launch of Dr. Agarwal's Eye Clinic in Kengeri is a testament to our unwavering commitment to making holistic eye care accessible. Our aim is to provide top-tier services with the help of trained optometrists and expert doctors, ensuring that the eye care needs of the community are met with the highest standards.”

Mr. Dheeraj ET, AVP - Operations & Business of Dr. Agarwal's Group of Eye Hospitals, emphasized, “The opening of our first primary eye care center in Bengaluru is a significant achievement. It responds to the growing demand for affordable eye care in the city. We remain dedicated to expanding our services throughout Karnataka, ensuring that even tier 2 and tier 3 cities benefit from high-quality eye care services.”

Located at Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Clinic, Valagerahalli, Ganabharathi, Stage II, Kengeri, Bengaluru, Dr. Agarwal's Eye Clinic offers a wide range of services, including comprehensive eye check-ups, expert doctor consultations, cataract evaluations, and a variety of branded optical products and sunglasses.

About Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital

Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital a comprehensive eye hospital offering a one-stop solution for eye ailments; was started in the year 1957. Now the hospital is in its 65th year of offering quality services in eye care. It has 200 hospitals across India. With a visible footprint in the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, Odisha, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andaman, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Punjab, Jammu and Madhya Pradesh. A tertiary eye care centre at Mauritius marks its first step towards establishing an international presence extended up to 15 branches covering the Indian Ocean region & African countries. For more information, pls visit: http://www.dragarwal.com.

Photo Caption: Chief Guest Shri S T Somashekar, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly lighting the lamp along with ; Shri Rtn. H Seetharama Sharma, Vocational Service Director & CSR, Chairman Maverick Rotary Kengeri Upanagra, Mr. Dheeraj ET, AVP - Operations & Business of Dr. Agarwal's Group of Eye Hospitals Dr. Sreepathi DK, Regional Head-Clinical Services, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospitals; and Dr. Sreepathi DK, Regional Head-Clinical Services, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospitals and Shri Suresh, Ex Corporator, Kengeri Upanagara.

“An Invitation To Step Up And Get Involved”

* Winners of BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility 2024

* Four projects committed to serving the common good

Björn Sommer, Sibusiso Thusi, Karin Kollross and Graham Darab are the recipients of this year's BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility. Their commitment deserves recognition. The official award ceremony was held on 16 September in Munich. The four winners are actively involved with social causes in Germany, South Africa and Bolivia. With passion and dedication, they empower the families of children with cancer, support disadvantaged youth, provide aid to street children and help individuals struggling with addiction by offering them new opportunities. With this Award, every year, the BMW Group honours associates worldwide who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the common good. Each winner receives prize money of 10,000 euros for their project.

“The BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility is truly inspiring. It highlights the profound impact individual dedication can have and shows how commitment to others strengthens the entire community. Our associates are driving change by developing practical solutions to social problems. Their projects create a positive impact and serve as an invitation to everyone to step up and get involved,” says Ilka Horstmeier, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for People and Real Estate, who is also patron of the Award.

Appreciation for the whole team

The BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility has been highly regarded within the company for many years, achieving an impact that extends far beyond simply recognising the individuals involved. Around 100 associates worldwide submitted entries for the BMW Group Award this year. Behind each winning project is a whole team of dedicated helpers within the organisations themselves, who also receive recognition and appreciation through the Award. Volunteers find their involvement in social causes deeply enriching, motivated by the desire to give back to the community. One of the winners described the experience of being able to help as “grounding you and making you grateful”.

Here are the 2024 award-winners:

Sibusiso Thusi, who works in HR at Plant Rosslyn in South Africa, is the recipient of the Vera-und-Volker-Doppelfeld Award, which fosters commitment among young people. Sibusiso helps schoolchildren in South Africa discover their talents and realise their professional dreams. As a mentor with the “Young Aspiring Thinkers” initiative, he goes into public schools in economically disadvantaged areas to help children make up learning deficits, prepare them for internships and share insights into the world of work. He knows from experience that education is key to them taking control of their own lives.

Björn Sommer, a process and digitalisation expert based in Munich, possesses true pioneering spirit: He is developing a digital patient companion to support the families of children with cancer, aimed at improving their quality of life. His project garnered the interest of a team of colleagues: Together, under the umbrella of the association “Initiative for Children with Cancer Munich”, they developed a digital platform that consolidates all information relating to their illness.

Karin Kollross, who works in Technology Materials and Process Analytics in Munich, is deeply committed to helping street children in the Bolivian city of Cochabamba. She first experienced the plight of local children as a backpacker, later discovering the project “Emanuel Foundation – Children with a Future”. The initiative established a home for children whose mothers work in the neighbouring red-light district. Karin is working to ensure the continued existence of this safe haven.

Graham Darab, MINI brand manager for the company's branches in central Germany, helps people break the cycle of addiction. As a trained addiction counsellor, he leads a self-help group at the “Living without addiction”association, where he helps people overcome addiction by maintaining a stable lifestyle and avoiding relapse. He also serves as one of the BMW Group’s addiction officers, undertaking important prevention efforts.

SOCIAL DRIVE consolidates social commitment  

Assuming social responsibility is one of the BMW Group's core values, having encouraged social commitment among associates for many years. The SOCIAL DRIVE initiative consolidates volunteer activities at the company: Alongside the BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility, the SOCIAL DRIVE platform forms the heart of the initiative. This is where associates showcase their social causes, connect with one another and recruit new members. The platform provides an easy way for individuals or teams to learn about and get involved in various projects. 

Photo Caption: The winners of the BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility 2024: Björn Sommer, Graham Darab, Sibusiso Thusi, Karin Kollross (from left) with Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management BMW AG, People and Real Estate, Labour Relations Director, and Patron of the Award (middle) (09/2024).

Moxy Hotels Celebrates 10th Anniversary With Spirited Expansion In Asia-Pacific

The bold and playful brand known for its vibrant social spaces and spirited service, Moxy Hotels, a part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this September. Since its inception in 2014 with the first Moxy Hotel opening in Milan, Moxy has redefined the hotel experience by challenging the status quo and creating a lighthearted, social atmosphere for modern travelers. Over the past decade, Moxy has become synonymous with fun and innovation in the hospitality industry, consistently pushing the boundaries of traditional hotel stays. From checking in at the bar with a complimentary cocktail to enjoying interactive lobby spaces that transition seamlessly from morning to night, Moxy has always put the guest experience at the forefront. Functional and fun, the brand’s playful design, smart guest rooms, and buzzing social spaces have made it a favorite among travelers who crave a lively and immersive stay.

“As Moxy celebrates this significant milestone, the brand remains committed to its mission of providing a fun, dynamic, and stylish hotel experience tailored for the next-gen ‘always-on’ guests. Designed for those who are young at heart and on the hunt for new experiences, Moxy offers a playful and engaging environment at an approachable price point without sacrificing style. With plans for further expansion and exciting new initiatives on the horizon, Moxy is set to continue its journey as a disruptor in the select service space,” said John Toomey, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China.

The Moxy Experience:

Innovative Check-In Experience: At Moxy Hotels, the bar serves a dual purpose as the check-in area, and guests are welcomed with a complimentary cocktail, setting the tone for a fun and memorable stay.

Moxy Hookups: Moxy puts a fresh new twist on the expected hotel amenities with Moxy ‘Hookups’, creative, social perks gifted randomly to guests daily.

Moxy Pickups: In addition to the fresh items prepared by the Moxy Crew, the grab and go style pick-ups station offers guests additional options around the clock. A curated selection of items fill the intentionally styled retail space.

Social-Forward Spaces: Moxy’s lobbies are designed to be the social heart of the hotel, encouraging guests to mingle and connect. From live music, to pop-up shops, dance parties and bar takeovers, Moxy Hotels around the world have their own lobby activations to keep them buzzing.

Smart and Stylish Rooms: Moxy’s guest rooms are compact yet cleverly designed, offering everything travelers need for a comfortable stay. One of these is the Signature peg wall, a versatile wall feature to maximize space and functionality in all rooms, allowing guests to hang clothes and other items.

Unique Digital Guestbook: Moxy was one of the first brands to leverage user-generated content into a digital interactive platform at each property, creating a unique and engaging guest experience. With the user generated content, Moxy Hotels are able to provide recommendations for travelers by fellow travelers and locals alike.

Global Footprint: With over 135 properties in 29 countries, Moxy continues to expand its playful spirit across the globe.

Since the debut of Moxy Bandung in 2017, the first Moxy Hotel in Asia Pacific, Moxy has significantly expanded its presence in the region over the past twelve months. The brand has entered key markets including Australia, India, Thailand, and Malaysia, with five new hotels having been added to the portfolio through 2024. These new properties offer guests the chance to experience Moxy’s spirited service and vibrant atmosphere in some of the most exciting destinations. From lively lobbies to rooftop bars, these new hotels provide dynamic spaces where guests can socialize, work, and play. Each property incorporates unique design elements that reflect the local culture and community, ensuring a distinctive and authentic experience.

Moxy Sydney Airport: The award-winning Moxy Sydney Airport is a chic and modern hotel located in the Sydney Airport precinct where guests are greeted at Bar Moxy with a complimentary signature cocktail upon check-in. The hotel features smartly designed compact rooms with high-speed Wi-Fi, plush bedding, spacious walk-in showers, and Chromecast. Guests can also relax in the stylish lounge, complete with social spaces and games like ping-pong and skeeball.

Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud: Situated in Devanahalli Business Park, Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud offers vibrant social spaces and modern amenities. The hotel features naturally lit banquet spaces with views of the hotel grounds, a pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Guests can explore local attractions such as Nandi Hills, the ISKON Temple and St. Mary Basilica. The 128 rooms and suites are well equipped providing a playful and comfortable stay.

Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong: Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong, the first Moxy Hotel in Thailand, and the largest in Asia Pacific, is strategically located near Chit Lom BTS station. The hotel boasts 504 chic rooms, a top-notch gym, and lively events. Guests can enjoy stylish communal spaces, a bustling bar and restaurant, and a playful atmosphere perfect for both work and play. The central location provides easy access to shopping, dining, and iconic attractions.

Moxy Putrajaya: Located in IOI Resort City, Moxy Putrajaya offers a stylish work-stay experience. The hotel is surrounded by a shopping mall, sports center, and golf course, and is a short drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Guests can enjoy buzzing bars, communal spaces, and Insta-worthy moments. The Sky Bar on the 18th floor offers 180-degree views, while the Plug and Meet gathering spaces provide ergonomic chairs, large writing walls, and 55-inch TVs.

Moxy Solo: Experience the vibrant city vibes at Moxy Solo, Central Java’s newest hotspot. Located on Slamet Riyadi Street, steps away from Pura Mangkunegaran and Solo’s heritage and dining destinations, guests can enjoy the state-of-the-art gym, edgy bars, dynamic events, and rooftop views. With 108 stylish rooms and playful hangout spots, Moxy Solo is a perfect blend of work and play.

Moxy Mumbai Andheri West: The latest addition to the Moxy family, Moxy Mumbai Andheri West, brings the brand’s playful and vibrant atmosphere to one of India’s most dynamic cities. Guests can expect lively social spaces, modern amenities, and a welcoming environment designed for the young at heart.

For more information on Moxy Hotels and reservations visit www.moxyhotels.com.

MAHE Hosts 5th National Conference: With A Theme Around “Bridging Academic And Corporate Volunteering For Social Change"

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) concluded successfully the 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change conducted at the Dr. TMA Pai Auditorium today. The event brought together over 600 participants, from more than 20 non-MAHE institutions including dynamic young leaders, change-makers, and passionate social advocates from across the country.  The Conference was spearheaded by Chief guest of D Carthigueane, Regional Director Regional Directorate of NSS Bangalore, Mr Sankara Mahalingam, Global Head - CSR, Firstsourc, Mr Harish Deshishtha Kulkarni, Manager - CSR & Lead-Global, Employee Volunteer Program, Tata Communications,Capt. Shanthi S, Sr, Program Director, Infosys Foundation, Misha Bhatt, Senior Vice President, iVolunteer, Mr Satyam Gambhir, Cofounder Platform Commons, Mr Utkarsh Sinha, Managing Director, Bucolic Kailash, Mr Navaneeth Ganesh, Consultant, Ministry of Education, along with Dr H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, Manipal

Centered on the theme, "Bridging the Gap Between Academic & Corporate Volunteering to Synergize Social Change," the conference emphasized the seamless transition of students' volunteering efforts during their academic years into impactful corporate volunteering.

Chief guest D Carthigueane, Regional Director of Regional Directorate of NSS Bangalore, the 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change offered a vibrant platform for thought-provoking discussions, insightful presentations, and interactive sessions on youth engagement and social change. It provided participants with a valuable opportunity to share their experiences, ideas, and innovative solutions, focusing on how corporate volunteering can synergize social change.

Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor MAHE, Manipal, welcomed attendees and outlined the conference's theme, "Bridging the Gap Between Academic & Corporate Volunteering to Synergize Social Change." He emphasized the importance of transitioning students' volunteering experiences into corporate settings, enhancing both professional growth and community contributions. The conference aims to explore the pivotal role of volunteering in academic and corporate environments, fostering sustained community engagement and maximizing the benefits for individuals, institutions, and society.

Speaking on the occasion, D. Carthigueane, Regional Director of NSS Bangalore, expressed gratitude for being invited to the conference and commended the collective effort to involve youth in societal change. He highlighted the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports' launch of the Bharat portal, a platform providing diverse opportunities for young people in sectors like cyber security and healthcare, promoting experiential learning and voluntary service. He praised Manipal's commitment to hosting the event under the NSS banner, aligning with the goal of student development through community service. The Swachhata Sava, coinciding with the Prime Minister's birthday and ending on October 2nd, symbolizes youth empowerment and community involvement. He thanked MAHE for organizing the event, calling it a stepping stone toward a cleaner, empowered future.

Dr. H S Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, Manipal, presided over the event. Dr. Praveen Kumar, the organizing secretary of the conference, delivered a vote of thanks. The conference also witnessed the presence of key figures like Dr. Anup Naha, Convenor, Dr. Abhishek Chaturvedi, Co-Convenor, and student secretaries MS Manaswini u and Mr. Aniket Poojary.

The event brought together diverse gathering of young minds with wealth of perspectives and ideas to the table, enriching the discussions around the theme of bridging academic and corporate volunteering. The involvement of students from various institutions highlighted the conference's wide-reaching impact and underscored the collective commitment to fostering social change through collaborative efforts

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams; through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bangalore, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life, as well as for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.