98% Of Chili farmers Used Gracia Last Year – Godrej Agrovet

Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL) today said that 98% of Chili farmers used Gracia last year, an effective pest management solution for chili crops. Releasing the findings of the survey, which was carried in Chili markets across south, the company witnessed 57% of the farmers using Gracia between 15-35 DAT (Days After Transplanting).

“With Gracia offering a prolonged duration of control against thrips if chili crops are treated early, the findings clearly showcase that farmers are finding value in using Gracia early. Additionally, 71% of farmers we surveyed used the solution more than 2 times last year. This reiterates that Gracia is the most popular and go-to-brand for farmers,” said Rajavelu N.K, CEO, Crop Protection Business, Godrej Agrovet.

Gracia’s benefits extend beyond pest control. It enhances overall crop health, promoting better-established crops that lead to increased fruit production. The product’s quick knockdown of pests ensures pest-free chilis. Particularly notable is Gracia’s effectiveness in controlling thrips and lepidopteran pests, a major threat to chili crops. Early application prevents thrips build-up, providing long-lasting protection. Moreover, the use of Gracia results in healthier seedlings that require fewer resources, making crop management more efficient and economical for farmers.

Added Rajavelu, “Gracia’s translaminar action effectively controls both chewing and sucking pests, even those hiding under leaves. This comprehensive protection ensures that chili plants remain healthy throughout their critical development phases. Hence for optimal results, we recommend 2 applications of 160 ml of Gracia per acre – first within 15-25 DAT followed by a second application 10 days later.”

As the chili season approaches, Godrej Agrovet encourages farmers to “Start Healthy, Start with Gracia” for pest-free chilis, enhanced plant health, and prevention of thrips buildup.

About Godrej Agrovet:

Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL) is a diversified, Research & Development focused food and agri-business conglomerate, dedicated to improving the productivity of Indian farmers by innovating products and services that sustainably increase crop and livestock yields. GAVL holds leading market positions in the different businesses it operates - Animal Feed, Crop Protection, Oil Palm, Dairy, Poultry and Processed Foods. GAVL has a pan India presence with sales of over a million tons annually of high-quality animal feed. Our teams have worked closely with Indian farmers to develop large Oil Palm Plantations, which is helping in bridging the demand and supply gap of edible oil in India. In the crop protection segment, the Company has strong presence in the B2B segment through its subsidiary Astec Lifesciences and through its extensive distribution, network pan-India delivers innovative agrochemical offerings catering to the entire crop life cycles. In Dairy, Poultry, and Processed Foods, the company operates through its subsidiaries Creamline Dairy Products Limited and Godrej Tyson Foods Limited. Apart from this, GAVL also has a joint venture with the ACI group of Bangladesh for animal feed business in Bangladesh.

Cyient DLM Expands Global Footprint With Strategic Acquisition Of US-Based EMS Manufacturer

Cyient DLM, a leading integrated electronics manufacturing company, announced today its acquisition of Altek Electronics, a prominent EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Services) company based in the United States. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Cyient DLM's growth plan, expanding its presence in the North American market and strengthening its capabilities across key sectors.

Altek Electronics, with its strong footprint in the Medical & Healthcare and Industrial sectors, strengthens Cyient DLM’s capability in these sectors and adds a diverse customer base to Cyient DLM. The acquisition adds a number of Fortune 500 clients to Cyient DLM's portfolio and strategic engagements with multiple other key clients. Additionally, Altek Electronics, with its ITAR certification, positions Cyient DLM well to address the growing US Defense market. Through this acquisition Cyient DLM will also significantly expand its manufacturing capacity adding additional 80,000 sft of manufacturing area to cater to its clients globally.

This acquisition is in line with Cyient DLM’s strategic roadmap to expand geographic footprint, add strategic clients and increase client proximity.

Krishna Bodanapu, Executive Chairman of Cyient DLM, commented, "This acquisition is a pivotal moment for Cyient DLM. It expands our global footprint, brings us closer to our strategic customers, and significantly strengthens our capabilities. With this acquisition, Cyient DLM is not only broadening its reach into the Medical & Healthcare and Industrial sectors but also bolstering its capabilities for the Defense sector through ITAR compliance. Altek Electronics’ proven track record with key industry leading clients will accelerate Cyient DLM's ability to deliver high-performance, reliable services across these sectors.

Anthony Montalbano, CEO of Cyient DLM, added, "This acquisition is more than just an expansion, it is an important milestone for Cyient DLM. With the addition of Altek Electronics' expertise, we are enhancing our manufacturing capability & capacity, and strengthening our competitive position in the North American market. This allows us to continue offering world-class services that meet the evolving needs of our customers."

David Altschuler, CEO of Altek Electronics, mentioned, "Joining forces with Cyient DLM opens new avenues for us to scale our operations and leverage their global resources and industry expertise. As we enter this new chapter, we remain committed to upholding the values that have defined our success and look forward to leveraging expanded resources and capabilities to better serve our customers, suppliers, and stakeholders."

This acquisition highlights Cyient DLM's commitment to expanding its global footprint, diversifying its customer base, and positioning itself as a leader in the EMS sector for highly regulated and safety-critical industries. This move sets the stage for Cyient DLM's next phase of growth, ensuring long-term success and greater value for its customers worldwide. 

KMC Manipal Junior Resident Represents UN MGCY At The United Nations General Assembly

Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, takes immense pride in announcing that Dr. Poorvaprabha Patil, a second-year junior resident in the Department of Ophthalmology, recently made a remarkable contribution at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) held at the UN Headquarters in New York. Dr. Patil represented the United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth (UN MGCY) at the global forum, which brings together 193 countries to address pressing global challenges, including peace, security, climate change, and human rights.

Dr. Poorvaprabha Patil had the honour of moderating the Intergenerational Equity and Solidarity session at the UNGA Summit of the Future Action Day on September 20th. The session, held in the prestigious Trusteeship Council, was attended by world leaders, including ministers from Bahrain, Spain, and the Dominican Republic. Key topics discussed during the session included youth engagement, economic empowerment, green skills, civic engagement, and health.

In addition to her role as moderator, Dr. Patil also participated in several high-profile events during the UNGA high-level week. She had the unique opportunity to witness the speech delivered by India's Honourable Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, during the global forum, further enriching her experience at the United Nations.

On this proud occasion, Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor, Health Sciences, MAHE Manipal, extended his congratulations, stating "Dr. Poorvaprabha’s representation at the United Nations General Assembly is a shining example of the incredible global impact our students and residents can have. Her leadership and commitment to the causes of youth engagement and sustainable development reflect the values that MAHE stands for. We are proud of her achievements and look forward to the remarkable heights she will continue to scale."

Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, Dean of Kasturba Medical College, also expressed his admiration "It is truly an honour for KMC Manipal to have one of our own residents play such a pivotal role on the global stage. Dr. Poorvaprabha Patil’s involvement in such a prestigious forum is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for creating positive change. Her contribution to the global conversation on youth engagement and sustainable development is inspiring, and we are immensely proud of her."

Dr. Poorvaprabha’s participation in the UNGA highlights the growing role of young leaders in shaping global policies and driving sustainable change across the world. Her voice, alongside other esteemed global leaders, contributes to building a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Yamaha’s Exclusive Pavilion At Mela! Mela! Anime Japan Excites Fans And Enthusiasts In New Delhi

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. participated in the inaugural ‘Mela! Mela! Anime Japan’, a landmark event celebrating the vibrant fusion of Japanese culture and anime fandom. The two-day event, held at Pacific Mall, Tagore Garden, New Delhi on the 28th and 29th of September, witnessed an overwhelming response from young enthusiasts and anime fans, who also visited Yamaha Pavilion at the fest.

The Yamaha Pavilion dazzled visitors with its signature blue-themed design, crafted to provide an interactive ‘touch and feel’ experience. Drawing inspiration from gaming and anime culture, the pavilion showcased a striking, sporty, and youthful atmosphere that resonated deeply with Gen Z audiences and the quintessential Yamaha enthusiasts.

In addition, the anime inspired pavilion also showcased Yamaha’s latest RayZR Street Rally 125 Fi Hybrid along with the R15 V4 and the MT-15 V2 for the visitors to experience the exhilaration of its two-wheelers. Apart from the displays, the pavilion also had a dedicated merchandise section for visitors to get their hands on Yamaha souvenirs, a Snap and share engagement adding to the digital memories, and a Monster Energy counter to keep the enthusiasm at full throttle, among other exciting engagements. The excitement multifolded with the presence of a famous Japanese singer - Spira Spica and a renowned Gamer and influencer - Kaashvi Hiranandani at the Yamaha Pavilion.

Supported by the Government of India and Japan, the Mela! Mela! Anime Japan Fest offered a rare opportunity for attendees to experience authentic Japanese culture and the vibrant world of anime. With a lineup of engaging anime-related activities that included a Japanese Film Festival and a host of Japanese brands attracting visitors with their unique products and services, the event saw one of the largest gatherings of enthusiasts of this vibrant subculture in India.

PDRL Announces The 2nd Edition Of AeroGCS Global Competition: Elevating Drone Innovation To New Heights

-        This year’s prize pool features a cash award of Rs 2.5 Lakh for the AeroGCS Champion, Rs 1 Lakh for the AeroGCS Expert, and Rs 50 Thousand for the AeroGCS Professional.

PDRL announces its 2nd AeroGCS Global Competition inviting participants to register now. Building on the success of last year, this year the competition is set to further encourage drone technology enthusiasts, innovators, and professionals to contribute to the evolving drone ecosystem while placing a special emphasis on creativity and positive social impact.

Global Platform for Drone Pioneers

The AeroGCS Global Competition 2.O invites individuals aged 18 and above whether Drone enthusiasts, Professionals, or Students—to join a journey of innovation. Beyond technical skills, the competition emphasizes the development of drone solutions that can bring about meaningful social change. The competition seeks to challenge participants to apply their technical skills toward addressing pressing global issues, such as agricultural efficiency, environmental sustainability, and disaster relief, among others.

Competition Overview: Phases and Structure

Registration is open until 7th December 2024, and the competition will progress through a series of rounds designed to assess participants' technical knowledge and practical drone flight skills:

*      Round 1 on Saturday, 14th Dec. 2024 – An online multiple-choice quiz focusing on drone technology fundamentals and its potential for social impact.

*      Round 2 on Saturday, 4th Jan. 2025 – A virtual simulation challenge using AeroGCS GREEN and an advanced drone simulator.

*      Round 3 on Saturday, 25th Jan. 2025 – The final on-field challenge held in Hyderabad where participants will go through a written test followed by configuration and execution of a live drone flight mission using AeroGCS Green & AeroGCS Enterprise.

This multi-stage format will ensure that only the best drone experts advance to the final on-ground event, where they will compete for top honours.

Awards and Recognition

The AeroGCS Global Competition 2.O offers more than just prestige; it provides participants with substantial rewards and career opportunities. This year’s prize pool includes a cash prize of Rs 2.5 Lakh for the AeroGCS Champion, Rs. One Lakh for AeroGCS Expert, Rs. 50 Thousand for AeroGCS Professional along with a PDRL Certificate, Social Media Spotlights, and potential job offers from PDRL and partners in the drone industry. Beyond the prizes, participants will also have the chance to network with industry leaders and potential employers, positioning this competition as a valuable stepping stone for their future careers.

Opportunity for participants

This year’s AeroGCS Global Competition 2.O is more than just a contest; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of drone technology while contributing to the broader good. Participants will have the chance to connect with thought leaders and innovators from around the world, gaining insights and mentorship that extend beyond the competition itself.

PDRL is committed to supporting the development of drone technology that not only pushes technical boundaries but also addresses the challenges facing communities worldwide.

Registration Details

Participants can register online at https://aerogcs.com/aerogcs-global-competition-2-0/, pay a nominal participation fee, and gain access to learning resources through PDRL’s AeroMegh platform. For those who qualify for the final round, PDRL will provide support in terms of travel and accommodation, ensuring the competition remains accessible to all.

Speaking about the competition, Anil Chandaliya, Founder of PDRL said, “India is undergoing a technological revolution as we strive for Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and drones, along with other emerging technologies, are leading this transformation across industries like construction, agriculture, mining, and healthcare.” He further added, “At PDRL, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of drone technology through continuous innovation. The AeroGCS Global Competition is the ideal platform to showcase this vision. We are eager to see how participants not only advance drone technology but also apply it to solve real-world social challenges.”

Vishal Joshi, Head - Training and Certification of PDRL said, “AeroGCS Global Competition is not just about identifying the next wave of drone innovators; it’s about giving them the tools and platform to create technology that makes a difference.” He further added, “We believe that drones have the potential to solve real-world problems, and through this competition, we want to spark a global conversation about how technology can be used to drive positive social impact.”

Northern Uni Set To Launch End-To-End Student-Led Satellite Project

The soon to be launched Satellite will carry an array of sophisticated instruments designed to study the Space atmosphere and demonstrate communication technologies.

This also marks the first student-led Satellite Technology project for the Government School students of Jaffna region in Sri Lanka.

Chennai, 4th October 2024: In commemoration of World Space Week, Northern Uni today signed a strategic MoU with Space Kidz India to launch a collaborative student-led satellite project, marking a monumental step in space education for the northern region of Sri Lanka. The MoU was signed in the city in the presence of Dr. Prafulla Kumar Jain, Director - InSpace Ahmedabad, Mr. Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman - SLIIT Northern Uni, Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder & CEO - SpaceKidz India, Ms. Alma Okpalefe, Executive Director - World Space Week Association and Dr. Saranya Jaikumar, Educational Psychologist, symbolizing the region's first foray into space technology. This ambitious project will bring together students from both Northern Uni and Government schools in Jaffna, along with students from India, to jointly design, develop, and launch a satellite. The satellite will carry sophisticated instruments aimed at studying the space atmosphere and demonstrating cutting-edge communication technologies.

This collaborative effort helmed by Northern Uni is expected to yield invaluable data for scientific research while showcasing the technological prowess of student innovators from both nations. This project also offers students a firsthand exposure to satellite technology and also the chance to participate in groundbreaking research that has the potential to contribute innovative solutions to global challenges. The initiative will equip students with essential skills in satellite development, data analysis, and communication technologies, preparing them for future careers in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. By engaging in this landmark project, students from both countries will play a role in advancing space research and promoting technological innovation that benefits society.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman SLIIT Northern Uni, said, "This initiative is a giant leap for both Sri Lanka and India in cultivating a culture of scientific collaboration and mutual innovation. Our students, the future citizens of both nations, will gain unparalleled exposure to the intricacies of satellite technology. What excites me most is the way this project fosters cross-border collaboration among students from different backgrounds, cultures, and educational systems. They will not only develop advanced skills in science and engineering but also learn the value of teamwork and shared goals. Through this project, we are building not just a satellite, but a future where innovation knows no borders.”

Adding to this Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder and CEO of Space Kidz India, said, "This project represents a shared vision for both India and Sri Lanka—one that sees education, technology, and space exploration as tools for uniting people and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. By engaging students from both countries, we are planting the seeds of a future generation that will work collaboratively on global challenges. These young minds will become the torchbearers of scientific progress, and their participation in building and launching this satellite is just the beginning. Space technology is an incredibly powerful platform, and through this project, we aim to inspire students to look beyond geographical boundaries and become true innovators and leaders in space science.”

The project is structured into two key phases. 

Phase 1 will focus on training students in space science and technology, with 50 school students from Sri Lanka, 10 school students from India, and 50 college students undergoing comprehensive training. This phase is designed to give participants a foundational understanding of satellite development and space missions, offering a rich educational experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights.

Phase 2 will involve 30 college students from Sri Lanka who will be directly engaged in building, integrating, and preparing the satellite for its eventual launch. The collaborative process will allow them to work alongside Indian experts and their peers, gaining hands-on experience in satellite construction. Furthermore, 15 college students and 50 school students from Sri Lanka will travel to India to witness the satellite launch, creating a powerful learning opportunity that will inspire future generations to pursue careers in space science and technology.

About Northern Uni -  Northern Uni is dedicated to providing world-class education and fostering innovation, with a particular focus on STEM subjects. The university strives to offer equal opportunities for all students, and its satellite project represents a critical step in expanding access to space technology in Sri Lanka.

About Space Kidz India -  Space Kidz India is a renowned organization dedicated to promoting space education and research. With a successful track record of satellite launches and space missions, Space Kidz India plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of space science in India and around the world.

Photo Caption:  From Left to Right: Students of SLIIT Northern Uni; G L Gnanatheva, Minister (Commerce), Sri Lanka Deputy High Commission;  Dr Saranya Jaikumar, Educational Psychologist;  Mr Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman, SLIIT Northern Uni; Dr Srimathy Kesan, Founder & CEO – Space Kidz India; Dr Prafulla Kumar, Director – InSpace, Ahmedabad and students of Space Kidz India.

Gandhigiri: From Sarcasm To Substance—Reviving The True Spirit -Commodore SR Sridhar (Retd)

With my morning cup of coffee, I turned on the TV to catch up on the news and see how the nation was observing Gandhi Jayanthi. I was taken aback when the news host casually remarked, “Let’s do some ‘Gandhigiri’ in today’s show,” with a giggle and a tone that carried a hint of sarcasm. The word, spoken so dismissively, provoked me, as it seemed to reduce the depth of Gandhi’s legacy to something trivial or funny.

Gandhigiri is a term that has evolved over the decades, gaining momentum in casual conversations at college tea shops and street corners where young people gather for debates and usual chitter-chatter. It reflects a disconnect that often exists between the youth and Gandhi’s core principles of nonviolence and truth. Today’s youth, while they may recognize the historical importance of Gandhi, view Gandhigiri with a blend of admiration, practicality, and skepticism.

Many young people still respect the essence of Gandhigiri, particularly nonviolence (ahimsa), truth (satyagraha), and civil disobedience as methods of positive change. These values are seen as timeless, particularly for activism, social reform, and environmental issues. However, the 2006 Bollywood film Lage Raho Munna Bhai was instrumental in making Gandhigiri popular again by presenting Gandhian ideals in a humorous and relatable way, showing how they can be applied to resolve everyday conflicts. This modern portrayal through Sanjay Dutt, though lighthearted, brought Gandhi’s philosophy back into contemporary discourse.

Despite this revival, Gandhianism is often viewed as an idealistic proposition in today’s fast-paced world. The gap between Gandhi’s ideals and their practical application has grown wider, given the complexities of modern life. In a world that rewards competitiveness and immediate results, the slow, deliberate approach of nonviolent resistance and truth-telling can seem impractical. Yet, the power of Gandhi’s principles endures. His emphasis on ethical leadership and public service remains more relevant than ever in a time when trust in political and corporate leaders is waning. Although difficult to practice consistently, values like honesty, transparency, and moral courage are still admired and aspired to.

The Gandhigiri we sometimes hear spoken of today with skepticism or dismissal—the playful, almost superficial version—does not capture the profound depth of Gandhi’s teachings. True Gandhigiri is not just about being kind or nonviolent in an easy, surface-level way; it’s about embodying resilience, moral courage, and unwavering integrity, even when the world seems to run counter to those values. While some may laugh or giggle at the term, the true spirit of Gandhigiri is a powerful force that can bring about lasting change in a world that sorely needs it.