Oktoberfest Fun Awaits At GALA, BLVD Club By Embassy!

Get ready to experience the vibrant and festive spirit of Oktoberfest at GALA, hosted by the exclusive BLVD Club by Embassy on the 20th of October from 1 PM onwards. A perfect event for family and friends, this lively celebration promises an afternoon filled with entertainment, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and exciting activities for everyone.

Menu Highlights

Oktoberfest at GALA will feature an array of mouth-watering treats including hot dogs, pizza, sliders, and freshly baked pretzels—perfect for indulging as you soak in the festive atmosphere. Pair these delicious bites with refreshing beverages to complete the ultimate Oktoberfest experience.

Live Music Performances

Adding to the festivities will be electrifying live performances by Cold Sweat, a renowned band from Sri Lanka, and the talented Strange Brew band. Their high-energy sets will keep the crowd dancing and entertained throughout the event.

Whether you're a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a fun-filled day, there’s something for everyone!

Event Details:

Date: 20th October 2024

Time: 1 PM onwards

Venue: BLVD Club by Embassy, GALA

Open to: Members and guests

Dress Code: Festive casual

For more information or to RSVP, contact: +91 9731101414

Yamaha Commits To Expand Green Cover By 6,000 Sqm In Greater Noida

* In collaboration with Forest Division Gautam Budha Nagar, India Yamaha Motor will plant and maintain 21,000 trees across 6,000 sqm. area at the Wetland Buffer Zone 2 in Greater Noida

India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd. is proud to announce an increased investment in environmental activities as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, which strives to give back to society and the environment. The company intends a more extensive approach under this drive and offers a stronger commitment, which includes the planting of 21,000 trees across 6,000 square metres of land in the Wetland Buffer Zone 2, Greater Noida in collaboration with the Forest Division Gautam Budha Nagar. These initiatives align with Yamaha’s commitment to build a sustainable future through the absorption of carbon emissions and the subsequent achievement of carbon neutrality. 

This effort is part of a four-year contract with the Gautam Budha Nagar Forest Division, involving plantation in the first year and subsequent maintenance over the next three years for the larger benefit of the society.

Speaking about this initiative, Mr. Eishin Chihana, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies said, "As part of Yamaha Motor Group’s Environmental Plan 2050, we are committed to addressing climate change, promoting resource recycling, and preserving biodiversity. Our recent Miyawaki forest initiative in Noida, planted over a wetland buffer zone, underscores our focus on enhancing green cover and contributing to the conservation of natural ecosystems. Sustainability remains at the core of our growth strategy in India, and this initiative is a testament to our commitment to building a greener, more sustainable future.”

In the year 2022, Yamaha initiated the tree planting effort with the help of the Miyawaki method, which uses native species ensuring rapid growth and high-density greenery, at Wetland Buffer Zone 1 in Greater Noida. It was a three-year project and the initiative involved planting 7,000 saplings over 2,000 square metres of land. As of 2024, the saplings have grown into fully-grown trees, transforming the area into a dense forest within just two years. The success of this project demonstrates the effectiveness of the planting and reflects Yamaha’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

Such initiatives not only highlight Yamaha’s dedication to fostering a green environment but also aim to create long-term benefits for future generations through environmental stewardship and the promotion of carbon neutrality. Yamaha places great value on communicating with all its stakeholders and strives to contribute to the ecological-friendly development of society through its business activities which are built on the foundation of its corporate philosophy towards sustainability.

About Yamaha Motor India group of companies:

Yamaha Motor made its initial foray into India in 1985 as a joint venture. In August 2001, it became a 100% subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd, Japan (YMC). In 2008, Mitsui & Co., Ltd. entered into an agreement with YMC to become a joint investor in India Yamaha Motor Private Limited (IYM). IYM's manufacturing facilities comprise State-of-the-art plants at Surajpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu). The infrastructure at these plants supports the production of motorcycles and parts for the domestic as well as overseas markets. YMC has established its subsidiaries - Yamaha Motor Research and Development India Pvt Ltd. (YMRI), Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt Ltd. (YMIS) and Yamaha Motor India Pvt Ltd. (YMI) in India to independently support IYM in the development, sales & marketing of its products and overall business planning & regional control respectively. Presently, its product portfolio includes YZF-R3 (321cc), MT-03 (321cc), YZF-R15M (155cc), YZF-R15 V4 (155cc), YZF-R15S V3 (155cc),  MT-15 V2 (155cc); FZ-S Fi Version 4.0 (149cc), FZ-S Fi Version 3.0 (149cc), FZ Fi Version 3.0 (149cc), FZ-X (149cc), maxi-scooter Aerox Version S (155cc), Aerox (155cc) and scooters like Fascino 125 Fi Hybrid (125cc), Fascino S 125 Fi Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR Street Rally 125 Fi Hybrid (125cc).

Redefining Men's Jewellery Men Of Platinum Introduces The MS Dhoni Signature Collection

~A first in the category MS Dhoni’s signature is immortalized in rare platinum! ~

Platinum Guild International (PGI) India’s Men of Platinum has launched the MS Dhoni Signature Collection, immortalising the inspiring values of cricketing legend MS Dhoni. This exclusive collection boasts of designs that reflect not only Dhoni’s immaculate style and brilliant journey but also his unmatched character and greatness. Cast in rare platinum and infused with his indomitable spirit, every piece in this collection serves as a tribute to MS Dhoni’s enduring legacy. Determination, self-belief, courage, humility, composure are all qualities that Dhoni stands for and each piece tells the story of these qualities that he holds close. A true ‘man of platinum’, and a fitting inspiration for a one-of-a-kind limited platinum jewellery collection that aspires to stir that same greatness in those who don the collection.

Born of the stars, platinum is found only in select locations across the globe and is a symbol of what is truly rare and precious. Each piece of jewellery in this newly launched collection, bears the legend MS Dhoni’s signature – a precious piece of India’s sporting legacy, etched in platinum. Crafted in 95% platinum this collection from Men of Platinum is cast with clean, bold lines with minimalism at its core.

Talking about the association MS Dhoni shared, “It’s been an honour to collaborate with Men of Platinum on this special collection. Platinum, with its strength, rarity, and enduring qualities, has always stood out for me. This collection, marked with my signature, carries personal significance. It reflects the values that have shaped who I am—grit, composure, and self-belief. For me, these pieces are more than just jewellery; they are a tribute to the lessons I’ve learned and the path I’ve walked.”

Vaishali Banerjee, Managing Director of Platinum Guild International, India, said, “It is a privilege and an honour to collaborate with MS Dhoni on this unique collection. Each piece in the collection carries his signature, making it truly special. It is a partnership that goes beyond creating beautiful jewellery—it’s about aligning our brand with qualities that truly resonate with our consumers, such as grit, resilience, and leadership. Through this association with MS Dhoni, we are confident that we will reinforce the values that platinum represents and further elevate its stature as a symbol of enduring success.”

ELEVATE YOUR STYLE GAME, WITH THESE TOP 5 PIECES FROM THE MS DHONI SIGNATURE EDITION:

THE PLATINUM GRID BRACELET

Elegance meets strength in this dual tone kada, featuring a sophisticated grid pattern with rose gold accents on the side. This kada is crafted from 95% pure platinum, a metal whose strength remains unwavering through years of wear, making it rare! Bearing the legend MS Dhoni’s signature, this piece is perfect for those who exude quiet determination and strong character.

THE PLATINUM MOMENTUM BRACELET

The alternating bevelled triangles on the front of this bracelet, with a striking blend of gloss and matte finishes, symbolise the strength to navigate life’s ups and downs with unwavering values. The back features MS Dhoni's iconic signature on a sleek black centrepiece. Cast in platinum -an enduring metal as resolute as the legend who inspired it -this bracelet is crafted for those who face life's challenges with relentless drive, proving that true greatness comes from within.

THE PLATINUM CUBE FUSION BRACELET

The alternating brushed matte platinum and glossy rose gold cube links achieve the perfect balance of versatility and durability. Crafted in platinum -a metal that endures through years of wear, making it truly rare –this bracelet, featuring MS Dhoni’s iconic signature on black, is designed for those who strike a balance between staying adaptable and yet true to their values no matter what.

THE PLATINUM BOLD LINKS BRACELET

Bold, interlocking platinum links form a robust bracelet that reflects the power of unyielding resilience. Crafted from 95% pure platinum, it’s a metal that remains unfading over time, making it incredibly rare. The bracelet features a solid clasp that carries MS Dhoni's signature, embodying his indomitable strength and unwavering resolve. Designed for men who cherish these values, this piece inspires them to always find strength within.

THE PLATINUM HARMONY CHAIN

Intricate platinum links intertwine to form a seamless, fluid chain, mirroring the harmonious blend of inner strength and outward composure. Crafted from platinum, a metal maintains its natural pristine white over time, never fading or tarnishing. A metal that’s simply rare. With a solid clasp, featuring the legend MS Dhoni's signature, it is made for those who weave together their resilience and calm in the face of life's odds.

This collection hits stores beginning October just in time for Diwali and will be available with key retailers across India.

Facebook: @MenOfPlatinum

Instagram: @MenOfPlatinum

ABOUT PLATINUM GUILD INTERNATIONAL (PGI)

Platinum Guild International (PGI) is a marketing organization with the vision to develop the global platinum jewellery market as a new demand source for platinum. It was formed in 1975 with specialist teams dedicated to growing the global platinum jewellery market through consumer and trade-facing programmes in the four key jewellery markets of China, India, Japan and USA. Since then, jewellery development has demonstrated a strong track record in delivering results.

Through various programmes, both direct-to-consumer and in collaboration with jewellery retailers and manufacturers, PGI creates consumer-ounce demand by first identifying opportunities for platinum in jewellery, and then developing them with partners. It also aims to build an enduring commitment to platinum in jewellery. 

PGI’s consumer marketing and educational programmes are focused on developing awareness and an appreciation for platinum’s unique properties as a precious metal for fine jewellery.

In addition, PGI works globally with collaborative partners running extensive marketing programmes in the four main platinum jewellery markets of China, Japan, USA and India. These markets are staffed with strategic planning, marketing, retail, design, and business development experts.

PGI is funded by the leading platinum producers of South Africa, as well as through co-funded programmes with the jewellery industry.

PURITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM

PGI has partnered with TUV India Pvt Ltd to implement a robust audit programme to ensure the purity of platinum under its programme. TUV is one of the country’s first certification bodies and has been closely associated with the quality revolution in India.

Under Platinum Guild India’s quality assurance programme, each piece of jewellery has an assured purity as high as 95%. And as proof of this assurance, every piece is stamped ‘Pt950’ and comes with a tamper-proof quality assurance card that distinguishes authentic platinum from other jewellery.

Hero MotoSports Scripts History - Ross Branch Is The New FIM World Rally-Raid Champion!

Hero MotoSports Team Rally, the motorsport team of the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters - Hero MotoCorp, today crossed the last finish line of Rallye Du Maroc 2024, and with it, Ross Branch was crowed the new FIM World Rally-Raid Champion. This race was the 5th and final round of the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) 2024.

Finishing strong with the highest Championship points, Hero rider Ross - fondly known as the ‘Kalahari Ferrari’ – has showcased some of his career-best performances, since the beginning of the 2024 season.

In January, he delivered Hero MotoSports their first-ever Dakar podium, by finishing 2nd overall at Dakar 2024 – which was also the first round of the W2RC. A month later, the Botswanan finished 2nd in the Championship at Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and moved up to the #1 spot in the Championship rankings. He went on to finish 5th overall at both Rally Raid Portugal (April), and Desafio Ruta 40, Argentina (June). This remarkable streak helped Ross maintain the lead position until the end of Round 5 in Morocco this week – eventually rewarding him with the coveted crown.

The rally World Championship for motorbikes dates back to 2003, and since then 10 riders have etched their names into the FIM history books. Ross Branch joins this prestigious list, as the eleventh rider – also becoming the first African rider to win the World Championship.

Making their indelible mark in history, team Hero MotoSports has reached the peak of racing glory in their 8th year of racing. This is the first FIM World title for the team, which also reached very close to winning the Dakar this year. Today’s victory cements the Indian manufacturer’s place in the history of the sport, making it the sixth manufacturer to earn a FIM World title - joining the big league of larger and older teams. Hero also becomes the first team to break the World Championship streak of the KTM group (comprising of KTM, GasGas, & Husqvarna), which they held since 2014.

At the 25th edition of the Rallye Du Maroc, team Hero was represented by three riders: Ross Branch, Nacho Cornejo, and Sebastian Buhler. After a straightforward prologue at Marakkech, the rally took an adventurous turn with unexpected challenges from rains and floods. The washed out terrain became all the more treacherous, resulting in several competitors retiring midway owing to accidents and injury. Hero rider Sebastian Buhler exited in Stage 2 after a crash, leaving Branch and Cornejo to continue the fight. Covering almost 2500 kms across the grand Sahara, the 6-day Rally has culminated at Mengoub-Bouârfa, near the Algerian border.

The week also saw a heart-warming display of true team spirit and brotherhood at the Hero camp. After Ross’ closest competitor in the championship exited the race due to injury, it was understood that he only needed to finish the Rally to win the World Championship. With the entire team aligned towards ensuring a safe finish for the leading star, Nacho Cornejo opted to perform wingman duties for Ross. Ignoring his own race performance, the Chilean stayed by Ross’ side throughout the week - ready to jump in at a moment’s notice, in case Ross were to run into any trouble.

With this iconic victory, Hero MotoSports moves one step forward in its vision of conquering the global stage. Starting as a rookie team in 2016, the galore of accomplishments reached in 2024 underlines the Indian manufacturer’s engineering prowess, persistent hard work, and dedication to the sport. The World Championship victory serves as a powerful motivation for the team, even as they prepare for the 2025 season – which will kick off with the mighty Dakar Rally, next January.

Wolfgang Fischer, Team Manager, Hero MotoSports Team Rally:

“This is our moment of glory - forever etched in the annals of sporting history. Ross, our shining star has brought home our priciest possession – the World Championship. Our journey to this moment started exactly 8 years back – as a small setup with limited resources and big dreams. I’m extremely happy for Ross, and really proud of what our entire team has achieved through consistent hard work and dedication over the years.

Building on our best-ever Dakar performance, we were able to continue a high-performance streak throughout the year - winning the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, and finishing 2nd at the Rally Raid Portugal. Rallye Du Maroc was of utmost importance – and the entire team stepped up to face the last challenge. I’m proud of Nacho, who did an exceptional job at helping Ross to cross the finish safe. I also wish Basti a safe recovery.

On behalf of the team I would like to thank our dear Chairman Dr. Pawan Munjal for his strong belief and continued support for us. A big congratulations and thank you to all our partners, supporters, and fans across the globe. Now it’s time to celebrate! We’ll be back soon, see you at the Dakar!”

Ross Branch:

“No words can capture the magnitude of this incredible moment. I am thrilled to see the entire team’s hard work come together, and witnessing everyone’s happiness is a success in itself. I feel fortunate to be part of such a passionate family! Thank you, to everyone who believed in me and provided me with this opportunity. It is truly overwhelming!”

As we look ahead into 2025, I see a bright future for our young team — this is just the beginning. This victory represents one of the biggest steps in the right direction for Hero, and I am really excited about the future. Thank you all for your unwavering support."

Nacho Cornejo:

“Finally, Rallye du Maroc 2024 has come to a close. I am super excited about how the rally unfolded, and proud of all the hard work the team has put behind. I’m especially delighted for Ross as he wins the World Championship title. It’s rewarding to see years of dedication culminate in this success, and I’m grateful for the efforts of everyone at Hero MotoSports. Now it’s time to celebrate, relax, and unwind before we gear up for the next season!"

Overall Rankings after Stage 5 (Rally GP Class)

1.           Daniel Sanders                              Red Bull KTM Factory Racing       15h 45m 06s

2.           Tosha Schareina                           Monster Energy Honda Team   + 11m 07s

3.           Luciano Benavides                       Red Bull KTM Factory Racing   + 21m 03s

5.           Ross Branch                                 Hero MotoSports Team Rally + 45m 33s

7.           Nacho Cornejo                            Hero MotoSports Team Rally + 01h 15m 01s

2024 FIM World Rally-Raid Championship Standings (After Round 5)

1.           Ross Branch                                 Hero MotoSports Team Rally 88 Points

2.           Adrien Van Beveren                    Monster Energy Honda Team   76 Points

3.           Tosha Schareina                           Monster Energy Honda Team   70 Points

4.           Ricky Brabec                                 Monster Energy Honda Team   63 Points

5.           Nacho Cornejo                            Hero MotoSports Team Rally 41 Points

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Introduces Urban Cruiser Hyryder ‘Festival Limited Edition’

* New Festival Limited Edition of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder comes with Premium Accessories package, adding Style, Smartness and Comfort

* Available in both Hybrid and Neo Drive powertrains in top 2 variants G and V, offers, a complimentary package worth ?50,817 for a limited time across all dealerships

Reinforcing its legacy of innovation and customer-centric approach, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the introduction of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder ‘Festival Limited Edition’, featuring exclusive Toyota Genuine Accessories (TGA) Package. This latest addition to the Urban Cruiser Hyryder line-up comes with 13 specially designed TGA, further enhancing the dynamic and premium driving experience.

Exterior Chrome and Ornamental Accessories: Mudflap, Door Visor (Premium with SS Insert), Front and Rear Bumper Garnish, Head Lamp Garnish, Hood Emblem, Body Cladding, Fender Garnish, Rear Door Lid Garnish, and Door Chrome Handle

Interior Premium and Advanced Accessories: All-Weather 3D Floormat, Leg Room Lamp, and a Digital Video Recorder

Since its debut in 2022, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder has carved a special place in the hearts of the consumers across the country, with its cutting-edge technology, dynamic performance, and best-in-class fuel efficiency. Its bold and sophisticated styling, combined with Toyota’s renowned global SUV lineage, has made it one of the most sought-after models in the B-SUV segment. With ever growing customer demand and overwhelming acceptance across the nation, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder continues to be a preferred choice for customers seeking a more sustainable driving option without compromising on the performance or the comfort.

The Urban Cruiser Hyryder Festival Limited Edition will offer a range of premium enhancements with the TGA Package, designed to further accentuate the vehicle’s aesthetics and convenience. This package with 13 accessories is specifically selected to give a refined premium look to both the exterior and interior of the vehicle. This exclusive package is available for the V and G grades of both the Neo Drive and Hybrid variants, providing wider choices to diverse customers.

Commenting on the introduction, Mr. Sabari Manohar – Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “Ever since its launch in 2022, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder has been a symbol of TKM’s commitment to providing sustainable mobility and has gained enormous popularity with high customer satisfaction. The growing demand and positive reception have encouraged us to continually enhance our offerings. Our unrelenting customer-centric approach has inspired us to stay ahead of the curve by understanding the diverse needs of our customers and offering an array of products and services.

With the introduction of the Urban Cruiser Hyryder Festival Limited Edition featuring the exclusive TGA Package, we aim to deliver a more personalized and premium driving experience for our customers, while providing the legendary performance and efficiency that the Urban Cruiser Hyryder is known for. What makes it an even greater value proposition is that the SUV is backed by renowned Toyota value-added services specially designed with Indian customers in mind. Furthermore, during this festive period, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder Festival Limited Edition comes with a complimentary package, delivering happiness to our valued customers”.

As part of this special launch, TKM is offering a complimentary package worth ?50,817 for the customers opting for Urban Cruiser Hyryder Festival Limited Edition made available at dealerships across India until 31st October 2024. All TGAs will be fitted by certified Toyota technicians across dealerships, ensuring the highest quality standards and customer satisfaction. Further, the Urban Cruiser Hyryder Festival Limited Edition is complemented by an array of value-added services such as Extended Warranty & Toyota Genuine Accessories, focusing on affordability and flexibility that will be beneficial to the customers.

Bookings are open across all Toyota dealerships. Customers can either book the car online https://www.toyotabharat.com/online-booking/ or visit their nearest Toyota dealership.

VRSI And RSSDI Launch Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Guidelines Aimed At Preventing Diabetes-Related Vision Loss

* The guidelines are an initiative to combat diabetes related vision loss, which if detected on time, is preventable

With over 101 million people with diabetes in India, the country has emerged as the diabetes capital of the world. As a result, a simultaneous and sharp rise has been observed in the prevalence of diabetes-related preventable vision loss.  A diabetologist plays an important role in timely screening for diabetic retinopathy and referring to an ophthalmologist for its management. Vitreo Retinal Society of India (VRSI) and Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) have collaborated to formulate first-of-its-kind Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Guidelines, which will help every physician and diabetologist in India to educate their patients regarding diabetic retinopathy.

Owing to lifestyle modifications, migration to cities, obesity, and stress, there has been an increase in the number of diabetes patients in the country, parallelly increasing the number of diabetes related vision loss cases. Type -2 diabetes is common amongst the working-age population, impacting their physical and mental health. This condition if not screened timely can become the leading cause of blindness in India, causing a huge economic burden. With a national prevalence of 12.5% of diabetic retinopathy and 4% of vision-threatening ‘Diabetic Retinopathy’, approximately 3 million Indians are at a risk of vision loss. This highlights the critical need for timely screening of every patient with diabetes to prevent an irreversible loss of vision, which goes undetected in its early stage and is thus aptly known as a 'silent thief of sight.'

This initiative aims to empower healthcare professionals—often the first point of contact for those living with diabetes—with the tools and knowledge necessary to promote early detection and intervention, ultimately reducing the risk of severe vision impairment and blindness caused due to diabetic retinopathy.

Diabetic retinopathy screening guidelines for Physicians in India: Position statement by VRSI and RSSDI were released at a conference in Delhi, with eminent healthcare professionals and industry body leaders in attendance. Dr. Sudha Chandrashekar (Former Executive Director, National Health Authority – Ministry of Health and Family Welfare), Dr. R. Kim (President, VRSI), Dr. Manisha Agarwal (Gen Secretary, VRSI), Dr. Rakesh Sahay (President, RSSDI), and Dr. Sanjay Agarwal (Secretary General, RSSDI) shared their insights during the session, outlining the status of diabetic retinopathy in India and the gaps being bridged by the established recommendations.

Table 1: Diabetic retinopathy screening guidelines for Physicians in India: position statement by the Vitreoretinal Society of India (VRSI) and the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI)

Dr. Sudha Chandrashekar, Former Executive Director, National Health Authority – Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, added, “To safeguard the vision of millions of Indians living with diabetes, diabetic retinopathy screening has been integrated into the government’s Ayushman Bharat scheme. By prioritizing early detection at a national level, this initiative aims to preserve eyesight and improve health outcomes across the country. Diabetic retinopathy screening is particularly beneficial for the beneficiaries of the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) scheme, helping to avoid higher costs in the management of advanced stages of DR and ensuring better health outcomes.”

Dr. R Kim, President, VRSI, commented, “We’re pleased to collectively unveil these guidelines and set a new standard for diabetic retinopathy screening in India. By encouraging collaboration between physicians, diabetologists, and ophthalmologists, we aim to promote better diabetes management and reduce the incidence of preventable vision loss across the nation.”

Highlighting the importance of diabetic retinopathy screening, Dr. Manisha Agarwal, Gen Secretary, VRSI, said, "Despite the increasing prevalence of diabetic retinopathy, limited awareness and the often asymptomatic nature of the condition result in a disappointingly low number of individuals with diabetes seeking eye screenings. This makes it imperative to raise awareness about vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy and the need for timely screening and management.”

" In India, the growing number of individuals living with diabetes highlights the importance of not only monitoring glucose levels but also undergoing regular screenings for other health complications associated with diabetes to maintain overall health. Diabetic retinopathy is one such complication that, if left untreated, can cause severe and often irreversible vision loss. These guidelines will play a key role in increasing awareness among general physicians and diabetologists about the critical need for timely diabetic retinopathy screening," stated Dr. Sanjay Agarwal, Secretary General, RSSDI.

Published in the renowned International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries, the guidelines serve as a comprehensive reckoner and mark a crucial milestone in India’s journey to advancing diabetes management and screening for Diabetic retinopathy effectively.

MoU Signed Between IIIT Bangalore Innovation Centre And Sungkyunkwan University Startup Support Foundation

Innovation Centre at International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B) and Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) Startup Support Foundation signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on September 27, 2024, at the Natural Science Campus of SKKU in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea.   

This MoU is aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange to strengthen startup support between universities in India and South Korea. The primary objectives of this partnership include:

• Supporting startups from both institutions in exploring business opportunities in India and South Korea.

• Facilitating connections between startup-related institutions in both countries.

• Jointly organizing startup-related seminars, workshops, and networking events.

Professor Kim Kyung-hwan, Director, Sungkyunkwan University Startup Support Foundation and Dean of the Global Startup Graduate School, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "This partnership will help us explore practical avenues for cooperation to strengthen our startup ecosystem. Through these efforts, we aim to lay a strong foundation that contributes to the economic development of both nations."

Dr. Lakshmi Jagannathan, Chief Executive Officer, IIIT-B Innovation Centre and Executive VP, COMET Foundation, highlighted that this collaboration will provide a significant boost to the Indo-Korean Innovation Corridor.

Prof. Debabrata Das, Director, IIIT-Bangalore, said that this partnership with the Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) Startup Support Team strengthens the bridge between India and South Korea’s startup ecosystems. It will create opportunities for deep technology startups to scale internationally, leveraging the strengths of both countries. We are happy to collaborate, share insights, and drive innovation that benefits both nations' start-ups. This is a significant step toward fostering global entrepreneurship"

About Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) Startup Support Foundation

The Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) Startup Support Foundation fosters entrepreneurship by providing mentoring, funding, and networking opportunities to students, researchers, and faculty. Through incubator programs and industry partnerships, the team helps turn innovative ideas into successful startups. SKKU’s support enables entrepreneurs to scale their businesses and make an impact in global markets.

About Innovation Centre:

The IIIT-B Innovation Center, based at the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B), is a dynamic hub for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge research dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and industry, the center serves as a vital platform for transforming academic insights into practical, real-world solutions.

As a not-for-profit Section 8 company hosted by IIIT-Bangalore, the Innovation Center offers state-of-the-art incubation facilities, advanced labs, and access to expert mentorship. It supports projects across various domains, including artificial intelligence, data science, Internet of Things (IoT), and digital health. Having supported over 100 startups, the center plays a pivotal role in nurturing emerging talent and driving technological advancements, positioning itself as a key enabler of innovation and collaboration in India's tech ecosystem.

About IIIT-Bangalore 

IIIT-Bangalore is a premier institute dedicated to undergraduate and postgraduate programs specializing in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (DSAI), IT for Society, and broader fields of IT and research. Situated in the heart of Electronic City, Bengalru, it holds a prominent position in the academic landscape. IIIT-Bangalore is graded A+ by National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). IIIT-Bangalore secured the 74th position in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings for the second consecutive year, 2024 reflecting its commitment to academic excellence. The institute was ranked number 9 among India's Best Technical Universities (Private) by India Today. IIIT-Bangalore contains state-of-the-art infrastructure, eminently qualified faculty, a vibrant alumni community, cutting-edge research facilities, and close industry collaborations.

The institute’s specially designed courses make the students’ cognizant of the current technologies. Experiential learning and practices followed in the institute equip them with the tools and knowledge to solve contemporary real problems. IIIT-Bangalore has consistently achieved excellent placement records every year since its establishment in 1998, thanks to the unwavering support of the industry and the expanding pool of highly skilled alumni.

For more information about IIIT-Bangalore, visit www.iiitb.ac.in

Professor Kim Kyung-hwan, Director, Sungkyunkwan University Startup Support Foundation and Dean of the Global Startup Graduate School and Dr. Lakshmi Jagannathan, Chief Executive Officer, Innovation Centre and Executive VP, COMET Foundation, IIIT-Bangalore.