IN-SPACe Introduces Model Rocketry Workshop To Inspire Young Innovators

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe), in collaboration with the Astronautical Society of India (ASI) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), has launched the IN-SPACe Model Rocketry India Student Competition 2024-25 to create awareness and inspire technological talent in the field of rocketry among Indian students. This initiative supports the growth of a skilled STEM workforce with a specific emphasis on space technology.

The event, aimed at promoting innovation and technical expertise, has drawn participation from 86 student teams nationwide. After thorough evaluation and design reviews, 55 teams have advanced to attend the "Essentials of Model Rocketry Workshop," held in partnership with the Indian Air Force. The workshop is hosted at Air Force Station, Jalahalli (West), Bengaluru, from November 9 to 15, 2024.

The workshop was inaugurated by esteemed Chief Guest Padma Shri Dr. B N Suresh, Chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST). Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director, PD, IN-SPACe, Executive Secretary ASI who has conceptualized the Model Rocketry Workshop and other nationwide student competitions briefed the gathering on the workshop curriculum and importance of Model Rocketry.

Participants from all over the country will get a chance to gain a deep understanding of the fundamental principles behind model rocket design, propulsion systems, deployment and separation mechanisms, and mission design from industry leaders and academia from ISRO, VSSC, NGEs and IIST.

The inaugural session was also graced by AVM Premkumar Krishnaswami VM VSM, Commandant of the Weapon Systems School; Air Cmde Santhosh KP Hegde, AOC, AFS, Jalahalli; and Gp Capt. Santhosh Kumar Vayakodan, CO, CTI, AFS, Jalahalli.

Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director, PD, IN-SPACe said, “This unique workshop will help to ignite the passion for space exploration among young people by giving them an insight into rocketry and space technology. The workshop has been envisioned to encourage children to learn and innovate through practical sessions. We believe that empowering these young innovators today will lead to their contributing to India's journey to a leadership position in the global space arena."

“As an Aerospace Combatant, I understand and recognize the importance of nurturing young minds for the future growth of space technologies. The aim of this workshop is to instill a culture of innovation and critical thinking, and inspire our youth to pursue a career in aerospace engineering, thereby contributing to our nation’s growth in this domain,” said Air Vice Marshal Premkumar Krishnaswamy

This unique collaboration between IN-SPACe, ASI, ISRO, and the Air Force highlights India's commitment to building a new generation of space enthusiasts and innovators.

About IN-SPACe:                                                                        

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) is an autonomous nodal agency under Department of Space, Government of India formed on 24 June 2020 to promote, enable, authorize and supervise non-government entities (NGE) to undertake space activities. These activities include manufacturing of launch vehicles and satellites, providing space-based services, establishing a ground station, sharing of space infrastructure & facilities; and establishing new facilities under DOS.

IN-SPACe is currently functioning with three directorates viz., Promotion Directorate (PD), Technical Directorate (TD) and Program Management and Authorization Directorate (PMAD) and Legal, Finance and Administration Wing with its headquarters at Ahmedabad.  

Taneira And JJ Active Host An Exhilarating Experience With A Saree Run In Bengaluru

~ Ignites transformative empowerment with over 9000 women ~

This Sunday, Taneira, a Tata product, joined forces with Bengaluru-based fitness company JJ Active to host a fun morning run. With a congregation of 9000 women draped in a diverse range of exquisite weaves from across the country, Shalini Grounds in Jayanagar turned into a spectacular vision of colour, camaraderie and community. A powerful celebration of feminity, fitness and freedom, the Bengaluru Chapter of the Taneira Saree Run was flagged off by Mr. Tejasvi Surya, MP from Bangalore South, Mr. Ambuj Narayan, CEO of Taneira, and Coach Pramod from JJ Active.

Much like the spirit of the modern woman, the Taneira Saree Run reinforces the saree as a canvas of endless possibilities, holding together its traditional roots while adapting to the myriad novelties of modern living. A meaningful celebration of this versatility of the six yards and its wearers, it not only highlights the saree as a medium of self-expression that transcends boundaries and resonates across diverse settings but also brings forth the relevance of the saree in the contemporary context. The event serves as a powerful statement, integrating empowerment with well-being, encouraging women from all walks of life to break the mould, shatter inhibitions and express themselves confidently.

Building on successful runs in cities like Pune, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, the event fosters a deeper connection among women catapulting the saree from a mere garment to a common thread upon which women weave together stories of resilience, individuality and accomplishment, honouring the diverse narratives that shapes their lives.

Speaking at the event, Mr. C.K Venkataraman, MD, Titan Company limited, said “Titan’s legacy is built on the fusion of innovation and tradition, and the Taneira Saree Run beautifully embodies this spirit. Much like our timepieces that symbolize precision and timelessness, the Saree Run celebrates the enduring beauty, power and relevance of the saree for centuries—a symbol of tradition that continues to empower women today. The event is a reflection of our commitment to honoring womanhood in all its diversity, and creating opportunities for women to come together, celebrate their strength and embrace the values of tradition in a modern world all while promoting women’s health, inclusivity and empowerment.”

Speaking at the event, Mr. Ambuj Narayan, CEO of Taneira, said, “The Taneira Saree Run embodies our commitment to celebrating the strength and spirit of womanhood. By reimagining the saree as a vibrant symbol of liberation and individuality, we invite women to embrace their heritage while confidently expressing who they are. Our partnership with JJ Active amplifies this vision, demonstrating how the saree seamlessly integrates into a dynamic lifestyle. The event fosters a vivacious community, showcasing the transformative potential that arise when we come together in solidarity while exploring new horizons.”

Coach Pramod from JJ Active shared, “The Saree Run started in Bengaluru eight years ago. With Taneira’s support over the past two years, it has grown from a local run to a national movement. Today, the Taneira Saree Run is proof that women can celebrate their unique styles while focusing on health, empowerment, and well-being.”

Fostering Collaboration & Knowledge Exchange With Global Experts To Win Over Cancer

The 7th edition of the Apollo Cancer Conclave, being organized by Apollo Cancer Centers, Mumbai began today and is being attended by over 2,000 Oncologists with over 400 faculty from leading national and international institutions, cancer care experts and  researchers. The event focuses on discussing the latest advances and innovations in cancer care, navigating the evolving landscape from contemporary treatments to precision oncology.

Being held from November 8th to 10th, the conclave provides a dynamic platform for healthcare professionals to engage in panel discussions, workshops, and research presentations. The keynote and the many sessions offer invaluable insights into both established and emerging cancer care treatments and management strategies.

With seven organ-specific scientific tracks, more than 100 sessions, and numerous interactive discussions, the Apollo Cancer Conclave is firmly established as the cornerstone event in oncology. It is now a key fixture on the healthcare calendar for oncology specialists dedicated to combating cancer more effectively and empathetically.

Dr. Elisabete Weiderpass, Director of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) at the World Health Organization, remarked, “IARC’s 2022 estimates show that the global cancer burden is projected to rise from 20 million new cases in 2022 to 35 million by 2050, primarily impacting low- and middle-income countries. In India, the cancer burden is expected to rise from 1.41 million new cases in 2022 to 2.69 million in 2050. With this alarming prediction, prevention has become the key response to the cancer epidemic. Initiatives like the Apollo Cancer Conclave 2024 offer an invaluable platform to raise awareness among local experts. At IARC, our vision is a world where fewer people develop cancer, and this requires proactive, evidence-based strategies in prevention and early detection. The Conclave has been a remarkable opportunity to share these strategies and strengthen our collective mission.”

Ms. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, stated, “Apollo Hospitals was founded with a vision to deliver healthcare of global standards. We continue that legacy by revolutionizing cancer care through new benchmarks, advanced technologies, and innovative treatments, ensuring better outcomes for a wider audience. With over 390 oncologists across 22 Apollo Cancer Centres, we deliver compassionate, patient-centric care, benchmarked against the best globally. The inauguration of the Apollo Cancer Conclave highlights our commitment to bringing the highest standards of healthcare to the people of India and the world.”

Mr. Dinesh Madhavan, President of Group Oncology & International at Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “As we delve deeper into the evolving field of oncology, it’s critical to recognize the groundbreaking innovations emerging worldwide. Significant advancements in early cancer detection are on the horizon, and with our well-trained clinicians and cutting-edge technologies, we continue to reshape the oncology landscape. Today, cancer care means providing comprehensive, 360-degree support. By keeping pace with technological advancements in cancer management and treatment, Apollo Cancer Centres remains at the forefront of this transformative journey, serving 3.5 billion people across 147 countries.”

Dr. Anil D’cruz, Director of Oncology Services at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, commented, “The Apollo Cancer Conclave has become a highly anticipated event within the global oncology community, bringing together thought leaders, practitioners, and researchers dedicated to transforming cancer care. Our goal is to inspire, challenge, and collectively advance cancer treatment through knowledge-sharing and collaboration. This year’s focus on precision oncology underscores the shift toward more tailored, patient-centric approaches to cancer treatment, ultimately improving the quality of life for every patient battling cancer.”

The Conclave is featuring a wide range of sessions covering various areas of oncology, including breast, gynecology, gastrointestinal, head and neck, uro-oncology, and hematolymphoid cancers. With keynote addresses, interactive panels, and real-time case discussions, the event will highlight the transformative potential of technology and precision medicine in cancer care, emphasizing patient-centric innovations.

One of the Conclave's major announcements on the first day was the introduction of Apollo’s new Breast Cancer Care guidelines, which are set to redefine how breast cancer is managed across India.

The Apollo Cancer Conclave 2024 sets the stage for continued advancements in cancer care, establishing new benchmarks in precision oncology, robotics, AI-based patient care, and clinical collaboration. This year’s event exemplifies Apollo’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of oncology and reinforces its role as a global leader in transforming cancer care.

#WinningOverCancer

About Apollo Cancer Centres – https://apollocancercentres.com/

THE CANCER CARE LEGACY: BREATHING HOPE INTO LIVES FOR OVER 40 YEARS

Cancer care today means 360-degree comprehensive care, which requires commitment, expertise, and an indomitable spirit from cancer specialists.

Apollo Cancer Centres has a network across India with over 390 oncologists to oversee the delivery of high-end precision Oncology Therapy. Our oncologists deliver world-class cancer care following an organ-based practice under competent Cancer Management Teams. This helps us in delivering exemplary treatment to the patient in an environment that has consistently delivered an international standard of clinical outcomes.

Today, people from 147 countries come to India for cancer treatment at Apollo Cancer Centre. With the first and only Pencil Beam Proton Therapy Centre in South Asia & Middle East, Apollo Cancer Centres has all that is needed to win over cancer.

KALP Decentra Foundation Welcomes Global Strategy Veteran Abhilash Puljal To Accelerate Worldwide Digital Transformation

KALP Decentra Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing global digital infrastructure and literacy, today announced the appointment of Abhilash Puljal as Director – Global Affairs. With over two decades of experience in international strategy and economic development, Puljal brings crucial expertise to strengthen Kalp's mission of democratizing digital technology access worldwide.

"Abhilash's engagement marks a pivotal moment for Kalp Decentra Foundation. His extensive experience in fostering international collaborations and implementing transformative projects across developing nations perfectly aligns with our vision of creating an inclusive digital future," said Tapan Sangal, Director, Kalp Decentra Foundation.

Puljal's impressive track record includes leading Abhilash Puljal & Co., a boutique advisory firm, and serving as the Founder and Director of the LSE India Foundation. His expertise in building sustainable partnerships between governments, international organizations, and technology sectors will be instrumental in advancing Kalp's global digital literacy initiatives.

The Kalp Decentra Foundation will leverage Puljal's extensive experience with organizations including the African Development Bank, World Bank, European Union, and USAID to accelerate digital transformation across low and middle-income nations. His proven ability to facilitate cross-border collaborations will be crucial in implementing Kalp's vision of a digitally empowered world.

"The future of global development lies in democratizing digital access and literacy," said Abhilash Puljal. "Kalp Decentra Foundation's innovative approach to creating inclusive digital infrastructure aligns perfectly with the needs of developing nations. I am excited to contribute to this transformation and help bridge the digital divide across communities worldwide."

In his role as Director of Global Affairs at Kalp Decentra Foundation, Puljal will spearhead Kalp's global initiatives by fostering strategic partnerships with governments and international organizations. His mandate encompasses building sustainable digital infrastructure across emerging economies while promoting digital inclusion in underserved regions. Through his extensive network, Puljal will establish collaborative frameworks that facilitate knowledge transfer and accelerate technological adoption worldwide. His strategic vision and implementation expertise will be instrumental in cementing Kalp's position as a global leader in digital transformation, particularly in regions where technology access can create the most significant social impact.

About Abhilash Puljal

A distinguished strategy advisor with over 20 years of experience, Puljal has been instrumental in implementing transformative projects worldwide. His notable work includes catalyzing the India-Zanzibar Skill Development Partnership, Ask Indus Global initiatives and EU-India collaborations. His expertise in fostering international partnerships within multiple countries in the Global South has been crucial along with the successful formulation of numerous projects with the African Development Bank, European Union, UN World Food Programme, USAID, and the World Bank, demonstrating his ability to bridge global stakeholders for impactful development initiatives.

About Kalp Decentra Foundation

The Kalp Decentra Foundation is a not-for-profit organization committed to driving worldwide digital transformation through innovative technology solutions and infrastructure. The Foundation focuses on empowering communities through digital literacy, establishing secure technological frameworks, and fostering global collaborations to create an inclusive digital future for all.

Commissioner Inaugurates 'Bengaluru Police Eye Care Project' in Collaboration with Nethradhama, Shraddha Eye Trust, & Rotary Blr

·         Marking the First of Many Initiatives to Support the Eye Health of Bengaluru Police Personnel and Their Families

·         Over the course of this program, more than 20,000 officers and their families will benefit from thorough eye screenings and follow-up care.

In a significant move to prioritize the well-being of Bengaluru's police force and their families, Police Commissioner Shri B. Dayananda inaugurated the Bengaluru Police Eye Care Project 2024 at the CAR South Adugodi Parade Ground. The project, created in partnership with Nethradhama Superspeciality Eye Hospital, Shraddha Eye Care Trust, and Rotary Bangalore Prime, aims to support eye health within the police community, addressing a critical yet often overlooked need.

This program offers comprehensive eye screenings to Bengaluru Police officers and their families, with a focus on early detection and timely treatment. Leveraging state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, the project ensures officers and their loved ones receive continuous eye health monitoring. For those identified with specific eye conditions, treatment will be available at Nethradhama Superspeciality Eye Hospital. Additionally, Shraddha Eye Care Trust will provide free surgical care to those without Arogya Bhagya Yojane Cover, ensuring everyone receives essential care.

Shri B. Dayananda, Bengaluru Police Commissioner, highlighted the unique demands faced by the police force, “Our officers work under difficult, often high-stress conditions to maintain public safety. Ensuring their health, particularly their eye health, is not only beneficial to them but essential for our community. This project reflects our commitment to providing officers and their families with the health support they deserve, which will allow them to serve Bengaluru even more effectively.”

Prof. Dr. Sri Ganesh, Managing Trustee of Shraddha Eye Care Trust and Chairman and Managing Director of Nethradhama Eye Hospital, emphasized the holistic approach of this initiative, “Our police force dedicates their lives to protect us, often at a cost to their own health and their families’ needs. Vision health, in particular, can go overlooked until it becomes critical. We’re honored to support both officers and their families, ensuring they have access to screenings and treatment that prioritize their long-term well-being and quality of life. By including families, we address an often-neglected aspect of police welfare, recognizing that the health of our officers and their loved ones are closely intertwined.”

Dr. Savitha Arun, Director and Medical Superintendent of Nethradhama Super speciality Eye Hospital was also present at the event.

CA Rtn Harish VS, President of Rotary Bangalore Prime, expressed Rotary’s commitment to community support, “This initiative reflects Rotary’s mission to serve those who serve us. By focusing on preventive care, we are helping our police officers stay healthy and prepared for the demands of their roles. Extending this care to their families also reinforces our belief that strong communities start with healthy, supported individuals.”

As a pilot, the success of this project will serve as a model for expanding similar programs across other CAR camps in Bengaluru. Future plans include extending this initiative to other public service officers, ensuring that all personnel have timely access to eye care, ultimately enhancing both their health and operational efficiency in service to the community.

Bangalore On IT, A Public Lecture By Dr. Vivek Raghavan, Co-Founder, Sarvam.Ai At IIIT-Bangalore

The International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore organized its annual Public Lecture series "Bangalore on IT" on November 6, 2024, at IIIT-Bangalore.

This year's guest speaker was Dr. Vivek Raghavan, Co-Founder, Sarvam.AI. He spoke on the topic "Building Generative AI for a Billion Voices."

Bangalore on IT is a public Lecture series of IIIT-Bangalore and it is an annual series. Originally launched in the institute's early years, the ‘Bangalore on IT’ was relaunched in January 2019. The series aims to bridge academia, industry, and the public by bringing in eminent thought leaders working at the forefront of research and technology. We aim to foster innovation and inspire the next generation of tech leaders.  Through these lectures, our community gains valuable insights from experts addressing today’s most pressing technological advancements and challenges. ‘Bangalore On IT’ is more than just a technical platform; it's a space to explore the societal implications of technology.

“We are happy to host Dr. Vivek Raghavan, Co-founder of Sarvam.AI, at this year’s "Bangalore On IT", public lecture series. His groundbreaking work in developing generative AI for India's multilingual landscape is not only pioneering but also essential in shaping the future of technology for a billion voices. Dr. Raghavan’s insights into training AI models with diverse datasets and his dedication to advancing Indian language AI are truly inspiring and align with our vision of fostering innovation through inclusive technology” said Prof. Debrabrata Das, Director, IIIT-Bangalore.

"Addressing young minds at the Bangalore on IT public lecture by IIIT-Bangalore is an opportunity to share Sarvam AI's mission of building Generative AI for a billion voices. This is truly a thoughtful event, and our work focuses on creating accessible, inclusive AI for every Indian by curating high-quality, diverse data and developing foundational models that reflect India’s linguistic diversity. Through our Indian language voice initiatives, we aim to demonstrate how AI can address nation-scale challenges and empower voices across the country” said Dr. Vivek Raghavan, Co-Founder, Sarvam.Ai.

In an inspiring session attended by over 600 people, Dr. Vivek Raghavan, co-founder of Sarvam AI, captivated the audience with his insights into the transformative potential of generative AI and foundational AI technologies for Indian languages. At 'Bangalore on IT' public lecture series hosted by IIIT-Bangalore, Dr. Raghavan broke down the complexities of generative AI, discussing how advancements in this field are set to revolutionize industries, government initiatives, and everyday life in India. His lecture also highlighted Sarvam AI's pivotal work in creating language models tailored to India's diverse linguistic landscape, promising broader digital inclusivity and accessibility for Indian communities. This landmark event brought together technology enthusiasts, students, and professionals, each eager to explore the future of AI through Dr. Raghavan's expert lens.

About the Speaker: Dr. Vivek Raghavan is a visionary entrepreneur and technologist, recognized for his instrumental role in developing Digital Public Goods and Infrastructure in India. An alumnus of IIT Delhi with a Masters and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, Dr. Vivek’s journey spans from pioneering technology in Electronic Design Automation to leading impactful projects in India. He served as Chief Project Manager and Biometric Architect for UIDAI, scaling India’s Unique Identity Program. Currently, he leads Sarvam AI, a Generative AI startup dedicated to enhancing lives through AI applications in Indian languages. As a mentor to initiatives like AI4Bharat, the Bhashini mission, and OpenNyAI, Dr. Vivek continues to drive AI innovation for India’s diverse linguistic and legal landscapes.

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, Bengaluru, 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

Thums Up Teases The Most Epic Partnership Of The Year With Actor Allu Arjun

Thums Up, India’s iconic homegrown brand, synonymous with bold toofani spirit recently launched an electrifying teaser featuring the unmistakable silhouette of Allu Arjun. With this bold move, the brand has set off a wave of excitement, leaving fans eager to see what’s coming next. This teaser release comes on the heels of the much-anticipated trailer for Pushpa 2, sparking curiosity around the role Thums Up will play alongside the film’s high-energy momentum.

The teaser not only taps into Allu Arjun’s massive fan base but also strengthens Thums Up’s connection with consumers who resonate with its fearless and adventurous spirit. Sumeli Chatterjee, Category Head – Sparkling Flavours, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia, shared, “We’re continuously crafting stories that keep our fans at the edge of their seats, and Thums Up’s campaigns are all about delivering that perfectly timed thrill. Whether it’s launching a new partnership or tapping into fan-favourite moments, we’re here to bring something bold and memorable to our consumers. This journey with Allu Arjun is just the latest chapter—stay tuned, there’s much more in store!”

With suspense hanging in the air, Thums Up is set to launch a mind-blowing experience that captures the essence of its bold and adventurous spirit!

About Coca-Cola:

Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’ offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Charged by Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and Honest Tea. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca GlucoCharge, Smartwater, Kinley, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water and Kinley Club Soda.

Premium products constitute Schweppes and Smartwater. In addition, it offers a Costa Coffee range of tea and coffee. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.

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

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