Johns Hopkins University Signs An MoU With Ajit Isaac Foundation To Bring Essential Palliative Care Services To Rural India’s TerminallyI ill

* The collaboration offers opportunities for training, research fellowships, workshops and conferences at palliative care centers managed by Ajit Isaac Foundation

Johns Hopkins University (JHU) today signed an MoU with Ajit Isaac Foundation (AIF) to provide assistance in setting up and launching palliative care centers in India. These centres will provide compassionate, dignified care to terminally ill patients in underserved regions in India, along with training and supporting community-based caregivers.

Of an estimated 8-10 million Indians who need palliative care, only 1-2% have access to it, which is significantly lower than the global average of 14%. With most palliative care centres being concentrated in urban locations, India faces a healthcare access equity issue, especially in rural areas where services are scarce. This collaboration seeks to address these disparities by expanding access to high-quality end-of-life care in underserved regions, enabling terminally ill patients to experience comfort and peace in their final stages of life.

AIF is establishing a 63-bed Palliative Care Centre in Tumkur, set to launch in early 2025. This Centre will serve as the foundation for the JHU-AIF collaboration, which aims to design and implement comprehensive training programs in palliative care, offered both online and offline, with continued mentorship support for staff. JHU will help in developing a research fellowship and designing curriculum. Additionally, AIF and JHU will jointly host workshops and conferences, both in India and internationally, to showcase the latest advancements in palliative care, fostering knowledge exchange and the adoption of best practices.

Commenting on the collaboration, Ronald J. Daniels, President, JHU said, "We are delighted to partner with AIF and are committed to bridging the healthcare divide, ensuring compassionate and dignified care for all. With colleagues in India, we will use evidence-based approaches to help healthcare providers and caregivers improve quality of life for terminally ill patients, regardless of geography or circumstances."

Ajit Isaac, Co -founder, AIF commented, “Palliative care is deeply meaningful to us, shaped by personal experiences and a commitment to addressing the significant gaps in this field. There is a pressing need for skilled personnel, infrastructure and resources to provide dignity and compassionate care to those in need at the end of life. We are excited about our collaboration with JHU, which has the potential to advance palliative care and drive equitable healthcare for all in India”.

This joint effort is an important step towards improving healthcare access to the underserved regions in rural India.

About Johns Hopkins University  

Johns Hopkins University, founded in 1876, is a world-renowned research institution based in Baltimore, Maryland, known for pioneering the concept of a modern research university in the United States. It consistently ranks among the top universities globally and leads U.S. institutions in research spending, making significant contributions across fields such as medicine, public health, engineering, and international studies. The university is home to renowned schools, including the Bloomberg School of Public Health and the School of Medicine, which are recognized for their excellence in research, education, and patient care. With a global outlook, Johns Hopkins fosters innovation, intellectual exploration, and solutions to pressing societal challenges, impacting lives worldwide. JHU recently established the Gupta-Klinsky India Institute (GKII) to deepen its collaborations with India, focusing on advancing public health, education, and innovation. 

About Ajit Isaac Foundation

Ajit Isaac Foundation (AIF) is driven by a commitment to foster a lasting and positive impact on society by addressing issues in healthcare and by creating socio-economic opportunities. The foundation is built on a framework of partnerships with organizations, recognising that those organizations are best suited to tailor solutions to their unique needs. By delegating the decision-making and resources, AIF ensures that their initiatives are not only effective but also sustainable in the long term. The Foundation has funded several projects, including the Isaac Centre for Public Health at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, Isaac Centre for Public Policy at Ashoka University and a paediatric centre in partnership with CMC Vellore. To learn more about their projects, visit www.ajitisaacfoundation.com 

Celebrating 25 Years Of Trust And Excellence; Bhima Marks The Silver Jubilee Of Its First Store In Bangalore At Dickenson Road

* Avail Exciting Anniversary Offers Across Bhima’s Exquisite Gold, Diamond, And Silver Collections

Bhima celebrates the 25th anniversary of its iconic Dickenson Road showroom, marking a quarter-century of trust, quality, and unwavering commitment to its discerning customers. Established in 1999 as the brand’s first showroom in Bangalore, this store marked the beginning of Bhima’s path to becoming a trusted name in the city, shaping the journey as it stands today. It has since become a cornerstone of Bhima’s legacy, fostering deep relationships with customers who seek exceptional craftsmanship and a personalized jewelry shopping experience.

To honor this remarkable milestone, the brand invites its customers to join the anniversary celebrations from November 22nd to 24th, 2024. Over these three days, patrons can look forward to exclusive anniversary offers wherein they can enjoy up to Rs. 500 off per gram on gold jewelry, a flat Rs. 7,000 cashback per carat on diamond jewelry along with a free gift card worth up to Rs. 1 lakh, and up to Rs. 5,000 off per kilogram on silver jewelry. In addition, customers visiting the showroom during this period will have a chance to participate in a special lucky draw, with the exciting opportunity to win two Aprilia scooters every day, adding an extra layer of celebration and gratitude for its customers’ enduring loyalty.

From weddings and anniversaries to other milestone celebrations, it has been an integral part of marking life’s most meaningful moments, solidifying its place in the hearts of the Bangalore community. As the brand celebrates this milestone, they not only honor the legacy of the past but also look forward to a future filled with promise. This legacy reflects the brands dedication to preserving tradition while embracing innovation. As Bhima looks forward, the commitment to exceptional quality, trust, and customer satisfaction will remain the guiding principles of its journey.

Join us in the celebration and enjoy exclusive offers at Bhima’s Dickenson Road showroom.

ALUCAST 2024: Leveraging Innovation & Technology For Global Competitiveness

The future of Aluminium Die-Casting will be on display at the upcoming 10th edition of ALUCAST® EXPO - the comprehensive biennial International Conference and Exhibition on Die Casting Technology where industry die-casting leaders, innovators, and manufacturers will converge to unveil the latest technically advanced products, materials, tools, equipment, and consumables.

Organized by The Aluminium Casters' Association (ALUCAST)® and produced by NürnbergMesse India, the mega expo is set to take place from December 5th to 7th, 2024, at Yashobhoomi, India International Convention & Expo Center, Dwarka, Delhi, India. The exhibition, which is the biggest industry platform in India yet, will host 200 exhibitors and over 300 brands from countries, including Thailand, Germany, USA, Spain, Italy, Austria, Japan, China and France and is expected to attract over 7000 industry visitors from 20+ countries.

Expo Highlights:

·         Live Demonstrations: Witness the latest machinery, tooling, material and technology designed to elevate productivity and efficiency tailored to meet the diverse needs of the aluminium die casting sector. As the platform where the future of aluminium die casting is shaped every two years, ALUCAST® 2024 showcases innovations defining the next generation of industry standards.

·         Technical Conference Sessions: With 2.5 days of in-depth presentations and sessions by global industry leaders, this year's conference theme, "Leveraging Innovation & Technology for Global Competitiveness," will cover advancements in semi-solid casting, AI applications, die longevity, and workforce reskilling, all key topics driving the future of die casting. Delegates can secure their seat for the technical conference on https://alucastexpo.com/conference-registration

·         Networking Hub: ALUCAST® is the ultimate platform for forging valuable connections, fostering collaborations, and shaping future innovations. The newly launched B2B meeting portal further enhances this experience by allowing attendees to pre-schedule meetings, optimizing networking opportunities throughout the expo.

·         Innovation & Design Awards: The expo will honor innovation and design through the Best Die Casting and Best Foundry Awards, recognizing excellence and creativity within the industry.

The Ultimate Opportunity for Industry Advancement

With a focus on meeting, sourcing, and presentation of the latest advancements, the expo bridges the gap between manufacturers, suppliers, OEMs, and industry experts from India and beyond. Mr. Prasan Firodia, President, The Aluminium Casters' Association (ALUCAST)® and Managing Director, Force Motors & Jaya Hind Industries remarked, "With a projected CAGR of over 8.8% from 2021 to 2026, this industry demonstrates significant potential for both innovation and expansion. Aluminium die casting, known for its versatility, serves a multitude of sectors, and ALUCAST® 2024 serves as the premier industry platform uniting stakeholders under one roof."

The growing Aluminium Die-casting industry

India’s aluminium die casting sector is a key driver in manufacturing, especially in automotive technology, with rising demand for lightweight, non-ferrous metals. India's target to double the size of its auto industry to INR 15 lakh crore by the end of 2024 demonstrates its stronghold in automotive manufacturing, driven by a booming EV market projected to grow at a 49% CAGR by 2030.

Ms. Sonia Prashar, Managing Director, Nuernbergmesse India shares, “ALUCAST® 2024 is set to redefine industry standards with an overwhelming response from the industry. Beyond the auto industry, the anticipated growth in sectors like consumer electronics, aerospace, and electrical equipment positions aluminium die casting as a cornerstone of India’s manufacturing future. Committed to innovation and business growth we warmly welcome all stakeholders to explore, learn, and engage at this transformative event and be part of the innovations shaping the industry's future”

As the aluminium die casting industry advances, this exhibition serves as a dynamic platform to explore trends, foster collaborations, and seize opportunities across sectors. Join us in shaping the future of manufacturing at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka - a state-of-the-art venue with convenient access via the Yashobhoomi metro station and proximity to the airport. 

‘Online Gaming In India: Technology, Policy, And Challenges’ Launched By NUJS

~ A first of its kind, comprehensive book on the evolving online gaming landscape ~

The National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS) has launched ‘Online Gaming in India: Technology, Policy, and Challenges’, a book edited by Prof. Dr. Shameek Sen and Prof. Dr. Lovely Dasgupta. This groundbreaking publication delves into the dynamic and rapidly expanding world of online gaming in India, offering insights into its technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and policy complexities. Featuring contributions from leading legal experts, scholars and researchers, the book provides a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping this burgeoning industry.

Through carefully curated chapters, the book explores critical topics such as the intersection of law and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, Web3, the metaverse, fantasy gaming, and a comparative analysis of global and Indian regulatory approaches. Designed for professionals, academics, and students in law, technology, and allied fields, this book serves as an essential resource for understanding the implications of this fast-growing sector. Published by Chapman & Hall, UK the book is available via Routledge’s platform for scholarly works.

The launch event, organized by NUJS’s Centre for Technology, Entertainment, and Sports Law (CTESL), included a panel discussion on the online gaming industry and its contribution to India’s economic and social development. The event was graced by Shri Vikramjit Sen, retired Justice of the Supreme Court of India and former Chairman of the Bombay Stock Exchange, and Shri Sanjib Banerjee, retired Chief Justice of the Madras and Meghalaya High Courts, as honored guests. Distinguished speakers at the event included Vikramjit Banerjee, Additional Solicitor General, Y.K Sinha, Former Chief Information Commissioner of India, Dr. Yatan Pal Singh Balhara, Professor of Psychiatry - AIIMS, New Delhi, Amrit Kiran Singh, Founder President - Skill Online Games Institute, Sudipta Bhattacharjee, Partner - Khaitan & Co., Arjya B Majumdar, Professor - Jindal Global Law School, and Jay Sayta, Technology and Gaming Lawyer.

Speaking at the launch, Justice Vikramjit Sen said, “The industry is tasked with developing new technologies and driving the growth in gaming which has tremendous potential and promise. Each chapter of this book is well-researched, addressing particular aspects of gaming in India and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. I was also impressed by the Index of the book which doesn’t always get time and effort but is probably one of the most important elements of a well-researched book. Beautifully printed and thoughtfully compiled, the authors have done an excellent job. Anyone with even a remote interest in this industry will find it to be a go-to resource. Congratulations to all involved.”

Mr. Amrit Kiran Singh, added, “This is a nascent industry with a mammoth potential for good for the Indian economy. This book in conjunction with the ‘Skill-Chance Framework’ developed by Dr. Bimal Roy of the Indian Statistical Institute gives the regulators both data and tools that will help them create better regulations. For example, there is talk of the Online Gaming Industry being split up into E-Sports, Video Games, Real Money Games and Free to Play Games. This will be against the ‘Ease of doing business’ being promoted by the Modi government and will be a disaster. Similarly, the Skill and Chance Framework now gives the government the tool they need to regulate effectively and simply. I take this opportunity to thank NUJS and Dr. Bimal Roy. These two developments will be a big help to the regulators.”

Published in the UK, ‘Online Gaming in India: Technology, Policy, and Challenges’, is available across the world, and can be accessed at https://www.routledge.com/Online-Gaming-in-India-Technology-Policy-and-Challenges/Dasgupta-Sen/p/book/9781032619194

About Centre for Technology, Entertainment, and Sports Law (CTESL), NUJS

The Centre for Technology, Entertainment, and Sports Law (CTESL) is India’s first-of-its-kind academic research centre, established at the West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS), Kolkata; under the guidance of Dr. Shameek Sen and the patronage of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nirmal Kanti Chakrabarti. CTESL aims to drive serious academic research in Technology, Entertainment, and Sports Law, hosting lectures, symposia, workshops, and training programs to equip participants with cutting edge knowledge in these fields. It proudly stands as India’s pioneering academic contributor to these specialized areas of study.

About National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS)

The National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS) is one of India's premier law schools, located in Kolkata, West Bengal. Founded in 1999, NUJS is recognized for its rigorous academic programs, influential faculty, and emphasis on both theoretical and practical aspects of legal education. The university offers undergraduate (B.A./B.Sc. LL.B.) and postgraduate (LL.M.) degrees, as well as doctoral programs, with a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, legal research, and professional ethics. Known for producing some of the country's top legal minds, the institution's alumni have gone on to excel in judiciary, academia, corporate law, and public service, making significant contributions to the Indian legal system.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education To Host The 17th All India Conference of Chinese Studies

The China Study Centre (CSC) of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is set to host the prestigious 17th All India Conference of Chinese Studies (AICCS), a flagship event of the Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS), from 21st to 23rd November 2024 at TMA Pai Hall, Manipal.

This year’s conference, themed “Understanding China in a Turbulent World: Geopolitical Contestation and Cooperation”, will bring together distinguished speakers, including veterans from the armed forces, international trade experts, and academics from leading universities. Over 30 students and research scholars will present insightful papers, contributing to the understanding of India-China relations and broader geopolitical dynamics.

The inaugural session on Thursday, 21st November will be addressed by the Vice Chancellor of MAHE, Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd) and Chairman of the China Study Centre, Dr. Seshadri Chari, Conveners Dr. V. Anand and Dr. Amrita Jash and the Director of ICS Prof. Alka Acharya. Prof. Madhavan K. Palat will give the keynote address.

The two-and-a-half-day conference will include orientation sessions and an informative lecture by an eminent scholar, offering in-depth insights into the complex dynamics of India-China relations. The valedictory session on 23rd November will feature a special address by Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi, Director General of the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and Director of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The event is expected to attract more than 150 participants, including scholars, faculty members, students, and industry professionals from various institutions across the country. A compendium featuring the conference's proceedings, including articles, papers, and speeches, will be published following the event, further contributing to academic discourse.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

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.

Southern states Continue To See A Rise In Pancreatic Cancer Cases; Experts Urge Public For Early Screening And Treatment

·         To address this health concern, experts at JIPMER Puducherry have innovated a new robotic-assisted surgery technique to perform pancreatic cancer surgeries more effectively

On World Pancreatic Cancer Day, health experts are sounding the alarm as pancreatic cancer cases continue to rise sharply across southern India. According to recent statistics from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the incidence of pancreatic cancer in southern states has increased by 30% over the past decade, with nearly 50,000 new cases diagnosed annually in India. This alarming trend places a significant burden on the healthcare ecosystem, highlighting the urgent need for early screening and effective treatment options.

Pancreatic cancer, known for its high mortality rate, is often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to subtle early symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, and unexplained weight loss. Risk factors prevalent in southern India, including high incidence of chronic pancreatitis, smoking, obesity, diabetes and a diet high in fats and carbohydrates, contribute to the increasing incidence. In response to this urgent health crisis, Dr. Kalayarasan, a leading robotic surgeon at JIPMER, has developed a ground-breaking robotic surgery technique that offers enhanced precision and reduced risk of complications for patients undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer.

The newly standardized robotic surgery technique utilizes advanced da Vinci robotic system, allowing surgeons to perform the complex pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with remarkable accuracy. The precise and systematic vascular control technique innovated by the leading robotic surgeon minimizes blood loss and significantly improves R0 resection rates, ensuring complete tumor removal. Dr. Kalayarasan emphasized the benefits of this technique, stating, “This approach allows us to navigate complex anatomical structures with unparalleled precision. Patients experience less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recoveries, making this technique a vital option for those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, the precision of da Vinci technology significantly reduces the risk of complications, which is crucial for improving overall patient outcomes.”

A recent case exemplifies the life-saving potential of this new technique. A 58-year-old patient diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer in the background of chronic pancreatitis underwent robotic surgery, resulting in complete tumour resection. Remarkably, the patient was able to return home within just five days with early initiation of adjuvant chemotherapy, highlighting the transformative impact of this technology.

“On this World Pancreatic Cancer Day, it is essential to raise awareness about this aggressive disease and the innovative solutions emerging to combat it. The advancements made through robotic surgery at JIPMER represent a beacon of hope for patients and their families, underscoring the importance of ongoing research, early detection, and improved treatment options,” Dr. Kalayarasan added.

JIPMER is the backbone of the government hospital ecosystem in the southern part of India, seeing a major footfall from surrounding states. Approximately 60% of patients who undergo robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) procedures at JIPMER are from Tamil Nadu, while 30% come from other southern states. As a central government hospital equipped to handle critical cases, JIPMER receives numerous referrals from surrounding cities. The hospital has successfully performed over 100 surgeries for pancreatic cancer using this advanced robotic technique. This milestone reflects JIPMER’s commitment to high-quality care and positions it as a leader in innovative cancer treatment in the region.

India Leads The Way: Nearly Half Of Workers Identified As Advanced AI Users, Says Atlassian Research

* The AI Collaboration Index reveals AI is saving Indian workers on average almost two hours a day

Atlassian, a global leader in team collaboration and productivity software, has launched its latest research report, the AI Collaboration Index. The report highlights that nearly half (46%) of Indian knowledge workers are advanced users of AI, significantly outpacing their counterparts in regions such as the US (34%), Germany (32%), France (26%), and Australia (23%).

The report, commissioned by Atlassian’s Teamwork Lab, surveyed 5,000 knowledge workers across India, the US, Australia, Germany, and France. It outlines four stages of AI collaboration - from basic adoption as a simple tool (stage 1) to advanced usage as a strategic partner and decision-making advisor (stage 4).

Even at the earliest stages of AI adoption, Indian knowledge workers are experiencing significant productivity gains. In India, those using AI as a simple tool (stage 1) report saving an average of 104 minutes per day, compared to the global average of around 45 minutes. This jumps to a whopping 127 minutes per day for strategic AI collaborators (stage 4), equivalent to more than an extra workday each week.

Jamil Valliani, Head of Product (AI), Atlassian said, “To unlock the full potential of AI, it is not enough for companies to simply deploy AI tools. They also need to give their employees room to experiment. At Atlassian, we have provided AI tools and LLMs in a secure environment to enable this. Employees have been able to use these building blocks to create AI solutions tailored to their team’s needs, accelerating adoption. All that is needed is a little time and willingness to experiment. Teams should feel encouraged and empowered to integrate AI as a strategic partner in their work.”

Additional Key Findings from India:

AI Mindset: As workers progress in AI maturity, the benefits of their investment become increasingly evident. An impressive 92% of strategic AI collaborators (stages 3 and 4) report that the time they dedicate to learning and using AI has been well worth it.

Effectiveness & Work Quality: Strategic AI collaborators not only complete tasks faster but also achieve higher-quality results. According to the research, 96% of these advanced users see a marked improvement in their work quality through co-creation with AI.

Leadership’s Role: Leadership plays a pivotal role in fostering AI adoption. Indian organizations that encourage experimentation and provide a safe space for employees to explore AI without fear of failure see better outcomes. Among advanced AI users, 87% credit their leadership for creating an environment that supports innovation and experimentation with AI tools.

While most research that focuses on AI adoption, Atlassian’s AI Collaboration Index goes further, exploring how people perceive AI’s role in the workplace and its transformative impact on how we work. The report emphasizes the need for a mindset shift to unlock AI’s full potential - transitioning from seeing AI as just a tool to embracing it as a collaborative teammate, capable of driving innovation. This shift is crucial for Indian organizations to fully capitalize on AI’s opportunities.

For further details around the report, please visit the blog: https://www.atlassian.com/blog/productivity/ai-collaboration-report.

About Atlassian

Atlassian unleashes the potential of every team. Our agile & DevOps, IT service management and work management software helps teams organize, discuss, and complete shared work. The majority of the Fortune 500 and over 300,000 companies of all sizes worldwide - including NASA, Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys and Salesforce - rely on our solutions to help their teams work better together and deliver quality results on time. Learn more about our products, including Jira, Confluence and Loom at https://atlassian.com.