MAHE Wins Prestigious “CII Industry Academia Partnership Award 2024” In Platinum Category

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has been honored with the esteemed “CII Industry Academia Partnership Award 2024” in the platinum category. The award was conferred at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Annual Summit on Technology, Intellectual Property, and Industry-Academia Partnerships, held on 12th December 2024 at The Lalit, New Delhi.

The award honors MAHE's outstanding contributions to innovation, advancing knowledge for long-term solutions to global issues, and creating significant relationships between academics and industry.

At the esteemed occasion, Dr. Raviraja N. S., MAHE's Chief Operating Officer, MAHE, and Dr. Harish Kumar S., MAHE's Director of Corporate Relations, accepted the award on behalf of MAHE.

Mr. Shrinidhi Kamath, Assistant Director, MAHE, Manipal, and Dr. S. Varadharajan, Coordinator of Intellectual Property Rights and the Technology Transfer Office, were also part of MAHE delegation.

Lt Gen (Dr) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice-Chancellor, MAHE, said: "This CII recognition further solidifies MAHE's standing as a leader in creating significant industry-academia partnerships. At MAHE, we have always aimed to build an academic-industry bridge that encourages creativity and provides practical answers to urgent problems. This honor is a tribute to our partners, instructors, and students who have put in countless hours to realize this goal. We are still dedicated to fostering collaborations that strengthen sectors, increase knowledge, and enhance the welfare of society”.

The CII Industry Academia Partnership Award honors academic institutions that effectively cultivate close ties with businesses, fostering technological advancement and research commercialization. Initiatives including innovative intellectual property development, state-of-the-art research partnerships, and a strong technology transfer ecosystem are all part of MAHE's efforts in this area.

This acknowledgement marks a critical turning point for MAHE and strengthens its position as a pioneer in fostering information sharing and cooperative growth.

India Sees Massive 1162% Surge In RCS Interactions And 113% Growth On WhatsApp This Black Friday: Infobip’s Data

* During the Cyber Week period, spanning November 29 to December 2, communication interactions on RCS grew by 542.59% and WhatsApp by 111.14%

Global communications platform Infobip has reported record-breaking communications interactions during Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Cyber Week. India has emerged as a key growth market for Rich Communication Services (RCS) and WhatsApp interactions, underscoring the rising importance of conversational experiences. Globally, the platform recorded 3.4bn interactions on Black Friday – a 26% increase – with Cyber Week (Friday, 29 Nov to Monday, 2 December) witnessing a remarkable 41% surge, compared to last year.

This Black Friday marked a seismic shift in how Indian consumers prefer to engage with brands. RCS interactions surged  by an extraordinary 1162%, while WhatsApp engagement grew by 113%, proving that conversational channels are now a must-have for brands. Cyber Monday data for India also mirrored similar growth trajectories as WhatsApp interactions grew by 74.7%, while RCS interactions surged by 1455.2%. The momentum continued, with RCS growing by 542.59% and WhatsApp by 111.14% during Cyber Week.

Offering enhanced multimedia capabilities, RCS is enabling businesses to connect with customers in a way that is more engaging and hyper-personalized. Globally, RCS interactions on Black Friday increased by 394% with an impressive 349% rise during Cyber Week compared to last year, solidifying its role as a fastest growing channel for retailers worldwide. Infobip further reveals that, in this year’s Black Friday, Retail & eCommerce and Finance industries are among the top 5 sectors driving interactions on its platform, recording year-on-year growth of 42% and 35%, respectively.

Harsha Solanki, VP GM - Asia, Infobip, said, “This Black Friday and Cyber Monday, we saw a four-fold increase in RCS interactions in India – a testament to the growing preference for conversational engagement. As customers demand more meaningful and seamless experiences, RCS has proven to be a game-changer, driving sales, offering end-to-end journeys, and enhancing customer satisfaction throughout the shopping period. In today’s cost-conscious and digitally-driven market, adopting RCS is not just an option – it's essential for businesses looking to stay ahead and meet the evolving needs of their customers.”

About Infobip

Infobip is a global cloud communications platform that enables businesses to build connected experiences across all stages of the customer journey. Accessed through a single platform, Infobip’s omnichannel engagement, identity, user authentication and contact centre solutions help businesses and partners overcome the complexity of consumer communications to grow business and increase loyalty. It offers natively built technology with the capacity to reach over seven billion mobile devices and ‘things’ in 6 continents connected to over 9,700+ connections of which 800+ are direct operator connections. Infobip was established in 2006 and is led by its co-founders, CEO Silvio Kuti, Roberto Kuti and Izabel Jeleni.

Overwhelming Response To ‘EmBossed Imprints’ Authored By Sundararaman Ganpathiraman Of Wipro

Following the successful book launch, “EmBbossed Imprints” authored by Sundararaman Ganapatiraman, the highly respected Co-CEO of Wipro Pari , continues to inspire leaders worldwide with groundbreaking insights on leadership, decision-making, and organizational growth. Since its release last week, the book has already received widespread praise from industry leaders, executives, and readers alike for its practical wisdom and actionable strategies. Amazon has ranked it at Number 14 in its “Hot New Releases” under the Business & Economic Category.

The book offers a masterclass on leadership, drawing from the author’s over three decades of experience and expertise in industrial automation, manufacturing, and global business leadership. Sundararaman Ganapathiraman has successfully led multi- functional teams across continents. His strategic vision has driven several successful mergers, acquisitions, and the organic growth of manufacturing industries globally. The book has been lauded for its deep dive into how to lead with integrity, foster innovation, and build high-performing teams.

"EmBossed Imprints" is a transformative journey through the world of leadership, inviting you to reflect on your own experiences and discover the exceptional qualities that have shaped your career. Based on a 35-year career in the industrial world, this book offers a unique blend of personal anecdotes and practical insights, empowering you to identify and develop your own leadership potential.

Through 26 dedicated worksheets, you'll explore a wide range of leadership traits, from authenticity to zeal, and discover how they've been exemplified by those around you. By reflecting on your own experiences and learning from the inspiring stories of others, you'll gain a deeper understanding of leadership and unlock your own potential to make a lasting impact.

With a focus on self-discovery and personal growth, "EmBossed Imprints" is a must-read for anyone seeking to enhance their leadership skills and become the best version of themselves.

Blue Dart’s “Merry Express” Delivers Festive Cheer With Special Discounts On Domestic And International Shipments

* Offer valid from 15 December 2024 to 15 January 2025.

Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asia's premier express-air, integrated transportation, and distribution logistics company, is ushering in the holiday season with its "Merry Express" offer. Available from 15th December 2024 to 15th January 2025, this festive offer provides customers with discounted rates on domestic and international shipments, ensuring gifts reach loved ones in time for the holidays.

Customers can avail themselves of a up to 40% off on domestic shipments weighing between 2-10 kg, and up to 50% off on international shipments with specific weights ranging from 3-25 kg across India. The offer applies to both domestic priority and international shipments, with terms and conditions. As a customer-centric company, Blue Dart is committed to continuously enhancing its products and services, providing customers with added value during this festive season. With the 'Merry Express' offer, customers can send festive gifts to over 56,000 locations across India and 220 countries and territories worldwide. The company leverages advanced technology and automation to ensure the speed, safety, and reliability of each delivery, consistently providing excellence at every touchpoint.

"We are excited to offer this special promotion as part of our ongoing commitment to delivering joy and ensuring seamless experiences for our customers during the festive season," said Dipanjan Banerjee, Chief Commercial Officer, Blue Dart. "Our Merry Express offer embodies our dedication to providing innovative solutions, speed, and reliability, making it easier for our customers to share their festive cheer with loved ones across the globe."

This limited-time offer is available at all Blue Dart retail stores and extends to home bookings with doorstep pickup at no additional cost. Customers can contact Blue Dart's Customer Care at 1860 233 1234 or email customerservice@bluedart.com. For more information or to book shipments, visit www.bluedart.com.

Abu Dhabi Is All Set To Host World Tennis League Season 3 From December 19- 23, 2024

* The thrilling world tennis league of the year to have electrifying performance from Bryan Adams, Sean Paul, Akon, and Anastacia

* Indian Tennis Player Sumit Nagal to participate in the World Tennis League-3 in Abu-Dhabi

After the conclusion of the high-octane Formula 1 racing, the fastest-growing touring destination, Abu Dhabi, is back with yet another thrilling event to treat sports lovers around the world, starting from December 19 to 23.

Come this December end, Abu Dhabi will host the third instalment of the World Tennis League (WTL) at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island. The tournament will feature 16 tennis players from various parts of the world, including India's promising player, Sumit Nagal, who will compete alongside Medvedev, Kyrgios, Rublev, Sabalenka, and others. The competition will be held among four teams: Falcons, Hawks, Eagles, and Kites.

In addition to the intense on-court action, the Etihad Arena will also witness electrifying post-match performances from renowned artists like Bryan Adams, Sean Paul, Akon, and Anastacia.

https://www.etihadarena.ae/en/world-tennis-league

That's not all!

While Yas Island offers the thrilling tennis tournament of the World Tennis League, there's more for visitors to explore. This winter, WTL visitors can also discover Sir Bani Yas Island, a desert sanctuary home to over 17,000 free-roaming animals in the Arabian Wildlife Park. Visitors can explore the island through guided wildlife safaris, participate in equestrian activities and lessons, or simply soak in nature's beauty. The island offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity, making it the perfect experience for families and nature lovers.

Meanwhile, Abu-Dhabi also offers other nature amusements with Mangrove National Park, that makes up 75% of the UAE’s mangrove forest – to stroll through diverse ecosystems of kayak through lush mangrove forests. With cooler December temperatures, it’s the perfect time to explore this natural sanctuary, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustle of holiday season.

Plan the perfect New Year’s Eve celebration in Abu Dhabi, a city brimming with experiences for everyone. Find out more on Visit Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Calendar today.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions.

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae

Motherhood Hospitals Collaborates With Decathlon To Celebrate The 3K Saree Run

* Inspiring women to embrace fitness and prioritize their health through a unique blend of tradition and wellness

Motherhood Hospitals, in collaboration with Decathlon, successfully hosted the Saree 3K Run—an inspiring initiative aimed at empowering women and promoting fitness. This unique event witnessed women from all walks of life stepping into their running shoes and completing a 3K course in traditional sarees, breaking barriers and redefining fitness norms. This unique run witnessed a participation across women from all walks of life and 250 women came together for this cause.

The Saree 3K Run not only promoted physical activity but also provided a platform as part of raising awareness around women's health and well-being. It highlighted the need for regular gynaecological screenings, HPV vaccinations for prevention of cervical cancer and addressed commonly ignored health concerns like painful periods, recurrent UTIs and miscarriages.

The run was aimed at drawing attention of women towards treating health as top priority and not hesitate from going for regular check-ups. Regular gynaecological check-ups and HPV vaccinations are emphasized as important measures for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. Other gynae issues painful periods or recurring UTIs must not be ignored & seeking immediate medical intervention to improve overall quality of life is advisable.

Dr Deepmala, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, Bangalore said, “It’s truly uplifting to see women embracing joy while wearing colourful dresses of their choice. In today's world, as women strive to meet both personal and professional demands, they often overlook their own happiness and well-being. Witnessing them enjoy some much needed 'me time' in an event like this, while raising awareness about health issues, is a source of pride for us at Motherhood Hospital. We are honoured to be part of an initiative that promotes both happiness and health awareness, contributing to a better society, stronger families, and healthier workplaces.”

The Saree 3K Run proved to be more than just a race—it was a celebration of empowerment and cultural pride. Women came together to inspire others to embrace fitness without limitations, showing that health and wellness know no barriers, whether in attire or age.

About Motherhood Hospitals

Motherhood Women & Children’s Hospital network is India’s fastest-growing single specialty hospital network with 23 hospitals in 11 cities and over 1000 leading gynaecologists, paediatricians & neonatologists across the country associated with the hospital network. Recognized for its best-in-class clinical expertise and range of comprehensive women and childcare services, the leading healthcare chain has pioneered managing high-risk pregnancies, complex gynae surgeries such as fertility enhancement or uro-gynae surgeries, management of newborns with critical conditions and extremely low birth weight babies. With the largest network of over 200 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) beds in the country, Motherhood Hospitals are acclaimed as India’s best referral centre for handling the most complex preterm births.

Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital In Collaboration With Press Club of Bengaluru Conducts Eye Check-Up Camp For Journalists

Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, a leading eye care hospital in Bengaluru, in association with Press club of Bengaluru and Karnataka State Digital Media Association organized an eye check-up camp for journalists in Press Club of Bengaluru on Saturday. The camp offered comprehensive eye screening and on-site tests including screening for refractive errors, cataracts, glaucoma and other related conditions to prioritize eye health of the media professionals and their overall well-being.

The camp was inaugurated by Sri. Ravi Hegde, Editor-in-chief of Kannada Prabha and Asianet Suvarna News and Sri. Siddu Kaloji, Editor of Vijayavani, Digital Edition. The inauguration event of the camp was also graced by the presence of Sri. Sridhar R, President of the Press Club of Bengaluru, Sri. Hanumesh K Yavagal, President of the Karnataka State Digital Media Association, Sri. Shivakumar Bellitatte, General Secretary of the Press Club of Bengaluru, Sri. Anil Budur Lulla, General Secretary of the Karnataka State Digital Media Association, and Sri. Yasir Mushtaq, Convenor of the Health Committee at the Press Club of Bengaluru.

Thorough eye screenings were conducted for the journalists from various media organisations by a team of experienced ophthalmologists from Nethradhama. The eye camp went beyond the traditional eye check-up, providing personalized consultations from the eye specialists, and offering expert advices to address the eye-health related concerns.

During the inauguration of the camp, Sri. Sridhar R, President of the Press Club of Bengaluru, “Journalists have demanding work-lives, often involving long hours and significant screen time. Recognizing the potential impact on their eye health, this initiative focuses on early detection and treatment of eye-related health concerns. This is a significant step towards the overall well-being of journalists. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital for organizing this eye check-up camp for the members of the press club.”

Mehirr Nath Chopra, Chief Business Officer, Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, highlighted the hospital's commitment to proactive eye care and said, “We at Nethradhama are delighted to join hands with the Press club of Bengaluru and Karnataka State Digital Media Association for this eye check-up camp. Journalists often lead a hectic work-life, which can significantly impact their eye health. We are committed to community service and value the health of journalists. This initiative aims to promote proactive eye care and address critical eye-health concerns among media professionals at an early stage.”

Sri. Hanumesh K Yavagal, President of the Karnataka State Digital Media Association addressed eye health concerns faced by our members and emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures “This eye check-up camp prioritizes the overall health and well-being of our members. Media professionals are often exposed to long hours on screens, which can affect their visions. This camp will help identify and address any eye problems, ensuring quality eye care to them.”

The journalists from print, TV channels and digital media platforms attended the eye check-up camp, undergoing a series of eye health assessments conducted by the hospital. Nethradhama is committed to patient satisfaction and quality eye care through cutting-edge technology. Dr. Sri Ganesh, the Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director of Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, is one of India's leading ophthalmologists. He holds a record in high-risk surgeries, having performed over 100,000 Phaco surgeries and 50,000 Refractive surgeries to date.