Key economic forecast: Monsoon may disrupt inflation calculations

Real Economy: Dun & Bradstreet expects the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) to remain robust, supported by the improvement in overall consumer demand. Strong growth in infrastructure and construction goods since November 2022 reflects healthy investment activity in the economy and will continue to support industrial production even as exports remain weak. Nonetheless, the monsoon remains a major risk to industrial output. Dun & Bradstreet expects the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) to have grown by 8.0% - 8.50% during June 2023 partly due to the low base of the previous year.

Price Scenario: Dun & Bradstreet expects retail inflation to remain elevated given the food supply chain, especially cereals and vegetables, has been disrupted by an intense heatwave followed by heavy rainfall. The progression of the monsoon and the trend of Kharif sowing will play a crucial role in determining inflation in the coming months. The recent increase in food prices is expected to amplify inflationary pressures and may delay a policy rate cut in the short term. On the other hand, wholesale inflation is likely to remain negative due to the high base of the previous year and the decline in global commodity prices. Dun & Bradstreet expects the Consumer Price Inflation (CPI) to be in the range of 4.3% - 4.5% and Wholesale Price Inflation (WPI) to be around (-) 3.3% - (-) 3.2% in July 2023.

Money & Finance: The impact of uneven rainfall and weather-related uncertainties followed by festival related demand from September 2023 is likely to keep inflation elevated, thereby pushing the possibility of a policy rate cut to early next year. This would keep bond yields elevated. Furthermore, the expected rate hike by the US FED and the consequent rise in US treasury yields will also prevent the yields from moderating. Dun & Bradstreet expects the 15-91-day Treasury Bills yield to remain at around 6.7%-6.72% and 10-year G-Sec yield to be 7.08%-7.10% for July 2023.

External Sector: While the net Foreign Institutional Investors (FII) inflows and the narrowing of the trade deficit will continue to support the rupee, it is expected to remain range bound given the interventions by the Reserve Bank of India. Dun & Bradstreet expects the rupee to remain at around 82.1 - 82.2 per US$ during July 2023.

Dr Arun Singh, Global Chief Economist, Dun & Bradstreet said, “Irregular rainfall has disrupted the supply chain of cereals and vegetables and the consequent increase in prices is expected to further amplify inflationary pressures, thereby delaying the possibility of a rate cut in 2023. Lending rates are likely to remain elevated this year. Despite the rising lending rates, the overall bank credit is growing in double digits. This should not undermine the uneven pace of credit growth across different sectors which points to the underlying challenges faced by some of them. On the other hand, growth in personal loans, vehicle loans and credit card debt shows the healthy consumer demand in the economy. Nonetheless, given the steep increase in the lending rates for personal loans, unsecured credit could see an increase in bad asset”.

Sanjaynagar slum in Ahmednagar witnesses transformation with dignified homes for residents in Phase

"Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of these communities," these inspirational words on Empowering the Society from Sandhya Naidu Janardhan, Managing Director, Community Design Agency is in regard to the significant strides taken in transforming the lives of residents in Sanjaynagar, a slum in Ahmednagar, through its innovative slum redevelopment project. With Phase 1 already providing safe and dignified housing for several families who have been residing in their new homes for over a year, CDA is now calling for support to ensure the successful construction of Phase 2.

Sanjaynagar, a community of 298 families who were living in challenging slum conditions, has witnessed a significant change, with 33 families already moving into comfortable and utilitarian homes. This accomplishment was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the residents themselves, Ahmednagar Municipal Corporation, Snehalaya (a local non-profit organization), and CDA, an initiative of Curry Stone Design Collaborative. Construction on the remaining 265 homes under Phase 2 is set to be completed over a 2-year period.

The redevelopment plan for Sanjaynagar extends beyond housing and encompasses the development of essential amenities such as water and drainage systems, roads, street lighting, childcare and community centers, courtyards for healthy recreation, edible gardens, and retail shops. The wide corridors in the design facilitate the utilization of common spaces for social interactions, fostering a strong sense of community. The involvement of the residents in decision-making processes and social issue resolution has been a key element of this transformative project.

With India firmly dedicated to achieving a 45% reduction in the emissions intensity of its GDP by 2030, the Sanjaynagar Redevelopment Project has focused on issues of sustainability and resilience right from the start, with an emphasis on passive cooling mechanisms, building rainwater harvesting and solar lighting systems, as well as using locally sourced fly-ash bricks for construction. CDA-designed houses are engineered to remain several degrees cooler, a feature that is often lacking in slum projects.  

The redevelopment of Sanjaynagar showcases the transformative power of collaborative design and emphasises the impact of the built environment on the flourishing of marginalised communities. CDA embraces an inclusive approach and aims to share its expertise with other underserved communities, extending its innovative design principles beyond Sanjaynagar to benefit other slums and informal settlements.

The successful Phase I of the Sanjaynagar slum redevelopment project has been made possible through financial support from both central and state governments under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. For Phase 2, donors, including corporate entities with a strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, as well as philanthropists, have a unique opportunity to support the construction and furnishing of such spaces, which will significantly enhance the quality of life for the residents, building upon the government's assistance. In order to help the homeowners make their contribution towards the redevelopment, CDA has collaborated with the peer-to-peer lending platform Rang De to provide loans to the families. Contributions from like-minded and visionary individuals, organizations, and businesses will play a pivotal role in the construction of Phase 2 and in empowering the residents of Sanjaynagar.

Sandhya Naidu Janardhan, Managing Director, Community Design Agency, expressed gratitude, "The positive impact of Phase 1 has been immense, and we are determined to continue this journey by creating even more sustainable housing solutions. We invite everyone who believes in our cause to join us in this endeavour by contributing towards the building of Phase 2. Whether through financial or in-kind support, including building materials, you can become a part of setting a new benchmark in affordable housing."

VARTAH - India’s Largest Summit on Risk Management for Adolescents held in Delhi

An innovative national level school counsellors' summit that brought together school counsellors from across the country for ‘VARTAH: Values - Awareness – Reform – Thrive – Action - Hope. A summit on Managing Risk Behaviour for school children was organized by GD Goenka University in collaboration with Fortis Mental Health Program on 21 & 22 July 2023.

 

VARTAH aims at nurturing a positive mental health culture within educational ecosystems, offers a distinctive platform for school counsellors and educators to engage in conversations focused on awareness, reforms, and actions concerning the well-being of children and adolescents.

 

The event featured insightful expert talks led by distinguished speakers from King’s University Canada, James Cook University, Singapore, and several experts from international education. Sessions focused on risk identification, proposing practical solutions to prevalent issues and challenges in child and adolescent mental health and examples of how these issues are managed across various geographical and cultural landscapes globally. 

 

Dr. Samir Parikh, Chairperson, Fortis National Mental Health Program said “Empowering children in their formative years with skills for life that help them navigate through ups and downs with confidence, self-belief and resilience is essential, that takes them on their individual paths of success, are able to have meaningful relationships and contribute to the society. A focus on mental health and well-being as an integral part of education is critical to ensure positive overall growth.”

 

Prof. (Dr.) Anjali Midha Sharan, Dean, Research & Development and School of Humanities, Social Science and Education, GD Goenka University said: “VARTAH shall focus on de-stigmatizing mental illness and enabling counsellors with skills required for helping adolescents in vulnerable environments. This shall be an extension of the University’s focus on propagating mental well-being and integrating psychological health into mainstream education. The event brings together mental health experts, school counsellors and teachers creating opportunities for dialogue around action required for propagating psychological well-being of the youth.”

 

Established in 2013 and located in Gurugram, Delhi NCR, GD Goenka University is a leading multi-disciplinary institution of higher education. Established with a vision to redefine education and empower the next generation of thought leaders, the university rooted in a rich heritage of culture and armed with a forward-looking approach, offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes that transcend traditional boundaries and equip our students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving global economy. Committed to academic rigor, research and innovation, and holistic development, the university is dedicated to nurturing intellectual curiosity, fostering creativity, and producing socially responsible global citizens. 

PRCAI launches a brand new podcast series, Unmute on the 2023 World PR Day

UnMute With PRCAI Marks The Debut Of A New Podcast Giving Voice To 'Opinions That Matter’ By Indian Achievers...

The inaugural podcast series salutes and celebrates brand India, featuring India Inc. including Ravi Venkatesan, Priyanka Gill, Vikram Sakhuja, Arundhati Bhattacharya, and Avinash Pant amongst others. The first episode to roll out on Thursday, July 20, and will be on over 75 platforms including Spotify, Anchor, Bingepods, JioSaavn, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts.

Crafting the compelling narrative of a bold and progressive India, the Public Relations Consultants Association of India (PRCAI) will debut its first-ever podcast series – ‘UNMUTE with PRCAI’. The collection consists of 10 inaugural episodes that will be unveiled by India's most influential Public Relations professional body, on World PR Day 2023 which is celebrated annually on July 16, saluting brand India and recognizing the contributions of Public Relations professionals in shaping the world.  

 

The exclusive series brings together business leaders, and valued 'Opinions that Matter', from diverse speakers from the worlds of business, politics and culture, to amplify the voices of thought-leaders shaping the rising India. Thought-provoking, yet light-hearted conversations of individual success stories will empower listeners to critically think about the challenges and opportunities in an evolving landscape. 

 

The podcast is hosted by Niret Alva, an award-winning television journalist, producer, anchor, director and educator, who has been awarded a National Award (Indian) for Excellence in Visual Science-Based Communication and an International Award (Asian Television Award) for Best Anchor in a Current Affairs Series. Niret, who was also selected as an Asia 21 Leader by the New York-based Asia Society, with his rich and extensive experience, will help bring out interesting and authentic conversations. 

 

"I have enjoyed interviewing these inspirational leaders and getting them to tell their unique stories. These stories will inspire, motivate and challenge listeners as they listen to how these industry leaders lead, deal with adversity, and find balance in their every day lives.  It’s a great initiative from the Public Relations fraternity,” said Alva, TV journalist and Co-founder of Miditech Studios. 

 

The show will feature renowned names, including Ravi Venkatesan, Chairperson of The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP); Entrepreneur Priyanka Gill, Vikram Sakhuja, Group CEO of Madison Media, and OOH; Arundhati Bhattacharya, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of Salesforce India and Avinash Pant, Former, Director-Marketing for Meta.    

The inaugural 10-part series, sponsored by Adfactors PR, will roll out its first episodefeaturing Ravi Venkatesan, Chairperson Global Energy Alliance for People & Plant (GEAPP) and Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) on Thursday, July 20 on 75 plus platforms including Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Anchor, Bingepods, JioSaavn and whenever you get your audio content...  

In therapid fire round of the first podcast,Niretasks Ravi Venkatesan to do some crystal ball gazing about the U.S., China, Russia, and India and what lies ahead. This is what Ravi had to say about India, "We need to find a way to become less divided. All our problems today require us to come together as a society and as a country to solve them. I am 60 years old, and it's the most divided I have ever seen. And that's not good for solving the many challenges that we have."

 

At a time when the communication industry is experiencing an upward trajectory, harnessing the power of effective communication is paramount. According to PRCAI’s research, the Study of Public Relations Insights, Nuggets, and Trends (SPRINT) 2022-23, PR professionals are being increasingly recognised by the C-suite for their invaluable contribution. Eight out of 10 respondents said that India Inc. leadership is working closely with its corporate communications team to devise strategies for brand communication. 

“It is exciting to celebrate our profession and all the hard work of the community on this World PR Day with a new podcast series from PRCAI. We believe that there is an evolution in the value proposition being offered by the communications industry to businesses through credible narratives, powerful storytelling and shaping public opinion. Unmute With PRCAI aims to connect the creative communications world with India Inc, together crafting an honest narrative of a bold new India, saluting India’s compelling story in what could be the Indian century,” concluded, Deeptie Sethi, CEO, PRCAI. 

THE AMERICAN BOYFRIEND is a Gripping Tale of Cross-Cultural Love, Interracial Relationships, and Racial Dynamics

"I want the world to know is what it means to be a modern Asian woman. She is confident, open-minded and independent, both financially and emotionally," says Ivy Ngeow the author of THE AMERICAN BOYFRIEND.

The American Boyfriend is a domestic psychological romantic suspense-thriller by London-based award-winning author and editor, Ivy Ngeow. This gripping novel takes readers on a heart-racing journey through the risks and rewards of online dating, interlaced with themes of cross-cultural relationships and the dynamics of race relations in the West. The book is scheduled to come out on 15 August 2023 from the Penguin Books imprint. It is currently available for pre-ordering on all major e-commerce websites in India.

Perfect for the fans of Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn, Things We Do In The Dark by Jennifer Hillier, and Verity by Colleen Hoover, The American Boyfriend introduces readers to Phoebe Wong, a Malaysian-Chinese single mother living in London. Tired of her dead-end job and aching to escape the British winter, Phoebe eagerly accepts an invitation from her long-distance titular ‘American’ boyfriend to meet him in sunny Key West, Florida. Accompanied by her teething toddler, Phoebe arrives ahead of her boyfriend and experiences a nightmarish turn of events when she is robbed on her first night.

Stranded in Key West without money, cards, or passports, Phoebe finds solace in the support of friendly locals. However, when a British ex-pat she meets is mysteriously shot dead, Phoebe realizes she is trapped in a dangerous situation as things continue to go grow out of hand. As suspicions surrounding her boyfriend's delayed arrival grow, Phoebe becomes determined to extricate herself and her daughter from the escalating danger.

Through the pages of this novel, Ngeow also sheds light on the nuanced dynamics of race relations and gun violence in the subtext. The story delves into the complexities of identity, love, and survival in a world fraught with danger as the readers go on this journey which is full of unexpected twists and turns and a shocking finale for the protagonist.

Talking about the publication of her book, author, Ivy Ngeow said, ‘I wrote a book that I wanted to read. I was frustrated that there was a serious lack of commercial fiction with strong female Asian protagonists. Much of Asian literature for the Western market falls into the literary fiction or historical category with romanticised tropes of the empire, WWII and “Malaya” nostalgia. But so much has happened since 1957. I write to challenge those tiring stereotypes and cliches. The story I want to give the world is what it means to be a modern Asian woman. She is confident, open-minded and independent, both financially and emotionally. (But it did take us thousands of years and about 40 minutes to get here). As such, this moment is so much bigger than me.’

Nora Nazerene Abu Bakar, Publisher, Penguin Random House SEA, says, ‘Stories like The American Boyfriend are important because they carry forward the message of why representation matters to the masses in a way that it would appeal to them. We hope that this book keeps the readers turning pages until the very end!’

'The American Boyfriend' is published and released by Penguin Random House.

India imposes restrictive measures on Gold imports to protect artisan livelihoods, promote indigenous manufacturing

With an aim to bolster the growth of the Indian jewellery industry and empowering local manufacturers to produce a wide range of gold ornaments domestically, the Indian government has recently imposed new restrictions on gold imports, specifically targeting the import of gold jewellery from ASEAN and SouthEast Asia. This strategic move aims to strengthen the Indian jewellery industry by curbing the disproportionate import of bullion compared to jewellery and fostering local manufacturing capabilities.

Welcoming this implementation that discourages sale of bullion obtained from imported jewellery which poses a grave risk of rendering numerous local artisans jobless, Saiyam Mehra, Chairman of the All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC), highlighted the significant disparity between bullion and jewellery imports, stating, "India imports bullion to the tune of 600-800 tonnes per annum, which is substantially higher than jewellery. India does not import gold jewellery through official sources due to a 25% import duty. The import duty on ASEAN countries was ‘zero’, which resulted in India's import of gold jewellery to the tune of more than 3.5 tonnes valued at $112.09 million in April-May 2023, of which $76.28 million came from Indonesia. Now, the restriction will stop such imports and enable jewellery retailers to manufacture all gold ornaments locally."

It is heard that the previous practice of importing ornaments for melting in local refineries and selling bullion for higher profits due to duty differentials has raised concerns within the industry. This practice not only affects domestic revenue but also poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of 70-80 lakh (7-8 million) local artisans.

Rajesh Rokde, Vice Chairman of the GJC, added, "With the current change, jewellery imports from ASEAN countrries have been restricted. Now, Indian jewellers can import gold jewellery only through the UAE under the CEPA agreement after paying the required import duty."

By reducing reliance on imports, the government aims to create a favorable environment for the development of local artisans and safeguard their employment opportunities. The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) welcomes the government's decision to impose restrictions on gold imports and stands united with the Indian jewellery industry in its efforts to nurture self-sufficiency and preserve the rich heritage of Indian jewellery craftsmanship.

The All India Gem and Jewellery Domestic Council (GJC) represents lakhs of trade constituents comprising manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, distributors, laboratories, gemologists, designers and allied services to the domestic gems & jewellery industry. The Council functions with the objective to address the industry, its functioning, and its cause with a 360° approach to promote and progress its growth, while protecting the industry's interests. GJC, since the last 15 years, has been serving as a bridge between the government and the trade by undertaking various initiatives on behalf of and for the industry.

A blend of luxury and serenity in a breathtaking natural setting in the heart of Rajasthan: Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh

Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh

Nestled amidst the majestic Aravalli Range, this exquisite Radisson Blu resort is poised to redefine the region’s hospitality landscape by delivering a comfortable and stylish experience to guests backed by the Group’s unparalleled service standards. Situated in Kumbhalgarh in the heart of Rajasthan’s best-kept secret. Surrounded by diverse flora and fauna on the foothills of the Aravalli Range, Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh is a serene oasis spread across 5.18 acres.

The resort showcases a perfect blend of luxury and serenity in a breathtaking natural setting. The resort's architecture pays homage to the rich heritage of Rajasthan, seamlessly combining traditional elements with modern design to create a truly captivating ambiance. Set in a spectacular location with a mountainous backdrop, the resort is accessible from Maharana Pratap Airport Udaipur and Udaipur City Junction Train Station within two hours.

Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh is located in proximity to the illustrious Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its architectural splendor. The resort’s strategic location ensures convenient access to other prominent attractions, including the revered Ranakpur Jain Temple and the captivating wildlife of Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Just a 2-hour drive away from Udaipur, life at Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh is all about the simple pleasures – waking up to warm sunshine, strolling through lush gardens, savouring local culinary delights, and exploring tales of bravery with guided treks and trails to sites undiscovered.

“We are thrilled to unveil Radisson Blu Resort Kumbhalgarh, a true gem in our growing portfolio. With its captivating setting, thoughtful amenities, and Rajasthan’s warm hospitality, we are confident that Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh will become a preferred destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. Radisson Hotel Group, in the past 25 years of operations in India, has become a part of the country’s social fabric. We derive deep inspiration from this and will continue to add more such magnificent hotels to our portfolio that are an embodiment of India’s rich heritage.” said Zubin Saxena, Managing Director & Area Senior Vice President - South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group

It is the only IGBC-certified property in the region. The resort boasts spacious rooms and suites that are elegantly designed with thoughtful touches offering stunning views of the picturesque landscape, ensuring a tranquil retreat for every guest. The resort offers three unique dining options, comprising a pizzeria, an all-day diner, and a lounge bar.

The resort also features a fitness center, a rejuvenating spa, and an outdoor pool for relaxation. It provides expansive meeting and banquet facilities with advanced technology. Guests can engage in self-rejuvenating recreational activities such as artisanal, puppet, and pottery workshops, guided treks led by naturalists, jungle visits, and cultural trails. The resort further enhances the guest experience with a royal welcome, performances like Nagada and Flute recitals, Ghoomar dance, and Sandhya aarti.

"We are delighted to collaborate with Radisson Hotel Group for the opening of Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh. This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey as a hospitality brand, as we join forces with a renowned global leader in the industry. Through this collaboration, we are confident in delivering an exceptional experience that allows our guests to immerse themselves in the rich culture and heritage of Rajasthan. We are committed to providing unparalleled hospitality and ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable stay.”, said Sharad Mishra, Director & Owner of Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh.

Gourav Deb, General Manager of Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh said, “Radisson Blu Resort, Kumbhalgarh is designed to offer a perfect blend of tranquility, luxury, and cultural immersion. We are dedicated to crafting memorable experiences for our guests with exceptional services and recreational activities, making it a perfect cultural holiday spot. The resort ensures spectacular hospitality amidst the UNESCO world heritage site, and we are excited to host our guests with the Group’s signature Yes, I Can! Service ethos."

(Promotional Feature) 

India Space Congress 2023 drives collaboration, harnesses potential of Satellite & Space application for Empowering Socio-Economic Development

The India Space Congress 2023 in association with SIA-India united with respective Governors of 3 states concluded with the aim of harnessing the potential of satellite and space applications to drive socio-economic development across India.

 

"India Space Congress 2023 marked a significant milestone with the attendance of governors from Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Mizoram, showcasing the higher authority's recognition of the congress's importance. With the theme 'Redefining the Space Sector for Empowering Socio-Economic Development," remarked Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri, President, SIA-India in his concluding day Keynote Address. 

 

His Excellency, Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati, the Governor of Mizoram said, “The impactful role of the Space-Based Information Support for Decentralised Planning of Mizoram in promoting inclusive and sustainable development. The adoption of space applications in Mizoram holds immense importance in driving inclusive and sustainable development. These technologies empower local communities, optimize resource allocation, enhance infrastructure planning, and strengthen disaster preparedness. By harnessing the power of space-based information, Mizoram is poised to achieve significant progress in various sectors, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for its residents”

Air Marshal Surat Singh, Director General Air (Operations) mentioned, “The significance of space assets in warfare based on the Gulf War of 1991. In that conflict, space assets played a crucial role in monitoring, controlling, and softening the battlefield for 39 days, despite only 100 hours of ground fighting. Space assets must be protected from cyber-attacks through hardening measures and the application of quantum technology. The Indian Air Force views space as an extension of the air domain, considering persistent ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and high-precision PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) as highly important.”

Shri Sunil, Additional Director General, Prasar Bharti emphasised on the commercial objectives, “Satellites are Leading innovation for B2B and B2C Video creating new revenue streams, and enhance the overall value proposition. By embracing new technologies, business models, and partnerships, companies can stay competitive and capitalize on the increasing demand for video content across various platforms and devices.”

India also needs a clear spectrum assignment mechanism. Simplifying the spectrum access process improves allocation and utilization, benefiting telecommunications, broadcasting, and other industries. This promotes growth and contributes to overall economic development by streamlining channels like the Department of Space and the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC). SIA-India looks forward to having spectrum policy that assures assignment through administrative license.

India Space Congress is an annual flagship event organized by the SatCom Industry Association of India (SIA-India). It brings together leading professionals, visionaries, and experts from the space sector to share insights, discuss advancements, and foster collaborations in the field of space and satellite technology.

How AI will transform education, Coursera founder shares insights at Moneycontrol Startup Conclave

Jeff Maggioncalda, CEO of Coursera, a U.S.-based massive open online course provider, shared his views at the Moneycontrol Startup Conclave, on the topic of ‘Navigating edtech in the AI era held in Bengaluru on 10th of July..

On being told by his engineers, “Hey Jeff, this stuff is getting pretty powerful”, Jeff said how he then had to get his hands onto ChatGPT by early December of 2022. Since then, Coursera has moved pretty aggressively to integrate a ChatGPT implementation of a personalized learning assistant called Coursera Coach. It works on 5000 courses...

On being asked whether he thinks AI will save or destroy education, he said, “I think education has to adapt. Every time the world is changing, everything has to adapt. Relationships, institutions, everything. We’re all going to have to change the way we use tools, and even the way we use technology as a thought partner.”

“We’re using a large language model, we are not actually doing a lot of fine tuning right now, and we are constructing prompts that have the kind of context that a tutor would need to give you personalized prompts. So, it allows the language models to be really good at language, but the domain expertise comes from the university and the professor. We are rolling it out and, a little over 25% of our learners have access to Coursera Coach.”

On the impact of generative AI on kids’ learning abilities, Maggioncalda said, “The capability of this technology is quite remarkable, and I was worried that it was giving me too good of an answer. So, we are all figuring out how you can support a learner without letting them cheat. Cheating is a very big threat to the way people learn. So, we want to lend assistance, not give them the whole answer. The student still has to do all the work.”

“The pandemic was a major accelerator in the adoption of technology for teaching and learning. But even now as people go back to school, we are seeing really strong adoption of online learning in physical classrooms. I think we will never go back to a world of printed textbooks, with every student and every teacher in the same class. So, I think it’s going to be a hybrid world. Even students on campus are taking courses on Coursera, and our courses becoming a part of the curriculum. So, it is a hybrid world, and we all need to be pretty agile, because the world is changing pretty quickly,” he added.

A community for seniors over 60 - SilverWings App from SeniorWorld

Fostering interaction between seniors to express and exchange viewpointss, now there is a social, wellness and fun community app platform for seniors over 60, 'SilverWings' has been introduced by SeniorWorld, India’s leading company focussed on making a positive difference to the lives of the elderly since 2015.

Rahul Gupta, CEO and Co-Founder of SeniorWorld, shares his vision for the platform, stating, "With SilverWings, we aspire to give our beloved elders the wings to soar even higher and live their lives to the fullest - inspiring each other and younger generations along the way. The app has been designed based on the feedback received from our 3 Lakh plus seniors community on Facebook, which has one of the highest engagement scores among all FB communities” 

Social connect and engagement is a key need for the elderly with a staggering 65% urban seniors expressing loneliness as an issue. To address this, SilverWings has built the social aspect of the community around 4E's: express, engage, explore, and enjoy. The App publishes engaging articles and snippets every day, which provides seniors with an avenue to express and exchange viewpoints and experiences. Additionally, the app also fosters interaction between seniors who share common interests such as music, poetry, hobbies, travel etc making for more meaningful connections.  

 

Furthermore, seniors can attend technology classes to become more tech savvy, explore new experiences/hobbies, host events to share their expertise or even embark on group holiday tours with like-minded seniors. Most importantly, SilverWings ensures that seniors enjoy themselves with its wide array of fun sessions, games & quizzes etc. Says Mrs Mahajan- a single 68 year old SilverWinger from Noida "SilverWings is my daily dose of tonic for engagement and fun” 

With 70% seniors grappling with chronic disease, SilverWings offers a range of benefits to support their well-being. Seniors can enjoy daily fitness and meditation sessions, participate in live talks with doctors from renowned hospitals, access informative articles on health and wellness, set up medicine reminders, and conveniently keep track of their vitals in one place. Says Mrs. Sharma from Bhopal "SilverWings yoga is easy as it is specially designed for seniors. My husband has started doing chair yoga and the medicine reminders are very useful." 

To take care of safety, the SilverWings App has a digital SOS emergency button. With just a touch, the App automatically sends a distress message to designated emergency contacts with crucial information like the GPS location and medical history, and also initiates sequential and repeated calls to them, expediting the help they need. 

"The creation of the SilverWings app has been a labour of love," says MP Deepu, Co-Founder of SeniorWorld. "We have thoughtfully crafted this app using inclusive design principles and it is currently available for Android devices. It would be wonderful if everyone participates in this collective journey by helping their elderly family members install this app. It may possibly be one of the best things that you can do for them.” 

SeniorWorld vision is focussed on helping seniors lead more engaged, healthier and independent lives since 2015 by offering specially designed phones for seniors under the brand easyfone and assisted group holiday tours for seniors. 

Infosys founder Narayana Murthy opines that Every startup should have only one leader

The founder of Infosys speaks to Rohan Murthy on the issues of starting up, sacrifices, values and more. Narayana Murthy, took the floor at Moneycontrol Startup Conclave 2023 to speak in a candid conversation with his son, Rohan Murthy, Founder of Soroco..

The IIT alumnus was asked why he chose to become an entrepreneur. He answered, "Because I believe the only way society can remove its poverty is through the power of entrepreneurship, creating jobs, translating ideas into jobs, translating ideas into wealth, and enhancing taxes paid to the government."

When asked to list key attributes of entrepreneurs, he highlighted, "They must have the power of imagination. They must be comfortable with innovation, with doing something unusual. Passion fuels your energy, enthusiasm, and ability to achieve the target, and for this, the leader must have an articulated value system."

The next key step for any nascent business is hiring talent. He recommended, "My focus was on competence. Without that, nothing will happen. The second is the value system. In the beginning, everybody has to trust everybody else implicitly. The only thing the employees have are your words. For this, you must be authentic. When employees work as a team, in unison, there is a high probability of people buying into your vision, and that vision must have something in it for everybody."

On devising leadership and organizational structure, he suggests, "Every startup company must have only one leader. There cannot be two or three leaders. Just one leader." He adds, "Once the managerial phase comes in, you invite managers to create systems and processes, establish protocols, invite independent directors, and have a good governance mechanism."

Crippling uncertainty and self-doubt are common among all startup founders. Addressing pathways to tackle that, Mr. Narayana Murthy shares how he felt when his company went public, "When we went public, we were worried about whether we would do well or not." For navigating times when things get tough at the office and at home, he suggested, "You should not panic. During uncertain times, I would crack jokes in the office and talk to them about how other people have gone through such times as well, and how God is with us. Sometimes, logic doesn't suffice. There are moments when one must transcend logic, embrace faith, and believe in God."

Reminiscing about his roots, he elaborated on how selecting a career pathway wasn't as parent-regulated back then as it is today. He said, "Back then, they didn't ask us 'what are you going to do.' Somehow, that environment gave us much freedom. Acknowledging his wife's pivotal role during the early stages of building his business, Mr. Murthy expressed his gratitude for Mrs. Sudha Murthy, present at the Moneycontrol Startup Conclave 2023. He shares, "My wife stood by me when my colleagues were unsupportive."

The session also included Mrs. Murthy sharing her perspective as the first angel investor in Murthy's life. She shares the anecdote, "Living with a successful man can be extremely challenging. They are not ordinary individuals; they possess eccentricities and lack conventional logic at home, reserving it solely for the office. These accomplished individuals often have sky-high expectations, requiring their partners to juggle multiple roles simultaneously." She adds, "They expect their partners to be a wife, secretary, finance manager, nanny, advisor, and assume various other responsibilities. Failing in any one of these roles can have a profound negative impact on their well-being."

A number of budding startups present at the Moneycontrol Startup Conclave 2023 sought Murthy's perspective on the principle of good governance, to which he suggested, "Put the interest of the community ahead of your personal interest, in the short and mid-run, and you will emerge a winner in the long term. It is a philosophy that you either have or you 

Monsoon styling tips: A quick guide to look Fab this season

Breezy evenings.. Blooming-green scenic views.. Heavy downpours.. Monsoon surely calls for some key essentials. Let’s take a sneak-peak at these must-haves!!
 
To cherish the monsoon season. Why not go in for breezy kurtas that are definitely a cool embrace on sticky days. An ideal one could be adorned with a charming Chinese collar placket and quarter sleeves, a Cotton Lambadi Slim Fit Knee Length Kurta (shown in pic) beautifully captures the essence of contemporary fashion. After all – a little pink always makes that rainy day brighter!
 
Floral, bright, and everything nice – Cotton Printed Long Dress is all you need for your upcoming coffee dates. Pair it with dainty earrings and a sling bag to finish the look.
 
Monsoon is sure to make the skin feel greasy; therefore a face tone that is enriched with fruit extracts and has to be alcohol-free and a Vitamin C Citrus Fruits face toner is a must-have. Let’s say hello to a refreshed and glowy face!
 
While lip balms are always a must-have; this one right here is perfect for this season. The ideal advise is to go in for enriched with beeswax & shea butter, a pocket-friendly Coconut Cardamon Lip Butter is sure to make your lips happy and hydrated (a FabIndia Product).
 
Prints have something that adds to rainy days –agree? Bright, beautiful, and breezy go for a chic Cotton Flared Dress that is sure to make you feel pretty. Team it with a pair of white slip-ons for a monsoon breakfast or brunch date!
 
Confident. Delicate. Beautiful, for this you can choose a Flower Body Spray is all you need to keep you smelling fresh all day, every day. Make sure that it’s so handy it will easily fit in any sling or fanny pack that you are planning to carry!

India Space Congress 2023 to usher in Innovation, Collaboration, and Socio-Economic Development

A mega gathering of distinguished luminaries from government, industry and academia to share insights and expertise are expected to attend the flagship event of The SatCom Industry Association of India (SIA-India) that brings the 2nd edition of India Space Congress 2023 to be held from July 10-12, 2023 in New Delhi.

 

ISC is partnering with Invest India to provide space entrepreneurs and startups an unparalleled opportunity to pitch their visionary ideas directly to invaestors and forge invaluable connections within the industry. This initiative aims to empower and catalyze the growth of space startups, propelling India's space sector to new heights of innovation and prosperity...

 

"ISC 2023 ignites a visionary platform to envision a transformative future for space, prioritizing socio-economic development. It propels innovative solutions that advance the space industry, fostering economic growth and societal progress. As India signs the Artemis Accords, the world anticipates intensified collaboration and sustainable space exploration. India Space Congress 2023 marks the beginning of a new era in space exploration, policy formulation, technological advancements, space diplomacy, and international collaboration, all aimed at driving collaboration and socio-economic development," expressed Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri, President SIA-India & CMD Ananth Technologies Ltd

 

The Congress anticipates a massive turnout of over 700 delegates, consisting of industry leaders, policymakers, defence experts, top consultants, diplomats and visionaries. This transformative event will feature more than 50+ sessions encompassing multiple tracks and themes, creating an immersive environment for knowledge exchange, breakthrough collaborations, and groundbreaking advancements.

 

Anil Prakash, Director General, SIA-India mentioned that a distinguished lineup of VIP speakers who will enlighten the conference with their expertise and insights, Hon. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Governor of Mizoram, Dr S. Somanath, Secretary of the Department of Space and Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Dr Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Hon’ble Member of NITI Aayog, Dharmendra IAS, Chief Secretary of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh among others that also include Thomas Bleeker, Head Aerospace, Nertherlands,  Hazem Moakkit, Vice President of Spectrum Strategy at Intelsat, Dr Mike Short, Chief Scientific Adviser at the UK Department for International Trade and George Weinman, Senior Director of Blue Origin's Space Systems Development. 

 

Notable supporters for ISC 2023 include The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), NITI Aayog, the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, India Post's Ministry of Communications & Technology, Australia India Chamber of Commerce (AICC), IIT Tirupati Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation (IITTNiF) and Lovely Professional University (LPU).

 

ISC also invites Indian authors to submit their original research papers, case studies, and thought-provoking articles focusing on leveraging space technology for socio-economic development. These contributions will shape India's space sector strategy and fuel private sector participation, fostering a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and growth.

Medical Breakthrough: Heart valve replaced by Treatment without Surgery

In what is considered a breakthrough in Medical world, a senior citizen's heart valve was replaced by Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVI) procedure in a hospital in Nagpur. This treatment was carried out without surgery, thus avoiding the complications in the patient. No wonder that Nagpur is being called as a medical hub.
 
A great credit goes to the success of Wockhardt Hospitals Cardiologists in Nagpur, where an Aortic valve of a 67-year-old patient had failed and this was developing cardiac complications. Open heart surgery was the option before him to replace the valve.  
 

Dr Anmol Sonawane, Dr Nitin Tiwari, Dr Amey Beedkar,
Cardiovascular Surgeon Dr Sumit Pathak, Anesthetist Dr Pankaj

However, now all state-of -the -art  medical facilities are available in Nagpur too, and  'Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement' (TAVI) is an option to replace the valve without surgery. At Wockhardt Hospitals  Internationally renowned cardiologist Dr. Anmol Sonawane completed this process on patient.  Dr. Anmol Sonawane  was assisted by Cardiologist Dr. Nitin Tiwari, Dr. Amey Beedkar, Cardiovascular Surgeon Dr. Sumit Pathak, Anesthetist Dr. Pankaj's team.
 
Open heart surgery was a risk for the patient, as the patient had comorbidities like hypertension, kidney problems. In such cases 'Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement' is the only option. If the aortic valve fails, the patient's quality of life may be less than that of cancer patients and the risk of sudden cardiac arrest increases. The patient also took a decision to undergo a valve replacement procedure without delay. Now the condition of the patient is good and the blood supply is normal.
 
In Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement, just like angiography and angioplasty, a tube (catheter) is passed from the arm through a blood vessel to the heart. With help of pacemaker the heart beats are increased up to 250 beats per minute. Once the heart is stabilized, a valve is opened in the heart, guided by an artificial catheter. Once the patient stabilizes over time, the catheter is removed.  
 
What is special about this is procedure is that patient does not need anesthesia to perform this surgery. This procedure can be done while the patient is conscious. There is no risk of bleeding as there is no need to make an incision. The patient is discharged from the hospital in three-four days.
 
For patients who are at risk of open heart surgery, this treatment is effective. Wockhardt Hospital has all specialist doctors and a well-equipped intensive care unit to enable this procedure.  Such procedures are now possible in Nagpur, the patient do not have to go to other places for treatment. Apart from this, it is observed that patients from outside are flocking to Nagpur to undergo this procedure.