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April 28, 2025
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CSR: Kotak Education Foundation signs MoU with IIT Bombay for the launch of an Exclusive Kotak Kanya – IIT Bombay Scholarship, 2024-25

Kotak Education Foundation signs MoU
Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) – the CSR implementing agency of Kotak Mahindra Group, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Bombay, on 12th August, 2024. In a bid to empower promising women from underserved communities of IIT Bombay and support their academic journeys, IIT Bombay and KEF have joined forces to offer an exclusive Kotak Kanya-IIT Bombay Scholarship.  This initiative underscores our commitment to nurturing talent and facilitating access to quality education.
The MoU was exchanged under the able leadership and amidst the esteemed presence of Prof. Ravindra D Gudi, Dean Alumni and Corporate Relations, IIT Bombay, Prof. Pratibha Sharma, Associate Dean Academic Programs, IIT Bombay, Prof. Pradeepkumar PI, Chairperson, Institute Scholarships Committee, IIT Bombay, Mr. Ravishankar Gedela, CEO, IIT Bombay Development and Relations Foundation (IITB DRF), Dr. Ganesh Raja, CEO, Kotak Education Foundation, Mr. Parag Ganu, CFO, Kotak Education Foundation, Ms. Jayasree Ramesh, Director-Education and Scholarship, Kotak Education Foundation & Ms. Arati Kaulgud, Project Head, Scholarship, Kotak Education Foundation.
The scholarship program aims to empower the girl students from IIT Bombay by providing them with financial support of INR 2.85 lakhs per year till the completion of their professional graduation course/degree, enabling them to pursue their higher education without financial constraints. Beside, Financial assistance, the scholarship facilitates holistic development of the scholars through intensive student engagement and finishing school activities.
Dr. Ganesh Raja, CEO, Kotak Education Foundation said “Empowering girl children from underserved communities through education, the Kotak Kanya IIT Bombay Scholarship is a powerful, transformative, industry-leading collective for social progress. This pivotal merit-cum-means scholarship is designed to provide a comprehensive umbrella of financial aid, holistic mentorship, industry exposure, valuable career counselling and academic support, critical life skills and communication skills. A sustainable enabler of equitable, quality education, this scholarship will help students thrive, facilitate economic empowerment, drive mindset changes and foster future leaders”.
Prof. Ravindra Gudi, Dean Alumni & Corporate Relations at IIT Bombay said: “IIT Bombay is delighted to partner with Kotak Education Foundation to launch the Kotak Kanya-IIT Bombay Scholarship. Aligned with national initiatives for women empowerment such as GATI, IIT Bombay is determined to break down barriers and drive gender equality in higher education. The Kotak Kanya-IIT Bombay Scholarship is a powerful catalyst for change that will enable exceptional young women from underserved communities to claim their rightful place in STEM fields. Such scholarships support plays a crucial role in advancing gender equality by opening doors for more women to join IIT Bombay. By investing in these future leaders, we are not only fostering excellence in education but also contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society. This initiative will empower these young women to break barriers, achieve their full potential, and spark a ripple effect that will resonate far beyond their communities to help shape a better world.”
Jayasree Ramesh, Executive Committee Member (EC) & Director of Education Programme and Scholarship, Kotak Education Foundation said, “Today marks a watershed moment in the journey towards gender equality and scientific advancement. This partnership between Kotak Education Foundation and IIT Bombay is a testament to our collective commitment to empowering young women to be leaders and change-makers in the fields of STEM. This scholarship will support girls in breaking barriers and becoming successful professionals and role models for their families and communities. By investing in their education, we are nurturing individual potential and cultivating a brighter future for our nation”.
Kotak Kanya IIT Bombay Scholarship Eligibility Criteria: Open for meritorious girls of IIT Bombay.
– Applicants must have scored 75% or more marks or equivalent CGPA in Class 12 board examinations.
– Applicant annual family income must be less than INR 5,00,000.
– Meritorious girls who have secured admission to the first year of graduation programs in the academic year 2024-25 at IIT Bombay for the graduation degrees like B.Tech, BS, B.Des and integrated Master’s program.
– Applicants must be within top 20,000 rank in the advanced Joint Entrance Examination (Adv. JEE)

Kotak Kanya IIT Bombay Scholarship Benefits

– The Scholarship has a holistic approach towards nurturing the scholars beyond financial aid making them ready for the professional world.
– The Scholarship provide scholars with intensive student engagement support such as mentoring sessions, life skill and mental well-being sessions in collaboration with reputed finishing school organizations to make them future ready.
– Expert mentoring session by industry expert from the particular domain helps the scholars to get a glimpse of the real world professional landscape.
– To support students in their academic journey KEF also provided the engineering and medical students with additional subscription of Unstop and Marrow respectively for additional skill development of the scholars in their respective fields.
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CSR Initiative to Transform Water Management in Gujarat’s Gir Region

CSR Initiative to Transform Water Management in Gujarat’s Gir Region
Ambuja Foundation, in partnership with Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), have announced the Integrated Water Resource Development Project, an initiative aimed at combating water scarcity and soil salinization in the Gir forest and the coastal zones of Una and Gir Gadhada in Gujarat. This strategic collaboration will implement sustainable solutions that will positively impact the livelihoods of communities in the region.
IHCL, a prominent Tata Group company with a portfolio of over 300 hotels worldwide, will leverage its resources and expertise alongside Ambuja Foundation to replicate the successful Kodinar coastal area development model in the adjacent river basin of Rupen in Una and Gir Gadhada. These areas have been identified as critical zones facing challenges related to water scarcity, salinity, and low agricultural income.
The project will focus on rejuvenating village ponds through desilting and strengthening processes as well as filtration of wells to enhance groundwater recharge. This also includes plans to promote the construction of rooftop rainwater harvesting structures (RRWHS) in coastal villages to immediately address acute drinking water shortages. A pivotal component of the initiative is the construction and renovation of check dams along the Rupen River to support rainwater harvesting, recharge groundwater, and restore existing water bodies while creating new ones. The project will also implement water literacy programs designed to educate communities about the importance of water conservation and efficient usage. These efforts are expected to spur economic growth and build resilience in the rural communities of the area.
Mr. Gaurav Pokhariyal of IHCL, stated, “Our ESG+ framework of Paathya represents IHCL’s commitment to giving back to society by pioneering sustainable practices and driving community-focused initiatives. This collaborative effort with Ambuja Foundation aims to restore and conserve vital natural resources while simultaneously uplifting the livelihoods of the communities we serve. The initiative will restore ecological balance and improve agricultural productivity in these regions.”
He added, “This project in Gujarat is a testament to IHCL’s belief in a future where businesses act as a catalyst for positive change, contributing to a resilient and inclusive economy.”
Commenting on the partnership, Ms Pearl Tiwari, CEO, Ambuja Foundation, said, “We are committed to empowering local communities and restoring the ecosystem through sustainable water resource development and management. By increasing surface and groundwater availability in the Gir area, we aim to improve farmers’ income, ensure water security, and enhance livelihoods in the region. We have a long-standing association with the Tatas, having worked together in the past with the Tata Trusts to reverse salinity ingress in the Kodinar region. Their passion and commitment to solving the many problems of rural India, including water, is in alignment with our own mission and by working together we can pool our expertise and resources, learn from one another, and amplify our impact.”
This project builds on the successful track record of Ambuja Foundation and IHCL in implementing water strategies that have previously led to significant improvements in salinity prevention, water table improvement, and overall community prosperity. Last year, IHCL collaborated with Ambuja Foundation to offer infrastructure and training support for a skill training hospitality course in Rajasthan. IHCL provided training facilities and practical knowledge at Taj Properties, including on-the-job training opportunities, exposure visits, and placement facilitation.
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Financial Literacy Programme launched to empower students in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh

Financial Literacy Programme launched to empower students in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh
Chennai, India: ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), a globally recognised professional accountancy body, in collaboration with Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini, conducted FinLit Festivals, interactive events focused on promoting financial literacy among students. These events marked the launch of ACCA’s Financial Literacy programme at two schools in Chithode, Tamil Nadu, and Macherla, Andhra Pradesh, aimed at empowering students in grades 6-9 with essential financial skills at no cost.
Financial literacy plays a pivotal role in shaping young minds, providing them with practical knowledge on smart money management, understanding banking services, evaluating investment options and preparing them for future financial needs. By introducing these concepts early on, ACCA aims to empower students with practical finance knowledge and create a generation that is not only financially savvy but also capable of making prudent financial decisions.
The launch of the Financial Literacy Programme also included parents of the students and the broader community from Chithode and Macherla. ACCA members engaged with the community on the subjects of banking and finance, providing them with insights and practical knowledge. The programme also included skit performances by students, which focussed on key financial concepts such as the benefits of banking, the perils of using money lenders, and the risks associated with chit funds. The overall programme was designed with the intention of not just educating, but also entertaining the students, while leaving the audience with a memorable learning experience.
Speaking on the launch of the programme, Md. Sajid Khan, Director- India, ACCA, said, “We are excited to launch the ACCA Financial Literacy Programme in partnership with Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini. Financial literacy is not just a skill—it’s a lifeline that empowers individuals to make informed decisions, plan for the future, and achieve their dreams. By educating young minds early on, we are laying the foundation for a financially secure and prosperous future of the country. Our collaboration aims to inspire and equip these students with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the financial world confidently. Together, we are not just teaching finance; we are fostering a generation of financially savvy, responsible citizens.”
Prasanthi Nilayam-based Director of the Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vahini, Mrs. Karuna Munshi celebrates the intersectionality of the FinLit festival as a historic and collaborative milestone. “It’s refreshing how a professional body, a philanthropic digital education project and a private school with many first-generation learners can come together for the good of the larger community. It is a rare but powerful vision alignment aimed at giving back to our communities,” she says.
ACCA believes that financial literacy is a fundamental skill that should be accessible to everyone, and is committed to providing opportunities to students and the broader community through such impactful programmes.

 

 

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Karnataka CM launches "Kathe Chikkappa" on National Librarians Day

Karnataka CM launches “Kathe Chikkappa” on National Librarians Day
Bengaluru, India: In a landmark event on National Librarians Day, the Honourable Chief Minister of Karnataka, Mr Siddaramaiah, officially launched “Kathe Chikkappa” (Story Uncle) — a tribute to the tireless efforts of Karnataka’s gram panchayat librarians. These unsung heroes have revitalised all 5,900 rural libraries, transforming them into vibrant, joyful learning spaces for children. This event marks the announcement of 6599 new rural libraries which now serve approximately 480,000 children across the state.
Kathe Chikkappa is a delightful story about a librarian who brought the magic of stories to the children of his grama (village) through his read-alouds. This is a tribute to all the 5900 rural librarians of Karnataka on National Librarians Day, recognising their enthusiastic participation in making rural libraries children-friendly and fulcrum of local communities.
Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister of Karnataka, said,” “Schools are not the only places of learning. Though Ambedkar made education a constitutional right, even after 78 years of independence, we haven’t eradicated illiteracy. Superstitious beliefs should be replaced by scientific thinking. We can find answers only with knowledge.
I’m very happy that more than 48 lakh children are enrolled in the rural libraries today. You should take this effort to everybody. You have greater responsibility now. “
Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said of the librarians, “You are now ambassadors of knowledge”
As Karnataka leads the way in celebrating its librarians, the launch of “Kathe Chikkappa” marks a significant milestone in the state’s educational landscape. This initiative not only highlights the pivotal role of librarians but also underscores the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces for children to grow, learn, and explore their potential.
The Library transformation is part of the “Oduva Belaku” (Light of Reading) program, initiated in 2020 by the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) Department. The program aimed to reconnect children with the joy of reading and to ensure that “no child is left out.” Through this initiative, these libraries have been rebranded as “Arivu Kendras” (Centers of Knowledge), offering free memberships to children and providing inclusive spaces equipped with books, computers, and smart TVs.
The librarians who participated in this initiative with great enthusiasm, have been transformed from being “custodians of books” to “changemakers”. Being seen and valued by the children and the community has been the driving force in the adoption of the read-aloud program by the librarians of Karnataka. They began to look forward to these thirty minutes of joy of reading aloud. The librarian transformed into a person who is key to creating safe spaces to celebrate childhood and contribute to the growth of children in their communities.
In collaboration with civil society organisations such as Pratham Books, Azim Premji Foundation, Shikshana Foundation, Kalike Trust, CMCA, Yuva Chintana Foundation, India Literacy Project and Adhyayan Foundation, the program has succeeded in creating child-friendly environments where children can engage in reading, creative activities, and community events.
Reflecting on the impact of the program, Appasaheb Patil, a librarian from Nippani Taluk, Belagavi district, shared, “The programme has brought light into my library. Now, children spend lots of time at the library, either playing, reading, waiting for the time for a read-aloud session, or post-session activities. I can accommodate over 30 children per session, held twice a week, thanks to the vast library space. I want to inspire other librarians with my work and children to use this space to develop strong literacy skills.”
M.K.Sheela, a librarian from Turvekere Taluk, Tumakuru district, added, “Post the training, not only have the children started coming to the library in huge numbers but also the community members have started recognizing us as an essential part of the society. I did not think that my work and role as a librarian would have such an impact on my village. I have conducted many community engagement activities, like health camps and craft activities for women. I now feel a sense of pride in the work I have been doing.”
The RDPR Department’s collaboration with Adhyayan Foundation, with Ek Step Foundation’s initiative Bachpan Manao Badhte Jao has led to the commissioning of Reshma Bachwani’s children’s picture book, “Story Chikkappa,” which is available in multiple Indian languages, including Kannada as “Kathe Chikkappa”. Accessible through Pratham Books’ online platform StoryWeaver, this book celebrates the journey of a librarian who brought the magic of stories to children in his village through read-aloud sessions.
Uma Mahadevan-Dasgupta, Additional Chief Secretary and Development Commissioner and who spearheaded the Oduva Belaku program, commented on the read-aloud initiative’s success, stating, “Story Chikkappa stands for the work of all the librarians who have been working over the years and especially in the last 3 years in reviving our library movement..we now have more than 45 lakh children enrolled free in 3 years as members of the library. I don’t think that is a small number by any yardstick. We ourselves were delighted and surprised by the snowballing effect that our library program had. We have close to 1.4 million books donated in addition to the work that the Panchayats had done in providing furniture, bean bags etc. And at the heart of all this has been the work of the librarian[1] .”
This National Librarians Day, as “Kathe Chikkappa” is read aloud in libraries across Karnataka and beyond, the spotlight shines brightly on the librarians of Karnataka — the changemakers who are nurturing the minds of future generations.

 

 

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Students, policymakers and social influencers come together to discuss India’s future at Youth Sabha 2047

Students, policymakers and social influencers come together to discuss India’s future at Youth Sabha 2047
New Delhi, India: Several students gathered for Youth Sabha 2047, an intergenerational town hall organised in New Delhi by the United Nations Foundation and leading think tank Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), as part of the Next Generation India Fellowship. The event is part of a series of national town halls supported by the Unlock the Future coalition, mobilising young people around the world for the UN Summit of the Future in September.

Through breakout sessions, students engaged in roundtable discussions on India’s priorities as it prepares to turn 100 in 2047. The students discussed the country’s energy and food systems, health priorities, sustainable cities, the future of workforces and artificial intelligence. “Over 50 per cent of India’s population is below 25 years, and I firmly believe in investing in young people. They are curious, bold, innovative, and bring tremendous energy to the table. Most of them will be there when India turns 100,” said Mr Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and Next Generation India Advisor via a video message. “It’s commendable to see CEEW and the UN Foundation bring together dynamic young leaders.”

Prachi Shevgaonkar, Lead Fellow of the Next Generation India Fellowship, kicks off the first session, ‘Young India’s Role in Shaping the Next Agenda’ at the ‘Youth Sabha 2047: Shaping India’s Future’. In picture (L-R): Dr Arunabha Ghosh, Ms Richa Gupta, Dr Shamika Ravi, Mr Shombi Sharp, Ms Dia Mirza, and Prachi Shevgaonkar.

The Youth Sabha 2047 marks a significant milestone as India lays down a blueprint to become a developed country by 2047. The Youth Sabha brought together 11 Next Generation India Fellows, students, policymakers, government officials, civil society leaders, and diplomats for a day of engaging discussions, high-level panels, and interactive sessions aimed at shaping India’s future with the youth at the centre of it.

“Young people are an unmatched force in tackling a country’s current and future challenges. Their voices and ideas are essential for building a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous nation. The UN Foundation is dedicated to empowering these young minds, ensuring they are integral to decision-making processes. At Youth Sabha 2047, we witnessed an inspiring convergence of young people from across the country to drive progress, foster innovation, and ensure a vibrant and equitable future,” said Amb. Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO, UN Foundation.

“The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals are personal. The triple planetary crisis of climate change crisis, pollution, and biodiversity loss are not abstract terms anymore. We are all experiencing polluted air, frequent flooding, and zoonoses like the COVID-19 pandemic. These force us to ask: How can individual choices and actions propel change?” said MsDia Mirza, actor, producer and UN Secretary-General’s SDG Advocate.

“I represent a small but growing community of artists advocating for changes necessary for creating a healthy planet for all people everywhere. There are many young people in India who still need to be heard. The SDGs can be the guiding principles of how we build businesses, develop as an economy, manufacture, grow and produce,” she added.

“India has the greatest youth generation in history, and we have to tap into this segment. Young people are not ancillary; they’re the here and now and our main focus. A top priority is making sure young people’s ideas and aspirations make it into policymaking and that we engage young minds to be part of the solution. Fortunately, it’s never been easier for young people’s voices to be heard because social media has bridged that gap,” said Mr Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator.

The event also saw the presence of Dr Shamika Ravi, Member, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, Government of India; Mr Rakesh Sharma, cosmonaut and the first Indian in outer space; Dr Arunabha Ghosh, CEO, CEEW; and Ms Richa Gupta, UN Young Leader for the SDGs and CEO, Labhya Foundation.

“When we were in college, the cool kids had guitars and bands. Now, the cool kids in India have start-ups, ideas, and aspirations. Data is important to help connect them to reality. Communicating findings with the next generation is extremely fulfilling. Each of us has to use the tools at our disposal to contribute in whatever little way we can to help the world,” said Dr Shamika Ravi, Member, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, Government of India.

“With more than half of our population under the age of 25, Indian youth are in a unique and powerful position to influence the future on a global level. We just need to be made aware of the changemaker within us. Youth Sabha 2047 has been set up to realise this very vision of youth-led nation building,” said Ms Prachi Shevgaonkar, Next Generation India Lead Fellow.

The Youth Sabha 2047 also unveiled the concept behind an upcoming youth-led dictionary with a visionary art installation, Fabric of the Future, by Gurjeet Singh, a Chandigarh-based artist and Next Generation India Fellow. Singh has worked across mediums, including sculpture, painting, drawing, sound and performances. The installation consists of a two-layered tapestry created from fabrics collected from across India between 2019 and 2024. The piece represents the aspirations of the young through its embroidery. It also hints towards the series of youth consultations the Next Generation India Fellows will lead in the run-up to the launch of a dictionary, India in Future Tense, and the 2025 Our Future India report.

The Next Generation India Fellowship is a partnership between the UN Foundation’s Our Future Agenda programme and CEEW. Launched on the sidelines of India’s G20 Presidency in 2023, the Fellowship puts young people at the forefront of shaping the country’s future and solving the world’s most pressing challenges as they work closely with intergenerational changemakers globally to build consensus around a ‘future agenda’ for India.

 

 

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Kolkata doctor’s rape and murder sparks nationwide protests

rape and murder sparks nationwide protests
The rape and murder of a 31-year-old post-graduate trainee doctor in Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on 9th August has sparked off nationwide protests demanding a fair investigation into the incident and better security in hospitals. Doctors across the country have refused to resume work, except for emergency procedures, as they condemn the brutal rape and murder case.
The chest medicine department student, who was on duty on Thursday night at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, was sexually assaulted before being murdered inside the hospital’s seminar hall, her post-mortem report has revealed.
Protests and candlelight marches by students, doctors, citizens and members of opposition parties are going on in front of the hospital and adjacent areas. Doctors at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College have announced a strike, demanding proper investigation and justice and enhanced security measures on the campus. The protesting doctors said in a statement, “All the interns, house surgeons, and resident doctors of RG Kar have decided to go for a complete cease-work until their demands are met.”
Seeking an official clarification on the status of the investigation and details of the arrested man, the protesting doctors have demanded that the trial be carried out in a fast-track court and the culprit should be given exemplary punishment for the heinous crime at the earliest.
The protesters are also demanding that security measures on the hospital premises should be enhanced by having a higher number of police personnel inside the campus, increasing CCTV cameras with round-the-clock real-time monitoring and restricted entry into areas like doctors’ rooms and seminar halls where nobody without proper uniform and identity card should be allowed.

Protests across India demanding justice

Doctors across India are staging protests demanding justice in Kolkata’s brutal rape and murder case. The ongoing protests have severely affected healthcare services such as outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective surgeries in many government hospitals. Everywhere the scene is similar where there are long queues outside OPDs in government hospitals and surgeries are being rescheduled as junior doctors refuse to work.
PTI Photo

FORDA’s demands

The Federation of Resident Doctors’ Association (FORDA) has stated that the strike will continue until justice is served and their demands are met. These include immediate action on the concerns of residents at RG Kar Medical College, protection against police brutality, respectful treatment of protesting doctors, and justice for the victim’s family.
The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has also called for a nationwide shutdown of OPD services starting August 13.

Lucknow

Resident doctors at medical institutes across Uttar Pradesh staged a protest demanding speedy justice in the rape-murder case. Resident doctors have started a protest march at King George’s Medical University at Uttar Pradesh’s Lucknow with placards in their hands. The protesting doctors have stopped work at outdoor patients’ department (OPD) and elective surgery leaving patients and their families in a helpless condition.
Doctors at Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute and Hospital (KSSSCIH) tied black badges on their wrists while the doctors of Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences are also demanding a speedy probe into the matter. Dr Ritika Ranjan, the president of the resident doctors’ association at KSSSCIH said, “We demand a CBI probe into the case and the implementation of robust security for staff across medical institutes.”

Agra

Doctors also staged protests at Jhansi’s Maharani Laxmibai Medical College, UP University of Medical Sciences in Saifai and SN Medical College of Agra.

Delhi

Doctors in Delhi are staging protests against the incident demanding a CBI probe into the matter and enhanced safety of women doctors in hospitals.The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), which normally handles around 10,000 OPD patients daily, has seen a 20 percent drop in registrations as doctors there took part in the ongoing protests.

Bengaluru

The Karnataka State Chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has demanded a speedy and impartial investigation into the case, and exemplary punishment for the accused. However, as per reports, it is likely that there are more than once accused in this case who have not yet been nabbed.
“We demand that the authorities act with precision and in a time of 48 hours, failing which the IMA will be constrained to initiate nationwide action. An ultimatum of two days is given to arrest the culprits, failing which the IMA will hold nationwide protests,” IMA state president Prof Dr S Srinivas said in a statement on Monday.
Resident doctors from NIMHANS also joined the indefinite protest at the institute’s campus on Monday, demanding justice for the victim. Posters have been issued by the Association of Physicians of India which has urged doctors to wear black badges in solidarity and to display the message in their clinics.

 

Jaipur

Doctors and medical students of Sawai Man Singh Medical College have started protesting against the brutal incident.

Patna

While Junior doctors across West Bengal continued with ceasework on Tuesday, Patna medical students are protesting in OPD over Kolkata doctor’s death and rape case.

Bengal CM’s deadline to Kolkata Police

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday visited the residence of the victim and stating that it feels like a personal loss to her, the CM has said that she will hand over the case to CBI if Kolkata Police fails to crack case by August 18. The CM has also lent support to the ongoing protests by junior doctors and assured that the case would be handled by a fast-track court. She has also said that the accused would be hanged if needed.

Protesting doctors react

However, the agitating junior doctors on Tuesday set a deadline of August 14 for the Kolkata Police to complete their investigation. “Why do they need a deadline till Sunday? We are asking the police to complete their investigation by Wednesday. The ceasework and protest will continue till our demands are met. We have been very clear about our demands. We want a judicial probe into the incident,” a protesting junior doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital said.

Medical College Principal resigns, reappointed by state Govt

Citing defamation on social media, R G Kar Medical College and Hospital’s Principal Dr. Sandip Ghosh resigned on Monday morning, but the West Bengal Government appointed him as the principal of Calcutta National Medical College and Hospital (CNMCH), triggering further outrage from junior doctors, interns and house staffers.

Calcutta High Court slams state Govt

The Calcutta High Court has slammed West Bengal Government for ‘protecting’ the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital Principal Dr Sandip Ghosh. The Chief Justice has questioned the appointment of the principal, who had resigned taking moral responsibility as the head of another government college. The Chief Justice instructed him to submit a leave application by 3 p.m. today or face a court order mandating his removal from the position.

 

 

 

Female Founders Enhancing Education for Girls in India

Female Founders Enhancing Education for Girls in India
Approximately 40% of girls in India face significant obstacles to education, including socio-cultural norms, economic constraints, and inadequate infrastructure.
In line with this, the need for girl-child education has been highlighted in the recent budget. The pro-women and pro-skill development budget is a welcome move, which has the potential to aid millions of girls and women in India. The allocation of Rs 1.48 lakh crore in this fiscal’s education budget marks a 30% increase. This additional funding goes a long way in enabling women to realize their potential in the education and labor markets. Investing in education is central to uplifting women and strengthening rural communities.
There are several women who have established organizations with the aim of transforming the education space for girls in India. Through their unyielding efforts, these female founders are breaking boundaries, empowering communities and making sustainable change.
This article features three exceptional female founders who are doing amazing things to improve girl-child education in India, beginning with Educate Girls.

1. Educate Girls – Safeena Husain

Safeena Husain is the founder of Educate Girls, which has been focusing on improving educational outcomes for girls in rural India. Community mobilization and creating awareness about girls’ education are the main areas of focus for Educate Girls. The innovative concept by Safeena comprises community-based volunteers called Team Balika; people who put all their energy into ensuring the re-enrollment of out-of-school girls and academic support for them. As a result of her leadership, hundreds of thousands of Indian girls were able to get enrolled in school because their learning results improved at Educate Girls.

Safeena-Husain

Key Initiatives

– Educate Girls involves various segments; the local communities and leaders for the purpose of promoting girl child education, by addressing socio-cultural challenges that hinder girls from attending school.
– Team Balika has trained volunteers who are always engaging in direct enrollment of girls into schools and providing support at every step to make sure that they excel academically.

2. Pratham – Dr. Rukmini Banerji

One of the largest non-governmental organizations in India is Pratham, that concentrates on providing quality education to underprivileged children. There has been a focus on girls and it is Dr Rukmini Banerji’s push which has done the same. The emphasis of her work revolves around basic literacy and numeracy, so that girls are equipped with the right skills that will help them do well in school.

Dr-Rukmini-Banerji

Key Initiatives

– The main aim of this initiative is to improve the basic reading and arithmetic competencies among children who will then be able to build upon them as they continue with their learning process.
– Pratham involves local communities in its educational programs, creating an enabling environment for educating girls.

3. K.C. Mahindra Education Trust – Sheetal Mehta

Sheetal Mehta is the trustee of K.C Mahindra Education Trust and she has made great efforts in promoting girl child education under the aegis of Mahindra.She stood for holistic support to girls such as providing books, computer lessons and extra curriculum activities that make them grow academically and personally.

Sheetal Mehta

Key Initiatives

– Underprivileged girls in this program are provided with academic resources, digital materials, and mentorship to help them stay in school and perform well academically.
– These after-school centers hold classes for girls who may have missed something during day time.
These three notable women founders – Safeena Husain, Rukmini Banerji, and Sheetal Mehta – illustrate how education can transform lives and communities across India. Their innovative methods and tireless advocacy efforts for female education have had lasting effects which show that investing in girls’ education is more than just being ethical; it’s pragmatic development imperative. In supporting these leaders, we can look forward to seeing all our daughters gain knowledge, mature up well, and become useful members of society one day.

Karnataka Schools shine at ATL Marathon 2024 spearheaded by Atal Innovation Mission and NITI Aayog

Karnataka Schools shine at ATL Marathon 2024 spearheaded by Atal Innovation Mission and NITI Aayog
Mysuru, India: Mysuru’s Excel Public School (EPS) has created history at the ATL Marathon 2023-24 edition with the highest number of finalists from a single school in the country. The ATL Marathon, spearheaded by Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, in partnership with UNICEF and YuWaah, is a flagship innovation challenge that invites schools to identify community problems and develop innovative solutions in the form of working prototypes. This year’s edition saw 19,700 project submissions nationwide and out of which 500 top innovations were selected as finalists. Karnataka emerged as the leading state in the country with the highest number of selected projects among all states, with 84 selected projects. 11 of these 84 selected projects from the state were from Excel Public School.
The students of EPS will now have the opportunity to participate in the Student Innovator Program, which includes entrepreneurship boot camps and internships with leading corporates and incubation centers in India. They will also be eligible to compete further for grants and seed funds set aside by the MoE for 200 innovators, from the ATL Marathon finalists. EPS has been a regular at the Marathon submitting around 250 projects over the last six years and consistently emerging in the top 500. Last year, two of the school’s innovations went on to receive top honors with its ‘Millet Vending Machine’ being selected at Dell Shepreneur Program for boot camp training and ‘Anytime Education Device’ receiving grant and seed funding from the Ministry of Education.
With an aim to continue its winning streak, this year the school’s project spanned across a diverse range of themes, including agriculture, inclusivity, education and skill development, mobility, disaster management, health, and space. These projects tackle real-world problems with innovative solutions, such as a device for Traffic Rerouting during floods, DIY HAM Radio kits to enable community communication during natural disasters, a solar-powered medicine vending machine to bridge the gap in accessing basic medicine, a revolutionary satellite payload to monitor the environment through diverse sensors, automated agricultural assistance devices, gamified tools to help students build problem-solving skills, and more.
Each of these projects was developed by groups of two to three students from grades IV – X with the help of mentors. The students brainstormed problem statements based on the ATL Marathon’s theme and were divided into teams according to their areas of interest. On an average, each team spent 40-50 hours developing their projects.
These projects were developed at Excel Public School’s Innovation Centre, a 7,000 sq ft space dedicated to fostering student entrepreneurship and innovation. The center acts as an incubation cell and an accelerator providing access to R&D, design, support for prototype development as well as offers both in-house guidance and internships with leading organizations for its student entrepreneurs. The innovation center has partnerships with ISRO, 1 Edtech, Ham Radio India, The New York Academy of Science, and more. With this Innovation Centre, EPS envisions a community of students and future leaders actively working across disciplines to develop solutions to complex real-life problems.
In recognition of EPS’s achievements, Mentors & Teachers, Gopinath Subramaniam, Senior Learning Designer, Chitra Uthaya, Head Learning Events & Assessment, Jyoti Joseph, ATL in-charge at Excel Public School, and the students, Tanvi Girish (Grade XI), Abhinav A (Grade X), and Nandan Hedge (Grade X) will join the 77th Independence Day Celebration in New Delhi.
Commenting on the EPS achievements and the invitation to attend the Independence Day Celebration, Shubham Gupta, Innovation Lead at Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, said “Atal Tinkering Lab at EPS school has produced plenty of innovators and have won many state and national level accolades. This is a result of hardwork of the students, mentors, and ATL incharge. To recognise their efforts three students, their mentors and the ATL incharge have been invited as special guests by the NITI Aayog and the Prime Ministers office for the 78th Independence Day celebration from 12th August to 16th August 2024. As special guests they will be attending the celebrations at the Red Fort and shall visit places of national importance.”
Commenting on the achievement of the students, Mathew KG, Principal, of Excel Public School said, “ “Our students have once again made us proud with their achievement. This is a collective success of all those who fostered their creativity – teachers, mentors, peer groups, and parents. At EPS we are dedicated to empowering students with the knowledge and the skills they need to succeed in the real world. Providing them with opportunities and pushing them to explore their capabilities that ignite their critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.”
Congratulating the students on their achievement Mr. Sudhanva, MD & CEO of Excel group said, “These projects not only highlight the students’ ingenuity but also reflect the school’s dedication to nurturing future innovators and entrepreneurs who will contribute meaningfully to the society. EPS School’s success at the ATL Marathon is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the students, teachers, and the broader school community. I congratulate all the students for the hard work they have put in and wish them a great future ahead.”

 

 

 

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HCL Group’s 48th anniversary celebrated by planting saplings across India

HCL Group’s 48th anniversary celebrated by planting saplings across India
NOIDA, India: HCLFoundation, which delivers the corporate social responsibility agenda of HCLTech in India, today undertook the plantation of 48,000 native saplings to mark the 48th anniversary of HCL Group. The plantation drive was conducted across several cities such as Noida, Bengaluru, Nagpur, Chennai, Madurai and Lucknow.
HCLTech employees, along with their families, non-profit collaborators, members of the community and women’s collectives participated in the initiative.
“The successful completion of this extensive plantation drive reflects our ongoing efforts to support environmental conservation and sustainable development. By planting 2.8 Mn saplings till date, HCLFoundation’s efforts have resulted in bringing 232.9 acres under native plantation, more than 80 billion liters of water being harvested and thus creating a habitat for biodiversity. We are thankful for every participant who supported us in contributing towards our mission of a sustainable future,” said Dr. Nidhi Pundhir, Senior Vice President, Global CSR, HCLTech and Director, HCLFoundation.
HCL Foundation delivers the corporate social responsibility agenda of HCL Tech in India. The Foundation contributes to national and international development goals by investing in long-term sustainable programs and special initiatives with thematic focus on education, nurturing grassroots sports, health and sanitation, skill development and livelihood, environment and disaster risk reduction and response management. To ensure equitable development, child protective strategies, inclusion and gender transformative approaches are at the core of all the programs of the Foundation.

 

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Shri Jagannath Mandir Organises Health Camp in Delhi

Shri Jagannath Mandir Organises Health Camp in Delhi
New Delhi, India: Seeking to spread awareness about the need to detect potential health issues at an early stage, Shri Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, New Delhi, in collaboration with the ‘Illness to Wellness’ campaign, a national initiative promoting healthy living, and Yolohealth, a healthcare technology company, conducted a two-day health camp for devotees. The camp was held at the Mandir complex on August 9 and August 10, 2024.
At the camp, over 210 people were tested across 22 parameters, which included blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI checks, and many other invasive and non-invasive tests. Through the proactive approach of preventive health testing, these individuals are given an opportunity to take control of their lifestyles and prevent further complications.
The health check-up event held at Shri Jagannath Mandir marked yet another event in a series of highly successful camps undertaken through the collaborative efforts of Illness to Wellness and Yolohealth. This initiative was launched on March 28, 2024, and since then, the campaign has swiftly gained traction, with eight camps being held over the past four months. Preceding this event, health camps were held at prominent locations, including Janpath, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Birla Mandir, Aggarwal Digambar Jain Mandir in Connaught Place, Priority Health Care in Green Park, Shri Sai Bhakta Samaj and Guru Harkrishan Public School in Vasant Vihar.
Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM National CSR Council, said, “The Illness to Wellness campaign continues to make a meaningful impact through these health camps. In a relatively short period of time, we have been able to reach out to a significant number of people in religious establishments, schools, marketplaces and much more with the objective of generating awareness on a host of health parameters, enabling our citizens to take charge of their health and prevent possible complications. I am certain that such initiatives will contribute towards creating a healthier society,and thereby, a more productive nation.”
Mr. KD Biswal, General Secretary, Shri Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, New Delhi, said, “In today’s age, it is extremely important for individuals to get themselves screened regularly for potential health issues. The two-day health camp benefitted devotees who would have otherwise overlooked the need to get themselves tested. We are delighted with the response we have received for this health camp and are planning to conduct more initiatives of this nature in future.”
In the camp, Yolohealth used its trademark product HealthATM to show how technology has evolved in delivering accurate health assessment reports. These HealthATM machines are designed to offer primary and preventive healthcare services with the goal of ensuring easy public access. It is an aggregation of US FDA/EU certified IoT-enabled medical devices combined with Yolohealth’s proprietary HIPPA compliant software backend and cloud-centric platform supporting tele-medicine facility. This pioneering endeavour enabled individuals to take stock of their health and make well-informed health decisions.
The ‘Illness to Wellness’ campaign was launched in 2014 and remains committed to promoting health and well-being through empowering, educating, collaborating and adopting of sustainable health practices. Over the years, it has aimed to maximise outreach and impact, from organising camps and awareness campaigns to holding regular webinars on key health topics and developments- with the clear purpose of raising awareness and providing motivation and remedies.

 

 

 

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