Kolkata, 28th January 2025: The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Kolkata, announced the launch of the “Finishing School Program on 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing Technology” on Monday, 27th January 2025 at The Sonnet, Kolkata. The program is designed to empower engineering students from West Bengal and Bihar with advanced skills in additive manufacturing, fostering entrepreneurship and employment generation. It marks a significant step towards bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements while creating sustainable employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for the youth of West Bengal and Bihar.

The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Smt. Tulika Pandey, Scientist ‘G’ and Group Coordinator, HRD, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India; Prof. Tapas Chakraborty, Vice-Chancellor, MAKAUT, Government of West Bengal; Prof. P. M. Pandey, IHFC Chair and Professor at IIT Delhi; Prof. Amitava Nag, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Central Institute of Technology, Assam; Shri Sanjeet Kumar, Industry Expert and DGM at SANDHAR; Dr. Ch A S Murty, Scientist ‘G’, CISO & Director, C-DAC Kolkata; and Shri Asit Kumar Singh, Chief Investigator of the Project, C-DAC Kolkata.

The program aims to train 16,000 engineering graduates and final-year students through full-time courses with an additional 4,000 students participating in boot camp programs. It also focuses on establishing eight advanced laboratories to support start-ups, SMEs and large industries while delivering comprehensive product prototypes with technical documentation, material specifications and cost analysis.

With India’s 3D printing market projected for a staggering growth, this initiative addresses the increasing demand for skilled professionals in sectors such as construction, automotive and healthcare. By integrating technical skill development with entrepreneurship opportunities, the program aims to prepare students for the shift towards mass customization and faster production cycles demanded by modern industries.

The program also emphasises the creation of multimedia-based educational resources, a design repository on 3D printing and additive manufacturing and a centralised project monitoring web portal to ensure seamless implementation. Workshops with industry stakeholders, NABARD, industrial banks, placement cells and corporate entities will further enhance job placement and entrepreneurial support.

C-DAC Kolkata is collaborating with institutions including MAKAUT, Nadia; Dr. B.C. Ray Engineering College, Durgapur; NIT Patna, College of Engineering & Management, Kolaghat; Siliguri Institute of Technology; Darbhanga College of Engineering, Darbhanga; Bhagalpur College of Engineering, Bhagalpur; and Cooch Behar Government Engineering College, to provide sector-specific training and support for engineering students. The initiative also promotes cultural and heritage preservation by enabling the production and marketing of heritage-inspired products using 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies.

While delivering the welcome address, Dr. Ch A S Murty, Scientist ‘G’, CISO & Director, C-DAC Kolkata, said, “This initiative is a crucial step in bridging the gap between academia and industry, empowering the next generation of engineers with skills that will shape the future of technology. I’d like to extend a special thanks to Mrs. Tulika Pandey from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India, for her unwavering support in making this initiative possible. We aim to train 16,000 engineering graduates from West Bengal and Bihar over the next five years, with an additional 4,000 students through boot camps. State-of-the-art laboratories will be established at partner institutions to support training, innovation and entrepreneurship. These labs will serve as hubs for students, startups, SMEs and industries to develop product prototypes and gain hands-on experience. The program will also include modules on entrepreneurship, job creation and workshops with industry stakeholders. We will work closely with corporate entities to ensure job placement opportunities for students. Moreover, we will create multimedia-based educational content to support the program across all eight labs, ensuring seamless training delivery and monitoring. India’s 3D printing market is projected to reach $2.76 billion by 2026, driven by industries like construction, automation and healthcare. This program prepares students to meet the emerging demands of these sectors.”

Alluding to Additive Manufacturing in India’s Industrial and Educational Framework, Smt. Tulika Pandey, Scientist ‘G’ and Group Coordinator, HRD, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India, said, “As the world transitions to Industry 4.0, we must ensure that India builds a skilled workforce proficient in 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies. To make this accessible and cost-effective, the government has allocated ₹50 crores for initiatives focused on Eastern India, including Kolkata and Bihar. Our aim is to integrate 3D printing into academia, allowing students to experiment, innovate, and collaborate with industries to bridge the gap between research and product development. We urge industries to partner with academia to provide students exposure to real-world business challenges. This initiative will act as a finishing school, equipping students with skills that lead to immediate employability. Globally, the additive manufacturing market is set to grow exponentially, and India must move swiftly to lead this space. Beyond designs, we must study materials, explore cost-efficient innovations, and address challenges like providing affordable housing and tools for rural India. Industry collaboration is key to realizing the transformative potential of this technology. 3D printing has evolved from niche applications to disruptive capabilities across healthcare, agriculture, and industrial domains. As we face competition from home-grown innovations, this is the time for industries, academia and the government to work together to ensure India leads the additive manufacturing revolution.”

Prof. Tapas Chakraborty, Vice-Chancellor, MAKAUT, Government of West Bengal, said, “As the only Technical University in West Bengal, affiliating nearly 200 engineering, pharmacy and management colleges, MAKAUT plays a vital role in the region. However, we face challenges such as declining enrollment in core engineering fields like mechanical engineering and a lack of suitable industry internships for final-year students in this region, driving many students to seek opportunities elsewhere. This initiative offers a transformative solution, not just for West Bengal but for the entire Northeast and neighbouring regions. MAKAUT is committed to providing full support to ensure its success.”

Prof. P. M. Pandey, IHFC Chair and Professor at IIT Delhi, said, “Additive manufacturing has emerged as one of the most disruptive technologies in the current manufacturing landscape. In the context of the latest manufacturing advancements—Industry 4.0 and even Industry 5.0—this technology plays a pivotal role. Industry 4.0, centered around cyber-physical systems, envisions a digital manufacturing enterprise. In this framework, additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is a ground-breaking tool. Its potential lies in its ability to produce highly customized components, especially for small batch sizes or unique, customer-specific and even patient-specific requirements. This transformative technology fits seamlessly into the Industry 4.0 ecosystem, where it integrates with digital design concepts, big data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, collaborative robotics, industrial IoT and virtual and augmented reality. It is rightly regarded as one of the most important enablers of the next-generation manufacturing revolution. I must also highlight that this initiative, sponsored by MeitY and executed by CDAC Kolkata, comes at an opportune moment. Under the visionary leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi Ji, the ‘Make in India’ mission and the New Education Policy have placed significant emphasis on skilling and innovation. This program aligns perfectly with these goals, empowering the youth with knowledge and expertise in the digital design and manufacturing domain. I firmly believe this initiative will not only help our industries but will also contribute to society by bridging the gap between modern technology and practical implementation.”

Shri Asit Kumar Singh, the Chief Investigator of this Project, C-DAC, Kolkata, further elaborated “During this program, the development of products will be carried out in consultation with industry stakeholders to ensure their practical applicability and market relevance. This collaborative approach aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs, fostering innovation and enabling the creation of solutions that address real-world challenges effectively.”

Hyderabad, 28th January, 2025: Surgeons at CARE Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad, have successfully treated Mr. Shiva Kumar, a victim of the recent robbery incident in Bidar, Karnataka. Following a complex and critical surgery, Mr. Shiva Kumar has made remarkable progress and is being discharged today. The incident involved two unidentified assailants who fired at Mr. Shiva Kumar and his colleague before fleeing with a trunk containing a significant amount of cash.

Mr. Shiva Kumar was rushed to CARE Hospitals following a gunshot wound sustained during the robbery. The entry wound was located in the left upper chest, with an exit wound in the left flank. Upon arrival, he was attended to by a multidisciplinary team of specialists who conducted a comprehensive evaluation, including a CT scan of his chest and abdomen.

The assessment revealed extensive internal injuries caused by the bullet, which had passed through the left lung, punctured the diaphragm and stomach, and caused injuries to the spleen and kidney. An emergency laparotomy was performed to stabilize his condition. The surgical team meticulously repaired the diaphragm and stomach while successfully salvaging both the spleen and kidney.

Dr. Mustafa Hussain Razvi, Consultant General Surgery CARE Hospitals Hitech City, who led the surgical team, said, “Mr. Shiva Kumar’s case was complex due to the extent of internal injuries caused by the gunshot. Our focus was on saving his vital organs while minimizing long-term complications. Over the course of his treatment in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU), Mr. Shiva Kumar demonstrated steady recovery and resilience. He now heads home in stable condition, surrounded by the unwavering support of his loved ones. It is truly gratifying to see him regain his strength and be ready for discharge.”

Bidar District In-charge Minister Eshwar Khandre, Corporator Madhapur Mr. Jagdeeshwar Goud, and Shilpa Sharma, IAS Deputy Commissioner, extended their support and visited Mr. Shiva Kumar during his treatment, reflecting the community’s concern and solidarity.

Speaking about the successful treatment, Mr.Nilesh Gupta Chief Operating Officer CARE Hospitals, Hitech city, said, “The journey to recovery in cases involving complex injuries requires precision, expertise, and a compassionate approach. We are delighted to see Mr. Shiva Kumar regain his strength, and this milestone serves as a testament to our team’s dedication and advanced medical capabilities.“

The discharge of Mr. Shiva Kumar marks a triumph of medical excellence and resilience. CARE Hospitals remains committed to its mission of delivering cutting-edge healthcare and compassionate support to all its patients.

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, but detecting it in its early stages can be challenging. This is one of the reasons why many women lose their lives to cervical cancer. The primary cause of cervical cancer is the lack of Pap smear and HPV screenings. Due to the lack of awareness among women, only 1% of them in India undergo regular screenings. Keeping these factors in mind, Fortis Greater Noida has initiated Cervical Cancer Awareness Month to educate women and provide more information about this disease.

Dr. Priya Bansal from the Clinical-Surgical Oncology Department at Fortis Greater Noida explains, “Often, women lack accurate information about this disease. Very few are aware that a safe and effective vaccine is available to prevent cervical cancer. Additionally, regular screenings are crucial for women aged 25 to 65 years.”

Several myths about cervical cancer are still prevalent in society. A common belief is that it only affects elderly women, whereas the truth is that it can occur as early as 35 years of age. Another myth is that it primarily affects women from lower socio-economic backgrounds. The reality is that this disease can impact women from all sections of society.

Experts at Fortis Greater Noida believe that taking preventive steps against cervical cancer is crucial. Vaccination for boys and girls aged 9 to 26 years is highly recommended. Moreover, women aged 25 to 65 years should undergo regular Pap smear tests. Using barrier contraceptives (such as condoms) and limiting the number of sexual partners can help prevent HPV infections. Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and maintaining a nutritious diet are also vital preventive measures.

Dr. Bansal emphasizes that awareness and timely screenings can prevent cervical cancer. This is not just a health issue but a significant concern tied to the happiness and well-being of women and their families.

Fortis Greater Noida offers facilities for the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer. With expert care, timely screening, and vaccination are possible. Stay informed and take the necessary steps to protect yourself from cervical cancer.

Mumbai, 28^th January, 2025: In recent years, we have explored the evolving trends in the security landscape. As technology has advanced, the focus has broadened from merely securing our world—to making it smarter. AIoT (AI-powered Internet of Things) is leading this transformation, revolutionizing industries beyond security. This year, we dive deeper into the trends driving AIoT, showing how they are reshaping industries and fostering a more efficient, secure, and sustainable future.

1. Perception technologies are adapting to varied environments and situational needs

Perception technologies are continuing to evolve to operate efficiently in diverse conditions. AI Image Signal Processing (AI-ISP) technology, for example, has already set a high bar on image quality performance in low-light conditions by significantly reducing image noise and addressing motion blur. For large-scale monitoring scenarios that require wide angles and detailed images, Ultra High Definition (UHD) technologies are becoming the norm. They offer faster frame rates, improved contrast, and richer details, making it easier to capture and analyze vast, complex scenes.

Beyond the visible light spectrum, millimeter-wave radars see through smoke, dust, and obstacles, providing precise speed and direction measurements widely used in traffic management. In noisy, harsh industrial settings with continuous operations, meanwhile, sound wave sensing enables non-invasive equipment monitoring for early fault detection, reducing downtime.

2. AIoT is bringing digitalization to life in diverse industrial applications

Companies are increasingly adopting AIoT technologies to address specific operational challenges and speed up digital transformation. In retail, where loss prevention and maintaining a competitive edge is crucial, AIoT devices now provide valuable data such as inventory tracking, foot traffic, queue lengths, and area density. This information helps stores tailor their offerings, optimize operations, and mitigate losses. In the energy sector, meanwhile, safety is a non-negotiable requirement. AIoT solutions, such as automated personal protective equipment (PPE) checks, now use AI to streamline the inspection of proper safety gears, reducing manual oversight and enhancing workplace safety.

Furthermore, the development of large vision, audio, and fiber-optic models is being tailored with industry-specific designs, algorithm optimization, and model simplification. This trend aims to create lightweight, vertical-specific AIoT deployments that are practical and effective in real-world scenarios.

Additionally, the increasing adoption of generative AI is adding an extra layer of ease and efficiency. Multimodal large models, which integrate text with visual data, make it much simpler to search and interact with information such as when people are locating a particular package in a logistics center. By providing user-friendly text-based interfaces, these models are delivering increasingly rapid and seamless access to needed data, streamlining decision-making and operational processes.

3. There is a significant move towards open and collaborative ecosystems

As the demand for tailored AIoT solutions in fragmented industrial scenarios has increased, no single company can meet all the user demands on their own. Open platforms and tools are therefore becoming essential. These enable solution providers to seamlessly integrate third-party applications in order to accelerate digital transformation across industries.

To further support this, standardized protocols are simplifying device communication, reducing development time and costs. These protocols make it easier for all types of devices to work together, addressing issues like configuration complexity, scalability, and network security.

This collaborative environment helps developers and integrators create flexible and effective AIoT solutions. Simple to use AI training platforms are now becoming widely available, which allow non-specialist systems integrators to train and deploy their own custom AI models. Users can easily combine and customize these AI models for tasks like object detection and audio classification, enhancing the functionality of their solutions and, therefore, the value they can add in sectors ranging from industrial processes to home automation.

4. Building cybersecurity trust through proactive strategies and cross-industry partnerships

Cybersecurity remains a critical concern in the expanding AIoT landscape. Increasingly, companies are adopting proactive, yet responsive, cybersecurity approaches, which focus on rapid threat detection and effective response. By partnering with specialized security testing firms, they are able to evaluate products against a wide range of standards, identifying and tackling vulnerabilities early to prevent exploitation. Continuous testing ensures updates and enhancements consistently meet the highest security benchmarks.

Transparent communication has become crucial for openly addressing security concerns. Increasingly, organizations are setting up security response centers and deploying robust vulnerability management programs. Again, close collaboration is key to this trend, with installers, system integrators, and customers all working together to ensure secure deployment and use, leading to a more resilient and trusted operational framework.

5. AIoT becoming a game-changing catalyst for sustainability

Organizations worldwide are seeking more sustainable ways to operate and conduct business, and many are turning to AIoT technologies to do this. By augmenting connected sensors with AI algorithms, AIoT is helping to optimize resource use, cut energy consumption, improve waste management, and boost operational efficiency in numerous industries.

In building management, for example, AIoT systems are being used to automatically adjust energy use based on occupancy and weather conditions, leading to significant cost savings and lower carbon emissions. In transport, the technology is being used to optimize traffic flow and reduces congestion, cutting carbon emissions in the process. Similarly, the combination of millimeter-wave radar and water-level detection cameras allows for real-time analysis of water quality and flood control. Advancements such as these highlight AIoT’s potential as a powerful tool for positive change, benefiting both people and the planet.

Indian Institute of Management Bodh Gaya concluded its annual cultural and sports fest ELEGANTE 8.0 on 26th January. The event included students from prestigious institutions such as the NSIT Patna, IMI Kolkata, St. Xavier’s Patna and IIM Ranchi. The theme of this year’s event is “Abhyudaya” meaning progress, emphasising the institution’s growth.

The festivities commenced on January 24 with an inauguration ceremony facilitated by Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, and the Hon’ble Chief Guest, Shri Anand Kumar, IPS, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Gaya. During his address, the Chief Guest emphasised mindfulness, a core value of the institute, and its importance in all aspects of life.

Dr. Sreelekha Mishra, Chairperson of Students’ Affairs, delivered the welcome speech, thanking the students, committees, and clubs for their efforts in organising the fest. The ceremony also introduced the participating sports teams and officially declared the fest open.

The first day of the annual fest included sports events with participation from leading institutes: IIM Ranchi (50), St. Xavier’s Patna (70), NIT Patna (70), IMI Kolkata (30), and NSIT Patna (20). In addition, the day included an online gaming competition, a simulation of the International Court of Justice, and creative workshops like pottery and painting. The evening concluded with cultural performances, showcasing the diverse talents of the participants.

January 25 continued with sports competitions and events like Quizzilla, Policy Case Competitions, and a painting competition. The day also featured the NAVYATA fashion show, with participation from the Indian Institute of Design and Technology (IDT), Muzaffarpur, Bihar, NSIT Patna, and IIM Bodh Gaya. The evening showcased solo singing performances followed by a performance by IIM Bodh Gaya’s official musical band, The Story Tellers. The day concluded with a live musical performance by the band Azaadi.

On the final day, January 26, the CSR Committee of IIM Bodh Gaya organized EduRun, a marathon aimed at raising awareness about rural education and highlighting the importance of collective efforts in promoting accessible education for all. The event saw participation from over 800 individuals, including students, faculty members, officers and cadets from the Bihar Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (BIPARD) and Officers Training Academy (OTA).

The marathon started from IIM Bodh Gaya’s Academic Block to Maya Sarovar Lake through the Magadh University campus and back to the Academic Block, covering a total distance of 8.5 km. Refreshments (food and beverages) were available at all stages of the run. The initiative was supported by the State Bank of India (SBI), Coca-Cola, Union Bank, and Raasta Café.

The celebrations started with a Republic Day observance, which included solemnly hoisting the national flag and singing the national anthem. The day unfolded with sports matches and cultural programs, culminating in a valedictory ceremony. The Hon’ble Director and Mr. Kumar Anurag, IAS, Municipal Commissioner, Gaya recognized the achievements of students in various sports such as cricket, football, basketball, table tennis, throwball, badminton, chess, and volleyball, followed by the cultural prize distribution. A lively DJ night and dance performances in the evening concluded the festivities.