University of Southampton Appoints Director to Enhance Learning & Teaching

Dr Sagaya Amalathas

Mumbai, 24th Feb:- The University of Southampton has appointed Dr Sagaya Amalathas as Director of Learning and Teaching at its Delhi campus.

Dr Amalathas will be responsible for delivering outstanding education and a distinctively Southampton student experience at the University’s new campus in India. She will take up her post in June 2025, ahead of the first students joining in August this year.

University of Southampton Delhi will become India’s first global top 100 university when the campus in Gurugram opens, providing high-quality education rooted in research excellence, innovation, and real-world opportunities for Indian students. SouthampDr Sagaya Amalathaston is the first university to receive approval to set up a campus by the University Grants Commission, India’s national Higher Education regulator.

Dr Amalathas is the Head of Computer Science and an Associate Professor at the University of Southampton’s Malaysia campus. She successfully led the graduation of the campus’s first Computer Science cohort. She has led higher education initiatives, conducted significant research, and contributed to the computing industry. Her expertise has been critical in designing, developing, and implementing applications used in Malaysian agriculture, medicine, and telecommunications.

Dr Amalathas said: “I have a strong passion for curriculum innovation and am excited about developing a creative and inclusive learning environment for all students at our Delhi campus.

“This is an exciting time for the University and having successfully launched and developed academic programs in Malaysia, I am eager to contribute to the success of the Delhi campus, leveraging my dedication to education and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

“Education is a transformative force and as Director of Learning and Teaching I will inspire students and staff to achieve excellence.”

Professor Andrew Atherton, Vice-President International and Engagement at the University of Southampton added: “The Director of Learning and Teaching is a key strategic role, providing leadership for the educational activity taking place at the University of Southampton Delhi.

“Working closely with others, Dr Amalathas will ensure our campus curriculum plan reflects both the University’s high-quality approach to delivering educational excellence and the University Grants Commission’s regulations. We welcome Sagaya to the University of Southampton Delhi, and look forward to working on this exciting and transformational initiative.”

Medical Miracle: 100-Year-Old Man Walks Again After Risky Hip Surgery

Dr Rahul Sharma is a senior orthopedic surgeon and did his prestigious AOA Australian Orthopaedic Association fellowship from Sydney (Australia). He spent some time in Rothman Hospital in Philadelphia (USA).

There was a time when old people particularly those nearing 100 years of age were left to depend on others for the rest of their lives or fend for themselves – without any treatment and had no option but to live with agonizing and unbearable pain due to blood loss, blood clots, bed sores and other complications after falls and fractures – a fairly common occurrence in old age. Not anymore, due to the latest advancements in medical science.

Significantly almost 50% of women and 20% of men over the age of 50 have osteoporosis, which is a significant risk factor for hip bone fractures in older adults in India. It’s estimated that by 2026, the number of hip fractures in India will increase significantly, with around 600,000 osteoporotic hip fractures occurring annually.

According to studies hip bone fractures are the cause behind 15% to 36% mortality rates. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma revealed that the overall 2-year mortality rate for hip fracture patients in India is around 11.2%. Many older adults in India face significant barriers to accessing timely and adequate healthcare for hip fractures, including limited availability of orthopedic services and rehabilitation facilities. Hence, there is a need for standardized, effective, and multidisciplinary management approaches for the treatment and rehabilitation of hip fracture patients in India.

According to Dr Rahul Sharma, a senior orthopaedic surgeon, “A hip fracture can be a complex and dangerous problem for people who are older than 65 years of age. They can’t stand, walk or put weight on a broken hip. They also cannot prevent hip bone fractures due to sudden falls or other trauma because they can’t plan the cause behind them. It usually takes at least a few months and at times a year after treatment to notice improvements and fully recover from a broken hip depending upon factors like the age of the patient, his/her overall health, what caused the fracture, the type of surgery performed, and other injuries suffered”.

“Any health condition that affects the balance, stability, or ability to walk can increase the risk of breaking a hip. The older you are, the longer it takes your body to heal any injury, and that’s especially true when you have a major hip fracture. The surgery to treat a hip fracture and recovery from it is much harder in the case of older adults”, he says.

“The risk of falls and fractures is even more profound in older adults, particularly those nearing 100 years of age who are more susceptible and have a higher risk of falls, fractures, and injuries due to age-related reduced mobility, balance, and strength, osteoporosis, dementia, cognitive impairment, reduced vision, hearing, and sensory perception as well as chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease”, he adds.

Even extrinsic factors like slippery floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting and footwear with slippery soles or poor traction as well as medications that cause dizziness, and drowsiness can increase the risk of falls.

As a result, falls and fractures lead to loss of independence, decline in mobility, chronic pain, life-threatening conditions, and reduced quality of life. Hip fractures not only drastically affect the older adult’s quality of life but also that of their caregivers, leading to financial burdens and increased care requirements. Hip fractures impose a significant

economic burden on individuals, families, and the healthcare system in India. Many older adults in

India faces challenges in accessing timely and appropriate healthcare for hip fractures. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma, only 16.1% of centenarian patients were able to walk outdoors one year after surgery, while 83.9% had to stay indoors.

Hip fractures in older adults are a significant public health concern in India, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and the healthcare system. As per another estimate, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men above the age of 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures in their lifetime. In the years to come, the number of patients with hip fractures in India is expected to rise due to the growing population of aging people, and women in particular are more likely to experience hip fractures than men.

As a result, older adults nearing 100 years of age require prompt and effective management of hip fractures to minimize the mortality rate and improve the quality of life. Hip replacements are usually safe surgeries which usually take one to two hours. Most people regain their mobility as well as range of motion and experience a dramatic decrease in pain and stiffness after a hip replacement. A hip replacement usually makes it easier to walk, climb stairs, and do other physical activities. If all goes well, a patient may be able to use the hip, walk, move, sit down, stand up, go up or down the stairs, go to the washroom, bathe, shower, and get dressed without any restrictions in six to 12 weeks. During a hip replacement, the surgeon removes a part of the bone and cartilage from the existing hip joint and replaces it with a prosthesis usually made of metal, plastic, or ceramic.

A living example is S C Kapur, a 100-year-old man who suffered a medical emergency and acute unbearable pain due to a major hip joint fracture after a fall in his house. He was admitted to the hospital where Dr Rahul Sharma a senior orthopaedic surgeon and joint replacement expert advised him an immediate and elective hip bone replacement surgery which was the only solution for his type of fracture, and associated comorbidities.

It was not an easy decision, and a multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, anesthetists, physicians, cardiologists, and intensive care specialists were required to care for the patient during the surgery. It seemed to be a big and challenging task considering the patient’s age and precarious medical condition, but Dr Rahul Sharma and his team accepted the challenge and successfully performed the complex hip arthroplasty surgery (joint replacement surgery) which lasted nearly 90 minutes. The surgery was done with the highest standards of asepsis to prevent infection.

After the meticulous surgery, the patient was discharged from the hospital after about 3 days. He is now undergoing rehabilitation and can walk comfortably. According to Dr Rahul Sharma an expert in hip, knee, and shoulder surgeries and founder of Life in Motion Clinic who practices in Sawan Neelu Angel’s Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, “A successful surgery with good outcomes not only gives satisfaction to the medical team but also installs the faith in the patient over medical advancements. The geriatric population of our society is the most sensitive class that needs and deserves a better medical care facility to achieve a better life.

This story is a testament to the tireless efforts of doctors who constantly work for the betterment of their patients and strive to give them a better lifestyle without the fear of surgery that makes them lead a miserable life dependent on others.

Samsung Galaxy S25, Powered by Micron, Elevates AI Experiences

Bangalore, India, Feb. 24, 2025 — Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU) announced today that its industry-leading low-power double data rate 5X (LPDDR5X) memory and universal flash storage (UFS) 4.0 are featured in select devices in the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, which introduces multimodal AI agents to pioneer intuitive and context-aware mobile AI experiences. Additionally, Micron is now shipping its most power-efficient LPDDR5X memory ever to the market for the first time, offering users more than 10% power improvement.[1] With its One UI 7 update, the Galaxy S25 series is a true AI companion that provides personalized experiences tailored to users’ unique needs, powered by multimodal AI agents that seamlessly interpret text, speech, images, and videos.

Micron Samsung

As smartphone AI capabilities grow in sophistication, processing is increasingly executed directly on edge devices rather than relying only on the cloud. This demands more high-performance memory and storage than ever to accommodate AI models and datasets on the devices. Power efficiency is also critical, with over 70% of smartphone users stating that battery life is the most important feature they consider when purchasing a phone.

“We’ve optimized Micron’s mobile portfolio to deliver the power efficiency, high performance, and large capacity needed to propel the next wave of AI innovation in flagship smartphones,” said Mark Montierth, corporate vice president and general manager of Micron’s Mobile Business Unit. “Samsung is setting a new standard for AI phones, enabling them to be true AI companions with context-aware and personalized mobile experiences powered by Micron’s leadership memory and storage.”

Micron’s high-bandwidth LPDDR5X memory and advanced UFS 4.0 storage are embedded into select Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 devices, accelerating real-time AI processing at consumers’ fingertips. Micron’s UFS 4.0 storage is available in high capacities, allowing data to be stored locally instead of in the cloud, providing greater security for personal data. Additionally, the power efficiency gains of Micron’s latest LPDDR5X are attributed to its advanced 1β (1-beta) process technology and design optimizations, enabling it to operate at voltages lower than the industry standard — resulting in longer battery life.

“The Galaxy S25 series represents the next evolution of the mobile AI era — one that brings a more natural, context-aware, and personalized experience to users, redefining how they interact with their devices and by extension, the world around them,” said Inkang Song, vice president and head of the technology strategy team at Samsung. “Through our close collaboration, Micron’s mobile solutions provide the foundation that powers these transformative AI capabilities, driving innovation and shaping the future of mobile AI technology.”

Samsung Revamps Smartphone Service Centers with Premium Design & Excellence

Samsung

Bengaluru, India, February 24, 2025: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, is set to elevate its smartphone customer service experience with a comprehensive redesign of its service centres. This initiative aims to establish a seamless service-to-sales journey, reinforcing Samsung’s commitment to superior after-sales support with a strong focus on premium customer care.

Designed to deliver an integrated omni-channel experience, the remodelled service centres incorporate advanced digitalised processes to cater to the evolving expectations of Samsung’s young and dynamic customer base. They not only boast a diverse product portfolio but also lead the way in technological innovation with advanced diagnostic tools that detect issues with pinpoint accuracy.

The upgraded centres break away from traditional layouts, introducing plush, sofa-style seating equipped with inbuilt wireless charging stations to create a lounge-like ambience. Reimagined accessory walls showcase Samsung’s extensive range of wearables, while ultra-large digital screens feature the latest product innovations, offering visitors an immersive experience.

“Over the decades, we have expanded a robust network of service centres to support our existing customer base which is concurrent to the needs of our sales partners. As consumer expectations evolve every day, we wanted to transform these spaces by infusing youthful and efficient design elements to make them more appealing, while keeping traditional customer needs in mind. At the heart of this is Samsung’s commitment to providing a premium experience to its customers,” said Sunil Cutinha, VP, Customer Satisfaction, Samsung India.

To enhance customer interactions, dedicated kiosks will enable visitors to connect with product support specialists, explore new product launches, and stay updated on exclusive offers and discounts. An online appointment booking system will allow customers to schedule their visits in advance, ensuring a hassle-free experience with minimal wait times.

Samsung currently operates more than 3,000 service touch points across India including physical service centres, resident engineers and collection points. The roll-out of the service centre redesign will be implemented in phases across key cities, ensuring an elevated customer experience nationwide.

CIEL HR Survey: India’s Institutional Investor Sector Sees 69% Headcount Growth in 2 Years

CIEL logo

National, 24 February 2025: India’s market capitalization has risen over the past decade, growing from US$1.2 trillion to US$5.2 trillion. This growth has spurred significant expansion in the institutional investor sector. According to CIEL HR Services’ latest report, CIEL Works, titled- Institutional Investors – Talent Trends and Insights, India has witnessed a notable 69% increase in headcount within the sector over the last two years.

The study encompasses 16000+ executives from 80 companies in the investor sector and provides valuable insights into key areas such as gender diversity, tenure in a firm, roles in demand, and career progression.

One notable finding regarding talent mobility revealed that only 17% of professionals, including fund managers, portfolio managers, and senior analysts, are promoted from within their organizations, while 83% are hired externally. This presents an opportunity for companies in the sector to innovate their practices around internal career progression and enhance their work environment which makes their talent thrive.

The sector has made strides in workforce diversity, with women’s participation at 27% of the overall workforce. However, representation in leadership roles remains a challenge, with women holding just 14% of senior positions.

Commenting on the findings, Mr. K Pandiarajan – Executive Director and Chairman of CIEL HR said, “India’s trajectory towards becoming a $7 trillion economy by 2030 is a reflection of its burgeoning market size and a testament to the rapid transformation taking place across its financial landscape. With an expected growth rate of 6.1% over the next five years and positioning to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027, India’s institutional investor sector is at the forefront of this evolution. The sector is experiencing a radical shift, with both established players and new entrants driving innovation in investment strategies and financial products. This dynamic growth signals a pivotal moment for institutional investors to harness emerging opportunities, both within India and globally.”

Adding to this Aditya Narayan Mishra, MD & CEO of CIEL HR stated, “The sector employs crème de la crème talent in the country. With our economy growing at a rapid pace, the demand for these roles will surge, further widening the demand-supply gap. We anticipate skilled

professionals to return to India from global markets while also drawing expatriates to the country.”

Other Key Findings from CIEL HR – Institutional Investors Talent Trends and Insights Report

  •  Approximately 25% of the workforce in the Institutional Investors sector has switched jobs in the past year, emphasizing the dynamic and competitive nature of the industry.
  •  The average tenure across the Institutional Investors sector is 3 years, reflecting high mobility and talent competition.
  •  Professionals in the industry often hold advanced qualifications, including MBAs from top Indian and international business schools, as well as prestigious CA / CFAs.

BML Munjal University’s Propel Pitchfest25 Fuels India’s Startup Innovation

BML Munjal University

Gurgaon, 24th February 2025: BML Munjal University (BMU) successfully hosted Propel Pitchfest25, the flagship annual event organized by ACIC-BMU Foundation (ACIC-BMU), Atal Community Innovation Centre at BML Munjal University in collaboration with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, bringing together India’s most promising entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders.

With a USD 1 million (₹8+ Cr) investment pool, supported by the Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) and MeitY GENESIS Scheme, the event provided crucial` financial backing to emerging ventures.

The startups that participated were from various sectors like Deeptech, Medtech, Textile Innovation, Sustainability, and Social Impact.

Investors include Indian Angel Network, India Accelerator, Pontaq VC, Sanchi Connect, Foxhog Ventures, JITO, Campus Fund, Campus Angels, Agility Ventures, Fluid Ventures, RTAF, She Capital, lead Angels, Inflection Point ventures, Indian Healthcare Angels, Venture Catalysts were among the various investors who were a part of the event.

Speaking about the event Mr. Davinder Singh, CEO, of ACIC-BMU Foundation, said, “Propel Pitchfest25 is more than just an event; it is a Launchpad for innovation and a catalyst for entrepreneurial success. Over the past, we’ve been at the forefront of supporting innovators across different sectors or industries. Through our programs and support, we’ve proudly nurtured more than 70 startups, catalyzed the creation of 500+ jobs, and facilitated investments. Our mission at ACIC-BMU is to nurture ground-breaking solutions that drive meaningful change, and this event is a testament to that commitment.”

During the event, ACIC-BMU Foundation showcased the achievements and progress of startups supported under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, recognizing their contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship

The event witnessed the launch of the Singapore India Startup Corridor Program, aimed at driving innovation between the two countries and giving market access, and networking opportunities to the Indian Startups.

Beyond funding, student founders also benefited from masterclasses, boot camps, and investor clinics, where industry experts guided them on refining business models, attracting investments, and scaling their innovations.

Propel Pitchfest25 also championed inclusivity in entrepreneurship, with dedicated tracks for women-led and student-founded start-ups, ensuring a diverse and equitable platform for innovators to thrive.

Ishq Jabariya’s Siddhi Sharma on Maha Shivratri: I Fast for Career & Growth, Not Marriage

Siddhi

Maha Shivratri is a night of divine energy, a time when devotees come together to worship Lord Shiva with full faith and dedication. For Siddhi Sharma, who plays Gulki in Sun Neo’s show Ishq Jabariya, this day holds deep significance. She believes in observing Maha Shivratri with full faith and dedication, embracing the rituals with sincerity.

Talking about her Maha Shivratri rituals, Siddhi shares, “Maha Shivratri is the best time to worship Lord Shiva with full devotion. While many girls observe Monday fasts for a good husband, I do it solely for my career and growth. Fasting on Maha Shivratri is a way to express our faith and dedication. My sister and I wake up early, around 5 AM, to visit the temple before the queues get long. We take our Rudraksha, place it before Lord Shiva, perform the puja, and also follow rituals for Naag Dosha. Barefoot, we offer fruits and prayers, embracing the traditional rituals with devotion.”

Speaking about a lesson she finds relevant in today’s fast-paced world, she says, “One story of Lord Shiva that truly inspires me is how he never had attachment to anything. In today’s generation, instant gratification has become a big issue. We want everything immediately, whether it’s success, happiness, or material things. But somewhere, we need to stay spiritually aligned so that our desires remain in control. That’s my belief. From Lord Shiva, I have learned to be content with whatever I have. Maya (illusion and attachment) should always be within limits. The mind is restless it will keep running after one thing or another. That’s why I try to stay in a spiritual zone, so that I don’t take extreme steps in life that many people end up taking.”

Ishq Jabariya airs at 10:00 PM on Sun Neo it’s a beautiful love story of Gulki, a strong and ambitious young woman with big dreams. The show features a talented cast, including Kamya Panjabi, Dipshikkha Nagppal, Siddhi Sharma, and Lakshay Khurana. With a mix of deep emotions and drama, this show is sure to keep viewers hooked.

AESL Celebrates Success of 93 Students in Mukhyamantri Scheme

Aakash Educational Services Limited

New Delhi/Mumbai, February 24, 2025: Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services, proudly announces that 93 of its students have qualified for the prestigious Mukhyamantri Vigyan Pratibha Pariksha (MVPP) scholarship 2025. This success highlights AESL’s role in guiding students toward academic excellence and preparing them for competitive exams.

The MVPP 2025 results showcase the outstanding efforts of AESL students. Among the top achievers, Tejas Agarwal and Vridhi Singla secured Rank 5, Keshav Rai achieved Rank 11, and Showaiz Noor Ahmad earned Rank 15, among others.

Sharing his thoughts on this achievement, Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, Managing Director & CEO, of Aakash Educational Services Limited, said, “At AESL, we believe in empowering students with the right guidance, knowledge, and resources to achieve academic excellence. The success of our students in MVPP 2025 is an exemplification of their dedication and our faculty’s relentless efforts. We will continue to provide top-tier coaching and mentorship, ensuring that students are well-prepared to excel in competitive examinations and build a strong foundation for their future.”

The Mukhyamantri Vigyan Pratibha Pariksha (MVPP) is a scholarship examination for Class 9 students enrolled in recognized schools, Government or Government Aided, and Unaided recognized Pvt. Schools including the Kendriya Vidyalaya, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, School of MCD, NDMC, DCB, etc., in GNCT of Delhi. Formerly known as the Junior Science Talent Search Exam (JSTSE), MVPP aims to identify and nurture young talents. This exam is conducted at the state level by the Science Branch of the Directorate of Education in Delhi generally between November to January. The student applying for the examination must have secured 60% marks in Class 8. The qualified candidates whose merit is within 1000 (Category) are eligible for a one-time scholarship of Rs.5000/- and a certificate.

The examination consists of two papers: A mental Ability Test (MAT) comprising Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Data Interpretation, and a Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) covering various subjects including Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Physics, Civics, History, Economics, and Geography. Both the papers are MCQ-based, comprising 100 questions of 100 marks each, and have a duration of 100 minutes, respectively.

AESL, known for its innovative approach to education and commitment to academic excellence, has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive coaching solutions for students preparing for Medical and Engineering entrance examinations, School/Board exams, eminent Olympiads such as IOQM, NSEs, NSO, IMO, etc. and other competitive exams. With a network of over 400 Aakash centers nationwide and a student count exceeding 4 lakhs, AESL continues to lead the way in test preparation and educational services.

KLF Nirmal Celebrates Love with a Tribute to Purity & Tradition

KLF Nirmal,

24th February 2025: KLF Nirmal, a leader in the production of coconut-based FMCG products, has unveiled a unique video campaign honoring Love in its purest form. Released in observance of the month of love, this video encapsulates KLF Nirmal’s love for coconuts and how that’s transformed KLF Nirmal into a company with the largest range of coconut products.

A company that started with coconut oil more than 80 years ago, today has a long list of products and brands. The products which were later launched include coconut milk powder, coconut milk, coconut chutneys, etc. The products are available across India and also exported.

With the help of the nourishing properties of coconuts, KLF Nirmal skillfully demonstrates the enduring connection between humans and the natural world in this visually stunning video. With a legacy of excellence, KLF Nirmal has been a trusted name in households for generations, delivering high-quality coconut oils and products that preserve the natural benefits of coconuts. The brand’s commitment to authenticity and sustainability continues to make it a preferred choice among health-conscious consumers.

‘As the season of love unfolds, we launched this campaign to showcase how our deep passion for coconuts has led KLF Nirmal to create the largest range of coconut products. As a company, we also wish for everyone’s love stories to last as long as our enduring love for coconuts. A huge credit goes to our Marketing team for conceptualizing this campaign. Since its launch, we have received immense appreciation for the thought behind it,” said George, Business Head- KLF Nirmal.

CHD Affects 2 Lakh Newborns Annually; Delayed Diagnosis Raises Risks

Dr Shantanu

Every year, nearly two lakh newborns in India are affected by this condition, with its prevalence observed in 8 out of every 1,000 births in North India. Among various types, Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) is the most common. Experts from Fortis Hospital, Greater Noida, highlighted the significance of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Shantanu Singhal, a cardiologist at Fortis, Greater Noida, stated that many congenital heart diseases go undetected in infancy due to mild symptoms. He said, “Signs such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, and swelling in the body are often overlooked. Regular echocardiography and neonatal screening enable early diagnosis. If detected within the first year and treated appropriately, the child can lead a healthy life.” He also emphasized that timely diagnosis during pregnancy and referrals to specialized heart centers can significantly reduce CHD-related mortality and disability rates.

Certain factors during pregnancy can increase the risk of CHD in newborns, including smoking, alcohol consumption, exposure to harmful chemicals, uncontrolled diabetes, and folic acid deficiency. Additionally, a family history of CHD, genetic disorders, and Down syndrome can further elevate the risk. Experts advise pregnant women to maintain a balanced diet, stay up to date with vaccinations, manage conditions like diabetes, avoid tobacco and alcohol, and consume 400 micrograms of folic acid during the first trimester.

India has made significant advancements in CHD treatment through both government and private healthcare facilities. Fortis, Greater Noida, offers device-based treatments for ASD, VSD, and PDA, balloon procedures for narrowed valves, complex heart surgeries, and conduit reconstructions. In recent years, pediatric interventional cardiology has also seen major developments, including three-dimensional (3D) imaging, advanced cardiopulmonary bypass techniques, and modern post-surgical cardiac care.

With timely screening and proper treatment, children affected by congenital heart disease can lead normal lives. Fortis Hospital, Greater Noida, is committed to raising awareness and ensuring a healthier future for children. If a child exhibits symptoms of CHD, consulting a specialist at the earliest is crucial.