Manipal, 31st January 2025: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) collaborated with Deakin University, Australia to organize a prominent International Symposium on Technology for healthcare. The two-day symposium concluded with the purpose of improving medical technology and healthcare outcomes by bringing a diverse group of academic and clinical experts together to discuss revolutionary themes and establish meaningful partnerships.

Professor K. Baskaran, Associate Dean (International), Faculty of SEBE, Deakin University, and Dr. Satish Rao, MAHE, in their respective speeches, reflected and highlighted their institution’s shared vision of revolutionizing global healthcare through technology.

Professor K. Baskaran, Associate Dean (International), Faculty of SEBE, Deakin University, in collaboration with MAHE, said, “Deakin University is proud to partner with MAHE in this pivotal initiative, where technology and research converge to address the critical healthcare challenges of our time. As the global demand for innovative and accessible healthcare solutions intensifies, this collaboration exemplifies our shared vision to harness cutting-edge research and technological advancements to create tangible, life-changing impacts for communities worldwide.”

Dr. Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Health Sciences, MAHE, shared his thoughts, “The partnership between Manipal Academy of Higher Education and Deakin University will possibly bring out an advanced transformation of technology not only within the realm of the healthcare sector but also help establish the power of technology by setting an example.”

The symposium highlighted engaging discussions on crucial themes in digital health technologies and identified at least three joint research projects poised to push the boundaries of medical technology. Participants gained insights into MAHE’s robust research infrastructure and Deakin’s expertise in technology-driven healthcare solutions by getting involved in clinical and lab tours at Kasturba Medical College (KMC).

Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Technology & Sciences, MAHE, expressed his views, “The Deakin-MAHE partnership demonstrates how the convergence of interdisciplinary research and expertise sharing between Australia and India can address global healthcare challenges. This symposium underscores the transformative power of partnerships in fostering innovation and creating meaningful solutions.”

Priyanka Singh, Executive Director (South Asia), Deakin University, said, “By leveraging our collective strengths, we are not just advancing research but also paving the way for impactful outcomes that benefit both nations and beyond The International Symposium not only highlighted the importance of global partnerships in cultivating meaningful progress in healthcare technology but also symbolized another milestone in the longstanding collaboration between MAHE and Deakin University.

Kolkata, 31 January 2025 –The British Council, UK’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural exchange, hosted a seminar on Online, Distance and Digitally delivered Learning to shed light on the current, rapidly changing landscape of opportunities and challenges in online learning segment. The seminar explored the best practices of universities for online courses.

Taking a step further and to deep dive into the quality and effectiveness of Online, Distance, and Digitally Delivered Learning (ODDL), the organisation announced a Going Global Partnerships grants. The Going Global Partnerships programme promotes collaboration and innovation in teaching and learning and transnational education in higher education institutions between India and the UK.

The grant will support collaborative efforts to enhance mutual understanding of UK-India educational systems, identify areas for further collaboration, and harness technology to improve the learning experience. Special attention will be given to improving student engagement, developing innovative teaching practices, and addressing the challenges of assessment quality and course completion rates.

Lord Jo Johnson, Former Universities Minister of the UK, offered a look into the future trends of online and digitally delivered education. Meanwhile, Prof. Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, Former Member of the National Council for Vocational Education and Training, provided an overview of the regulatory landscape for education in India.

A thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director of Education- India, British Council, was organised during the seminar which delved into the ideal framework for distance education. Esteemed panellists, including Prof. Uma Kanjilal, Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, and Joshua Fleming, Director Strategy Office for Students UK, shared their perspectives on creating scalable, accessible, and high-quality online learning systems.

Throughout the seminar, experts examined the evolving landscape of online, open, and digitally delivered education. The event featured a series of innovative demonstrations by leading online education providers and addressed key issues such as student engagement, regulatory frameworks, and the scalability of digital learning models. With global demand for higher education expected to rise, the seminar underscored how digital education can effectively meet these challenges while ensuring equity, access, and quality.

At the event, Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director of Education- India, British Council, said, “Understanding and improving the quality and effectiveness of Online, Distance, and Digitally Delivered Learning (ODDL) is crucial as we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of education. The Going Global Partnerships grant represents a significant step towards fostering collaboration between India and the UK, aiming to enhance the learning experience through innovative teaching practices and technology. We hope this will complement the brilliant efforts of the Indian authorities in this space through mutually beneficial collaboration.”

Professor Dame Sally Mapstone DBE, FRSE, President UUK and Principal and Vice-Chancellor, University of St Andrews said, “We are delighted to strengthen the collaboration between the UK and India through initiatives like the Going Global Partnerships programme. This grant will help us to explore innovative approaches to online, distance, and digitally delivered learning, fostering a deeper understanding of our educational systems. By sharing best practices, enhancing student engagement, and addressing challenges in assessment and course completion, we aim to build a more accessible, scalable, and high-quality digital education landscape for both our nations.”

The Going Global Partnerships grant call for online, distance, and digitally delivered learning, in conjunction with the seminar, is expected to build meaningful partnerships that will contribute to the development of a robust digital learning environment, break barriers around access, and ultimately enhance the employability and skill acquisition of students globally.

India-UK collaboration on internationalising higher education focus on research partnerships, future skills for students, improved teaching quality, and capacity building. The UK and India are key partners in mobility and the UK wants more Indian students to work and study in UK. The UK is open and welcomes international students to pursue high quality courses at globally ranked universities that offer excellent graduate outcomes.

Bengaluru, 31st January 2025: India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd., in line with its customer-centric approach and to cater to the growing demand for premium motorcycles, has announced a price reduction of up to INR 1.10 lakh on its flagship models – the Yamaha R3 and MT-03 effective from 1st February 2025. These models, known for their superior performance and Yamaha’s signature racing DNA, are now available at unbeatable prices. As Yamaha celebrates a decade of the R3 legacy globally, this price revision reinforces the brand’s commitment to its customers and the premium motorcycle segment.

The Yamaha R3 is now priced at INR 3,59,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and is available in Icon Blue and Yamaha Black colour options. Meanwhile, the MT-03, with its bold design and street performance, is priced at INR 3,49,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and comes in Midnight Cyan and Midnight Black colour options.

Over the last 10 years, the Yamaha R3 has built a cult following among riding enthusiasts globally for its track-oriented precision, exhilarating performance, and timeless design. With its lightweight diamond frame, aerodynamic design inspired by Yamaha’s iconic YZR-M1, and a powerful 321cc engine the R3 offers a thrilling riding experience. The 50/50 weight distribution, sporty riding posture, and advanced braking system make it the perfect companion for both track and road enthusiasts.

The Yamaha MT-03, a hyper-naked streetfighter, stands out with its aggressive styling and torque-focused performance. Designed for agility and everyday usability, it features an upright riding position, twin-eye LED headlights, and mass-forward bodywork that highlights its bold character. The MT-03 is powered by the same 321cc engine as the R3, ensuring thrilling acceleration and smooth performance, while its compact design and mono-cross rear suspension offer unmatched manoeuvrability in city traffic.

With this change in pricing, Yamaha reaffirms its commitment to offering accessible premium motorcycles that deliver on performance, design, and innovation. This strategic move is expected to further strengthen Yamaha’s foothold in the premium motorcycle segment in India and attract a wider audience of riding enthusiasts.

Have you ever wondered what your favourite actors would be doing if they weren’t in the entertainment industry? It turns out these talented individuals have unique skills and passions that could have led them to completely different career paths! From teaching and singing to dancing, &TV actors share how their alternate professions would still reflect their creativity, dedication, and desire to inspire. Here’s a look at the professions they might have pursued if not acting, featuring Neeta Mohindra (Kailasha Bua from Bheema), Sonal Panwar (Malaika from Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabhi from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai). Neeta Mohindra, known for her role as Kailasha Bua in Bheema, says, “If I weren’t an actor, I would have fully committed myself to teaching acting and the art forms that I hold dear. Alongside my acting career, I’ve been fortunate to teach students, especially in acting and Kalaripayattu, an ancient Indian martial art that blends discipline, strength, and grace. With a master’s degree in fine arts and a Ph.D. in Tribal Art Forms, I am passionate about preserving and passing on our cultural heritage. Teaching allows me to guide aspiring artists, helping them discover their potential and refine their craft. Had acting not been my main focus, I would have devoted my time entirely to nurturing the next generation of performers, combining my love for art, storytelling, and education into a fulfilling teaching career.”

Sonal Panwar, who plays Malaika in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, shares, “If I weren’t an actor, I would have pursued a career as a singer. Music has been a constant part of my life since childhood, and I’ve been learning to sing for as long as I can remember. The power of music to express emotions and connect with people deeply resonates with me. Singing brings me immense joy and allows me to convey feelings that words often can’t. I find myself humming tunes or singing my favourite songs during my free time—it’s like therapy for me. If I hadn’t been performing on screen, I would have loved to perform on stage or even teach music, sharing the magic of melodies with others. Singing will always be an integral part of who I am.” Shubhangi Atre, known for her portrayal of Angoori Bhabhi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, reveals, “If I hadn’t become an actor, I would have definitely pursued a career as a Kathak dancer and teacher. Dancing has been a part of my life since childhood, and Kathak holds a special place in my heart. The rhythm, expressions, and grace of this classical dance form have always fascinated me. I’ve spent countless hours practicing, and it has brought me immense joy and peace. Teaching Kathak would have been a dream come true, as it would allow me to share my passion for this beautiful art form with others and inspire them to embrace our rich cultural heritage. Even now, whenever I get the chance, I love performing Kathak, and it reminds me of the timeless beauty of Indian classical arts.”

Bengaluru, India – January 31st, 2025: Zepto, India’s fastest-growing quick commerce platform, is expanding its electronics category with a broad selection of mobile phones starting January 25th. This initiative is part of Zepto’s ongoing strategy to enhance its product offerings and provide users with an even wider selection of mobile technology. As part of this expansion, Zepto will feature the latest models from vivo India, offering a new range of options for smartphone enthusiasts.

“At Zepto, our Sellers are committed to providing our users with quick, reliable, and affordable solutions for their everyday needs. I thank our sellers for enabling a larger selection of smartphones to our platform which further support this goal,” said Abhimanyu Singh, Business Head, Electronics, Zepto. “We are excited to collaborate with vivo India and our Sellers to bring the latest mobile technology directly to our users in a fast, convenient, and seamless way.”

Mr Pankaj Gandhi, Head, Online Business, vivo Mobile India Pvt Ltd “vivo India has always been dedicated to delivering cutting-edge smartphones that enhance the lives of our customers. Our collaboration with Zepto reflects our shared commitment to making the latest mobile technology easily accessible and available at the fingertips of users. This partnership will ensure that vivo customers across India can enjoy the convenience of purchasing our products through Zepto’s fast and efficient platform.”

Zepto will feature a range of devices starting at just ₹5,999 inclusive of taxes. To celebrate the launch, an exclusive ICICI Bank promotion is offering a flat 5% off (up to ₹5,000) on mobile purchases over ₹5,000. This limited-time offer is live till January 31st, ensuring users can enjoy both affordability and convenience while shopping for the latest smartphones.

Get ready for an exhilarating, heart-pounding journey that takes survival to extremes with Born to be Wild, a three-part adventure series premiering on Friday, 31st January 2025, 7:05 PM on History TV18. Hosted by the daring and dynamic adventurer Andrew Ucles, who has reached over 2 million people through his YouTube page, this show redefines wildlife exploration, bringing audiences face-to-face with some of the planet’s most untamed creatures in remote landscapes.

In this adrenaline-fueled series, Andrew Ucles, an Australian survivalist, animal expert, and filmmaker, pushes the limits of human endurance to bring viewers closer to nature’s wonders. Join him as explores the dense jungles of South America, the plains and wetlands of Africa, and the rugged outback of Australia. With just a handy cam and sheer grit, he gives viewers an up-close-and-personal look at wildlife and survival like never before.

Watch Andrew navigate the perilous Amazon rainforest in Peru as he braves this unforgiving “green hell” for a month. From dancing with an anteater, to discovering a venomous snake known locally as “The Landmine” and being bitten by a caiman in the river, he pushes the boundaries of his stamina, safety and sanity!

In Africa, Andrew sets out on a mission to find 12 animals in 7 days, including Africa’s Big Five, elephants, hippos and more! Journey headfirst into the Zambian wilderness with him, as he finds himself getting stalked by lions, in a close standoff with a spitting cobra, and being chased by elephants. How many times can he push his luck to come away unharmed in a battle with some of the most dangerous creatures?

And finally, join Andrew on an awe-inspiring journey across Australia’s harsh northern terrain, Arnhem Land, where survival means battling crocodiles and tracking feral buffalo. Will this remote, semi-arid landscape break him, or will he conquer Australia’s last frontier?

For Indian audiences fascinated by diverse ecosystems and wildlife, Born to Be Wild offers a riveting look at how similar human and animal survival instincts are. The series offers a blend of education and entertainment served with warmth, action and humour. At its heart, the show is about connecting with nature, understanding its fragility, and appreciating its raw beauty. Marvel at our wild planet, and realise the power of human determination, starting 31st January, on History TV18.

31st January 2025: – Genius Consultants, a leading Workforce Staffing and HR Solutions provider, has released its December 2024 Survey Report, offering a comprehensive analysis of workplace trends by evaluating the labour welfare and productivity of daily workplaces. The latest survey focuses on productivity, work-life balance, and the integration of employee-centric and employer-driven policies. The findings, based on responses from 1,132 employees and 1,011 employers, shed light on the evolving dynamics in workplaces across industries.

The survey reveals that organizations are making notable efforts to address employee needs, but there remain critical areas for improvement. 23% of employees report that their organizations frequently provide opportunities for skill development or upskilling, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of professional growth as a priority. However, 28% of employees feel these opportunities are provided only occasionally, while 27% state they are rare, suggesting a gap in consistent engagement. This highlights how upskilling and regular training is still not being emphasized by many organizations and the same is yet to be focused on.

Work-life balance have emerged as another focal point, with 31% of respondents indicating satisfaction with their organization’s efforts in this area. However, 23% feel that these efforts are inadequate, and 16% are unsure, highlighting the need for better communication and implementation of policies supporting balance. This sheds a light on the current scenario of the need for work-life balance that employees are demanding against the expectations of few organizations from their employees to put in higher work hours.

Regarding workplace safety, 40% of employees believe that their organizations are effectively addressing safety concerns, but 33% express dissatisfaction, citing insufficient measures. This emphasizes the critical need for robust safety protocols to foster a secure work environment.

When asked about productivity support measures such as tools and training, 30% of respondents report satisfaction, while 15% feel the support was insufficient, underscoring the importance of comprehensive and accessible resources.

Employers however, have expressed a commitment to productivity and welfare, though challenges persist in aligning policies with employee needs. Monitoring productivity have emerged as a key focus, with 35% of employers reporting effective systems to track and support employee output. However, 30% have admitted to gaps in these systems, while 16% are uncertain about their effectiveness, indicating room for optimization.

Labour welfare policies remain a priority, with 60% of employers emphasizing mental health initiatives, workplace inclusivity, and employee benefits. Nonetheless, 20% of employers have noted barriers in implementing these policies, including budgetary constraints and lack of organizational support.

The survey also reveals challenges in executing welfare initiatives, with 23% of employers stating implementation is moderately challenging, while 49% find it highly challenging due to resource limitations. Only 13% of employers consider implementation easy, pointing to systemic hurdles in workforce welfare.

Policy updates for improving productivity and welfare are reported by 50% of employers as occurring annually and 16% of employers have reported bi-annual implementation, demonstrating proactive efforts to adapt to changing workforce needs. However, 22% admit to infrequent updates, reflecting the need for more agile policy frameworks.

When enquired about the support provided by the local and state policies for labour & welfare and productivity, 33% of employers have confirmed being highly satisfied with the support followed by 15% who have expressed satisfactory feedback towards the local & state policies. However, while 37% remained neutral in expressing their views, 15% of the employers have voiced dissatisfaction towards the local & state labour welfare and productivity policies, highlighting the need to focus on the same.

Commenting on the findings, Mr. R P Yadav, Chairman and Managing Director of Genius Consultants, said, “These survey results serve as a wake-up call for organizations to intensify their focus on employee satisfaction and welfare. While there are commendable efforts in skill development and policy updates, there is much work to be done to ensure workplaces are inclusive, supportive, and aligned with evolving employee expectations. At Genius Consultants, we are committed to empowering organizations to achieve these goals and create thriving workplaces.”

The Digipoll Survey Report highlights the strides organizations are making to improve workforce engagement and productivity, while also uncovering critical gaps in implementation. It underscores the need for consistent upskilling, better work-life balance, and enhanced welfare policies to build resilient, future-ready workplaces.

Verna January, 2025: Padre Conceicao College of Engineering (PCCE), Verna, organized the IDEAS 3.0 – 2025 Intra College Project Competition on 24th and 25th January. This two-day event celebrated creativity and innovation with a showcase of projects blending science, innovative and cutting edge technology.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, along with other dignitaries including Mr. D.S. Prashant, CEO of the Startup and IT Promotion Cell; Mr. Neville Noronha, OSD to the Minister; Dr. Mahesh B. Parappagoudar, Principal of PCCE; and Fr. Agnelo Gomes, Director of Agnel Technical Education Complex.

Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics, and Communications, Government of Goa Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “It is truly inspiring to witness the creativity and innovation showcased at IDEAS 2025, organized by Padre Conceicao College of Engineering. Technology is evolving and the forward-thinking approach displayed here highlights the potential of Goa’s youth to reach new levels of achievement with fresh ideas. Through our Startup and IT Policies, we are supporting students by providing financial assistance to promote their ideas. Special schemes have been introduced for girls, ensuring they have access to platforms that enable them to excel in innovation. As we work towards Viksit Bharat 2047, we are also focusing on building Digital India and Digital Goa. With strong connectivity and robust infrastructure, we are creating an environment where young minds like yours can build successful ventures right here in Goa. Our goal is to transform youth from job seekers into job givers, leveraging the opportunities in the field of technology. This can only be achieved by working together.”

Initially, 100 innovative ideas were pitched, and after several stages of shortlisting, PCCE selected 30 projects to be showcased at the event. Approximately 60 higher secondary and secondary schools have been invited, with around 48 projects being exhibited by school children from across Goa. Over the course of 30 days, students transformed their concepts into solutions, demonstrating the immense potential of Goa’s young minds. Some of the projects included Aero-Swift, GLS King, Hovercraft, and various other innovative applications of technology, reflecting the diverse creativity of these students.

In addition to the project exhibition, the event included four engaging competitions for school and higher secondary students: Science Expo, BGIM, AR/VR Cricket, and Brainiac Battle. Workshops on Design Thinking, Idea Generation, and Business Model Canvas were also held, offering participants valuable insights into entrepreneurship and business development. The two-day event served as a unique platform for students, faculty, and alumni to connect with mentors, investors, and industry professionals, gaining hands-on experience and insights into industry standards. Students were encouraged to incorporate sustainable goals into their projects, aligning their ideas with environmental issues and practical applications in daily life.