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India to Host First Global Media & Entertainment Summit in November

India is set to host the inaugural World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Goa from November 20-24, alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI). Announced by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, WAVES aims to position India as a global hub for the media and entertainment industry. Described as a visionary initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, WAVES will focus on intellectual property rights (IPR), fostering collaboration, and driving innovation in the sector. “IP rights hold immense value in the media and entertainment sector. We are committed to strengthening the ecosystem for protecting these rights,” Vaishnaw said at the event’s curtain raiser. The summit will explore providing low-cost funding for the industry, drawing inspiration from the venture capital model. Vaishnaw emphasized that this initiative reflects the government’s broader strategy to support growth and innovation in the sector. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant highlighted the rapid evolution of the industry, noting that in 2023 alone, India produced 3,000 hours of content for OTT platforms. He added that WAVES would serve as a platform for industry leaders to network, collaborate, and explore investment opportunities. With a market value of $27.5 billion, India’s media and entertainment sector is poised for substantial growth. WAVES is designed to evoke transformative ideas, facilitate knowledge sharing, and position India as a business-friendly and attractive investment destination. I&B Secretary Sanjay Jaju stated that WAVES seeks to elevate India as a global leader in the sector, fostering international partnerships and showcasing the country’s potential as a creative and economic powerhouse in media and entertainment. Source: Business Standard Photo Credit: Business Standard

CBSE Issues Show-Cause Notices to 29 Schools for Bye-Law Violations

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued show-cause notices to 29 schools across India for violating its affiliation bye-laws. Following surprise inspections in December, the board uncovered enrolment irregularities and non-compliance with academic and infrastructural standards in these institutions. The violations included enrolling students beyond their actual attendance records and endorsing non-attending enrolments. CBSE has taken a stern view of these breaches, mandating all 29 schools to respond within 30 days, with each institution provided a detailed inspection report. Eighteen of the identified schools are based in Delhi, three in Uttar Pradesh, and two each in Karnataka, Bihar, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh. Delhi Schools: Hope Hall Foundation School, Sector VII, RK Puram Jagriti Public School, Ratiya Marg, Sangam Vihar Oxford Public School, Opp. Block-4, Nehru Nagar J N International School, Jagdama Colony, Vill. Aali Nav Gian Deep Public School, Vijaya Enclave, Palam Road S D Memorial Vidya Mandir, Mahavir Enclave, Dwarka Navyug Convent School, Sainik Enclave-2, Jharoda C R Oasis Convent School, Najafgarh New Krishna Model Public School, Rawata Central Academy International School, Sector 10, Dwarka Deen Bandhu Public School Brahma Shakti Public School Indraprastha Convent School Richmondd Global School Glorious Public School Aakash International School Holy International School Holy World School, Arjun Park, Ishwar Colony, Najafgarh Karnataka Schools: Sri Chaitanya Techno School, Bengaluru Narayana Olympiad School, Bengaluru Uttar Pradesh Schools: Raj English School, Shivpurava, Varanasi Happy Model School, Kurahuan 323, Chittupur, Varanasi St. K C Memorial English School, Naveda Jalhupur Bihar Schools: Satyam International, Boriya Gaurichak, Patna Eklavya Educational Complex, Palanga, Patna Gujarat Schools: Nirman High School, Vastrapur, Dashkroi, Ahmedabad The New Tulip International School, Bopal, Ahmedabad Chhattisgarh Schools: Modern Educational Academy, Bilaspur Intelligent Public School, Bilaspur CBSE’s action underscores its commitment to ensuring strict adherence to its regulations for maintaining quality education. Schools found in violation are expected to address the highlighted issues and comply with the board’s standards promptly. Source: Hindustan Times Photo Credit: Hindustan Times

BRF Arabia Holding Finalizes Investment in Addoha Poultry

BRF Arabia Holding, a joint venture between BRF and Halal Products Development Company, has successfully concluded its acquisition of a 26% stake in Saudi Arabia’s Addoha Poultry Company. The investment, originally announced in October 2024, solidifies BRF’s footprint in the Middle East and reinforces its commitment to food security in Saudi Arabia, a region where the Brazil-based company has operated for over 50 years. BRF Arabia Holding is 70% owned by BRF and 30% by Halal Products Development Company, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. In a market notice published on January 14, BRF highlighted that this transaction bolsters its strategic role in the Middle Eastern food sector. The investment, valued at SAR316.2 million (US$84.3 million), includes SAR216.2 million directed toward Addoha Poultry, furthering the company’s operational capabilities in Saudi Arabia. BRF, the world’s third-largest poultry producer and 14th-largest feed producer according to the WATTPoultry.com Top Companies Database, continues to enhance its portfolio in the region with its renowned brands, leveraging its expertise in food production and halal certification. This partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision to strengthen food security and the poultry sector, marking a significant step in fostering collaboration between global and regional leaders in the food industry. Source: wattagnet Photo Credit: wattagnet

Blinken Calls for Gaza Post-War Reconstruction and Interim Governance

As the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas draws closer, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized the importance of a comprehensive plan for Gaza’s post-war reconstruction and governance. Speaking at the Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C., Blinken outlined a strategy that includes the establishment of an interim governing authority in Gaza, facilitated by the Palestinian Authority and supported by international partners. “We have a responsibility to ensure that the strategic gains of the last 15 months endure and lay the foundation for a better future,” Blinken stated. The proposed plan involves Arab states and other international partners contributing to an interim security mission in Gaza while prioritizing essential services and rebuilding the war-torn region. Blinken highlighted the need to replace conflict and instability with governance that ensures security and development, steering Gaza toward long-term peace and progress. In addition to Gaza, Blinken addressed broader Middle East strategies, including countering Iran’s influence and pursuing the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. The Gaza reconstruction plan, however, remains a central focus of U.S. diplomacy, with efforts underway to garner support from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and Gulf Arab nations. The plan envisions a Gaza governed without Hamas, ensuring stability and prioritizing reconstruction following the devastating war that erupted in October 2023. According to Blinken, this approach aims to break the cycle of conflict in the region while creating opportunities for sustainable governance and economic development. The proposal underscores a collaborative international effort to address the immediate needs of Gaza’s population while laying a foundation for long-term stability in the Middle East. Source: Hindustan Times Photo Credit: Hindustan Times

Gaza Ceasefire: Key Details of the Israel-Hamas Truce Agreement and Governance Prospects

Efforts to end the long-standing conflict in Gaza have led to a draft ceasefire agreement mediated by Qatar. The proposal outlines several stages aimed at halting hostilities, exchanging hostages for Palestinian prisoners, and addressing humanitarian concerns in the region. Key Elements of the Ceasefire Agreement Stage One: Hostage Release The first phase focuses on the return of 33 hostages held by Hamas. These include children, women (including female soldiers), men over 50, and individuals who are wounded or ill. While Israel suspects most hostages are alive, there has been no confirmation from Hamas. This stage could last between two weeks to 60 days. Negotiations for a second stage would begin on the 16th day of the agreement, aiming to secure the release of younger civilian males, male soldiers, and the remains of deceased hostages. Exchange for Hostages In return, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. While exact numbers vary, estimates suggest “many hundreds” to over 1,000 prisoners. Those convicted of deadly attacks, including participants in the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, will not be released to the West Bank. Phased Military Withdrawal Israeli forces will implement a phased withdrawal, ensuring the safety of border towns and maintaining a presence along the Philadelphi corridor near Egypt. Key changes include: Allowing unarmed North Gaza residents to return under monitored conditions. Gradual reopening of the Rafah crossing for medical evacuations. Increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, addressing the region’s severe crisis. Humanitarian Assistance The agreement emphasizes humanitarian aid expansion, as international organizations report dire conditions in Gaza. The Future of Gaza Governance The governance of Gaza remains a contentious issue and is absent from the current agreement due to its complexity. Israel’s Position: Hamas cannot remain in power post-conflict. Israel opposes the Palestinian Authority’s governance over Gaza and intends to retain security control over the enclave. International Stance: Gaza must eventually be governed by Palestinians. Discussions are ongoing among Israel, the UAE, and the U.S. regarding a provisional administration until a reformed Palestinian Authority is prepared to take control. Outlook While the draft agreement signifies progress, many details remain unresolved. The truce is a critical first step toward peace, yet the long-term governance and stability of Gaza demand further negotiations and international cooperation. Source: english.jagran Photo Credit: english.jagran

AllerVie Health Announces Advisory Council and Welcomes Dr. Ruchi Gupta to Board of Directors

AllerVie Health, a prominent provider of allergy and immunology services across the United States, has taken a significant step to enhance patient care and drive clinical innovation. The organization announced the formation of the AllerVie Advisory Council (AAC) and the addition of Dr. Ruchi Gupta, a globally recognized expert in food allergy and asthma research, to its Board of Directors. The newly established Advisory Council is a clinician-led initiative designed to offer critical insights into clinical practices, operational projects, and patient care protocols. According to Tae Kim, CEO of AllerVie Health and Chair of the AllerVie Advisory Council, this move underscores the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible care. “The AllerVie Advisory Council is a critical step forward for our company. This council brings together a talented group of clinical leaders whose combined experience and expertise will help us better serve our patients and strengthen our internal culture,” said Kim. “We’re also excited to welcome Dr. Ruchi Gupta to our Board of Directors. Her wealth of knowledge and groundbreaking research in allergy and asthma will be a tremendous asset as we work to provide even better care for our patients.” Key Objectives of the AllerVie Advisory Council: Advise and Endorse: Offer feedback on clinical programs, tools, and processes. Review and endorse initiatives to align with provider and patient needs. Develop Best Practices: Formalize practices in referral engagement, diagnostics, patient experience, compliance, and billing to ensure consistent, high-quality care delivery. Advisory Council Members: Provider Members Dr. Weily Soong | Birmingham, Alabama Dr. Paul Keiser | Alexandria & Falls Church, Virginia | Chambersburg, Pennsylvania Dr. Ashish Mathur | Cincinnati, Ohio Dr. Reena Patel | Hoover, Alabama Dr. Julia Sohn | Washington, D.C. | Germantown, Maryland Dr. Maxcie Sikora | Destin & Panama City, Florida Heather Morris, APRN, NP-C | Lubbock, Texas Corporate Members Tae Kim, CEO and Chair Rachel Russell, Chief Experience Officer Jessica Vogt, Chief Financial Officer Ross Boatwright, Vice President of Strategy and Integrations James Calderwood, Vice President of Operations Taylor Knutson, Council Secretary Dr. Ruchi Gupta Joins the Board of Directors Dr. Gupta brings over two decades of expertise as a pediatrician, researcher, and founding director of the Center for Food Allergy & Asthma Research (CFAAR). She has authored over 200 publications and is renowned for her contributions to food allergy and asthma epidemiology. Her involvement will amplify AllerVie Health’s impact on advancing allergy care nationwide. About AllerVie Health AllerVie Health is a national network of board-certified allergists and immunologists operating in nearly 80 clinics across 13 states. Dedicated to clinical excellence and innovation, AllerVie focuses on improving patient outcomes, expanding access to care, and developing advanced treatments for allergy and immunology. One Mission. One Purpose. One Team. Together, AllerVie Health strives to empower patients to reclaim their lives and live with renewed vitality. Source: Business Wire Photo Credit: Business Wire

Karnataka’s KWIN City to Host Premium Global Educational Institutions

Karnataka’s Minister for Commerce, Industries, and Infrastructure, MB Patil, announced plans to establish the Knowledge, Wellbeing, and Innovation (KWIN) City as a premier educational hub, offering land to host the Tata IISc Medical School and other global institutions. Spanning 5,800 acres between Dabaspet and Doddaballapur, KWIN City will comprise four key districts—Knowledge, Health, Innovation, and Research—designed to attract world-class academic and research institutions. Patil has extended an invitation to the Tata Group and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to consider setting up the Tata IISc Medical School in KWIN City, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting transformative educational initiatives. Tata Group had earlier pledged ₹500 crore for the medical school on IISc’s Bengaluru campus. “We encourage IISc and the Tata Group to explore this project in KWIN City or consider future endeavours here,” Patil stated on X, highlighting the government’s proactive approach. The minister also announced plans for a roundtable led by the Karnataka Chief Minister to engage not-for-profits and foundations interested in investing in education, skilling, and innovation. “KWIN City aims to attract the top 500 foreign educational institutions to establish campuses in India by leveraging UGC regulations,” he added, emphasizing academia-industry collaboration to position Karnataka as a global education leader. Patil has initiated discussions with international institutions, including Johns Hopkins University, University of Liverpool, and York University, offering them opportunities to establish campuses in KWIN City. KWIN City will also feature a Life Sciences Park, aimed at making it Asia’s leading hub for academic medicine and healthcare innovation, attracting national and international hospitals. As an educationist, Patil underscored the transformative potential of institutions in driving local economic growth, describing KWIN City as a long-term engine of innovation for India. “One single institution can accelerate the local economy,” he noted. With its futuristic vision and robust infrastructure plans, KWIN City promises to redefine Karnataka’s role in global education and research. Source: Money Control Photo Credit: Money Control

Adani Group Surpasses Mukesh Ambani’s RIL in 2024 M&A Deal Value

The Adani Group outpaced Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries (RIL) in terms of merger and acquisition (M&A) deal value in 2024. The group secured deals worth $6.32 billion, significantly higher than Reliance Industries’ $3.14 billion, reaffirming its competitive edge in the M&A arena. This marks a reversal from 2023 when Reliance Industries led Indian conglomerates in M&A activity, with deals totaling $8.77 billion, while Adani Group’s deals amounted to just $1.73 billion. Despite the shifting dynamics, the Adani and Ambani groups continue to dominate the M&A landscape, regularly trading the top positions since the onset of the pandemic. Meanwhile, the JSW and Tata groups have also remained active in mergers and acquisitions, focusing on capacity expansion. The collective value of M&A deals by listed entities of India’s top five conglomerates accounted for 15.3% of the total deal value last year, reflecting their significant role in shaping the country’s corporate landscape. This trend highlights the intensifying competition between India’s top industrial giants as they strategically expand their influence through acquisitions. Source: business standard Photo Credit: business standard

China Reports Decline in HMPV Cases Amid Global Watch

Decline in HMPV Infections in China Chinese health officials report a decline in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in northern provinces, alleviating fears of a potential pandemic. Wang Liping, a representative from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, stated that positive cases among children under 14 have started to decrease. This update comes as images circulating online suggested overcrowded hospitals in the region, a claim countered by officials citing no significant shortage of medical resources. Gao Xinqiang of the Health Commission clarified that rising patient numbers in fever clinics reflect improved detection methods rather than an actual surge in infections. WHO Monitoring Global HMPV Trends The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that no reports of unusual HMPV outbreaks have been received globally, ensuring that monitoring efforts remain intact. India Prepares for Potential Outbreaks India has reported 17 HMPV cases across several states, including Gujarat (5 cases), Maharashtra and West Bengal (3 cases each), Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (2 cases each), and Assam and Puducherry (1 case each). Health authorities in India emphasize that there is no immediate cause for concern but are preparing for potential outbreaks. About HMPV HMPV, related to the respiratory syncytial virus, typically causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to severe respiratory infections in vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Key Challenges: No Vaccines or Specific Treatments: Currently, there are no vaccines or targeted treatments available for HMPV. Global Vigilance Required: Improved detection methods help track the virus but emphasize the need for global preparedness. This developing story highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and readiness in addressing emerging health concerns. Source: newsbytesapp Photo Credit : newsbytesapp

Jharkhand Principal Accused of Forcing 80 Girls to Remove Shirts; Probe Underway

A school principal in Dhanbad, Jharkhand, faces serious allegations of forcing 80 female Class 10 students to remove their shirts as punishment for writing messages on them during a post-exam celebration. The incident, which occurred on Friday at a prominent school in Digwadih under Jorapokhar police station, has sparked outrage among parents and the local community. The students were celebrating “Pen Day,” a tradition where peers write messages on each other’s shirts after completing examinations. However, the principal reportedly objected to the activity and ordered the students to remove their shirts, even after they apologized. The girls were allegedly sent home wearing only their blazers, without shirts underneath, leaving them humiliated. Dhanbad Deputy Commissioner (DC) Madhvi Mishra confirmed the complaints and stated that the administration has taken the matter seriously. A probe committee has been formed, comprising the sub-divisional magistrate, district education officer, district social welfare officer, and sub-divisional police officer. “Action will be taken based on the committee’s findings,” the DC assured. Parents, accompanied by Jharia MLA Ragini Singh, filed formal complaints against the principal on Saturday. Singh condemned the incident as “shameful and unfortunate,” demanding strict action to ensure such events are not repeated. The affected students and their families have provided statements to the authorities, highlighting the emotional distress caused by the incident. As the investigation unfolds, the incident has raised concerns about student safety, school policies, and the appropriateness of disciplinary actions in educational institutions. The probe report is awaited, and the administration has promised swift action to address the grievances and ensure justice for the students. Source: Hindustan Photo Credit: Hindustan