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India vs. Pakistan T20 World Cup Match at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium

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India faces Pakistan in a highly anticipated T20 World Cup match at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, Eisenhower Park, New York. The pitch conditions and security measures are crucial for the event. When the old rivals square off on Sunday, a confident and well-adjusted India will attempt to exploit Pakistan’s unpredictability and lack of familiarity with the challenging conditions in New York. The flagship match is expected to draw the tournament’s largest crowd at the recently constructed 34,000-seat stadium. The stadium’s 22-yard pitch has been a hot topic due to its unpredictability, which the ICC has acknowledged. In the three games played so far, teams have struggled to score more than 100 runs in six innings. Concerns have been raised about whether the low-scoring format can help promote cricket in the United States. Damian Hough, the Adelaide Oval groundskeeper, oversaw the installation of the venue’s four drop-in pitches in April, but they have not yet fully settled. The uneven bounce of the pitch has raised safety concerns, particularly after Indian captain Rohit Sharma had to stop batting during the opening match against Ireland due to a shoulder injury. “I don’t know what to expect from the pitch, to be honest. We will prepare as if the conditions are going to be like this (for the Pakistan game). This is going to be a game where all XI of us will need to contribute,” Rohit said after the match against Ireland. The ICC issued a statement acknowledging the issues with the pitches: “The ICC recognises that the pitches used so far at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium have not played as consistently as we would have all wanted.” Pakistan has not yet adjusted to the stadium’s conditions. After losing to tournament newcomers USA, they flew into New York and took a rest day. Babar Azam and his team have had little time to adapt, which could be a disadvantage in this crucial match. A loss to India could severely impact their chances of qualifying. India may maintain their strategy of including an additional specialist fast bowler, but they might consider including Kuldeep Yadav due to his recent performance and favorable matchups against Pakistani batters. If included, one of Ravindra Jadeja or Axar Patel might miss out. The batting order is expected to remain with Rohit and Virat Kohli as openers and Rishabh Pant at No. 3. Pakistan will aim to recover from their loss to the USA. Babar Azam will need to improve his performance, as his 43 runs from 44 deliveries were below the expected strike rate for T20 cricket. The team will hope for a strong performance from their bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi.  

India Showcases Educational Strength at 76th NAFSA Conference in New Orleans

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Blog on Education

Educational exchanges build crucial bridges for mutual understanding, learning, and friendships, said DC Manjunath, the Consul General of India in Houston, as he inaugurated two Indian pavilions at the 76th NAFSA 2024 Conference & Expo — the world’s largest international annual education event — in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Indian delegation, consisting of over 40 major academic institutions, both public and private, had a significant presence at the conference held from May 28-31. This participation highlighted the potential of Indian education and fostered international and India-US collaboration. The event, which promotes international education and exchange, brought together 10,000 delegates from more than 110 countries under the theme “Resilience. Renewal. Community.” It positioned NAFSA as a platform for global communities working together to foster resilience in the post-pandemic era, support education renewal, and build stronger local and global communities. Consul General Manjunath inaugurated the Study in India pavilion and the India Pavilion booths at the expo. The Study in India pavilion was hosted by Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL), under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Education, and comprised the National Book Trust and public higher education institutions. The India Pavilion, under the Education Promotion Society for India (EPSI), featured 28 reputable private higher education institutes, represented by 62 delegates led by Prof. Rajive Kumar, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) member secretary, and Dr. Prashant Bhalla, senior vice-president of EPSI. Attendees at the Study in India pavilion explored diverse academic opportunities in India and discussed academic cooperation between India and the US. Manjunath emphasized that India has a robust education system equipped with high-quality research facilities and that Indian institutions are broadening their global footprint. He noted that India has become a one-stop destination for technologies such as data science and cybersecurity. “Both Study in India and the India Pavilion are a reflection of India’s commitment to becoming a global education hub and attracting international students to pursue higher education opportunities in the country,” Manjunath said. “Educational exchanges build crucial bridges for mutual understanding, learning, and friendship, which are more important than ever,” he added. On the sidelines of the conference, the consulate, in association with the education ministry and SVVS Temple Society, New Orleans, organized “India’s Higher Education Partnership & Dialogue,” highlighting India’s economic growth, educational system development, new opportunities in universities under India’s new National Education Policy 2020, and the empowerment of women in education. The event was attended by Ministry of Education Joint Secretary Sanjog Kapoor, Ministry of Education Director Varun Bhardwaj, and EdCIL Executive Director Dr. B Chandrasekar, among others. Several other Indian universities and academic institutions also participated independently, exploring diverse educational opportunities, connecting with representatives of elite institutions, and discovering a world of educational possibilities in India. The participating institutions signed MoUs with universities in the US, Europe, Canada, Japan, with a focus on STEM and management programs. They also shared ideas for mutual academic collaboration and partnership for student exchange and faculty mobility to enhance curriculum and teaching in graduate and postgraduate programs. “NAFSA 2024 showcased their academic programs and research opportunities, fostering international collaborations and partnerships, enhancing global reputation, attracting international students, and promoting cross-cultural exchanges,” a delegate said. “Additionally, it offers opportunities for faculty and student exchange programs, collaborative research projects, and sharing of best practices in education, thereby enriching the educational experience and global perspective of Indian students and educators,” the delegate added. The Study in India delegates met with the academic leadership of the Louisiana School of Health Sciences and Tulane University to design and develop postgraduate programs in frontier areas such as climate science finance, sustainability, bioinformatics, public health, tropical medicine, and AI applications in healthcare.

Varun Bharadwaj, Vice President – Edtech Solutions, Intercell emphasised upon upcoming technology of Intercell

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“we plan to launch more initiatives to provide end-to-end solutions for students, from their undergraduate studies to their professional careers.” Said Varun Bharadwaj Can you tell us about the initiatives and product line of Intercell? Certainly! Intercell is an online mentoring platform that bridges the gap between mentees and mentors. For instance, if a student is pursuing engineering and seeks mentorship in AI, we provide mentors on our platform who offer guidance on cracking interviews and preparing for job opportunities. Our mentors have extensive industry experience, ensuring that mentees receive practical insights and guidance. Which market or region in higher education has been more supportive of Intercell ‘s initiatives, and which do you find more dynamic and approachable? We have clients across South and North India, and we aim to cover the entire country. Additionally, we have mentors from India and abroad, spanning 18 different career fields. Our goal is to provide comprehensive support to students nationwide. What are your takeaways from this event, and how do you find it? This event has been absolutely fantastic! The speakers, veterans from the industry, provide invaluable coaching and guidance. The event effectively connects industry professionals with academia. Regarding skilling programs, our initiative spans six months, ensuring ongoing support through live sessions, chat, and email. It’s not just a one-time session but a comprehensive program to address mentees’ needs over an extended period. What should educators consider before partnering with a tech company like yours? Educators often face challenges during student placements. Intercell addresses this by providing mentorship from industry veterans, enhancing students’ chances of securing placements. Educators should consider how such partnerships can improve student outcomes and enhance their overall educational experience. Can you share any special initiatives that Intercell is currently running or planning to launch? We have already introduced job recommendations and internship recommendations. Additionally, we plan to launch more initiatives to provide end-to-end solutions for students, from their undergraduate studies to their professional careers. We’re also working with schools to ensure comprehensive grooming opportunities for students.

India to Showcase Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission at World Health Assembly

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India will highlight its universal health coverage through Ayushman Bharat, public health emergency preparedness, and digital health transformations at the World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva from May 27 to June 1. Official sources confirmed on Wednesday that India will also present the Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube, an indigenous portable hospital equipped with innovative tools designed to enhance disaster response and medical support. The 77th session of the WHA, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), will feature representatives from 194 countries aiming to structure the global health ecosystem. This year’s theme is “All for Health, Health for All.” The Indian delegation, led by Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, will participate in various sessions and discussions. The WHA includes sessions in three main committees: Plenary, Committee A, and Committee B. The plenary session, attended by health ministers and heads of delegations from 194 nations, will open the Health Assembly. India will chair Committee A, which will facilitate discussions on universal health coverage, public health emergency preparedness and response, antimicrobial resistance, climate change, and sustainable financing for WHO. Committee B will focus on internal and external audit, budget, and financing matters concerning the WHO secretariat. In addition to the main sessions, at least 14 side events and multiple strategic roundtables will take place on the sidelines of the WHA, focusing on diverse health topics. These events will provide a platform for participants to share their thoughts on the future of the global health architecture. India’s presence at the WHA also includes leading and supporting the Regional One Voice initiative for the Southeast Asia region. This initiative advocates for well-being and health promotion, addressing social determinants of health, improving maternal, infant, and young child nutrition, and promoting the economics of health for all. India’s contributions to the WHA, including the showcase of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and the Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube, emphasize the country’s commitment to enhancing global health and disaster response capabilities. The participation aims to foster international collaboration and share India’s innovative health solutions with the global community.

ISB Ranks Number One in India, 26 Globally in FT Executive Education Custom Ranking 2024

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The Indian School of Business (ISB) has been ranked first in India and 26th globally in the Financial Times (FT) Executive Education Custom Ranking 2024. The institution also secured the second spot in Asia. Among the other institutions featured in the ranking are EMLyon Business School, York University, IIM Bangalore, IIM Ahmedabad, and IIM Indore. These institutions were evaluated based on parameters such as Program Design, Value for Money, Future Use, and Preparation. ISB particularly excelled in the Future Use parameter, achieving the top spot globally. Indian Institutions in FT Executive Education Custom Ranking 2024: Name Program Design Value For Money Future Use Preparation Indian School of Business 28 15 1 27 EMLyon Business School 33 40 75 36 York University: Schulich 38 38 42 39 IIM Bangalore 44 37 29 41 IIM Ahmedabad 74 58 34 71 IIM Indore 86 86 80 73 ISB issued a press release celebrating this achievement, highlighting its extensive range of programs for enterprises and public sector organizations across various domains and leadership levels. ISB’s association with central and state government entities involves capacity-building measures, customized learning solutions, skill development at scale, and research and impact assessments that inform policymaking. Deepa Mani, Deputy Dean and Professor of Information Systems at ISB, remarked that the FT Ranking reflects ISB Executive Education’s dedication to equipping learners with essential knowledge and behaviors for transformative change in global businesses and society. Mani emphasized ISB’s commitment to integrating advanced learning pedagogies, leveraging world-class faculty expertise, and utilizing cutting-edge research and comprehensive market insights to achieve learner-focused outcomes. Sujatha Kumaraswamy, Executive Director of Executive Education and Digital Learning at ISB, noted that over 60,000 learners globally have benefited from ISB’s 1,300+ programs in 260 Indian and global entities. Kumaraswamy stated that ISB aims to create a broader impact by continuing to provide innovative offerings backed by cutting-edge research and industry-relevant outcomes for India and other emerging economies.  

Apollo 24/7 Secures Rs 2,475 Crore Investment and 12.1% Advent Stake in Mega Merger with Keimed

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Apollo HealthCo Limited, a subsidiary of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, has unveiled a major development with plans to raise Rs 2,475 crore ($339 million) in equity capital from Advent International, a prominent private equity investor. This strategic move is part of a merger initiative that will also integrate Keimed Private Limited, India’s leading wholesale pharmaceutical distributor, within the next two years. The merger deal entails Advent International acquiring a 12.1% stake in the merged entity, while Apollo HealthCo and Keimed will hold 59.2% and 25.7% stakes, respectively. The combined entity is valued at an impressive enterprise value of Rs 22,481 crores ($3 billion). Dr. Prathap C Reddy, Chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, emphasized the mission to provide high-quality healthcare to all Indians at an affordable cost. He highlighted the significant outreach achieved by Apollo 24/7, which has positively impacted over 33 million Indians. Dr. Reddy expressed confidence that with Advent’s investment and the merger with Keimed, the combined entity will emerge as one of the leading retail health companies in India. The integration is poised to deliver substantial industry benefits and capitalize on potential business synergies. With a pan-India presence, the merged entity aims to become a frontrunner in the retail health sector. Shobana Kamineni, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals, underscored the enhanced accessibility to genuine medicines for 1.4 billion Indians within 24 minutes to 24 hours, 7 days a week, facilitated by the merged supply chain. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, described the merger with Keimed as a pivotal step towards building a comprehensive supply chain. She outlined the revenue projections and emphasized the collaborative strengths that will drive exponential value for Apollo Hospitals and its shareholders. Advent International sees this partnership as an opportunity to invest in India’s rapidly growing healthcare sector and contribute creatively to value creation. The merger positions Keimed at an enterprise value of Rs 8,003 crores, with Keimed shareholders holding a maximum of 25.7% stake in the combined entity, while Apollo Hospitals remains the largest controlling shareholder with at least 59.2% stake. The merger is subject to further corporate approvals.  

India Emerges as Global Cancer Capital, Witnessing Alarming Surge in Cases, Reports Apollo Hospitals

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A recent study by Apollo Hospitals reveals concerning trends in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across India, with cancer cases witnessing an unprecedented rise. The 4th edition of the Health of Nation Report, released on World Health Day 2024, designates India as the “cancer capital of the world.” The report highlights a surge in NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders, significantly impacting the nation’s health landscape. Disturbingly, one in three Indians is pre-diabetic, two in three are pre-hypertensive, and one in 10 suffers from depression. Key Insights: Cancer cases in India have surpassed global rates, with the country experiencing a surge in diagnoses, particularly among younger demographics. Despite the lower median age for cancer diagnosis, cancer screening rates in India remain alarmingly low. Breast cancer, cervix cancer, and ovarian cancer are prevalent among women, while lung cancer, mouth cancer, and prostate cancer are common among men. Report Findings: Obesity rates have doubled from 9 percent in 2016 to 20 percent in 2023, while hypertension cases have risen from 9 percent to 13 percent during the same period. A significant proportion of Indians are at risk for obstructive sleep apnea, highlighting the need for urgent health interventions. The report underscores the critical need for regular health screenings to monitor conditions like obesity and hypertension, thereby reducing the risk of cardiac-related ailments. Dr. Preetha Reddy, Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals, advocates for collective efforts to combat NCDs through education and personalised preventive healthcare solutions. Dr. Madhu Sasidhar, President & CEO of Apollo Hospitals, emphasizes the importance of innovation in preventive healthcare and improved accessibility, leveraging technology for accurate diagnosis and patient-centric treatment methodologies. The findings of the report underscore the urgent need for unified action to address the growing epidemic of NCDs in India. Prioritising investments in health infrastructure, promoting preventive healthcare measures, and addressing health inequities are crucial steps towards sustainable development in the health sector.  

Vodafone Idea Launches Vi Movies and TV App for Comprehensive Entertainment

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Vodafone Idea has unveiled a new all-in-one entertainment app, catering to the telco’s subscribers with a plethora of over-the-top (OTT) content and live TV. The app boasts access to more than 13 OTT platforms and over 400 live TV channels, complemented by complimentary access to various content libraries. Priced at Rs 202 for prepaid users and Rs 199 for postpaid users, the subscription to the app aims to streamline the viewing experience by offering one subscription for multiple platforms. Dubbed as Vi Movies and TV, the app provides access to leading OTT platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLiv, Manorama Max, NammaFlix, Klikk, Chaupal, and Playflix, among others. Additionally, users can enjoy access to TV channels such as Discovery, Aaj Tak, Republic Bharat, ABP, and India Today, along with complimentary content libraries from Shemaroo and Hungama. Accessible across smartphones, smart TVs, and the web, the app enables users to simultaneously stream two content feeds on all OTT platforms. Avneesh Khosla, Chief Marketing Officer at Vi, highlighted the significance of the app in today’s content landscape, stating, “India is watching content like never before – multiple formats, multiple subscriptions, and multiplying hours on the screen every day. However, this unlimited choice also brings fatigue and complexity. We take immense pride in announcing Vi Movies & TV – one app, one subscription with the best of OTTs and TV content. We are committed to providing an entertaining experience to our consumers by empowering them to access entertainment in a simple, affordable, and accessible way. We will soon add new partners and more curated options for ease of choice for our viewer.” With its comprehensive offering and user-friendly interface, Vi Movies and TV app aims to redefine the entertainment experience for its subscribers, providing them with a seamless and engaging platform to enjoy their favorite content.

UK’s NHS Recruits 2,000 Doctors from India to Address Medical Workforce Shortage

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The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has embarked on an initiative to recruit 2,000 doctors from India. Under this fast-track program, doctors will undergo postgraduate training in India before being deployed to hospitals in the UK. The initiative aims to tackle the NHS’s longstanding struggle with medical workforce shortages, exacerbated by factors such as low wages, expensive training, and burnout due to heavy workloads. Brexit has further complicated the issue, leading to increased reliance on overseas-trained doctors. Notably, the recruited doctors will be exempted from the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) examination, typically mandatory for practicing in the UK, upon completion of their training program. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact on India’s healthcare system, with fears of brain drain and the loss of skilled professionals. While some experts view this initiative as a valuable opportunity for Indian doctors to gain international experience, others emphasize the importance of offering ample opportunities and fair compensation to locally trained doctors in India. Additionally, the lack of widespread awareness about the initiative among the medical community in India highlights the need for better promotion and communication efforts. Ultimately, the initiative represents a significant stride towards global healthcare collaboration, with the potential to enhance healthcare standards and foster a mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and expertise between India and the UK. Key Points: The NHS plans to recruit 2,000 doctors from India to address medical workforce shortages. Recruited doctors will undergo six- to twelve-month postgraduate training in India before deployment to UK hospitals. Exemption from the PLAB examination will be granted upon completion of the training program. Concerns have been raised about potential brain drain and the impact on India’s healthcare system. Improved awareness and promotion efforts are needed to ensure the success of the initiative. The initiative signifies a step towards global healthcare collaboration and knowledge exchange. Currently, 25-30% of the NHS’ medical workforce consists of doctors trained overseas.

Path to Good Governance and Security: The Role of Inclusive Welfare Programs

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Blog on Governance

In India’s journey towards 2047, the symbiotic relationship between good governance, security, and inclusive welfare programs emerges as a critical pathway to address multifaceted challenges and foster societal well-being. A recent survey conducted by Primus Partners underscores the pivotal role of inclusive welfare initiatives in realizing the objectives of good governance and security, offering insights into India’s evolving landscape and aspirations. Challenges and Needs: The survey highlights that a significant portion of the population, approximately 58 percent, continues to grapple with fundamental needs such as education, shelter, healthcare, and employment. Despite past efforts, existing welfare programs face uncertainty in effectively addressing these challenges, necessitating a paradigm shift towards holistic solutions that bridge past achievements with future aspirations. Importance of Good Governance: Kautilya’s ancient wisdom resonates with contemporary notions of good governance, emphasizing the centrality of people’s happiness to the ruler’s well-being. Good governance, characterized by transparency, accountability, and participatory decision-making, serves as the bedrock for progress and security. It fosters social cohesion, economic growth, and stability, laying the groundwork for inclusive development. Inclusivity and Social Welfare: The concept of inclusivity emerges as a cornerstone of India’s progress, with 21 percent of survey respondents underscoring its significance. Inclusive policies, women empowerment, gender equality, and wealth disparity reduction are identified as critical factors contributing to social well-being. Drawing inspiration from nations like Sweden and Norway, India seeks to emulate the transformative impact of robust welfare programs on societal cohesion and security. Success Stories and Learnings: Initiatives like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) exemplify India’s strides towards inclusive governance and poverty alleviation. By leveraging technology and innovative financing mechanisms, India aims to streamline welfare delivery, mitigate corruption, and enhance transparency. The cooperative federalism model and participative decision-making are pivotal for effective implementation and citizen-centric governance. Future Directions: As India navigates its path towards Viksit Bharat, strengthening last-mile delivery mechanisms, data privacy safeguards, and capacity-building initiatives remain imperative. The establishment of robust frameworks to combat corruption, coupled with transparent public institutions, will shape India’s inclusive growth trajectory. By fostering a culture of innovation, education, and civic engagement, India endeavors to realize the aspirations of all its citizens on the road to 2047. Inclusive welfare programs serve as catalysts for good governance and security, offering a holistic framework to address socio-economic disparities and enhance societal resilience. Through strategic investments, policy reforms, and collaborative efforts, India charts a course towards a prosperous and equitable future, anchored in the principles of inclusivity, transparency, and citizen-centric governance. With a steadfast commitment to Kautilya’s vision of the ruler’s happiness intertwined with the people’s welfare, India embarks on a transformative journey towards 2047, where inclusive welfare programs serve as the cornerstone of a vibrant and secure society. As the nation embraces the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, the convergence of good governance, security, and inclusive welfare promises to unlock the full potential of India’s diverse and dynamic populace, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.