ArdorComm Media Group

Innovation

Prof N M P Verma, Vice Chancellor, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University emphasised on the foundation of startups

“The current economic philosophy emphasizes disinvestment, market growth, CSR, and the hiring of technologists and professionals by corporate sectors.” Said Prof N M P Verma, Vice Chancellor, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University We would like to know more about your university. Under your leadership, how has the university expanded and flourished, and what is your vision for the coming years? This university was established by the Parliament of our country in 1997, and over the last 25 years, it has established itself in various disciplines such as social sciences, technology, engineering, science, environmental science, mass communication and journalism, law, and many more. We have two centers here, one of which was previously occupied by IIIT, and we are now developing that campus. We have around 800 students, 400 teachers, and 1,000 non-teaching staff, along with approximately 1,000 PhD scholars. Our campus spans about 250 acres, equipped with full infrastructure, and is located in the heart of the city near the airport, with easy access via the highway. The university is a NAAC A++ accredited institution, and we recently organized a NAAC workshop for the North Zone. We have also advocated for changes in the NAAC rating policy to ensure that only truly deserving universities receive the highest ratings. In the 21st century, how important are skills and employability, and how is your university progressing in this direction? Education is intrinsically linked to employability, knowledge generation, peace of mind, pleasure, and even entertainment. But fundamentally, education provides livelihood. We all work for our livelihood, seeking wealth, assets, and luxury. In this century, especially in a country with a rapidly growing population like ours, employability is crucial. If more and more educated people remain unemployed, it indicates that the country is not progressing, which could lead to violence, political instability, and social issues. My humble suggestion is to link education with ethics to prevent moral erosion in society. Character building is essential, just as it was during our national struggle for freedom. We must ensure that education is free from unethical practices like question leaks and delays in result declarations. The big challenges today are in imparting education, evaluation, and enhancing employability. If around 80% of IIT graduates are not finding employment, we must question the purpose of their education. We need to increase employability to ensure that the income level rises, and as income increases, the population size may decrease due to the inverse correlation between the two. This will lead to overall improvement. In forums like this, where the government, policymakers, corporate representatives, and academicians come together, what do you think is the takeaway or outcome of such gatherings? Corporate sectors play a significant role in the development of the country. The current economic philosophy emphasizes disinvestment, market growth, CSR, and the hiring of technologists and professionals by corporate sectors. These professionals are, in turn, driving startups and investments both in India and globally. However, the best talents from our country often migrate abroad due to the substandard ease of doing business here. This issue needs to be addressed to attract and retain our best talents, who are currently moving to capitalist or developed nations. This is the third anniversary of ArdorComm Media, and we are celebrating our third year. Do you have any message or good wishes for the ArdorComm Media Group? Yes, you are doing very well in terms of social transformation and business development. My advice would be to focus on managing quality over quantity, as there is a lot of competition in your field. If you maintain quality, your success will naturally follow, and your growth will be substantial. My best wishes to you.

Prof. Saramma Samuel, Secretary, RVS Group of Institutions emphasised on Teacher Training and Nurturing

“Our goal is to provide practical learning experiences, as classroom education is just the beginning. Through hands-on experiences, students gain valuable insights and skills relevant to their field.” Said Pradeepa Thinakaran What was your main takeaway from today’s event? Today’s event provided a vibrant platform for educators to exchange ideas and network. One significant takeaway was the acknowledgment of an uncertain future for students. We discussed the importance of preparing students to adapt and excel in uncertain situations. Can you highlight two best practices under your leadership in RV’s group of Institutions? One of our key practices is prioritizing teacher training and nurturing. We believe that well-trained educators positively impact student learning. Additionally, we have a dedicated training department focused on enhancing students’ communication skills, aptitude, and attitude to prepare them for employability. What does “New Normal” mean to you in the context of education? “New Normal” signifies resilience, adaptability, and integration of hybrid learning environments. It’s about persevering and not giving up despite challenges, embracing change, and finding innovative solutions. Could you discuss the initiatives related to skill development in your institution? We emphasize connecting students with industry practices beyond classroom teaching. Our goal is to provide practical learning experiences, as classroom education is just the beginning. Through hands-on experiences, students gain valuable insights and skills relevant to their field. Any words of encouragement for ArdorComm Media Group? I commend ArdorComm Media Group for their initiative, especially starting during the challenging period of COVID-19. Your efforts to bring together leaders and change-makers from different regions are commendable. Keep igniting the fire of innovation and leadership in all of us. Any final thoughts? It was a pleasure to participate in this event. Thank you for the opportunity, and I wish Ardorcom Media Group continued success in their endeavors.

Dr. Shaleesha A. Stanley, Pro Chancellor, Jeppiaar University, Chennai expressed the future prospect of JPR University

“We prioritize their upskilling by sending them for faculty development programs and sponsoring their participation in conferences” said Dr. Shaleesha A. Stanley Can you tell us more about JPR University and its initiatives in digital transformation and student development? JPR University, a state private university operational for the past two years, prioritizes initiatives such as AI-powered learning management systems and digital transformation. We focus on incorporating ability enhancement courses and promoting English as a second language, considering them as crucial aspects for student development. We are grateful to Arcom for providing us with a platform to share our views and experiences, and we look forward to collaborating with them in the future. How does your institution prioritize teacher training and upskilling? At JPR University, we believe that teachers are pivotal in the education sector. Hence, we prioritize their upskilling by sending them for faculty development programs and sponsoring their participation in conferences. We ensure that they play a vital role in education and maintain their happiness, as they are integral to our educational endeavors. What does the term “New Normal” mean to you in the context of education? For me, “New Normal” signifies a continuous process of renewal, refreshing, and reliving the path of education. It emphasizes adapting to changing circumstances and embracing innovative approaches to education to meet evolving needs effectively. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group, considering their role in education forums like this one? ArdorComm Media Group has been truly fantastic and fabulous in its endeavors. Despite being relatively young, they have maintained quality, consistency, and played a vital role in various education stakeholders’ businesses, including students and faculty. I wholeheartedly support and stand by their efforts, and I believe they will continue to excel in their contributions to the education sector. Thank you for hosting this forum and providing a platform for meaningful discussions.

Exploring the Ever-Evolving Landscape of Healthtech Innovations

In recent years, Healthtech has emerged as a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector, captivating both consumers and investors alike. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a surge in demand for innovative healthcare solutions, prompting the emergence of new technologies and startups aimed at revolutionizing the industry. As we navigate through this transformative period, let’s delve deeper into the world of Healthtech and explore the latest trends, opportunities, and innovations shaping the future of healthcare. Understanding Healthtech Healthtech encompasses a diverse range of technologies and solutions aimed at revolutionizing healthcare delivery, management, and outcomes. From digital health platforms and telemedicine services to AI-powered diagnostics and medical devices, Healthtech spans across various verticals, each with its unique set of challenges and opportunities. The Impact of COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for innovation in the healthcare industry, driving unprecedented demand for virtual care solutions and remote monitoring technologies. Healthtech startups experienced a boom, with investors pouring capital into innovative ventures aimed at addressing the evolving needs of patients and healthcare providers. Emerging Opportunities Despite the recent slowdown in venture capital activity, certain segments within the Healthtech sector continue to thrive. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one such area, with applications ranging from drug discovery to clinical documentation. AI-powered drug discovery, in particular, holds immense promise for accelerating the pace of pharmaceutical research and development, although challenges such as clinical trial timelines and costs remain. Another area of opportunity lies in the field of weight loss drugs, which has witnessed a surge in popularity and efficacy in recent years. With advancements in drug development and the potential to address a significant unmet need, weight loss drugs represent a transformative force in Healthtech, attracting attention from investors and entrepreneurs alike. Leading Healthtech Companies Several notable Healthtech companies have emerged as key players in the industry, leveraging innovative technologies to drive positive outcomes for patients and providers alike. From digital health platforms like Ro and PharmEasy to AI-driven solutions like Tempus and Freenome, these companies are at the forefront of innovation, reshaping the future of healthcare delivery. The Future of Healthtech As we look ahead, the future of Healthtech appears bright, albeit with challenges and uncertainties. While the overall venture capital landscape may experience fluctuations, the demand for innovative healthcare solutions remains strong. From addressing systemic challenges to improving patient outcomes and provider satisfaction, Healthtech holds the key to unlocking new possibilities in healthcare delivery and management. In conclusion, the Healthtech sector continues to evolve at a rapid pace, driven by innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving healthcare outcomes. As we navigate through this transformative period, the opportunities for growth and impact within the Healthtech space are boundless, promising a future where technology plays a central role in shaping the future of healthcare.

Pioneering Education in Coimbatore Tamil Nadu: ArdorComm Media Presents the 11th New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024

As the world navigates through unprecedented times, the landscape of education has been transformed dramatically. Now, more than ever, the need for innovation, adaptability, and collaboration in the education sector is paramount. In the heart of South India, the vibrant city of Coimbatore is set to host the 11th New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024, organized by ArdorComm Media Group. Scheduled for the 3rd of May, this event promises to be a beacon of inspiration, bringing together the brightest minds in academia, industry, and technology to explore the theme: “New Normal Tamil Nadu: Pioneering Education, Skilling, and Employability in the 21st Century Workplace.” Embracing the New Normal in Education Tamil Nadu stands tall as a premier hub for education and skilling initiatives in India. With its progressive policies and diverse array of academic institutions, the state has fostered a culture of innovation and critical thinking. Coimbatore, known for its premier educational institutions and excellent quality of education, serves as the perfect backdrop for this prestigious event. Knowledge Forum: A Platform for Growth The Knowledge Forum at the summit will serve as a melting pot of ideas, insights, and experiences. Academicians, educators, edupreneurs, innovators, and industry experts will converge to share their expertise and accomplishments, all with the aim of driving sustainable growth for the education community. With over 50 speakers, representing a diverse range of perspectives, the forum promises to be intellectually stimulating and enriching. Key Discussion Points The summit will delve into critical topics shaping the future of education, including: Innovation in Teaching and Learning: Leveraging technology and innovative teaching methods to enhance student engagement and outcomes. Skills for the Future Workforce: Strategies for integrating employability skills and career readiness into educational programs. Sustainable Education Practices: Integrating sustainability education into the curriculum to foster responsible citizenship. Digital Literacy and Cybersecurity in Education: Building digital literacy skills among educators and students to navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly. Global Collaboration and Partnerships in Education: Harnessing the power of international collaboration and partnerships to enrich teaching and learning experiences. ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2024 The summit will also shine a spotlight on exemplary contributions and innovative initiatives in the education sector through the ArdorComm Education Leadership Awards 2024. This prestigious accolade will honor educators, institutions, edtech pioneers, and startups that have demonstrated exceptional dedication and innovation in advancing education. The awards aim to recognize those who have tirelessly worked towards enhancing teaching, learning, and employability outcomes, shaping a brighter future for learners worldwide. Nominations and Selection Process ArdorComm invites nominations across six segments, including Higher Education, School Education, Preschools, Skills & Training, Corporate, and Startup. The selection process will adhere to strict terms and conditions to ensure fairness and transparency, with each category aiming to celebrate excellence and outstanding accomplishment in the education sector. Join Us in Shaping the Future of Education The 11th New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024 is not just an event; it’s a call to action. It’s an opportunity for educators, innovators, and industry leaders to come together, share their insights, and inspire change. By collaborating and innovating, we can pioneer a new era of education in Tamil Nadu and beyond. Mark your calendars for the 3rd of May and join us in Coimbatore as we embark on a journey to shape the future of education—one idea, one innovation at a time. Together, let’s pave the way for a brighter tomorrow, where every learner has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in the dynamic 21st-century landscape. For more information and registration details, visit https://ardorcomm-media.com/elsacoimbatore/. Let’s make history together at the 11th New Normal Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2024.

Pharma Industry’s Wishlist for Budget 2024: R&D Incentives and Policy Boost

In anticipation of Budget 2024, the Indian pharmaceutical industry is making a strong plea for fiscal incentives to foster research and development (R&D). With aspirations to reach a market size of USD 400-450 billion by 2047, the sector emphasizes the need for continuous investments in R&D, citing high risk, a long gestation period, and low success rates. Sudarshan Jain, the Secretary General of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance, urged for the upcoming budget to outline conducive policies, offering benefits in terms of both direct and indirect taxes while facilitating ease of doing business for pharmaceutical companies. The industry, set to achieve USD 120-130 billion by 2030, seeks accelerated innovation and R&D to realize its ambitious growth targets. The Promotion of Research & Innovation Program (PRIP) Scheme, introduced in 2023, was acknowledged as a positive step towards spurring innovation in the sector. Healthcare industry body NATHEALTH is advocating for increased healthcare spending to 2.5% of GDP and the rationalization of the GST framework. They aim to enhance the medical value travel segment, address MAT credit issues, and strengthen the healthcare value chain. Budget 2024 should prioritize building local capabilities for healthcare services, even in remote regions, and localize the healthcare value chain. Expectations include a roadmap for long-term infrastructure financing, an increase in medical and nursing colleges, and fiscal reforms in the health insurance sector, according to Narayana Health Executive Vice Chairman Viren Shetty. Metropolis Healthcare MD Ameera Shah seeks a zero per cent GST on diagnostic services and refunds for GST paid on inputs. With 60% of India’s diagnostics reliant on imports, Roche Diagnostics India MD Rishabh Gupta emphasizes the need for rationalizing import tariffs on healthcare products. The overarching goal is to prioritize affordable and accurate diagnostics, transforming India’s healthcare system for the better. Reference is taken from Economic times

Budget 2024: Pharma Industry Urges More Tax Breaks for R&D, Innovation, and Increased Healthcare Spending

Amidst the anticipation surrounding the upcoming Union Budget on February 1, the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry has outlined a comprehensive wishlist for Budget 2024, aiming for policies that foster innovation, research and development (R&D), and increased healthcare spending. Sudarshan Jain, Secretary General of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance, emphasized the need for conducive policies that offer direct and indirect tax benefits to pharmaceutical companies. The focus should be on critical areas such as innovation, R&D, and upgrading healthcare infrastructure. Jain highlighted the significance of continuous investments, especially in a sector with high risks and long gestation periods. Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD and CEO of Fortis Healthcare & President of NATHEALTH, called for a significant hike in healthcare spending to 2.5% of GDP. The proposals presented by NATHEALTH emphasize transformative changes to bridge regional healthcare disparities and strengthen the healthcare value chain. The aim is to enhance medical value travel, address MAT credit issues, and build local capabilities for healthcare services. Ameera Shah, Promoter and Managing Director of Metropolis Healthcare, underscored the importance of the upcoming budget in strengthening India’s healthcare ecosystem. Shah advocated for investments in critical areas like innovation, research, development, technology, and upgrading healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, she called for a 0% GST on diagnostic services, GST refunds on inputs, and rationalizing import tariffs on healthcare products to enhance accessibility and affordability. These recommendations collectively aim to position India as a reliable supplier of medicines and a custodian of global healthcare. The healthcare sector looks forward to policy stability, continuity, and transformative measures in the upcoming budget, recognizing the role it plays in combating present and future healthcare challenges. Source: CNBC-TV18

Ministry of Education Unveils Prerana: A Transformative Learning Initiative

The Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India, has unveiled a transformative initiative, the ‘Prerana: An Experiential Learning Program.’ This week-long residential program is designed to provide a meaningful and inspiring experience to selected students from class IX to XII, fostering leadership qualities and aligning with the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Rooted in the Indian education system and the philosophy of value-based education, Prerana aims to integrate these principles into its curriculum. The program will take place at a Vernacular School established in 1888 in Vadnagar, Gujarat, one of India’s oldest living cities. The school, a testament to Vadnagar’s resilience against challenges like earthquakes, stands as a living heritage site with deep historical roots. Prerana’s curriculum, developed by IIT Gandhi Nagar, revolves around nine value-based themes, including Swabhiman and Vinay, Shaurya and Sahas, and Swatantrata and Kartavya. The program’s schedule includes yoga, mindfulness, and meditation sessions, experiential learning, thematic sessions, and hands-on activities. Evening activities encompass visits to ancient sites, film screenings, and talent shows, providing a holistic approach to learning. The program is open for registration through a dedicated portal, where applicants can submit details for consideration. A rigorous selection process will identify 20 participants (10 boys and 10 girls) each week from diverse regions of the country. The selected participants will benefit from mentorship by professionals from prestigious institutions. Prerana’s vision is to inspire the youth, instill respect for India’s unity in diversity, and contribute to creating a flame-holder for a developed Bharat. Upon completion of the program, participants are expected to carry the ethos of Prerana into their communities, becoming change-makers and inspiring positive transformations. The initiative underscores a commitment to empowering the youth, aligning with the ideals of the Hon’ble Prime Minister and emphasizing the program’s role in shaping the future of the nation.

Thailand Boosts Tourism with Tax Cuts and Extended Hours

Thailand has rolled out a new initiative to stimulate tourism by approving tax cuts on both alcoholic beverages and entertainment venues. The country’s cabinet has given the green light to significant reductions, including lowering wine taxes from 10% to 5% and completely eliminating taxes on spirits, which were previously set at 10%. Additionally, the excise tax imposed on entertainment venues is set to be halved, dropping from 10% to 5%. These tax adjustments are slated to remain in effect until the end of the current year, as confirmed by government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke. This move follows Thailand’s recent decision to extend the operating hours of entertainment venues, allowing them to remain open until 4 AM. The extended hours are a strategic move to cater to night owls and entice more tourists to visit the country. Notably, Thailand had earlier announced a visa waiver for travelers from India and Taiwan, effective from November 2023 until May 2024. During this period, tourists from these regions can enjoy a stay in Thailand for up to 30 days. India has emerged as the fourth-largest source of tourism for Thailand, with approximately 1.2 million arrivals this year, trailing behind Malaysia, China, and South Korea. Government data reveals that, from January to October 29, 2023, Thailand welcomed a total of 22 million visitors, contributing 927.5 billion baht (around $25.67 billion) to the country’s economy. The visa waiver for Indian and Taiwanese travelers aligns with Thailand’s broader strategy to attract more tourists and revitalize its crucial tourism sector. The decision to extend the operating hours of entertainment venues and implement tax cuts on alcoholic beverages and entertainment venues is part of a series of measures aimed at boosting foreign arrivals. These initiatives follow the waiver of visa requirements for Chinese visitors in September, a move targeting one of Southeast Asia’s significant sources of tourists and reflecting the government’s commitment to revitalizing the tourism industry, a key driver of the economy.

India Unveils Multi-Pronged Initiatives to Boost Economic Growth and Skill Development

In a concerted effort to stimulate economic growth and empower the workforce, India has implemented a series of initiatives, including Mudra loans for micro and small businesses, and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes amounting to a substantial Rs 1.97 lakh crore. These endeavors aim to attract global manufacturers, fostering a conducive environment for economic expansion and generating an anticipated 60 lakh new jobs, according to a recent government statement. The Mudra loan initiative, dedicated to micro and small businesses, is geared towards providing financial support to entrepreneurs and bolstering the foundations of grassroots enterprises. This initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Simultaneously, the PLI schemes, with their significant financial commitment, are designed to attract international manufacturers, promoting foreign direct investment and bolstering domestic manufacturing capabilities. The infusion of funds into these schemes is anticipated to catalyze innovation and technological advancement in key sectors, propelling India onto the global economic stage. Moreover, the government’s focus on skill development is underscored by initiatives such as the Prime Minister Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), a flagship program under the Skill India Mission. This program aims to provide skill-based training to the youth across the nation, with a specific emphasis on those hailing from rural areas. The training encompasses Short Term Training (STT) courses and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), effectively equipping individuals with the skills necessary for gainful employment. According to the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, these initiatives collectively contribute to the overarching goal of fostering a skilled and adaptable workforce. The multifaceted approach seeks to address both economic and social dimensions, ensuring that the benefits of development are widespread and inclusive.