MAAC Chandigarh Presented "Tech Mahautsav" – A Premier Event for New Technology Guidance and Career Pathways in Media and Entertainment

 

Chandigarh, 06 July 2024: MAAC a premiere institute and a pioneer in high-end 3D animation Gaming & VFX training is delighted to announce the successful conclusion of the 'MAAC Tech Mahautsav’, held at Punjab Municipal Bhawan, Sector-35 A, Chandigarh. This vibrant event was exclusively designed to offer students with insights into the latest technologies and emerging career opportunities, also exposing them to the burgeoning, AVGC (animation, vfx, gaming & comics) industry, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees.

 

The event brought together dignitaries from the industry and esteemed guest speaker, Mr. Abir Aich, Executive Vice President, New Technologies at Aptech. Mr. Aich shared his extensive knowledge on virtual production, new technologies and avenues to explore career opportunities in the new areas of media and entertainment sector, invaluable for students looking to navigate the dynamic landscape of this industry.

 

While giving a presentation to students about the upcoming trends in the computer graphics, visual effects, and animation industry, Mr. Abir Aich, Executive Vice President of Aptech Limited, said, “There is a huge potential for virtual production in Punjab and Northern India, considering the availability of talent and the rich music industry here.”

 

Since COVID, the demand for virtual production has significantly increased. It is now being used more and more in the media and entertainment industry. In the coming years, this is expected to become a trillion-dollar market in India,"he further said.

 

Alongside were other distinguished guests from MAAC head office including Mr. Amit Dua - National Head (MAAC-Aptech), Mrs. Mala (Industry Connects Alliances & Placement, Aptech), Ms. Poulomee Bandre - General Manager Marketing (MAAC) and Mr. Saumitra Singh, Regional Sales Head (MAAC, North) sharing their expertise and insights, further enriching the learning experience for the students. Their presence underscored the commitment of MAAC to provide top-notch professional growth opportunities for its students.

In addition to the keynote sessions, the event featured an alumni talk session where MAAC's best alumni shared their industry experiences and success stories. These alumni, from MAAC Chandigarh, were thrilled to return to their alma mater and share their journey from student to industry professional, offering insights into industry-specific skill sets.

 

Mr. Varun Roy Director, MAAC Chandigarh said, "Tech Mahautsav was a resounding success, providing aspirants with a comprehensive understanding of the growing AVGC industry. It is MAAC Chandigarh's dedication and commitment to fostering skill development and professional growth among its students. By bringing together industry veterans, current students, and successful alumni, the event aimed to create a vibrant learning environment that encourages innovation and excellence."

 

He added, “ MAAC (Maya Academy of Advanced Creativity) Chandigarh is a premier institute providing comprehensive training in animation, VFX, gaming, and multimedia. With a focus on both technical skills and creative excellence, MAAC Chandigarh equips students with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in the media and entertainment industry. We urge the young aspirants/ prospects in Chandigarh to walk-in to our centre to explore their talent and unleash their creative potential.”

 

Through its top-notch curriculum and comprehensive skill set including technical prowess, industry acumen, creativity, teamwork, adeptness with deadlines, resilience, and personality development, MAAC consistently hones students' abilities across various facets of the Media & Entertainment Industry, including 3D Animation, VFX, Gaming, and Multimedia & Broadcast.

INDUSTRIAL landscape of Tricity becomes Bigger and more Dynamic with Gopal's Sweets joining Mohali Industrial Economic Zone for setting up manufacturing Unit.

MIEZ is a unique industrial initiative by Royale Estate Group which will prove to be a game-changer in terms of industrial revolution in the Tri-city and across the states of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal and J & K. Spread over 150 acres with a vision to eventually take it to 500 acres over the next 3 years, MIEZ's proximity to an International Airport, biggest Railway Junction of the region and close to the Dry Port of Shambhu barrier, augmented by great advantage of connectivity to all the 4 states, makes it the best Industrial Township ever in Tri-City.

MIEZ welcomes Gopal's Sweets a brand and a name synonymous with quality. Gopal Sweets is the biggest, most trusted and most reputed brand across Punjab Haryana and Himachal. With an enviable market credibility, they carry a rich legacy of over 5 decades. Managing director of Gopal's Sweets Pvt. Ltd. Sh Sharanjit Singh says, "With the perishable nature of our products, mainly sweets and other dairy and bakery products, we were looking for the most Central and strategic location from where we could serve all the 4 states within the desirable timelines. We found this huge advantage of location in MIEZ where we are now Region’s Biggest manufacturing unit for Sweets, Namkeens, Bakery and other milk products, at an investment of approximately 150 Cr".

Another notable industry at MIEZ which is nearing completion, is a Food Processing Unit, spread over 4 Acres, at an investment of 100 crore plus. This plant is approved by Ministry of Food Processing, Government of India. Green produce of Punjab, like green peas, cabbage, onions and potatoes, which currently goes to Rudrapur in Uttarakhand for processing & packaging, will no longer have to go to Uttarakhand. This plant at MIEZ will cater for all such operations for the farmers and food growers of Punjab. Equipped with most advanced German machinery and technology, this Food Processing Unit will not only reduce all the overhead cost in terms of transportation, labour and toll etc, but will also create a job opportunity for skilled and unskilled youth of tricity.

Likewise, we have more than 50 reputed industries on board who have joined MIEZ and are in the process of setting up their respective industry, ranging from pharmaceuticals, packaging, food processing, agro and agriculture, engineering, tractors and autoparts, metal and bath fittings, machines, furniture, marbles and granites and so on. A few names from these industries are Comments industry, Zenus Metal Manufacturers, VK Engineering Works, Making Ways Auto Industries, Boparai Auto Industry, Woodcraft, Ruby industries, Health Guard Packaging Pvt Ltd, Ethnic Biotech, Forgo Pharmaceutical Pvt Ltd, Swastik Lifesciences Pharmaceuticals, Raj Steel Furniture, Woodcraft and many more said Mr. Ashish Mittal , Director MIEZ.

Every industry being set up in MIEZ will have all the benefits under Invest. Punjab initiative by Govt of Punjab and under MSME "Make in India" initiative by Govt of India.

Sh Neeraj Kansal, Managing Director, Royale Estate Group, sharing his vision for MIEZ, said that this Industrial Township is going to bring about a new industrial revolution across the region by developing an absolutely modern and state-of-the-art industrial township. It is equipped with facilities and amenities like Convention Centre, centralized Reception lobby, Meeting Rooms, Conference Hall, Food Court, Fully Equipped Laboratory, Skill Development Centre, Staff Canteen and so on.

Col. Inderjeet Suri, President Royale Estate Group, proudly said that their Group has a vision to provide employment to around 50000 skilled and unskilled people across the region at MIEZ, besides boosting the economy of state of Punjab.

Mohali Industrial Association, that is M.I.A has played a very significant role in bringing MIEZ to its current shape and status. Sh. Ashish Mittal, Director MIEZ expressed his deep gratitude to all office- bearers and members of the Mohali Industrial Association and said that they were privileged to have the esteemed presence of Shri Ravi Jeet Singh, President INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS OWNERS ASSOCIATION, Sector 82 , Mohali , SHRI A.R CHOUDHARY, PRESIDENT, CHANALON INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATION Shri Jagdeep Singh, ex-Vice President, Mohali Industrial Association and Sh Iqbal Singh, ex Joint Secy, MIA in today's press conference. He also mentioned Sh. Bhushan Gupta from Bhushan Properties who played an important role in this collaboration. The other notables included Sandeep Bhalla, Rajnish Mahajan, Vivek Sharma and Munish Wayyer.

In the end, Managing Director of Royale Estate Group, Sh. Neeraj Kansal expressed his deep gratitude to all the media persons, reporters, journalists, guests and all dignitaries present during the press conference.

Athletics Federation of India, HSBC India extend best wishes to Team India for Paris Olympics 2024

 

In 2022, HSBC India had announced partnership with AFI to support women athletes

Abhinav Bindra attended the event

Athletic Federation of India (AFI) and HSBC Indiatogether today hosted a grand send-off ceremony for the athletes, who are part of the Indian contingent, representing the country at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. The special gathering, held at The Lalit in Chandigarh, was a celebration of the spirit of excellence and perseverance of our athletes and a testament to the pride and hope that the entire country places in them. Representing the contingent were athletes from various track and field disciplines. 

 

The event was graced by Abhinav Bindra - India’s first-ever individual Olympic gold medalist who encouraged the athletes.  

 

HSBC has a strong commitment towards sports and believesin the transformative power of sports in driving positive change in society and inspiring future generations. HSBC’s association with AFI is a reaffirmation of its commitment towards nurturing talent, particularly amongst women athletes and providing them the support needed to excel at the international level. 

 

On the occasion, Adille J Sumariwalla - President, AFI, emphasized on HSBC India’s continuous support for sports and athletes. “The partnership over the years has not only helped in enhancing training facilities and raise performance levels of our athletes in international events but has also encouraged more companies to come forward and support sports development and infrastructure in the country. The journey to Paris is a result of collective efforts and hard work. We are confident that our athletes will bring home laurels.”

 

Speaking on the occasion of the event, Sandeep Batra, Head – Wealth and Personal Banking, HSBC India, lauded the athletes for their relentless dedication and commitment. "Our athletes embody the true spirit of perseverance and excellence. As you embark on this journey to the Paris Olympics, the hopes and prayers of 1.4 billion Indians are with you. We are inspired by your sporting journeys and hugely supportive of your dreams and remain committed to your welfare. We wish you all the best for the upcoming Paris Olympics."

 

AFI and HSBC India came together in an inspiring display of unity and support as they extended their best wishes to the talented Indian athletes set to represent the country at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Present at the event, which saw over 25 athletes were Parul Chaudhaury (track and field), Annu Rani(javelin), Jyothi Yarraji (hurdles), Jeswin Aldrin (long jumper), Praveen Chithravel (triple jump), Tajinderpal Singh Toor (shot putter) among others.

Kshema brings the gift of Sukriti to Punjab and Haryana farmers

Cultivators in these states can insure more than 100 seasonal crops starting from Rs 499 per acre

 

Hyderabad, June 25, 2024: Kshema General Insurance Limited announced the availability of its flagship crop insurance product Sukriti along with Prakriti in Punjab and Haryana this Kharif season. Farmers in these two states can now protect more than 100 seasonal crops starting from just Rs 499 per acre.

 

The farmers of Punjab and Haryana face multiple challenges in their endeavour of growing food for the nation. Nature’s fury is one of them. Extreme climate events are becoming more intense and frequent. These impact the farmers disproportionately and causes crop loss leading to income shocks.

 

However, farmers can safeguard their income this Kharif season with Kshema’s first-of-its-kind crop insurance product Sukriti. It offers unparalleled flexibility to a farmer who can choose a combination of one major and one minor peril, most likely to damage their crop, from a predetermined list of nine perils. They can make this selection based on climate, region, location of their farm, and historical pattern. Farmers from Punjab and Haryana can choose to insure their crops against hailstorm and animal attack which are more common. However, a cultivator from neighbouring Himachal Pradesh may decide to protect his crops against landslides.

 

C.V. Kumar, Chief Underwriting Officer, Kshema General Insurance Limited said, “We understand the farmer and their challenges. I am delighted to say we considered multiple factors while designing Sukriti to ensure the insurance needs of farmers are met and our mission to safeguard them from income shocks is also fulfilled. Sukriti is affordable and customisable. Its unprecedented feature means each farmer can tailor-make it to their requirement and wishes. It gives the option of enhancing the sum insured by paying additional premium too. We have also eased the process for farmers to buy Sukriti and file claims.”  

 

Karambir Singh Rai, Chief Growth Officer, Kshema General Insurance Limited said, “A farmer can download the Kshema app from Google Playstore and buy Sukriti in a few easy steps. The app allows the farmer to select their crop, village, geo tag their farm, check premium amount, sum insured, perform KYC verification to complete the buying process. Kshema has appointed Point of Sale Persons (POSPs) to hand-hold those farmers who may need assistance at any stage. A farmer can also call on the dedicated helpline number and schedule an in-person meeting to buy Sukriti to protect their crops from perils.”

 

Meanwhile, the nine perils covered are cyclone, inundation (not applicable for hydrophilic crops), flood, hailstorm while the minor perils include earthquake, landslide, fire due to lightning, animal attack (monkey, rabbit, wild boar, elephant) and damage due to aircraft.

 

Apart from Punjab and Haryana, Sukriti is now available in Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and the Union Territories of Puducherry and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

IZRA Couture By Sameer opens its store in Chandigarh : Tricity's New Fashion Destination

Chandigarh June 23, 2024

Chandigarh's fashion scene is about to be revolutionized with the launch of IZRA Couture by Sameer in Sector 17, the city's premier shopping destination. This one-stop designer store caters to the diverse fashion needs of clients from all walks of life. Conceptualised and launched by NIFT alumnus Sameer Gupta, who brings years of expertise from renowned brands like Monte Carlo and GAP, IZRA Couture offers designerwear for women of all ages, exclusive club shirts and partywear for men, trendy outfits for teenagers and young adults, unique designer kidswear with custom-made shoes and accessories, and glamorous evening gowns and dapper suits.

Chief Guest, Mrs. Ranjeeta Mehta, ( Ex Honoury General Secretary) Haryana State Council For Child Welfare, during the launch of the store said, "I extend my heartiest congratulations to Sameer and wish him all the best for his endeavour to offer something new to the residents of Tricity in fashion."

While speaking to mediapersons, Mr. Sameer said, "What sets IZRA Couture apart is its distinction as the only brand in the tricity area offering designer kidswear complete with customized footwear and accessories. 

Additionally, it stands out as the exclusive provider of men's club and partywear in Chandigarh and surrounding areas. Step into this fashionable wonderland and experience Sameer's incredible design process."

From urban professionals to fashion-forward families, IZRA Couture aims to be your ultimate style destination.

Visit IZRA Couture in Sector 17, Chandigarh, and step into a world where fashion dreams come alive!

Mark the new Fashion destination - IZRA Couture, SCO 14, 2nd Floor, Near Neelam Theatre, Sector 17, Chandigarh.

India's Next Leap in MedTech: Introducing MISSO - The Revolutionary Knee Replacement Robot by Meril

CHANDIGARH : 21st June, 2024 - In a groundbreaking advancement for India's medical technology sector, Meril proudly unveils MISSO, Made in India knee replacement robot set to transform the landscape of orthopedic surgery. This state-of-the-art technology marks a significant leap forward in robotic surgery, promising remarkable outcomes and showcasing the nation's prowess in medical innovation.

Developed with cutting-edge technology and designed for versatility, MISSO offers unprecedented precision and consistency. Its advanced capabilities allow for minimally invasive surgery, which significantly reduces recovery time and enhances patient outcomes. Mr. Manish Deshmukh, Head of Marketing, India & Global, at Meril, says, “Meril is pleased to bring MISSO, which has the potential to democratise robotic knee replacement surgery in India. The prevalence of osteoarthritis has surged from ~23 million to 62 million in the last 20-25 years, making it the second-largest disease modality after cardiovascular conditions.The gap between the need and adoption of knee replacement surgery can be addressed more efficiently by the widespread use of robotic surgery. Currently, the affordability of robotic surgery procedures is a challenge in India. Hospitals also hesitate to invest in imported robotic systems because it requires the training of surgeons and OT staff and a long turnaround time for service-related requests. With MISSO, we aim to address these challenges by providing the platform indigenously alongside an ecosystem of training and support that will make robotic surgery highly accessible, not only in metros, but also in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities”.

MISSO’s technological marvel lies in its ability to integrate real-time data with meticulous surgical planning. Utilizing advanced imaging and 3D modeling, the robot assists surgeons in preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance. This ensures that each surgical move is executed with unparalleled accuracy, leading to better alignment and positioning of the knee implants. The precision of MISSO enhances the durability of the knee implants and also improves overall patient satisfaction and mobility post-surgery.

The introduction of robotic-assisted knee replacements, such as those performed by MISSO, represents the future of orthopedic surgery. This shift is driven by the need for improved surgical outcomes, patient safety, and enhanced efficiency in the operating room. Robotic knee surgery offers numerous benefits over traditional methods, including smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced pain for patients, which means a faster return to their daily lives with significantly less discomfort.

“This launch reinforces our leadership in the segment of joint replacement surgeries and robotics in India. We are also actively exploring the export potential of this advanced robotic system to help India lead in making robotic surgery accessible worldwide,” Mr. Deshmukh, added.

Moreover, the launch of MISSO brings advanced healthcare options to patients in India, offering world-class technology that was once only accessible in the western world. With MISSO, surgeons across the country can provide precise and efficient knee surgeries, improving the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from knee ailments.

Misl Satluj’s Urgent Call for Action on Punjab's Water Crisis

Socio-Political Outfit to Launch Movement within Three Months

 

Chandigarh, June 18, 2024: Misl Satluj, a socio-political outfit today announced it would launch a massive agitation if the water crisis in the state is not resolved within the next 90 days. This is in continuation of Mudki Morcha demands, which were partially met. The first phase to stop the concrete lining of Rajasthan feeder canal from Harike to Faridkot was stopped.

Ajaypal Singh Brar, President of Misl Satluj while addressing the media at Chandigarh Press Club here, said, “Punjab is facing an acute water crisis. Borewells have dried up, leaving some villages dependent on tankers. The state's water demand exceeds 50 million acre-feet (MAF), but only 28.5 MAF of river water flows through Punjab. A significant portion of this water is further allocated to Rajasthan and Haryana, both non-riparian states.”

 

Brar elaborated on the key issues, leading to water crisis in the state:

Increased water demand due to rapid industrialization: Punjab's rapid urbanization requires river water commercial and residential needs in urban areas. Presently the demand is being met with borewell from deep aquifers, which may contain carcinogenic elements and 22 lac submersible pumps.

Outdated Water Allocations: Current agricultural water allocations are based on outdated pre-Green Revolution levels, providing only 3.05 cusecs for Malwa and 1.9 cusecs for Doaba. These amounts are insufficient and are further reduced by the dilapidated state of the canal network.

Severe Pollution: Industrial waste from Ludhiana’s dyeing and electroplating units is contaminating the Satluj River through Budda Nalah. This waste is often dumped untreated or pumped back through reverse boring. Similar pollution issues affect Taunsa, Rail Majra, , Mohali district and other areas of Punjab

 

Misl Satluj’s Demands:

 

Devinder Singh Sekhon, another senior leader of Misl Satluj laid stress on the demands of Misl Satluj. He stressed on the need to update water allocations by recalibrating agricultural water allowances to 7 cusecs to meet current needs.

Sekhon said river water should be used to supply urban areas for drinking purposes and there was a need to urgently repair and maintain the canal infrastructure to ensure adequate water distribution.

Misl Satluj stands firmly against the pollution of water and air, he said, adding, “We demand immediate action from the government to address major pollution sources like Budda Nalah.”

“We urge the Punjab Vidhan Sabha to pass a resolution declaring Punjab as the sole owner of all river water flowing through the state. This resolution should nullify all previous water-sharing agreements with other states.”

Sekhon said, Misl Satluj was giving the government a three-month notice period to resolve these demands. If these demands are not met, Misl Satluj will launch a stir to press for necessary action.

He added, Misl Satluj is committed to ensuring supply of unpolluted river water for agricultural, commercial and residential needs of the people of Punjab. Our party aims to address these critical issues promptly and effectively. We will not tolerate any delay in protecting Punjab’s vital water resources.

Moonstar Kaur also spoke on the occasion, about the water pollution in the state.

 

A Dangerous Misconception

Punjab has abundant river water but denies Haryana and Rajasthan their rightful shares, causing harmful hostility. In reality, Punjab's river water has decreased to 26.5 M.A.F. Rajasthan takes 11.2 M.A.F., and Haryana 7.83 M.A.F. from Punjab’s rivers, along with 5.6 M.A.F. from the Yamuna and 1.1 M.A.F. from the Ghaggar. Punjab is left with 9.47 M.A.F. Despite its larger area (50,362 sq. km vs. Haryana's 44,212 sq. km), Punjab gets less water. To compensate, Punjab uses around 1.5 million tubewells, depleting subsoil reserves and causing soil and health issues. According to the Helsinki Rules and Indian Constitution, Punjab, as the riparian state, is entitled to its river water. Sadly, Punjab's leaders are not highlighting these facts.