Press release: Northern Uni Set To Launch End-to-End Student-Led Satellite Project

 

Northern Uni Set To Launch End-to-End Student-Led Satellite Project
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1. The soon to be launched Satellite will carry an array of sophisticated instruments designed to study the Space atmosphere and demonstrate communication technologies.
2. This also marks the first student-led Satellite Technology project for the Government School students of Jaffna region in Sri Lanka.

Chennai, 4th October 2024: In commemoration of World Space Week, Northern Uni today signed a strategic MoU with Space Kidz India to launch a collaborative student-led satellite project, marking a monumental step in space education for the northern region of Sri Lanka. The MoU was signed in the city in the presence of Dr. Prafulla Kumar Jain, Director - InSpace Ahmedabad, Mr. Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman - SLIIT Northern Uni, Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder & CEO - SpaceKidz India, Ms. Alma Okpalefe, Executive Director - World Space Week Association and Dr. Saranya Jaikumar, Educational Psychologist, symbolizing the region's first foray into space technology. This ambitious project will bring together students from both Northern Uni and Government schools in Jaffna, along with students from India, to jointly design, develop, and launch a satellite. The satellite will carry sophisticated instruments aimed at studying the space atmosphere and demonstrating cutting-edge communication technologies.

This collaborative effort helmed by Northern Uni is expected to yield invaluable data for scientific research while showcasing the technological prowess of student innovators from both nations. This project also offers students a firsthand exposure to satellite technology and also the chance to participate in groundbreaking research that has the potential to contribute innovative solutions to global challenges. The initiative will equip students with essential skills in satellite development, data analysis, and communication technologies, preparing them for future careers in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. By engaging in this landmark project, students from both countries will play a role in advancing space research and promoting technological innovation that benefits society.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman SLIIT Northern Uni, said, "This initiative is a giant leap for both Sri Lanka and India in cultivating a culture of scientific collaboration and mutual innovation. Our students, the future citizens of both nations, will gain unparalleled exposure to the intricacies of satellite technology. What excites me most is the way this project fosters cross-border collaboration among students from different backgrounds, cultures, and educational systems. They will not only develop advanced skills in science and engineering but also learn the value of teamwork and shared goals. Through this project, we are building not just a satellite, but a future where innovation knows no borders.”

Adding to this Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder and CEO of Space Kidz India, said, "This project represents a shared vision for both India and Sri Lanka—one that sees education, technology, and space exploration as tools for uniting people and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. By engaging students from both countries, we are planting the seeds of a future generation that will work collaboratively on global challenges. These young minds will become the torchbearers of scientific progress, and their participation in building and launching this satellite is just the beginning. Space technology is an incredibly powerful platform, and through this project, we aim to inspire students to look beyond geographical boundaries and become true innovators and leaders in space science.”

The project is structured into two key phases. 

Phase 1 will focus on training students in space science and technology, with 50 school students from Sri Lanka, 10 school students from India, and 50 college students undergoing comprehensive training. This phase is designed to give participants a foundational understanding of satellite development and space missions, offering a rich educational experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights.

Phase 2 will involve 30 college students from Sri Lanka who will be directly engaged in building, integrating, and preparing the satellite for its eventual launch. The collaborative process will allow them to work alongside Indian experts and their peers, gaining hands-on experience in satellite construction. Furthermore, 15 college students and 50 school students from Sri Lanka will travel to India to witness the satellite launch, creating a powerful learning opportunity that will inspire future generations to pursue careers in space science and technology.

About Northern Uni -  Northern Uni is dedicated to providing world-class education and fostering innovation, with a particular focus on STEM subjects. The university strives to offer equal opportunities for all students, and its satellite project represents a critical step in expanding access to space technology in Sri Lanka.

About Space Kidz India -  Space Kidz India is a renowned organization dedicated to promoting space education and research. With a successful track record of satellite launches and space missions, Space Kidz India plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of space science in India and around the world.

Photo Caption : Image 1 

From Left to Right: Students of SLIIT Northern Uni; G L Gnanatheva, Minister (Commerce), Sri Lanka Deputy High Commission;  Dr Saranya Jaikumar, Educational Psychologist;  Mr Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman, SLIIT Northern Uni; Dr Srimathy Kesan, Founder & CEO – Space Kidz India; Dr Prafulla Kumar, Director – InSpace, Ahmedabad and students of Space Kidz India.

Press Release_AkzoNobel celebrates the enduring power of paint and human spirit at the World's Highest Motorable Village

 

Kaza (Himachal Pradesh), October 3, 2024

 

AkzoNobel celebrates the enduring power of paint and human spirit at the World's Highest Motorable Village

 

AkzoNobel India announced the completion of a Let’s Colour initiative in three remote villages in Himachal Pradesh that literally takes the transformative power of its paint to the top of the world!

 

Mr. Rahul Jain, ADC of Kaza and Chief Guest of the event, inaugurated the program by lighting a lamp in front of the statue of Lord Buddha. The event was further attended by lamas from Komic and Langza monasteries, along with over 100 residents of Komic, Hikkim, and Langza villages.

 

The unique “Let’s Colour” project was staged in Komic (the world’s highest village reachable by a motorable road); Hikkim (home to the world’s highest post office); and Langza (where marine fossils older than the Himalayas have been found). 

Situated more than 15,000 feet above sea level (around the same height as the base of Mount Everest), the villagers – who are mostly Tibetan Buddhists – endure winter temperatures that regularly dip below -25°C, necessitating the hassle of annual repainting. This now stands changed as 20 painters used more than 10,500 liters of the company’s Dulux Weathershield range of exterior emulsions and enamels to ensure longer lasting all-weather protection for the tribal communities.

“This is more than a ‘Let’s Colour’ project, it symbolizesAkzoNobel’s commitment to paint the future for communities anywhere in the world. Paint really has more power than we think. While creating inspired living space for the residents today, it’s going beyond to provideenduring protection against extreme Himalayan winters and preserve the region’s centuries old Buddhist spiritual and cultural tapestry,” said Rajiv Rajgopal, Chairman and Managing Director of Akzo Nobel India Limited.

 

The transformation of the three villages located in the SpitiValley - a high-altitude cold desert region of the Himalayasin Himachal Pradesh – happened over the course of four months. The revitalization that covered a significant 300,000 sq. feet area included more than 100 homes, three schools, three monasteries, 8 cafés and 12 homestays. 

 

The transformation also revived a number of buildings integral to the cultural identity of the region, such as the 14th-century Tangyud monastery (one of the oldest in the world) and the Komic museum. 

Collaborating with the villagers to, AkzoNobel team chose a palette of soulful hues steeped in Buddhist traditions - blues for universal compassion, whites symbolizing purity and reds for blessings.  

 

The project's impact extends well beyond aesthetics. A local artist also painted a series of purposeful muralsdesigned to help boost tourism by creating a more vibrant and inviting environment. The young Buddhist monk with aprayer wheel in residence and a meditating Buddha paint apicture of tranquillity at the monastery. Art interventions on the region’s vulnerable snow-leopards, Himalayan ibexes, and yaks spread awareness of native species. The stargazing mural encourages tourists to marvel at the rare sight of Milky Way galaxy.  

 

“We’re extremely proud to harness the transformative power of paint to uplift communities and inspire positive change,” adds Rajgopal. “Whether it involves rejuvenating the timeless Blue City appeal of Jodhpur and keeping homes cooler in the blistering heat, or safeguarding villages on top of the world from extreme sub-zero winters.”

 

AkzoNobel's global “Let's Colour” initiative was launched in 2009. To date, over 100 million people  across 46 countries have benefitted from 3,000 projects, using in excess of two million liters of paint. 

 

About AkzoNobel 

Since 1792, we’ve been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people’s lives and protect what matters most. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance everyday life. Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It’s what you’d expect from a pioneering and long-established paints company that’s dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today – while creating an even better tomorrow. Let’s paint the future together.

 

About Akzo Nobel India Limited​
Akzo Nobel India is present in India for 70 years. In 2008, the company became a member of the AkzoNobel Group. With an employee strength of around 1,500, AkzoNobel India has five manufacturing sites, two RD&I centers, regional offices and a distribution network spread across the country. All manufacturing facilities have a state-of-the-art environmental management system. It’s commitment to Health, Safety, Environment and Security (HSE&S) has been among the best-in-class globally, with due care being taken to protect people and the environment. For more information, please visit www.akzonobel.co.in

 

[PRESS RELEASE] Zoom Phone Now Available in India

 Zoom Phone Now Available in India 

Multinational organizations and businesses can now have access to Zoom India’s first cloud phone solution licensed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) India 

INDIA, Delhi, October 3 — Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZM) today announced the launch of its industry-leading Zoom Phone in India, commencing with the availability of Zoom Phone service with native India phone numbers in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle (Pune). Zoom Phone brings multinational corporations (MNCs) with a domestic presence and homegrown companies unrivaled simplicity and modern functionality to their distributed hybrid workforce, as well as global native coverage in 50 countries and territories.  

The native phone number support will be available starting with the Maharashtra Telecom Circle (Pune), followed by Karnataka (Bangalore), Tamil Nadu (Chennai), Andhra Pradesh (Hyderabad), Mumbai and Delhi telecom circles, covering all the major technology centers in India.  

Zoom India received the Unified License with Access — All/PAN India and Long Distancelicenses from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, in April 2023. Thereafter, Zoom India focused on establishing its dedicated domestic infrastructure for Zoom Phone in India and complying with regulatory requirements. This effort enables Zoom to lead the industry with the launch of the first-of-its-kind licensed cloud private branch exchange(PBX) service bundled with local phone numbers for India. 

“Zoom’s cloud PBX service meets the requirements of India’s Unified Telecom license which requires building the dedicated local interconnection infrastructure in accordance with the regulatory requirements. This demonstrates Zoom’s commitment to bringing a trusted service that our customers want,” said Velchamy Sankarlingam, president of product and engineering, Zoom. “Globally, Zoom Phone saw continued expansion in the market, amassing five Zoom Phone customers with 100k+ seats in Q1 FY25,  demonstrating our customers’ trust in Zoom for critical employee and customer experience processes. Our latest offering reaffirms Zoom’s leadership in delivering seamless cloud services on a global scale, enhanced by local investments to help ensure compliance and service excellence in every market, including India.”

With an intuitive and familiar interface, Zoom Phone offers reliable, secure, and flexible voice communication features that seamlessly integrate with Zoom Workplace, the company’s open collaboration platform with Zoom AI Companion. Zoom Phone provides local telephony servicesand is available as an add-on to Zoom's existing paid customers. With support for inbound and outbound calling through the public switched telephone network (PSTN), enterprise customers can seamlessly replace their existing PBX solution and consolidate their business communication requirements into one platform.

“We are excited to bring Zoom Phone to India, first rolling it out in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle (Pune), empowering multinational enterprises and homegrown companies of all sizes to support dynamic workstyles, improve employee engagement, and elevate the customer experience,” said Sameer Raje, general manager and head of India & SAARC region, Zoom. “The launch of Zoom Phone marks a significant milestone in Zoom’s commitment to the Indian market. This achievement represents our dedication to delivering a reliable collaboration platform that powers limitless human connection and solves real business problems for our customers.”

In addition to its comprehensive features, Zoom Phone is now boosted with AI Companion capabilities to enhance call productivity. Users can request post-call summaries and next steps, allowing them to focus on conversations instead of taking notes. Voicemail prioritization elevates urgent messages, moving them to the top of the queue, while voicemail task extraction delivers tasks from voicemails, helping users understand the next steps without listening to every message. Zoom Phone integrates with leading business applications, contact center partners, and hardware providers, offering an all-in-one collaboration platform for MNCs with a domestic presence and businesses of all sizes. 

“The availability of Zoom Phone is timely, reflecting the trend of strong demand for Unified Communications as a Service solutions integrated with telephony in India. By offering a single platform with enterprise-class features, Zoom Phone addresses the growing modern collaboration needs of local companies and global businesses with presence in India as they look to unify their employee and customer communication channels with a solid foundation in voice,” said Krishna Baidya, senior industry director, Frost & Sullivan. “In addition to streamlining communications with one platform, Zoom Phone stands out with its scalability, security, and user-friendly interface.” 

To learn more about Zoom Phone, please visit the Zoom Phone page. 

About Zoom
Zoom’s mission is to provide one platform that delivers limitless human connection. Reimagine teamwork with Zoom Workplace — Zoom’s open collaboration platform with AI Companion empowers teams to be more productive. Together with Zoom Workplace, Zoom’s Business Services for sales, marketing, and customer care teams, including Zoom Contact Center, strengthen customer relationships throughout the customer lifecycle. Founded in 2011, Zoom is publicly traded (NASDAQ:ZM) and headquartered in San Jose, California. Get more information at zoom.com.

Zoom Press Contact
Hayley Yap 
APAC Communications Lead
press@zoom.us

Press Release | Thomas Cook India Group enters into a Joint Venture to build Generative AI solutions for the Travel Domain with Atirath Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

 Thomas Cook India Group enters into a Joint Venture to build Generative AI solutions for the Travel Domain with Atirath Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

   Focus on growth & enhanced customer experience

 

Mumbai, October 1, 2024^: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the entire Travel ecosystem. Digital First customers are driving demand for diverse travel experiences that are customised to their preferences and want these seamlessly fulfilled. Travel providers on the other hand, are challenged with personalisation to scale and  providing relevant recommendations, while delivering a seamless customer experience.

 

The Thomas Cook India Group intends to better serve the rapidly growing travel market and evolving travellers to create growth opportunities – via custom built, generative AI powered, voice enabled solutions with local language transcribing and speech capabilities, capable of learning and improving continuously.

 

To achieve a robust, scalable and custom built Gen AI solution for the Travel Domain, the Thomas Cook India Group has entered into a Joint Venture with Atirath Technologies Private Limited.

 

Projected benefits to the Thomas Cook India Group:

·         Ability to extend reach and serve more customers

·         Address them better with local language capabilities

·         Create a seamless digital journey moving customers directly to online transactions

·         Reduce human dependence to scale up

·         Assist sellers - improving productivity and customer experience

·         Create a completely new distribution model

 

Madhavan Menon, Executive Chairman Thomas Cook India Group, said, “I am delighted to announce our JV with Atirath Technologies Private Limited that is aimed at creating potent growth and customer experience capabilities for the TCIL Group in the rapidly evolving space of AI solutions.

This is a business imperative, given the need to scale volumes and productivity without a corresponding linear cost structure and is aligned with our Customer & Digital First strategy.

Today, AI (especially Gen AI) has found its way into every customer use case and is becoming the new normal in terms of meeting customer expectations and improved service delivery. I am sure this partnership with the dynamic team at Atirath, will help enhance TCIL’s leadership in the travel industry and give us an early mover advantage in the exciting new frontier of Generative AI.”

Celebrate Coffee Day with Wonderchef’s Premium Coffee Machines!

 

1. Regalia Brew Coffee Maker (550 W) - 

   • Stainless steel body, 700ml borosilicate glass carafe.
   • 3-in-1 for filter coffee, espresso, and cappuccino.
   • Auto shut-off, removable cone filter, and makes up to 7 cups.
   • A perfect gifting option with a 2-year warranty.

2. Regenta Espresso Coffee Maker (5-bar)

   • Ideal for espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes.
   • Includes a steamer, metal portafilter, and temperature dial.
   • A 2-year warranty makes it a reliable choice for home brews.

3. Regalia Electric Coffee Grinder

   • Burr grinder with 31 grinding settings for variable coffee texture.
   • Perfect for espresso, cappuccino, French press, and more.
   • An excellent gifting option with a 2-year warranty.

4. Regenta Espresso Coffee Machine (19-bar)

   • A powerful espresso maker with a steamer and metal portafilter.
   • Perfect for cappuccinos, lattes, and espressos at home.
   • Backed by a 2-year warranty.

5. Regalia Fully Automatic Coffee Machine

   • Features a large 7-inch display for brewing a variety of coffee styles like Americano, Cappuccino, Latte, and more.
   • Sleek design for a fully automatic brewing experience.

Join Spectacular Diwali Celebrations in Abu Dhabi!

 

Join Spectacular Diwali Celebrations in Abu Dhabi!

An exciting line-up of activities for the special occasion makes the city a perfect gateway for Indian holiday-goers this festive season

New Delhi, India – 26th September 2024: Get ready to be dazzled! Experience Abu Dhabi has unveiled an incredible line-up of events and festive experiences, specially curated for Diwali 2024.

Join the celebration with 'Iss saal Abu Dhabi wali Diwali' (this year, it’s an Abu Dhabi Diwali)! The city warmly welcomes Indians from around the world to create unforgettable memories with their loved ones this special occasion in Abu Dhabi. The Diwali festivities planned from 31 October to 9 November 2024 range from diverse celebratory experiences to family adventures and contemporary entertainment.

You can enjoy an adventure-filled day at Yas Island, exploring a wide range of thrilling theme parks. Experience the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, meet your favorite characters at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, or enjoy water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi. For Diwali, Yas Island Theme Parks is offering a special deal: four tickets for the price of three across multiple theme parks in Abu Dhabi, valid until 31 October.

For those seeking an authentic taste of home, dive into a vibrant and flavorful spread at the Diwali Spice Market at Hilton Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, on 31 October and 1 November. Music lovers will be in for a treat with AR Rahman live in concert and Diljit Dosanjh’s spectacular Dil Luminati Tour at the Etihad Arena on 2 November and 9 November, respectively. And don’t miss the stunning firework display lighting up the Abu Dhabi Corniche on 31 October, adding an unforgettable sparkle to your Diwali celebrations.

And while in the city, culture enthusiasts can explore the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Qasr Al Watan. Nature lovers can enjoy sunrise kayaking at the serene Mangrove National Park and experience the allure of the desert with a thrilling safari. Shoppers can revel in shopping escapades at malls like Yas Mall and The Galleria, while foodies can indulge in diverse culinary experiences, from traditional Emirati cuisine to classic, hearty Indian dishes and everything in between.

With its proximity and excellent connectivity, Abu Dhabi’s vibrant tapestry of experiences is easily accessible from major Indian cities. For more information on Diwali events and offers, visit ExperienceAbuDhabi.ae.

Book your trip now to experience the Emirati hospitality and sparkle of Diwali in Abu Dhabi!

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions.

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies, and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage, and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives, and creative thought.

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae