With SMOODH Lassi, Parle Agro took lassi to new heights of delight and indulgence. With 50% dahi content, this lassi is wonderfully thick and creamy, delivering a delicious, smooth, and satisfying drinking experience. SMOODH Lassi offers the classic lassi taste, with a hint of rose creating a flavour that is refreshing. It’s the perfect beverage for relaxing moments – whether it’s a quick snack, a family gathering, serving guests or simply a refreshing pick-me up.

Making SMOODH Lassi even more unique is its packaging. Parle Agro is the only national player offering lassi in cutting-edge aseptic PET packaging at a competitive price of Rs. 20 for 180 ml. This innovative packaging ensures the lassi is free from trans fats and preservatives, while offering a six-month shelf life. Its vibrant, trendy design is eye-catchy and appealing, making it stand out in a crowded market. Additionally, its youthful look and convenient size make it ideal for on-the-go consumption.

Parle Agro had launched the campaign for SMOODH Lassi with a TVC featuring brand ambassador Varun Dhawan in a dual role. Dhawan’s portrayal of both a customer seeking the ultimate lassi experience and a shopkeeper delivering it highlights SMOODH Lassi’s superior quality and irresistible taste. It emphasizes SMOODH Lassi’s creamy texture, delightful flavour, and refreshing qualities.

Commenting on the launch of SMOODH Lassi, Nadia Chauhan, Joint Managing Director, Parle Agro, said, “With SMOODH Lassi we are offering a premium, creamy, and rich dairy based beverage. We’ve carefully crafted SMOODH Lassi to exceed consumer expectations, focusing on quality and taste. Our campaign with Varun Dhawan, is designed to resonate with consumers, positioning SMOODH Lassi as a standout choice in the crowded lassi market. With this approach, we aim to elevate the product’s visibility and strengthen our leadership in beverage innovation.”

Parle Agro’s launch of SMOODH Lassi is a smart move to tap into the large, mostly unorganized lassi market in India, which is worth over INR 3000 crore (according to internal estimates). Although the loose lassi market is big, the packaged lassi sector doesn’t have a strong national brand presence yet. Parle Agro seeks to leverage its leadership in the industry to shape and lead the development of the “Lassi Category” in India with SMOODH Lassi.

SMOODH Lassi is available nationwide, ensuring easy access for both urban and rural consumers.

Watch the TVC for SMOODH Lassi in the link below:
YT Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5GJ3g5wSUw

ಈ ಕಾರ್ಯಕ್ರಮದಲ್ಲಿ ಪರಿಸರತಜ್ಞರಾದ ವಡಯಕ್ಕಂಡಿ ನರಾಯಣನ್ ಮತ್ತು ಟ್ರೀಟ್ಯಾಗ್ ಸಹ ಸ್ಥಾಪಕರಾದ ಮೊಹಮ್ಮದ್ ವಜೀರ್ ಅವರ ಪರಿಸರ ಸಂರಕ್ಷಣಾ ಕ್ಷೇತ್ರದಲ್ಲಿ ಮಾಡಿದ ಕೊಡುಗೆಗಳಿಗೆ ಗೌರವ ನೀಡಲಾಯಿತು. ಪೂರಕ ನಗರೀಕರಣದ ಪರಿಣಾಮವಾಗಿ, ಕಳೆದ ಐದು ದಶಕಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರಿನ ಹಸಿರು ಪ್ರದೇಶದ 30 ಚದರ ಕಿಲೋಮೀಟರ್ ಹಾನಿ ಸಂಭವಿಸಿದೆ. ಇದಕ್ಕೆ ಪ್ರತಿಯಾಗಿ, ‘ಪೀಪಲ್’ಸ್ ಪ್ಲಾನೆಟ್’ ತಮ್ಮ ‘ರಿಕ್ಲೇಮ್ ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು’ ಅಭಿಯಾನವನ್ನು ಪ್ರಾರಂಭಿಸಿತು. ಈ ಅಭಿಯಾನ, ಬೆಂಗಳೂರಿನ ನಷ್ಟವಾದ ಹಸಿರು ಪ್ರದೇಶವನ್ನು ಪುನಃ ಸ್ಥಾಪಿಸಲು ಮತ್ತು ನಗರೀಕರಣದ ಹಾನಿಯನ್ನು ಸಮತೋಲನಗೊಳಿಸಲು ಒಂದು ಸಕ್ರಿಯ ಪ್ರಯತ್ನವಾಗಿದೆ.

ಅದರ ವಿಶಿಷ್ಟ ಮಾರ್ಗ ಪೀಪಲ್’ಸ್ ಪ್ಲಾನೆಟ್ ಜನಸಾಮಾನ್ಯರನ್ನು ಪ್ರೇರಿತ ಮಾಡುವ ವಿಶಿಷ್ಟ ವಿಧಾನಗಳನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿದೆ. ಪ್ರತಿ ಮರವನ್ನು ಜಿಯೋ‍ ಟ್ಯಾಗ್ ಮಾಡುವ ಮೂಲಕ, ಹಳೇ ಹಸಿರು ಪ್ರದೇಶಗಳನ್ನು ಮರುಸ್ಥಾಪನೆ ಮಾಡಲು ಮತ್ತು ಉದ್ದೇಶಿತ ಪರಿಣಾಮಗಳನ್ನು ಸಾಧಿಸಲು ತಂತ್ರಜ್ಞಾನವನ್ನು ಬಳಕೆ ಮಾಡಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಈ ಉತ್ಸಾಹವು ಸೈಂಟ್ ಜೋಸೆಫ್ ವಿಶ್ವವಿದ್ಯಾಲಯದಲ್ಲಿ ಶ್ರೀ ಎನ್.ಎ.ಹರಿಸ್ ಅವರು ಮೊದಲ ಸಸಿಯನ್ನು ನೆಡುವ ಮೂಲಕ ಪ್ರಾರಂಭವಾಯಿತು.

ಶಾಸಕರ ಮಾತುಗಳು
ಮೂಲ ಸಸಿ ನೆಡುವ ವೇಳೆ ಶ್ರೀ ಎನ್.ಎ. ಹರಿಸ್ ಹೇಳಿದರು: ಇಂದು ನಾವು ಹಸಿರು ಭವಿಷ್ಯವನ್ನು ಗಟ್ಟಿಯಾಗಿ ಸ್ಥಾಪಿಸುವ ದಿಶೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ಒಂದು ದೊಡ್ಡ ಹೆಜ್ಜೆ ಹಾಕಿದ್ದೇವೆ. ಮರಗಳನ್ನು ನೆಡುವುದು ಕೇವಲ ಪ್ರಕೃತಿಯನ್ನು ಉಳಿಸುವುದರಲ್ಲ. ಇದು ನಮ್ಮ ಸಮುದಾಯಗಳು, ನಮ್ಮ ಆರೋಗ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ನಮ್ಮ ಗ್ರಹವನ್ನು ಉಳಿಸುವತ್ತ ಹೆಜ್ಜೆ ಅಭಿಯಾನದ ವ್ಯಾಪ್ತಿಯು ಈ ಅಭಿಯಾನವು ಜಯನಗರ, ಅಂಜನಾಪುರ, ಇಂದಿರಾನಗರ, ಸದಾಶಿವನಗರ, ಎಚ್ಆರ್‌ಬಿಆರ್ ಲೇಔಟ್, ವಿಶ್ವೇಶ್ವರಯ್ಯ ಲೇಔಟ್ ಮತ್ತು ಕೊರಮಂಗಲ ಸೇರಿದಂತೆ ನಗರಾದ್ಯಂತ ಹಲವೆಡೆಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ನಡೆಯಲಿದೆ. 2025ರ ವೇಳೆಗೆ ಭಾರತಾದ್ಯಂತ ಒಂದು ಮಿಲಿಯನ್ ಮರಗಳನ್ನು ನೆಡುವ ಗುರಿಯನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿರುವ ಈ ಅಭಿಯಾನ, ಬೆಂಗಳೂರಿನ ಹಸಿರು ತೋಟಗಳ ಪರಂಪರೆಯನ್ನು ಪುನಃ ಸ್ಥಾಪಿಸಲು ಮತ್ತು ಶಾಶ್ವತ ಪರಿಸರಪ್ರಿಯತೆಯತ್ತ ಎಲ್ಲರನ್ನು ಪ್ರೇರಿಸಲು ಸಂಕಲ್ಪಗೊಂಡಿದೆ. ಪ್ರೇರಕ ಶಕ್ತಿಯ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಪೀಪಲ್’ಸ್ ಪ್ಲಾನೆಟ್‌ನ ಪ್ರೇರಕ ಶಕ್ತಿ ಜಯನಿ ಬೆನ್‌ಹೈಮ್ ಅವರೇ ಆಗಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಈ ಉದ್ಯಮಿ ಮತ್ತು ಪರೋಪಕಾರಿ ಅವರು
ಪರಿಸರ ರಕ್ಷಣೆಯ ಕಡೆ ತಮ್ಮ ದಿಟ್ಟ ದೃಷ್ಟಿಯಿಂದ ಸಮುದಾಯದ ಒಳಿತಿಗೆ ಬದ್ಧರಾಗಿದ್ದಾರೆ.

The most common causes of strabismus in childhood or infancy are Decreased vision in one or both eye due to various conditions like congenital/developmental cataract, retinal issues like retinopathy of prematurity, optic nerve disorders. Refractive errors where child has to use glasses Certain syndromes and neurological disorders Idiopathic/ genetic When an adult presents with squint on the other hand, it may be a childhood squint that was left untreated or it my be due to other causes like paralysis of the nerves supplying the extraocular muscles in case of uncontrolled diabetics or neurological issues, thyroid disorders and trauma to the eyes.

The presenting symptoms of squint are Appearance of squint in one or both eyes alternatively bnormal head posture
Decreased vision in one or both eyes Asthenopic symptoms like headache Diplopia or double vision in some cases. The treatment of squint is largely based on the cause. One of the common myths around squint in our society is that it’s just a cosmetic blemish which may not be treated.

Many infact consider squint as a lucky charm and refrain from getting treatment for the same. Another misconception is that there is no need for correction of squint in childhood and treatment can wait till the child becomes older . This is unfortunately
incorrect. If squint is left untreated in a child , it can lead to amblyopia or lazy eye and inadequate development of stereopsis, depth perception and three dimensional vision.

Therefore it is best to treat squint at the earliest . However when it’s left untreated, it can also be treated in adulthood for the purpose of cosmesis. Sometimes squint also needs to be treated to address double vision in both children and adults Treatment of squint involves treating of cause like removal of any cataract, treatment of refractive error with glasses, patch therapy, home based or computer based exercises, prisms for diplopia and surgery Surgery in squint requires realignment of extraocular muscles. This surgery is usually a day care procedure .

In children general anaesthesia may be needed for surgery, but in adults it can be done under local anaesthesia. Surgery in squint is known to be predictable and safe In conclusion, squint is a common eye problem which can easily be treated. Anyone having this condition is advised to contact an ophthalmologist preferably a strabismus specialist at the earliest.

The inaugural function commenced with the welcome address by Dr. N V R Naidu, Principal of M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests and emphasized the importance of research and innovation for a sustainable future.

Dr. Harish Barshilia, Chief Guest of the conference and Cluster Chairman of Materials at CSIR- National Aerospace Laboratories, Bengaluru, delivered the inaugural address. Dr. Barshilia highlighted India’s commitment to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, the drive towards achieving Net-Zero emissions, and the country’s ambitious solar power and mineral exploration initiatives. He emphasized the role of advanced materials in achieving these goals.

The Guest of Honour, Prof. Ashok M Raichur from the Department of Materials Engineering at IISc, Bengaluru, spoke on the significance of material technology in everyday life. He discussed recent advancements in recycling, composites, ceramics, and additive manufacturing, underscoring the essential role of sustainable materials in addressing environmental challenges.

Dr. Karisiddappa, Chief Academic Advisor at Gokula Education Foundation (Engineering & General Sciences), addressed the audience on the characteristics of materials and the challenges of durability, energy consumption, water usage, and carbon emissions. His insights highlighted the need for innovative solutions in material sciences.

Dr. Parswanath H V, Chief Executive of GEF (Engineering & General Sciences), spoke on the critical importance of responsible disposal and sustainable lifecycle management of materials. The presidential address was delivered by Dr. M R Seetharam, Vice-Chairman of Gokula Education Foundation, Director of Ramaiah Institute of Technology, and Member of the Legislative Council, Government of Karnataka. Dr. Seetharam emphasized Karnataka’s leadership in resource harvesting, the exploitation of non-conventional energy sources, and the importance of safety in material applications. He also discussed the ongoing initiatives and challenges in achieving sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all dignitaries, participants, and organizers for making the conference a success. ICRAES 2024 will continue with technical sessions addressing innovations in material technology, sustainable engineering practices, and next-generation materials, aligning with India’s vision for a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

ZEISS India Global Capability Center is a strategic hub that will tap into Bengaluru’s deep IT talent pool to drive technology solutions and further expand ZEISS’s global R&D capabilities. The premise spans across 43,000 sq.ft. and will accommodates 600+ employees withdeep domain expertise in the field of Application research for Medical Technologies,Vision care, Cyber Security,Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Excellence and Digital Transformation.The company aims todouble this current workforce by 2028.

Addressing the media and the audience at the inaugural event, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister of Electronics, IT & BT (Information Technology and Biotechnology), Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, Karnataka said, “ZEISS’s journey in India is a testament to our nation’s strength as a premier global investment hub, attracting and retaining top-tier companies. India now hosts over 4,000 Global Capability Centers (GCCs), with Karnataka alone accounting for 38% of these. The state has the potential to drive growth across diverse sectors, including agritech, aerospace, and technology, and I am excited to see the positive outcomes of public-private partnership. I encourage more such alliances to drive impactful solutions.”

ZEISS has made a significant impact in meeting essential vision needs, particularly in underserved rural areas. Together, we can address pressing vision issues, especially among school children, where undiagnosed problems can affect academic progress.”

Mr. Dhaval Radia (Chief Financial Officer, ZEISS India) added, “At ZEISS India Global Capability Center, we are investing in building a sustainable and scalable innovation framework for the ZEISS Group. This center will accelerate the digital transformation of our growing global operations and stands as a clear testament to our unwavering commitment to building a solid foundation for ZEISS’s growth in India.”

On the momentous occasion of GCC Inauguration, ZEISS India also collaborated with the Karnataka Government to enhance the region’s Research and Development (R&D) ecosystem for emerging technologies. This joint R&D initiative will support Karnataka’s vibrant start-up ecosystem by establishing a collaborative center where ZEISS will contribute with itsinfrastructure and expertise while start-ups bring along theagility and disruptive innovation. The collaboration shall seek to accelerate the commercialization of cutting-edge products, such as AI-driven diagnostics and smart optical devices, aiming for a significant percentage of these developments to reach the market within 3 years.

In addition tothe Joint Research and Development (R&D) Program, ZEISS India also announced the collaboration with the Karnataka Government to make quality vision-care more accessible across Karnataka’s rural and underserved regions. Through the Aloka Vision Programby ZEISS, this partnershipwill aim to provide affordable eye-care services to 100,000 individuals over the next 3 years.

With the opening of the new Global Capability Center, ZEISS India is making a bold bet on the burgeoning Indian market, positioning itself to capitalize on the country’s vast potential for technological innovation and development. This strategic investment not only underscores ZEISS’s confidence in India as a key player in the global landscape but also highlights its intent to expand its footprint in the region. By fostering local talent and nurturing collaborations with the government and startups, ZEISS India is well-equipped to accelerate growth and deliver cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers and communities across the nation. For more information on ZEISS, please visit www.zeiss.com

The 5K Sprint Obstacle Race offered participants the ultimate obstacle course experience, featuring 20 challenging obstacles across a rugged off-road trail course packed with water, mud and pure adrenaline. Touted as the perfect challenge for both new Spartans and seasoned fitness enthusiasts, the race saw participation in three categories – the Competitive wave, Corporate wave and Open category wave —all eager to conquer the course and prove their mettle. In the Male Competitive category, Sanjay Negi from Agra came first with an impressive time of 25:25. Yadhu Krishnan M from Bengaluru and Ebi Victor from Chennai took second and third places, completing the race in 29:49 and 31:09, respectively.

Ai Ping Yeo from Singapore clinched the top spot in the Female Competitive category, completing the race in 37:24. Ekta Rawat from Delhi and Misti Mokros from the USA finished in second and third places with impressive times of 38:36 and 39:26, respectively. The athletes showcased remarkable strength, agility, and endurance, dominating each obstacle with precision to secure their victories.

Winners in the Competitive category received TVS Apache RTR 200 bikes for both men’s and women’s categories, along with cash prizes for the top three finishers. The launch of TVS Apache Spartan has come at a pivotal moment, coinciding with obstacle racing recent approval for inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Commenting on the inaugural race, Melroy D’Souza, CEO of PMG Sports, which is introducing TVS Apache Spartan Race to India, said, said, “The response to the maiden race has been nothing short
of thrilling. The fitness community in Bengaluru is very active and we saw participation in huge numbers. Obstacle race offers sports and fitness enthusiasts a unique way to challenge their physical abilities. The combined synergies of participating groups – ace athletes, fitness enthusiasts, corporates and general people elevated the overall experience. I congratulate all the winners for putting up a great show. We are honoured to introduce Spartan Race to India.”

Commenting on the event, Vimal Sumbly, Head Premium Business, TVS Motor Company said, “Witnessing India’s first ever Spartan Race in Bengaluru has been enthralling. As the title sponsors, we are glad to have brought this novel high-energy, global phenomenon to India. Built on a rich Racing legacy, TVS Apache Series is one of the fastest growing premium motorcycle brands globally, known for erformance and innovation. This obstacle course racing embodies the spirit of adventure and adrenaline – values that resonate with TVS Apache Series. We are proud to be at the forefront of this exciting journey. We applaud all participants and extend a special congratulations to the category winners for their incredible drive and determination!

Harshveer Singh Saluja, Regional Director – APAC, Spartan Race Inc. added, “We’re excited to bring Spartan Race to India, offering people across the country an inspiring platform to challenge themselves and achieve what they once thought impossible. Spartan races will be a major force in India’s growing fitness movement, building a strong sense of community and camaraderie along the way.”

The remaining TVS Apache Spartan Races are set to take place in Pune in December 2024 and Noida in March 2025.

Much like the spirit of the modern woman, the Taneira Saree Run reinforces the saree as a canvas of endless possibilities, holding together its traditional roots while adapting to the myriad novelties of modern living. A meaningful celebration of this versatility of the six yards and its wearers, it not only highlights the saree as a medium of self-expression that transcends boundaries and resonates across diverse settings but also brings forth the relevance of the saree in the contemporary context. The event serves as a powerful statement, integrating empowerment with well-being, encouraging women from all walks of life to break the mould, shatter inhibitions and express themselves confidently.

Building on successful runs in cities like Pune, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, the event fosters a deeper connection among women catapulting the saree from a mere garment to a common thread upon which women weave together stories of resilience, individuality and accomplishment, honouring the diverse narratives that shapes their lives.

Speaking at the event, Mr. C.K Venkataraman, MD, Titan Company limited, said “Titan’s legacy is built on the fusion of innovation and tradition, and the Taneira Saree Run beautifully embodies this spirit. Much like our timepieces that symbolize precision and timelessness, the Saree Run celebrates the enduring beauty, power and relevance of the saree for centuries—a symbol of tradition that continues to empower women today. The event is a reflection of our commitment to honoring womanhood in all its diversity, and creating opportunities for women to come together, celebrate their strength and embrace the values of tradition in a modern world all while promoting women’s health, inclusivity and empowerment.”

Speaking at the event, Mr. Ambuj Narayan, CEO of Taneira, said, “The Taneira Saree Run embodies our commitment to celebrating the strength and spirit of womanhood. By reimagining the saree as a vibrant symbol of liberation and individuality, we invite women to embrace their heritage while confidently expressing who they are. Our partnership with JJ Active amplifies this vision, demonstrating how the saree seamlessly integrates into a dynamic lifestyle. The event fosters a vivacious community, showcasing the transformative potential that arise when we come together in solidarity while exploring new horizons.”

Coach Pramod from JJ Active shared, “The Saree Run started in Bengaluru eight years ago. With Taneira’s support over the past two years, it has grown from a local run to a national movement. Today, the Taneira Saree Run is proof that women can celebrate their unique styles while focusing on health, empowerment, and well-being.”

Climaveneta Climate Technologies (CCT), India’s fastest growing chiller producer and market leader in Co-location DC Chillers in India, will also be a major export hub in cooling systems for nearby regions. The state-of-the-art plant will manufacture central air-conditioning equipment such as Screw Chillers, Magnetic Levitation Technology Chillers, Scroll Chillers, Conventional Centrifugal Chillers, High Precision AC units, Heat Pumps, for HVAC application. CCT Serves major clients all over India, that include leading global DC Companies, Multinational Hotel Chains, Health Care establishments, Malls, Multiplexes, Commercial Projects of Leading Developers, Corporate Groups and Industrial applications.

Mr. Anil Dev, Chief Executive Officer, Climaveneta Climate Technologies, India, said: “India’s rapid digitalization, driven by government initiatives, e-commerce, cloud adoption, and AI, calls for a strong data center infrastructure, to support this growth. Reliable cooling systems are essential to prevent equipment failures in data centers. CCT’sadvanced, sustainable, and efficient air conditioning solutions ensure ideal environments across data centers, commercial buildings, healthcare, manufacturing, and more, supported by intelligent plant automation and optimisation solutions to provide the most reliable and efficient environment &infrastructure for such projects.

Climaveneta India is building on the high demand and growth story of the data center markets in India. This market is concentrated largely in West India (Navi Mumbai), followed by Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune and Kolkata. The company is also a leader in providing other highly efficient HVAC products and solutions and has to their credit several innovations introduced by them in India.

“Bengaluru, with its skilled talent and established industries, is ideal for our facility, which will create approximately 500 jobs. It will also manufacture a wide range of central air conditioning equipment for both domestic and international markets. We will always strive to bring efficient technologies to the Indian market and pursue ethical growth by giving highest priority to sustainability and protection of the environment,” added Anil Dev.

HVAC equipment accounts for a significant portion of a facility or a building’s energy consumption and operating costs. HVAC monitoring &diagnostic systems can help to lower these expenditures by continuously monitoring the environmental conditions, health and operating efficiency of the plant, providing automatic alerts in case of deficiency in performance. They also help to minimise breakdowns.

Mr. Masafumi Ando, Chief Executive Officer, Mitsubishi Electric Hydronic and IT Cooling S.p.A, said: “The group is targeting 2050 for achieving complete carbon neutrality and Climaveneta India is playing a major role in this plan. Climaveneta India’s products are vital now given the buoyant Indian economy and also the sudden and rapid change in industrial dynamics. Europe and many developed countries are phasing out refrigerants that have global warming implications and hence alternative technologies are the need of the hour. The company’s products ensure zero percent ozone depletion and the current high demand for environment friendly and energy efficient cooling systems reflects this change.”

“Mitsubishi Electric plans to enhance its investment over the next few years and expand operations in and around Bangalore as well as other locations. The vast availability of skilled manpower and the presence of manufacturing and technology companies in the city and a favourable government policy is the biggest pull factor for Mitsubishi Electric,” said Atsushi Takase, Managing Director,Mitsubishi Electric India.

Apart from Climaveneta India, the Mitsubishi Electric Group already has two more of its companies in Karnataka region – Mitsubishi Elevator India Private Limited (IMEC) and Toshiba Mitsubishi-Electric Industrial Systems Corporation (TMEIC), a 50-50 joint venture between Japan’s Toshiba Corporation and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, which manufacture Elevators, Escalators & UPS Solutions, respectively.

THE MANY ACHIEVEMENTS OF CLIMAVENETA CLIMATE TECHNOLOGIES:
• Fastest Growing Chiller Manufacturer in India
• A Market Leader in Co-location DC Chillers
• First to manufacture in India & supply AHRI Certified Data Center Application Specific Chillers (Air Conditioning Heating Refrigeration Institute, the Global Performance certifying Agency head quartered in USA)
• First to start manufacturing & supply of Lowest Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerant R1234ze based Chillers in India for DC application
• First to launch & supply Made in India, State of the Art Magnetic Levitation Air Cooled Chillers
• First to start manufacturing in India “Plug & Play” Chillers with inbuilt Pumps with integrated variable flow control management

This initiative is part of AJAX’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts to address the infrastructural challenges faced by the existing OPD, which currently manages over 800 cases daily.  Also, AJAX Charitable Trust recognized the Non-availability of a Blood Bank facility in the region. To date, AJAX has invested approximately two crore INR in this project, alongside further investments for setting up a Blood Bank and Dialysis Centre.

The new OPD, located on the ground floor, is capable of handling 600 cases per day, while the Dialysis Centre will include 10 beds. Additionally, Blood bank which will be on the first floor will cater to the immediate need of blood for patient use.

These enhancements are designed to alleviate pressure on the current healthcare infrastructure and ensure timely medical care for patients. This initiative aligns government objectives to strengthen rural healthcare through sustainable and impactful public-private partnerships, anticipating the growing need for robust healthcare services in the region.

Dinesh Gundu Rao, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, lauded the initiative, stating:* “Strengthening rural healthcare infrastructure is a top priority for the government, and it is heartening to see companies like AJAX Engineering actively contributing to this mission. This project will go a long way in improving medical access for rural communities.”

K.H. Muniappa, Minister of Food & Civil Supplies Consumer Affairs, commented on the partnership:* “This initiative demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in driving social change. AJAX Engineering Charitable Trust’s contribution will help address the healthcare challenges in Doddaballapura and provide much-needed services to the community.”

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including elected representatives of Doddaballapura Taluk, municipal councillors, and members of the hospital’s health protection committee.

Speaking on behalf of AJAX Engineering, K Vijay Chairman, “The development of these critical healthcare facilities in Doddaballapura is an essential response to the increasing demand for medical services in the region. By supporting the construction of the OPD, Blood Bank, and Dialysis Centre, we aim to ensure timely access to life-saving care for residents. This project reflects AJAX’s commitment to addressing specific community needs through meaningful, targeted initiatives that create lasting value.”

The expansion project at the hospital is aimed at responding to the increased patient demand observed in recent years, which has placed significant strain on the hospital’s infrastructure. The new facilities will offer enhanced treatment options, particularly for those requiring outpatient care and dialysis services, which are crucial for managing chronic health conditions in the community.

In 2016, Azim Premji University launched the annual “Social Enterprise Idea Challenge” that brings students from across India to explore social entrepreneurship and share innovative social change ideas in a rigorous and competitive environment. The event also acts as a networking platform for young minds to meet each other, exchange thoughts and showcase their talent and skills to some of the early-stage mentors and funders.

Fifteen teams were shortlisted from over 150 entries from universities and colleges across the country for the final round. The submissions were broadly in the domains of education, livelihood, health, sustainability and governance. First prize: Vyasa M Nayak, Lisha D S, Joshua Quinthino Albuquerque from St Joseph Engineering College Contact Numbers: 8618497080/ 8951314688.

Summary of the idea: HiveLink is a social enterprise model using IoT sensors, wireless communication, cloud computing, machine learning, and geospatial tech to empower beekeepers. Implemented at beehive sites in Bantwal, Karnataka, HiveLink provides real-time monitoring, early disease detection, and theft prevention. By streamlining hive management, it supports rural beekeepers and ensures the sustainability of India’s beekeeping industry.

Second prize: Team Urooj – Students from Azim Premji University, Bangalore, Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Sirmaur, and Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi Contact Number: Abbad Kamal – 9582043180 ummary of the Idea: Urooj is aimed at addressing social inequalities and structural discrimination through their fellowship program. They are focused at bridging the gap between education and employability by teaching computer skills and enhancing learning ability.

Third Prize: Team Minds4Minds — Students from IIM, Udaipur, Mahindra United World College (UWC India), and Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Contact number: Sofiya Sisolekar – 9545284838 Summary of the idea: Minds4Minds is dedicated to empowering children and teens (6-18) by fostering emotional resilience and mental well-being through fun, engaging clubs in schools and communities. By blending mental health education with immersive activities, they promote balanced digital use, emotional growth, and strong community bonds.

Nazrul Haque, Mentor for the Social Enterprise Cell at Azim Premji University, noted: “It was gratifying to see the understanding and appreciation of social issues among the participants and their determination to find solutions. The majority of past winners are working towards bringing social change.”