Human Mobile Devices, HMD, announces the launch of one-of-a kind service initiatives at Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, demonstrating its commitment to enriching the pilgrim experience through innovative technology and support services. The company has established a comprehensive presence in Prayagraj with multiple programs designed to assist visitors during their spiritual journey

Key Highlights of HMD Initiatives at Maha Kumbh:

• Comprehensive Mobile Care: The HMD Care Camp offers diagnosis and repairs for HMD Smartphones, Feature Phones, and Nokia Feature Phones. The brand is also providing a replacement unit to the customers if their feature phones are under the 1-year replacement guarantee. As an additional service, the company is also running a unique loaner phone program providing temporary devices during the repair period
• local travel information feature: In collaboration with Radioline, HMD provides real-time access to essential Maha Kumbh information, including important dates with significance, local travel information feature, and extensive guides for pilgrims
• Tourism Partnership: In collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and the Uttar Pradesh government, HMD advocates the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ campaign, promoting domestic tourism through digital engagement and on-ground activities at the premises of the Maha Kumbh Mela
• Regional Integration: Working closely with the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department, HMD has established branded touchpoints across Prayagraj, creating a network of support centers in retail stores and key locations throughout the procession grounds.

Along with these support initiatives, the company has also planned a 360-degree campaign spread across OOH, social media and digital as an extension of HMD’s Khoob Chalega Campaign of HMD 105 and HMD 110. The campaign resonates with the brand ethos of providing longer battery life, bigger screen and inventive UPI application, enabling secure financial transactions even without a smartphone.

Commenting on the new initiative, Ravi Kunwar, CEO & VP, India & APAC, HMD, said: “The Maha Kumbh Mela is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey, and at HMD, we take pride in enhancing this profound experience through our strong regional presence and groundbreaking feature phone innovations. By collaborating with the UP Government under the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ campaign, we’re not only celebrating India’s cultural heritage but also empowering pilgrims with reliable connectivity, disruptive technology like UPI application, and dedicated support services to ensure their journey is as seamless and fulfilling as possible”

The initiatives align with HMD’s mission to provide technology solutions that serve real human needs while supporting cultural and spiritual experiences.

About HMD

We are HMD, Human Mobile Devices. At HMD, we start by tuning into what people really want. Our consumers are passionate about the planet, often feel swamped by digital overload, and are keeping a close eye on their budget. That’s why we are thrilled to be Europe’s largest smartphone maker, championing repair-at-home phones, and a go-to for much needed digital time out.

Kisan Diwas honors the hard work and dedication of India’s farmers, who not only nourish the nation but also drive the growth of its rural economy. Here are stories of five farmers whose remarkable journeys highlight the transformation of traditional farming into entrepreneurial success. Their stories reflect the power of resilience, innovation, and community support, showcasing how empowering farmers with the right tools and knowledge is helping pave the way for a Viksit Bharat.

Supported by Project Unnati, an initiative by Anandana, they gain access to the tools and knowledge needed to boost productivity, adopt modern agricultural techniques, and contribute to a more sustainable rural economy.

Here are five extraordinary journeys that demonstrate the enduring power of these efforts:

1. Sowing Seeds of Change: Chenna Reddy’s Journey to Sustainable Farming: Once a plumber in Bangalore, Chenna Reddy returned to his ancestral land in Jangalapalli village, Andhra Pradesh, where water scarcity had left the soil barren. Through Project Unnati Mango by Anandana – The Coca-Cola India Foundation, he learned modern techniques like Ultra High-Density Planting (UHDP) and drip irrigation.

These advanced methods not only enhanced fruit yield and quality but also reduced the need for fertilizers and pesticides. With training in climate-smart farming and crop management, Chenna transformed his unproductive land into a thriving mango orchard, proving that sustainable practices can rejuvenate even the most arid lands and reconnect farmers with their heritage.

2. Tulabati Badanayak: Blending Coffee Farming with Eco-Tourism: From Coffee Farmer to Eco-Tourism in the tribal village of Koraput, Odisha, Tulabati Badanayak has transformed her life and community through resilience and innovation. Once struggling to sustain her family as a coffee farmer, she adopted sustainable practices under Project Unnati Coffee, such as selective harvesting and sun-drying. These techniques improved her coffee quality, helping her secure better prices.

Beyond farming, Tulabati initiated an eco-tourism venture, leveraging the village’s natural beauty to create additional income streams. Today, she not only supports her family but also empowers other women by sharing her knowledge and fostering collective growth.

3. Engineering a Green Revolution: J.C. Punetha’s Orchard Success

Former textile engineer J.C. Punetha, at the age of 70, transitioned from a thriving industrial career in Ahmedabad to apple farming in Champawat, Uttarakhand. His decision was fueled by a desire to reconnect with nature and make productive use of his land.

Under the guidance of Project Unnati Apple, he planted saplings and implemented drip irrigation systems. Despite initial challenges and managing the farm remotely from his family in Ahmedabad, Punetha achieved remarkable success. His focus now is on expanding his orchard and helping fellow farmers adopt sustainable practices, proving that innovation and persistence can yield remarkable results.

4. Geetha Maheshwari: Empowering Her Community Beyond Farming
   Geetha Maheshwari, a dedicated farmer from Theni, Tamil Nadu, has been cultivating the land for over a decade. A few years ago, she enrolled in a training program under Project Unnati Grapes and CENDECT KVK, where she learned advanced farming techniques, including pest management and the use of insecticides. This knowledge helped her double her income, significantly expanding her harvest.

Beyond farming, Geetha used the benefits of a subsidy scheme from KVK CENDECT to open a wedding hall, PSP Mahal, in her village, Chinnaovalapuram. The hall provides affordable services to underprivileged families, easing the financial burden of wedding arrangements. Geetha’s journey reflects not only her personal growth but also her commitment to empowering her community.

5. From Civil Service to Apple Farming: Khilanand Joshi’s Second Act

At 75, after retiring from government service, Khilanand Joshi returned to his village in Champawat, Uttarakhand, with a vision to revitalize his family’s farming legacy. Despite having no prior experience in sustainable agriculture, he embraced apple farming under Project Unnati Apple.

With the help of ultra-high-density plantation techniques and drip irrigation, Khilanand transformed his farm into a diverse agricultural hub. His efforts have not only yielded impressive apple harvests but also inspired his community to adopt modern farming methods. Employing ten workers, he has created a local ecosystem of employment and knowledge-sharing. Khilanand’s late but impactful start highlights that determination, and innovation can drive agricultural success at any stage of life.

The Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Bengaluru, in collaboration with Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal, Dr. TMA Pai Endowment Chair, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) which is sponsored by Schneider Electric, successfully organized HACKNOVA 2024, a 48-hour Cybersecurity Capture the Flag (CTF) Challenge. Held from December 16-18, 2024, at the MIT Bengaluru Campus, the event, powered by the Institution’s Innovation Council (MAHE) and hosted by the MITB ACM Student Chapter, brought together more than 40 teams from across India to compete in a landmark initiative promoting innovation in cybersecurity.

 The event began with a welcome address by Dr. Dayananda P, Professor and Head of the Department of IT, followed by the lighting of the lamp. Dr. Manohara Pai M M, Senior Professor from MIT Manipal, introduced the significance of HACKNOVA 2024.

Dr. Shreyas J, Convenor of HACKNOVA 2024 and Assistant Professor, Department of IT, MIT Bengaluru, introduced the Chief Guest, Brahmanand Basavachari, R&D Head – Digital Factory Automation Control, Schneider Electric. In his address, the Chief Guest emphasized the role of competitive platforms like HACKNOVA in fostering innovation and developing real-world problem-solving skills.

The ceremony also featured a Presidential Address by Dr. Iven Jose, Director, MIT Bengaluru, and special addresses by Guests of Honour Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu P (Deputy Registrar, MAHE Bengaluru) and Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan (Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru); Dr. Manohara Pai MM, Senior Professor and Dr. TMA Pai Endowment Chair, MIT Manipal.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Gururaj H L, Co-Convenor of HACKNOVA 2024, acknowledging the efforts of the organizing team and participants.

HACKNOVA 2024 serves as a dynamic platform for participants to showcase their cybersecurity skills, tackle real-world challenges, and promote collaboration and innovation in the field of technology.

HACKNOVA 2024 featured 48-hour CTF Challenge that tested participants’ expertise in cryptography, reverse engineering, and penetration testing, and a 24-hour Mini Hackathon that encouraged students to devise creative solutions to contemporary technological challenges. Both events drew significant attention and competition, with participants benefiting from hands-on experiences and expert mentorship.

The CTF Challenge culminated in three winning teams:

• First Place: Team comprising Sumedh Kashyap, Debashish Tripathy, and Archit Chadalawada
• Second Place: Team led by Dev Kothari, alongside Shashank Pandey and Vishal Bharat
• Third Place: Team featuring Ritu Raj and Aastha Sinha

The total prize pool of ₹1 Lakh was distributed among the top-performing teams, recognizing their outstanding problem-solving skills and innovative solutions. The judging panel, comprising industry experts from Schneider Electric—Mr. Manoj Kumar (Project Manager), Mr. Ravikant Kulkarni (Senior Pen Test Engineer), and Mr. Mohan Singh (Security Architect)—played a vital role in evaluating the participants’ efforts and providing valuable insights.

Reflecting on the event, Dr. Iven Jose, Director of MIT Bengaluru, remarked, “HACKNOVA 2024 is a testament to our institution’s dedication to fostering innovation and advancing education in emerging fields. This platform not only empowers students but also strengthens our collaboration with industry leaders like Schneider Electric.” He further added, “We are proud to witness such exceptional talent and enthusiasm, which reinforces our commitment to nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity experts.”

The seamless execution of HACKNOVA 2024 was made possible through the dedicated efforts of faculty convenors Dr. Gururaj HL, Dr. Shreyas J, and Dr. Sumanth V, along with the MITB ACM Student Chapter and the support of the Department of Information Technology, MIT Bengaluru. The Dr. TMA Pai Endowment Chair for Intelligent Technologies further enriched the event with its backing.

Participants lauded the event for its enriching challenges, exceptional organization, and networking opportunities. The provision of food, accommodation, and midnight snacks contributed to a comfortable and engaging experience, ensuring high levels of participation and enthusiasm. HACKNOVA 2024 reaffirmed MIT Bengaluru’s leadership in advancing education and innovation in cybersecurity.

The Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) marked a historic occasion today by hosting the Golden Reunion of the 1965-70 and 1969-74 alumni batches, alongside a grand celebration of the institute’s transformation from Manipal Engineering College (MEC) to MIT. This milestone event not only rekindled cherished memories but also honored the remarkable journey of this prestigious institution, which has been a cornerstone of engineering excellence for decades.

 The event, held at MIT, brought together alumni, faculty, and dignitaries to celebrate the rich legacy of the institute and its contributions to the field of technology and innovation. The occasion was graced by Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, as the Chief Guest, along with other esteemed faculty and alumni members including, Dr Kanthi M, Associate Director Alumni Relations, MIT Manipal; and Cdr (Dr) Anil Rana, Director, MIT Manipal among others.  Dr. Sriram K. V., Associate Director, Industry Liaison Placement and Practice school welcomed the dignitaries.

 The celebration at the Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) began with a heartfelt tribute to the visionary founder, Dr. Tonse Madhava Anantha Pai, through floral offerings and a moment of silence in remembrance of departed souls. The event featured a captivating cultural performance of the traditional Yakshagana dance, showcasing the rich heritage of Karnataka. Dr. Kanthi M., Associate Director of Alumni Relations, presented an engaging overview of MIT’s remarkable journey and achievements, followed by a nostalgic video chronicling the institute’s illustrious history.

Distinguished alumni, Shri. Ranga Pai Tonse and Shri. Dayashankar Shetty were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to society. Alumni shared heartfelt reminiscences, recounting cherished memories and enduring friendships from their golden days at MIT. Senior faculty and leadership, including Dr. Somashekara Bhat, Joint Director of MIT, MAHE addressed the gathering, emphasizing the institution’s unwavering focus on academic excellence, innovation, and its enduring legacy of shaping future leaders.

 Speaking on the occasion, Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education applauded the transformative journey of MIT and its dedication to fostering excellence. “MIT’s evolution from MEC to a globally recognized institute is a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation, education, and the holistic development of its students. This celebration reflects the spirit of camaraderie and achievement that defines MIT.

This celebration is not just a reunion but a reflection of the enduring bond between the institution and its alumni, whose achievements have brought pride to the MIT community. As we honor our past and look towards the future, MIT continues to be a beacon of inspiration, shaping leaders and driving progress on a global scale”, he said.

“MIT’s success is built on a foundation of innovation, excellence, and visionary leadership. The institute has achieved remarkable milestones, fostering a culture of academic brilliance and groundbreaking research” said, Cdr. Dr. Anil Rana, Director, MIT, MAHE, Manipal.

 The event also served as a platform to strengthen ties between alumni and the institute, showcasing how the MIT community continues to drive innovation and progress.

Dr. Krishna Prakash, Assistant Director, Alumni, Public & International Relations delivered the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to all who made this day a success.

Hyatt India today announced the launch of it`s official Instagram handle @hyatt.india.swa in collaboration with Bollywood star Vaani Kapoor. This new platform invites followers to experience the World of Hyatt India, showcasing its distinctive blend of warm hospitality, exceptional service, and authentic, tailored experiences that celebrate the individuality of each guest.

 Through this collaboration, Hyatt India Instagram page will feature a series of captivating brand films and exclusive content, highlighting Hyatt’s unwavering commitment to care and exceptional hospitality. The #HyattCelebratesYou truly epitomises how Hyatt makes every stay memorable.

 Starring Vaani Kapoor, the launch features a teaser and 6 episodes that reflect the brand’s dedication to celebrating its guests and crafting unforgettable experiences. The episodes will take consumers on a journey inside Hyatt where one can see `The Art of Anticipation`, `Going Above and Beyond`, `Care straight from the Heart`, `Making every moment Delightful` and more that really shows how deeply Hyatt cares for all its guests.

 “We are excited to launch our official Hyatt India Instagram page, elevating the luxury hospitality experience on social media. This platform will showcase more than just our stunning properties and exceptional service – it reflects our purpose-driven approach to hospitality, where we focus on caring for people so they can be their best. #HyattCelebratesYou is rooted in the principle of really knowing our guests, anticipating their needs and crafting bespoke experiences that truly resonate with our guests. We’re delighted to have Vaani Kapoor join us in bringing her elegance and warmth to this journey.” said Deepa Krishnan, Head of Marketing, India and Southwest Asia, Hyatt. 

 ““I’m thrilled to collaborate with Hyatt India on this exciting journey. Their commitment to personalised care and celebrating each guest’s uniqueness resonates with me. I look forward to sharing my personal experiences and favorite moments from my time with Hyatt, offering my followers an exclusive look into the World of Hyatt.”  said Vaani Kapoor.

“Incredibly proud to partner Hyatt India for the launch of their corporate Instagram page. Leveraging our deep experience as a leading agency for the hospitality sector, our talented team at @Lintas Live conceptualised an engaging launch campaign – ‘Hyatt Celebrates You’. At the center of the concept is the ethos of making every customer experience special and truly brings to life the virtues of warmth and care that Hyatt stands for.” said Ameer Ismail, President Lintas Live -div. of Mullen Lowe Lintas Group.

 To experience the ultimate in luxury hospitality and get a glimpse into Hyatt in India, follow @hyatt.india.swa on Instagram. Join the conversation using #HyattCelebratesYou and discover the authentic experiences at Hyatt India’s properties. We look forward to welcoming and celebrating you at Hyatt.

It sounds like a fun trip for the kindergarten kids to the HAL Aeronautical Museum! Such field trips can be very educational, as children get to learn about aviation, aircraft, and the history of aeronautics in a hands-on environment.

The museum is located in Bangalore, India, and showcases a range of aircraft, helicopters, engines, and other aviation-related displays, providing a wonderful learning experience for kids.

The school kids went on an exciting field trip to the HAL Museum on December 17th, 2024! The HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) Museum in Bangalore is a fascinating destination, especially for students interested in aviation, aerospace technology, and history.

During their visit, the children have explored:

Various Aircraft Displays: The museum features retired aircraft, including fighter jets, helicopters, and transport aircraft. Kids might have enjoyed seeing the different shapes and sizes of the planes up close.

Cockpits and Simulators: Some museums have interactive sections where kids can sit in the cockpit of a real or replica aircraft and imagine themselves as pilots.

Learning About Aviation: Kids can learn about the importance of flight, the history of airplanes, and the role of the Indian aerospace industry. The museum might have special sections designed for children to make the learning process fun and engaging.

Picnic Time: After the educational portion, they could have enjoyed some time outdoors in the museum’s picnic area, where they could have relaxed, played, and shared snacks with their friends.

This type of trip allows young children to explore their curiosity and develop an interest in science and technology, especially in the field of aviation. If you need help planning such trips or looking for ways to make them more fun, feel free to ask!

Field trip provide children with experiential learning opportunities by connecting classroom learning to the real world.

Absolutely! Field trips are an incredible way to provide children with experiential learning opportunities, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge in the classroom and real-world experiences.

Here’s how they contribute to a child’s education and development:

1. Active Learning
Field trips engage children in hands-on experiences, allowing them to actively participate rather than passively receiving information. This helps in better retention of knowledge because the children can see, touch, and experience the subject matter firsthand.
For example, during a visit to the HAL Aeronautical Museum, students can explore aircraft and aviation technology up close, which connects directly to lessons about science, flight, and engineering.

2. Real-World Connections
Classroom lessons can sometimes feel abstract, but when children are able to see how concepts apply in the real world, they develop a deeper understanding.
Science concepts like aerodynamics or the engineering behind aircraft become clearer when students can observe actual aircraft, engines, and even flight simulations in a museum setting.

3. Building Curiosity and Critical Thinking
Field trips spark curiosity and allow children to ask questions and think critically about what they observe. Instead of just being taught facts, they can observe, inquire, and discuss what they see.
At a museum, for instance, students might ask questions about how planes fly, how helicopters work, or what different types of aircraft are used for.

4. Cultural and Social Development
Field trips often provide opportunities for children to interact with their peers and adults outside of the classroom, helping them develop social skills.
They also allow students to experience different environments, which can increase their cultural awareness and sense of community, especially if the trip takes them to new places or involves historical or scientific sites.

5. Enhancing Teamwork and Collaboration
When students go on field trips in groups, they often need to work together and share experiences. This helps foster teamwork, as they might need to follow instructions together, share resources, or solve problems in a group setting.
For example, on a picnic after the museum visit, they might share their observations, play together, or help each other understand what they’ve learned.

6. Boosting Engagement and Motivation
Field trips can make learning more exciting and engage students who may not respond as well to traditional classroom activities. The excitement of a real-world experience can inspire them to learn more about subjects that they encounter on the trip.
Seeing the real-world applications of what they learn can motivate students to take a deeper interest in subjects like science, history, or technology.

7. Inspiration for Future Learning
A field trip like the one to an aeronautical museum may inspire children to learn more about aviation or engineering. They may develop a new interest or passion that could influence their future education or career paths.

8. Physical and Emotional Development
Field trips often involve walking, exploring, and interacting with new environments, all of which contribute to physical development.
Being out of the usual school setting can also provide emotional growth, as children learn to manage excitement, navigate unfamiliar environments, and follow rules in different settings.

9. Fun and Enjoyable Experience
Finally, field trips are just fun! They give students a break from their usual routine and provide a memorable, enjoyable experience that can enhance their connection to the subject matter. Happy memories from a field trip often stay with children long after the visit.

By providing opportunities for children to explore, engage, and learn in dynamic, real-world settings, field trips serve as a powerful educational tool that complements and enriches classroom learning. They promote curiosity, learning through experience, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Finally, We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Founder & Principal Arundhati Harish, and all the teachers and staff who worked tirelessly to make the recent field trip a great success. Your dedication, hard work, and careful planning ensured that the students had a fun, educational, and memorable experience.

We appreciate your commitment to the growth and development of our children, and we are truly grateful for the time and effort you invested in making this trip possible. Thank you for your continued support and for always going above and beyond for the students.

• AI Cameras, Smart Hybrid Light Camera, Multi Lens Synergy Cameras, Turbo HD 8.0 ColorVu, 4G Solar Camera, Thermal and AcuSense Cameras, Audio Sensing Products, eDVRs and eNVRs.
• 5 new products in the Non CCTV category that are  introduced  at IFSEC-24. These include, X-Ray Baggage tunnel size 100cm x 100cm, ISD-SC6040S-H4CVL: X-Ray Baggage tunnel size 60cm x 40cm, ISD-SMW1701S-C: Millimeter Wave FULL BODY SCANNER, DS-K1T8005 Battery Series and DS-K1T808 Battery Series (Access and Attendance Products).
• Interactive Display Panel & LED solutions including Triad LED, 3D LED, 75′ IDP and other variants.
• Hikvision Dash Cam and Advanced Driving Assistant System (ADAS) for automotive safety and security front.
• Newly-launched EZVIZ Smart Home Cameras such as HB8 4G, H9C 5 +5, H8C 4G, H7C dual 4+4, EB3, CB3, and Smart Lock (CS-LT70-R200).

EaseMyTrip.com and Yas Island, Abu Dhabi – the leading leisure and entertainment destination in the Middle East region are teaming up to deliver an unparalleled travel experience. This innovative campaign features 30 of India’s top content creators engaging in thrilling challenges across Yas Island’s award-winning theme parks. These creators explore the destination’s exceptional attractions, while creating compelling content and facing challenges to inspire Indian travelers to explore the destination as a memorable experience.

By combining EaseMyTrip’s expertise in travel with Yas Island’s premier offerings, this partnership presents exclusive packages designed to elevate the Yas Island adventure.  Designed to offer an unforgettable journey blending excitement with adventure, the campaign is set to redefine destination marketing!

The “Greatest Of All Trips”, a unique, out of the box IP that was brought to life with two of the most renowned brands!

The challenges undertaken by the creators will be presented in an engaging episodic series on the YouTube page of Yas Island, which will inherently build audience interest, excitement and engagement over time. Each episode will showcase the participants’ originality, skills, and experiences as they navigate through Yas Island’s thrilling attractions, one activity at a time. The series will end with crowning one ultimate winner who would showcase exceptional content creation abilities, creativity, talent, problem solving skills and would best capture the essence of Yas Island’s world-class offerings. 

Adding star power to the campaign is celebrity host Sonu Sood, an acclaimed actor known for his significant contributions to Indian cinema and charitable efforts. Truly matching the superhero identity, his participation adds considerable prestige and appeal, enhancing the campaign’s reach and impact among Indian audiences. 

The series invites viewers on an exhilarating adventure through Yas Island’s four world-class theme parks: Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld® Abu Dhabi, and CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi. Each episode features creators tackling thrilling challenges, offering an insider’s perspective on the parks’ most exciting rides. This immersive content provides potential visitors with a captivating preview of Yas Island’s diverse offerings, from adrenaline-pumping rides to luxurious experiences and nostalgic, family-friendly fun. The campaign also highlights Miral Destinations as a leading hub for IP-themed attractions, uniquely bringing together three iconic brands in one destination.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Rikant Pittie, Co-Founder, EaseMyTrip, said, “We are thrilled to join hands with Yas Island,. This partnership brings together EaseMyTrip’s expertise in travel bookings along with Yas Island’s entertaining attractions to deliver exceptional vacation opportunities for Indian travellers including families, couples, and adventure seekers. This campaign is designed to ignite imaginations, inspire wanderlust, and redefine travel, blending thrill with luxury in a way that’s truly extraordinary.”

Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations, commented, “Our partnership with EaseMyTrip marks a significant step in our mission to welcome more Indian visitors to Yas Island. We are confident that this collaboration will inspire and encourage families and adventure seekers to visit and create unforgettable memories and experiences that Yas Island is known for.

ServiceNow, the leading digital workflow company, has announced the appointment of Ganesh Lakshminarayanan as Managing Director (MD) and Group Vice President (GVP), ServiceNow India and SAARC business, effective 06 January 2025. This strategic appointment reinforces ServiceNow’s commitment to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets and a vital driver of digital transformation. 

Ganesh brings a wealth of experience, having served as the CEO of Airtel’s domestic B2B business. Before Airtel, he held the position of President and MD of Dell India, showcasing a distinguished career in leadership roles. 

Known for his inclusive and high-performance leadership style, Ganesh is passionate about fostering strong, engaged teams that deliver exceptional results. As MD and GVP, ServiceNow India and SAARC business, Ganesh will play a pivotal role in further solidifying ServiceNow’s position as a leader in digital transformation and innovation across the APAC region. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Ganesh to ServiceNow to lead our India business into its next phase of growth,” said Detlef Krause, President APAC, ServiceNow. “India remains a key priority for ServiceNow, and Ganesh’s expertise and leadership will further enhance our ability to deliver value to our customers in this dynamic market.” 

“India is a critical market for ServiceNow, and I’m excited to lead the team through its next chapter of growth, driving innovation and delivering transformative results for our customers,” said Ganesh.

Based out of Bengaluru, Ganesh will lead ServiceNow’s business teams in India and will commence his role starting 6 January 2025. 

India also serves as an important technical hub for ServiceNow with its India Technology and Business Centre (largest outside of the US), led by Sumeet Mathur, Senior Vice President & MD, ServiceNow India Technology & Business Centre, underpinning our platform innovation and accelerating global operations. India represents more than 20% of ServiceNow’s global workforce, with 1 in 3 engineers based out of the country. Remarkably, over 40% of the company’s global product engineering is driven from India, underscoring the nation’s pivotal role as an innovation and technology powerhouse. 

Happiest Health hosted the second edition of Get Set, Grow Summit 2024 with a special theme on ‘Digital Detox’ aimed at promoting gadget free moments for children in the age group of 5 to 12 years and drawing attention towards screen free family time to strengthen the bond. The event was packed with interactive workshops, expert talks, educational activities   fun filled activities all aimed at helping families learn about nutrition, physical health, and mental wellness in a collaborative and engaging setting.

 The Summit focused on ‘Digital Detox Edition’ which highlighted the importance of screen-free family time through interactive and fun sessions for children, providing practical tools to help families navigate the challenges of balancing technology use with quality, tech-free moments. 500 Participants discovered strategies for developing healthier habits, enhancing family bonds, and promoting overall well-being through series of engaging sessions tailored for kids.

A resounding success in engaging children with fun activities while championing screen-free family time

Unveiling the second edition Get Set Grow, Mr Anindya Chowdhury, CEO of Happiest Health – Knowledge and Diagnostics “This summit has been a wonderful initiative to remind families of the joy and importance of being present for each other without digital distractions. Events like this not only foster stronger family connections but also equip us with valuable tools to prioritize health and well-being in an increasingly digital age. I hope this inspires many more families to take small, meaningful steps towards a balanced lifestyle. In today’s fast-paced world, it is crucial to carve out moments of togetherness that strengthen bonds and enrich lives. This summit has highlighted how simple, mindful changes can make a profound difference in creating harmony within families, encouraging us all to rethink our daily choices and commitments.”

Panel Discussion on “Digital Detox: Challenges and Way Forward -Featuring doctors and other experts with insightful discussions on limiting screen time & promoting family bonding was conducted.

Dr Santosh Kumar, Senior Consultant and Lead – Paediatrician & Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru, said “ In the digital age, fostering strong parent-child communication is vital to counteract the effects of excessive screen time. Gadgets reduce children’s ability to read non-verbal cues, empathize, and engage in imaginative play—essential social and emotional development skills. Parents should model healthy behavior by setting aside devices and creating an environment rich in meaningful interactions. Activities like storytelling, arts, or family discussions build emotional resilience and motivation. Importantly, children imitate adults, so demonstrating balance and moderation is key. Effective communication and positive reinforcement can help children break screen dependency and focus on activities that nurture their well-being.”

 Dr Arvind Shenoi-Clinical Director- Neonatology and Paediatric, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bengaluru,”Today’s children are navigating three distinct worlds—the real, the dream, and the virtual. The cyber world, while offering opportunities, also disrupts critical areas of life by stealing time from real-world experiences and much-needed sleep. This imbalance leads to physical and emotional challenges, including sleep disturbances, obesity, and reduced parental authority. Parents must actively regulate screen time, ensuring children do not lose sight of essential real-world interactions. By fostering meaningful relationships and encouraging play outside the digital realm, parents can help their children grow into emotionally and physically healthier individuals in this tech-driven age.”

 Dr Sowmya R, Senior Consultant, Department of Paediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus & Neuro-ophthalmology at Sankara Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, “Prolonged screen exposure in children, especially under the age of three, poses serious risks to their eye health, including increased chances of developing myopia, accommodative issues, and eye strain. It’s critical to ensure a balanced approach by limiting screen time and encouraging activities that stimulate natural vision development, such as outdoor play. Early signs like squinting, headaches, or difficulty focusing should not be ignored. Parents must be vigilant about creating healthy screen habits and seeking timely medical advice to prevent long-term complications. Protecting your child’s eyes today will pave the way for a healthier, clearer vision tomorrow.”

 The discussion concluded with some tips and insights that was given to both parents & children on the harmful impact of screen time & how this can be limited

There were other interesting fun activities for the kids  like Zumba dance sessions, quiz competition to keep them engaged & thus connect them with their friends and family.

• Interactive Workshops: The parents learned about the importance of nutrition, fitness, and mental wellness through hands-on cooking classes, yoga sessions, and fun art projects.
• Family Activity Zones: The activities were tailored to offer fun and educational experiences designed for parents and kids to enjoy together, all aligned with the event’s theme of digital detox.
• Competitions and Challenges: Competitions and Challenges featured exciting games and activities that promoted teamwork, creativity, and healthy competition among families.

The Get Set, Grow Summit 2024 successfully championed the importance of a balanced approach to technology and family well-being. By offering an engaging platform of workshops, expert talks, and interactive activities, Happiest Health provided families with practical strategies to navigate the challenges of a tech-driven world and to lead the way in promoting healthier lifestyles and fostering meaningful connections, empowering families to embrace a more harmonious and fulfilling life.