 Rodolfo Mari – UnsplashA wildlife conservation and advocacy group is encouraging Americans this year to take a break from raking and just ‘leave the leaves.’ It’s part of a campaign to try to educate the public on the value of leaf litter to dozens of native wildlife, plant, and fungi species. Raking up these leaves removes valuable habitat and food for the biodiversity that persists on America’s lawns. “Songbirds, small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles all rely on the leaf layer in some way,” explains the National Wildlife Federation, organizers of the Leave the Leaves Pledge. “Many beloved insect species like butterflies, moths, and fireflies use this layer as a safe spot to wait out the winter, and others forage in and even eat the decomposing leaves.” Established by the Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist and illustrator of the first Federal Duck Stamp, J.N. Darjeeling, the National Wildlife Federation offers some tips for how to manage dead leaves in the autumn that doesn’t involve removing them entirely from the micro-climate that is your yard. Because a thick leaf layer can damage your grass and make pathways slippery, rake the leaves to other parts of your yard where trees aren’t located. Adding a layer of leaves to your garden beds not only benefits overwintering wildlife, but it can also help suppress weeds and return important nutrients to the soil. Place excess leaves under native trees to provide prime habitat for wildlife. Caterpillars that live in native trees will be looking for a leaf layer to overwinter. Mammals and birds that enjoy the shelter of the tree can also forage in the leaf layer. If you still have leftover leaves and debris, you can pile them up in a corner of your garden and they will break down into an incredible compost for your garden that can be used in the coming seasons. Go beyond leaves by leaving the logs and stems, too. Many insects, like native bees, overwinter inside of hollow dried flower stems or in decaying logs and branches.Helping them doesn’t necessitate leaving your lawn a mess—instead make an ‘insect hotel’ by stacking fallen branches and logs into a natural structure, clearing your yard of debris while creating a more robust haven for invertebrate neighbors. To Help Your Local Wildlife, Stop Raking and Join the 'Leave The Leaves’ Campaign This Autumn |
To Help Your Local Wildlife, Stop Raking and Join the 'Leave The Leaves’ Campaign This Autumn (2025-09-30T12:01:00+05:30)
Govt notifies expansion of Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (2025-06-14T12:22:00+05:30)
 New Delhi, (IANS): The Centre's Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry has notified the expansion of the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) which increases the ceiling on guarantee cover per borrower from Rs 10 crore to Rs 20 crore. The extent of guarantee cover provided has also been increased to 85 per cent of the amount in default for loan amounts up to Rs 10 crore and 75 per cent of the amount in default for loan amounts exceeding Rs 10 crore, according to an official statement issued on Friday. Further, the Annual Guarantee Fee (AGF) for startups in 27 Champion Sectors has been reduced to 1 per cent p.a. from 2 per cent p.a. The Champion Sectors have been identified by the Government under 'Make in India' to provide a thrust to India's manufacturing and service capabilities. The reduction in AGF for Champion Sectors will make funding more attractive for the identified sectors and boost innovation in domestic manufacturing and self-reliance. In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for transforming India into an innovation-driven self-reliant economy, the notified expansions aim to address the financing needs of innovation-driven startups. As a result of the increased guarantee support and coverage, the number of financial institutions coming forward to provide credit support to startups will increase, thereby increasing overall fund flow for startups. The expanded scheme will further reduce the perceived risks associated with lending to startups in established financial institutions, enabling greater financial flow and runway for startups to undertake research and development (R&D), experimentation, and create cutting-edge innovation and technologies. Several operational reforms and other enabling measures identified through consultations with the startup ecosystem have also been included in the expanded CGSS to make the scheme attractive for lenders and startups seeking funding support. The expansions and modifications are expected to give thrust to the Scheme and enable a wider range of startups to benefit to propel the country towards becoming a 'Viksit Bharat'. Prime Minister Modi launched the Startup India initiative along with an Action Plan for Startups on January 16, 2016, to create a vibrant startup ecosystem in the country. In line with the Action Plan for startups, the Government approved and notified the 'Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)' on October 6, 2022, to provide guarantee up to a specified limit against credit instruments extended to startups by scheduled commercial banks, All India Financial Institutions (AIFI), Non-Banking Financial Companies and Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). The broad objective of CGSS is to finance eligible startups by enabling collateral-free debt funding to startups through avenues such as working capital, term loans, and venture debt.To further catalyse entrepreneurship by providing enhanced credit support to innovators and encouraging financial institutions in the ecosystem to provide early-stage debt funds to startups, the Union Budget 2025-26 proposed the enhancement of credit availability with guarantee cover for startups. Govt notifies expansion of Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
DPIIT ropes in jobs platform Apna in talent hunt to staff startups (2025-06-14T12:22:00+05:30)
 New Delhi, (IANS): The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has signed an MoU with jobs and professional networking platform Apna to hunt for talent to staff registered startups with highly skilled manpower and create new job opportunities for unemployed youth, according to an official statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on Wednesday. "The partnership brings a monetary value of Rs 2,000 per entity registered on the Bharat Startup Registry (Bhaskar) platform in hiring credits on Apna’s platform for each of the 7,00,000 entities. "This will be currently valued at Rs 140 crore. As the startup ecosystem gradually grows, the initiative's value will scale up, touching an estimated Rs 300 crore," the statement explained. The collaboration seeks to provide DPIIT-registered startups with credits worth Rs 2000 each on Apna’s platform. These credits will support better hiring by enabling job postings and unlocking access to tailored talent pools. With 700,000 registrations on Bhaskar, the initiative represents a value of upwards of Rs 140 crore. As the number of startups grows within the ecosystem, the value will escalate to Rs 300 crore, providing significant resources to support India’s entrepreneurship. The credits will enable startups to access Apna’s comprehensive hiring tools, promoting better job matching and efficiency. Enhanced access to talent will reduce time-to-market for new initiatives, supporting startups in scaling operations. Moreover, Apna’s platform will create pathways for skilled workers to engage with India’s burgeoning entrepreneurial ecosystem. The credits will empower startups to use Apna’s job posting and AI-driven matching features, tailored to their hiring needs. "DPIIT’s Startup India initiative will collaborate with Apna to curate job postings and align talent pools with industry requirements," the statement added. The total number of registered startups in India has surged to 1,57,066 from around 400 in 2016, when the Starup India initiative was launched, with investment in these new ventures jumping to $115 billion, from $8 billion in this nine-year period, according to DPIIT data. These startups have created over 1.6 million jobs across the country, demonstrating their role as significant employment generators. Besides, there are more than 73,000 startups with at least one-woman director that have been recognised under the Startup India initiative. "This represents nearly half of the 1,57,066 startups supported by the government, showcasing the crucial role women play in driving innovation and economic growth," according to an official statement. India has now emerged as one of the most vibrant startup ecosystems globally, earning its place as the third-largest startup hub with over 100+ unicorns which are worth at least a billion dollars. DPIIT ropes in jobs platform Apna in talent hunt to staff startups | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
Lovikali Swu, Kevilelhou Sokra crowned Mr & Miss Chümoukedima 2024 (2024-10-01T11:44:00+05:30)
 Lovikali Swu from North Town Hr Sec School and Kevilelhou Sokra from Norman Pfutsure College were crowned the Mr and Miss Chümoukedima 2024. Iiilo Zhimomi from Tetso College and Zubenthung Ngullie from Mount Mary Hr Sec School bagged 1st runners-up. The 2nd runners-up title went to Akokba and Kivikali H Chophy from St Joseph’s University. CHÜMOUKEDIMA, (MExN): Lovikali Swu from North Town Hr Sec School and Kevilelhou Sokra from Norman Pfutsure College were crowned the Mr and Miss Chümoukedima 2024. The event organized by Meraki Entertainment Nagaland at K4 Venue, the event was presented by ROYALOAK and powered by GIIT and Cryxtal Bajaj and in collaboration with IWSN Training Centre and Boditive on September 21. Iiilo Zhimomi from Tetso College and Zubenthung Ngullie from Mount Mary Hr Sec School bagged 1st runners-up. The 2nd runners-up title went to Akokba and Kivikali H Chophy from St Joseph’s University. Altogether, 29 contestants vied for the title of Mr and Miss Chümoukedima and went through three rounds— modern ethnic wear round, casual round and evening gown round. The hampers for all the winners were sponsored by Lisu Care Pure and Natural, TS Clothing, Wulu Akami, Advanced GIIT, Wisdoms Wear, TA Lifestyle, the bags. This year’s title was sponsored by ROYALOAK, IWSN Training Centre, Boditive and Ocean Hospitality. ROYALAOK also offered gift voucher worth Rs 15000 to both the winners. All the six winners received smart watch worth Rs 8000 from Advanced GIIT and free computer course and tailor. The winner of Mr and Miss Chümoukedima also received 100% scholarship from Flyway Institute for Airhostess. Achievers Academy sponsored 50% course for both the title winners. TA Lifestyle Store offered Rs 3000 gift voucher to both the winners. The three winners of Miss Chümoukedima also received new gown from Amini design. During the pageant, the evening gown wear was created by Shelli Chishi and casual designer wear by Benwang Fashion. BE YOU by Sanjeev Tamang groomed, mentored and choreographed the event. The event was hosted by Chibeni Merry and Imna Yaden as the guest artist. The show also had local artists namely Chümoukedima dance and fits studio, Gideon Kithan, Kunili Ayemi, Kito Swu, Aseno Metha and African Amakshiu.The pageant was judged by a panel consisting of Enyuh Phom, President Lemja Organization, Amini Design Proprietor, Esther T Ngullie, Grand Miss Northeast 2023, Imnasenla Rachael, Director Mr Nagaland International, Soyim Longkumer, Event Planner, White Aisle Dimapur and Educator and Shelli Chishi., Lovikali Swu, Kevilelhou Sokra crowned Mr & Miss Chümoukedima 2024 | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
AI tools threaten to upend ad industry (2024-09-25T12:52:00+05:30)
 Data-driven algorithms supercharged the advertising industry by enabling precisely targeted campaigns, but new AI tools may be about to shake the sector once again. Some brands are dipping their toes in the AI waters, like Coca-Cola, which has invited people to create AI works using "iconic creative assets from the Coca-Cola digital archives". Others are using it to create a social media buzz -- fashion firm Stradivarius recently pushed out AI images based on one of its collections. But the full force of the AI revolution may be felt most keenly in the engine room of the ad industry -- the agencies who conceive and design the campaigns. "We're only at the beginning," said Fernando Pascual, vice-president of design at Spanish company Seedtag. His firm specialises in "contextual" advertising, which they claim will enable digital ads to blend in with the website where they appear. So a car ad might show the vehicle driving through a glass and steel cityscape on a business-orientated website, but the same car might be seen cruising past peaceful suburban gardens on a family-friendly website. "The main element of advertising is still anchored in reality," he told AFP. "We're just helping our clients to be more relevant." Seedtag is far from the only ad agency promoting its AI chops. But photographers and models are among those left wondering about their future livelihoods. - 'Uproar' - French lingerie firm Undiz recently found itself at the centre of the debate. Billboards in brilliant blue with eerily beautiful models gliding underwater in the firm's swimwear have appeared across France in recent weeks. Only, there were no real people in these posters. The models were created by an ad agency using image generator Midjourney, with real images of the swimming costumes added later. "We wanted to achieve a slightly dreamlike, intriguing result," Undiz director Isolde Andouard told AFP. Andouard admitted that the campaign had caused "uproar" among models and photographers. Thomas Serer, a popular French content creator and photographer, wrote on Twitter that he was a fan of AI but in this case "using AI adds zero value" apart from allowing the firm to save money. Andouard was quick to deny the approach was simply about cutting costs, saying the AI campaign was rolled out alongside traditional photos. - 'Non-event' - The reaction to the Undiz campaign suggests the path to AI domination will be far from smooth. And they are not the only company to have received criticism. Jeans brand Levi's trumpeted a partnership with Dutch studio Lalaland.ia in March with the promise of using AI models to boost diversity on its online shop. After an outcry, the firm put out another statement saying its announcement "did not properly represent certain aspects of the programme" and promised to continue working with models and photographers. There are plenty who doubt that such upfront uses will ever really go industry-wide. Olivier Bomsel, an economist specialising in intellectual property and advertising, said the arrival of AI-manipulated images was a "non-event" and amounted to just a new kind of digital editing. And as AI tools get more widespread, he said, the people whose images provide the training data will be able to claim fees that will eventually "cost as much as using a model". And the arrival of AI behemoths Meta and Google into the space is sending heads spinning. Both firms announced in May a series of simplified AI tools that promise to allow anyone to design ad campaigns just using simple phrases as prompts. It remains to be seen whether this will give ad agencies a shiny new plaything -- or torpedo their business models entirely. AI tools threaten to upend ad industry |
India makes contribution of 1.16 million dollars to the UN for promotion of Hindi (2024-09-24T12:16:00+05:30)
 India has made a contribution of 1.16 million dollars to the United Nations for the promotion of Hindi. R. Ravindra, the charge d’affaires of India’s Permanent Mission, handed over the cheque to Ian Phillips, the director of the News and Media Division of the UN’s Department of Global Communications (DGC) yesterday for Hindi @ UN’ project to expand the use of Hindi in the world organisation. India partnered with the DGC since 2018 when the Hindi @ UN project was launched to enhance the public outreach of the United Nations in the Hindi language, and to spread greater awareness about global issues among millions of Hindi-speaking people around the world. The United Nations produces an audio Hindi news bulletin every week on matters relating to the world organisation. The global body also maintains X, Instagram and Facebook social media accounts in Hindi, in addition to a news website. There has been a push to add to the UN’s range of multilingualism, but the main constraint is finance, and that is why India is paying for the Hindi initiative. India makes contribution of 1.16 million dollars to the UN for promotion of Hindi |
Indian American women hotel-owners hold successful two-day conference (2024-09-23T12:38:00+05:30)
 Collage of scenes from the HerOwnership Conference held in Redondo Beach, California. PHOTO: Provided by AAHOA. Women hoteliers from across the US converged at the 2024 HerOwnership Conference mid-September, hosted by the Asian American Hotel Owners Association, AAHOA, in Redondo Beach, California. The two-day event “crafted by women for women in the hospitality industry” centered around the empowering themes of executive presence, hotel ownership, and mental health and wellness, a September 17, press release from AAHOA said. The conference was successful in terms of networking, taking leadership, and thriving in an industry where women’s voices were critical, the organization said. Some 300 people attended the event, which marked the third annual HerOwnership Conference for AAHOA. “The hospitality industry stands out because women comprise most of the workforce,” AAHOA Chairman Miraj S. Patel is quoted saying in the press release. “They are not only the backbone of our families but also our industry and association.” According to AAHOA, women make up about 40% of its membership today. And AAHOA owns more than 50 percent of the hospitality industry in the country. “As we celebrate our 35th anniversary and reflect on the work and growth, we see how women members have played a crucial role in our association’s development and success,” Miraj Patel added. Keynote speakers included Neeti Dewan, author, speaker, and CEO, who spoke on “Mindset Makeover: Personal and Business Growth Strategies of Top Women Hoteliers.” Raji Brar, co-founder of The Bakersfield Sikh Women’s Association and chief operating officer of Countryside, spoke on “Building Bridges: The Power of Women in Political Engagement.” The event featured breakout sessions covering each of this year’s conference’s pillars. There were also two pre-conference masterclasses: one by Kalibri Labs on commercial strategy and the second by Gauthier, Murphy & Houghtaling on insurance-purchasing essentials. “The energy and unity of women hoteliers from across the country was truly inspiring,” said Shetal Zina Patel, Women Hoteliers Director, Western Division. “HerOwnership is not just about breaking barriers, but about creating lasting change—ensuring that future generations of women in our industry are equipped to lead with confidence and vision.” Networking breaks, ownership conversations, and panel discussions also took place along with the La Dolce Vita Festa Reception. “The reception reminded attendees to embrace la dolce vita, or “the sweet life,” with the Redondo Beach sunset as the backdrop,” organizers said. The Sonesta Redondo Beach & Marina on-site team had carried out elaborate decor, service, and special touches. “Being surrounded by remarkable women in hospitality, all eager to learn and support each other, is truly empowering,” said Purnima Patel, Women Hoteliers Director, Eastern Division, adding, “The HerOwnership Conference is not just an event but a movement. We are creating spaces for women to thrive, grow, and own their success in an industry where their leadership redefines the future.”The date and location of the next HerOwnership Conference is yet to be decided. But AAHOA said it plans to hold regional events across the country., Indian American women hotel-owners hold successful two-day conference |
Indian Embassy in Bahrain Launches new displays showcasing Punjab Tourism and ODOP scheme (2024-09-20T12:35:00+05:30)
 The Indian Embassy in Bahrain unveiled new displays showcasing Punjab’s tourism attractions and One District One Product (ODOP) scheme in a vibrant ceremony this week. The event marks Punjab as the sixth state to be featured in the Embassy’s ongoing ‘focus state-union territory’ initiative. Colorful walls in the Consular hall now highlight Punjab’s rich cultural heritage and diverse products, offering visitors a glimpse into the state’s touristic appeal and unique ODOP offerings. This month-long promotion aims to raise awareness among the Bahraini public and Indian diaspora about Punjab’s cultural and economic significance. Local Punjabi-speaking community members attended the inauguration, with the women-led organization Punjabi Virsa playing a key role. The group sourced ODOP products for the display and enriched the event with a lively cultural performance and Punjabi cuisine tasting. The ODOP scheme, a central feature of this exhibition, aims to promote at least one signature product from each Indian district, fostering socio-economic growth across regions. Products are carefully selected based on local ecosystems, export potential, and geographical indications. Ambassador of India to Bahrain, Vinod K. Jacob, presided over the inauguration ceremony. Addressing the gathering , he expressed gratitude to the community for their support in procuring ODOP items. The Ambassador also took the opportunity to brief attendees on the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign, an initiative by India’s Ministry of Tourism to develop world-class tourist destinations based on diaspora recommendations. This initiative not only strengthens cultural ties between India and Bahrain but also provides a platform for promoting Indian states’ diverse offerings on an international stage. The Punjab display follows successful showcases of Rajasthan, Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Odisha at the Embassy. As the Punjab exhibition continues for the next month, visitors to the Indian Embassy in Bahrain will have the opportunity to explore the state’s rich cultural diversity and unique products, furthering cultural understanding and potentially boosting tourism and trade links between the two nations. Indian Embassy in Bahrain Launches new displays showcasing Punjab Tourism and ODOP scheme |
ICAR Nagaland Centre conducts workshop on promoting oilseeds (2024-09-09T13:47:00+05:30)
 Participants of the ICAR Nagaland Centre workshop on promoting oilseeds held in Wokha on August 23 The ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, organized an interactive workshop on the promotion of oilseeds on August 23 at Conference Hall, ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Nagaland with C. Peter Yanthan, Director of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, as the Chief Guest, and Dr. Girish Patil, S., Director, ICAR-NRC on Mithun, as the Guest of Honor. Special guests and resource persons included Dr. Md. A. Aziz Qureshi and Dr. Jawahar Lal Jatothu, both Principal Scientists from ICAR-IIOR, Hyderabad. The programme was funded by ICAR-IIOR, Hyderabad. The programme, funded by ICAR-IIOR, Hyderabad, brought together various officials from line departments across Kohima, Chumukedima, Dimapur, Peren, and Niuland districts, as well as representatives from SAS, KVKs, ATMA, and farmers. Dr. H. Kalita, HoRC, ICAR Nagaland Centre, welcomed the guests and emphasized the importance of increasing cropping intensity by incorporating oilseed crops into rice fallows. He highlighted the development of short-duration and drought-resistant crop varieties by ICAR Nagaland Centre, which would enable effective utilization of rice fallow areas. In his address, C. Peter Yanthan underscored the need for quality production and suggested exploring indigenous cultivars. He acknowledged the vast potential for cultivating diverse crops due to Nagaland's wide agro-ecological zones, while also recognizing the challenges faced. He also called for greater collaboration between ICAR and state government departments to enhance the oilseed sector in Nagaland and contribute to the state's development. Dr. Girish Patil reiterated the importance of increasing cropping intensity by introducing oilseeds into rice fallows and discussed the use of oilseed byproducts in animal husbandry. Dr. A. Aziz Qureshi emphasized the importance of generating interest among farmers in oilseed production. He highlighted the region's potential for organic oilseed farming and advised farmers to unite into self-help groups or collectives. This, he noted, would facilitate mass cultivation and marketing, making it easier to establish processing units and maximize profits. Additionally,he stressed the need for focusing on value addition and establishing strong marketing linkages. Dr. Jawahar Lal presented a comprehensive package of practices for oilseed crops such as sesame, linseed, sunflower, and safflower to enhance oilseed production in Nagaland. He recommended conducting adaptive trials to identify the most suitable crop varieties for different locations across the state. He also emphasized the importance of capacity-building programs to support the promotion of oilseeds. Dr. Harendra Verma, Scientist, Project Investigator of Oilseeds Research at ICAR Nagaland Centre, emphasized the potential for expanding linseed cultivation in Nagaland, highlighting that 20-30% of the rice fallow area in the state could be utilized for linseed cultivation. He noted the exceptional performance of linseed varieties such as LSL-93 and Priyam, alongside sesame varieties Amrit and Prachi. He also reported the promising results from sunflower varieties KBSH-74 and KBSH-78 in the region.During the event, Yilobemo Erui, a farmer from New Wokha village recently recognized by Guinness World Records for cultivating the tallest coriander plant, was felicitated. In addition, various agricultural inputs, including electric pumps, sprayers, and threshing sheets, were distributed to 50 farmers from Chumukedima, Peren, Dimapur, and Niuland districts to support their farming activities.ICAR Nagaland Centre conducts workshop on promoting oilseeds | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
GPK graduation show held in Kohima (2024-09-06T14:11:00+05:30)
 Kohima | The Government Polytechnic Kohima today conducted the students’ graduation show of its Fashion Technology Department as part of the curriculum under the theme ‘Allure- Simply Fashion Melange.’ Sentiyanger, Additional secretary to the Government of Nagaland (H&TE) graced the show as the special guest. Certificates of achievement were awarded to Ovungbeni P Humtsoe, Rembeni, Yambeni and Khrielasanuo Dzüvichü. Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Er. Keyiekhru Rhutso, Principal, GPK while vote of thanks was proposed by A. Chubamenla, HoD, Fashion Technology. Source:morungexpress.com      |
Clinical Spa re-launches brand (2024-09-04T11:31:00+05:30)
 Dr Theyiesinuo Keditsu inaugurates the relaunching of Clinical Spa facility located above Family Health Clinic, Nagarjan Junction, Dimapur on August 10. Dimapur, (MExN): Clinical Spa celebrated its 8th year on August 10 with the relaunching of its brand and a new facility offering a host of medi-facial aesthetic treatments including the original HydraFacial, the world’s leading medi-facial, for the first time in Nagaland. A press release received here stated that the new facility located above Family Health Clinic, Nagarjan Junction, Dimapur, was inaugurated by Dr Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Assistant Professor, Kohima College. She is also an educator, cultural conversationalist and fashion icon, the press release stated. Earlier, the dedicatory prayer was pronounced by Pastor Brian. The Proprietor, Dr Kahuka Sema said Clinical Spa offers only medical-grade products and devices which are internationally approved with proven results while ensuring strict adherence to guidelines. Medi-facials are considered superior over regular facials and are preferred as they add an immediate glow and improve skin conditions like pigmentation, acne, scars and wrinkles. Medi-facials are also safe for all skin types, are long lasting and are delivered by a trained aesthetician or physician.“Although one session is enough for normal skin, several sessions may be required for best results,” it claimed. “Treatments are customized to each person’s specific skin concerns and may include treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, radiofrequency and laser,” it added. Other medi-facials offered by Clinical Spa include Dermalogica, ZO, Venus Viva, DiamondGlow and Vampires facials. Facials start at Rs 999. Clinical Spa re-launches brand | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
Huawei hosts green development elite club to drive industry collaboration on the transformation to green networks (2024-07-26T12:58:00+05:30)
 MWC 2024 | Huawei hosts green development elite club to drive industry collaboration on the transformation to green networks [Barcelona, Spain, February 26, 2024] Huawei hosts the Green Development Elite Club during MWC Barcelona 2024. More than 90 delegates from UNFCCC, ITU-T, and leading network operators such as Turkey Turkcell and Hong Kong Telecom (HKT) gathered together to discuss the latest developments in the building of Green Target Networks to further enable the sustainable development of the industry. In the intelligent era, global network operators should not only fulfill the social responsibility of reducing their own carbon emissions, but also seek to help wider industry with energy conservation and efficiency improvement. Now, with the advent of enhanced computing power and artificial intelligence, network operators can not only transform their own operations to reduce carbon footprint but also enable many new 2H and 2B services to help wider society also lower its carbon footprint.  Opportunities and Challenges for the Green Development of the ICT Industry In his opening presentation, Mr. Massamba Thioye, Project Executive of UNFCCC-GIH (UN Climate Change Global Innovation Hub), explained how the GIH organizes global industry partners to actively participate in and disseminate global thought leadership on “systemic innovation to enable green development”. Through multilateral collaboration with standards organizations, network operators, and equipment vendors from the ICT industry they hope to make breakthroughs in green innovation initiatives and green operation methods, and share best practices to support the sustainable development of humankind. Next, Ms. Qi Shuguang, Vice Chair of ITU-T SG5 (International Telecommunications Union Study Group 5: Environment, climate change and circular economy), Vice Chief Engineer of CTTL-system in CAICT, outlined the standardization work of Sustainable Digital Transformation which is focusing on Double-Edge Nature of ICTs. On the one hand, how to minimize the negative effect of ICT, including published Recommendations on circular economy, digital product sustainable passport, sustainable data centers, smart energy solutions, Climate Actions towards Net Zero, scope3 emissions and ongoing work related to environmental impacts assessment etc. On the other hand, due to huge potential of ICT to slash global GHG emissions , Ms. Qi briefly introduced the content of ITU-L. 1480 which is on assessment of enablement effect of ICT as well as under developing standard titled“Enablement indicator of ICT to other sectors and best practices to achieve Net Zero goal”. Finally, she mentioned the collaboration between ITU and other UN organization such as UNFCCC, UNEP, ETSI on standardization work of Sustainable Digital Transformation. Green Development Practices of Global Leading Operators: Mr. Yildiray Ornekli, Access network infrastructure associate director of the Türkiye Turkcell, was the first of two network operators presenting, sharing their green site solution. With simplified site redesign and extensive solar energy utilization, their Green Site Solution is more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, and as a side-effect, its cyber resilience is improved. Even during the major earthquake of 2023, the solution provided stable and reliable communication services to the impacted areas. Turkcell will continue to build 5,000+ green sites and 300 MW solar power plant in the future to rapidly improve wireless network coverage, introduce connectivity to unconnected areas, and help more people bridge the digital divide. Next, Mr. Derek Chen, Engineering Operations VP at HKT, shared HKT’s plan to become carbon neutral by 2050 and provided details of their green management system. HKT’s equipment room modernization program together with AI-driven power source scheduling has already greatly improved energy efficiency and operational efficiency. Now, 80% of their equipment rooms are equipped with intelligent power-saving meter systems, saving 31.8 GWh of power and reducing carbon emissions by 10% annually. HKT also provides various green services for communities and enterprises, including smart property management, cloud computing, generative AI services, telemedicine, and marine environment monitoring. Together, these are promoting green and sustainable social development. Beyond Imagination，Digit Create Green Future:  In the closing presentation, Zhou Yu, president of Huawei Network Consulting and System Integration, announced the release of two white papers which aim to stimulate and drive increased sustainability in both telecommunications operators, and the wider industry. The first white paper, “Green Management”, co-authored by China Mobile, Hong Kong Telecom and Huawei, proposes a management and governance framework to help network operators successfully transform to more sustainable operations. The second white paper “Green Network Evolution with Digital-Twins” introduces Huawei’s Green Network Evolution with the Digital Twin Platform (GNED), a transformative tool to helps carriers accelerate green transformation. Mr. Zhou Yu concluded by emphasizing that with the rapid development of computing and AI capabilities, operators can provide more innovative 2C, 2H, 2B and computing services. However, this leads to faster network expansion and rapid growth of operation costs. The network is gradually going beyond the limits of “Moore’s Law.” and exceed the control of the “man”. Huawei is committed to helping operators integrate green and intelligence into networks through new digital and AI technologies, and enabling the promotion of organizations, talents, and processes, to support the evolution of network architecture from “Pyramid” to “Spindle”, achieving continuous growth of network capabilities without increasing energy consumption – Beyond Imagination. To enable this transformation, Huawei has built many end-to-end digital capabilities based on its NetLIVE platform, such as Full-service Area Planning, Smooth and Resilience Migration and Continuous Operation. It provides operators with a comprehensive set of scenarios solutions such as Green Site Modernization, Green CO Modernization and Solar Farm etc. – Digit Create Green Future.In the future, Huawei’s Intelligent Connectivity Integration service will build on the concept of “Less for More” – less resource for more end-services – and focus on a holistic network-wide view rather than single sites in isolation. Huawei’s digital and AI capabilities will continue to build ever more green, efficient, resilient, secure and service-rich networks for operators, and is committed to achieving the strategic goals of green and sustainable development. MWC 2024 | Huawei hosts green development elite club to drive industry collaboration on the transformation to green networks |
tEA showcases NE India's craftsmanship at Texworld Exhibition, Paris (2024-07-11T11:46:00+05:30)
 PARIS, (MExN): A team from the Entrepreneurs Associates (tEA) private marketing company, Entrepreneurs Associates Natural Food & Handicraft Enterprise (EANFER) led by its Director, Neikule Duolo participated at the Texworld exhibition 2024 in Paris from July 1-3. The Texworld exhibition is a major international trade fair for fabrics, textiles, and accessories held biannually in Paris, France. It showcases a wide range of materials for fashion, from basics to high-end creations, and attracts professionals worldwide, including designers, buyers, and manufacturers. The fair focuses on trends, innovations, and sustainable practices in the textile industry. It’s a significant event for networking, discovering new suppliers, and gaining insights into upcoming textile trends, a press release issued by Keletsino Mejura, Documentation Associate, tEA stated. The team was facilitated by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Government of India, and the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC). EANFER’s Director, Neikule Doulo stated, “This is a wonderful platform to showcase our Indigenous handiworks to the global audience, and I hope the world will appreciate the creativity of our local communities and the ingenuity of our works.” Sharing about the event, Lucy Bora, Executive Business Development of NEHHDC further elucidated, “This event will serve as a platform to showcase the rich textile heritage of Nagaland, including the unique and sustainable Naga textiles and fibers. One of the highlights will be Nettle fibre, a distinctive and eco-friendly material from the Nagaland region, presented by EANFER. This participation underscores our commitment to promoting traditional crafts and sustainable practices globally.” tEA also highlighted that for the past twenty-four years, it has been committed to creating livelihood opportunities for the people of North East India. Understanding that markets are critical for the long-term sustainability of any communities it works with, tEA developed its private marketing company, ‘EANFER,’ to link communities with markets, it stated. Reaffirming its commitment to contributing to the promotion and growth of cultural exchange and appreciation for indigenous craftsmanship within the global textile industry, tEA said it hoped to achieve this through its marketing company, which aims to bring indigenous products to the national and international markets, promoting sustainable development and cultural heritage. tEA showcases NE India's craftsmanship at Texworld Exhibition, Paris | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
Promoting violence? Alcohol specials lead to increased aggression in bars (2024-04-30T10:56:00+05:30)
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Francis Markham, Australian National University and Martin Young, Southern Cross University Melbourne’s CBD has become increasing violent late at night. In 2009–10, 2568 assaults were reported to police. This was a 3.7% increase on the 2008 figures and a 35% increase on assaults in 2005. In 2007–08, 10% of all public place assaults occurred in licensed premises. More than 25% were flagged as involving alcohol. Ambulance attendances for alcohol intoxication increased by 258% in metropolitan Melbourne between 2000–01 and 2010–11. These statistics support the impression that going out at night anywhere in inner-city Melbourne is a risky proposition. But assaults in licensed venues are highly concentrated in specific licensed venues. Some venues are more dangerous than others: A study conducted in inner Sydney found that half of all assaults in hotels occurred in just 10% of venues – and 3% of venues accounted for 25% of assaults. A similar pattern of the concentration of harm in risky venues occurs in other cities around the world like Cincinnati where analysis has been undertaken. To answer the question “why are some venues more violent than others?”, we conducted an observational study of 45 venues in Melbourne’s CBD. Our exploratory study involved the collection of two data sets. First, 18 experts in the Melbourne night-time economy were surveyed and asked to rate the risk of aggression in 45 specific venues. These experts, who included security guards, entertainers, managers and bar staff, exhibited considerable consensus in their risk ratings of venues. A research team member then visited these venues late on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights. While having a drink, they made a quick rating of the venue’s maintenance and atmosphere, patron behaviour and demographics, security levels, music and marketing. These venue characteristics were compared to the expert ratings to see which were most closely associated with aggression. The single most important predictor of perceived violence at the venue level was the prominence of alcohol promotions. Violence levels were consistently higher in venues where alcohol was promoted through measures such as excessively cheap drinks, extended happy hours, “buy two, get one free” discounts, discounted alcoholic energy drinks and so on. Alcohol promotions are associated with elevated in-venue aggression because they encourage people to drink more alcohol more quickly. Other studies have replicated this finding. However, in our research, we subjectively rated patron intoxication levels as well as alcohol promotions. Apparent intoxication was less strongly associated with aggression than alcohol promotions. This implies that either our measure of intoxication was problematic or that promotions are associated with violence at a level over and above the pharmacological effects of intoxication. What do these findings mean? It may be that promotions of alcoholic beverages, particularly combinations of alcohol and energy drinks, encourage patterns of risky drinking behaviour (drinking quickly, buying rounds) and produce mass patron intoxication (cheap drinks, drink specials). They may engender a group intoxication response over and above individual effects. The physiological impacts of energy drinks may also mask the pharmacological and behavioural effects of alcohol. This allows for increased alcohol consumption. While these findings result from a single, modestly resourced study, they are consistent with the findings of other research. These also suggest alcohol promotions increase the risk of alcohol-related harms associated with licensed premises. These other studies used a variety of methodologies in different locations, and have come to similar conclusions. This should increase our confidence in the existence of a promotions–aggression link. How to respond: Evidence suggests the “Newcastle Model” of modestly reduced opening hours has dramatically reduced the incidence of alcohol-related assaults. Our study suggests regulators may also wish to consider strengthening responsible service of alcohol initiatives focused on alcohol promotion as a specific harm-minimisation measure. Responsible service of alcohol regulations that restrict alcohol promotions that cause mass intoxication (like shots and permanently discounted drinks), particularly in combination with energy drinks, may further reduce aggression within individual venues in the night-time economy. The full results of this study were published here. This piece was co-authored by AJ McFadden, a former honours student at Southern Cross University.  Francis Markham, PhD Candidate, The Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University and Martin Young, Associate Professor, Centre for Gambling Education and Research, Southern Cross University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. |
Yeo launches innovative soy milk beverages in Asia to boost immunity (2024-04-02T14:26:00+05:30)
 02 Apr 2024 --- Singapore-based Yeo Hiap Seng unveils Yeo’s Immuno Soy Milk, fortified with vitamin B6 and zinc to support the body’s immune system. The new beverage is endorsed as Healthier Choice in Singapore and Malaysia, offering a lactose-free and healthy alternative to conventional breakfast drinks. The new soy milk range is naturally high in protein and contains calcium. It is available in original and chocolate flavors, with more variations planned for the future. “In an era of evolving consumer lifestyles, it is essential for brands to innovate to meet changing needs. With this launch, Yeo’s is offering health-conscious consumers a delicious, nourishing beverage that also supports their immune system,” says Ang Chong Lee, Yeo’s chief marketing officer. “The new series of soy milk represents a significant milestone for one of Yeo’s signature beverages. We remain committed to our heritage of crafting drinks with quality ingredients that both nourish and satisfy our customers.” Innovating soy milk: Yeo says the new range is one of the “biggest innovations” of the brand’s classic soy milk in 70 years. The company notes that the new enhanced addition to its existing beverages provides a smoother and more delicious taste. In 1954, the company launched a vitamin-infused soy milk drink, Beanvit, and in 1967, it started packaging soy milk and other Asian drinks in Tetra Brik aseptic cartons. The latest launch coincides with Ramadan, supporting the Muslim community with a “nourishing beverage during the fasting period.” Innova Market Insight data indicates that product launches with vitamins and minerals experience a global surge at a 4% average annual growth between 2019 and 2023. Nearly half of these product launches contain an immune health claim. Healthy alternative dairy: Recent research links plant-based diets to various health benefits, such as reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer. Moreover, some dairy manufacturers are entering the plant-based dairy market, investing in innovative ingredients that deliver value to companies and consumers. Meanwhile, industry professionals say consumer interest in immune-supporting nutrition is here to stay. For example, Innova Market Insights data suggests that immunity support claims in sports nutrition and supplement launches increased 13% annually from 2018 to 2023. Globally, consumers associate a poor immune system with being more susceptible to catching a cold and other day-to-day illnesses. Immuno Soy Milk is available in major supermarkets and convenience stores across Singapore and Malaysia in 250 ml packets, 380 ml bottles and one-liter cartons. The company runs a fully integrated social media, advertising and in-store communications campaign in both countries, with sampling events and digital ads to promote the launch.By Jolanda van Hal, Yeo launches innovative soy milk beverages in Asia to boost immunity |