Chennai (The Hawk): Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) Carbon Zero Challenge’s (CZC) next edition is focusing on ‘Resource Depletion and Pollution,’ which has been accelerated by the crises of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss.
CZC 2022, an all-India eco-innovation and entrepreneurship competition, aims to accelerate lab-to-market transition of eco-innovations in India by funding innovations from proof-of-concept, lab-scale solutions to working prototypes or pilots.
Shortlisted teams will get funding and mentorship support to establish start-ups and take their idea to the market through commercialization. In addition, CZC 2022 winners will get Rs. 10 lakh as start-up seed grant and continued support from IIT Madras such as access to IITM incubation resources and Angel and VC funding.
Asia will have more than 1 billion vehicles by 2035 with as much as 80 per cent of air pollution in Asia’s cities being attributable to transport sector, according to reports by Asian Development Bank (ADB). Environmental degradation was costing India around US$ 80 billion annually, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India.
Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, launched the third edition of Carbon Zero Challenge (CZC) today (24th August 22) at an event on campus in the presence of CZC Principal Coordinator, Prof. Indumathi M. Nambi and other stakeholders.
The last date to apply is 24th September 2022. The details of the competition and application procedure can be obtained from CZC2022 web portal - https://czeroc.in
Addressing the launch event, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, “Based on experiences gained from previous editions of CZCs and other research initiatives, IIT Madras is going to establish a ‘School of Sustainability’ that will work towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). CZC 2022 is going to give us a feel of challenges and technology needs in the field so that our Research, Course Curriculum and other activities are targeted towards solving issues in meeting SDGs and the overall direction of this upcoming School of Sustainability.”
Thanking Thales and other supporters of CZC 2022, Prof. V. Kamakoti added, “Seed funding is important to convert an idea into a working prototype and support teams through preincubation and incubation. HomoSEP, which was supported during the earlier editions of CZC, has converted into a product and the third device has been given recently to a family member of a person who was engaged in manual scavenging.”
Further, Prof. V. Kamakoti said, “IIT Madras will open up its patenting mechanism to the participants of this contest to get their innovations patented. The Institute also has a strong incubation ecosystem that can help start-ups mature and convert their ideas into a viable business.”
The Theme for CZC 2022 is CZC for ‘CRC’ (or) ‘Circularity in Resources Conservation.’ The idea is to highlight the need to balance demand and earth’s supply through resource conservation, rethinking design and materials to enable reduction, recycling, recovery and reuse of resources. The industry and public service systems need non-polluting technology to achieve this and low carbon, land footprint.
Highlighting the key focus areas of CZC 2022, its Principal Coordinator, Prof. Indumathi M. Nambi, Faculty, Department of Civil Engineering Department, IIT Madras, said, “CZC 2022 would focus on fostering innovative solutions incorporating circularity and sustainability for managing and conserving the following resources - Air, Water, Soil, Materials, and Energy. The competition will focus its target applicant pool on teams that have already demonstrated and validated lab-scale proof of concept, with a clear technological advancement.”
Further, Prof. Indumathi M. Nambi said, “The focus will be on technologies that aid in recovery of resources and pollution mitigation that are not receiving sufficient attention from the investment community. The proposed solutions by teams participating in this competition should have low carbon, water and eco footprint and have a large societal impact.”
The Key Aspects of Carbon Zero Challenge 2022 include:
Ø Wider Range of Solutions: Solutions to sustainability challenges can be deep technology, a new business model, a new app-based inventory, IT /IOT/AI and data analysis, a new policy intervention, or a combination of the four.
Ø Faculty-led/Research scientist-led teams: Faculty initiation and involvement are key to sustaining the momentum and continuing the journey to higher TRLs and Incubating Start-ups.
Ø Focus on Commercialisation of research: CZC will invest in developing the “go-to-market capabilities” of the selected teams and expect the teams to develop their alignment and relevance to the marketplace.
The competition is expecting a good mix of applications from academic/ research labs and early-stage start-ups. Around 100 teams are expected to be shortlisted by October 2022, of which 25 teams will be given prototype funding up to Rs 5 lakh per team.
The teams will also be trained to sharpen their market orientation and entrepreneurial quotient and develop the sustainability report for their product to market it as a clean-tech company. The teams will be connected to experts in industry and academia to hone their technical and business skills.

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) Carbon Zero Challenge’s (CZC) next edition is focusing on ‘Resource Depletion and Pollution,’ which has been accelerated by the crises of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss.

IIT Madras Carbon Zero Challenge 2022 Launched With Focus On Sustainability Innovations & Eco-Ventures 

Chennai (The Hawk): Talbros Automotive Components Limited, a supplier of auto accessories, announced on Friday that its joint ventures and business divisions had acquired fresh multi-year contracts totaling Rs 420 crore from both local and foreign clients.
These orders, which span the company's product lines for gaskets, heat shields, forgings, and chassis, are to be carried out over the course of the next five years.
One of the new orders, worth Rs 160 crore, came from a major electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, according to Talbros Automotive. Over the course of five years, the order will be completed.
Additionally, the business stated that the orders are coming from the non-automotive sector for export markets.
Anuj Talwar, Joint Managing Director, stated that the new orders "further boost the income and profit visibility for Talbros group and will help us acquire market share in the next years."
(Inputs from Agencies)

Talbros Automotive Components Limited, a supplier of auto accessories, announced on Friday that its joint ventures and business divisions had acquired fresh multi-year contracts totaling Rs 420 crore from both local and foreign clients.

New orders worth Rs. 420 billion are placed with Talbros Group

Haridwar (The Hawk): A day long Adventure Camp was organized at Delhi Public School, Daulatpur in association with Dolphin Adventure Company this Saturday in the school campus under the supervision of teachers and staff. Principal of the school Poonam Srivastava said, "
Many activities that enhance the gross motor skills were set up in the field. It encompassed an array of adventure activities like commando net, commando crawl, trampoline, ladder walk, parallel rope, balancing beam hanging tyres, train ride, wall climbing and archery. The students managed confidently in crossing the Zip Line and the activity of Crossing the building." The children participated with zeal and were delighted when they completed each task. Every activity aimed at honing a different skill. Students had a joyful experience. The camp concluded with unforgettable memories.

A day long Adventure Camp was organized at Delhi Public School, Daulatpur in association with Dolphin Adventure  Company this Saturday in the school campus under the supervision of teachers and staff. Principal of the school Poonam Srivastava said, "

Adventure Camp Thrills Students

Siliguri: The government is coming out with a law for adventure tourism safety which will have provisions for constitution of state level safety bodies, penalties for violations and a requisite insurance scheme, a senior official said on Sunday. The draft model law — Adventure Tourism (Monitoring and Regulation Act) — has been distributed to states and feedbacks have been filed by six states so far, the tourism ministry official said. The states include Punjab, Uttarakhand and Tripura, he said. “Tourism is a state subject but through this legislation the Centre wants to give direction to the states to follow safety practices,” he said. Explaining the various facets of the draft, the official said it includes various provisions of constitution of adventure tourism safety division, penalties for violations and a requisite insurance. The draft contains provision of the “Constitution of Adventure Tourism Safety Division” under the Directorate of Tourism by the state government. It also has provisions for an “Annual Safety Audit and Physical Inspection” of the Adventure Activity Service Providers (land/water/air) and the setting up of mechanism by the Directorate of Tourism. Under institutional framework, the draft also gives powers to the government to declare any area in the state to be an Adventure Tourism Area for the purpose of development, promotion, regulation and management of Adventure Tourism and related infrastructure and services. The draft bill also proposes identification and marking of areas where tourism activities (land, air and water) are possible and should be allowed, and also prohibits the conduct of activities apart from the notified area. There is also provisions of specially trained guides/instructors for the promotion of inclusive tourism and especially cater to requirements of the persons with disabilities and women. This draft legislation focuses on the establishment of risk management cell which will cover the reporting of accidents/incidents in a prescribed format and publish such data on annual basis. The draft bill proposes provisions for refusal to register adventure tour operators and the adventure activity service providers on the basis of the grounds: offender under Indian Penal Code 1860 due to involvement in an criminal act, owner/proprietor declared insolvent by the court and owner/proprietor does not hold appropriate licence. The penalties for violations will be in the form of warnings, monetary sanctions, cancellation &amp; suspension of registration and even imprisonment, according to the draft bill. The government is giving a major push to adventure tourism and promoting it at the second G-20 tourism working group meeting. Tourism minister G Kishan Reddy said India’s topography provides for an ideal destination for sustainable adventure tourism. “We have a 7,000-km coastline, 70 per cent of the Himalayas, about 700 kilometres of rivers, sand desert and cold desert in Ladakh…all of which provide opportunities for a variety of adventure activities for both domestic and foreign tourists,” Reddy said on Saturday. “India is looking to explore the full potential of adventure tourism keeping in mind sustainability and opportunities for livelihood for local communities,” he added. He made the comments during the second Tourism Working Group Meeting that is being held in Darjeeling and Siliguri from April 1 to 3. —PTI&nbsp;

The government is coming out with a law for adventure tourism safety 

Govt Preparing Law For Adventure Tourism Safety: Official

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Tourism is all set come out with a mobile app to further strengthen the country's first 'Women-Friendly Tourism' initiative launched by the state government to turn the state's tourism sector gender inclusive.  Aiming at participation of 1.5 lakh women from the state, the project is being implemented with the support of various organisations, including UN Women.  It has set a target of creating 10,000 women ventures and 30,000 jobs in the tourism sector.  State Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas rolled out the initiative in tune with the UN Women's 'Gender Inclusive Tourism' concept, which sees women playing key roles in tourism sector besides rolling out a variety of women-friendly tourism products and packages.  "We are living in a world where it has become a trend for women to travel to far off places in groups of their own or individually. Creating a conducive ambience for women tourists in the state is a policy priority of the government. The app on Women-Friendly tourism project will make the visit to Kerala more pleasant and hassle-free for women," said Riyas.  State Responsible Tourism Mission (RT Mission), the nodal agency for implementing the aWomen-Friendly Tourism' project, has been asked to prepare the content of the app, which will have all location-specific information and images, including the socio-cultural features of various places of Kerala, to serve as a ready reckoner on the unique project.  The mobile app marks the commencement of the second phase activities of the pioneering project. Apart from providing information about tourism centres in Kerala, the app will have all the details of women-friendly tourism products and packages, resorts, hotels, women enterprises, recognised tour operators, women tour operators, travel agencies, home stays and women tour guides.  RT Mission State Coordinator K. Rupeshkumar said information in the app will include women-led handicraft and souvenir production and sales units, amenities like rest rooms, camping sites, licensed houseboats, caravan parks and ethnic cuisine units in various places, festivals and experiential and adventure packages. —IANS

Kerala Tourism is all set come out with a mobile app to further strengthen the country's first 'Women-Friendly Tourism' 

'Women-Friendly Tourism' app to create 10,000 women ventures, 30K tourism jobs in Kerala

Dehradun: The closing ceremony of the 'Soul of Steel' event was organised in Ghamsali on Sunday. It was attended by GOC-in-C Central Command, GOC UB Area and a huge gathering of school students, local villagers, officers and soldiers of the Indian Army, ITBP, and NDRF amongst many others, a release said. The first-of-its-kind, the "Soul of Steel Himalayan Challenge" was conducted in forward areas of the Garhwal Himalayan region with the aim to achieve the BJP-led central governments initiative of 'Vibrant Village' to arrest migration from border areas by unlocking the tourism potential of Himalayas and create income sources for the locals. The 'Soul of Steel' event, supported by the Indian Army in collaboration with Conquer Land Air Water (CLAW) Global, was launched by Defence Minister on January 14 at Dehradun. The campaign was started on the 120th Raising Year of 9 (Independent) Mountain Brigade Group. The event showcased a unique blend of specialized skills including high-altitude mountaineering, extreme cold survival, and psychological and physical endurance. The challenge opens the domain of niche military skills to an average youth who wishes to challenge his/her physical and psychological limits. The challenge attracted interest from 1401(including 94 women) highly skilled athletes, adventure sports enthusiasts and armed forces aspirants. "These applicants were put through a gruelling two-stage screening process, out of which only 23 (including two women) of them were finally selected to undergo a 10-week long extensive training in endurance, mountaineering, survival and rescue skills under the joint team of experts from Indian Armed Forces and CLAW Global. The participants were trained to operate beyond the assumed limits of their bodies, to discover the limitless realms of their minds, consciousness and spirit," a press release stated. The final phase of the event was held from June 10 to 17, in which 18 Soul of Steel warriors set out on a challenge to compete as teams of three along the rugged mountainous terrain of the Garhwal Himalayas, at an altitude of 17000 feet and covered a distance of 65 kilometres through glaciers, ice walls, rock faces and snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The challenge tested their self-sustained mountain climbing, survival, navigation skills, psychological endurance and physical toughness. "In this challenge, only the toughest competed, few sustained and the best won but everyone evolved," the release read further. The event also featured breathtaking performances by Indian Army on rock climbing, mixed martial arts and Kalaripayattu, which enthralled the audience. The local villagers regaled the audience with regional folk dances and songs, the statement added. The chief guest felicitated the winning team with medals and trophies and announced the opening of 'The Human Ability Biome', which will act as a perennial hub for advanced skill training courses in Land, Air and Water adventure activities, life skill training, environmental conservation, forestry training programs, rehabilitation and research aimed at harnessing the potential of the human mind and body. —ANI

The closing ceremony of the 'Soul of Steel' event was organised in Ghamsali on Sunday. It was attended by GOC-in-C Central Command

Closing Ceremony Of 'Soul Of Steel, India—A Beacon For Human Unity Through Spirit Of Adventure' Held In Uttarakhand's Ghamsali

Chamoli: Uttarakhand police on Monday urged people to not venture near banks of rivers in view of the continuous heavy rainfall in the State. Chamoli police took to microblogging site 'X', formerly known as Twitter, to state “Due to the rains in the mountains, the water level of the rivers has increased continuously, due to which frequent landslides are happening at the places along the banks of the river. Chamoli police request you to avoid such places and people living on the banks of the river should be alert.” The official Twitter handle of Chamoli police also tweeted a video of a person falling into the river due to a landslide to warn people. On Friday, the water level in the Pindar River in the Tharali area of Chamoli district surged following heavy rainfall in the state. Heavy rains in Uttarakhand this monsoon have triggered landslides and flash floods in several places. An official estimate earlier put the toll from rain-related incidents at 52 while another 37 people were injured. Heavy rains in Uttarakhand triggered landslides and flash floods in several places, officials said. —ANI

Uttarakhand police on Monday urged people to not venture near banks of rivers in view

Uttarakhand: Police Urge People To Not Venture Near Riverbanks

New Delhi: The journey that started with a three-kilometre run every day after the office has not ended even after five Guinness World records including a 4,000 km from Kashmir to Kanyakumari in 87 days.
For Ajmer-born Sufiya Sufi, running is not just about breaking records but in fact, a therapy to take all the load off her shoulders, see the country, find connections with strangers, and just be "free" from 9-hour shifts. It is also about testing herself, knowing her body's limits, and then challenging them.
"I worked at the IGI airport in Delhi for a decade as a baggage handling officer. Though joining the aviation industry was always a dream, I realized that the robotic schedule was ruining my health and giving me no opportunity to be 'out there' in the real sense of the world. Slowly, I started taking part in marathons and ultimately hired a professional running coach. At that point, I knew tarmac would be my best friend," the 37-year-old tells IANS.
Just back after running the Manali-Leh circuit in a mere 97 hours -- becoming the fastest runner in the world in both male and female categories, the ultra-runner admits that it was one of the biggest challenges she faced. In fact, she did it twice so as to finish it under 100 hours. "When I attempted it in July for the first time, it took 113 hours owing to some medical issues. However, considering my body was already acclimatized, I attempted it again after 10 days and succeded."
Admitting that running as an adventure sport is yet to get its due in India especially as compared to other countries, Sufi, who has now added 'Runner' to her name officially, says it is a huge struggle to get it recognised.
With no support from the Central or state governments, this record clincher, who says her partner, a cyclist, has been a great motivation, adds: "One needs to be on the street constantly, and almost lives on them, funds are indispensable. Till now, we have been managing with crowdfunding. It is a new sport, and it is a lot of struggle to get recognised. I have not got support yet from the government but we are trying to get ultra-running recognition from the government and we have got sponsorships from private companies."
"You need to live on the streets for long months. We always try for it and we do get crowdfunding from platforms. Under Armour is a constant supporter. But sometimes they also struggle with it," she asserts.
And it is a sacrilege to ask her about the run she enjoyed the most. Sufi keeps silent for a few seconds and then says: "Each one has thrown a different challenge, and has been across varied places and altitudes. The weather has been diverse, my own health condition perpetually plays a role... In short, it has been a different fun each time."
Now all set to run across Qatar for the second time, the year 2025 will witness this pro-athlete do the 'Run Around the Globe' where she will run 30,000 km in 680 days and will be the first female runner to take this challenge. "I am preparing myself well, and extremely confident -- the two things you need the most."
—IANS

The journey that started with a three-kilometre run every day after the office has not ended even after five Guinness World records

'Run Sufi run': This Ajmer girl won't pause even after 5 Guinness World records

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu unveiled the official website and promotional materials for the upcoming Pre-World Cup Paragliding competition, set to take flight from October 26, at Bir-Billing in Kangra district. According to a press release, this, much-anticipated event, jointly organized by the Billing Paragliding Association and the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, has already attracted considerable international attention.
A total of 159 participants from 28 countries have registered for the event, showcasing the global appeal of Bir-Billing as a paragliding destination. Paragliding enthusiasts from countries including the United States, Australia, New Zealand, France, Sweden, Germany, China, South Africa, Belgium, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Kazakhstan, Norway, Nepal, Vietnam, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and Canada, along with paragliding teams from the Indian Air Force, Army, and Navy, will vie for top honours in the competition. Participants will be ranked according to international standards, bringing prestige to the event. The Pre-World Cup Paragliding competition has received official approval from the Federation of Aeronautical International Paragliding World Cup Commission and Aero Club India, cementing its status as a recognized event in the paragliding world.
Safety remains paramount, and the organizers have enlisted the support of two teams from the Army Adventure Wing and the Indian Air Force Adventure Wing, equipped with dedicated rescue teams to respond swiftly to any unforeseen emergencies. Additionally, helicopters will be on standby, further enhancing comprehensive safety measures. Bir-Billing, often referred to as the 'Paragliding Capital of India,' has earned its reputation as a global hub for paragliding enthusiasts. Its stunning landscapes and ideal flying conditions have made it a magnet for renowned paragliders from across the world. Beyond paragliding, Bir-Billing is also celebrated for activities such as trekking, mountain biking, and spiritual studies, adding to its allure as a multifaceted tourist destination. Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the government's commitment to promoting tourism in Kangra, with the goal of establishing it as the Tourism Capital of the State. He expressed confidence that the Pre-World Cup event, featuring participants from 28 countries, would significantly bolster the government's efforts to promote adventure sports, water sports, and other adventure-based activities in the region. The launch of the official website and promo marks another milestone in the journey towards the Pre-World Cup Paragliding event, which promises to showcase Bir-Billing's beauty and its position as a global paragliding hotspot. Chief Parliamentary Secretary Kishori Lal, President of the Billing Paragliding Association Anurag Sharma, and other dignitaries joined Chief Minister Sukhu in commemorating this exciting upcoming event.&nbsp;
—ANI

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu unveiled the official website and promotional materials for the upcoming Pre-World Cup

Himachal CM launches website, promo for Pre-World Cup Paragliding event

New Delhi: The Income Tax Department has issued new regulations concerning the valuation of equity and compulsorily convertible preference shares issued by startups to both resident and non-resident investors.  These regulations, effective from Monday (September 25), amend Rule 11UA of the Income Tax Rules. Under these changes, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) now allows the valuation of compulsorily convertible preference shares (CCPS) to be determined using the fair market value of unquoted equity shares.
The revised regulations also maintain the inclusion of five valuation methods initially proposed in the draft rules for assessing funds received from non-resident sources.  These methods are: (i) Comparable Company Multiple Method, (ii) Probability Weighted Expected Return Method, (iii) Option Pricing Method, (iv) Milestone Analysis Method, and (v) Replacement Cost Method.  A few businessmen have remarked that the amendments to Rule 11UA of the Indian Income Tax Act will introduce positive changes.  They said that these changes grant taxpayers flexibility by offering multiple valuation methods, simplify the process of considering the valuation date, encourage venture capital investments, facilitate investments from specified entities, provide clarity regarding compulsorily convertible preference shares (CCPS), and promote foreign investments.
—IANS

The Income Tax Department has issued new regulations concerning the valuation of equity and compulsorily convertible preference shares issued

I-T Department updates rules for startup equity valuation

Mumbai: Actress Hina Khan, who is all set to make a comeback as a challenger in ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’ season 13, said it's an honour to be chosen to set a benchmark for some of the bravest souls.  Taking the spirit of adventure of the show to the next level, the action maestro and host Rohit Shetty is all set to welcome the third challenger of this season.  
Christened as ‘Sher Khan’, the celebrated finalist of the show’s eighth season, Hina is renowned for her exceptional resilience and acing most of the stunts in the eighth edition of the show, is poised to challenge the contestants of this season.   Living up to her fearless persona, Hina will be seen entering the show crooning ‘Lag Ja Gale’ as she is about to jump off a cliff. In the upcoming episode, viewers will witness Hina's indomitable strength and a bigger adrenaline rush.   Talking about her return to 'KKK 13' as a challenger, Hina said: “Returning to ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’ was like revisiting the adventure that made me what I am today. I could not have imagined overcoming my fears if I had not been on this show.”   “Returning to it as a challenger brought back a flood of wonderful memories. This season of Khatron Ke Khiladi is unique in its own way and filled with mind-blowing stunts. It is an honour to be chosen to set a benchmark for some of the bravest souls,” said the ‘Hacked’ actress.   Hina said she is grateful to Rohit for his mentorship.   Earlier, actress Divyanka Tripathi had entered the show as a challenger.  'Khatron Ke Khiladi 13' airs on Colors.
—IANS

Actress Hina Khan, who is all set to make a comeback as a challenger in ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’ season 13, said it's an honour to be chosen to set a benchmark

Hina Khan enters ‘KKK 13’ as challenger: ‘Brought back a flood of wonderful memories’

Mumbai (Maharashtra): Makers of the upcoming drama film 'Dhak Dhak' on Thursday announced the release date of the title track of the film 'Re Banjara'. Taking to Instagram, actor Fatima Sana Shaikh shared the poster of the song which she captioned, "Get ready to live it up #DhakDhak title track #ReBanjara - out TOMORROW. In cinemas 13th October."
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CyA_-1Ithwn/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=7128cd5e-3ab6-43f1-bdbe-c8dd4e6af3b6" target="_self">https://www.instagram.com/p/CyA_-1Ithwn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;ig_rid=7128cd5e-3ab6-43f1-bdbe-c8dd4e6af3b6</a>&nbsp;
Titled 'Re Banjara' the song will be out on October 6. Helmed by Tarun Dudeja the film stars Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza and Sanjana Sanghi in the lead roles. 'Dhak Dhak' is all set to hit the theatres on October 13. The song's poster features all the lead cast of the film. The film's story revolves around four ordinary women who come together for an extraordinary journey of emotions, adventures, and discovery on a bike trip from Delhi to Khardung La. It explores how this journey changed their destinies forever. The film is produced by Viacom 18 and Taapsee Pannu. Apart from this, Fatima will also be seen in director Anurag Basu's film 'Metro..In Dino' and in Meghna Gulzar's next 'Sam Bahadur' alongside Vicky Kaushal and Sanya Malhotra. Sanjana Sanghi on the other hand, will be next seen in 'Pink' fame director Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury's untitled hindi film. Pankaj Tripathi and Parvathy Thiruvothu are also part of the movie. According sources, Sanjana and Tripathi will be playing the roles of daughter and father in the film.
—ANI

Makers of the upcoming drama film 'Dhak Dhak' on Thursday announced the release date of the title track of the film 'Re Banjara'.

Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ratna Pathak Shah's 'Dhah Dhak' title track 'Re Banjara' to be out on this date

New Delhi: In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to get caught up in routines and lose out on spending some quality time with your little ones. One of the most enriching ways to foster a strong parent-child relationship is by embarking on a journey of shared experiences together. With holidays around the corner, it is the perfect opportunity to plan an exciting holiday with your kids. South Africa is one of the popular destinations to explore with your children. The picturesque landscapes, rich cultural tapestry and thrilling adventures of this country are sure to spark the imaginations of young explorers.

<div style="text-align:left;"><img src="https://thehawk.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/Africa.webp" alt="Family Safari Holidays In Africa" style="height: auto;width: auto"/></div>
 This diverse Rainbow Nation is a treasure trove when it comes to exciting wildlife encounters, immersive cultural experiences, and an abundance of kid-friendly attractions that promise both entertainment and education. Moreover, exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and trying new activities together can be incredibly enriching. Whether it's hiking through scenic trails, tasting local cuisine, or marvelling at historical landmarks, every adventure becomes a shared experience that strengthens your bond. Here are five must-visit destinations that will surely be enchanting and educative for the entire family. Witness the Majestic African Wildlife at Kruger National Park Prepare for an unforgettable safari adventure at Kruger National Park, South Africa's premier wildlife sanctuary, where the iconic Big Five – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes – roam freely in their natural habitat. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September). Listen to the distant roar of lions and the gentle rustle of the grass as you spot herds of elephants and graceful giraffes, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Explore the Enchanting Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden Immerse yourself in a world of botanical splendour at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a celebrated gem among Africa's botanic gardens. Boasting an impressive collection of over 7,000 indigenous plant species, including the iconic silver tree, Kirstenbosch offers a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts of all ages. Explore the themed gardens, such as the Medicinal Plant Garden and the Fragrance Garden, where children can discover the region's diverse biodiversity while delighting in the scents and sights around them. Pro-tip for families: Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the breathtaking landscapes, surrounded by the sweet fragrance of native blooms. Don't miss the treetop canopy walkway, offering a bird's-eye view of the lush gardens, and providing a magical experience for nature lovers of all ages. Say hello to the Adorable Penguins at Boulders Beach Prepare to be captivated by the charm of Boulders Beach, where a thriving colony of African penguins delights visitors with their playful waddles along the pristine shores. Their distinct braying calls fill the air with a symphony of joy, creating a heartwarming encounter for the whole family. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon, when the penguins are most active, offering delightful entertainment as they dive into the ocean and frolic on the beach, leaving children mesmerized by their delightful antics. Take a Thrilling Cable Car Ride Up Table Mountain Embark on a panoramic journey to the top of Table Mountain, South Africa's iconic landmark, via an exhilarating cable car ride. Before you go, be sure to check the weather forecast and aim for a clear day to ensure stunning views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline. Marvel at the rugged cliffs and sprawling cityscape below as the cable car ascends, offering a breathtaking perspective of the natural beauty that surrounds you. Children will relish the excitement of the ride and the panoramic vistas from the mountaintop. Delve into the Marine Wonders at Two Oceans Aquarium Immerse yourself in the secrets of the underwater world at Two Oceans Aquarium, where a mesmerising array of marine life from the Indian and Atlantic Oceans awaits. Children will be captivated by the vibrant colours and diverse creatures, from playful penguins and graceful sea turtles to majestic sharks and colourful reef fish. Engage in interactive feeding sessions and educational talks that deepen your understanding of the delicate marine ecosystem. Be sure to plan your visit during the morning to witness the vibrant underwater world at its liveliest. Take a Walk-Through of History at Inanda Heritage Route The Inanda Heritage Route will take you on a fascinating journey back in time as it showcases the pivotal role this area played in South Africa’s struggle for freedom and equality. Each step is a lesson in history as you get to explore everything from Mahatma Gandhi’s Phoenix Settlement to Ohlange Institute, where Nelson Mandela cast his vote in the first democratic elections. Through engaging and interactive experiences, the kids will get a chance to indulge in cultural experiences as they try their hands at traditional Zulu crafts or participate in cultural workshops. This firsthand experience fosters understanding, empathy, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of diversity.
—IANS

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to get caught up in routines and lose out on spending some quality time with your little ones.

A journey for young explorers

New Delhi: The advance booking of 'Salaar: Part 1 - Ceasefire' is now open in theatres across north India, the makers on Sunday announced.
Starring Prabhas and Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film will be released in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam and Hindi on December 22, a day after Shah Rukh Khan's 'Dunki'.  Hombale Films, the production house behind 'Salaar', shared the update on its official X page.
"The wait is over. Bookings now open for #SalaarCeaseFire across North India," the banner said.  Directed by Prashanth Neel and produced by Vijay Kiragandur, the big-budget action adventure is the first part of the pan-India film series.  Shruthi Haasan, Tinu Anand, Eshwari Rao, Jagapathi Babu, Sriya Reddy, and Garuda Ram also round out the cast.
—PTI

The advance booking of 'Salaar: Part 1 - Ceasefire' is now open in theatres across north India, the makers on Sunday announced.

Advance booking opens for 'Salaar: Part 1-Ceasefire' in north India

Gulmarg (Jammu and Kashmir) [India]: World-famous tourist destination Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir is expected to receive a huge influx of tourists in the coming months, especially on New Year. The Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) along with other administrative wings and tourism players gears up properly for a successful winter tourist season. People from across the world visit Gulmarg during peak months of winter. The government is ready to welcome tourists by providing them with all needed facilities. Gulmarg, which is one of the most incredible tourist destinations, is famous for its eye-catching view during the snowfall season as well as the season of lupine flowers, which usually begins in mid-June and lasts until the end of July.
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Snowfall and other adventure activities including skiing, snow skating, snow cycling and the Khelo India event, organised by the J&amp;K sports council, youth sports and services and the Department of Tourism increase tourists' attraction towards Gulmarg. Hoteliers have already received guidelines from administrators regarding good arrangements including furnishing, proper electricity heating, arrangements, regular hot water supply and quality food at their restaurants. Meanwhile tourists dressed as Santa Claus marked Christmas Day celebrations in Gulamrg, Tourists also made their way to a picture perfect St. Mary Church in Gulmarg to celebrate the festival. Members of the Christian Community headed by Father Eric and Father Venoo held a prayer ceremony at the Church and prayed for the welfare of all the people of the valley and for a peaceful new year ahead.

<div style="text-align:left;"><img src="https://thehawk.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/g1.webp" alt="St. Mary Church in Gulmarg" style="height: auto;width: auto"/></div>

"Guess who came to #Gulmarg to celebrate #Christmas Eve? After all, what better place to celebrate the #holiday season? Join us for the new year festivities in #Jammu &amp; #Kashmir! #Christmas2023 #newyear #snow #winter #travelling #SeasonsGreetings" posted JK Tourism on X. Taxi operators and other service providers have received instructions from the government regarding proper services to tourists and maintaining the rates so that they too can earn their livelihood during the winter tourist season. Meanwhile, Ghanta Ghar in Srinagar has become a major tourist attraction offering panoramic views of the city. Tourists are enjoying the serene weather taking strolls around the Ghanta Ghar and taking selfies. The fog adds an element of mystery and romance to the experience, as the tower looms in and out of sight adding to the charm of the surroundings. The soft light filtering through the fog creates a dreamlike setting, making it a memorable and picturesque experience for all those who visit.
—ANI

World-famous tourist destination Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir is expected to receive a huge influx of tourists in the coming months

Gulmarg: Heavy tourist footfall during Christmas holidays signifies successful tourist season for JK

New Delhi: Adani Energy Solutions on Wednesday said its arm Adani Transmission Step-Four (ATSFL) will form a joint venture with UAE-based Esyasoft Holdings (EHL) to implement smart metering projects in India and abroad.
ATSFL and EHL would hold a 49 per cent and 51 per cent shareholding, respectively, in the proposed joint venture with equal participation in the board of directors of the company, according to a regulatory filing.  The filing said Adani Energy Solutions through its wholly-owned subsidiary ATFSL has entered into a definitive agreement on 26th December, 2023 for formation of a 49:51 JV with EHL to implement smart metering projects in India and globally.
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The agreement has been entered into to enable, inter alia, licensing by EHL to intellectual property rights (IPRs) of software products/solutions for smart meters and other industrial applications and further development of such products/solutions by a joint venture company of ATSFL and EHL, it stated.
—PTI

Adani Energy Solutions on Wednesday said its arm Adani Transmission Step-Four (ATSFL) will form a joint venture with UAE-based Esyasoft Holdings

Adani Energy Solutions arm to form joint venture with UAE-based Esyasoft Holdings

New Delhi: French energy giant TotalEnergies has invested Rs 2495.10 ($300 million) crore in a renewable energy joint venture (JV) with Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL).
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In a statement, AGEL said it completed "1,050 MW joint venture (JV) with TotalEnergies. As part of the JV, TotalEnergies invested $300 million in AGEL subsidiary, for acquiring 50 per cent stake in the projects."  This follows the binding agreement about the JV announced between AGEL and TotalEnergies in September 2023.  The JV houses the 1,050 MW portfolio comprising a mix of already operational (300 MW), under construction (500 MW) &amp; under development assets (250 MW) with a blend of both solar and wind power projects in India.  "Wth this transaction, TotalEnergies has reinforced its strategic alliance with AGEL and support in enabling AGEL's target of 45 GW capacity by 2030." It added.
—PTI

French energy giant TotalEnergies has invested Rs 2495.10 ($300 million) crore in a renewable energy joint venture (JV) with Adani Green Energy Limited

TotalEnergies invests Rs 2495 cr in Adani Energy project

New Delhi: Adani Group and a unit of Abu Dhabi's International Holding Company (IHC) have forged an alliance to seek deployment of artificial intelligence, internet of things and blockchain products to tap India's $175 billion (Rs 14.55 lakh cr) digital economy.
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"Adani Enterprises Ltd (AEL), through its wholly-owned subsidiary Adani Global Ltd and Sirius International Holding Ltd, a subsidiary of IHC, UAE, have entered an agreement to create a new joint venture named Sirius Digitech International Ltd, an entity based in Abu Dhabi," AEL said in a statement.  Sirius JV will be owned 51 per cent by Sirius and 49 per cent by Adani.
"Sirius JV will capitalise on the global digital transformation expertise of Sirius and Adani's strategic insights to focus on leading the $175 billion opportunity in the digitalisation of the Indian economy. This digital opportunity is rapidly evolving to become a $1 trillion market by 2030."  "Sirius JV will deploy an integrated ecosystem of digital platforms by leveraging the expanding power of artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT) and secured blockchain products across infrastructure industries and extending to areas that include finTech, healthTech and greenTech," the statement said.
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On Wednesday, Adani Energy Solutions formed a joint venture with a company backed by IHC to grow its smart meter business in India and globally.
A spokesperson at Sirius International Holding said, "We are pleased to embark on this transformative journey alongside Adani Enterprises. The partnership reflects a formidable commitment to address key challenges and unlock unprecedented opportunities in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. We believe that Sirius' expertise and Adani's dynamic approach will be instrumental in empowering businesses to thrive in the digital era with advanced technologies that optimise industries, streamline processes and foster growth."  A spokesperson at Adani Enterprises said, "Inexpensive sensorisation and the power of artificial intelligence are opening up new ways to drive extreme levels of efficiency, ensure real-time decision-making, and rapidly deploy transformative business models. The power of compute and the ability to deliver green energy to data centres creates a unique combination of strengths that we bring to this partnership with Sirius International Holding, which has a portfolio of the most exciting digital companies relevant today."  Sirius JV intends to commence deployment of cutting-edge AI and enterprise blockchain products and services for industrial applications while leveraging Adani Group's vast industrial testbed to validate and scale its solutions.  "By integrating Industrial digital solutions into their operations, companies are unlocking exponential levels of efficiency, productivity and innovation, and in many cases, completely reinventing their business models," the statement said.  The completion of the transaction shall be upon satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the receipt of necessary approvals.
—PTI

Adani Group and a unit of Abu Dhabi's International Holding Company (IHC) have forged an alliance to seek deployment of artificial intelligence

IHC, Adani in alliance to tap India's Rs 14.55 lakh cr digital economy

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: Actor-turned-author Twinkle Khanna, who shares her birthday with her father Rajesh Khanna, on Friday, shared a special post on his 81st birth anniversary. The 'Mela' actor took to Instagram to mark this day, she dug out a throwback picture from her childhood memories.
https://www.instagram.com/p/C1bn-cRxhVg/ In the picture, Rajesh Khanna can be seen holding baby Twinkle in his arms after she was born. Sharing the picture, she wrote, "Our birthday! Now and forever."  As soon as the picture was uploaded, fans and industry members flooded the comment section. Dia Mirza wrote, "Happy Birthday." Saif Ali Khan's sister Saba Pataudi commented, "Happy Happy Birthday." One of the users wrote, "Happy birthday to you. do miss Khanna Sahab."
Another user commented, "Happy Birthday Rajesh Khanna sir. we miss you legend." Few hours ago, she took to Instagram and shared that she celebrated her special day in an adventurous way. She, along with her husband Akshay, went snorkeling.  Twinkle also dropped a video in which she and Akshay can be seen spotting a sea turtle, colourful fish and corals. Twinkle also kissed Akshay through her mask. In a note, she wrote, "On my 50th birthday, my eyes and heart are still filled with wonder when I look at the world around me and at my family." Making her feel special on her special day, Akshay took to Instagram and dropped a hilarious yet sweet post. He posted a video in which Twinkle is seen posing in front of a Hulk statue and calling herself the real Hulk. "Long live my hulk!! Thank you for adding so many years to our life through your humour. May God add many more to yours. Happy Birthday, Tina," Akshay captioned the post.The video begins with a gorgeous picture of Twinkle posing against a scenic background. It has the words "Who I thought I married" written on it.  After this picture, there is a clip in which Twinkle unleashed her fun avatar and posed in front of a Hulk statue.She cutely said in Punjabi, "Ae hega putla, ae hega asli Hulk (this is a dummy, and I am the real Hulk)."Akshay edited this particular clip with the text "Who I actually married". Akshay's post left netizens in splits. Rajesh Khanna fondly referred to as Kaka, made the world record of having 17 successive super-hits in three years from 1969-71, including 15 consecutive solo super-hit films. The actor won the Filmfare Best Actor Award on three occasions and was nominated 14 times. The actor-turned-politician was posthumously awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honour.
—ANI

Actor-turned-author Twinkle Khanna, who shares her birthday with her father Rajesh Khanna, on Friday, shared a special post on his 81st birth anniversary.

"Now and forever": Twinkle shares adorable throwback picture with dad Rajesh Khanna on his 81st birth anniversary

New Delhi: In an unprecedented surge, Google searches for Lakshadweep have hit a two-decade high worldwide, marking a substantial uptick in interest after PM Modi's recent stay and beach outings, including snorkelling.  The flurry of interest surrounding Lakshadweep is attributed not only to PM Modi's activities but also to the controversy sparked by disparaging remarks made by Maldives officials regarding his visit. Indian figures, including cricketers and celebrities, have rallied in support of promoting local beach destinations, echoing PM Modi's call for boosting tourism in Lakshadweep.  During his Lakshadweep visit on January 2, PM Modi shared captivating images of the archipelago's stunning landscapes, encouraging adventure enthusiasts to consider it as a destination.  Significantly, a considerable portion of tourists visiting the Maldives comprises Indians. Amidst the Lakshadweep row, Maldives' Envoy to India, Ibrahim Shaheeb, engaged with the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.  Following a deleted post by Maldivian Deputy Minister Shiuna that disrespectfully referenced PM Modi, Maldives government officials, including Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, distanced themselves from such remarks. Zameer emphasized the government's commitment to fostering positive and respectful dialogues with all partners, especially neighboring countries. He condemned the unacceptable nature of the comments against foreign leaders, reiterating the Maldives' dedication to maintaining respectful relationships.
—Input from Agencies

PM Modi's Lakshadweep visit spurs tourism interest amidst controversy. Celeb support & adventure activities elevate Indian beach destinations.

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