March 29, 2024
UNESCO delivers the Certificate for "Garba of Gujarat" to India.
Photos: UNESCO delivers the Certificate for “Garba of Gujarat” to India. March 22, 2024. UNESCO Headquarters, Paris. Images provided by & copyright © UNESCO/Fabrice GENTILE.
Paris, France, March 29, 2024 — The Director-General of UNESCO delivered the “Garba of Gujarat” Certificate to India on March 22, 2024.
Recently, UNESCO declared the “Garba of Gujarat” as an intangible cultural heritage. This designation recognizes the role of Garba as a unifying force that fosters social and gender inclusivity. Garba is a dance form deeply rooted in ritualistic and devotional traditions that involve people from all walks of life.
The Evaluation Body of the 2003 Convention recognized India’s outstanding supporting material for the dossier. It acknowledged the importance of an element that champions unity in diversity and cultivates social equality among varied communities. UNESCO’s acknowledgment of inscribing an intangible cultural heritage element from Gujarat, Garba, will significantly elevate Garba’s global visibility and authentic essence.
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, expressed happiness on the inscription of the Garba of Gujarat on the Intangible Heritage List of UNESCO. He said, “Garba is a celebration of life, unity, and our deep-rooted traditions. Its inscription on the Intangible Heritage List showcases the beauty of Indian culture to the world. This honor inspires us to preserve and promote our heritage for future generations. Congrats on this global acknowledgment.”
Source: UNESCO
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:22 PM | View the original post
March 28, 2024
Diamond Ring Maker Neil Lane participates in the Finale Episode of ABC's Hit Reality Series "The Bachelor"
Photo: Emerald & Shield Shaped Neil Lane Diamond Ring chosen by “The Bachelor” Joey Graziadei.
Photo: Oval Engagement Ring made by Neil Lane.
Photo: Joey Graziadei and Kelsey Anderson, participants in “The Bachelor,” final episode, with Kelsey wearing a Neil Lane Diamond Engagement Ring (Photo Credit: Disney/John Fleenor).
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., March 28, 2024 — Diamond Ring Maker Neil Lane participated in the finale episode of ABC’s “The Bachelor.” The episode featured a stunning proposal from the newest Bachelor, Joey Graziadei, to Kelsey Anderson, set against the exquisite scenery of the beaches of Tulum, Mexico. This episode aired on Monday, March 25, on ABC.
On ABC’s hit primetime reality series “The Bachelor,” one lucky man gets the chance to find true love. A single and eligible bachelor embarks on a romantic journey, getting to know several beautiful women, gradually narrowing the field as he searches for his soul mate. At the end of the romantic journey, he proposes to his soulmate if he has found one. Warner Bros. produces the show.
In the final episode, Joey proposes to Kelsey with an emerald-cut stunner handmade in platinum. The diamond features two shield-shaped side stones, further accented by 18 round brilliant-cut diamonds. The approximate total weight of all 21 diamonds is 4 carats. They were designed and signed by Neil Lane.
Neil Lane is the go-to jeweler for Hollywood brides-to-be. He has designed engagement rings for stars like Reese Witherspoon, Kate Hudson, Jennifer Hudson, Jessica Simpson, Emily Blunt, and Miley Cyrus.
A fine jewelry designer with an eye for style and elegance, Neil Lane has earned the respect and admiration of leading film stars. From the Oscars to private celebrity events and red-carpet engagements, Neil Lane’s iconic pieces have adorned some of the most beautiful and influential women in Hollywood, including Angelina Jolie, Charlize Theron, Jennifer Lopez, Brie Larson, Anne Hathaway, Jennifer Lawrence, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Garner, Sofia Vergara, and Oprah Winfrey.
Source: Neil Lane
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 11:59 PM | View the original post
March 27, 2024
UGC India instructs the Public and Students to Check a University's Relevant Status before enrolling in its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) or Online Learning (OL) Program.
New Delhi, India, March 24, 2024 — The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a Public Notice instructing the Public and students to check a university’s relevant status before enrolling in its open and distance learning (ODL) and online learning (OL) programs.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has established regulations that set minimum standards of instruction for granting degrees and diplomas in ODL and Online mode. To ensure a positive learning experience, students should confirm the recognition status of the Higher Education Institution (HEI) offering ODL and Online education, check for prohibited programs and franchising arrangements, and ensure that the University conducts all activities or ODL programs within its territorial jurisdiction.
• Determining the Relevant Status of a Higher Educational Institution (HEI):
Recognition Status of the HEI: The UGC’s Distance Education Bureau (DEB) website provides the year-wise and academic session-wise status of HEIs recognized to offer programs through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online Learning (OL) modes.
Entitlement Status of the HEI: The UGC’s Distance Education Bureau (DEB) website provides the list of HEIs entitled to offer programs in ODL and Online modes, along with the names of the programs.
• Check the details on the HEIs’ website: All Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) recognized and entitled to offer Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and online programs are required to upload details including:
- Application submitted to UGC
- Affidavit
- Statutory body approval
- Regulatory authority approval
Students should thoroughly review the above information on their University’s Website.
• Further, the students must check which HEIs are prohibited from offering ODL or Online programs and are classified as ‘No Admission’ institutions.
• Additionally, students must ensure that the ODL and Online courses they enroll in strictly adhere to the UGC notification on Specification of Degrees, 2014, and its subsequent amendments regarding minimum duration, nomenclature, and entry-level qualifications.
• Conduct of Activities within the Territorial Jurisdiction of the University:
- Furthermore, Students must ensure that the University conducts all activities, including admissions, counseling, contact programs, program delivery, and examinations for ODL programs within its territorial jurisdiction.
• The University Grants Commission (UGC) prohibits specific disciplines from being offered under Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Online modes. These include Engineering, Medical, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, Nursing, Dental, Architecture, Law, Agriculture, Horticulture, Hotel Management, Catering Technology, Culinary Sciences, Aircraft Maintenance, Visual Arts, Sports, and Aviation. Additionally, the UGC prohibits M.Phil and Ph.D. programs from being offered in ODL and Online modes.
• March 31, 2024, is the last date for admissions to all HEIs for ODL and Online Programmes for the academic sessions commencing February 2024.
Source: UGC
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:04 AM | View the original post
March 25, 2024
Kendra Scott introduces Lab Grown Diamond Collection
— The company expands its product assortment with the newest collection, offering delicate jewelry styles designed for everyday use.
Photo: Kendra Scott introduces Lab Grown Diamond Collection. The company expands its product assortment with the newest collection, offering delicate jewelry styles designed for everyday use. Image provided by & copyright © Kendra Scott.
AUSTIN, Texas, March 25, 2024 — Kendra Scott, the lifestyle brand known for its innovative design and commitment to “Family, Fashion, and Philanthropy,” has introduced its Lab Grown Diamond Collection. Designed in Austin, Texas, and inspired by the brand’s goal of offering stylish jewelry to a broader audience, this new collection represents Kendra Scott’s latest effort to provide fine diamond styles at a more affordable price.
“We’re excited to introduce our Lab Grown Collection, a natural category addition as we continue to progress as a lifestyle brand and offer our customers another dynamic reason to shop with us,” said Founder, Executive Chairwoman, and Chief Creative Officer Kendra Scott. “We pride ourselves on putting the customer first, and we heard over the years that our customers wanted to shop with us for fine jewelry because they loved the company, they loved that we give back, and they wanted their jewelry collections to grow alongside our product assortment. Fine jewelry is as much a staple for your everyday as it is for life milestones, and we wanted to offer our customers who may be more accustomed to shopping with us at a lower price point an opportunity to expand their Kendra Scott collection.”
The collection’s diamonds are cultivated in a controlled laboratory environment, which allows for precise management of the stones’ clarity, cut, and production while also delivering cost savings to customers.
Kendra Scott LLC was founded in 2002 by Kendra Scott, who serves as the Founder, Executive Chairwoman, and Chief Creative Officer of her namesake lifestyle brand. The brand is known for its innovative designs, use of color, and signature shapes. Kendra Scott offers a wide range of products, including Fashion, Demi-Fine, Fine Jewelry, watches, engagement rings, fragrances, home accessories, and a men’s collection called Scott Bros. by Kendra Scott. The company follows a customer-centric approach with a network of 130 experiential stores and pop-up locations, partnerships with wholesale retailers such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and Dillard’s, and 850 specialty boutiques.
Source: Kendra Scott
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:23 AM | View the original post
March 24, 2024
Happy Holi
Happy Holi
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:22 PM | View the original post
NASA sets Coverage for Crew Launch; Trio to Join Expedition 70
— UPDATE —
• NASA Astronaut Tracy Dyson, Crewmates Safely En Route to Space Station
Photo: The Soyuz rocket launches to the International Space Station with Expedition 71 NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson, Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy, and Belarus spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya, onboard, Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Photo: Belarus spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya is seen behind glass during a press conference at the Cosmonaut Hotel in Baikonur, Kazakhstan, on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Expedition 71 NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson, Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy, and Belarus spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya launched aboard their Soyuz MS-25 spacecraft on March 23. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Photo: Belarus spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya gives a thumbs-up as she waits to have her Russian Sokol suit pressure checked. She and crew mates Expedition 71 NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy were preparing for their Soyuz launch to the International Space Station on Saturday, March 23, 2024, in Baikonur, Kazakhstan. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2024 — Three crew members, including NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson, successfully launched at 8:36 a.m. EDT Saturday from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan to the International Space Station.
Dyson, along with her crewmates Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy and spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya of Belarus, will dock to the space station’s Prichal module at about 11:09 a.m. on Monday, March 25, on the Soyuz MS-25 spacecraft.
When the hatches between the station and the Soyuz open about 1:40 p.m., the new crew members will join NASA astronauts Loral O’Hara, Matthew Dominick, Mike Barratt, and Jeanette Epps, as well as Roscosmos cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko, Nikolai Chub, and Alexander Grebenkin, already living and working aboard the space station.
Novitskiy and Vasilevskaya will be aboard the station for 12 days before providing the ride home for O’Hara on Saturday, April 6, aboard Soyuz MS-24 for a parachute-assisted landing on the steppe of Kazakhstan.
Dyson will spend six months aboard the station as an Expedition 70 and 71 flight engineer, returning to Earth in September with Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub of Roscosmos, who will complete a year-long mission on the laboratory.
It will be the third spaceflight for Dyson, the fourth for Novitskiy, and the first for Vasilevskaya.
Source: NASA
Photo: NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson, Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy, and spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya of Belarus pose for a portrait at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center on November 2, 2023. Credits: GCTC/Andrey Shelepin.
Photo: Expedition 71 Soyuz Rollout. The Soyuz rocket is seen shortly after being rolled out to the launch pad at Site 31 on Monday, March 18, 2024, at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Expedition 71 NASA astronaut Tracy Dyson, Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy, and Belarus spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya are scheduled to launch aboard their Soyuz MS-25 spacecraft on March 21. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2024 — Three crew members will blast off on Thursday, March 21, to support Expedition 70 aboard the International Space Station. NASA will provide complete launch and crew arrival coverage at the microgravity laboratory.
NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson, Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Novitskiy, and spaceflight participant Marina Vasilevskaya of Belarus will lift off on the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-25 spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 9:21 a.m. EDT.
Dyson, Novitskiy, and Vasilevskaya will journey to the station on a two-orbit, three-hour trajectory, resulting in docking to the station’s Prichal module at 12:39 p.m.
Shortly after, hatches between the station and the Soyuz will open, and the new crew members will connect with NASA astronauts Loral O’Hara, Matthew Dominick, Mike Barratt, and Jeanette Epps, as well as Roscosmos cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko, Nikolai Chub, and Alexander Grebenkin, already living and working aboard the space station.
Dyson will spend six months aboard the station as an Expedition 70 and 71 flight engineer, returning to Earth in September with Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub of Roscosmos, who will complete a year-long mission on the laboratory.
Novitskiy and Vasilevskaya will be aboard the station for 12 days, providing the ride home for O’Hara on Tuesday, April 2, aboard Soyuz MS-24 for a parachute-assisted landing on the steppe of Kazakhstan. O’Hara will have spent 200 days in space when she returns.
It will be the third spaceflight for Dyson, the fourth for Novitskiy, and the first for Vasilevskaya.
Source: NASA
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:13 AM | View the original post
March 22, 2024
Tangier, Morocco, will be the Global Host City for International Jazz Day in 2024.
— Worldwide Celebration on April 30, 2024
Photos: International Jazz Day 2024 Posters from various countries.
PARIS and WASHINGTON, March 19, 2024 — More than 190 countries will celebrate the upcoming edition of International Jazz Day on April 30, 2024. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock announced that Tangier, Morocco, will be the Global Host of the event. The city will serve as the anchor for all International Jazz Day programs taking place around the world.
“Tangier’s designation marks the first time a city on the African continent will host International Jazz Day, the world’s largest and most significant celebration of jazz,” said Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Culture of Morocco and the City of Tangier, a four-day celebration will take place from April 27-30, highlighting the city’s jazz heritage and promoting cultural and artistic ties between people in Morocco, Europe, and Africa. The celebration will include a series of education programs with events for students of all ages, a special presentation showcasing the significance of Morocco’s Gnawa music and its connection with jazz, and conversations about the history of jazz and its impact on Tangier. The event will culminate with an All-Star Global Concert at the Palace of Arts and Culture of Tangier, broadcast worldwide on YouTube, Facebook, the United Nations, and UNESCO, reaching millions of viewers.
Music enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling event in Tangier featuring legendary figures of jazz, blues, and more. This event will also be broadcast worldwide. Led by the iconic pianist Herbie Hancock and Musical Director John Beasley from the USA, the All-Star Global Concert will showcase performances by an international lineup of artists from all corners of the globe, including the master Gnawa musician Abdellah El Gourd from Morocco. Other confirmed artists include Claudia Acuña from Chile, Ambrose Akinmusire from the USA, Lakecia Benjamin from the USA, Richard Bona from Cameroon, Dee Dee Bridgewater from the USA, Moreira Chonguiça from Mozambique, Shemekia Copeland from the USA, Kurt Elling from the USA, Antonio Faraò from Italy, Melody Gardot from the USA, Jazzmeia Horn from the USA, JK Kim from the Republic of Korea, Magnus Lindgren from Sweden, Romero Lubambo from Brazil, Marcus Miller from the USA, Yasushi Nakamura from Japan, Tarek Yamani from Lebanon, and many more artists to be announced soon.
Tangier is a city located at the junction of Europe and Africa and is known for its diverse cultural expressions. Jazz has a long and rich history in Tangier, with many world-renowned jazz artists such as Josephine Baker, Ornette Coleman, Herbie Mann, and Archie Shepp having performed and spent time in the city. For many years, jazz master Randy Weston lived in Tangier, where he collaborated with Gnawa master Abdellah El Gourd to explore the roots of jazz and African music. Morocco’s traditional Gnawa music and jazz fusion, known as Gnawa-jazz, is widely appreciated across Morocco and beyond.
The International Jazz Day was established by UNESCO in 2011 and later recognized by the United Nations General Assembly. It is celebrated annually on April 30 and brings together countries and communities worldwide. The celebration highlights jazz’s power in promoting peace, facilitating dialogues among cultures, encouraging diversity, and respecting human dignity.
International Jazz Day has evolved into a worldwide movement that annually reaches over 2 billion people on all continents. The movement achieves this through education programs, performances, community outreach, radio, television, streaming services, and electronic, print, and social media. The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz is the primary nonprofit organization responsible for annually planning, promoting, and organizing International Jazz Day.
Source: Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:19 AM | View the original post
UGC India asks Universities to prioritize the well-being of New Mothers within their Community and comply with National Minimum Standards for Creches.
New Delhi, India, March 20, 2024— The University Grants Commission (UGC) has informed the Vice-Chancellors of all Universities that the “Maternity Benefit Act, 2017” requires that all establishments with fifty or more employees provide a creche facility within a prescribed distance. The creche facility can be provided separately or along with shared facilities. Further, the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) has developed the National Guidelines for Setting Up and Running Creches under the “Maternity Benefit Act 2017.”
The UGC has asked all Higher Educational Institutions to adhere to the National Minimum Standards and Protocol for Creches (Operation and Management) outlined by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD). The UGC has also urged the Universities to inform their affiliated colleges of this requirement and ensure compliance.
• Universities and colleges must prioritize the well-being of their staff and students, focusing on new mothers within their community. Academic institutions are responsible for providing adequate support and resources for new mothers to help them balance their educational and family commitments.
Source: UGC
|GlobalGiants.Com|
• To support the academic aspirations of women, working parents, scholars, and students, the University Grants Commission (UGC) introduced a scheme a few years ago to provide daycare facilities for infants at universities on a payment basis. This initiative was a valuable resource for University employees and students away during the day. It gave them peace of mind that their infants were cared for in a safe and reliable environment. The scheme was also available to male employees, scholars, and students whose wives were working elsewhere. The UGC has discontinued this scheme.
Photo: The format for submitting a proposal for a daycare center (for information only). Eligible universities could submit an application outlining their need for the facility. Once accepted, the UGC released the permissible amount. This scheme is no longer available.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 2:34 AM | View the original post
March 21, 2024
Association of Indian Universities and EdifyOnline select Noodle's tech to power India's University Clusters Initiative.
— Clusters of higher education institutions will use the Noodle Learning Platform, which empowers universities to deliver online course offerings through a fully customizable platform.
NEW YORK, March 20, 2024 — The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) located in New Delhi, India, and Edify Online Corp (EdifyOnline) based in Birmingham, USA, have partnered with Noodle (Noodle), a technology company in New York, USA, to develop a shared ecosystem of lectures by global academic leaders and professors. This program will benefit the AIU’s 992 member universities, which serve over 5 million students. The Noodle Learning Platform (NLP) will be provided by Noodle, allowing universities to offer online courses through a fully customizable, LMS-agnostic all-in-one platform. The partners will work together to address the challenges, successes, and opportunities of implementing the program. Industry experts will review and publish the results to benefit all AIU members.
“With the help of EdifyOnline and Noodle’s NLP, AIU is preparing to enable a ‘shared HEIs ecosystem’ for AIU member universities to provide highly qualified and highly skilled international academic leaders at scalable and sustainable costs, as well as build bridges for Indian faculty to do the same for international HEIs in future,” said Secretary General of the AIU, Dr. Pankaj (Mrs.) Mittal.
Anil P. Agarwal, Co-Founder of EdifyOnline, believes that the Shared HEIs ecosystem is the future of higher education. It improves education standards and opportunities for all academic faculties, including those in India. Their mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to be enlightened, which supports the central theme of the Indian National Education Policy 2020. Agarwal is confident that their collaborative efforts with Noodle, AIU, and AIU member HEIs are timely, affordable, and synergistic.
“Our platform helps universities offer low-cost, high-quality education globally. Noodle empowers universities to transform the world with accessible and innovative education,” said John Katzman, Noodle’s CEO.
Dr. Amarendra Pani, the Joint Director and Director of the Research Division of AIU believes that the “University Clusters Pilot Study” in India will provide international exposure to students. The study will enable an ecosystem of shared lectures using international talent, triggering innovative ideas and processes leading to advanced research in higher education. He added that he and his research staff are looking forward to working with all stakeholders, including AIU member universities, to ensure the success of this pioneering initiative.
The Association of Indian Universities, founded in 1925, is India’s leading representative body for universities and higher education institutions. AIU membership comprises all types of universities, including conventional universities, open universities, deemed-to-be universities, state universities, central universities, private universities, and institutes of national importance. As of now, there are 992 university members of the AIU.
EdifyOnline provides a platform, EdifyProfessional®, where Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can hire independent contractors for various academic roles such as instructors, guest lecturers, course content creators, professional development, and other specialized areas. The platform showcases highly qualified subject experts from around the globe. It is ideal for HEIs struggling with a lack of competent academic talent or seeking to expand their international competencies.
Noodle is a tech-enabled partner for higher education. As a Certified B Corporation, it helps academic institutions grow their online enrollments and build infrastructure. Noodle offers strategic consulting, customized services, and technology integration to make partners more efficient and responsive.
Source: Noodle
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 6:19 AM | View the original post
March 18, 2024
U.S. Postal Service issues Garden Delights Stamps, celebrating Hummingbirds' vital role in Spring and Summer Gardens
STRONGSVILLE, Ohio, March 18, 2024 — The United States Postal Service released a collection of four stamps called “Garden Delights.” These stamps celebrate the beautiful flora of America’s spring and summer gardens and acknowledge the crucial role of hummingbirds in pollination. Each stamp features a ruby-throated hummingbird gracefully hovering next to a zinnia, cigar flower, spotted touch-me-not, or sunflower. The ceremony to dedicate these stamps was held today in Strongsville.
The sight of spring flowers blooming is a delight for everyone, whether you’re an avid gardener or not. Gardens provide joy, food, and a sense of purpose to those who tend them and serve as a haven for birds, plants, and animals to find refuge and the necessary resources to survive.
No garden is complete without the buzzes, hums, and musical melodies of nature’s wildlife. Hummingbirds add charm to summer gardens with their unique features and small size.
Hummingbirds are exclusively found in the Americas, with around 16 species native to the United States. Among the smallest hummingbirds are the Ruby-throated ones, weighing about the same as a penny and measuring 3.5 inches long. These birds are the only hummingbirds found in the gardens of the eastern and central parts of the United States.
Hummingbirds are unique birds and remarkable pollinators. They can pollinate more than 7,000 flowering plants, which rely on them to collect and deliver the pollen necessary to produce fruit and seeds.
Greg Breeding used existing photographs by wildlife photographer Ben King to design the USPS stamps.
Source: U.S. Postal Service
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 3:21 PM | View the original post
March 17, 2024
Lakme Fashion Week March 2024, in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI)
Photos: Sara Ali Khan. Models represent various designers. Lakme Fashion Week presented leading designers in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI). March 13-17, 2024. Images provided by FDCI/Lakme Fashion Week.
Mumbai, March 17, 2024 — Lakme Fashion Week, India’s premier fashion and lifestyle event, has been redefining fashion for over 25 years.
Over five days, over 100 designers, brands, and industry stakeholders showcase their work, making Lakmé Fashion Week the go-to destination for emerging talent, sustainability, and fashion businesses.
This season, Lakme Fashion Week and FDCI have combined their forces to present a joint schedule comprising the best curation and designers from Delhi, Mumbai, and across India.
Source: Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) / Lakme Fashion Week.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Check out the coolest vibrant looks and comfortable styles with @SkechersIndia @ILoveLakme @fdciofficial #reliancebrandsltd @R1SEWorldwide #UltimateFaceDefinition#SkechersAtLakmeFashionWeekxFDCl#Lakm?FashionWeekxFDCI #LFWxFDCI#Lakm?FashionWeek #LFW #FDCI #SkechersIndia pic.twitter.com/sKCqGXayLD
— Lakmé Fashion Week (@LakmeFashionWk) March 17, 2024
#janhvikapoor for KALKI on Day 5.@kalkifashion @ILoveLakme @fdciofficial #reliancebrandsltd @R1SEWorldwide #UltimateFaceDefinition#KalkiAtLakmeFashionWeekxFDCl#LakmeFashionWeekxFDCI #LFWxFDCI#Lakm?FashionWeek #LFW #FDCI#KALKIpresentsINARA #KALKIInara #SpringSummer24 pic.twitter.com/JeFScluLg8
— Lakmé Fashion Week (@LakmeFashionWk) March 17, 2024
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:13 AM | View the original post
March 15, 2024
Paris 2024 is on track to Welcome the World and deliver an Exceptional Games Vision.
Photos: Paris 2024 is on track to Welcome the World and deliver an Exceptional Games Vision. Images provided by and copyright © IOC Media Relations.
Paris, March 15, 2024 — The Organising Committee of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is working hard to ensure everything is in place for the upcoming event. The Coordination Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that the preparations are on track to welcome the Olympic Movement to France. The Commission had its final meeting before the Games, announcing that the Olympic Games Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony would start at 7:30 pm local time (CEST) on July 26.
The Coordination Commission Chair, Pierre-Olivier Beckers-Vieujant, confirmed that Paris 2024 is on track to deliver its exceptional Games vision. The Organising Committee is focused on delivering spectacular, impactful, and sustainable Games with the continued support of stakeholders. The Olympic Torch Relay begins in just over a month and will mark a key milestone in the Organising Committee’s operational activities. It will also amplify engagement and excitement as the Games draw nearer.
Beckers-Vieujant added that Paris 2024 sets an exemplary model for future Games. The engagement initiatives and new approaches align with the reforms of the Olympic Agenda 2020 that make the Games younger, more urban, more sustainable, and more inclusive. These Games will also be the first-ever Olympic Games with gender parity, with the same number of places allocated to female and male athletes by the IOC.
Paris 2024 President Tony Estanguet stressed the importance of remaining focused and humble as the Olympic flame approaches France in just 60 days. The team met with the IOC Coordination Commission for three days to review crucial details. Despite challenges over the past seven years, the team remains confident and proud of their ambition.
The Olympic Games Paris 2024 will begin on July 26 and continue until August 11.
Source: IOC Media Relations
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 1:13 PM | View the original post
March 14, 2024
Oppenheimer wins Best Actor, Best Film, and Best Director at the 2024 Oscars.
Photo: Takashi Yamazaki poses with the Oscar for Visual Effects during the live A.B.C. telecast of the 96th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S., Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Jennifer Lame poses backstage with the Oscar for Film Editing during the live ABC telecast of the 96th Oscars at Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S, Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Robert Downey, Jr. poses backstage with the Oscar for Actor in a Supporting Role during the live A.B.C. telecast of the 96th Oscars at Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Michael Baker / A.M.P.A.S., Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: Eva Longoria arrives on the red carpet of the 96th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Mke Baker / A.M.P.A.S., Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
Photo: America Ferrera arrives on the red carpet of the 96th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 10, 2024. Image provided by Kyusung Gong / A.M.P.A.S., Copyright ©A.M.P.A.S.
LOS ANGELES, CA, March 11, 2024 - The 96th Academy Awards ceremony, also known as the Oscars 2024, occurred on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. It was broadcast live on A.B.C. and in over 200 countries worldwide.
Oppenheimer, a biographical thriller directed by Christopher Nolan, was the big night winner, taking home seven awards, including Best Picture. Nolan and actors Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr earned awards for Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actor, respectively. The event ended with a flourish at the Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles.
— The Full List of Oscar Winners 2024 —
• ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
WINNER
CILLIAN MURPHY
Oppenheimer
NOMINEES
BRADLEY COOPER
Maestro
COLMAN DOMINGO
Rustin
PAUL GIAMATTI
The Holdovers
JEFFREY WRIGHT
American Fiction
• ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
WINNER
ROBERT DOWNEY JR.
Oppenheimer
NOMINEES
STERLING K. BROWN
American Fiction
ROBERT DE NIRO
Killers of the Flower Moon
RYAN GOSLING
Barbie
MARK RUFFALO
Poor Things
• ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
WINNER
EMMA STONE
Poor Things
NOMINEES
ANNETTE BENING
Nyad
LILY GLADSTONE
Killers of the Flower Moon
SANDRA HÜLLER
Anatomy of a Fall
CAREY MULLIGAN
Maestro
• ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
WINNER
DA’VINE JOY RANDOLPH
The Holdovers
NOMINEES
EMILY BLUNT
Oppenheimer
DANIELLE BROOKS
The Color Purple
AMERICA FERRERA
Barbie
JODIE FOSTER
Nyad
• ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
WINNER
THE BOY AND THE HERON
Hayao Miyazaki and Toshio Suzuki
NOMINEES
ELEMENTAL
Peter Sohn and Denise Ream
NIMONA
Nick Bruno, Troy Quane, Karen Ryan, and Julie Zackary
ROBOT DREAMS
Pablo Berger, Ibon Cormenzana, Ignasi Estapé and Sandra Tapia Díaz
SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE
Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller and Amy Pascal
• CINEMATOGRAPHY
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Hoyte van Hoytema
NOMINEES
EL CONDE
Edward Lachman
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Rodrigo Prieto
MAESTRO
Matthew Libatique
POOR THINGS
Robbie Ryan
• COSTUME DESIGN
WINNER
POOR THINGS
Holly Waddington
NOMINEES
BARBIE
Jacqueline Durran
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Jacqueline West
NAPOLEON
Janty Yates and Dave Crossman
OPPENHEIMER
Ellen Mirojnick
• DIRECTING
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Christopher Nolan
NOMINEES
ANATOMY OF A FALL
Justine Triet
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Martin Scorsese
POOR THINGS
Yorgos Lanthimos
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
Jonathan Glazer
• DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
WINNER
20 DAYS IN MARIUPOL
Mstyslav Chernov, Michelle Mizner, and Raney Aronson-Rath
NOMINEES
BOBI WINE: THE PEOPLE’S PRESIDENT
Moses Bwayo, Christopher Sharp, and John Battsek
THE ETERNAL MEMORY
Maite Alberdi
FOUR DAUGHTERS
Kaouther Ben Hania and Nadim Cheikhrouha
TO KILL A TIGER
Nisha Pahuja, Cornelia Principe and David Oppenheim
• DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM
WINNER
THE LAST REPAIR SHOP
Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers
NOMINEES
THE ABCS OF BOOK BANNING
Sheila Nevins and Trish Adlesic
THE BARBER OF LITTLE ROCK
John Hoffman and Christine Turner
ISLAND IN BETWEEN
S. Leo Chiang and Jean Tsien
NAI NAI & WAI PO
Sean Wang and Sam Davis
• FILM EDITING
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Jennifer Lame
NOMINEES
ANATOMY OF A FALL
Laurent Sénéchal
THE HOLDOVERS
Kevin Tent
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Thelma Schoonmaker
POOR THINGS
Yorgos Mavropsaridis
• INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM
WINNER
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
United Kingdom
NOMINEES
IO CAPITANO
Italy
PERFECT DAYS
Japan
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW
Spain
THE TEACHERS’ LOUNGE
Germany
• MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING
WINNER
POOR THINGS
Nadia Stacey, Mark Coulier, and Josh Weston
NOMINEES
GOLDA
Karen Hartley Thomas, Suzi Battersby, and Ashra Kelly-Blue
MAESTRO
Kazu Hiro, Kay Georgiou, and Lori McCoy-Bell
OPPENHEIMER
Luisa Abel
SOCIETY OF THE SNOW
Ana López-Puigcerver, David Martí and Montse Ribé
• MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Ludwig Göransson
NOMINEES
AMERICAN FICTION
Laura Karpman
INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY
John Williams
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Robbie Robertson
POOR THINGS
Jerskin Fendrix
• MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
WINNER
WHAT WAS I MADE FOR?
from Barbie; Music and Lyric by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell
NOMINEES
THE FIRE INSIDE
from Flamin’ Hot; Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
I’M JUST KEN
from Barbie; Music and Lyric by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt
IT NEVER WENT AWAY
from American Symphony; Music and Lyric by Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson
WAHZHAZHE (A SONG FOR MY PEOPLE)
from Killers of the Flower Moon; Music and Lyric by Scott George
• BEST PICTURE
WINNER
OPPENHEIMER
Emma Thomas, Charles Roven, and Christopher Nolan, Producers
NOMINEES
AMERICAN FICTION
Ben LeClair, Nikos Karamigios, Cord Jefferson, and Jermaine Johnson, Producers
ANATOMY OF A FALL
Marie-Ange Luciani and David Thion, Producers
BARBIE
David Heyman, Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Robbie Brenner, Producers
THE HOLDOVERS
Mark Johnson, Producer
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Dan Friedkin, Bradley Thomas, Martin Scorsese and Daniel Lupi, Producers
MAESTRO
Bradley Cooper, Steven Spielberg, Fred Berner, Amy Durning and Kristie Macosko Krieger, Producers
PAST LIVES
David Hinojosa, Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler, Producers
POOR THINGS
Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone, Producers
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
James Wilson, Producer
• PRODUCTION DESIGN
WINNER
POOR THINGS
Production Design: James Price and Shona Heath; Set Decoration: Zsuzsa Mihalek
NOMINEES
BARBIE
Production Design: Sarah Greenwood; Set Decoration: Katie Spencer
KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON
Production Design: Jack Fisk; Set Decoration: Adam Willis
NAPOLEON
Production Design: Arthur Max; Set Decoration: Elli Griff
OPPENHEIMER
Production Design: Ruth De Jong; Set Decoration: Claire Kaufman
• ANIMATED SHORT FILM
WINNER
WAR IS OVER! INSPIRED BY THE MUSIC OF JOHN & Y.O.K.O.
Dave Mullins and Brad Booker
NOMINEES
LETTER TO A PIG
Tal Kantor and Amit R. Gicelter
NINETY-FIVE SENSES
Jerusha Hess and Jared Hess
OUR UNIFORM
Yegane Moghaddam
PACHYDERME
Stéphanie Clément and Marc Rius
• LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM
WINNER
THE WONDERFUL STORY OF HENRY SUGAR
Wes Anderson and Steven Rales
NOMINEES
THE AFTER
Misan Harriman and Nicky Bentham
INVINCIBLE
Vincent René-Lortie and Samuel Caron
KNIGHT OF FORTUNE
Lasse Lyskjær Noer and Christian Norlyk
R.E.D., WHITE AND BLUE
Nazrin Choudhury and Sara McFarlane
• SOUND
WINNER
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
Tarn Willers and Johnnie Burn
NOMINEES
THE CREATOR
Ian Voigt, Erik Aadahl, Ethan Van der Ryn, Tom Ozanich and Dean Zupancic
MAESTRO
Steven A. Morrow, Richard King, Jason Ruder, Tom Ozanich, and Dean Zupancic
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - DEAD RECKONING PART ONE
Chris Munro, James H. Mather, Chris Burdon, and Mark Taylor
OPPENHEIMER
Willie Burton, Richard King, Gary A. Rizzo, and Kevin O’Connell
• VISUAL EFFECTS
WINNER
GODZILLA MINUS ONE
Takashi Yamazaki, Kiyoko Shibuya, Masaki Takahashi and Tatsuji Nojima
NOMINEES
THE CREATOR
Jay Cooper, Ian Comley, Andrew Roberts, and Neil Corbould
GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3
Stephane Ceretti, Alexis Wajsbrot, Guy Williams, and Theo Bialek
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - DEAD RECKONING PART ONE
Alex Wuttke, Simone Coco, Jeff Sutherland, and Neil Corbould
NAPOLEON
Charley Henley, Luc-Ewen Martin-Fenouillet, Simone Coco, and Neil Corbould
• WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY)
WINNER
AMERICAN FICTION
Written for the screen by Cord Jefferson
NOMINEES
BARBIE
Written by Greta Gerwig & Noah Baumbach
OPPENHEIMER
Written for the screen by Christopher Nolan
POOR THINGS
Screenplay by Tony McNamara
THE ZONE OF INTEREST
Written by Jonathan Glazer
• WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)
WINNER
ANATOMY OF A FALL
Screenplay - Justine Triet and Arthur Harari
NOMINEES
THE HOLDOVERS
Written by David Hemingson
MAESTRO
Written by Bradley Cooper & Josh Singer
MAY DECEMBER
Screenplay by Samy Burch; Story by Samy Burch & Alex Mechanik
PAST LIVES
Written by Celine Song
Source: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
— The Academy snubbed India’s official International Feature Film entry for the 2024 Oscars: “2018: Everyone is a Hero.”
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:15 PM | View the original post
Coca-Cola introduces 'Coca-Cola Foodmarks' to India, incorporating Raj Kapoor's legacy.
Photo: Coca-Cola launches Foodmarks with Bollywood icons Karisma Kapoor and Janhvi Kapoor. Image provided by Coca-Cola India.
New Delhi, India, March 14, 2024 — Coca-Cola India is introducing Coca-Cola Foodmarks in India as part of its global campaign, ‘A Recipe for Magic.’ This campaign celebrates the unique culinary experiences around the world that Coca-Cola enhances. Coca-Cola Foodmarks features global ‘food landmarks,’ destinations, and experiences that are ideal when you have the perfect moment, a delicious meal, and an ice-cold Coca-Cola.
The Coca-Cola Company made the global rollout of this product launch in India at the Embassy restaurant in the iconic Connaught Place in Delhi. The event was nostalgic, reminiscent of Hindi Cinema’s pivotal era. Bollywood celebrities Janhvi Kapoor and Karisma Kapoor attended the event, making it even more special. The event’s highlight was a timeless photograph featuring two icons, Raj Kapoor and a bottle of Coke, both captured in one frame.
The Coca-Cola Foodmarks experience transported the guests back to the golden age of Bollywood in the 1950s, evoking the atmosphere of Raj Kapoor’s on-set meal moments. The immersive film set was complemented by interactive moments using cutting-edge A.I. technology, taking guests through Bollywood. The decor, which included stardom posters and a musical stairway, added to the ambiance, while extraordinary photo backdrops provided the perfect photo opportunities. The evening was made even more enchanting by the arrival of the Kapoor stars in vintage cars, which added to the overall charm of the event. Local influencers and dignitaries also attended to experience the magic of Coca-Cola Foodmarks.
“We are excited to announce the launch of Coca-Cola Foodmarks in India, a country with a rich culinary heritage and vibrant food culture,” said Kaushik Prasad, Senior Director of Marketing at Coca-Cola INSWA. “Coca-Cola Foodmarks embodies the essence of Coca-Cola, which is to spread the real magic of shared moments, cultural nuances, and culinary excellence. We are thrilled to offer this experience to our patrons, allowing them to savor unique flavors while creating lasting memories.”
As part of the campaign, Coca-Cola will debut immersive, in-person experiences worldwide, showcasing unique experiences, each inspired by an iconic cultural moment.
Coca-Cola is a renowned beverage company in India that offers consumers a diverse range of high-quality and refreshing drink options. The company is committed to providing “Beverages For Life” and has an extensive portfolio of products that includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice, and dairy-based beverages. Coca-Cola’s beverage range in India comprises Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Charged by Thums Up, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Maaza, Minute Maid juices, and juice-based beverages. The company also offers hydration beverages such as Limca Sportz, Smartwater, Kinley, Dasani, Bonaqua packaged drinking water, and Kinley Club Soda. Schweppes range and Smartwater are premium products. In addition, the company provides Costa Coffee and Honest Tea, an organic green tea-based beverage, among its coffee and tea offerings. Coca-Cola is continually revamping its portfolio by reducing sugar in its drinks and introducing innovative products.
Globally, along with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs over 700,000 people worldwide, providing economic opportunities to local communities.
Source: The Coca-Cola Company
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 9:42 AM | View the original post
Panjab University Chandigarh averts its inclusion in the UGC's "Defaulting Universities" list by fully complying with the University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations and duly appointing an Ombudsperson.
UPDATE
MARCH 14, 2024
UGC has published a Public Notice and released an updated list of Defaulting Universities that have still not appointed Ombudspersons in compliance with the University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023.
• Updated List of Defaulting State Universities as of March 12, 2024.
Photo: Gandhi Bhawan, Panjab University Chandigarh (Photo for Representation).
MANDATORY
• Each University must appoint an Ombudsperson to address the grievances of students enrolled in the University and affiliated colleges/institutions.
UNIVERSITY’S PENCHANT FOR HARASSING & VICTIMIZING
• The grievances include non-transparent or unfair evaluation practices and the University’s penchant for harassing and victimizing students.
MUST DISPLAY OMBUDSPERSON DETAILS
• Per the UGC regulations, each University and its affiliated colleges must display the particulars and contact details of the Ombudsperson and students’ grievance redressal committee (SGRC) on their websites and at prominent places on their campuses.
CONSEQUENCES OF NON-COMPLIANCE
• If an institution willfully contravenes these regulations, the UGC will take one or more of the following actions:
Withdrawing declaration of fitness to receive grants under section 12B of the UGC Act.
Withholding any grant allocated to the Institution.
Declaring the Institution ineligible for consideration for any assistance under any of the Commission’s general or special assistance programs.
Declaring the Institution ineligible to offer courses through Online/ODL mode for a specified period.
Withdrawing/withholding/suspending the approval for offering courses through Online/ODL mode.
Informing the general public, including potential candidates for admission, through a notice displayed prominently in suitable media and posted on the Commission’s website, declaring that the Institution does not possess the minimum standards for redressal of grievances.
Recommending the State Government to take necessary and appropriate action if a University is established or incorporated under a State Act.
New Delhi, India, January 31, 2023 — On April 11, 2023, UGC notified the University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023, in the Official Gazette of India. Following this, the UGC sent a letter to the University Vice-Chancellors asking them to appoint ombudspersons within 30 days.
The UGC again wrote to the Vice-Chancellors of all Universities and asked them to implement the University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023, and appoint Ombudspersons on or before December 31, 2023.
The UGC told the universities that they must comply with the Regulations, and if a university continues to be non-compliant, the UGC will take punitive action against it.
On January 17, 2024, the UGC released a “Public Notice” listing the “Defaulting Universities” that have failed to appoint Ombudspersons.
The list contained the names of more than 200 Universities that defaulted on appointing Ombudspersons per the regulations.
In its January 17, 2024, “Public Notice,” the UGC directed that those universities who appoint Ombudsperson (s) subsequently may communicate it to the UGC so that it may remove their name from the “Defaulters” list.
Meanwhile, Panjab University at Chandigarh has fully complied with the UGC directive on the University Grants Commission (Redressal of Grievances of Students) Regulations, 2023. It has constituted a Student Grievances Redressal Committee (SGRC) and has duly appointed an Ombudsperson.
Thus, it has averted getting branded a “Defaulter” by the UGC. Consequently, the name of Panjab University Chandigarh does not appear on UGC’s “Defaulting Universities” list.
However, per the directives of the UGC, Panjab University and its affiliated colleges must prominently display the contact details of the Student Grievances Redressal Committee (SGRC) and the Ombudsperson on their campuses.
Photo: UGC Public Notice announcing the List of Defaulting Universities that have not appointed Ombudspersons in compliance with the University Grants Commission Redressal of Grievances of Students Regulations, 2023.
Source: UGC
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 5:14 AM | View the original post
March 13, 2024
Google is partnering with the Election Commission of India (ECI) to promote Authoritative News and Prevent the Spread of False Information.
New Delhi, March 13, 2024 — Google has partnered with the Election Commission of India (ECI) to provide trustworthy information and help people easily access important voting information on Google Search and YouTube. The search engine has also implemented measures to prevent the spread of false information and label AI-generated data during the upcoming general elections.
In a blog post published on Tuesday, Google stated that they are working with the ECI to make critical voting information easily accessible on Google Search in both English and Hindi, including details on how to register to vote and how to vote.
Google believes that supporting elections is a crucial part of its responsibility towards its users and the democratic process. As millions of eligible voters in India will cast their votes for the General Election in the coming months, Google said it is committed to supporting the election process by offering high-quality information to voters, safeguarding its platforms from any possible abuse, and helping people navigate AI-generated content.
Here is how Google will be providing support:
Connecting voters to helpful information
Safeguarding its platforms and combating misinformation
Enforcing its policies and using AI models to fight abuse at scale
Providing ongoing transparency on Election Ads
Working with the broader ecosystem to counter misinformation
Helping people navigate AI-generated content
• Industry Collaboration
Google recently became a member of the C2PA coalition, an initiative to provide more transparency and context for people regarding AI-generated content. As part of this effort, Google pledged, alongside other leading tech companies, to prevent the use of deceptive AI-generated imagery and audio or video content during this year’s global elections. A set of commitments called the ‘Tech Accord to Combat Deceptive Use of AI in 2024 Elections’ has been established to deploy technology to counter harmful AI-generated content that may deceive voters.
This initiative continues Google’s work in various countries and regions during elections. Google said it is committed to working with government, industry, and civil society to help voters access authoritative and helpful information online.
Prominent tech companies, including Adobe, Arm, Intel, Microsoft, and Truepic, formed the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) to create open technical standards that can verify the authenticity of digital content on the Internet, working in conjunction with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) that combats traceability issues and misinformation spread to consumers. The CAI comprises media, tech companies, and academics working together to foster the adoption of an open industry standard for content authenticity and provenance.
Source: Google India
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— GlobalGiants.Com is a Member of Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI).
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:13 AM | View the original post
March 10, 2024
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva comments after the first meeting of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors in Brazil.
Photo: The Governor, Reserve Bank of India, addresses the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting. Washington DC. April 12, 2023. (File Photo).
Photo: G20 Meeting in Brazil. G20 Social: Presentation of the priorities of the finance track to civil society. February 8, 2024. Image Credit: Audiovisual G20 Brasil.
Photo: G20 Meeting in Brazil. The first meeting of G20 foreign ministers. February 21, 2024. Image Credit: Audiovisual G20 Brasil.
Washington, DC, March 10, 2024 — After the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ first meeting in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, examined the global economic outlook and highlighted some challenges policymakers face. She also mentioned the IMF’s focus on financial innovations and the importance of sound macroeconomic fundamentals.
Georgieva stated that the global economy’s near-term outlook is improving, which provides an opportunity for G20 policymakers to address medium-term economic challenges. However, there are risks to the downside, such as persistent inflation, financial sector risks, and supply disruptions.
She cautioned policymakers to be careful in 2024 when central banks must decide whether to cut inflation and when government authorities must pursue fiscal consolidation. Georgieva emphasized that structural reforms are necessary for productivity gains, growth improvements, and better living standards. The IMF staff has produced an AI preparedness index for countries that can help inform government efforts to deal with the digital transition.
Georgieva also discussed the IMF’s focus on financial innovations, particularly in three areas:
- Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) can potentially improve the accessibility, stability, and efficiency of domestic and international payments.
- Crypto assets require a comprehensive policy and regulatory response to mitigate the risks of criminal misuse. The IMF supports countries in implementing the G20-endorsed roadmap.
- Cross-border payments and financial market innovations, including tokenization of assets, are of great interest to the IMF. They aim to make existing payment systems work more efficiently and collaborate closely with the World Bank.
The IMF Managing Director stressed that the organization prioritizes sound macroeconomic fundamentals to promote growth and opportunities while acknowledging the detrimental effects of inequality. The IMF also focuses on strengthening individuals and communities by providing social safety nets, paying attention to labor markets and financial inclusion, and setting a minimum level of social spending to safeguard education and healthcare resources. Furthermore, the IMF recognizes the potential benefits of AI while remaining mindful of its potential risks.
Finally, Georgieva appreciated the focus on financing for development and highlighted the IMF’s collaboration with multilateral development banks to have a more significant impact. She also confirmed the IMF’s commitment to addressing debt vulnerabilities through the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable.
Source: IMF
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 7:30 AM | View the original post
March 9, 2024
International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recognized India as a Promising Destination for Investment and a Country full of Opportunities, says Vice President Dhankhar at the Convocation of Panjab University in Chandigarh.
Chandigarh, India, March 07, 2024 — The Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, who is the ex-officio Chancellor of the institution, addressed the 71st Convocation of Panjab University in Chandigarh today.
The Vice President stated that the IMF has recognized India as a bright spot for investment and opportunity. Additionally, the World Economic Forum is optimistic about India’s development and expects it to become a developed nation by 2047.
The Vice-President emphasized the importance of universities in exposing students to new areas of study, such as disruptive technology, and breaking down the silos that prioritize cutthroat competition for government jobs. Shri Dhankhar also highlighted the need for balance in understanding the advantages and disadvantages of competition.
The Vice-President acknowledged that a university’s strength largely depends on its faculty and alumni. Therefore, he appealed to alumni to contribute to the growth of their Alma Mater. He further noted that alumni and corporations play a crucial role in developing educational institutions in developed nations.
He urged corporates to support educational institutions in India to promote innovation, research, and development. According to him, universities should serve as a platform for confronting ideas rather than just being a sanctuary for comfort.
Source: Vice President’s Secretariat
— Ayushmann Khurrana and Neeraj Chopra, Ratna Awardees of the University, were supposed to attend the Convocation as special guests but couldn’t make it.
|GlobalGiants.Com|
— The editor holds IMF Washington DC’s Academic Certificate in Financial Market Analysis.
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:13 PM | View the original post
FEF India Fashion Awards x WION address Sustainability through the Lens of Fashion.
Photo: FEF India Fashion Awards x WION addressed Sustainability through the Lens of Fashion.
MUMBAI, India, March 8, 2024 — The 4th edition of the PEPSI presents the FEF India Fashion Awards (FEF IFA) 2024 x WION, started on March 7, 2024.
On the first day of the two-day event held at St. Regis Hotel in Mumbai, several industry experts came together to have insightful conversations. Celebrities such as Tamannaah Bhatia, an actor, and Masaba Gupta, a fashion designer and actor, added style and glamour to the inaugural day and participated in the ‘Fashion for Good’ sessions.
The event revolved around the ‘Fashion for Good’ theme and featured various sessions and panel discussions. These covered insightful and thought-provoking topics that explored the role of fashion in films and beyond.
Vaghish Pathak, the FEF India Fashion Awards Chairman, stated that “Fashion for good” is not a mere trend but a deliberate pledge to incorporate Sustainability into the essence of style. Fashion should reflect the importance of responsible choices that help improve the lives of small artisans and craftsmen who play a crucial role in preserving our heritage.
During a conversation about the significance of fashion, Tamannaah Bhatia, an actress, emphasized that in the past, people expressed more individuality than they do now. Nowadays, people tend to use fashion as a means of self-expression, which is something that happened to her. She further explained that she has become more confident in her choices and no longer needs to apologize.
Fashion Designer and Actor Masaba Gupta highlighted her brand’s sustainable practices, stating that they make small daily changes to ensure Sustainability. They have implemented a solid system to recycle and utilize waste fabric by creating scarves, masks, and scrunchies.
Fashion entrepreneurs showcased their business ideas and took advantage of the opportunity to transform their dreams into reality.
The FEF India Fashion Awards is a highly regarded platform in Asia that recognizes, salutes, and showcases the creativity and innovation of Indian fashion members to a global audience. The organization celebrates and honors fashion designers, models, photographers, artisans, and others whose outstanding contributions take the Indian fashion industry to greater heights.
Source: FEF India Fashion Awards
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 12:44 PM | View the original post
March 5, 2024
Applications are Open for Dual Degree with Shoolini & University of Melbourne.
Photo: The University of Melbourne has been ranked as the 14th best university in the world. Image provided by the University of Melbourne.
SOLAN, India, March 4, 2024 — Shoolini University has collaborated with the esteemed University of Melbourne to provide Indian students with international education opportunities. The admission process for the dual degree Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours) program is currently in progress, and admissions will commence at Shoolini University on April 1.
Shoolini University has been recognized as India’s top-ranked private university by the QS and the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings. Similarly, QS has ranked the University of Melbourne as the number one university in Australia in its World University Rankings. The partnership between these two universities has set new academic excellence and innovation standards, especially considering that the University of Melbourne has achieved the prestigious 14th position globally.
Last year, two universities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide cutting-edge education to Indian students. This young talent pool will receive instruction and guidance from top-class faculty for the first two years of their education at Shoolini University and then continue their studies for the same period at the University of Melbourne.
The dual degree program begins with the Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours) and offers students a world-class curriculum, opening doors to an exceptional global education experience. Indian students will enjoy the unique advantage of pursuing undergraduate science studies at Shoolini and the University of Melbourne.
The transformative journey starts with two years of study at Shoolini University and the remaining two years at Melbourne. Students can choose from various multidisciplinary majors in their third and fourth years, including Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cell and Development Biology, Chemistry, Climate and Weather, Ecosystem Science, Food Science, Geography, Physics, and Plant Science.
Shoolini Vice-Chancellor Professor Atul Khosla has expressed excitement about the partnership with the University of Melbourne. He said they are delighted to offer their outstanding undergraduate students from India more opportunities to study abroad. This collaboration highlights the global reputation of Shoolini University as a top-notch institution and broadens its students’ horizons.
The Dean of Science at the University of Melbourne, Prof Moira O’Bryan, expressed her delight in offering an international education to Shoolini students. She believes that this education will help prepare them for our globally connected world. The collaboration between the two universities will provide practical experience and a world-class education to many high-achieving Indian students to help them achieve their goals. The Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours) dual degree program is now available, and the University of Melbourne is excited to welcome Indian students into the program.
Eligible students can extend their studies and complete a graduate program at the University of Melbourne, such as a Master of Science, with credit from their Advanced Honours program. It can reduce the study period for the additional qualification by up to a year, which is a great advantage. Furthermore, students who meet the Australian government criteria can apply for post-study work rights upon completing their studies in Australia.
The program’s curriculum reflects the rigorous standards the University of Melbourne upholds. Moreover, Shoolini University faculty members will visit Melbourne for practical training, fostering a more significant knowledge exchange between the two institutions.
Shoolini University and the University of Melbourne are paving the way for Indian students to access exceptional global education, fostering a new generation of highly skilled professionals prepared to thrive in today’s interconnected world.
According to Avnee Khosla, the Director of Admissions at Shoolini, only 30 seats will be available for dual degree admissions this year. It is a rare and excellent opportunity for students to pursue a high-quality pathway degree program from India to the highly-ranked University of Melbourne. Students will spend two years following the cutting-edge University of Melbourne curriculum at the Shoolini campus and continue their studies in Australia.
Associate Prof Rozy Dhanta, Deputy Director of International Affairs at Shoolini, said, “Collaboration with the University of Melbourne is not just about building partnerships but creating bridges of knowledge exchange that transcend borders, enriching both our institutions and the global community.”
Shoolini Research Professor Saurabh Kulshrestha, who has studied at premier institutions such as NIH, USA, and Max Planck, Germany, said that the dual degree program would provide ample opportunities for students who enroll.
Source: Shoolini University
|GlobalGiants.Com|
Edited & Posted by the Editor | 10:08 AM | View the original post
