ITV

Category: Press Release

  • HistoryTV18 to premiere ‘India: Marvels & Mysteries’ on October 17

    HistoryTV18 to premiere ‘India: Marvels & Mysteries’ on October 17

    MUMBAI: In a new five-part original series, HistoryTV18 brings viewers remarkable stories of ancient and medieval India. The fifteen stories take the viewer back in time, to some of India’s unique historical locations, many of which are designated UNESCO world heritage sites. The series spotlights fascinating aspects, little known facts, places and people. It also lifts the veil on a selection of unexplained mysteries and unsolved riddles that are part of India’s awe-inspiring heritage. 

    The gripping episodes use lavish dramatic recreations, factual rigour and top-end production values to provide glimpses of lost civilisations, great empires, powerful dynasties and amazing historical figures. The series traverses a vast geographic expanse, from remote Himalayan heights, through wild central India to the ancient South Indian peninsula. Its timeline stretches back millennia, beyond recorded history and into the mists of the Stone Age.

    ‘India: Marvels & Mysteries’ is an immersive and transportive experience with genre-leading storytelling at its heart. It tells stories that thrill, surprise and move the audience, in a quest to unearth the treasures and rediscover the wonders of India’s incredible past. It goes where most storytellers have not, in search of compelling narratives and new perspectives. It raises unasked questions in search of answers that have eluded generations. For in seemingly simple questions, lie the beginnings of a true understanding of our past. Cameras go behind glorious exteriors and beneath the spectacular halls of iconic landmarks, to reveal secrets, lost legends and whispered tales. Scholars and experts provide insights that are set to carefully craft the scenes that play out on screen.

    Each episode comprises compelling stories that stay true to a theme. Each story explores a subject based on a historical finding, site or structure that has more to it than meets the eye. In one story, HistoryTV18’s crew filmed the unexplained markings inside the Dar Ki Chattan cave in Central India. One of the world’s oldest settlements, perhaps from a time before Homo Sapiens walked the Earth, it was first discovered by a local school headmaster. The find has led some experts to re-evaluate the origins of early humans in the subcontinent. In another story, the show explores the mystery suHistoryTV18rrounding Mughal Empress Mumtaz Mahal’s original burial site, where she was interred initially, decades before the Taj Mahal was built.  Viewers will time-travel to the dense forests of Sarnath, where the Buddha first spoke of Dhamma. They will follow a medieval caravan to the highest fortress on Earth. They will discover how a celebrated Indian archaeologist turned a gigantic jigsaw puzzle of shattered stones, into a spectacular temple complex, with help from the dreaded dacoits of Chambal. The series is packed with astonishing facts and anecdotes. It’s a celebration of the marvels of antiquity that have stood the test of time and still take your breath away. It is a showcase of India’s riches and her people’s exceptional ingenuity, innovation and artistry through the ages.

    ‘India: Marvels & Mysteries’, is ground-breaking factual entertainment and provides a new vantage point to view the stories of India, from its long, often tumultuous but rich history.

    Avinash Kaul, MD A+E Networks | TV18 and CEO Network18 said, “At HistoryTV18, we've always delivered best-in-class factual content and compelling stories that are engaging and relevant for our viewers. ‘India: Marvels & Mysteries’ is truly a path-breaking series that showcases ancient Indian wisdom, reveals secrets behind advanced technologies long lost, and celebrates the glories of the incredible history of India.”

  • BIG FM, Dentsu Webchutney’s ‘BIG Mahalaya’ Campaign gets Social Media talking this Durga Puja

    BIG FM, Dentsu Webchutney’s ‘BIG Mahalaya’ Campaign gets Social Media talking this Durga Puja

    MUMBAI: For 87 years, Bengalis all over India have been tuning into Mahisasur Mardini – a radio program in the voice of the legend, Birendra Krishna Bhadra. And with this, for 87 years, Bengalis have been waking up to Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s Mahalaya – a chant that summons the beginning of Durga Puja and is sung in praise of the Goddess.

    This tradition has continued for decades and many artists have attempted to create a new rendition of this classic. Yet, it was only during this Durga Puja that people, for the first time in decades, experienced and listened to the ever-mandatory Mahalaya like never before – a Mahalaya that was not only different in style but also different in ‘Dhun’ (tune).

    Directed and recited by Swagatalakshmi Dasgupta, many influential artists such as Srabani Sen, Rupankar Bagchi, Manomay Bhattacharya, Rishi-Tirtha and Sidhu Ray came on board to contribute their voice for the BIG Mahalaya. This new Mahalaya was aired on Big FM at 4 AM on September 28. The program resonated with the devotees as it ushered a wave of transformed devotion for the Goddess through the voice of a powerful united energy.

    The campaign, conceptualized by Dentsu Webchutney in collaboration with BIG FM, was an attempt to gift Kolkata a new version of their beloved Mahalaya with the intent to encourage inclusiveness. The idea wasn’t to strike a comparison with the masterpiece but to create a rendition which would allow Big FM to put forward an approach with equal opportunities for men and women alike. Consequently, the aim was not to change an 87-year-old tradition but to start a new one.

    The campaign garnered a lot of positive response right from its pre-launch phase. While people did not know what was going to happen exactly on the day of the Mahalaya, the thought of something new got them interested. People took it in the right stride and motivated the brand via their comments and congratulations in the comments section.

    Social media, especially Twitter, was abuzz with conversations about the new Mahalaya narration on September 28 with a lot of famous names talking about the initiative. The video on Facebook too received massive views and reached 500,000 people in a matter of 12 hours of the on-air narration of the BIG Mahalaya, reinforcing the fact that people liked the new ‘Dhun’. Around 10 lakh listeners tuned in to Big FM from Kolkata to listen to the new Mahalaya and it was aired in 19 cities, across India.

    Aalap Desai, Executive Creative Director, Dentsu Webchutney said, “For 87 years, Bengalis all over the world have been following the iconic Mahalaya program created by the Birendra Krishna Bhadra, which narrates the story and praises the goddess Durga. This year, keeping in line with BIG FM's positioning, we thought of creating a modern-day rendition of this iconic piece but with a powerful message. #BIGMahalaya's concept revolves around adapting progressive thoughts and inclusion, resulting in a new outlook of equal opportunities. The idea was simple and needed a lot of people to come together to make it happen and today we are proud of what we have achieved.”

    Speaking about the association, Sunil Kumaran, Country Head – Product, Marketing & THWINK BIG, BIG FM said, “Over the years, women have refrained from being a part of many traditions due to pre-set mandates. But with changing times, one can see how our thoughts are progressing and becoming more and more inclusive. Backed by our aim to create thought changing content which breaks stereotypes, BIG Mahalaya is our attempt to pack the message of inclusiveness and create a modern-day version of this age-old tradition. The original piece is iconic and cannot be replaced, but our 40 min rendition is an attempt at progressing towards a more inclusive and equal approach. We are extremely proud of this initiative which will create an impact in the society.”

  • 3rd Bharat Diamond week all set for flying start

    3rd Bharat Diamond week all set for flying start

    MUMBAI: The third edition of Bharat Diamond Week (BDW) saw a flying start with an august inauguration at Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), in the august presence of Mr. Evgeny Agureev (Deputy CEO, Alrosa), Mr. Nanhai Yan (Vice President, Shanghai Diamond Exchange), Mr. Ashok Gajera (MD, Laxmi Diamond), Mr. Anoop Mehta (President-BDB), Mr. Mehul Shah (Vice-President- BDB) and Mr. Rajesh Bajaj (MD, Bajaj Overseas Ltd.). BDW opened in Bharat Diamond Bourse and will close on 16th October 2019.

    To add sparkle to light up the pre-festival season, renowned diamond manufacturing company, Laxmi Diamond presented a Mercedes Benz, studded with 3.5 lakh CZ diamonds – conceptualised by the architect of this unique event Mr. Rajesh Bajaj (MD, Bajaj Overseas Limited). The Chief Darkhouse bike of the Indian Motorcycle was also showcased at the venue.

    The opening ceremony was a sparkling event graced by the presence of invited guests Porntiva Nakasai, President-Thai Gem & Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA), Somchai Phornchindarak, President- Gems, Jewelry & Precious Metal Confederation of Thailand (GJPCT), leaders & members of World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB), Shanghai Diamond Exchange (SDE) delegation, Thai delegation, various trade delegations including – Israel, Dubai, European countries, Greece, South Africa, Vietnam, Bangladesh and India – GJEPC, GJC, MDMA & trade associations across India!

    Mr. Anoop Mehta, President, Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), said, “This is a momentous occasion for BDB to host all the eminent buyer delegations from around the world. Additionally, since GJEPC is also organising 3rd India Diamond Week Buyer-Seller Meet during the same time and we also welcome all those visitors & buyers too!”

    Another advantage for every attendee at BDW is an option to join the 3rd India Diamond Week (IDW), Buyer Seller Meet (BSM), which is being organised by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) on from 15th October up to 17th October, 2019. Thus buyers can participate in two trade shows & wider options at single venue!  

    The architect of this unique event, Mr. Rajesh Bajaj, MD, Bajaj Overseas Ltd., said, “Bajaj Overseas and HZ International have conceptualised 7 Guinness & Limca Book of Records events. Coinciding with the Bharat Diamond Week, we produced, directed and conceptualised the Mercedes car and bike studded with CZ diamonds to add sparkle to the pre-festival buying season.” 

    At the juncture, Diwali, a great festive buying season is on & to last until March 2020 as a big fat Indian Wedding Season on the back of good crop estimate, China is also excited to celebrate its’ New Year on January 25, 2020 while US & Europe is at latch of Holiday Season &it is estimated to grow about 4% over the previous year. Over all this is the right time for Asian countries, China & Pan India while Europe & US has to last sourcing option ahead of the season!

    About 100+ Indian Diamond MSMEs are showcasing entire spectrum of polished diamond of every size, shapes & colours at the BDW arena at BDB boundaries. The BDB is accommodating about 3K member companies are also ready to cater every buyer to complete their demand list of product mix! De facto India is the largest global diamond manufacturing center on the planet earth & the global share of India is 92% on the back of total 94% Indian Artisans of the globe.

    BDW is ensuring adequate product mix at competitive price with utmost surety of sourcing is a mined diamond! Now, it is known that no CVDs are allowed in the boundaries of BDB & it is being observed strictly. To learn more about CVDs, the BDW has on-site facilities to get check any diamond! This is the reason that the show is retaining buyer’s un-wavering confidence which is being earned by the BDB over the years!

    BDW buyer Mehul Shah said, “Inevitable impending season around & uncertainties around sourcing market places led additional strength to the BDW- the place of certainty of sourcing desired product mix with stanch buying confidence that of buying 100% mined diamonds, no hidden fear of any LGDs!”

    BDB, the organiser of the BDW ensures every buyer must be at ease to feel a great buying experience in a comfortable and relaxed environment in order to save them time and money. Let every buyer get connected with every showcases of the dome! BDB has taken enough measures for buyers’ hassle free buying by ensuring ease of entry in the BDB campus and that begin right with their travelling assistance, encouragement to first time visitors, accommodations around the venue.

    Equally, the BDW is the first of its kind equipped with International standards and facilities at BDB. The Complex is spread over an area of 0.87 Million sq ft of land. The total constructed area is 2 million sq ft with two basements of additional 1 million sq ft. BDB has created a business framework to conduct their transactions in maximum convenience and security.

  • Vodafone Idea partners with cii techsaksham project for msmes to adapt in the digital age

    Vodafone Idea partners with cii techsaksham project for msmes to adapt in the digital age

    MUMBAI: Vodafone Idea, in partnership with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Ministry of MSMEs and other tech giants like Intel, Dell, HP, WhatsApp, and Banking Partner YES BANK have already initiated an exclusive digital project TECHSAKSHAM- focused on supporting MSMEs in India to become tech-enabled. Aligned with the Ministry’s aspiration of generating value-added employment, TECHSAKSHAM will address barriers faced by MSMEs in their growth and expansion. The initiative aims to bridge the gap in technology adoption through exceptional technology-driven services of VIBS and a gamut of digital-first solutions and partnerships.

    TECHSAKSHAM, in its first phase, will focus on sectors that have a tendency to respond positively to adopting technology, while also creating a larger discussion in other MSME clusters. The project is envisioned to create a movement that will have a long-term impact on the MSMEs in India. Partners will extend its technology expertise in building a stable platform that will enable, SME Policy Advocacy, Tech Awareness and Technology-driven Workshops in 10 cities for tier 1 and tier 2 MSMEs.  Additionally, partners are getting into an agreement with CII to build a Technology Portal to further strengthen the project.

    Mr Shreekant Somany, Chairman, CII National MSME Council emphasized the need to empower MSMEs harness the next-gen technologies for sustainable growth in the global marketplace. “While MSMEs have started entering the era of Industry 4.0, the pace has been slow. Adoption of upgraded technology is usually witnessed in the medium segment of MSMEs which have the requisite resources required for the adoption of advanced technology. The phenomenon is less common in the small and micro-segments. To promote and popularise adoption of technology by the MSMEs, CII along with its Industry Partners have undertaken a massive sensitization campaign for it’s MSME members which constitutes 67% of the total membership of 9000+ through Project TECHSAKSHAM,” he said.

    Commenting on the partnership, Ajay Sehgal, SVP- SME and SoHo, Vodafone Idea Business Services said, “The growth of MSMEs is critical to realise the goal of 5 trillion dollar economy by 2025. It is imperative for MSMEs to embark on the digital journey, adopt new technologies and achieve sustainable competitiveness. We are pleased to be associated with TECHSAKSHAM and firmly believe it is a great platform led by MSME ministry, CII and supported by Tech partners that gives MSMEs an opportunity to access and avail new technologies with ease. Our wide array of digital-first solutions and tools allows us to partner Small businesses to create their digital identity and provide a strong backbone in projects such as this, led by MSME ministry and CII.”

    Through various policy recommendations, knowledge sessions, mentoring initiatives, and useful resource banks for MSMEs, TECHSAKSHAM will help the ecosystem address critical barriers such as awareness and cost of technology, purchase or maintenance, resources, and manpower required to run the technologies, return on investments, etc.

  • Grasim Industries appoint Srishti Sawhney as President and Global Brand Head, Pulp & Fibre

    Grasim Industries appoint Srishti Sawhney as President and Global Brand Head, Pulp & Fibre

    MUMBAI: Grasim Industries has appointed Srishti Sawhney as the President and Global Brand Head for Pulp & Fibre Business. In her new role, Sawhney’s mandate will be to strengthen and enhance the communication and branding of the ingredient brand Liva. She will also chart out the strategy to showcase the dynamism of product and capitalise on opportunities that would result in exponential growth. There will be key focus on collaboration and partnerships that will further solidify the brands positioning and key offerings.

    Rajeev Gopal, Global Chief Sales & Marketing Officer & Group Executive President, Grasim Industries | Pulp & Fibre,  said “Srishti Sawhney’s appointment is an extension of the company’s ongoing efforts towards building agile teams and integrated structures to deliver maximum growth and perception for the ingredient brand. We are confident that Srishti’s razor sharp focus will move the company forward in its next phase of growth and expansion.”

    With nearly three decades of varied experience, Srishti will bring her learnings from handling multiple consumer and luxury brands to the strategy that will be charted out for the communication and branding of Liva and its sub-brands.

    Srishti Sawhney, President and Global Brand Head, Grasim Industries, Pulp & Fibre Business said, “The growing complexity of marketing platforms calls for a multi-dimensional approach that is collaborative and integrated in nature. I am extremely excited to be a part of Birla’s futuristic division and am looking forward to working with the team to start a new chapter for the Pulp & Fibre business. Our aim is to communicate and create a clear image of the brands – for the consumers to relate to and trade to see the functionality of.”

    Srishti has previously handled and been a key player in the marketing and communication strategies of top companies and brands like Spark44, Jaguar Land Rover India, Audi India, DY&R, JWT, Leo Burnett & McCann, in that order. She was instrumental in launching brands like Bacardi, Colgate Total, Sprite, Georgia & Diet Coke in India.

  • EaseMyTrip Joining Hands with Malaysia Tourism to promote the Destination

    EaseMyTrip Joining Hands with Malaysia Tourism to promote the Destination

    MUMBAI: EaseMyTrip.com, (EMT) one of the leading players in the Online Travel Aggregators segment, has joined hands with Malaysia Tourism Board to promote the destination amongst Indian tourists and offer customized tour packages for Malaysia at attractive rates.

    For promoting tourism in Malaysia, renowned TV actress Adaa Khan of Naagin series fame joined EaseMyTrip’s team.

    Talking about this association, Mr. Sulaiman Bin Suip, Director, Tourism Malaysia, New Delhi said, “It is indeed a great opportunity to associate with EaseMyTrip with an aim to boost tourism in an unexplored destination like Sabah through popular TV actress Ms. Adaa khan. Sabah is one of the most beautiful destinations in Malaysia. White sand, beautiful scenic view, crystal   clear water along with mesmerizing marine life makes Sabah, an ultimate destination for a perfect leisure time in Malaysia. This initiative would definitely help us to showcase different side of Malaysia to the potential travelers.”

    Commenting upon this development, Mr. Rikant Pitti, Co-Founder & COO, EaseMyTrip said, “We are elated to associate with Malaysia Tourism Board. Malaysia being a culturally rich nation, offers tons of places to explore with numerous activities to enjoy. The country has set a target of attracting at least one million tourists from India every year and we are delighted to be part of this vision of the board which would further be beneficial for EaseMyTrip as a brand.”

    In order to make this a reality, Malaysia Tourism Board has pledged to amplify the nation’s promotion in India. This year, Malaysia tourism board is expecting a 20% growth in tourist arrivals from India owing to various marketing initiatives across major Indian cities.

    India is amongst the top 10 countries for Malaysia in terms of tourists. Almost 600,311 Indian tourists visited Malaysia, registering a growth of more than 8.6% in 2018 and spent around RM 2.7 Billion. Moreover, from January to May 2019, a total number of 2,95,609 Indian tourists visited the country registering a growth of 15.5% in comparison to the same period of the last year. Malaysia is now aiming to target of 728,000 Indian tourists to visit Malaysia. Understanding the growing popularity of the region amongst Indians, EaseMyTrip has tied up with the tourism board of Malaysia.

     

  • Explore the Spider-verse with the &pictures Hindi premiere of ‘Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse’ on 12th October at 8 pm

    Explore the Spider-verse with the &pictures Hindi premiere of ‘Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse’ on 12th October at 8 pm

    MUMBAI: Imagine, one morning you get up to discover that you have special powers like a superhero. Sounds interesting right! Well, similar is the story of a young lad Miles Morales who is stunned on finding out about his spider like abilities. But just when he thinks that he is the only one with these powers his mind starts to dwindle as he comes across multiple spider people with similar powers. Get ready to witness  transcending journey of the multiverse called ‘The Spider Verse’, where Peter Parker is not the only spider man as &pictures – Naye India Ka Blockbuster Movie Channel airs the Hindi television premiere of Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse on 12th October at 8pm. Directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey and Rodney Rothman, the movie promises a visual treat for all Spidey fans as it introduces a new friendly neighbourhood Spiderman – Miles Morales and the limitless possibilities of the Spider Verse, where more than one wears the coveted spider mask.

    The Academy Award and Golden Globe winner Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse believes that there is a superhero hidden inside all of us. Following the life of a teenager named Miles Morales, the movie narrates his journey from being the son of police officer Jefferson Davis, to finding his way with his new-found abilities. He is bitten by a radioactive spider when he enters an abandoned subway station, thus resulting in spider like abilities. Astonished by these changes, he returns to the subway station in order to find the root cause. During his quest to find the truth, he comes across a particle accelerator called ‘The Super-Collider’ built by the villain Kingpin; a man who wants to gain access to parallel universes. His mission to stop Kingpin’s dimension crossing super collider along with Spiderman, brings other spider-people from multiple universes to his world. Will he be able to take down Kingpin on his own?

  • Cloud Telephony service provider Knowlarity Communications to cross 100 crore revenue in the domestic market

    Cloud Telephony service provider Knowlarity Communications to cross 100 crore revenue in the domestic market

    MUMBAI: Cloud-based telephony services provider Knowlarity Communications expects to cross the INR 100 crores annual revenues mark in the domestic market by the end of this financial year. Knowlarity, Asia’s largest cloud telephony company, has been growing at a robust annual rate of 50%. 

    For Knowlarity Communications, a recognized leader in the SaaS vertical, the factors that are helping in reaching the 100 crore revenue mark are the company’s automated and personalized offerings, customized solutions for enterprises and integration with all major CRMs. 

    Knowlarity also has a first-mover advantage in the industry which helped it acquire clients from different industries. The company’s services ensure smooth connectivity to every major telecom vendor. 

    Currently, Knowlarity is developing innovative solutions like distributed workflow management and number-masking services for the Indian market. 

    Knowlarity Communications, CEO, Mr. Yatish Mehrota says “We are proud to announce that we are one of the few Indian SaaS companies who will cross 100 crores revenue catering to the domestic market. With more and more Indian companies investing in SaaS and cloud telephony solutions, Knowlarity emerges as a leading service provider in the industry with its customized offerings across sectors. We continue to strengthen our product and solution portfolio in the area of Customer Interaction Management on Voice and SMS”. 

    One of the major challenges faced by the company is the low awareness of cloud telephony. Even in the current technology-driven age, people lack knowledge about the huge potential of cloud-based solutions. There is a lack of knowledge about how businesses can leverage this technology to grow their operations. Several sectors are still working along conventional lines and are unwilling to switch to cloud telephony and instead invest in on-premise solutions.

    Knowlarity helps large enterprises to manage their business communication through its customized solutions approach. It has adopted a vertical solutions approach rather than a product-centric approach. The company is growing more focused on AI-powered solutions (Data Insights, Speech Recognitions), Contact Centers and integrations. It also expects to add enhanced features to its existing products and platforms. 

  • Tanishq celebrates Riwaazon wali Diwali through Virasat collection TVC

    Tanishq celebrates Riwaazon wali Diwali through Virasat collection TVC

    MUMBAI: Tanishq, India’s trusted jewellery brand has launched a new TVC campaign marking one of the most anticipated festivals of the year, Diwali. For this auspicious occasion, Tanishq is launching its new festive collection- Virasat. The new TVC campaign brings alive the essence of age old traditions, cultures and rituals which have been followed through generations. The campaign aims to take forward the age old tradition of purchasing jewellery which makes Diwali auspicious.

    Conceptualized with Lowe, the film perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Diwali celebrations and continuing the tradition of buying jewellery across generations in all its glory. The film truly brings to life various Diwali customs across the country of buying sweets, wearing something new on Diwali, lighting up each corner of the house and gifting jewellery. Highlighting the thought behind the collection Virasat, the film showcases the diversity amongst consumer, cultures and customs.

    Diwali is the harbinger of joy and prosperity in Indian households across different cultures and people indulge in buying jewellery, keeping the age-long family traditions alive. Tanishq celebrates the spirit of Diwali by bringing alive these traditional elements. The TVC campaign shows how relations strengthen across different communities by revisiting their traditional roots and gifting their loved ones Tanishq’s jewellery while celebrating Tanishq Wali Diwali.

    Speaking on the launch of TVC, Ms. Deepika Tewari, Associate Vice President– Marketing, Jewellery Division at Titan Company Limited says, “Each Diwali is a testament of the traditions that has been passed down from one generation to another and has been followed each year with equal vigour. This campaign is an ode to the innumerable ‘Rivaaj’ or traditions that are followed by us, especially that of buying gold and hence the name ‘Virasat’. We sincerely hope our grand new Virasat Collection will add a bit of sparkle to everyone’s life. At Tanishq we wish everyone to be a part of Riwaazon wali Diwali, Tanishq waali Diwali”

    Quoting about the film Sagar Kapoor, Chief Creative Officer, “Diwali and Tanishq are integral to each other. Buying gold in Diwali has been a big part of tradition across the country. This year Tanishq inspires people to take this tradition, this ‘riwaaj’ forward. Of course at the heart of the communication is the love, prosperity and joy that Tanishq jewelry brings about in people’s lives.” 

  • India News Gujarat hosts ‘Vikas Vaibhav’- grandeur political Conclave & Awards on change and improvement

    India News Gujarat hosts ‘Vikas Vaibhav’- grandeur political Conclave & Awards on change and improvement

    MUMBAI: India News Gujarat, the leading regional news channel of ITV network organized a major event revolving around the positive change and improvement happening in the stunning region of Daman & Diu and to honour the individuals who have helped in flourishing it.

    In an effort to felicitate gems of Daman Diu & Dadra Nagar Haveli who have not only excelled in their respective fields but also positively influenced others, these pioneers were given awards in an attempt to recognize and appreciate them for the exemplary work they have done in their respective field of work and in a hope to inspire others to do the same. Along with recognition and awards, there were multiple sessions on current changing topics with government representatives and key officials of the Union Territory. 

    The chief guest of the event Shri Praful K. Patel, Hon’ble Administrator of Union Territories of Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli graciously honoured the occasion by his presence which was held at the luxuriant Daman Ganga Valley resort, Silvassa. He profoundly appreciated the great efforts made by the guests, and iTV network for organizing such a profound event, he mentioned the fact that for the first time national media has taken an interest in Daman and Diu, personally thanking the network for taking up issues related to the Union Territory. He also gave the credit to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the development of the state. Adding on to that, he said that this is the first time that the central government has given a Union Territory a package of one thousand crores.  

    With heightened energy in the atmosphere that was a result of the positive influence the respected guests that graced the occasion have had on the community, the event began with the first session of panel discussion about the growing grandeur change “VikasVaibhav” which was incorporated by Shri Sandeep Kumar, Member and Collector of DNH (Administration of Daman & Diu) and Shri Vishal Tandel, respected BJP leader and spokesperson of Daman & Diu. Talking about how far the state has come, they praised the endeavour of the citizens and talked about the ongoing plans that will help the state reach higher heights. Shri Khurshid Manjra, dignified member of Congress and General Secretary of Daman & Diu accompanied by Shri R. K. Shukla, a business tycoon were also present. They discussed about the various efforts that have been made and raised the subject of growth in the fields of infrastructure and housing, how the city has become smarter in all aspects. 

    Following the interplay of varying stances on the topic of VikasVaibhav, the second panel discussion began in full swing, this session was subjected to the same topic ‘Vikas Vaibhav’ but with a special focus on changes happening in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, with the assistance of respected panellists sharing their ideas and point of views pertaining to the positive changes in their region and what could be done to improve the situation further. This panel discussion involved interchange of words between Shri Mohit Mishra, Chief Officer of SMC (Silvassa Municipal Corporation) and Shri Mahesh Gamit, Vice President, Jilla Panchayat, Dadra & Nagar Haveli. Discussing the good intent of the policies and plans that have been made by the centre pertaining to the growth of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, the livelihoods of all citizens in the region has massively improved. Shri Vikram Parmar, senior leader of Congress in company with Shri Chandrakanth Parekh, President of Silvassa Industries & Manufacturers Association also shared wise words and plans that can help in further improvement of the situation. 

    After a thorough exchange of differing expressions and ideas between the pristine guests, the event embarked on the third session of panel discussion that revolves around the profound question of “How to make housing more affordable” since the inflating rates of properties curb housing purchases and cause daunting difficulty for the buyers in Daman & Diu market. Panelists included Smt. Charmie Parekh, General Manager OIDC, Daman, Shri Kamlesh Singh Parmar, BJP leader and MP from Udaipuria and Member of SBIDA along with Shri Mahesh Chauhan, fellow member of SBIDA. Applauding the major improvement in the real-estate area, they discussed the possibilities of making housing more economical. Shri Ajit Yadav, President of Dadra and Nagar Haveli Industries Association was also present. Chief Guest Shri Prabul K. Patel proudly mentioned the ‘affordable housing scheme’ and said that it changed the lives of many ordinary citizens and they all found a new home at an affordable price.

    Trailing after various significant and eloquent panel discussions, the enthralling energy was further boosted by the arrival of Hon’ble Shri Praful K. Patel, the chief guest; he shared his wisdom and applauded the efforts and care shown by the central government and the Prime Minister for their plans that helped in rapid growth of Daman and Diu. There are abundant plans that have been started for the betterment of the welfare of the poor and tribals along with many provisions made for the labourers, he mentioned. He also recognized that Daman and Diu is now famously known as one of the smart cities because of the policies of the government, even the evolution of Silvassa is a cause of these policies. 

    After an eventful day of multiple productive discussions, the awards were handed out by Hon’ble Chief Guest Shri Praful K. Patel to the determined and dignified individuals that have dedicated themselves towards achieving excellence and bringing about a positive change in society. As he was leaving, he thanked India News for focussing and caring for the welfare of Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.