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Tag: PM Modi

  • Steep Climbs, Little Foothold: The Challenges of Indian Indie Game Developers

    Steep Climbs, Little Foothold: The Challenges of Indian Indie Game Developers

    In his Independence Day speech this year, PM Modi hoped that Indian game developers can make a mark on the global scene. This was not without reason. Indian gaming offers a unique landscape. From media choices to playing durations, from game formats to variations, this uniqueness offers a ripe Make in India opportunity. Be it playing rummy on a popular rummy app or shuffling their favourite cricket players in a fantasy league game, there is Indianness to gaming here.

    But has the average indie game developer managed to capitalise on this opportunity? Global gaming giants like Xbox are keen to harness the potential of these indie developers. Its India Lead for global expansion, Arjun Varma, has even hinted at including more Indian games in their Xbox Game Pass.

    However, the road to recognition for the Indian indie game developer is not without challenges.

    High on Skill, Low on Resource

    Independent businesses in any industry have to operate within their limited resources. This is a major challenge in a vocation like game development. Games developed with cutting-edge technology and high-quality sound and graphics have a better chance of success. However, it requires a budget that only big gaming studios can afford.

    Developing a game can cost you anything between ₹50 lakhs to ₹3 crores. Games remain in the development stage for one to three years. High cost and high gestation period are paid off when the game is selected by a streaming platform like Sony or Steam. If the game makes it, it can command a subscription fee of ₹500 to ₹1500. If not, the struggle continues as the game relies on effective marketing.

    Crowded with Competition

    In India, Hyderabad has a growing indie game scene, with around 20 to 30 firms engaged in the development of independent games. Across the country, there are more than 1,500 developers and more than 300 companies, many of whom are into indie games. Making a breakthrough product can be a challenge amidst the competition. Making things difficult is the sweeping popularity of the global AAA gaming titles.

    If an indie game doesn’t end up on a streaming platform, its struggles will continue for a longer spell. An indie game developer may not have access to the marketing resources and teams that big studios have. They rely on gaming forums, social media and online venues and events to reach out to the gamers and gather a fan following.

    Indie game developers must note that getting into a streaming platform is not the end of challenges either. It is a crowded marketplace with thousands of players vying for gamer’s attention. For instance, on Steam, there are over 13,000 gaming titles, out of which nearly 99% are indie games. They share the spoils out of the 48% of the revenue generated in the platform. AA and AAA games, on the other hand, command 52% revenue despite representing a little over 1% of the games present on the platform.

    Balancing Skill and Timeline

    While India is home to hundreds of skilled game developers, developing a game requires a fine balance. High skill can lead to good quality, but adhering to the timeline is just as important. While big studios can afford a delay in the game development, it can lead to dire financial consequences for indie developers.

    With finances as a looming backdrop, indie game developers in India decide on feasible game mechanics, the size of the development team, and the extent of trial and error they can afford. And then conclude the initial debugging and optimisation within the project timeline. All of these call for a meticulously planned game development lifecycle.

    Indie Infrastructure and Efforts in India

    The skill development and infrastructural initiatives undertaken by the Indian government stand to benefit the Indian gaming industry as well. Initiatives like the AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) policies are expected to empower aspiring Indian AAA game developers as well as indie developers.

    Regional initiatives like the “IMAGE”, a centre of entrepreneurship for gaming, animation, VFX, computer vision, and AI startups, have also helped indie gamers. IMAGE has confirmed that it has more than 40 indie game startups operating under the centre. Besides, initiatives like the Krafton India Gaming Incubator have shown that impressive Indian indie games like Spice Secrets and Sojourn Past can be given a platform to excel.

    Going back to the uniqueness of the Indian gaming market, the success of certain real money games is an indication of the scope available to indie developers. The preference of Indian gamers for games like rummy has led to the success of apps like RummyCulture and many other real money gaming platforms.

    Continued Optimism

    Industry watchers maintain their optimism when it comes to the potential of Indian indie game developers and studios. Success stories like Asura and Raji, the rise of crowdfunding in gaming and the cultural relevance of indie games can push Indian indie games to higher ground.   
     

  • Doordarshan is to run a special news bulletin titled ‘Ram Ki Paidi’

    Doordarshan is to run a special news bulletin titled ‘Ram Ki Paidi’

    Mumbai: Meticulous arrangements are being made for the smooth and successful conduct of the consecration ceremony of the Shri Ram temple in Ayodhya Dham, being held on 22 January 2024. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will perform the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ as per prescribed rituals. It is expected that more than 8,000 guests will visit the temple on this day, followed by lakhs of devotees from 23 January onwards.

    Live Telecast

    Elaborate arrangements have been made for a LIVE telecast of the ceremony. The entire event would be live-telecast in 4K quality by Doordarshan, on DD News and DD National channels. On 23 January 2024, Doordarshan will do a LIVE telecast of Aarti and the Opening of Shree Ram Temple for the public.

    Doordarshan shall share the clean feed of the event in Ayodhya on 22 January 2024 with ANI TV and PTI Video. All TV channels which are subscribers to the agency can obtain feed from there.

    For other National and International broadcasters, a YouTube link with a key to a clean feed will be generated. This link will be shared with the concerned broadcasters upon their request. In order to obtain the YouTube link, domestic broadcasters may place their request with the Press Information Bureau. International TV Channels would need to place their request directly with Prasar Bharati. Contact details are available in the PIB Media Advisory, which can be accessed here.

    Channels also have the option of patching to DD News, in case a clean feed is not required. Courtesy may be given to Doordarshan in this case. PIB will issue photographs and press releases of the event, in English, Hindi, and Indian state languages.

    Ayodhya Media Centre

    A Media Centre is being set up at Ram Katha Sangrahalay in Ayodhya with limited capacity, where large LED TVs will be set up to facilitate viewing of the telecast. The Media Centre will be equipped with a Wi-Fi facility for media persons to file their stories.

    Portal for Media Passes

    The media organizations desirous of covering the event from Ayodhya may apply through PIB’s centralized portal, latest by 6 p.m., 17 January 2024; based on which security passes will be issued, through state administration. The portal can be accessed here.

    Special Programmes by Doordarshan

    Besides the live telecasts, Doordarshan is running a Special News Bulletin titled Ram Ki Paidi (राम की पैडी)) during 1 January – 15, 2024. From 5 P.M. -8 P.M., there will be a special live programme titled “श्री राम अयोध्या आये हैं” (Shri Ram Ayodhya Aaye Hain) which will include daily Ayodhya round-up, guest discussions, special stories, and vox-pop.

    Health Facilities

    Efforts are being made to make information on medical care facilities at Ayodhya available on the website of the local administration in Ayodhya and the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, in order to facilitate people in getting adequate medical assistance. A team has been sent from JPNA Trauma Centre, AIIMS, New Delhi to impart training to around 200 health workers in Ayodhya from January 12 – 15, 2024.

    The government of India is likely to establish a Bhishm Emergency Response facility at Ayodhya during the Pran Pratishta ceremony and allied programmes.

  • Gujarat is fully 5G services enabled anywhere in the world – Mukesh Ambani

    Gujarat is fully 5G services enabled anywhere in the world – Mukesh Ambani

    Mumbai: To become pioneering Gujarat for infrastructure, socioeconomic development ecosystem com ‘ Vibrant Gujarat 2024’ held on Wednesday. Sustainable development and making India and Gujarat become ‘ Business Hub’. By promoting inclusivity in the business approach of PM Modi, Self Narendra Modi, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel many veterans along with company delegates and Industrialists like Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani were also presented at the summit.

    The Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024 epitome of success and development of India in recent times. While addressing the summit, Mukesh Ambani emphasised modern India for Entrepreneurship and Sustainable development. And to become global leader in Telecom and Green energies. According to Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani, in the last few years Reliance industries heavily in the Green Energy landscape amounting to Rs 12 Lakh Crores. Significantly one third amount from total investment is invested in Gujarat.

    He also highlighted Reliance achievement for the investment and proactively rollout of 5 technologies in Gujarat. While addressing he said, ‘ Reliance Jio completed the fastest rollout of 5 G services anywhere in the world. Today Gujarat is completely 5G services enabled including Urban and rural areas. This will make Gujarat a global leader in digital platform and AI transformation.’

    He also praised the mission of PM Narendra Modi for vision of a developed India by saying, ‘ PM Modi is the most successful PM of India. His vision and mission is taking India ahead in global leadership.’

    Currently Gujarat also planned to become a semiconductor hub for India by attracting global investments. Also while addressing the growth story of Gujarat, he said,’ I am proud Gujarati ‘.When foreigners think of new India then think of new Gujarat.’

  • Cordelia Cruises to Lakshadweep – India’s most searched yet fairly unexplored island

    Cordelia Cruises to Lakshadweep – India’s most searched yet fairly unexplored island

    Mumbai: Cordelia Cruises has emerged as the unparalleled leader in introducing Indian travellers to the splendours of Lakshadweep. Since 2021, they have been the only cruise line consistently facilitating remarkable journeys to this unexplored paradise, making them the definitive choice for anyone aspiring to visit Lakshadweep. Following PM Modi’s recent visit, interest in this pristine archipelago has skyrocketed, with Cordelia Cruises experiencing a 2500 per cent surge in booking queries.

    More than 200,000 Indians introduced to Lakshadweep since 2021: Cordelia Cruises has been the only cruise line to facilitate over 200,000 Indians’ discovery of Lakshadweep since 2021.

    80,000 passengers annually explore Lakshadweep through Cordelia Cruises.

    Regular sailings from Mumbai, Goa, and Kochi: Offering unparalleled access to Lakshadweep.

    Significant economic contribution through shore excursions: Boosting local economies and creating symbiotic relationships with the island communities.

    Cordelia Cruises stands out with its unique itineraries from Mumbai, Goa, and Kochi, offering more than just a journey – it’s an immersive cultural and environmental experience. Over 80,000 guests cruise every year to explore Lakshadweep’s rich tapestry, vibrant marine life, and stunning landscapes through our cruises, significantly boosting the local economy.

    In line with its commitment to sustainability and community support, Cordelia Cruises is planning extensive CSR initiatives. These include local community hospitality training programs and environmental sustainability activities like beach clean-ups, ensuring a positive impact both ecologically and socially.

    Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd, Cordelia Cruises president and CEO Jurgen Bailom said, “We are thrilled about the growing interest in Lakshadweep; we are committed to being an integral part of its growth story. Cordelia Cruises is proud to have introduced over 200,000 Indians to the mesmerising islands of Lakshadweep since 2021, significantly contributing to the region’s tourism and local economies. We’ve witnessed a remarkable interest for Lakshadweep cruises, particularly the 4-night and 5-night itineraries from Mumbai, which echoes the public’s enthusiasm for exploring this idyllic destination.

    India’s cruising landscape has been witnessing a remarkable transformation, and Cordelia Cruises is at the forefront of this monumental shift. With a commitment to delivering world-class cruising experiences, Cordelia Cruises has played a significant role in making the dream of cruising accessible to countless Indian travellers.

  • ABP News hosts Ayodhya Utsav prior to Ram Mandir inauguration

    ABP News hosts Ayodhya Utsav prior to Ram Mandir inauguration

    Mumbai: Ahead of the highly anticipated inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on 22 January 2023, by PM Narendra Modi, ABP News has unveiled the Ayodhya Utsav. Scheduled for broadcast on ABP News from 27 to 31 December 2023, this celebratory event stands as a poignant tribute to the profound cultural and religious significance of the impending inauguration of the Ram Mandir.

    Set against the serene backdrop of the sacred Sarayu River, the Ayodhya Utsav serves as a momentous platform to explore the religious, cultural, and socio-economic reverberations. This celebration embodies a deep reverence for Ayodhya’s historical legacy and cultural heritage, emphasising the symbolic importance of this sacred land.

    The schedule for Ayodhya Utsav boasts a diverse array of cultural performances, thought-provoking discussions, and poignant reflections. Esteemed personalities from various spheres including music, politics, poetry, and religious leadership will converge to commemorate this historic milestone. The event will provide a platform for engaging discussions and expressive cultural presentations, fostering an atmosphere of celebration and introspection around this significant occasion.

    Among the distinguished guests, Swati Mishra, known for her rendition of “Ram Aayenge,” joins the event alongside Champat Rai, the general secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra. Krishna Gopal, serving as Sah Sarkaryawah of RSS, and Raju Das, the Mahant of Hanuman Gadhi in Ayodhya, will share their insights and contributions during this momentous occasion. Additionally, the esteemed gathering includes Satyendra Das, Shishya of Ramvilas Vedyanti and Kalpatri Maharaj Sant. Mahant Dharam Das, recognised for his involvement in the Babri Masjid case, is also slated to participate, alongside renowned figures such as Anup Jalota, a distinguished singer, and Anamika Amber and Sunil Jogi, eminent poets. Ravi Kishan, Member of Parliament from BJP, will offer his perspectives, while Purnima Kothari, the sister of the Kothari Brothers who lost their lives during Kar Seva will represent the enduring sacrifices made during this historic journey. The event will also see the presence of Pradeep Kumar Gupta, and The Sadho Band which will add their musical tribute to this significant celebration.

    The Ayodhya Utsav brought to audiences by ABP News, extends a cordial invitation for all to partake in this grand celebration. The channel endeavours to create a nurturing space for dialogue, cultural expression, and a profound appreciation for the transformative journey culminating in the inauguration of the Ram Mandir.

     

  • PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Surat Diamond Bourse

    PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Surat Diamond Bourse

    Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Surat Diamond Bourse, the world’s largest corporate office building in Surat on Sunday. Built at a cost of Rs 3,400 crores, the Surat Diamond Bourse will further strengthen Surat’s position in the global diamond industry.

    Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Surat Diamond Bourse as one more diamond added to Surat’s grandeur. PM Modi said, “This diamond is not small, but the world’s best. Even the biggest buildings of the world pale before the shine of this diamond. This building is the symbol of new strength and determination of new India,” the Prime Minister said.

    He recalled that in the past, buyers from 84 countries used to come to Surat for trading, but because of the Surat Diamond Bourse, the city will attract buyers from 175 countries.

    He said that “with India’s largest customs clearance house, jewellery mall, international banking and safe vault facilities, the Surat Diamond Bourse will provide a world-class business experience. He said that India’s share in the global gem & jewellery exports is 3.50 per cent, but the central government has identified the gem & jewellery sector as a focus area to increase the exports to double digits”.

    “Make in India has become an influential brand globally and the Surat Diamond Bourse is the best example of it. The building is a symbol of India’s design, concept, engineering, architecture, and self-reliance. The Surat Diamond Bourse will prove to be a game-changer for the country’s economy,” he added, expressing that the bourse will emerge as a one-stop-centre for diamond workers, merchants, traders, and buyers.

    The Prime Minister also called upon the Indian gems & jewellery industry to play its part in making India the third-largest economy in the next five years and contribute to building a developed India.

    The Surat Diamond Bourse is a part of the Diamond Research and Mercantile City (DREAM City), which is taking shape at Khajod near Magdalla in Surat in an area of 682 hectares. More than 4,200 diamond industrialists have come together to establish the Surat Diamond Bourse.

    In his address, chief minister Bhupendra Patel said, “The belief that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the guarantee of development has been firmly established across the country. He has created a new history of development with his resolution of ‘Developed India @ 2047.”

    The Chief Minister also said that by attracting lakhs of people from across the country, Surat has emerged as a mini-India and truly signifies the prime minister’s vision of “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat”.

    In his address, Surat Diamond Bourse Chairman and Kiran Gems’ chairman Vallabhbhai Lakhani, said, “The Surat Diamond Bourse was born out of the idea that if Surat can emerge as the global hub of diamond cutting and polishing, why it can also not become a trading hub. The Surat Diamond Bourse will become a world-class trading centre for Indian and international diamond merchants. It is poised to create thousands of employment opportunities, which will have a substantial impact on the country’s economy.”

    Director of Surat Diamond Bourse Laljibhai Patel said, “The Surat Diamond Bourse is the result of the efforts and commitment of 4,200 members and the over 900 meetings we had. The commencement of the Surat Diamond Bourse marks a new era in Surat’s history. We are committed to helping realise the Prime Minister’s vision of a new India.”

    The Surat Diamond Bourse has become the world’s largest office complex, spanning over 67 lakh square feet of floor space. It has surpassed the size of the Pentagon, the US defence headquarters, which is spread across 65 lakh square feet. The megastructure comprises nine 15-storey towers, which house a total of around 4,700 offices.

    Later, speaking with media-persons, director of Surat Diamond Bourse Mathur Savani said, “It is a proud moment for all of us that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Surat Diamond Bourse. The diamond industry has played a pivotal role in placing Surat on the global map. I am confident that the inauguration of Surat Diamond Bourse marks the beginning of a new era in Surat’s growth.”

    The Surat Diamond Bourse is expected to host business of Rs. 2 lakh crore per year and establish Surat as the global hub of the diamond industry.

  • India Today Group unleashes five regional AI anchors to team up with Sana

    India Today Group unleashes five regional AI anchors to team up with Sana

    Mumbai: In a historic moment at the 5th India Today Conclave in Mumbai held on 5 October, India Today Group managing director Kalli Purie, joined Sana, India’s First AI anchor, to introduce a cutting-edge roster of AI anchors. Representing diverse regions of India, these AI regional anchors are set to redefine how news is delivered and consumed, marking a significant milestone in newsroom evolution.

    The India Today Group ushered in a new era of AI journalism earlier this year when it introduced India’s First AI Anchor, Sana; in March. Since then, Sana has tirelessly delivered 200 hours of programming, transcending various genres, languages, and platforms. In less than six months, Sana has already added several credits to her belt including interacting with PM Modi (first AI Anchor to interact with a head of the state), anchoring a dedicated segment on prime-time, and interacting with global leaders like Brad Smith of Microsoft and Shahrukh Khan.

    On the concluding day of India Today Conclave 2023 in Mumbai, Purie took the opportunity to get Sana to introduce a diverse array of AI anchors: SAIli, the pioneering AI Marathi news anchor for Mumbai Tak; AIshwarya, the authoritative Hindi anchor for UP Tak, Bharat Tak, and News Tak; NAIna, the engaging Bhojpuri anchor on Aaj Tak 2; AIna, India’s inaugural Bengali AI anchor on Aaj Tak Bangla; and JAI, the articulate English AI anchor on India Today TV, representing the global perspective.

    Speaking about the group’s AI anchors, Purie said, “For the first time in our group’s 48-year history, we’ve taken a leap by creating an anchor from scratch rather than hiring one! These AI Anchors exemplify our unwavering commitment to always looking out for new tech that can enable our newsroom to deliver a richer faster more personalised news experience.

    The AI news anchors cater to diverse linguistic communities across the nation, appreciating and understanding their local preferences in terms of content preference, dialect, culture, and language, creating a personal connection with the audience. This strategic move underscores the Group’s dedication to innovation and its commitment to a superior quality audience experience.

    AI Anchor profiles

    Aaj Tak now has the dynamic AI anchor NAIna, who spearheads the Bhojpuri news segment on the Aaj Tak 2 digital platform. Across India, Bhojpuri-speaking audiences are known to be the raging group driving YouTube-based news consumption. Infused with an innate understanding of the language’s nuances, AI Naina seamlessly captivates audiences, ensuring the delivery of Bhojpuri news with an amalgamation of authenticity and precision.

    In a significant stride towards bolstering regional representation, the Mumbai Tak digital platform proudly presents SAIli, its first AI news reader, proficient in Marathi. Saili’s eloquence and understanding of the regional flourish harmoniously resonate with the Marathi audience.

    AI anchor AIshwarya brings cheer to the Hindi-speaking audience on News Tak, Bharat Tak and UP Tak. An embodiment of credible journalism and precision reporting, she effortlessly fosters a robust connection with the audience through her seamless news delivery with utmost accuracy.

    Possessing absolute proficiency in Bangla and personifying the Bengali culture, AI anchor AIna establishes a compelling bond with viewers who seek news in their native tongue. Her accent, eye for detail, and cultural sensitivity establish an immediate connection with the audience of Aaj Tak Bangla.

    JAI, the dashing AI anchor, is at the helm of the English news spectrum analysis on India Today TV. His high-speed data analysis capability for churning out news content that resonates with its audiences nationwide and his innovative storytelling is highly captivating. His mastery of the language and the ease of communication make him dear to his viewers.

  • E-Gaming Federation urges govt to maintain 18% GST for online skill gaming sector

    E-Gaming Federation urges govt to maintain 18% GST for online skill gaming sector

    MUMBAI: The GST Council reconstituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) in February 2022 to study the GST rates for casinos, racecourses, and online gaming. The panel’s terms of reference stated that it will examine the valuation of services offered by casinos, racecourses, and online gaming portals, as well as the taxability of some casino transactions, all within the context of existing legal provisions and court orders. In addition, if an alternative is recommended, the GoM will investigate any changes that are required in the legal provisions and the administration of such valuation provision. The group will also assess the impact on other similar services, such as the lottery.

    Earlier this month, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Convener – GoM held a meeting with other members and officials to discuss various aspects including the possible GST rates for online gaming, valuation modalities for levying the tax, and other technicalities regarding such activities.

    Currently, a tax rate of 18 percent is levied on the commission (Gross Gaming Revenue or GGR) collected by the online gaming platforms for each game that does not involve betting or gambling. This rate is in line with global best practices since online gaming industry tax structures in countries such as the USA, UK, Germany, and Australia, range between 15 percent to 20 percent. In recent years, the online gaming industry has experienced significant growth. The sector generated Rs 115 billion in revenue in 2020, and it is predicted to expand at a CAGR of 38 percent to Rs 384 billion by 2025.

    The contribution to the government exchequer by this industry was 15 to 20 billion in 2020, and the same is expected to reach 35 to 50 billion by 2025.

    If the current taxation regime is revised and charged on stakes rather than gross gaming revenue (GGR), it will prove to be disastrous to the burgeoning potential of the Indian online gaming industry. The hike will raise the tax by over 800 percent – 900 percent and encourage illicit market operations, which will expose players to unscrupulous operators (predominantly offshore), substantially reduce tax revenues for the government, and all but wipe out a legitimate sunrise sector with the potential to generate $25 billion in annual revenues and hundreds of thousands of jobs by 2030.

    E-Gaming Federation (EGF), an organisation representing top online skill gaming operators in India urges the government to consider Gross Gaming Revenues (GGR) for levying GST and keeping the service at an 18 percent slab.

    EGF CEO Sameer Barde said, “A higher tax burden will make the industry unviable. The gaming platform operators will be unable to continue operations at any meaningful level. Growth, innovation, employment opportunities, government revenues and most important responsible and safe gaming will be impacted in a big way. We urge the GoM to consider the industry’s unique needs and recommend the continuance of the current practice of considering GST to be paid on GGR, with the rate remaining at 18 percent. As online gaming is different from gambling and the Supreme Court and several High Courts have reaffirmed the status of skill-based games as legitimate business activity, rational tax treatment of online skill gaming will help in creating mutually benefitting situations for all the stakeholders.”

    EGF added that PM Modi endorsed India’s gaming industry as a potential world leader, emphasising on the industry’s socioeconomic and cultural importance in today’s globalised and digitised economy. The sector received further impetus after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the setting up of the Animation, Visual Arts, Gaming and Comics (AVGC) Task Force, in her budget speech this year. “We are witnessing the start of a new era in India’s gaming sector. The fact that the government is supporting the industry is really encouraging. The sector’s true growth story, however, will be determined by progressive and favourable policies that establish best practices and encourage responsible gaming.”

  • PM Modi Virtually Inaugurates Celebrations Of Mathrubhumi

    PM Modi Virtually Inaugurates Celebrations Of Mathrubhumi

    The year-long centenary celebrations of the Mathrubhumi, one of the largest media houses in India, will be inaugurated online by the Shri. Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister on March 18 {Friday}. It will be held in Kozhikode, Kerala.

    M V Shreyams Kumar, Managing Director, said, “Completing a century of successful existence is a historic milestone in the life of a corporate institution. This momentous landmark became possible only because of the tremendous goodwill shown to us by all our business partners, trade, and industry. We seek their continued patronage and support in future too. In the evolution from letterpress to the wonders of digital technology, we have kept abreast of change. This is reflected in our presence online and on-air, in both television and radio.”

    P V Chandran, Chairman and Managing Editor had this to say: “This is the beginning of a new era in our journalistic voyage. Championing the immutable values of truth, equality, liberty and social justice, our history is intertwined with that of modern Kerala. Thus, we were instrumental in unifying our home state through a relentless campaign. Our extended family of employees, readers, listening and viewing audiences, newspaper agents and channel distributors is a microcosm of the media ecosystem here.”  

    “Mathrubhumi successfully straddles tradition and technology having embraced the change from 1923 to the age of disruption. Conceived in the womb of the independence movement, we witnessed history in the making – the birth of India. Mahatmaji visited our Head Office on January 13, 1934, after unveiling the portrait of our founding-Managing Director, K Madhavan Nair in Kozhikode Town Hall. Our other nationalist founder-directors too were champions of social reforms. The flames of this legacy were kept alive by our cherished late Chairman and Managing Director, M P Veerendra Kumar, who as a veteran socialist and writer dominated the socio-cultural landscape of Malayalam for more than five decades.”, P V Chandran also added.

    Mathrubhumi enriches Malayalee lives with 15 editions, books division and 11 periodicals. Club FM and Kappa youth channel have ignited Keralite auditory and visual imaginations. While Mathrubhumi News is on air 24×7, Mathrubhumi Online serves curated content. CSR initiative Student Empowerment for Environmental Development {SEED} sensitises the young on the looming climate crisis and global heating.

    Mathrubhumi Literary Award comprising re. 2 lakh, statuette, plaque and a certificate is coveted by Malayalee writers. While the Mathrubhumi calendar and almanac are cultural markers, the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters, brings the best of global intellects together on a platform for debate and dissent. 

    Mathrubhumi has undertaken relief work in times of natural disasters, from the earthquake at Bhuj, Gujarat in 2001, the 2015 Chennai Floods, the August 2018 deluge in Kerala and the subsequent Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode. Grihalakshmi Vedi and Mathrubhumi Study Circle are engaged in humanitarian work.

    Various activities are being planned for the duration of the entire year culminating in a grand finale on March 18, 2023.

  • IPL 2020 sees further extension as lockdown extends

    IPL 2020 sees further extension as lockdown extends

    MUMBAI: The thirteenth edition of the Indian Premier League has been postponed further with the central government extending the 21-day nation-wide lockdown amid COVID-19 till 3 May. The cash-rich domestic event was scheduled to happen from 29 March but was suspended till 15 April.

    According to a news report of India Today, sources said that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will only be able to review the situation post 3 May when the government would be in a position to come out with further guidelines amid COVID-19 crisis. The richest cricket body is yet to come out with an official communique on the further postponement of the tournament.

    This is for the first time in the history of IPL that the game has been postponed. As speculated, the other windows that are been most talked about are August or October. However, for that, the whole cricketing calendar of the year has to be rejigged.

    Meanwhile, sources speaking to ANI have also pointed out that the IPL is likely to be postponed for an indefinite time period. “Since lockdown has been extended, we have to postpone the IPL for the time being, the decision will be intimated, we will discuss the matter later today,” sources within BCCI told ANI.

    Prime minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended the 21-day lockdown period, which was slated to end on 14 April, for three more weeks approximately till 3 May amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

    “Practically speaking, when life has come to a standstill everywhere in the world, where does sport have a future in this,” BCCI president Saurav Ganguly had told the New Indian Express.

    Estimates are that close to $1.5 billion is riding behind the IPL in terms of advertising, sponsorships and ticket sales. Global advisory Duff
    & Phelps estimates a huge loss of at least $1000 million if IPL gets cancelled due to the pandemic.