Kshema brings the gift of Sukriti to Punjab and Haryana farmers

Cultivators in these states can insure more than 100 seasonal crops starting from Rs 499 per acre

Hyderabad, June 25, 2024: Kshema General Insurance Limited announced the availability of its flagship crop insurance product Sukriti along with Prakriti in Punjab and Haryana this Kharif season. Farmers in these two states can now protect more than 100 seasonal crops starting from just Rs 499 per acre.

 

The farmers of Punjab and Haryana face multiple challenges in their endeavour of growing food for the nation. Nature’s fury is one of them. Extreme climate events are becoming more intense and frequent. These impact the farmers disproportionately and causes crop loss leading to income shocks.

 

However, farmers can safeguard their income this Kharif season with Kshema’s first-of-its-kind crop insurance product Sukriti. It offers unparalleled flexibility to a farmer who can choose a combination of one major and one minor peril, most likely to damage their crop, from a predetermined list of nine perils. They can make this selection based on climate, region, location of their farm, and historical pattern. Farmers from Punjab and Haryana can choose to insure their crops against hailstorm and animal attack which are more common. However, a cultivator from neighbouring Himachal Pradesh may decide to protect his crops against landslides.

 

C.V. Kumar, Chief Underwriting Officer, Kshema General Insurance Limited said, “We understand the farmer and their challenges. I am delighted to say we considered multiple factors while designing Sukriti to ensure the insurance needs of farmers are met and our mission to safeguard them from income shocks is also fulfilled. Sukriti is affordable and customisable. Its unprecedented feature means each farmer can tailor-make it to their requirement and wishes. It gives the option of enhancing the sum insured by paying additional premium too. We have also eased the process for farmers to buy Sukriti and file claims.”  

 

Karambir Singh Rai, Chief Growth Officer, Kshema General Insurance Limited said, “A farmer can download the Kshema app from Google Playstore and buy Sukriti in a few easy steps. The app allows the farmer to select their crop, village, geo tag their farm, check premium amount, sum insured, perform KYC verification to complete the buying process. Kshema has appointed Point of Sale Persons (POSPs) to hand-hold those farmers who may need assistance at any stage. A farmer can also call on the dedicated helpline number and schedule an in-person meeting to buy Sukriti to protect their crops from perils.”

 

Meanwhile, the nine perils covered are cyclone, inundation (not applicable for hydrophilic crops), flood, hailstorm while the minor perils include earthquake, landslide, fire due to lightning, animal attack (monkey, rabbit, wild boar, elephant) and damage due to aircraft.

 

Apart from Punjab and Haryana, Sukriti is now available in Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and the Union Territories of Puducherry and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

IZRA Couture By Sameer opens its store in Chandigarh : Tricity's New Fashion Destination

Chandigarh June 23, 2024 Chandigarh's fashion scene is about to be revolutionized with the launch of IZRA Couture by Sameer in Sector 17, the city's premier shopping destination. This one-stop designer store caters to the diverse fashion needs of clients from all walks of life. Conceptualised and launched by NIFT alumnus Sameer Gupta, who brings years of expertise from renowned brands like Monte Carlo and GAP, IZRA Couture offers designerwear for women of all ages, exclusive club shirts and partywear for men, trendy outfits for teenagers and young adults, unique designer kidswear with custom-made shoes and accessories, and glamorous evening gowns and dapper suits.

Chief Guest, Mrs. Ranjeeta Mehta, ( Ex Honoury General Secretary) Haryana State Council For Child Welfare, during the launch of the store said, "I extend my heartiest congratulations to Sameer and wish him all the best for his endeavour to offer something new to the residents of Tricity in fashion."

While speaking to mediapersons, Mr. Sameer said, "What sets IZRA Couture apart is its distinction as the only brand in the tricity area offering designer kidswear complete with customized footwear and accessories. 

Additionally, it stands out as the exclusive provider of men's club and partywear in Chandigarh and surrounding areas. Step into this fashionable wonderland and experience Sameer's incredible design process."

From urban professionals to fashion-forward families, IZRA Couture aims to be your ultimate style destination.

Visit IZRA Couture in Sector 17, Chandigarh, and step into a world where fashion dreams come alive!

Mark the new Fashion destination - IZRA Couture, SCO 14, 2nd Floor, Near Neelam Theatre, Sector 17, Chandigarh.

India's Next Leap in MedTech: Introducing MISSO - The Revolutionary Knee Replacement Robot by Meril

CHANDIGARH : 21st June, 2024 - In a groundbreaking advancement for India's medical technology sector, Meril proudly unveils MISSO, Made in India knee replacement robot set to transform the landscape of orthopedic surgery. This state-of-the-art technology marks a significant leap forward in robotic surgery, promising remarkable outcomes and showcasing the nation's prowess in medical innovation.

Developed with cutting-edge technology and designed for versatility, MISSO offers unprecedented precision and consistency. Its advanced capabilities allow for minimally invasive surgery, which significantly reduces recovery time and enhances patient outcomes. Mr. Manish Deshmukh, Head of Marketing, India & Global, at Meril, says, “Meril is pleased to bring MISSO, which has the potential to democratise robotic knee replacement surgery in India. The prevalence of osteoarthritis has surged from ~23 million to 62 million in the last 20-25 years, making it the second-largest disease modality after cardiovascular conditions.The gap between the need and adoption of knee replacement surgery can be addressed more efficiently by the widespread use of robotic surgery. Currently, the affordability of robotic surgery procedures is a challenge in India. Hospitals also hesitate to invest in imported robotic systems because it requires the training of surgeons and OT staff and a long turnaround time for service-related requests. With MISSO, we aim to address these challenges by providing the platform indigenously alongside an ecosystem of training and support that will make robotic surgery highly accessible, not only in metros, but also in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities”.

MISSO’s technological marvel lies in its ability to integrate real-time data with meticulous surgical planning. Utilizing advanced imaging and 3D modeling, the robot assists surgeons in preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance. This ensures that each surgical move is executed with unparalleled accuracy, leading to better alignment and positioning of the knee implants. The precision of MISSO enhances the durability of the knee implants and also improves overall patient satisfaction and mobility post-surgery.

The introduction of robotic-assisted knee replacements, such as those performed by MISSO, represents the future of orthopedic surgery. This shift is driven by the need for improved surgical outcomes, patient safety, and enhanced efficiency in the operating room. Robotic knee surgery offers numerous benefits over traditional methods, including smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced pain for patients, which means a faster return to their daily lives with significantly less discomfort.

“This launch reinforces our leadership in the segment of joint replacement surgeries and robotics in India. We are also actively exploring the export potential of this advanced robotic system to help India lead in making robotic surgery accessible worldwide,” Mr. Deshmukh, added.

Moreover, the launch of MISSO brings advanced healthcare options to patients in India, offering world-class technology that was once only accessible in the western world. With MISSO, surgeons across the country can provide precise and efficient knee surgeries, improving the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from knee ailments.

Misl Satluj’s Urgent Call for Action on Punjab's Water Crisis

Socio-Political Outfit to Launch Movement within Three Months

Chandigarh, June 18, 2024: Misl Satluj, a socio-political outfit today announced it would launch a massive agitation if the water crisis in the state is not resolved within the next 90 days. This is in continuation of Mudki Morcha demands, which were partially met. The first phase to stop the concrete lining of Rajasthan feeder canal from Harike to Faridkot was stopped.

Ajaypal Singh Brar, President of Misl Satluj while addressing the media at Chandigarh Press Club here, said, “Punjab is facing an acute water crisis. Borewells have dried up, leaving some villages dependent on tankers. The state's water demand exceeds 50 million acre-feet (MAF), but only 28.5 MAF of river water flows through Punjab. A significant portion of this water is further allocated to Rajasthan and Haryana, both non-riparian states.”

 

Brar elaborated on the key issues, leading to water crisis in the state:

Increased water demand due to rapid industrialization: Punjab's rapid urbanization requires river water commercial and residential needs in urban areas. Presently the demand is being met with borewell from deep aquifers, which may contain carcinogenic elements and 22 lac submersible pumps.

Outdated Water Allocations: Current agricultural water allocations are based on outdated pre-Green Revolution levels, providing only 3.05 cusecs for Malwa and 1.9 cusecs for Doaba. These amounts are insufficient and are further reduced by the dilapidated state of the canal network.

Severe Pollution: Industrial waste from Ludhiana’s dyeing and electroplating units is contaminating the Satluj River through Budda Nalah. This waste is often dumped untreated or pumped back through reverse boring. Similar pollution issues affect Taunsa, Rail Majra, , Mohali district and other areas of Punjab

 

Misl Satluj’s Demands:

 

Devinder Singh Sekhon, another senior leader of Misl Satluj laid stress on the demands of Misl Satluj. He stressed on the need to update water allocations by recalibrating agricultural water allowances to 7 cusecs to meet current needs.

Sekhon said river water should be used to supply urban areas for drinking purposes and there was a need to urgently repair and maintain the canal infrastructure to ensure adequate water distribution.

Misl Satluj stands firmly against the pollution of water and air, he said, adding, “We demand immediate action from the government to address major pollution sources like Budda Nalah.”

“We urge the Punjab Vidhan Sabha to pass a resolution declaring Punjab as the sole owner of all river water flowing through the state. This resolution should nullify all previous water-sharing agreements with other states.”

Sekhon said, Misl Satluj was giving the government a three-month notice period to resolve these demands. If these demands are not met, Misl Satluj will launch a stir to press for necessary action.

He added, Misl Satluj is committed to ensuring supply of unpolluted river water for agricultural, commercial and residential needs of the people of Punjab. Our party aims to address these critical issues promptly and effectively. We will not tolerate any delay in protecting Punjab’s vital water resources.

Moonstar Kaur also spoke on the occasion, about the water pollution in the state.

 

A Dangerous Misconception

Punjab has abundant river water but denies Haryana and Rajasthan their rightful shares, causing harmful hostility. In reality, Punjab's river water has decreased to 26.5 M.A.F. Rajasthan takes 11.2 M.A.F., and Haryana 7.83 M.A.F. from Punjab’s rivers, along with 5.6 M.A.F. from the Yamuna and 1.1 M.A.F. from the Ghaggar. Punjab is left with 9.47 M.A.F. Despite its larger area (50,362 sq. km vs. Haryana's 44,212 sq. km), Punjab gets less water. To compensate, Punjab uses around 1.5 million tubewells, depleting subsoil reserves and causing soil and health issues. According to the Helsinki Rules and Indian Constitution, Punjab, as the riparian state, is entitled to its river water. Sadly, Punjab's leaders are not highlighting these facts.

 

First Quarter SMC Training in Haryana: Training Held For District and Block Officials

Haryana 12, May 2024: Recognizing the essential role that parents can play through School Management Committees (SMCs) in government schools, the Haryana School Shiksha Pariyojna Parishad (HSSPP) conducted the First Quarter SMC Training for district officials (Assistant Project Coordinators) and block level officials (Mentor Trainers: Nominated Block Resource Persons) in-person in Panchkula on 29th and 30th May.

Haryana, 1st June 2024, This training was held under the leadership of Shri Jitender Kumar (Director, Secondary Education, Haryana) and Special Secretary to the Government, Haryana, School Education Department and State Project Director, HSSPP, Mr. Myank Verma, Joint State Project Director, HSSPP, Shri Sanjay Kumar, Consultant, HSSPP and Smt. Sonali Vohra, Project Coordinator, (Science), HSSPP).

“The main objective of this training was to strengthen SMCs. SMCs reflect the vision of the community. SMCs ensure that the community’s expectations from the education department reach the officials in the department. It is also important that the SMC is aware of what activities and support are available from the department. This training will ensure that SMCs are aware of this and can help their school better” - Mr Myank Verma, Joint State Project Director, HSSPP

Section 21 of the Right to Education (RTE) Act mandates the constitution of SMCs in every government school across the country. SMCs are a platform for parents, students, teachers, school leaders and local government representatives to come together and work on issues for the welfare of the school. An SMC is a platform to involve parents, social workers, panchayat members etc to play an active role in the planning, implementation and monitoring of programmes running in the school. It is an avenue to bring the needs and aspirations of different people to the table, to brainstorm and align on decisions that impact students. If we consider the school a village, the SMC functions as a Panchayat.

In order for SMCs to function effectively, it is important that they are aware of their roles and responsibilities. Without this awareness, SMCs will not be able to partner with the school for its development. The chances of an informed, involved and invested SMC enabling positive outcomes for a school is significantly higher.

This day-long training, conducted by HSSPP, has initiated an effective cascade, which ensured that the participants of this capacity-building effort become trainers to further support and train officials at the block level and SMC members at the school level. The training was supported by non-profit organizations Samarthya and Anubhuti Samiti. The training witnessed participation from 133 officials across all districts of Haryana.

The session focused on detailing SMC’s role in improving student outcomes, in effectively using the SMC portal and Vidyanjali Portal, in improving school-parent relationships, in making schools gender inclusive, in building key relationships, in showing how they can work as a team and manage their emotions. This information was provided by Ketika Nirula, Director of Programs at Samarthya.

“The trainers were energetic throughout the session. We learnt how SMCs can be activated and how we can train them. We were also shown what an ideal, interactive Parent Teacher Meeting can look like. We learnt about the Vidyanjali Portal and the SMC portal. The whole session was done through activities, which was very interactive. We hope to deliver this message effectively to the officials and SMC members in our districts over the next few months”, said an education official from Rohtak after attending the training.

Earlier, HSSPP conducted Sanjhi Sabha, the statewide SMC formation across 14000+ government schools in Haryana in July 2023. The initiative was celebrated as a festival of participation in all government schools in the state.

As a part of this continued effort to strengthen SMCs, the training session at Panchkula was a step towards guiding the approach of the training of SMC members in 14000+ government schools of Haryana. In the coming months, the effect of the cascade will reach blocks and schools. In involving the administrative officials in this process and conducting frequent training for them, HSSPP has ensured change, progress and participation at all levels.

Active parent participation is one of the main catalysts for enabling change in the public education ecosystem. Parents play an important role in supporting the school in its development by participating in its governance. Insights from parents, drawn from first hand observations of their environment and their children’s experiences, contribute to a much more nuanced understanding of the status of a government school. Discussing and deliberating upon parents’ concerns and aspirations paves the way for a better quality education, ensuring a brighter future for students.

Bridging the distance and bringing schools and communities closer is an uphill task- one that requires systemic efforts and insight. Through this training, HSSPP has taken great strides in forging strong partnerships between schools and communities.

108 Ambulance Service organizes Reward and Recognition Program to encourage the Staff at Mata kaushalya Hospital Patiala

Patiala, 10 June 2024- Leading Healthcare Service provider and proficient medical assistant, Ziqitza Healthcare Limited precisely reliable for handling emergency medical situations in Punjab, today organized a Reward and Recognition Program at Mata kaushalya Hospital Patiala. This initiative aims at fostering 108 Ambulance Staff, to strive for the best services, including the introduction of the prestigious "Life Saver Awards Batch" along with certificates, honoring exceptional acts of bravery and life-saving interventions by the ambulance staff. These awards not only recognize individual efforts but also inspire others to go above and beyond in their duties. 

 This occasion involved conveying recognition and rewarding the EMTs and Pilots by offering them certificates and cash prizes worth Rs. 500. Civil Surgeon Dr Sanjay Goyal presented the awards in the presence of Operation Manager Guramandeep Singh and Cluster Leader Amandeep Singh who were there on behalf of Ziqitza Healthcare Limited. Over 35+ EMTs and pilots attended the program organized and conducted by Ziqitza Healthcare Limited (ZHL).

From now on, such programs will be held every month in all districts of Punjab to encourage the 108 Ambulance staff to work with competence. So, that advanced services can be attained by the patients. Addressing the occasion, Project Head of 108 Ambulance Services, Manish Batra said, “We endeavor to become better in every aspect of our work, whether it’s providing the best medical services to people or acknowledging our diligent staff. I believe it’s important to recognize and reward them and we are proud to start this great initiative in every district of Punjab.”

In The Nature's Lap Opens Its Gates for A Rejuvenating Experience

Get ready for a Breathtaking Escape in Himachal Pradesh with The Nature's Lap

Chandigarh June 7, 2024

Renowned as ‘Dev Bhoomi’, Himachal Pradesh, is all set to welcome a new jewel to its crown with the grand opening of The Nature's Lap in village Nyahi, Salana, Shimla, the Queen of Hills. 

Nestled in the stunning, green and serene surroundings of Shimla, the resort offers a haven of tranquility and adventure to travelers seeking a memorable and rejuvenating escape in the Hills.

Get ready to experience unparalleled hospitality, coupled with warmth and essence of Himachal. The Nature's Lap boasts a number of splendidly appointed rooms, each designed to capture the essence of the charm of the Queen of the Hills, while providing modern comfort and facilities. Guests can unwind amidst the breathtaking views of the valley surrounded with the majestic mountains covered with the Deodar cedar trees.

Directors Ankur, Deepak Kalra, Gulshan Kalra, Neelam, Mohit and Umesh Mehta, expressed their elation during the opening of The Nature's Lap.

During the opening Mr. Ankur said, “We are thrilled to unveil The Nature's Lap as a premier destination for travelers seeking an unparalleled escape in the Hills.”

Adding to this Mr. Deepak Kalra said, “Our endeavour is to offer a memorable stay to our guests through the unique blend of luxurious accommodations, outstanding service, sumptuous food and unforgettable experiences.”

 

Mr. Gulshan Kalra added, this place is for people who had always wanted to turn their celebrations into a grand event and make their special moments unforgettable and cherishable! 

Sharing views about the property Ms. Neelam said, nestled in the lap of mother nature, The Nature’s Lap, is perfect for Birthday or themed Parties, family gatherings, shooting videos, Pre-wedding or destination wedding, where we offer the best tailor-made menus and all luxurious amenities to suit the budget of our patrons.

Mr. Mohit and Mr. Umesh Mehta while expressing their views said that it is a perfect place to reconnect with your loved ones in a serene setting with exciting activities for all ages. Keeping the video and digital thing in mind, we have strategicly crafted and location and placed light so that creators could create stunning content with diverse backdrops and perfect lighting. Those looking for a destination for Pre-wedding photoshoots, this is the place to capture the love story in a picturesque and captivating environment.

DJ Rudd and Mr. Saffi enthralled the audience on the inaugural day with an unforgettable musical experience. Surrounded by mountains and the Deodars DJ Rudd and Mr. Saffi set the stage on fire on June 7 at the newly opened paradise ‘In The Nature's Lap’.

Benefitting approximately 84 lakh beneficiaries of Haryana Antyodaya Parivar Parivahan Yojna

Haryana CM Shri Nayab Singh Saini distributes HAPPY Scheme NCMC Cards 

powered by AU Small Finance Bank

 

Karnal, June 7, 2024: In a significant step towards empowering the underserved communities of Haryana, the Honorable Chief Minister of Shri Haryana Nayab Singh Saini distributed the HAPPY scheme National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), powered by AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB), India’s largest SFB & Aurionpro Solutions Ltd. The distribution event was held simultaneously across 34 depots/sub-depots in 22 districts of Haryana, with participation of state ministers & MLAs, government officials, beneficiaries, and senior officials of AU Small Finance Bank.

 

The HAPPY scheme NCMC Cards are set to provide substantial benefits to Antyodaya families in Haryana, whose annual household income is below ₹1 lakh. This initiative is designed to cover their transportation expenses upto 1000 km, thereby enhancing their access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

 

The NCMC Cards will enable seamless travel across various modes of public transport, making commuting more affordable and convenient for the beneficiaries. Additionally, these cards can be used for various digital payments, further promoting financial inclusion among the Antyodaya families.

 

Speaking at the occasion, Honorable Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri Nayab Singh Saini, said, "This initiative will transform the lives of thousands of residents by offering them the much-needed mobility support. This initiative is designed to improve the quality of life for Antyodaya families, and it aims to eliminate transportation barriers, thereby facilitating access to better healthcare, education, and job opportunities."

 

Mr. Uttam Tibrewal, Executive Director and Deputy CEO of AU Small Finance Bank (this would be confirmed later) said, "We are honored to partner with the Haryana government in this noble initiative. As a firm believer in financial inclusion and community empowerment, we are dedicated to supporting initiatives that serve the unserved and underserved segments of society. The interoperability of NCMC card make it usable across various modes of transport nationwide, including metro, buses, suburban railways and tolls, making it of great value to the beneficiaries.”

About AU Small Finance Bank

AU Small Finance Bank Limited (AU SFB) is a scheduled commercial bank and has established itself as the largest SFB in India since starting its banking journey in April 2017. Established in 1996 by Mr. Sanjay Agarwal, a first-generation entrepreneur, AU SFB boasts a 29 years-legacy with deep understanding of the rural and semi-urban markets and customer segments. The Bank operates a sustainable business model that facilitates credit to the unserved and underserved retail and MSME customer segments while providing complete banking solutions to its deposit and branch banking customers. As a tech-led Bank, AU has a strong digital presence with innovative products and services like 24X7 video banking, credit cards, personal loans, UPI QRs, payments, merchant lending, WhatsApp Banking, Chatbots etc. and its digital bank application AU0101 remains among the higher rated banking apps in India. 

The Bank operates from 2,383 banking touchpoints across 21 States & 4 Union Territories serving 1.1 Cr customers with an employee base of 46,000+ employees. As on 31st Mar’24, on the proforma merged basis, Bank has a Net worth of ₹14,980 Cr, deposit base of ₹97,704 Cr, Gross Loan Portfolio of ₹96,490 Cr and a Balance sheet size of ₹1.26 Lac Cr. AU SFB enjoys the trust of marquee investors and is listed at both NSE and BSE. It has consistently maintained high external credit Rating and is presently rated ‘AA/Stable’ by CRISIL, CARE Ratings and India Ratings, while the Bank’s FD is rated ‘AA+/Stable’ from CRISIL Ratings.

Website:www.aubank.in | Twitter: @aubankindia | Facebook:AU Small Finance Bank | LinkedIn:AU Bank