In the heart of Jagadhri, where the echoes of devotion intertwine with the essence of spirituality, a grand homage unfolded to honor the 136th celestial descent of Yogeshwar Mahaprabhu Ramlal Ji Bhagwan, the revered custodian of yoga’s essence. Amidst the vibrant hues of Ram Navami, a soul-stirring two-day affair beckoned seekers from afar, embracing them in the sanctum of Shri Yoga Abhyas Ashram nestled in the tranquil Shyam Sundar Puri colony.

The ancient teachings of Yoga have been passed down through the spiritual lineage of these four great avatars from the beginning: Yog Yogeshwar Mahaprabhu Ramlal Bhagwan (1888-1938), Yog Yogeshwar Mulkhraj Bhagvan (1938-1960), Yog Yogeshwar Devi Dayal Mahavdev (1951-1998), and Shri Yog Yogeswar Surendra Dev Mahadev (1997-2016).

Under the sage guidance of Swami Amit Dev Ji, scion of the lineage descending from Yog Yogeshwar Mahaprabhu Ramlal Bhagwan, the spiritual odyssey unfurled, weaving a tapestry of devotion and enlightenment. Swami Amit Dev Ji, custodian of the revered Shri Yog Abhyas Ashram Trust, orchestrated the symphony of spirituality with finesse, bearing aloft the torch of wisdom passed down through generations since the dawn of 1888.

As dawn broke on April 16th and 17th, 2024, a congregation of thousands thronged to partake in the sacred ritual, a pilgrimage of the soul led by luminaries and disciples alike. Among the thousands of devotees were Swami Ji’s younger brother Yogacharya Kartikay (Rohtak), Shri Mahesh Chand Goyal (Sonipat), Shri Santosh Kumar Ji (Hansi), Shri Manish Ji (Sonipat), Shri Arun Johar Ji (Panchkula), Mr. Harpreet Ji (Chandigarh), Ms. Pratibha Bedi (Patiala), Mr. Rajeev Jolly (Delhi), who truly embodied the spirit of the day. Also present were Jagadhri devotees and executive committee members Shri Rajendra Bajaj Ji, Shri Ram Swaroop Dua Ji, Shri Shambhu Dua Ji, Shri Rajiv Taneja Ji, Shri Ashok Garg Ji, Shri Neeraj Gulati Ji, Shri Gaurav Chhabra Ji, Shri Vipin Gambhir Ji, with special support from Mr. Kasturi Lal Vij Ji and Mr. Vishal Garg Ji. It was a perfect amalgamation of religious and spiritual Sangam through Pooja, archana, and yoga.

The labyrinthine program unfolded with each dawn, a melange of prayers, hymns, and introspection, nurturing the spirit and fortifying the soul. From the ethereal chants of Aarti to the sacred fires of Havan, every ritual bore witness to the timeless wisdom enshrined within the Ashram’s hallowed precincts.

The culmination of the reverential journey on the 17th saw the spirited Shobha Yatra, a procession of faith winding its way through the ancient alleys of Jagadhri. Amidst the celestial blessings bestowed upon the divine Shivling of Mahaprabhu Ji, the devotees found solace and abundance, their souls bathed in the golden glow of divinity.

The objective of this event was to promote the well-being of human society and the yogic way of living. On the first day, April 16th, the program started with Prayer, Aarti, Pooja, Guru Geeta, and meditation at 6:00 a.m., followed by havan at 9:00 a.m., akhand path at 10:00 a.m., then Bhandara at 7:00 p.m., and concluded with prayer, Aarti, Puja at 8:00 p.m., ending the day with chalisa and Bhajan satsang. On the second day, April 17th, the program began at 6:00 a.m. with prayer, Aarti, Pooja, Guru Geeta, and meditation. At 8:30 a.m., the Shobha Yatra commenced from Shyam Sundarpuri, Jagadhri, passing through Pataleshwar Mahadev temple and reaching the premises of the Ashram, where Tilak and worship were performed on the divine golden shivling of Mahaprabhu Ji. Following that, Mahaprabhu Ji’s inexhaustible treasure was distributed, enriching the devotees. This event was open to all those seeking balance in life, irrespective of class, creed, or religion, showing a keen interest in learning Yogic practices free of cost. Additionally, local government officials and leaders participated in the celebrations.

In essence, the spiritual confluence transcended the mundane, offering solace and sanctuary to all who sought harmony in the symphony of existence.

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India]: Tamil Nadu-based space startup, Space Zone India, led by Founder and CEO Anand Megalingam, is on the verge of a significant milestone in Indian space technology. The company, headquartered in Kelambakkam, Chennai, has developing RHUMI-1, This rocket, designed as a demonstrator, will carry three cube satellites and incorporates a reusable mechanism. The hybrid propulsion system, utilizing both solid fuel and liquid oxidizer technologies, aims to reduce the cost of hybrid rocket operations while ensuring environmental safety.

Anand Megalingam revealed that the demand for small satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is increasing in India, prompting the company to focus on capturing the small satellite market while employing a Hybrid Propulsion system to ensure cost-effectiveness. He emphasized that testing of the hybrid rocket is being supervised by retired ISRO scientists, with the team diligently addressing challenges associated with hybrid propulsion technology. Megalingam highlighted the round-the-clock dedication of his team towards advancing the technology. The completion of all tests for the Reusable Hybrid Rocket (Demonstrator) is anticipated soon, with a launch scheduled for mid-August 2024 in the coastal region of Chennai.

In February 2023, Space Zone India made history by launching India’s first hybrid rocket, witnessed by ISRO Scientist Padma Shri Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, Deputy Director Ranganathan from Sriharikota, ISRO scientists, and eminent scientists from the Atomic Research Centre in Kalpakkam. The company has developed various rockets like RHUMI-1, RHUMI-2, and RHUMI-3, each tailored for altitudes ranging from 1 km to 500 km.

Additionally, Space Zone India has designed and developed its own ground supporting equipment for rocket launches, creating portable launch systems that can easily be moved from one location to another without the need for large transportation. Following the successful launch of their reusable hybrid rocket demonstrator, the company plans to seek investors for upcoming rocket launches.

Website: https://www.spacezoneindia.com/

Wonderfill India, a company dedicated to solving everyday problems faced by Indians, today announced the launch of a revolutionary Anti-Stray Dog Bite Repellent Spray. This patent-pending, non-hazardous, NABL Lab-tested product offers a safe and easy way to deter approaching or attacking stray dogs, promoting personal safety.

Millions of stray dogs roam India’s streets, posing a significant threat of dog bites and rabies transmission. Wonderfill’s Anti-Stray Dog Bite Repellent Spray addresses this concern by providing a humane and convenient solution.

“We understand the fear and anxiety many people experience encountering stray dogs,” said Rakesh, spokesperson for Wonderfill India. “Our innovative spray offers a simple yet effective way to deter these interactions, prioritising personal safety.” Key Features of the Anti-Stray Dog Bite Repellent Spray:

Non-hazardous: Safe for humans and the environment.

Effective: Deters stray dogs without causing aggression.

Easy to Use: Convenient for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and anyone venturing outdoors. Wonderfill India – Simplifying Everyday Life

Wonderfill India is a leading innovator dedicated to developing solutions for the common challenges faced by Indians. The company’s product portfolio addresses a variety of day-to-day needs, making life easier and more convenient.

Availability

The Anti-Stray Dog Bite Repellent Spray is readily available online at Flipkart, Amazon, Jio, and Wonderfill’s website – www.wonderfillindia.com

Prioritize Your Safety and Your Family’s Safety with Wonderfill

Wonderfill India encourages everyone to prioritize personal safety.  Keep yourself and your loved ones protected with the innovative Anti-Stray Dog Bite Repellent Spray.

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India]: Bharat Fritz Werner Ltd (BFW) a leading Indian advanced manufacturing technology solutions company, today announced the inauguration of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Devaganapalli, in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. This new facility set up with an investment of Rs. 200 crore, brings numerous innovative practices and several unique and industry-first features, including:

* Two world-class assembly halls spanning 20,000 square meters each, with a combined capacity to produce over 10000 CNC machines annually, a 3X expansion. The overall footprint of 54 acres allows for setting up the Vendor Ecosystem in the future.

* Fully digitalized and interconnected manufacturing processes, incorporating conveyorised assembly of machines.

* Environmentally friendly infrastructure with various features designed to minimise carbon footprint.

* In alignment with the Government of India’s initiatives to promote skill development and empower women (“Nari Shakti”), the new facility promotes local talent with a planned gender diversity target of 30%, a pioneering move within the global Machine Tool Industry.

* A fully integrated “Spindle Technology Centre,” encompassing indigenous engineering, manufacturing, assembly, and service of high-quality machine tool spindles, including integral motor technology.

Arun Kothari, Chairman, BFW said “We aimed to establish a facility of global standards for scale and efficiency. I am confident that this facility will aid us in furthering our aspiration of participating in the growth of manufacturing”

“Our teams have innovated many robust machine assembly processes for low Takt time taking inputs from the global best practices across the industry,” said Mr. Ravi Raghavan, MD, BFW.

“The manufacturing sector finds itself at a pivotal juncture. Challenges, disruptions, and innovation have marked BFW’s journey over the past 63 years. To fulfil its purpose of “Enabling Progress ” of manufacturing BFW has embraced the initiative ” LEAP – Leadership thru Ethical practices, Agile Processes and Partnerships.” Under this initiative, BFW aspires to act as a strategic partner of the Global Manufacturing Industry by Scaling up the capacity 3X, adopting best practices of the Automotive Industry to the Machine tool domain, and deploying Technology to evolve a digitally connected ecosystem. The machine tool industry in India is growing at a CAGR of 15 to 17% annually, and BFW is a leader in the industry is growing at 20%.” Mr. Raghavan added.

With an excellent design engineering capability & two state-of-the-art manufacturing plants, BFW provides solutions to meet the performance, productivity and reliability expectations of diverse industries including Aerospace, Automotive, Defence, Die Mould, Forging, Valves, Railways etc.

With 65000+ installations, operating in 15 countries, the BFW Europe office is the most recent addition to better serve global customers with advanced manufacturing solutions. Through channel partners, a wide sales & service network is available at 48 locations in India including 5 tech centres.

The inauguration event was graced by Dr Eng Yoshiharu Inaba, Chairman, FANUC CORPORATION; Mr Vipin Sondhi, Chairperson of the National Board for Quality Promotion, Quality Council of India and Former Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Ashok Leyland & JCB India; Mrs Geetanjali Vikram Kirloskar, Chairperson & Managing Director, Kirloskar Systems Pvt. Ltd, Mr Akihiro Teramachi, Representative Director, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer for THK Group and other thought leaders from the industry and over 50 overseas Global partners of BFW and 300+ senior manufacturing professionals representing various clients and supply chain partners.

New Delhi [India]: The JEE Main 2024 Session 2, which was conducted from April 4th to April 12th, by the National Testing Agency (NTA) has reported a remarkable surge in registrations, totaling 12.57 lakh aspirants. A similar trend was observed in Session 1, which was conducted in January 2024.

The number of aspirants in the JEE Main 2024 exam (Session 1 and Session 2) was 12.31 lakh and 12.57 lakh, respectively depicting growing demand for the national-level engineering entrance examination. In the year 2023, JEE Main saw 8.60 Lakh registration for Session 1, while 9.31 lakh registered for Session 2.

JEE Main stands as a pivotal gateway for aspiring students seeking admission to esteemed undergraduate engineering and architectural programs across premier institutions in India, including the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and other centrally funded technical institutions (CFTIs).

This notable rise in JEE Main registrations underscores the burgeoning interest among students towards pursuing engineering education. Over the years, the landscape of higher education has witnessed a significant shift, with engineering emerging as a frontrunner among students’ career aspirations.

Recognized for its promising job prospects and rewarding career pathways, engineering education continues to attract enthusiastic learners. Furthermore, the emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education has played a pivotal role in fostering a keen interest in engineering disciplines among students.

Analysis:

1. Increase in Class 12 Board Exam Audience:

* Across multiple boards, there’s a notable increase in the number of students appearing for Class 12 board exams in 2024 compared to 2023.

* This increase is observed in both central boards like CBSE and state boards like UP Board, Maharashtra HSC, etc.

* For instance, CBSE 12th witnessed a rise from 16,60,511 in 2023 to 16.9 lakh in 2024, indicating a considerable increase.

* Similar trends are observed in other major boards as well.

2. Impact on JEE Main Registrations:

* The increase in the number of students appearing for Class 12 board exams directly correlates with an increase in JEE Main exam registrations, particularly in the April session of 2024.

* In 2024, there’s a significant surge in JEE Main registrations for both January and April sessions compared to the previous year.

* The April session of JEE Main 2024 saw an increase from 931,334 registrations in 2023 to 1,257,000 registrations in 2024, indicating a substantial rise.

Conclusion:

* The rise in the number of students appearing for Class 12 board exams, especially in CBSE and state boards, has led to a proportional increase in JEE Main exam registrations in 2024, particularly in the April session.

* This trend underscores the growing interest and participation of students in higher education and competitive exams like JEE Main.

Vivek Jain, Chief Business Officer – Shiksha, sharing his insights says: “JEE Main exam has always been the first choice of engineering aspirants and the numbers this year confirm that it remains so. In 2024, there’s remarkable increase in JEE Main registration compared to previous years, for both January and April sessions. With seven new IITs, 605 additional seats and 25 new branches, candidates have more options now. It has also been seen that candidates are increasingly getting inclined towards IITs, NITs, and IIITs over state level institutions.

With the increase in number of engineering institutions providing popular and niche branches, students today have more options to pursue their dream in the field of engineering which is reflected in massive number of increase in JEE Main registration.”

Shiksha.com, a leading educational platform, has covered the JEE Main exam by engaging with students directly at exam centers. Our dedicated team conducted comprehensive interactions with students to gauge their exam experiences, challenges encountered, areas of confidence, and overall preparedness. Through these engagements, we aimed to delve deeper into students’ preferences regarding engineering colleges and their chosen fields of study.

Engineering Education Expands: New IITs, More Seats Offered

The number of IITs has seen a notable increase, with seven new ones established recently, namely IIT Jammu, IIT Dharwad, IIT Bhilai, IIT Goa, IIT Palakkad, IIT Tirupati, and IIT Dhanbad. This expansion has resulted in a total of 605 additional seats across 25 new branches within these institutions, broadening the choices available to engineering aspirants.

In the upcoming admissions, a total of 57,152 seats across 23 IITs, 32 NITs, 26 IIITs, and 33 GFTIs will be offered. Students are given the opportunity to select from 813 branches across 119 colleges through online registration and choice filing, with the deadline set for June 28.

Comparing this year’s admissions to the previous year, there has been a noticeable increase in available seats: 17,385 seats (including supernumerary seats) in IITs, 23,954 seats in NITs, 7,746 seats in IIITs, and 8,067 seats in GFTIs will be available this year, as opposed to 16,598 seats in IITs, 23,994 seats in NITs, 7,126 seats in IIITs, and 6,759 seats in GFTIs last year. This reflects an increase of 787 seats in IITs, 620 seats in IIITs, and 1,308 seats in GFTIs, totaling 2,675 additional seats this year.

According to our interactions, the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) reign supreme as the most sought-after institutions among students. The aspiration to secure a seat in an IIT reflects the esteemed reputation and aspirational value associated with these premier establishments. This reaffirms the enduring dominance of IITs as the preferred choice among engineering aspirants, underscoring their legacy and academic excellence.

Furthermore, students expressed their appreciation for the transparency and fairness of the JEE Main exam as a standardized assessment. Their insights also shed light on their expectations from prospective colleges, including a focus on quality education, state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, as well as internship and placement opportunities.

Seats going vacant in state Engg colleges in Gujarat

In February this year, the Gujarat government acknowledged a concerning trend of increasing vacancies in the state’s engineering colleges. This decline in admissions is attributed to a growing preference among students for institutes like IITs, NITs, and IIITs, as well as opportunities for higher studies abroad.

The government’s response to a question raised by senior Congress MLA Arjun Modhwadia revealed stark statistics: out of 71,629 available seats, only 30,000 were filled in 2022, and the numbers didn’t fare much better in 2023. Similarly, diploma engineering seats also experienced high vacancies. Despite a total of 1,40,852 degree and diploma engineering seats across the state, a significant portion remains unoccupied, posing challenges for the state’s educational landscape.

Similar trends have been observed in other state engineering colleges across the country.

For those who have appeared in the JEE Main result, Shiksha.com offers invaluable tools such as the JEE Main Rank Predictor and JEE Main College Predictor. These tools empower students to estimate their potential rank and explore prospective colleges based on their JEE Main scores. The JEE Main 2024 College Predictor assists students in predicting probable colleges based on the ranks estimated by the JEE Main 2024 Rank Predictor.

The JEE Rank Predictor tool utilizes various parameters, including past year cutoff marks, seat allocation, and category-wise distribution, to provide students with an approximation of their expected rank in JEE Main 2024. To leverage these predictive tools, students are encouraged to register on Shiksha.com and input their expected JEE Main 2024 scores.

For more information on JEE Main rank predictor tool you can visit Shiksha @ https://www.shiksha.com/engineering/jee-main-rank-predictor

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Contact Name: Ahmad Raza

Company Name: Shiksha.com

Email: mohammad.r@shiksha.con

Country: India

Phone Number: +91 120 303 4092

Web URL: https://www.shiksha.com/

Mr. N.S. Venkatesh, the highly respected financial professional who headed the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) as its CEO from 2017 to 2023, besides holding top positions in prestigious banks and financial institutions, is now embarking on a new chapter in his illustrious career. He now takes charge as the Chairman of Athachi Finserv – a bespoke investment services organization that offers end-to-end long-term wealth creation solutions to discerning investors offering the entire spectrum of investment & saving products including Mutual Funds, Equities, and Debt-based instruments, besides tax and estate planning solutions.

Athachi Finserv is a part of Athachi Group, which has sustainability in its heart, and ethical values as its core. A second-generation organization committed to the cause of preserving, protecting, and nurturing nature, and bringing back the ancient Indian wisdom to limelight, the conglomerate is passionately involved in nature-based Farm Produce, Ultra Luxury Skin & Personal Care, Premium Wellness Products, Investment Management, Financial Advisory, Renewable Energy etc.

In fact, joining Athachi Finserv is more of a homecoming of sorts for Mr. Venkatesh, who too originally hails from the region. But there is more to him joining the Athachi group as Mr. Venkatesh is particularly drawn to the organization’s strong foundation in financial prudence, responsible investment practices, and great transparency in all their deals. Values that closely align with his own beliefs.

Leading the Charge

Mr. Venkatesh brings a great wealth of experience spanning over four decades to Athachi. During his successful tenure as the CEO of AMFI, he oversaw the remarkable growth of the Mutual Fund industry, with Assets Under Management (AUM) rising from INR 22 Lakh Crore to cross 50 Lakh Crore, while the SIPs jumped manifold – from INR 3,500 Crore to 18,000 Crore. The fact that these feats were achieved when two major disruptions of our times happened – Demonetization and Covid – says a lot about his leadership and vision.

He played a pivotal role in several impactful initiatives, including the widely acclaimed “Mutual Fund Sahi Hai” campaign, which effectively promoted financial literacy and empowered countless individuals to make informed investment decisions, leading to investor participation experiencing a significant rise.

Commitment to Ethical and Sustainable Practices

Beyond his impressive professional achievements, Mr. Venkatesh is known for his unwavering commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. This resonates deeply with Athachi Finserv’s core values, as evidenced by their focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. In fact, he launched India’s first green financing initiative (ECB) to fund assets in India from IDBI. He sees this shared commitment to responsible conduct as a cornerstone for building a future where financial success and sustainability go hand in hand.

Expansion, Impact, and Empowering Individuals

Mr. Venkatesh envisions Athachi Finserv expanding its footprint and becoming a prominent player not only regionally but also nationally, while contributing significantly to expansion of the investor universe. As someone who has pioneered the launch of Apps-based investment choices, and overseen the spread of many FinTech companies, he feels confident that technology will democratize saving systems and will improve investments.

Committed to his mission of promoting financial literacy and empowering individuals through responsible investment practices, he vows to continue his work of helping Indians take informed decision that will secure their financial future.

A Shared Journey of Success

Mr. Venkatesh expressed confidence in the existing team of Athachi Finserv, and their proven track record. Appreciating their attitude and values, he feels delighted to guide the team with the right strategies that will propel the organization to be among the leading financial service providers, not just in South, but the whole of India.

Rishikesh: Since the pandemic in 2020, online learning has become quite popular in all areas of education. Gyan Yog Breath, a renowned yoga institute, has established a comprehensive online yoga teacher training program that caters to the modern lifestyle while upholding the traditional principles of yoga.

There are three main types of online yoga teacher training programs: the 200 hour online yoga teacher training, 300 hour online yoga teacher training, and 500 hour online yoga teacher training. The 200 hour training is foundational, covering basic concepts, asanas, and teaching methodologies. The 300 hour program builds upon this foundation, delving deeper into advanced techniques and specialized areas like therapeutic yoga. The comprehensive 500 hour training encompasses both 200 and 300 hours consecutively.

The main benefits of completing an online yoga teacher training are shared below:

Flexibility: An online yoga teacher training offers a self-paced learning environment, allowing individuals to study at their own convenience. Live classes conducted via platforms like Zoom are flexible and can be scheduled according to participants’ availability, making it suitable for parents, professionals, or anyone with a busy schedule. The flexibility to learn from anywhere eliminates the need for extensive travel, making it a convenient option for those who cannot commit to long-distance journeys or extended time away from home.

Learning from Home: One of the key advantages of online yoga teacher training is the ability to learn from the comfort of one’s home. Participants can create a dedicated space for practice and study, eliminating the need for commuting to a physical location. This setup fosters a conducive learning environment where individuals can focus without distractions, enhancing the overall learning experience and retention of knowledge.

International Accreditation and Certification: The online yoga teacher training offered by Gyan Yog Breath provides international accreditation and certification by Yoga Alliance. This recognition ensures that the training meets global standards and is accepted worldwide, enhancing the credibility and marketability of participants as certified yoga teachers. The certification process typically involves assessments and evaluations to ensure proficiency in teaching yoga effectively and safely.

No Travel Cost: Another significant benefit of an online yoga teacher training is the elimination of travel-related expenses. Participants can save on costs associated with transportation, accommodation, and meals that would typically be incurred during in-person training. This cost-saving aspect makes an online yoga teacher training more affordable and accessible to a wider audience, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds and financial means to pursue their passion for yoga teaching without financial constraints.

An online yoga teacher training offers a myriad of benefits that cater to the evolving needs and lifestyles of modern learners. Gyan Yog Breath’s comprehensive online yoga teacher training combines flexibility, convenience, accreditation, and cost-effectiveness, making it an excellent choice for individuals passionate about embarking on a fulfilling journey towards becoming certified yoga teachers.

Gyan Yog Breath offers both online and offline education in yoga. The most popular trainings besides the online yoga teacher training are the 18-day 200 hour yoga teacher training in India, the 21-day 300 hour yoga teacher training in India and the 40-day 500 hour yoga teacher training in India. All courses are Yoga Alliance registered and certified. As RYT-200, after completing at least 200 hours of yoga teacher training, teachers can specialize in various fields such as fertility yoga, kids yoga and prenatal yoga.

To learn more about Gyan Yog Breath’s yoga teacher training courses, visit www.gyanyogbreath.com

Ahmedabad, Gujarat – The MUSE Creative and Design Awards have unveiled their winners for the first competitive season of 2024. Hosted by the International Awards Associate (IAA), these competitions received over 8,500 entries from across the globe, affirming their position as prestigious programs honoring creative and design professionals.

In the first competitive season of 2024, De Icebreaker Creative Studio earns the  Gold and Silver award in the competition. The work that led to this victory was created by Pankti Sheth and team for Magic Bites that bagged the gold award and Revolt, Truangle Technologies LLP that bagged the Silver award.

“We’re overjoyed to receive the prestigious MUSE Design Awards for our work with Magic Bites and Revolt Beverages! Winning the Gold award for our vibrant Kix packaging and mischievously fun Kixster character design fills us with pride. It’s a testament to our commitment to infusing color and joy into every project. Our collaboration with Magic Bites allowed us to create packaging that not only catches the eye but also captures the playful spirit of their snacks.

Moreover, receiving the Silver award for our Revolt Beverages packaging, featuring our unique

Devnagri font inspired by Ram Vilas Paswan’s vision to incorporate Hindi or regional language on FMCG packaging, is truly an honor. We believe in embracing diversity and celebrating culture through design. We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring happiness and innovation to the world of FMCG snacks and beverages.” – De Icebreaker Creative Studio

The MUSE Awards encompass a range of competitions designed to recognize excellence across diverse fields. The International Awards Associate (IAA) ensures these competitions are accessible and fair, guaranteeing that recognition is earned by those who truly deserve it.

“Creativity knows no bounds; it’s the cornerstone of every great design. At IAA, we’re committed to honoring and promoting the brilliance and originality that propel the creative process forward,” explained Thomas Brandt, spokesperson of IAA. He continued, “With every stroke of genius, we’re reminded of the boundless potential of human imagination.”

Comprised of industry professionals, the jury panel at IAA upheld impartiality and applied industryrelevant assessment criteria with precision. The jury’s role was to recognize companies or individuals whose works showcased excellence and drove their industries forward – a goal they admirably achieved.

Grand Jury Panel

Among a diverse pool of applicants hailing from 22 countries, the competition carefully selected 56 jurors. These esteemed professionals are widely respected in their respective fields and boast affiliations with prestigious organizations within the creative and design industries. For example, Executive Creative Director at Grey Pakistan – Fizza Shah, Creative Art Director at Ogilvy Australia –

Alexandre de Mello Collares, Art Director at VMLY&R São Paulo – Felipe Paganoti, Chairman of

Asia MarTech Society – Ken Ip, Creative Director at BEAMY – Ronn Lee, Creative Director at Saatchi

& Saatchi MEA – Augusto Correia, Founder and Creative Director of RCBD – Ralph Christian

Bremenkamp, Senior Architect at Tiago do Vale Architects – Tiago do Vale, Creative Director at

Kre8ive Partners – Mark Turner, Associate Principal / BIM Lead / Adjunct Professor at Kohn Pedersen Fox; Kean University – Yafei Zhang, Creative Director, MRM / McCann and Makina & Co – Danilo Villanueva, to name a few.

 Aside from utilizing industry-relevant standards in judging entries, impartiality was also maintained through the blind judging method. This approach involved evaluating entries independently, without comparing them to other submissions, ensuring that each winning work was recognized solely based on its own merits.

Participation of International Brands

As an international award platform, the MUSE Creative and Design Awards attracted entries from internationally renowned organizations. Some submissions were directly made by these companies, while others were submitted by entrants who had produced work for them. Direct submissions featured recognizable names such as Coach, NBCUniversal, CJ ENM, Gravity Global, Hong Kong Tourism Board, Aedas, Les Ateliers Louis Moinet SA, Ltd, Bells + Whistles, and Geely Design; while indirect submissions included Lay’s / Netflix, Mattel, KFC, Walt Disney Studios, Warner Bros. Entertainment, Google, Nikon, Spotify, Mercedes-Benz, Leica Geosystem, Bank of The Philippine Islands, Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd, and Genesis.

“Celebrating the exceptional talent and creativity of individuals who are making a positive impact on their industries is a source of immense pride for IAA,” Thomas remarked. “Their dedication to excellence serves as a beacon of inspiration, guiding aspiring creatives worldwide toward their own remarkable achievements.”

About International Awards Associate (IAA) 

Established in 2015, the International Awards Associate (IAA) is a global organization dedicated to recognizing professional excellence and outstanding achievements in various industries. As the organizer of a wide range of prestigious award programs such as the MUSE Creative Awards, MUSE Design Awards, Vega Digital Awards, NYX Awards, NYX Game Awards, TITAN Business Awards, TITAN Property Awards, London Design Awards, NY Product Design Awards, and many more, IAA aims to honor, promote, and encourage professional excellence, from industry to industry, internationally and domestically, through award platforms that are industry-appropriate.

Website: MUSE Creative Awards / MUSE Design Awards

Facebook: MUSE Awards

Twitter: MUSE Awards

Instagram: MUSE Awards

Gold prices renewed their all-time high last week, rising above $2,400. However, events in the Middle East at the end of the same week provoked a sell-off in the financial markets. Read the article to find out if gold will be a safe haven in times of geopolitical tensions.

Since the beginning of the year, gold has been up more than 15%, making it the best-performing asset class since the beginning of 2024. The rise happened because of the increased demand from central banks and the fact that more investors were interested in buying physical gold through gold ETFs. Additionally, the weak U.S. dollar, which opposes gold’s value, also contributed to this increase.

However, two consecutive events interrupted the stable trend last week. A weak U.S. inflation report, followed by increasing tensions in the Middle East, caused gold to drop by over $100 in one trading session. The sudden wave of sell-offs naturally worries investors, and they wonder whether gold will continue its growth in 2024.

Weak U.S. macro data makes for a strong dollar and plays against gold’s rise

The trigger was the inflation report, which showed that prices in the U.S. are rising faster than expected. The current price growth rate at core inflation was approaching the 2% target in the middle of last year but failed to stick to that level. Towards the end of 2023, the price growth rate started picking up, reaching around 4-4.5% by April 2024, which is quite high for the U.S. This means we shouldn’t expect a rate cut anytime soon.

Here is what the Fed representatives say about it:

* ‘If inflation remains high, another rate hike may be needed altogether<…>prefer not to discuss a cut at all’, the quote from Governor Michelle W. Bowman

* ‘There is no rush to turn monetary policy around’, the quote from Susan M. Collins, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston

* ‘Forecast for the start of the key rate cut is highly ambiguous, and there are no optimists’, the quote from John C. Williams, the president and CEO of the New York Fed

It is quite natural that traders have revised their views on the Federal Reserve’s early reduction of interest rates. The dollar rallied in response, posting its strongest weekly gain since 2022. A strong dollar reduces the investment appeal of gold, which is essentially on the other side of the scale.

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East bring a nervous note

Gold dropped sharply at the end of last week as investors shifted towards riskier assets, mainly due to its strong connection with the U.S. dollar.

However, in the long term, gold will continue to be considered a safe haven for investors, especially during storms in the global political arena.

The greater the tensions, the greater the demand for the yellow metal. That’s partly why gold’s rise at this past event was subdued–the Iranian strike is estimated to have caused only limited damage to Israel, and the Israeli government has said there are no immediate plans to retaliate.

We have two vital factors at the start of the new quarter. When forecasting the price of gold, we should pay more attention to the state of the economy and the dynamics of U.S. interest rates and less attention to geopolitical conflicts, as we have already mentioned that the effect is limited.

Thus, the gold price will likely experience a downtrend, which will continue until the U.S. FOMC meeting on 12 June 2024, when the financial markets will remain Risk-on.

Octa is a global broker that has been providing online trading services since 2011, offering its clients a wide scope of tradable instruments, including gold and popular stock indices.

Their dedication is evident as they invest significant hours in studying, revising, and staying updated with current affairs. However, in the end, their outcomes diverge, with Ajay successfully qualifying for the prelims exam while Vijay falls short.

The crucial difference lies in their approach to revision & practice. Ajay recognized the transformative power of revision with integration of mock tests in his study schedule.Whereas, plagued by the vice of procrastination, Vijay often postponed taking mock tests and prioritizing mechanical revision over rigorous practice, leading to a gap in his preparation.

This dichotomy highlights a vital lesson for all the aspirants preparing for the Civil Services Prelims Exam i.e the significance of actively engaging with mock tests during revision. We all embody aspects of both Ajay and Vijay in our UPSC preparation journey, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and strategic approach to succeed in this exam.

Strategies for Success: Bridging the Gap with Mock Tests

Consistent Practice
Consistency is key in UPSC preparation. As evident from Ajay’s success, regular practice through mock tests is essential in maintaining momentum, honing exam skills, and reinforcing knowledge across diverse exam topics.

Strategic Analysis
As exemplified by Vijay’s gaps in his preparation, aspirants must actively engage in detailed analysis of mock test performances. Understanding areas of weakness and devising targeted improvement plans based on feedback are crucial for gradual progress in Civil Services Preliminary Exam preparation.

Time Management Refinement
Efficient time management is a non-negotiable skill for success in the UPSC Prelims Examination. By simulating exam conditions, aspirants can practice effective time allocation and optimize question-solving techniques and strategies.

Confidence Building
Confidence is the cornerstone of a successful exam attempt. Regular exposure to mock tests not only enhances knowledge but also instills a sense of self-belief and mental preparedness to face the exam with resilience. Confidence fills the void between preparation and failure.

The Road Ahead: Recommendations for Aspiring Civil Servants

Create a Structured Study Plan
It’s important to strike a balance in preparation between General Studies and Current Affairs. Also, aspirants must develop a comprehensive study schedule that includes dedicated time for mock tests. Prioritize regular practice sessions to fortify grasp on diverse subjects and stay aligned with exam objectives.

Seek Mentorship
Seek guidance and feedback from experienced mentors to enhance your mock test performances. Their insights can provide valuable perspectives and tailored strategies for improvement not only in upcoming mock tests but also in the UPSC Prelims exam.

Embrace a Growth Mindset
Stay resilient in the face of setbacks and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Cultivate a growth mindset that fosters continuous learning, adaptability, and a positive outlook towards overcoming obstacles.

Realistic Simulation
To bridge the gap effectively, aspirants must strive to replicate real exam conditions during mock tests. This includes adhering to time limits, ignoring exam-time distractions, and maintaining a disciplined approach throughout the test.

Abhyaas Prelims 2024: Navigating the Path to Success
Abhyaas Prelims 2024, All India Prelims Mock Test Series is an indispensable opportunity for aspirants to assess prelims preparation and enhance their readiness for the final UPSC Prelims exam. The nationwide initiative is designed to simulate the UPSC Prelims-like environment covering the entire syllabus with GS and CSAT tests being conducted on the same date.

Abhyaas Prelims is held across 100+ cities in the country in the offline mode. The schedule of the tests i.e. 21st April, 12th May, and 26th May provides aspirants with sufficient time to assess, improve and master their preparation with following advantages.

  • All India Ranking: Offers a comparative analysis with peers nationwide, providing a realistic gauge of where aspirants stand in the larger competitive landscape.
  • Performance Analysis: Delivers both macro and micro insights, including difficulty level and question’s nature wise, enabling a granular review of test-taking skills and knowledge application.
  • Live Test Discussion: Facilitates an interactive discussion post-test, allowing for immediate clarification of doubts and strategies for improvement.
  • Personalized Mentoring Support: Provides guidance and constructive feedback, focusing on individual strengths and weaknesses which enhances problem-solving skills, and thereby boosts confidence.

Therefore, as aspiring civil servants, it’s crucial to create a structured study plan that includes regular mock tests, seek mentorship for personalized guidance, and embrace a growth mindset to overcome the last moment challenges. Abhyaas Prelims 2024 offers a comprehensive platform to assess, improve, and master your preparation, providing invaluable insights and support to navigate the path to success in the UPSC Prelims Examination.

Just as Ajay’s strategic approach led to success while Vijay’s lack of proper & timely practice resulted in setback, your dedication, and proactive engagement with mock tests will determine your readiness for the final exam. Embrace the opportunities presented by Abhyaas Prelims 2024 to refine your skills, enhance your confidence, and excel in your pursuit of becoming a civil servant.

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