Academic

Identifying the Issue

• Cancer is the most feared and deadly disease worldwide
• Treatment of cancer is limited because of the limited functional molecules available

Objective of the Research

• To synthesize novel acetal derivatives of arjunolic acid and to study their anti-cancer properties

Who should read this?

Research community working in anti-cancer drug development, medicinal chemists, and pharmaceutical industry

Solution

Development of nontoxic small molecules with high therapeutic effect and selectivity

Key Features and Benefits

• The synthesized acetals of arjunolic acid show promising anti-cancer properties
• Arrest the cell cycle of cancer cells at the G₂/M phase
• These compounds have better anti-cancer properties than arjunolic acid

Impact

• Potent compounds from this study have better anti-cancer properties than the parent compound arjunolic acid
• Effective against colon cancer
• Lead compounds from this study offer new and more effective treatment options for colon cancer

Team

Manohar Bhujel, Lakshminath Sripada, Bhuvanesvaragurunathan K., Pandikumar Perumal, Dolly Jain, Nishant Pandey, Avinash Bajaj, Nageswara Rao Golakoti

Title of paper: “Synthesis and anti-cancer activity of acetals of arjunolic acid”

Read Paper Here: https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.202401675

Identifying the Issue

• Malarial parasites (Plasmodium) are becoming resistant to presently used drugs, for this reason, there is a need for new and better antimalarial drugs

Objective of the Research

• To synthesize monocarbonyl analogues of Curcumin and study their antiplasmodial activity

Who should read this?

Faculty, research scholars, and students of Medicinal and Organic chemistry

Solution

In our efforts to design mono-carbonyl analogues of curcumin with potential anti-plasmodial activity, diarylidenecyclopentanone (DACP) derivatives, Ia-Iu, II-V have been synthesized and characterized using ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, IR, UV-vis and mass spectrometry. The structure of one of these DACPs has been verified by single crystal XRD. At the outset, all the twenty-five DACPs were first screened at 12.5 µM for their in vitro anti-Plasmodial activity against the chloroquine (CQ) sensitive Pf3D7. The three most potent compounds (In, It, and Ik) were further tested at <10 µM concentrations against Pf3D7, PfINDO (CQ resistant), and PfMRA-1240 (Artemisinin resistant) strains for determination of their IC₅₀s and resistance indices. The drug profile of the DACPs was found to be very promising with the most active compound It (IC₅₀ 1.39 µM against PfINDO) showing a selectivity Index of ~17 tested using HUH-7 and HEK-293T mammalian cell lines. Molecular docking studies with PfPyridoxal synthase showed a good correlation between docking scores of DACPs and in vitro anti-plasmodial activity. Further, high conformity with Lipinski’s parameters indicates that these DACPs are promising anti-Plasmodial lead compounds.

Key Features and Benefits

• The drug profile of the DACPs was found to be very promising with the most active compound IC₅₀ 1.39 µM against PfINDO
• Diarylidenecyclopentanone deritaives can be further explored as potential leads

Impact

• Potential as leads in the development of antimalarial drugs

Team

Nitesh Tamang, Mamta Yadav, Mayank Joshi, Angshuman Roy Choudhury, Dinkar Sahal,  and Nageswara Rao Golakoti

Title of paper: “Structure Activity Relationship of Diarylidenecyclopentanone Derivatives as Potent Antiplasmodial Agents , published in Chemistry Select, Volume9, Issue43”

Read Paper Here: https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.202401675

The Prize Distribution Ceremony of the Annual Sports and Cultural Meet 2025 for the Sri Sathya Sai Educational Institutions was held on 14 January 2025, on the auspicious occasion of Makara Sankranti, at the Sai Kulwant Hall, Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh.

The Sri Sathya Sai Educational Institutions include Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School (Boys wing, Primary section & Girls wing), Smt. Eswaramma High School, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, and all four campuses of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (Deemed-to-be University).

The ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of students in sports, cultural, and fine arts events during the academic year 2024-25, honoring their dedication and excellence.

The programme commenced at 8:20 a.m. with a grand ceremonial procession of senior leaders of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL) led by the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor, the Institute’s brass band, students chanting Vedam, and a flag-bearing squad. Sri Ritwik Chandra Pandey, a Doctoral Research Scholar from the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science at Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL), welcomed the assembly as the Master of Ceremonies. His address beautifully intertwined spiritual insights with the significance of Makar Sankranti and the Annual Sports and Cultural Meet. The Sports Meet, he noted, is more than talent and skill—it fosters unity, courage, and selfless love under divine guidance. Ritwik celebrated the transformative journey of participants, portraying the event as a spiritual exercise and an offering to Bhagawan.

A series of brief talks by the students of both the School and the Institute followed his address. The speakers were Sri Chittoory Sai Krishna of Class XII, Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School, Ms. Harisri Narayanan, of III B.Sc. Chemistry, Anantapur Campus, Sri Rituraj Pradhan, of II M.Sc. Data Science, Nandigiri Campus, Sri Kolla Vinay Sai, II M.B.A. of Brindavan Campus, and Sri Skanda Krishna of II M.Sc. Bioscience, Prasanthi Nilayam Campus.

The students shared their remarkable experiences of accomplishing extraordinary feats with just a few weeks of preparation, emphasizing that they were merely instruments of Bhagawan’s grace and love. They described how these events became a transformative journey, providing a platform to discover and showcase talents, cultivate humility, and achieve both personal and collective growth. Notable examples included stitching 169 costumes in just two weeks and overcoming fear through surrender to perform daring fire stunts. The students credited their successes to Bhagawan’s love and compassion, which empowered them to transcend limitations and achieve the extraordinary. Their speeches resonated with a consistent theme: pure, selfless love for their Master, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, and an unwavering commitment to bringing Him joy and pride.

This was followed by a talk by Dr. Sai Shyam, Assistant Professor from the Dept. of Mathematics and Computer Science, who highlighted the spirit of unity among campuses, which brought out the best in every student. The participation of international coaches from Singapore and Russia, he said, underscored that there exists just one universal caste of humanity. He described the Annual Sports and Cultural Meet as the biggest festival of love for Sai students embodying the one religion of love. He also shared the touching creation of a 100 x15 ft banner filled with heartfelt messages from students, a beautiful expression and reflection of the language of the heart.

As we celebrate the 100th year of Love, Dr. Shyam reminded us of Bhagawan’s omnipresence. He said Swami represents the ‘1’ as the Divine guide while the “zeros” were the students following Him. Concluding with a poem, he depicted the annual meet as a time of illumination and enthusiasm, a transformative journey of learning and inspiration, guided by teachers and anchored in Swami’s love leaving cherished memories etched in every student’s heart.

The Prize Distribution ceremony commenced with the presentation of the Founder Chancellor’s Cups of Love by Sri K. Chakravarthi, IAS (Retd.), Chancellor of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, to the captains and vice-captains of each institution and campus. This honored the dedication and sportsmanship of the students. Sri R J Rathnakar, Managing Trustee of Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust (SSSCT), awarded the House and Individual Championship trophies to the students of Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School and Smt. Eswaramma High School.

Prof. B. Raghavendra Prasad, Vice-Chancellor of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, presented the House and Individual Championships to students from all four campuses of the Institute. Outstanding students from each campus received the prestigious Sri Sathya Sai All-Rounder Gold Medals: Kum. Gunda Navyasai, II M.B.A. (Anantapur Campus), Sri Sumukha Sreenidhi Boddapati, II M.Sc. in Data Science and Computing (Nandigiri Campus), Sri Thota Hemavardhana Reddy, III B. Com (Hons.) (Brindavan Campus), and Sri Amarjith P.K., II M.A. in Economics (Prasanthi Nilayam Campus).

The sports categories for students at SSSIHL included 10 track events – 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 10000m, 100m hurdles, 4 x 100m, and 4 x 400m relays, as well as 7 field events – shot put, discus throw, hammer throw, javelin throw, high jump, long jump, and triple jump. Additionally, there were over 12 team and individual games such as basketball, football, cricket, volleyball, ball badminton, handball, throw ball, kho-kho, lawn tennis, table tennis, tennikoit, and badminton. In the cultural category, there were over 57 segments, encompassing debate, drama, quiz, orchestra, instrumental, light vocal, modeling, mono acting, painting, photography, poster making, elocution, short story writing, sketching, stotram and Vedam chanting, yoga, classical and folk dance, bhajan antakshari, Carnatic and Hindustani classical vocal, mehndi, cartooning, clay modeling, and more.

A total of 1533 prize winners from SSSIHL were recognized at the event. This included the distribution of 137 Gold, 97 Silver, and 94 Bronze medals. The ceremony featured the presentation of 32 Championship trophies, with 14 allocated to Athletics, 14 to cultural events, and 4 to Fine arts.

For participants from the Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School, Individual Championship winners and runners-up, in sub-juniors, juniors, and seniors were honored, alongside awards for the Athletics House championship, Games Cup, Talent Search Programme Cup, and Overall Championship presented to the respective Captains and Vice-captains of the victorious houses.

The Physical Directors, and the sports and cultural coordinators who dedicated themselves to guiding, motivating, and supporting the students throughout, offered their gratitude and sought Bhagawan’s blessings.

In His Divine benediction, Bhagawan emphasized the festival’s profound spiritual and cultural significance. He highlighted the changing seasons, the joy of harvest, and the arrival of Uttarayana as symbols of transformation and inner purity. Sankranti marks a shift towards light, urging humanity to develop an inward vision and align with eternal truths. Bhagawan stressed the need for youth to embrace sacrifice, discipline, and spiritual values to achieve life’s higher purpose. He expressed concern over the loss of sacredness in music and sports due to the commercialization of sports and music, urging students to practice sincerity, devotion, and noble ideals in all endeavors. He reminded everyone to express gratitude for divine blessings and foster love, peace, and spirituality as foundations for a harmonious and meaningful life.

The event concluded with performances by the Anantapur and Prasanthi Nilayam Brass Bands, Bhajans, Prasadam distribution, and Mangala Aarati to Bhagawan.

View the recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/9sZlXd6SWBc?si=pZNtlgl3D8VK7gM-&t=1387

View Photos

Notes for Editors (About Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning)

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL), a Deemed to be University in Prasanthi Nilayam, Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, India, is one of the few institutions in the world offering values-based education to students at the University level, ever since its inception in 1981. Ethics and morals form the undercurrent of every subject taught at the institute providing its students with a holistic framework of interpersonal development combined with academic excellence. With a merit-based, open admissions policy, SSSIHL welcomes students from all backgrounds—irrespective of income, religion, or region—and provides quality education free of charge.

SSSIHL has four campuses across Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, attracting students from all over India and offering a range of programmes at the undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and research levels.

SSSIHL also provides a strong research environment, with exceptional academic practices, that have resulted in the growth of national and international collaborations. The Central Research Instruments Facility (CRIF), based at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus is one of the few facilities in the country that houses advanced Characterisation / Analytical Tools to carry out Translational Research in various areas of Science and Technology.

For further information, visit: sssihl.edu.in.

Media contact: [email protected]. Tel: +91 8555 287239

The Sri Sathya Sai Educational Institutions hosted their Annual Sports & Cultural Meet on Saturday, 11 January 2025, at the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, Prasanthi Nilayam, Andhra Pradesh. This year’s celebration held special significance, marking the Birth Centenary Year of the revered Founder Chancellor, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

As an annual tradition, the event brings together over 3500 students from all institutions under the banner of Sri Sathya Sai Educational Institutions, which includes Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School (Boys wing, Primary section & Girls wing), Smt. Eswaramma High School, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, and all four campuses of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (Deemed to be University).

The grand event was a culmination of various sports, cultural, and fine arts competitions held at all the above campuses/Institutions throughout the academic year.

The Morning Session

The morning session commenced at 8 a.m. with the majestic ceremonial procession welcoming Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba into the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium. The procession featured motorcycle escorts and the women’s brass band from the Anantapur Campus of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL) and the band from Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School. This was followed by a flag salute by House and Institute Captains of SSSIHL, schools, and allied institutions, escorted by lion dancers and the slow march squad led by the men’s brass band of the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus, SSSIHL. As the Vedam group ascended the Shanti Vedika dais their sacred chants resonating in the air, the Chancellor, and Vice-Chancellor of SSSIHL, along with senior members and student representatives of the Sai educational institutions, reverently offered their salutations to the revered Founder Chancellor.

To commemorate the Birth Centenary Year of the revered Founder Chancellor, students unveiled a 100’ x 15’ banner bearing the words ‘100 Years of Sri Sathya Sai’ alongside heartfelt messages of love and gratitude.

The March Past featured 46 contingents comprising over 2,300 students marching in unison toward the Shanti Vedika dais to offer their salutations. The institute flag, a symbol of unity and commitment, was hoisted, followed by students taking the sports meet oath to uphold the honor and glory of Sri Sathya Sai’s mission. A vibrant macaw mascot soared to the hilltop to light the principal torch, officially inaugurating the 2025 Annual Sports & Cultural Meet. The combined bands of all campuses performed divine renditions, setting the stage for the day’s presentations.

The presentations from the men’s campuses celebrated diversity, creativity, and devotion through captivating themes and stunning visuals. This included – Avatarana, a theatrical tribute to divine incarnations; Celestial Rhythms, a display of harmonious movement; Zorb Gymnastics, combining stunts with Zorb balls; Vishwa Vaibhavam, a dance medley uniting diverse cultures and Emberfang, a high-energy motorbike performance symbolizing strength and resilience.

The women’s campuses delivered an artistic and spiritually uplifting series of performances that exemplified grace, strength, and devotion. This included the Soaring Souls blending yoga and aerobics on poles to symbolize transcendence from “I to We”; Flying High to Greet Sai, a majestic Bamboo Dragon Dance; Mine and Thine, a game-inspired journey of self-discovery; the Symphony of Souls, a dance portraying spiritual unity; and the Ascending Angels, an aerial spiral performance of grace and grit. These heartfelt offerings, rich in artistry and spiritual significance, deeply inspired the audience while reflecting the transformative vision of Bhagawan.

The morning session concluded with Mangala Aarati to Bhagawan.

View Pictures

The Evening Session

The evening session commenced at 4.15 p.m. with a ceremonial procession welcoming Bhagawan Baba into the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium.

Students from Smt. Eswaramma High School opened with Candyland, a delightful performance by young children dressed as sweets, followed by Mystic Marionette, an enchanting puppet act, and A Spiritual Odyssey, a ballet on man’s quest for God. The Girls’ Wing of Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School amazed with performances like Salutations to Saieshwara, celestial dances, and daring gymnastic acts like Daring Dynamos and Mind-boggling Mono-cyclists, culminating in breathtaking formations like Pyramid on Poles. Later, the Boys’ Wing of Sri Sathya Sai Higher Secondary School and Smt. Eswaramma High School added action-packed energy with Super Strikers, Team Extreme, and martial arts in Nunchuc, along with innovative formations in Sparkling Souls.

The grand finale by the men’s campuses of SSSIHL was a spectacular culmination of the evening’s celebrations, blending artistic brilliance, technical precision, and profound devotion to honor the Birth Centenary Year of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

The first act, Silent Harmony, set the tone with stunning visual formations using white and orange umbrellas, symbolizing harmony, unity, and devotion. This was followed by the breathtaking Fire Event, an awe-inspiring act featuring fire stunts performed with a variety of props. Divided into five modules, the performance expressed gratitude for Bhagawan’s unparalleled gifts to humanity—Educare, Medicare, and Sociocare—and celebrated the universal brotherhood He championed.

The evening reached its crescendo with Dragon Warriors, a dynamic rendition of the traditional Chinese Dragon Dance. Students maneuvered LED-lit dragon costumes with remarkable agility and coordination, embodying the qualities of strength, prosperity, and good fortune that the dragon represents. The dazzling display illuminated the Hill View Stadium, leaving the audience spellbound and bringing the celebration to a truly spectacular conclusion.

The grand finale featured a golden chariot bearing Bhagawan’s image, carried ceremoniously through the formations, signifying the glory of the Sai Avatar.

The skies lit up as the theme song of the Birth Centenary Year resonated through the stadium. The event concluded with Mangala Aarati, bringing the 2025 Annual Sports & Cultural Meet to a magnificent close, leaving the audience inspired and in awe.

View Pictures

View the recording here:

Morning Session: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOJBmqw_GJg&t=5454s

Evening Session: https://www.youtube.com/live/Cet-IubVd4w

Notes for Editors (About Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning)

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL), a Deemed to be University in Prasanthi Nilayam, Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, India, is one of the few institutions in the world offering values-based education to students at the University level, ever since its inception in 1981. Ethics and morals form the undercurrent of every subject taught at the institute providing its students with a holistic framework of interpersonal development combined with academic excellence. With a merit-based, open admissions policy, SSSIHL welcomes students from all backgrounds—irrespective of income, religion, or region—and provides quality education free of charge.

SSSIHL has four campuses across Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, attracting students from all over India and offering a range of programmes at the undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and research levels.

SSSIHL also provides a strong research environment, with exceptional academic practices, that have resulted in the growth of national and international collaborations. The Central Research Instruments Facility (CRIF), based at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus is one of the few facilities in the country that houses advanced Characterisation / Analytical Tools to carry out Translational Research in various areas of Science and Technology.

For further information, visit: sssihl.edu.in.

Media contact: [email protected]. Tel: +91 8555 287239

The Department of Chemistry, successfully organized an International Symposium on “Chemistry for a Sustainable Future: Bridging Science and Society” on 13th–14th December 2024 at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus.

Overview

The symposium provided a platform for exploring the current state of sustainability through diverse perspectives from academia and industry. It emphasized the critical importance of sustainability practices and their implementation in contemporary contexts.

Key Themes

The discussions and presentations covered a range of topics, including:

• Green synthetic organic chemistry
• Theoretical approaches linked to sustainability
• Sustainable synthetic routes, such as plastic waste valorization
• Environmental chemistry practices
• Industrial sustainability initiatives
• Applications of solar energy in sustainable practices
• The role of AI in advancing research frontiers

Special Sessions

• Panel Discussion: Experts analyzed the role of sustainability within academia and industrial domains.
• Poster Session: Participants showcased scientific posters on sustainability-related themes.
• Scientific Demonstration: Hands-on sessions captivated attendees and highlighted practical applications of sustainable chemistry.

Expert Contributions

We are deeply grateful to the distinguished speakers who enriched the symposium with their insights:

• Prof. Goutam Brahmachari (Visva-Bharati University, West Bengal)
• Prof. K.R.S. Chandrakumar (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai)
• Prof. Venkata Krishnan (IIT Mandi, Himachal Pradesh)
• Prof. Vinayak Sinha (IISER Mohali, Punjab)
• Dr. B. Venkata Sarada (International Advanced Research Center for Powder Metallurgy & New Materials, Hyderabad)
• Dr. Vishal Khetan (Oerlikon Surface Solutions AG, Liechtenstein)
• Prof. Chandramouli Subramaniam (IIT Bombay, Mumbai)
• Dr. Sampath Koppole (Google, Switzerland)

The symposium fostered meaningful discussions and collaborations, furthering the integration of sustainable practices in chemistry. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all speakers, participants, and organizers for their contributions to this impactful event.

View Report
View Photos

Watch recording

Day 1- Session 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lF8Ffi85qL0
Day 1- Session 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mnFzO6T6ck&t=7s
Day 2- Session 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6GtLW21nAM
Day 2- Session 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TMid9fW7R4

The Department of Management and Commerce, in collaboration with the SSSIHL IQAC, invites you to an online Faculty Development Program (FDP) titled “Building a Future-Ready Academia – Developing Transformative Leaders” from February 7–24, 2025.

This transformative program is designed for educators, academic leaders, and researchers who aspire to shape the future of education in an ever-evolving landscape.

Program Objectives

The FDP will focus on the following key areas:

• Empowering Educators for Leadership Roles
• Promoting Innovative and Inclusive Practices
• Integrating Emerging Technologies
• Strengthening Industry-Academia Synergy
• Fostering Personal and Professional Growth
• Developing Financial and Strategic Acumen
• Aligning with NEP and ESG Goals

Key Highlights

Participants will benefit from:

• Leadership development and innovative thinking
• Insights into Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
• Exploring AI’s transformative role in education
• Strengthening academia-industry connections
• Building self-awareness and strategic decision-making skills

Why Attend?

With expert-led sessions, interactive workshops, and dynamic discussions, this FDP will provide participants with the tools and skills to drive positive change in academia while staying aligned with global and national educational goals.

Who Should Attend?

• Educators, academic leaders, and researchers from universities and colleges
• Individuals ready to take on transformative leadership roles in academia

Limited Seats Available!

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative learning experience.

• Registration Link: Register Here
• View the Flyer: Click Here

As part of the Centenary Celebrations of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Centre for Excellence in Mathematical Biology (CEMB) of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL), in collaboration with the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science (DMACS) and the Department of Biosciences (DBIO), successfully organized a six-day in-person Winter School from 2-7 Dec 2024 at the Prasanthi Nilayam Campus

The National Winter School for Women in AI/ML and Computational Biology (NWSW-2024) was a pioneering initiative to empower women in the interdisciplinary fields of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Computational Biology. With expert-led sessions and hands-on training, the program provided participants with a strong foundation in Mathematical Biology, Bioinformatics, Python programming, AI/ML, and Deep Learning.

The event witnessed participation from 65 attendees, including faculty, industry professionals, and students from across India, and was structured to balance theoretical insights with practical applications.

To explore the highlights, outcomes, and detailed program structure, read the full report here:

As part of the Nayi Chetna 3.0 initiative, launched under the aegis of the Ministry of Rural Development and the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), the Department of Education and Gender Sensitization Cell of Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL) jointly organized a comprehensive Gender Awareness Programme at the Anantapur Campus. Spanning two impactful days, the events aimed to transition participants from mere awareness to actionable advocacy against gender-based violence.

Programme Overview

The initiative was designed to sensitize teaching staff, non-teaching staff, contingent staff, research scholars, and students to gender-related issues while inspiring proactive change. The programme included a poster presentation on December 19 and a Gender Awareness and Sensitization session focusing on Gender-Based Violence in the college auditorium on December 20. The event concluded with a powerful “Call to Action Against Gender-Based Violence.”

Highlights of the Programme

Day 1: Poster Presentation (December 19, 2024)

The event began with a poster presentation at the Department of Education. The posters creatively addressed critical issues related to gender-based violence, including dowry, sexual harassment, rape, trafficking, divorce, and sexual abuse. This activity fostered awareness and set the stage for deeper discussions on these poignant issues.

Day 2: Gender Awareness and Sensitization Session (December 20, 2024)

The second day of the programme featured a series of structured presentations and discussions in the college auditorium, focusing on the following themes:

• Introduction to Gender-Related Issues: The session opened with an overview of societal challenges related to gender, particularly those faced by women. Emphasis was placed on the need to address these issues to create an equitable environment for all.
• Violence Against Women: A detailed presentation on alarming statistics from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) highlighted the urgency of combating violence against women. Participants were informed about existing societal and legal frameworks designed to protect women and the need to strengthen these mechanisms.

Contributions of Notable Women: Students shared inspiring stories of remarkable women who have significantly contributed to women’s empowerment, including – Dr. Rukmini Rao, a trailblazer in social work and women’s rights, Sonali Kapoor, an advocate for women’s health and rights, Tria Sheety, a proponent of women’s education and equal opportunities, Tarana Burke and others. These stories served to motivate participants by showcasing tangible examples of impactful advocacy.

Government Schemes for Women Empowerment: Key government initiatives aimed at empowering women were highlighted, including:

• One Stop Centre Scheme: Offering integrated support for women affected by violence
• Namo Drone: A technology-driven initiative to enhance women’s safety
• Swadhar Greh: Providing support and rehabilitation for women in distress. These schemes were presented as valuable resources for addressing women’s safety, economic independence, and social inclusion.

Call to Action: The program concluded with a resounding call to action, urging participants to raise their voices against gender-based violence. Students were encouraged to challenge traditional gender norms, advocate for women’s rights, and contribute to a society free from violence and discrimination.

Impact and Conclusion

The poster presentation and sensitization sessions provided a platform for participants to creatively and critically engage with gender-related issues. By fostering discussions on challenges and solutions, the program reinforced the importance of informed action and collective responsibility.

The “Awareness to Action” program successfully inspired participants to take concrete steps toward eradicating gender-based violence and promoting women’s empowerment. It highlighted the role of future educators and changemakers in advocating for equality and instilling societal change. The event concluded with a vote of thanks to the Ministry of Rural Development, NCTE, and institutional administrators for facilitating such meaningful initiatives.

The program’s success lies in its ability to instill a sense of urgency for action and inspire the participants to envision and contribute to a world where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality.

The Department of Management and Commerce, Brindavan Campus, in collaboration with the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning (SSSIHL) Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), hosted an expert panel discussion on the topic: “The Critical Cog of Progress: Manufacturing, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship in India” on the 14th of December, 2024. This event aimed to provide students with valuable insights into India’s manufacturing industries, innovations, and entrepreneurship landscape.

The program commenced with an invocation, seeking the divine blessings of the revered Founder Chancellor, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Following this, Dr. M. S. Sai Vinod, the Campus Coordinator of the Brindavan Campus, delivered the introductory address. Dr. Sai Vinod warmly welcomed the attendees and introduced the distinguished panelists for the day.

P. S. Rao, Advisor – Leadership Development, Business Excellence, Rane Group

The panel discussion featured Mr. P. S. Rao, Advisor – Leadership Development, Business Excellence, Rane Group, as the moderator. Mr. Rao began the session with a presentation that covered key aspects of the manufacturing industry, including:

• Importance of Manufacturing
• India’s Global Standing in Manufacturing
• Attractive Aspects of Manufacturing
• Challenges in Manufacturing
• Opportunities and the Brighter Side of Manufacturing

During his presentation, Mr. Rao emphasized the significance of manufacturing as a critical driver of economic progress. He highlighted India’s strides in this sector and the potential for further growth. Sri P. S. Rao, with a lot of clarity, highlighted the opportunities and challenges in the manufacturing sector by providing the latest facts and figures related to the Indian economy. Concluding his insightful presentation, Mr. Rao remarked, “We (India) are truly on a revolutionary path in manufacturing.”

L. Krishnan – Managing Director, Taegutec India Pvt. Ltd.

Another key speaker, Mr. L. Krishnan, Managing Director of Taegutec India Pvt. Ltd., delivered an informative session on the cost of production and the value stream. Mr. Krishnan explained how the cost of production is computed, stating that it is the summation of overheads, depreciation, raw materials, and small miscellaneous expenses. He further elaborated on how the value stream operates, illustrating his explanation with a detailed diagram.

The diagram presented by Mr. Krishnan outlined the key stages of the value stream: Design of Product (R&D), Raw Materials, Manufacturing, and Sales and Marketing, emphasizing the interconnected nature of these processes. Additionally, he showcased India’s economic ambitions through a roadmap that traced milestones from independence to its goal of achieving a $7 trillion economy by 2030. Mr. Krishnan highlighted that manufacturing is critical for job generation at each stage of the value chain. He emphasized that manufacturing goes hand in hand with the service industry, and this interplay and synergy help drive overall economic growth.

Yathiraj Kasal – General Manager & Business Head, Wipro 3D

Mr. Yathiraj Kasal, General Manager & Business Head, Wipro 3D, shared his experiences and insights on the Wipro Group and the transformative impact of 3D printing in the manufacturing industry.

He highlighted how Wipro 3D has contributed significantly to organizations like ISRO and other institutes through innovative 3D models.  Sri Yathiraj provided an inspiring account of innovations happening in Wipro 3D, which have supported keystone projects in India’s space and defense sectors. He noted that these innovations particularly help India reduce costs without compromising on quality, thereby setting a benchmark for the world. Mr. Kasal emphasized the growing influence of 3D printing in reshaping manufacturing processes globally.

Sachin K Jayadevaiah – Managing Director, Aspire Business Solutions

Mr. Sachin K. Jayadevaiah, Managing Director of Aspire Business Solutions, delivered an engaging presentation on his company’s unique products and innovations. He shared details about some of their notable projects, including:

1. Aspire Sprout Auto Analyser
2. Aspire Mango X-ray Machine
3. Aspire Sachet Detection Machine
4. Aspire Fruit & Vegetable Sorting Machine
5. Gherkin Sorting Machine

Mr. Jayadevaiah’s session provided insights into the practical applications of advanced technologies in the agricultural and industrial sectors. He urged students to take risks in business and life by understanding customer needs and leveraging the latest government initiatives that support start-ups. His talk was inspirational, detailing the innovative methods used in his start-up related to food technology, employing AI and IoT in manufacturing.

Key Lessons

• The pivotal role of manufacturing industries and the interplay of innovation and entrepreneurship as vital components driving the nation’s progress in contributing to the country’s development
• Valuable knowledge of the importance of manufacturing industries from experienced professionals
• Encouragement for young entrepreneurs, and students to step up and establish their ventures
• Diverse perspectives on the development and future trajectory of manufacturing industries in India

The event successfully engaged students, fostering a deeper understanding of the current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the manufacturing sector. It underscored the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship as integral to India’s economic and industrial growth.