Saturday 27 April 2024

An Oasis of Fun for Kids: Jus’ Jumpin’, India’s Ultimate Playland, Now at Urban Square Mall

Urban Square Mall, Udaipur’s largest shopping and entertainment destination, announced its exciting partnership with Jus’ Jumpin’- India’s Ultimate Playland. Marking its debut in Rajasthan, Jus’ Jumpin’ is a trampoline park offering an unparalleled experience for kids up to 11 years old, and the opening of its 11th store in Udaipur is no exception.

With an expansive 2022 sq. ft. space, the addition of Jus’ Jumpin’ at Urban Square Mall redefines playtime for little ones. Offering an array of unique and thrilling rides and entertainment options, each visit promises a roller coaster of excitement for all kids. In addition to its exciting attractions, Jus’ Jumpin’ offers irresistible birthday packages designed to make every child’s birthday celebration memorable.

Excited about this partnership with Jus’ Jumpin’, Mr.Uddhav Poddar, Managing Director, Bhumika Group, expressed, “We are happy to welcome Jus’ Jumpin’ to Urban Square Mall, further enhancing our commitment to providing unparalleled entertainment experiences for families in Udaipur. Jus’ Jumpin’ is more than just a trampoline park; it’s an oasis of fun where kids can unleash their imagination and boundless energy. We are confident that the addition of Jus’ Jumpin’ will elevate the mall's offerings and create lasting memories for families.”

संजू राठोडचं 'गुलाबी साडी' गाणं झळकलं 'न्यूयॉर्क टाईम्स स्क्वेअर'वर


 संजू राठोडच्या फॅन्ससाठी आनंदाची बातमी, 'गुलाबी साडी' गाणं झळकलं 'न्यूयॉर्क टाईम्स स्क्वेअर'वर
 'न्यूयॉर्क टाईम्स स्क्वेअर'वर झळकणा-या पहिल्या मराठी गाण्याचा मान मिळाला 'गुलाबी साडी'ला
 संजू राठोडच्या 'गुलाबी साडी' गाण्याला यू ट्यूबर मिळाले ७० मिलियन व्ह्यूज
सिनेसृष्टीत आपल्या जिद्दीच्या जोरावर स्थान निर्माण करणारा गायक संजू राठोड त्याच्या नवनवीन गाण्यांमुळे अल्पावधीतच प्रसिद्धीच्या शिखरावर पोहोचला आहे. त्याच्या गाण्यांनी सर्व प्रेक्षकांना भुरळ घातली आहे.त्याचं 'गुलाबी साडी' हे गाणं सोशल मिडीयावर तुफान वायरल झाल आहे. आनंदाची बाब म्हणजे 'गुलाबी साडी' हे मराठी गाणं 'न्यूयॉर्क टाईम्स स्क्वेअर'वर झळकलं आहे. 'न्यूयॉर्क टाईम्स स्क्वेअर'वर झळकणा-या पहिल्या मराठी गाण्याचा मान मिळाला संजू राठोडच्या 'गुलाबी साडी'ला मिळाला आहे.
यावर प्रतिक्रिया देताना संजू राठोड म्हणाला की, गायक म्हणून सिनेसृष्टीत पदार्पण करताना हे इतकं यश मिळेल याचा कधी विचारही केला नव्हता. अल्पावधीतच एवढं यश मिळालं यासाठी मी स्वत:ला फार भाग्यवान समजतो. आतापर्यंत माझ्या गाण्यांनी  मिलियन व्ह्यूज चा टप्पा पार केला हाच आनंद माझ्यासाठी फार मोठा होता. त्यात आता न्यूयॉर्क टाईम्स स्क्वेअरवर माझं गाणं झळकलं यामुळे माझ्या आनंदात आणखी भर पडली आहे. माझा आनंद मला शब्दांत व्यक्त करता येत नाही आहे. हे सगळं शक्य झालं ते माझ्या चाहत्यांमुळे. त्यांनी माझ्या गाण्यांना दिलेल्या प्रतिसादामुळे. त्यांच्या प्रेमामुळे मला आणखी प्रेरणा मिळाली आहे. चाहत्यांते ऋण मी कधीही विसरणार नाही.अशीच नवनवीन गाणी मी त्यांच्यासाठी कायम करत राहीन.
'गुलाबी साडी' या गाण्याला 'यूट्यूब'वर ७० मिलियन व्ह्यूज मिळाले आहेत. तर 'स्पॉटीफाय'वरही या गाण्याने १५ मिलियनचा टप्पा पार केला आहे.तसेच 'यूट्यूब'वरील जागतिक स्तरावरच्या उच्चांक गाठणा-या  व्हिडीओंमध्ये आणि  'स्पॉटीफाय'च्या जागतिक वायरल गाण्यांमध्ये 'गुलाबी साडी' गाण्याचा समावेश करण्यात आला आहे.

Zee Media partners with Greenply for the celebratory second season of Hindustan Ki Shaan Awards; set to take place in Mumbai on 27th April 2024

Zee Media, in partnership with Greenply Industries, is thrilled to announce the second season of the prestigious Hindustan Ki Shaan Awards. This celebration is dedicated to recognizing India's carpenters and contractors for their exceptional contributions to the interior design industry. Following a successful inaugural season, this year’s on-ground event, scheduled to take place in Mumbai on Saturday, 27th April 2024, aims to highlight and honour the remarkable skills and creativity of these vital artisans in shaping aesthetic and functional living spaces.

Hindustan Ki Shaan Season 2 has been an impactful initiative as it included an active participation from all professional craftsmen within the woodpanel and interior furniture sectors across India, assessing entries based on criteria including design innovation, problem-solving, and the use of environmentally friendly materials. The jury panel included prominent industry figures such as Shri. Rajesh Mittal, Chairman & MD, Greenply Industries; Manoj Tulsian, JMD & CEO of Greenply Industries; Vertica Dvivedi, founder and director of Wade Asia - Surface Reporter; and Rahul Mehta, CEO of the Furniture & Fittings Skill Council who evaluated the entries based on design excellence, innovation in craft, and the use of environmentally sustainable practices and materials. The second season of the Hindustan Ki Shaan Awards will recognize and elevate the appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into creating bespoke furniture and innovative interior solutions, with a strong emphasis on sustainability.

Yatnesh Pandey, Chief Marketing Officer, Greenply Industries highlighted "Celebrating these craftsmen not only fosters a sense of community among them but also builds loyalty among consumers who recognize Greenply as a brand that values the backbone of its industry. Our partnership with Zee Media magnifies the impact, ensuring that the stories of these talented artisans are appreciated on a national scale. It positions Greenply strategically as a leader committed to uplifting the entire woodworking and interior design ecosystems."

With Zee News as its exclusive telecast partner and Zee Media as its digital partner, the event will be covered extensively across all platforms, ensuring that the achievements of these craftsmen are recognized nationwide. This strategic partnership aims to amplify the voices of India's artisans and connect viewers across the nation to the artistry and innovation within the craftsmanship community.

Mona Jain, Chief Revenue Officer of Zee Media Corporation Limited, expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighted "Working with Greenply for the second season of the Hindustan Ki Shaan Awards aligns perfectly with our mission to create social and economic value by spotlighting sectors of our culture that are often overlooked. We are committed to enhancing the visibility of these skilled professionals, improving their career opportunities, and fostering greater appreciation for their work. This initiative is a step towards sustainable development and recognition of these essential industries."

Anindya Khare, Marketing Head, Zee Media Corporation Limited, further addedAnindya Khare, Marketing Head, Zee Media Corporation Limited, further added, “We are immensely proud to collaborate with Greenply for the second season of the Hindustan Ki Shaan Awards. This partnership allows us to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary talents of India's carpenters and contractors, who play a pivotal role in enriching our everyday living spaces with their craftsmanship and innovation. Through this initiative, we aim to foster greater recognition and appreciation of their skills, which are crucial in driving the advancement and sustainability of the interior design and construction sectors."

The award ceremony promises not only to be a platform for recognition but also a venue for sharing transformative stories and discussing the ongoing evolution within the sector. It will underscore the critical role these craftsmen play in not just beautifying spaces, but also in making them functionally robust and environmentally sustainable.

About Zee Media Corporation Ltd

Zee Media Corporation Ltd, one of India's leading media companies, has a strong presence in the news and regional genres, with 18 news channels in seven different languages, reaching more than 528+ million viewers through its linear and digital properties.

 

Motiram, Kanji& Ullal Cup Badminton Report

 Caption: Ishaan and Riya (foreground) of North India Association in action  in the Kanji Cup semi-finals at Willingdon SC on Saturday

Ishaan, Riya take NIA into Kanji Cup final

Ishaan S and Riya V won the deciding mixed doubles encounter to give North India Association (NIA) a 3-2 victory over Chembur Gymkhana in a thrilling semi-final encounter of the Kanji Cup (for Juniors) in the Rs 1 lakh prize money, Motiram, Kanji & Ullal Cup Badminton Tournaments, organized by GMBA, managed by Badminton Gurukul and hosted by Willingdon SC, at their courts on Saturday.

Thea Seth gave NIA the early lead, defeating Avani Shetty 21-11, 21-17 in the opening girls singles, before Zehn M drew parity for CG with a 19-21, 21-13, 21-17 win over Vikrant Negi. Chembur Gym then took the lead, winning the girls doubles, before NIA dew level, with a victory in the boy’s doubles, to leave the tie balanced, with the mixed doubles to be played.

Ishaan S and Riya V kept their nerves, to rally from losing the first game, before winning the close second game and closing out the match with a dominant performance in the third the scores reading 20-22, 24-22, 21-4. NIA will take on Goregaon S C in the final, who got the better of CCI 3-1.

The Motiram Cup (for men) final will feature Spottsify Arena SC against Chembur Gymkhana, while the Ullal Cup (for women) final will pit CCI versus Chembur Gymkhana.

Results:

KANJI CUP (Semi Finals): North India Association bt Chembur Gymkhana - 3-2; Goregaon Sports Club bt CCI - 3-1.

ULLAL CUP (Semi Finals): CCI bt Bombay Gymkhana 2-1; Chembur Gymkhana bt Vanita Samaj – (W/O)

MOTIRAM CUP (Semi Finals): Spottsify Arena Sports bt Club Andheri Sports Club - 2-0; Chembur Gymkhana bt MIG Cricket Club - 2-1.

Aakash Digital student from Hooghly, Ritam Banerjee, Tops West Bengal in JEE Main 2024; Secures AIR 102

Delhi/Mumbai, April 27, 2024: Aakash Digital, the online platform of Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services, proudly unveils the exceptional achievement of its Hooghly-based student in the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2024 second session.

Ritam Banerjee, a student of Aakash Digital, has secured a stupendous 99.99 percentile, thereby achieving AIR 102 and became the state topper of West Bengal. Ritam has also scored a perfect 100 percentile in Mathematics.

This year, Aakash Digital has recorded stupendous results. 6 Students of Aakash Digital have scored 100 percentile in either subjects of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. 45 of its students have scored 99 percentile and above in JEE Main 2024 second session, while 172 have scored between 95 to 99 percentile.

The student’s stellar performance not only underscores his unwavering commitment but also brings to the fore his profound grasp of the subjects tested in one of India's most challenging examinations
Enrolled in Aakash’s renowned online program, Ritam embarked on a rigorous journey to conquer the formidable IIT JEE, recognized globally as one of the toughest entrance examinations. His ascent is a testament to his relentless dedication in mastering core concepts and adhering to a disciplined study regimen. Expressing his heartfelt gratitude, he acknowledged, “My success is indebted to Aakash Digital for its meticulously crafted content and coaching, pivotal in our journey. Without their unwavering guidance, mastering numerous subjects within a condensed timeframe would have been an insurmountable challenge.

Mr. Anurag Tiwari, National Academic Director, Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), extends his heartfelt congratulations to Ritam and other Aakash Digital students who have scored well, emphasizing, “Their remarkable performance is a testament to Aakash Digital’s commitment and determination to providing students with comprehensive coaching and technology led innovative learning solutions, empowering them to excel in competitive examinations. We wish them continued success in their future endeavors.

 

JEE (Main) is structured in two sessions to provide students with multiple opportunities to enhance their scores. While JEE Advanced exclusively facilitates admissions to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), JEE Main serves as the gateway to numerous National Institutes of Technology (NITs) and other Centrally-aided engineering colleges across India. Participation in JEE Main is a prerequisite for appearing in JEE Advanced.

 

Aakash offers comprehensive IIT-JEE coaching through various course formats tailored for high school and higher secondary school students. Recently, Aakash has intensified its focus on developing Computer-Based Training. Its innovative iTutor platform delivers recorded video lectures, enabling students to engage in self-paced learning and catch up on missed sessions. Moreover, mock tests simulate real exam conditions, equipping students with the necessary familiarity and confidence to tackle the examination effectively.

 

About Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL)

 

Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL) is India’s leading test preparatory company that specializes in providing comprehensive and effective preparation services for students preparing for high stakes Medical (NEET) and Engineering entrance examinations (JEE), School/Board exams and competitive exams such as NTSE and Olympiads.

 

AESL has a pan India network of over 315 centres with over 400,000+ currently enrolled students and has established an unassailable market position and brand value over the last 35 years. It is committed to providing the highest quality test preparation services to unlock students’ true potential and achieve success in their academic endeavours.

 

AESL takes a student-centric approach to test preparation, recognizing that every student is unique and has individual needs. It has a team of highly qualified and experienced instructors who are passionate about helping students achieve their dreams. The company’s programmes are designed to be flexible and its teaching methodologies are backed by the latest technologies to ensure that students are well-prepared for their exams.

 

AESL is a subsidiary of Think and Learn Pvt Ltd.

 

www.aakash.ac.in

 

Friday 26 April 2024

Starting your day with a nutritious breakfast can significantly impact your energy levels and overall health, as suggested by TheHealthSite.com, one of the digital assets of IndiaDotcom Digital Private Limited. A balanced breakfast should include a mix of high-fiber carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to support cardiovascular and metabolic health. Some top choices include overnight oats with chia seeds and berries, which are not only easy to prepare but also rich in essential nutrients. Another excellent option is a baked sweet potato topped with peanut butter and either sliced apples or raisins, providing a delicious mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.

For those who prefer a savory start, a lentil breakfast bowl or a quinoa breakfast bowl with citrus fruits or berries can be perfect. Lentils and quinoa are both excellent sources of plant-based protein and are packed with vitamins and minerals, promoting sustained energy throughout the morning. Alternatively, savory oatmeal topped with vegetables or a kefir smoothie blended with fruits and nut butter can provide soluble fiber and probiotics, aiding in blood sugar regulation and gut health.

Avocado toast on whole-grain bread, enhanced with protein sources like eggs or smoked salmon, offers a versatile and satisfying option. This dish is rich in fiber and healthy fats, essential for long-lasting energy. For those looking for a plant-based protein boost, a tofu scramble loaded with vegetables and herbs makes for a nutritious and filling breakfast, perfect for a burrito or a wholesome bowl.

Incorporating any of these nutritious options into your morning routine, as recommended by TheHealthSite.com, can help maintain your focus, energy, and overall well-being throughout the day. Whether your taste leans towards the sweet or savory, these superfood-packed breakfast ideas are designed to enhance your health and kickstart your morning right, setting a positive tone for the rest of your day.


Anytime Fitness Expands Presence with the opening of its 11th Club in Gurgaon

Gurgaon: Anytime Fitness, widely renowned and acknowledged as a pioneer in community based fitness, is thrilled to announce the opening of its latest gym in Sector 109 in Gurgaon, Haryana. Anytime Fitness secured 11 clubs in Gurgaon and completed 14 clubs in Haryana. This club has become another stepping stone to the Anytime Fitness journey.

"We are glad to further strengthen our presence in Haryana with the opening of another Anytime Fitness Club in Gurgaon. Since beginning, our mission has been steadfast i.e to make fitness accessible and enjoyable for all. We believe that true wellness goes beyond physical fitness. That's why we've curated a holistic approach system that provides the comprehensive fitness solution for individuals' lives. We are committed to supporting our members on their wellness journey every step of the way." said Mr. Vikas Jain, Managing Director of Anytime Fitness.

Owned and operated by Mr. Vishal Bhati said, “The new gym offers a wide range of amenities and services, tailored to meet the fitness needs of the local community. From high end equipment to expert personal trainers, Anytime Fitness’ latest gym in Gurgaon is focused upon helping individuals to achieve their health and fitness goals in a supportive and welcoming environment. With 24/7 access, members have the flexibility to work out at their convenience. Moreover, personalized training sessions and guidance in terms of diet charts, shall further be like an icing on the cake for individuals.”

The new gym features cutting-edge equipment, expert trainers, and a wide range of fitness classes tailored to all levels. Additionally, members will have access to amenities such as personalized nutrition guidance, stress-relief programs, and community events aimed at fostering a sense of belonging and connection to promote wellness and fitness across India, helping individuals attain optimum fitness without compromising with their quality of life.

National Release for JEE Main-Aakash Educational Services Limited Marks Astounding Triumph with 13,379 Students Qualifying JEE Mains 2024


5,783 Achieve an Impressive 95 Percentile and Above; 1,288 Secure 99 Percentile and Above
 

  • Murikinati Sai Divya Teja Reddy and Rishi Shekher Shukla from Telangana Emerge as State Toppers with 100 Percentile
  • Rachit Aggarwal Named State Topper from Punjab with 100 Percentile
  • Sanvi Jain Recognized as State Topper from Karnataka and All India Female Topper

April 26, 2024, New Delhi/Mumbai: Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services, proudly announces a significant achievement as nearly 13,379 of its students successfully qualified the JEE Mains second session 2024 examination. The results, announced by the National Testing Agency last night, reflect the students' diligence and determination, coupled by the exceptional mentorship provided by Aakash.

Among the successful 13379 students, an impressive 5,783 achieved a percentile score of 95 and above, while an outstanding 1,288 students secured a percentile score of 99 and above, further solidifying Aakash’s position as a leading educational institution in India. For the April 2024 session 2, 1,179,569 students registered, and 1,067,959 appeared for the exam.

The exceptional performance of Aakash’s students is exemplified by the top scorers in the Classroom programs. Murikinati Sai Divya Teja Reddy and Rishi Shekher Shukla from Telangana attained a flawless 100 percentile, while Rachit Aggarwal from Punjab and Sanvi Jain from Karnataka also secured 100 percentile, each attaining the title of state topper.

Enrolled in Aakash’s renowned classroom program, these exceptional students embarked on a rigorous journey to conquer the formidable IIT JEE, recognized globally as one of the toughest entrance examinations. Their ascent is a testament to their relentless dedication in mastering core concepts and adhering to a disciplined study regimen. Expressing their heartfelt gratitude, they acknowledged, “Our success is indebted to Aakash for its meticulously crafted content and coaching, pivotal in our journey. Without their unwavering guidance, mastering numerous subjects within a condensed timeframe would have been an insurmountable challenge.

Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, CEO and MD at Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the students for their outstanding performance. He said, "We applaud the remarkable achievements of our students in the JEE Main 2024 results. Their outstanding success is the result of their strong dedication, perseverance, and the invaluable support from their families and our esteemed faculty. At Aakash, we are committed to delivering the utmost quality in test preparation, empowering students with the knowledge and skills essential for academic excellence. My heartfelt congratulations go out to all our students, and I wish them continued success in their future endeavors."

JEE (Mains) is structured in two sessions to provide students with multiple opportunities to enhance their scores. While JEE Advanced exclusively facilitates admissions to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), JEE Main serves as the gateway to numerous National Institutes of Technology (NITs) and other Centrally-aided engineering colleges across India. Participation in JEE Main is a prerequisite for appearing in JEE Advanced.

Aakash offers comprehensive IIT-JEE coaching through various course formats tailored for high school and higher secondary school students. Recently, Aakash has intensified its focus on developing Computer-Based Training. Its innovative iTutor platform delivers recorded video lectures, enabling students to engage in self-paced learning and catch up on missed sessions. Moreover, mock tests simulate real exam conditions, equipping students with the necessary familiarity and confidence to tackle the examination effectively.

Celebrating Earth Month & Brightening Futures: Innova Solutions Donates Solar Panel System to The Earth Saviours Foundation

 

INDIA – April 26, 2024 – Innova Solutions, a global digital transformation solutions provider, today joined The Earth Saviours Foundation to commemorate the installation of a 10KVA solar panel system donated by the Innova Foundation to provide power for the NGO’s elderly residents.

Established by the late Shri Ravi Kalra, The Earth Saviours Foundation has long been dedicated to serving the underprivileged, providing a sanctuary for mistreated animals, and making every possible effort to protect the environment. Since 2008, the organization has taken in the elderly and vulnerable, and today, around 1,300 people reside permanently within the NGO's shelter homes located at Bandhwari Village and Mandawar Village, Distt. Gurugram, Haryana.

Speaking from the solar panel ribbon cutting event , Pradeep Yadlapati—President of Innova’s APAC SBU and India Head—stated, “We are thrilled to partner with The Earth Saviours Foundation to bring renewable energy solutions to Indians in need. This initiative is a testament to Innova’s ongoing commitment to giving back to communities—not only in India but around the world. By providing sustainable power through solar energy, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of The Earth Saviours’ residents while also promoting environmental sustainability in the region.”

In addition to its donation of the solar panel system, the Innova Foundation has worked alongside The Earth Saviours Foundation for several years, including sponsoring meals each day for the organization’s residents.

Commenting on these initiatives, Nita Sardana, Chief Impact Officer at the Innova Foundation, stated, “At the Innova Foundation, we believe in fostering holistic solutions to address the needs of the communities we serve.

Our collaboration with The Earth Saviours Foundation is just one vibrant example of our multifaceted approach to transformative social impact. From vaccinating 1,300 girls in the region against cervical cancer to our adoption of several local schools in need of renovation, we are dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals in India and beyond. This solar panel donation represents our ongoing commitment to sustainability and community welfare, aligning with our mission to create lasting change. Working together, hand-in-hand, we can help create a brighter future for all.”

Prehistoric Garden of Eden 'Ubeidiya National Park in the Jordan Valley Opens to the Public.

26th April 2024

'Ubeidiya Park in the Jordan Valley—an archaeological site of world-class importance for researching human history, the oldest prehistoric site in the country (1.6 million years old) and one of the earliest in the world outside of Africa—was dedicated last week in a festive ceremony. The ceremony took place in the presence of the Jordan Valley Regional Council Head, Idan Greenbaum; Israel Antiquities Authority director, Eli Escusido; Israel Nature and Parks Authority General Manager Raya Shurky; Lake Kinneret Authority Chairman Moti Dotan, and the representative excavator of the ‘Ubeidiya renewed archaeological mission, Prof. Omry Barzilai.

The site is located next to Kibbutz Bet Zera, and was first identified in 1959 by Izzy Merimsky, a nature instructor and area resident. A series of excavation expeditions were led by Prof. Moshe Stekelis, Prof. Ofer Bar-Yosef and Prof. Eitan Tchernov. These missions revealed early hominin remains; flint, limestone, and basalt tools; evidence of many kinds of wildlife, including giraffes, jaguars, and hippopotami; and extinct species such as mammoths and saber-tooth tigers.

The hominin who lived in 'Ubeidiya belonged to the species known as homo erectus. A recently published study regarding a youth’s skeleton found in the Stekelis excavation provides a new understanding – the human migration out of Africa was not a one-time event but rather occurred in waves.

After the last excavation season in 1999, the site stood abandoned and exposed to the ravages of nature. Then, in 2021, site excavations were renewed in the context of a focused study by Prof Omry Barzilai on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority and the University of Haifa, together with Prof. Miriam Belmaker from the University of Tulsa in the USA. In its wake, the site underwent conservation and development and is now accessible to the public.

In2022, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority declared 'Ubeidiya to be a national park. Simultaneously, the site was associated with the national project to rehabilitate and revive the Southern Jordan River Reserve in the Lower Jordan River’s northern segment, led by the Lake Kinneret Authority and the Jordan Valley Regional Council. Coordinated efforts by the relevant bodies combined forces to implement the project of opening to the general public. Access roads were paved, as well as a circular pedestrian route with explanatory signage.
This is the first of three site development stages. In the next stage, the original excavation field laboratory will be opened as a visitor center.

Jordan Valley Regional Council Head and United Kinneret Towns Chairman Idan Grinbaum said at the ceremony: “We are proud to be partners in the important project of opening 'Ubeidiya National Park to the public. This is one of the large-scale projects we are implementing to develop the Southern Jordan River Reserve area. I invite everyone to come here and see close-up one of the world’s most important heritage sites and its prehistoric finds.”

Israel Antiquities Authority Director Eli Escusido said: “This is a red-letter day for prehistory. Every year, the Israel Antiquities Authority develops tens of archaeological sites, making them accessible to the public. But 'Ubeidiya is unique: This is a prehistoric site of inestimable scientific importance for researching the beginnings of the human race. Previous efforts to develop the site were unsuccessful due to the lack of appropriate partners to manage and maintain it. Today, turning 'Ubeidiya into a national park as part of the greater Southern Jordan River Reserve promises a bright future. This site will undoubtedly draw visitors from all over the country and from the world-over.”

In the words of Israel Nature and Parks Authority General director Raya Shurky: “We are happy to present to the public a historical site of such importance that links a beautiful landscape to history. The 'Ubeidiya region is an exciting journey backwards in time. The site contains three important areas which connect to one heritage story in the history of our land. First, 'Ubeidiya’s prehistoric site represents representsman’s entry into the Middle East 1.5 million years ago. Secondly, adjacent Tell 'Ubeidiya represents early Israel, based on the inscription of the Egyptian Pharoah Merneptah. And finally, Moshav Menahemia represents the beginning of the Zionist movement; established here in 1901 right in this very district, and heralding Zionism flourishing throughout this region. These three sites tell the story and provide the complete picture of life in this region throughout the course of history until our own times. I thank our partners, the Open Space Foundation, the Jordan Valley Regional Council, the Lake Kinneret Authority, and the Israel Antiquities Authority.”

According to Zvika Sloutzky, Lake Kinneret Authority CEO: “Developing the northern part of the Lower Jordan River was declared to be a national project. This comes after it suffered many years of pollution and neglect, since sewage was streamed here, and it was also used as an outlet for saltwater springs diverted from Lake Kinneret’s north. The project’s purpose is to make this section of the river accessible to hundreds of thousands of visitors who visit this area, while at the same time retaining its nature and character and transforming it into a swimming and recreational area. Many of the components are now completed. The 'Ubeidiya site lies on the western side of the Lower Jordan River’s northern segment, while the river’s entire route has benefited from accelerated rehabilitation thanks to the Lake Kinneret Authority’s efforts here since 2012. Within this framework, restoration works were carried out on the prehistoric 'Ubeidiya site, which has successfully turned it into an attractive and experiential visitor site for the general public.”

The Cradle of Humanity: Additional Background on the 'Ubeidiya Site
The unique 'Ubeidiya site parallels the East African Olduvai Gorge sites, known as the “Cradle of Humanity”, explain Prof. Omry Barzilai of the Israel Antiquities Authority and the University of Haifa, and Prof. Miriam Belmaker from the University of Tulsa.
“ 'Ubeidiya has thirty geologic layers containing evidence of human activity, the earliest of which dates back to 1.6 million years ago. The site’s geology is most important for telling us about conditions on Earth between 2-1 million years ago. During this period, in our region,, there was a lot of volcanic activities, while at the very same time, the Syro-African Rift was widening and deepening.”

Since the area uplifted and became inclined due to later tectonic movements, most of the layers are tilted. This facilitates a journey through time going back over one million years. “Excellent preservation of the site’s material finds enables recreating the Jordan Valley’s early ecological conditions,” say the scholars. “There is a unique broad selection of species to be found here, of which most are extinct, and which includes African fauna side-by-side with European species. The flint and stone tools at 'Ubeidiya served its inhabitants to execute daily activities – butchering and cutting animal carcasses, processing vegetal foods and more. These represent the Acheulian culture, including hand axes, scrapers, chopping tools, and spheroids and polyhedrons.”

To download a video and images: 

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ixum0w69h8686st32bid9/AMbVMGL3586nNt7YQ6Rw4Kg?rlkey=tq0jxweucn9vpbq0a6wm4mhvo&e=1&dl=0

1. Hebrew video. Photography: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authority

2. 'Ubeidiya site dedication this morning. Photography: Shai Isaacs, Israel Nature and Parks Authority

3-4. 'Ubeidiya site – aerial view. Photography: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authority

5-8. Archaeological excavation at 'Ubeidiya. Photography: Yoli Schwartz, Israel Antiquities Authorit

9. Prof. Omry Barzilai, Prof. Miriam Belmaker. Site excavators. Photography: Yoli Schwartz, Israel Antiquities Authorit

10. Hippopotamus ivory tusk from 'Ubeidiya. Photography: Yoli Schwartz, Israel Antiquities Authority

11. Zebra teeth from 'Ubeidiya site excavations. Photography: Yoli Schwartz, Israel Antiquities Authorit

12-13. The site is accessible and open to the public. Photography: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authorit

14. Video with English subtitles. Photography: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authorit

15. Folder with raw visual materials and video. Photography: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authority

About Israel:

Whether road trips, city trips, swimming, wellness, active and cultural trips, rental car tours or family vacations, the Israeli State Tourist Office provides information about the various regions, cities, and sights in the Holy Land. Located in the eastern Mediterranean, Israel is no more than a seven-hour flight from India. The country offers a sunny climate, a wide variety of historical, archaeological, and religious sites, including houses several UNESCO World Heritage sites across the country, displaying an intriguing contrast between the ancient and modern periods.

Experience the dynamic vibe of Israel.
For information about the different tourism offerings, visit www.goisrael.in
For the most up-to-date information on the guidelines and requirements for entering Israel, visit https://israelsafe.com

For more information reach out to us at info-israel@goisrael.gov.il or 022 61370700.

Hitmaker KING Joins Forces with Global Pop Sensation Jason Derulo (jalebi baby fame) for a Summer Anthem, "Bumpa"

This song marks Jason Derulo’s first collaboration with an Indian artist

India's pop superstar, King, and international sensation Jason Derulo, known for his

chart-topping hits, have teamed up to deliver this year's biggest party anthem, 'Bumpa'.

King, who soared to fame with India's most streamed song, "Maan Meri Jaan," gave this

romantic anthem a refreshing spin in a massive collaboration with Nick Jonas, earning

worldwide acclaim. Now, Jason Derulo, celebrated for smash hits like "Jiggle," "Swalla,"

and "Take You Dancing," joins forces with King. Together, they are set to release the

year's most electrifying party anthem.

"Bumpa" features an infectious energy and Jason Derulo's dynamic dance moves,

alongside King’s signature swagger, all of which promise to turn it into the ultimate

summer banger. Shot in Barcelona, the music video showcases both artists with a

talented group of dancers, adding to the song's unmissable vibe. Choreographed by the

French duo Les Twins, who have also worked with global superstars Beyoncé and

Jason Derulo, this track will definitely have you grooving like there's no tomorrow.

King shares his excitement about the collaboration"Working with Jason on

‘Bumpa’ was an incredible journey of creating a global dance anthem from India. I'm all

set to dive into uncharted territory with fresh sounds and music, and ‘Bumpa’ is just the

start. Collaborating with Jason was amazing, and looking to bring the house down with

this banger track!”

Jason Derulo further adds, "'Bumpa' has been an incredible experience. King and I

co-wrote the song, blending our languages and styles to ensure the vibe connects with

listeners worldwide. I'm eager to see India and the rest of the world groove to our

creation."

With "Bumpa," King and Jason Derulo aim to captivate audiences worldwide, promising

an unforgettable dance experience. The song releases today under Warner Music India

and will be available on all streaming platforms. Get ready to groove to the biggest

summer party anthem of the year!

About Warner Music India

Launched in 2020, Warner Music India has rapidly grown as the destination for pop culture in

India with the signing of superstar artists like King, Diljit Dosanjh, Darshan Raval, Jasleen Royal

and Armaan Mallik domestically. The company has also had success with its international

roster with global artists such as Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Alec Benjamin, Anne-Marie,

and CKay storming the charts.

Key investments for the company include acquiring a majority stake in Divo, one of India’s most

established digital media and music companies, further strengthening their hold in the Southern

market. The company also acquired E-Positive which is an Indian Artist Management Company,

this deal further strengthens Warner Music India’s position into independent music and will allow

its artist to tap into new expertise in brand partnerships and live events.

Key partnerships for the company also include a licensing deal with Tips Music, which owns the

rights to some of the most popular Bollywood movies ever produced. In the Punjabi and

Bhojpuri music scene, Warner Music India has signed partnerships with Sky Digital and Global

Music Junction respectively, they have also signed several distribution deals focused on labels

from India’s different cultural and linguistic traditions. They also founded the Maati label,

dedicated to the fast-growing Indian folk music genre.

Russia’s largest business chamber opens 2nd office in India Russian chamber to work with India to grow bilateral trade to USD 100 billion

India is the 5th largest economy and Russia is 8th largest economy in the world. Russia’s largest trade body, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of the Russian Federation, has opened its second office in India in Mumbai to grow bilateral trade and investment in new sectors. Bilateral trade has crossed USD 50 billion and the chamber aims to grow this to USD 100 billion.

All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and MVIRDC WTC Mumbai organised an interactive meeting with a High Level business delegation led by H.E. Sergey Katyrin, President, Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of the Russian Federation.

Speaking at the event, H.E. Katyrin mentioned, “India is a strategic, reliable, old friend for Russia. We already have a representative office in Delhi and now we are here to inaugurate the 2nd representative office of CCI in India at Mumbai. CCI is the largest body representing 53,000 business organisations, more than 280 business unions at the federal level and 750 unions at the regional level in Russia. The Chamber has signed more than 100 bilateral agreements with various countries and it has 30 representative offices across the world. As per our law, we do not set up more than one office in any country. But given the growing scale of India-Russia business relationship, we have opened second office at Mumbai in India.”

H.E. Katyrin further remarked, “Both our representative offices will promote bilateral trade, investment and technology collaboration for Russian companies in India and also for Indian companies in Russia. The current bilateral trade is lopsided as India has huge trade deficit with Russia. Our representative offices will facilitate India’s exports to correct this trade deficit.

During the event, Mr. P. D. Malikner, IAS, Managing Director, MITL (AURIC), Mumbai invited Russian companies to set up office at India’s next generation greenfield smart city AURIC in Aurangabad. He said, “AURIC is one of the key components of the multi-billion dollar National Industrial Corridor Development Programme of India. The 10,000 acre smart city has world-class infrastructure for industrial, social and residential units. The city attracted more than USD 1 billion investments from around 170 companies across South Korea, Russia and USA. Around 70% of Shendre and 25% of Bidkin phases of the project are allocated to investors.”

In his remarks, Mr. Aleksei Surovtsev, Consul General, Consulate General of the Russian Federation informed, “Russia has become the 4th largest trade partner of India from 20th largest partner two years ago. Today, goods and services trade has crossed USD 55 billion mark and this is the most opportune time to strengthen this partnership further.”

Mr. Alexander Rybas, Trade Commissioner, Embassy of the Russian Federation in India informed, “India is a strategic business partner of Russia and both the countries are working on multiple fora such as BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Our trade mission aims to diversify our business relationship in areas such as railways, infrastructure, heavy machineries, timber, chemicals and so on.”

Mr. Rybas informed that India started negotiation on free trade agreement (FTA) with Eurasian Economic Union, which includes Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyztan and Armenia.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Dr. Vijay Kalantri, President - All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and Chairman - MVIRDC WTC Mumbai mentioned, “Russia is always a reliable friend of India and our trade continues despite international sanctions. Bilateral goods trade has crossed the USD 50 billion mark this year and I am confident that in the next three years, we can surpass USD 100 billion trade. All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and WTC Mumbai assures all support to Russian companies to facilitate their trade and investment in India. We have been promoting bilateral trade and investment through the India-Russia Trade House, which was established in Mumbai more than seven years ago.”

Dr. Kalantri pointed out that India runs USD 47 billion trade deficit with Russia and this needs to be corrected through trade facilitation initiatives. Dr. Kalantri proposed to work closely with the Russian Chamber of Commerce by initially focusing on a few sectors to develop bilateral trade, investment and technology cooperation.

During the event, Saint Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed an MoU with All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and WTC Mumbai to promote bilateral trade and investment. Lipetsk Chamber of Commerce and Industry also signed similar MoU with AIAI and WTC Mumbai.

The event was also addressed by Mrs. Alina Novikova, spouse of the Russian Ambassador to Nepal, Mr. Vladimir Katenev, President, Saint Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mr. Anatoly Goltsov, Chairman, Lipetsk Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Capt. Somesh Batra, Vice Chairman, MVIRDC World Trade Center Mumbai proposed vote of thanks for the session. He suggested Russian companies to invest in India and explore imports from India to balance bilateral trade.

The event was followed by B2B meetings between Russian delegation and Indian business delegates in sectors such as water heating equipment’s, edible oil, hydropower, transport, logistics, construction, fresh fruits, fabrics, threads, polymer and gemstones.

H.E. Sergey Katyrin, President, Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of the Russian Federation (middle) being felicitated by Dr. Vijay Kalantri, President - All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and Chairman - MVIRDC WTC Mumbai (left). Also seen in the photograph is Mr. Aleksei Surovtsev, Consul General, Consulate General of the Russian Federation

Mr. Anatoly Goltsov, Chairman, Lipetsk Chamber of Commerce and Industry (left) exchanging MoU with Dr. Vijay Kalantri, President - All India Association of Industries (AIAI) and Chairman - MVIRDC WTC Mumbai (middle). Also seen in the photograph is Capt. Somesh Batra, Vice Chairman, MVIRDC World Trade Center Mumbai (right)