South Korean local government cancels international event with 30,000 participants from 78 countries, causing international damage

On October 29th, an administrative decision by a South Korean government agency sparked international controversy, raising concerns about religious freedom and causing substantial financial loss.

The “Religious Leaders Forum and Graduation Ceremony,” a joint initiative by two prominent religious organizations, was set to take place in Paju, South Korea. The event was expected to draw over 30,000 participants from 57 countries, including 1,000 religious leaders representing Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism.

However, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization, a public entity under Gyeonggi Province, abruptly canceled the venue rental without prior notice. This last-minute decision has resulted in significant financial damage to the international event. Organizers of this event stated that the cancellation constitutes an unconstitutional act of discrimination against a specific religion, violating religious freedom, human rights, and due process of law.

The hosting organizations, the Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus, said that they had received official confirmation on October 23rd and 28th that there was no plan of cancellation. They also said that the unilateral cancellation was an unreasonable administrative action targeting a specific religious group. They further emphasize that other events scheduled for the same day were not affected, suggesting that the cancellation was “administrative decision caused by opposition from a specific religious group,” which “violates the principle of separation of church and state guaranteed by the Constitution.”

The Gyeonggi Tourism Organization cited security concerns related to recent North Korean actions and the planned activities of a North Korean defector group as reasons for the cancellation. However, it was pointed out that other events, such as civilian bike rides and foreign tourist visits to the DMZ, were permitted within the same designated area.

The incident has reignited international debate about religious freedom and tolerance in South Korea. The U.S. State Department’s International Religious Freedom Report has previously highlighted concerns such as the prosecution of Shincheonji Church of Jesus and the government’s refusal to approve mosque construction.

The Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus call upon the South Korean government to respect religious freedom, uphold human rights, and rectify this unjust decision. They urge international organizations to monitor this situation and take appropriate action to protect religious freedom.

Bangalore — 29^th Oct 2024 — Chanakya University proudly announces the grand inauguration of School of Engineering on 28^th Oct 2024, marking a significant milestone in technical education. The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Dr. S Somanath, Chairman – Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Prof. Mahesh Panchagnula, Professor, IIT Madras and Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Dept. of Science and Technology, Govt. of India.

The School of Engineering at Chanakya University aims to cultivate innovative thinkers and skilled professionals equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. With a curriculum designed to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical application, the school offers programmes such as Computer Science and Engineering, Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Electronics Engineering (VLSI and Embedded Systems), Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and Civil, Construction and Sustainable Engineering.

Dr. S Somanath, a pioneering figure in India’s space endeavors, delivered the inaugural address, emphasising the importance of engineering education in driving technological advancements. Prof. Abhay Karandikar highlighted the role of academia in fostering research and innovation, crucial for the nation’s progress in science and technology.

“Today, we ignite a beacon of innovation and excellence with the inauguration of School of Engineering. Our vision is to nurture talented engineers who will harness technology to transform lives. An engineer must be capable of providing remedies for the complex problems of the society. A constant learner who is rooted in the culture, heritage and traditions has a better exposure for solving complexities around. I urge the students to embrace curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Let us bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering solutions for a better tomorrow” – Dr. S Somanath said.

Prof. Karandikar added, “The foundation of any great institution lies in its commitment to inspire innovation, nurture critical thinking, and empower future leaders. Today, with the inauguration of the School of Engineering at Chanakya University, we embark on a journey to create a vibrant ecosystem where technology meets purpose, and knowledge transforms into impactful solutions for the society. Let us strive to make this school a beacon of excellence, where every student not only learns but also contributes to the advancement of our nation and the world.”

Prof. Mahesh Panchagnula, Professor, Applied Mechanics, IIT Madras said “The opening of the School of Engineering at Chanakya University marks more than just the start of a new academic chapter; it represents a commitment to shaping future innovators, thinkers, and leaders who will drive meaningful change. We are building a place where ideas flourish, collaboration thrives, and knowledge is transformed into action that addresses real-world challenges. Together, let us foster a community that is dedicated to engineering a better tomorrow.”

Founder Chancellor and Padma Shri Awardee Prof. M. K. Sridhar, Pro Chancellor Sri M P Kumar, Vice Chancellor Prof. Yashavantha Dongre, Director – Academics, School of Engineering Dr. Vineeth Paleri, Chief Operating Officer Sri Nagaraj Reddy, and Registrar Prof. Sushanth Joshi, were present during the inauguration.

About Chanakya University:

Chanakya University, located in Devanahalli, is renowned for its innovative approach to higher education. With a strong emphasis on research, interdisciplinary learning, and community service, the University aims to develop well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society.

For details, contact:

School of Engineering

Sri Chandrashekar, Media and Communications

chandrashekar.km@chanakyauniversity.edu.in

www.chanakyauniversity.edu.in

28th October 2024, Bangalore: HackerEarth, a global leader in developer assessment and engagement solutions, is excited to announce its collaboration with Amazon India to host the highly anticipated Amazon Smbhav Hackathon 2024. 

This nationwide event will bring together a large number of participants from diverse backgrounds, leveraging AI and GenAI to create groundbreaking solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). 

The hackathon, designed to transform the e-commerce landscape for SMBs in India, will challenge participants to develop innovative tools and solutions that empower SMBs to expand both domestically and internationally. By using AI-powered technologies in their solutions, innovators will focus on real-world challenges such as navigating cross-border trade, compliance with international regulations, and creating AI-powered solutions that enhance SMB efficiency and sustainability.

Key Highlights of the Hackathon:

1. SMB Empowerment through AI: Participants will harness the power of AI and GenAI to develop solutions that enable SMBs to optimize their business operations, from product listings and multi-channel fulfillment to cross-border trade and sustainability. These tools will be aimed at making businesses more competitive on Amazon’s platform, both in India and globally.
2. Collaboration to create Real-World Impact: Participants will work alongside successful Amazon sellers and e-commerce experts to refine their ideas and create transformative solutions that align with the real needs of the e-commerce ecosystem.
3. Driving India’s Digital Economy: The hackathon supports India’s ambitious goal of becoming a trillion-dollar digital economy by unlocking growth opportunities for SMBs through cutting-edge AI-driven solutions.

“Empowering India’s Tech Talent to Drive Innovation”

“We’re excited to partner with Amazon India for this important initiative,” said Vikas Aditya, CEO of HackerEarth. “The Amazon Smbhav Hackathon gives India’s developers, innovators, and entrepreneurs a chance to solve real-world problems using AI. By bringing together the brightest minds, we’re helping SMBs grow while contributing to India’s digital economy. This has been made possible by HackerEarth’s long-standing commitment to building a strong community of developers and problem-solvers.”. 

Azad Tripathi, Sr. Manager, Seller Experience, Amazon added “The Smbhav Hackathon is more than just a competition; it’s a launchpad for innovation that can shape the future of e-commerce in India. We’re looking for bright minds who can turn challenges into opportunities, creating solutions that will empower millions of SMBs across the country”.

Commitment to a Digital India

Aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), the hackathon underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and digitisation for SMB growth. This is expected to be one of the largest tech events in India, attracting a vast community of developers, students, and entrepreneurs. It presents a platform where India’s best minds can showcase their creativity, collaborate with experts, and develop solutions that drive meaningful change.

Phases and Recognition:

Participants will progress through multiple stages—from idea submissions to prototype development, culminating in a virtual Demo Day on December 5-6, 2024. The winners will be celebrated at the prestigious Amazon Smbhav Summit 2024 in New Delhi on December 9-10, where they stand to win cash prizes up to ₹10 lakh and a trip to Amazon’s headquarters in Seattle. Winning solutions could potentially be implemented on a larger scale on Amazon’s platform, impacting millions of SMBs and customers worldwide.

About HackerEarth:

HackerEarth is a global leader in developer assessment and engagement solutions, empowering enterprises to hire, evaluate, and upskill developers based on their skills. With an active community of developers, HackerEarth’s platform enables companies to find the best talent, streamline recruitment processes, and foster continuous innovation. For more information, visit www.hackerearth.com.

For more details on the Amazon Smbhav Hackathon 2024 and to register, please visit: Amazon Smbhav Hackathon 2024 Registration.

On October 20th, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chairman of the Ban Ki-moon Foundation, visited Wuhu, China, to participate in Chery’s large-scale RIDE GREEN LIFE, which drew thousands of participants. During the event, Mr. Ban arrived at the venue in a Chery Tiggo 9 PHEV, praising its innovative practices in the field of new energy vehicles. He highlighted that the green cycling event is significant for promoting the concept of sustainable development and enhancing public awareness of environmental protection. Furthermore, he called for global cooperation to advance the green transition and achieve a low-carbon future.

About Chery

Founded in 1997, Chery Group operates in over 100 countries and regions worldwide and has remained the top Chinese passenger car exporter for 21 consecutive years. In the 2024 Fortune Global 500 list, Chery Group ranked 385th. Chery was also one of three Chinese automakers to be listed in the “2024 China ESG Impact List” published by Fortune.

Since 2024, Chery Group has continued its high-quality development, with cumulative sales reaching 1.75 million vehicles from January to September, reflecting a 40% year-on-year increase. Of these, 830,000 vehicles were exported, a 25% year-on-year growth. As of the end of August 2024, Chery Group’s global automotive user base has exceeded 15 million.

Mr. Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Group, explains the vehicle to Mr. Ban Ki-moon.

Chery’s export product lineup includes the TIGGO, Arrizo, and eQ series, covering mainstream powertrains such as ICE, BEV, and PHEV. With a brand core focused on “Green, Technology, Family, and Companionship,” Chery remains committed to a green and low-carbon strategic direction, accelerating its presence in new fields such as new energy, intelligent connectivity, shared mobility, platforms, and ecosystems.

Chery is actively engaged in public welfare, participating in various global initiatives such as environmental protection, targeted poverty alleviation, and educational donations. For instance, Chery donated $6 million to support UNICEF’s “Global Education Thematic Programme,” demonstrating its commitment to fulfilling the social responsibilities of a Chinese brand in the international community.

Chery has been honored five times as one of the “Top 20 Best Overseas Image Enterprises” by SASAC and CICG. In the 2024 Kantar BrandZ Top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders report, Chery was ranked first in the automotive category. Chery once again secured the top spot for the highest-ranked domestic brand in J.D. Power’s 2024 China Initial Quality Study (IQS), marking the brand’s third major achievement in 2024, following its first-place rankings in the China Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) and the China Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) studies.

Gurgaon, India – October 10, 2024 – BELLAVITA (https://bellavitaorganic.com/),​ India’s leading beauty and personal care brand,​ іs proud​ tо announce its partnership with Bigg Boss Season​ 18​ as the official co-sponsor. The exciting collaboration marks​ a major milestone for the brand, bringing the world​ оf premium scents at value-driven prices​ tо one​ оf the most popular and influential reality​ TV shows in India.

Established​ іn 2018​ as​ a direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand, BELLAVITA set out with​ a vision​ tо bring world-class beauty and personal care products​ tо​ an aspirational India. With​ a focus​ оn cutting-edge product development, local manufacturing, and​ a commitment​ tо quality, BELLAVITA quickly became the go-to fragrance-forward brand. Now​ a part​ оf the Guardian group, BELLAVITA was acquired​ by Ananta Capital​ іn 2021, through​ a blend​ оf primary cash infusion and secondary stake sale.

“Entertainment is a huge part of every Indian’s life, and Bigg Boss is at the heart of it. With BELLAVITA, we aim to not only enhance the viewing experience for fans but also uplift the contestants’ everyday moments inside the house. This partnership allows us to bring the world of fragrance into the spotlight, adding a new sensory dimension to the entertainment that Indians love so much,” says Ashutosh Taparia, Board Member & Managing Director of Guardian Group.

BELLAVITA, mainly known for its diverse, bold, and long-lasting fragrances, will now enter the homes​ оf millions​ оf Bigg Boss fans, adding​ a unique sensory element​ tо the excitement​ оf the show.​ As the co-sponsor, BELLAVITA aims​ tо deliver​ a​ luxurious experience, associating its signature scents with the drama, emotions, and high-energy atmosphere​ оf Bigg Boss.

“We know how much the Indian audience loves BELLAVITA and Bigg Boss, and this partnership of ours is the perfect opportunity to give them a lot of entertainment and a peek into the fragrant life of Bigg Boss contestants,” says Pavithra KR, Senior Vice President Sales & Head of Revenue, Colors, Viacom18.

Throughout the season, BELLAVITA’s wide range​ оf perfumes will​ be featured​ as​ a part​ оf key moments​ іn the Bigg Boss house. From luxurious daily rituals​ tо special in-house events, BELLAVITA’s products will amplify the contestants’ journey, adding​ an element​ оf style, sophistication, and​ a pinch​ оf drama​ tо their daily interactions.​ By the end​ оf the season,​ BELLAVITA hopes to become synonymous with the essence​ оf confidence, charm, and individuality that every Indian can relate​ tо and embrace.

“We want BELLAVITA​ tо become​ an essential part​ оf every Indian’s life. Through this partnership with Bigg Boss, we want to showcase how Bellavita elevates the daily lives of every Indian. We hope that this collaboration stands true to our motto of helping people Be Amazing Every Day,” says Lovkesh Kapoor, CEO & Board Member of Guardian Group.

Much like the dynamic personalities​ оf the contestants​ оn Bigg Boss, BELLAVITA’s fragrances are designed for individuals who are unafraid​ tо express themselves. Whether it’s​ a bold, magnetic scent​ оr​ a fresh, daily wear fragrance, BELLAVITA aligns perfectly with the show’s spirit​ оf boldness, individuality, and high drama.

“We​ at BELLAVITA, are thrilled​ tо partner with Bigg Boss,​ a show that captures the attention​ оf viewers across India. Our mission has always been​ tо bring premium fragrance experiences while still being affordable​ tо all, and this collaboration with Bigg Boss allows​ us​ tо connect with our audience more closely and showcase the power​ оf scent​ іn creating lasting memories,” says Aakash Anand, Founder​ оf BELLAVITA & Board Member of Guardian Group.

As the co-sponsor, BELLAVITA will also integrate its presence across various digital and social media platforms, bringing exclusive behind-the-scenes moments and interactive content for Bigg Boss viewers.

Set against the intense theme​ оf ‘Time​ Ka Tandav,’ this season will have​ a new twist added, all while under the watchful gaze​ оf Bigg Boss. Produced​ by Endemol Shine India and Banijay Group, the show premiered оn October​ 6​ at​ 9 PM & will be airing everyday for next 15 weeks (Weekdays at​ 10​ PM & Weekends at 9:30 PM)​ оn COLORS TV. For premium subscribers,​ a 24-hour live channel will also​ be available​ оn Jio Cinema.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Amrita Singh, amrita.singh@idamwellness.com, +91 98187 66037

About Bellavita:

Bellavita is a leading Beauty & Personal Care company headquartered in Gurgaon. Founded in 2018 by Aakash Anand, Bellavita is the market leader for perfumes in India. It has fast emerged as the preferred fragrance-forward brand on the back of its strong product development, local manufacturing & quality-consciousness. Bellavita, housed under the Guardian group, was acquired by Ananta Capital in 2021 through a mix of primary cash infusion & secondary stake sale.

About Ananta Capital:

Ananta Capital is private equity firm headquartered in Mumbai. With a diverse portfolio and a track record of successful investments, Ananta Capital is committed to partnering with visionary entrepreneurs to unlock value and drive sustainable growth. Ananta Capital’s portfolio includes Bellavita, Bevzilla, BetterAlt, Springwel Mattresses, Sleepycat, Open Secret, Pickrr (exited) and Stovekraft.