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GMRao advocate who turned into a monk in Hyderabad

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Today, as we commemorate the birth of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, and a very eminent lawyer, what better way to bring another inspirational journey of a criminal lawyer, GM Rao, for our Hyderabad edition?

Shikha Duggal

It was an epiphany to hear that a world-renowned criminal lawyer from Hyderabad is on the path of spotless chastity. The good name is G.M. Rao, an advocate who is a high-profile individual today in the city because of his landmark judgments in legal matters across India. He grabbed the best of all penances and became a celibate at the age of 33; that hooked us!

Cut to a man in his monk attire in the metropolis city, who attracts many stares in the court in his black robe fighting against injustice. What matters for this pakka Hyderabadi is that he continues to be the charismatic personality that he is, and serves society, whether through his incredible educational qualifications or his current instinct of giving back to society. On a contrary note, how did it all begin?

“My forefathers were from Hyderabad — a legacy of 300 years. My father worked for Panchayath Raj schools in Andhra Pradesh. After my basic education, I entered a law college with a determination to be one of the top lawyers in India because I felt lawyers had the opportunity to make a real difference and gain respect! I am taking you back to 1996 when senior lawyers never used to pay us; there was no stipend. And to my luck, I was the eldest son, so I organically had the responsibility of maintaining a livelihood. I immediately moved to Singapore to do cyberlaw! “I was observing how senior lawyers were using the tactics to their bet advantage there; it was a learning experience for me,” he said.

When he returned to India, he started taking on cases from venture capitalists. And the task was to make them win the case in the allotted time frame of ten minutes, and he did it! At the same time, being in the field surrounded by so much practicality, he still had a philosophical approach of his own, which made him stand out amongst other lawyers in the country. There came a ghastly decision in his life, “I moved to the Himalayas. I began studying Upanishads, sutras, jeevan mukti, the Bhagavad-gita, moksha, and a plethora of other life philosophies.I did not wait for tomorrow to renounce the world and become a monk. Yet, I came back to Hyderabad to fulfill my responsibilities, which were to continue providing justice to the needy.”

Apart from serving the country with legal capabilities, he also goes to the Hyderabadi slums and hears out the problems. “I gifted a few of them sewing machines so that they could earn a better livelihood. I donated bicycles to young girls in rural areas so that they can peddle their way to education. I didn’t like the way people fight in our slums just to fulfill their egos. I have NRI clients too, so I get to see many diasporas of life as a lawyer. When a couple comes to me to file for divorce, it pinches me. Yes, it’s truly the opposite of what I do as an advocate, but I’m here to serve humanity too. Instead of convincing one of them to really file for divorce, I counsel them in a spiritual manner, and they do get hell-bent on giving themselves a second chance. I don’t want to obtain money by separating two lives!” he added.

G.M. Rao’s success and his contribution to society brought him to the attention of the Academy of Universal Global Peace too, and he was awarded the degree of “Doctor of Letters!” Born in the old city and then moving to Banjara Hills for a reason, he explained the scenario: “It’s difficult for the residents of the old city to acquire a high stature in society because that area is full of issues. According to psychology, your environment influences your growth, and my parents didn’t want those meaningless chit-chatters to affect me, so they relocated to Banjara Hills instead. Only after coming outside of my former colony did I start to transform like a blossoming flower for the betterment of Hyderabad.”

Sitting in a prestigious position and knowing the ins and outs of the old city, he shares his insights about whether hate crime will seep into our city too or not. He said, “During the 1980s, I saw bloodshed happening right before my eyes in the old city. It was the Ayodhya dispute! Year by year, curfews were being imposed. Although I haven’t totally forgotten where I was born, I still go meet my childhood buddies there, and they are highly educated regardless of where they stay. Fifteen years ago, in every nook and cranny, the only purpose of old city residents was to make some kind of alcohol, but today the scenario has changed. There are independent livelihoods going on there.

I have discussed this matter with my friends over there too, and they are very well aware that it’s a political drama and nothing else. Even today, Muslims and Hindus have a bonding in the old city that nobody can break.”

His perspective on the district court in comparison to the Supreme Court of India and law enforcement agencies around the world—what differences he has noticed—was intriguing. For example, “Laws abroad are way too stringent; nobody can escape even for a second! There are rarely any trials to delay the case; if found guilty then and there, the case is closed with the required punishment because they are developed countries. Case in point:

Singapore, Australia, and America. I cannot pin the Telangana High Court as an example on behalf of the whole country because the crux lies in our constitution, in the parliament. They have to bring the new changes so that district courts can follow up. There’s a very disturbing law in our country that is impossible to misuse abroad, and that is the peculiar laws in favour of women. As an advocate myself, I can second the opinion that few of the sections are duly biassed against women.”

So it’s understandable that when his loved ones see him dressed as a monk, they have a variety of reactions. Nevertheless, it doesn’t get to him because, for others, it may be a bygone concept, but to him, he’s attaining liberation in his own way. “We are not allowed to discuss our monk life other than with intellectuals; for example, at the moment it is in the media, and the media can understand what it’s like to be a monk in today’s times,” he told us. Others regard it as surreal fiction! “I don’t want to be foolish and go on and on about my personal liberation experience, which means a lot to me, nor do I owe an explanation to anyone else. Looking at my appearance, they get an idea, though.

To put it simply for others, I am following a Vedantic approach; I cannot begin preaching about karma on the steps of our Telangana High Court (he laughs). That’s about it,” he concluded.

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Satyendra Kumar Champions Pension Justice: Reflects on Pension Court Successes and the Need for Reform

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In a compelling address to an audience of retired employees, their families, and government officials, Satyendra Kumar, a progressive leader, a decorated bureaucrat and advocate for administrative reform, underscored the significance of pension courts in upholding justice and dignity for pensioners. Drawing from his own experiences as Chairperson of Pension Courts, Mr. Kumar highlighted the transformative impact of resolving long-pending cases and the role of pension courts in delivering timely benefits to retirees and their families.

The event, attended by policymakers, social activists, and retired government employees, served as a platform for discussing systemic challenges in the pension system and exploring actionable solutions for ensuring justice for pensioners.

Pension Courts: A Crucial Institution for Justice

Mr. Kumar began his speech by emphasising the critical role of pension courts in addressing grievances, saying, “Pension courts are not just administrative forums; they are instruments of justice that restore the dignity and rights of those who have given their best years in service to the nation. It is imperative that we strengthen these institutions to ensure every pensioner receives their rightful dues without delay.”

He pointed out that pension-related disputes often stem from procedural delays, lack of awareness, and systemic inefficiencies, leaving many pensioners in financial and emotional distress. “Behind every pending pension case lies a story of hardship, frustration, and, in many cases, grief. It is our responsibility as administrators to ensure that these stories have a just and timely resolution,” he said.

Personal Experiences: Resolving Long-Standing Cases

Reflecting on his tenure as Chairperson of Pension Courts, Mr. Kumar shared several impactful experiences where justice was served to deserving pensioners and their families:

  1. Resolving Decades-Old Cases:

Mr. Kumar recounted a case where a retired government employee had been fighting for his pension for over 25 years due to discrepancies in service records. Under Mr. Kumar’s leadership, the case was resolved, and the pensioner received his dues along with arrears. “The joy and relief on his face were a reminder of why these courts are so vital,” he said.

  1. Providing Relief to Grieving Families:

In many instances, widows and dependents of deceased employees had been denied benefits due to procedural delays. Mr. Kumar highlighted a case where a widow had been waiting for her husband’s pension for nearly 15 years. “Her perseverance moved us all. By clearing her case and ensuring she received the pending amount, we restored not just her financial security but also her faith in the system,” he shared.

  1. Ensuring Accountability:

Mr. Kumar made it a point to hold officials accountable for delays and directed them to implement systemic changes. “Pension courts are not just about resolving cases; they are about creating a culture of accountability that prevents such delays in the future,” he emphasised.

Call for Systemic Reforms

While celebrating the success of pension courts, Mr. Kumar also outlined the challenges that need to be addressed to improve their efficiency and impact:

  1. Digitisation of Records:

He stressed the need for a fully digitised pension system to eliminate discrepancies and reduce processing times. “A single digital platform can ensure transparency, accessibility, and accountability,” he remarked.

  1. Proactive Communication:

Pensioners often face difficulties due to lack of awareness about their entitlements and the status of their cases. Mr. Kumar proposed regular updates and outreach programs to bridge this gap.

  1. Periodic Pension Courts:

He called for the institutionalisation of regular pension court sessions across districts to address grievances promptly.

  1. Grievance Helplines:

Establishing dedicated helplines for pension-related concerns would provide a direct channel for resolving issues without the need for lengthy bureaucratic procedures.

Voices from the Beneficiaries

The session also featured testimonials from pensioners and their families who had benefited from Mr. Kumar’s leadership in pension courts.

  • A retired school principal, whose pension case had been unresolved for nearly 20 years, said, “I had almost given up hope until Mr. Satyendra Kumar’s judgement ensured that my case was resolved. His dedication to justice is unparalleled.”
  • The son of a deceased employee shared, “My father passed away waiting for his dues. Thanks to Mr. Kumar’s efforts, my mother and I have finally received the benefits that were rightfully ours.”

A Vision for the Future

Concluding his speech, Mr. Kumar reiterated his commitment to advocating for pensioners and reforming the pension system. He said, “A society is judged by how it treats its elders. We must ensure that no pensioner or their family is left to struggle for what is rightfully theirs. Let us work together to build a system that upholds justice, compassion, and dignity.”

He urged policymakers and administrators to prioritise pension reforms and invest in creating a more responsive and efficient system.

A Call to Action

Mr. Kumar’s speech resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring hope and renewed faith in the pension justice system. As the session concluded, he was applauded for his unwavering dedication and leadership in resolving grievances and delivering justice to pensioners.

The event served as a reminder of the power of compassionate governance and the impact of strong institutional mechanisms in ensuring the welfare of retired employees.

About Mr. Satyendra Kumar

Mr. Satyendra Kumar is a social leader and a bureaucrat with decades of experience in public administration. Known for his expertise in financial administration, governance reforms, and grievance redressal, he has trained top IAS, IPS, and IFS officers in India. Mr. Kumar has a distinguished record of leadership in addressing systemic inefficiencies and promoting justice in governance. His commitment to serving pensioners and their families reflects his enduring dedication to public welfare and equitable governance.

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Stargazing to Star building: The man who is leading the worlds largest scientific endeavour of the 21st century in Astronomy.

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In an exclusive interview that feels more like a journey through time and space, we uncover the story of Kaushik Bose, the man at the helm of constructing the mega science project – Square Kilometre Array Observatory Telescope (SKAO LOW) in outback of Australian Desert. From his early days in Ranchi, India, surrounded by the whispers of nature and the stories of the cosmos, Bose has charted a path that few dare to dream.

Bose’s fascination with the universe began in the sprawling gardens of his childhood home, under the expansive Indian sky. “My mother introduced me to the stars,” he shares, reflecting on the evenings spent tracing constellations. It’s this celestial curiosity that propelled him from dreaming of moon colonies to leading the construction of the SKAO, an international endeavour set to redefine our understanding of the universe. Bose has been an international advisor to several governments across world in delivering critical facilities. “Building difficult things in unusual places on Earth”, has pretty much been my passion” he mentioned.

India’s Stellar Role

The SKAO, an unprecedented global collaboration, aims to build the world’s largest radio telescope. With India’s recent entry into the project, Bose feels a profound connection to the mission. “India’s dedication to astronomical research is crucial for the SKAO,” he states, highlighting the country’s pivotal role in the project’s software and planning phases & its integration to the supercomputing technology which the project will use.  Amongst some recent involvement, India successfully completed delivery of 350,000 meters of high voltage cables for the telescope construction.

High Voltage cables from India which will power up the SKAO LOW Telescope- Pictures from MRO site, with Kaushik

(High Voltage cables from India which will power up the SKAO LOW Telescope- Pictures from MRO site, with Kaushik)

Unravelling Cosmic Mysteries

What excites Bose the most about the SKAO’s potential is the quest to answer age-old questions about our universe. “We’re on the brink of potentially detecting signals from distant civilizations,” he marvels, contemplating the impact of such discoveries on our understanding of existence. It’s a testament to human curiosity and the unyielding desire to explore the unknown.

A Monumental Endeavor

Describing the SKAO’s scale, Bose draws an awe-inspiring picture: “Imagine fitting over 200 Eden Gardens within our project’s expanse.” The project’s infrastructure, sprawling across vast deserts, is a beacon of human ambition and ingenuity. The network of cables alone could circle the Earth multiple times, a physical manifestation of the project’s global reach and its boundless aspirations.

Challenges of Cosmic Proportions

Constructing in the Murchison desert’s radio-quiet zone comes with its unique set of challenges, from stringent electromagnetic compliance to the logistical hurdles of coordinating a global team. But for Bose, who has built infrastructure in some of the world’s most remote locales, these challenges are just another puzzle to solve on the path to unlocking the universe’s secrets.

A Heart Anchored in India

Despite his global journey, Bose’s heart remains firmly rooted in India. “The connection to my homeland remains strong,” he asserts, expressing a desire to contribute to India’s burgeoning scientific landscape. His work, though spanning continents, always circles back to the serene landscapes of his birthplace.

Inspiring Future Generations

Bose’s message to the youth is clear: let curiosity lead the way. His transition from an architect of buildings to an architect of the stars is a narrative of passion and perseverance. “The future belongs to those bold enough to chase their dreams,” he encourages, envisioning a world where the next generation reaches even further into the cosmos.

A New Perspective on Our Place in the Universe

In contemplating the current era, Bose sees a parallel with historical moments of great innovation. Exploring space, he believes, offers new solutions and insights, potentially addressing some of our most pressing challenges. It’s a perspective that reiterates the importance of looking beyond our immediate surroundings, towards the vastness of space, for answers.

As we wrapped up our conversation, it was clear that Kaushik Bose is not just building the world’s most advanced radio telescope; he’s laying the foundation for a future where the mysteries of the universe are within our grasp. The story of Kaushik stands out as one of the many bright talents India is putting up on the global stage.

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Axllo Green Energy Secures $66M Funding for 20 CBG Plants in South India

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Axllo Green Energy Private Limited (AGEPL) is poised for a significant leap in the renewable energy sector, securing full funding for 20 Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants across South India. A United Kingdom-based investment firm M/s Climate Capital Technolgy Limited, London, has committed an impressive $66M (around 560 Crores INR) for the erection, commissioning, and operation of these plants, each with a capacity of 5 TPD (Tonnes Per Day).

The first plant, located near Bagalkot, Karnataka, is set to be commissioned on Axllo’s 5-acre land plot. The plant will process Pressmud and Napier Grass as feedstock to produce 5,000 kgs of Compressed Biogas daily. In addition to biogas, the plant will generate valuable by-products such as 32 tonnes of solid manure per day and carbon credits, contributing to environmental sustainability and carbon emission reductions.

The UK-based financing company views this partnership as a key entry into the Indian market, with a primary focus on transacting carbon credits in the international market. Carbon credits are projected to have substantial financial potential, offering promising returns on investment while supporting global carbon reduction efforts.

Commenting on the investment, the CEO of the UK-based financing firm, Climate Capital Technology Limited, Mr. Douglas Prentice, said, “We will work closely with the Axllo team to ensure a smooth transition of funds in alignment with the project’s milestones. We believe this partnership will significantly contribute to India’s renewable energy goals and global efforts towards sustainable energy solutions.”

AGEPL’s CEO and Managing Director, Mr. Sadanand M. Banagar, emphasized the importance of the project beyond its financial value, stating, “Beyond the lucrative financial returns, we are committed to supporting green initiatives that align with our mission to drive sustainability and combat climate change. The significant reduction in carbon emissions and the promotion of renewable energy in rural areas make this project particularly compelling for us.”

This collaboration marks a milestone in Axllo Green Energy’s journey towards a greener and more sustainable energy future, positioning it as a key player in India’s renewable energy landscape.

Contact : Mr. Basavaraj KJ

Media Liason

+91-93800 08946

info@axllo.com

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VIHTRIBEZ: The Fusion of Creativity and Commercial Success

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Finding the balance between creativity and commercial success can be elusive in a world where content is king. Enter VIHTRIBEZ, a community founded by two dynamic individuals, Mithyll Dave and P. Swarnalata, who have combined their years of experience and passion to create a unique space for creators and entrepreneurs.

VIHTRIBEZ isn’t just another business or creative community; it’s a thriving ecosystem where storytelling and content creation are elevated into a powerful tool for brand building and revenue generation. What sets VIHTRIBEZ apart is how it marries the art of creativity with the science of commercial viability, creating a harmonious balance between the two.

The Visionaries Behind VIHTRIBEZ

Mithyll Dave, a seasoned content strategist, podcast wizard, and solopreneur coach, has been helping creators and entrepreneurs find their voice and monetize their passions. His partner in this journey, P. Swarnalata, is an accomplished writer, author, and the founder of Dastan Media. This storytelling hub helps businesses and professionals build their brand stories through different storytelling formats. Together, they have formed VIHTRIBEZ, a community that caters to creators who want to tell their stories and achieve sustainable success.

“VIHTRIBEZ was born out of our passion for creating content and our experience of generating revenue and brand value through content,” shares Mithyll. His expertise in content marketing and solopreneur coaching allows him to guide community members in producing content that isn’t just engaging but also profitable. Mithyll’s skill set goes beyond content creation—he provides a roadmap for those looking to turn their ideas into a business.

Swarnalata, on the other hand, believes that “we are all unique stories in motion that are waiting to be told.” As a storyteller, she brings a distinctive narrative flair to the community, ensuring that every member’s personal and professional stories resonate with their audience. “What we do at VIHTRIBEZ is help our community members find that voice, personal or professional,” she explains. Her ability to weave storytelling techniques into content creation makes her the perfect counterpart to Mithyll’s more commercial approach.

Creativity Meets Commercial Strategy

What makes VIHTRIBEZ truly unique is the complementary expertise of its founders. If Mithyll is the architect of content strategy and monetization, Swarnalata is the storyteller who adds heart and depth to the narrative. Together, they form the two sides of the content marketing coin, each adding immense value to the other.

Balancing creativity with commercial goals is essential for businesses and individuals looking to scale their brand. “People often see storytelling as a purely creative endeavour, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a business tool, and we help our members understand how to harness it for real-world success,” says Swarnalata. Mithyll echoes this sentiment, adding, “Great content isn’t enough. It needs to be packaged and marketed to generate revenue, and that’s what we teach at VIHTRIBEZ.”

Building a Thriving Community

At its core, VIHTRIBEZ is more than just a platform for creators—it’s a community. Mithyll and Swarnalata are committed to fostering an environment where members support each other, collaborate, and grow together. Whether someone is just starting out or already has a foothold in the industry, the community offers resources, mentorship, and a network that makes the content creation journey smoother and more rewarding.

The founders are already hard at work building this community into a thriving hub full of storytellers, content creators, and entrepreneurs. With their combined expertise and shared vision, VIHTRIBEZ aims to become the go-to space for anyone looking to grow both creatively and commercially.

The Future of VIHTRIBEZ

As VIHTRIBEZ continues to grow, the possibilities seem endless. Mithyll and Swarnalata have big plans for the community’s future, with more workshops, events, and mentorship opportunities on the horizon. Their goal is simple: to build a space where creators can tell their stories, grow their brands, and achieve financial success—without sacrificing creativity.

In a world where content is increasingly commodified, VIHTRIBEZ offers a refreshing take on the business of storytelling.

The duo invites creators, entrepreneurs, and storytellers to join them on this journey and become a part of the ever-evolving VIHTRIBEZ, where creativity and commercial success walk hand in hand.

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Manali Marathon 2.0: A Testament to Resilience and Community Spirit

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Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India – September 28-29: The Manali Marathon 2.0 concluded triumphantly, solidifying its position as one of India’s premier running events. Held on September 29, the marathon saw 659 runners from across India and globe-trotting enthusiasts participate.

Rebuilding and Revitalizing Tourism

Conceived in response to the devastating 2023 floods, the Manali Marathon aimed to showcase the town’s resilience and readiness to welcome tourists once again. This vision was brought to life through the unwavering support of:

– India Tourism

– Himachal Tourism

– Kullu Administration

– Kullu Police

– 1HP Air SQN NCC KULLU

Esteemed sponsors: Amul India, Airtel Bonn, Garuda, Pure White, Vivan Stays, Max Gro, Test Preg, Snow Clad Holidays, Central Adventure, i N Technologies, Adhpl and Danis Hardware

Key Highlights:

– Distances: 1km, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon (21.1K), Full Marathon (42.2K), Ultra Marathon (100K)

– Scenic route through Manali’s landscapes to iconic Rohtang Pass

– Participation: 200+ runners from 20+ Indian states, 45 international runners from 5 countries

– Winner: Rigzin from Ladakh set a new record in the Rohtang Pass Ultra Challenge 100K (11 hours)

Organizer’s Quote:

Manali Marathon 2.0: surpassed our expectations. We’re thrilled to see the running community come together, pushing boundaries and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Our gratitude to participants, – Praveen Sood (Pintu), President, Himalayan Xtreme

Community Impact:

– Promoted tourism and economic growth

– Encouraged healthy living and fitness

– Manali cleaniness drive with NCC Cadets

– Fostered community engagement and cultural exchange

Future Plans:

Manali Marathon 3.0 will feature trail running events, further solidifying Manali’s position as a world-class running destination.

Join the Journey:

Stay updated on Manali Marathon 3.0 and be part of this incredible journey!

Visit manalimarathon.org for more information.

Follow on social media: Facebook @HimalayanXtreme, Instagram @manalimarathon.

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