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Gayatri Mohanty: How A 40-Year Old Mountaineer’s Journey Is Inspiring Women All Across The World

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When you have to describe Gayatri Mohanty to somebody, you find it difficult to find the right adjectives to do so. Gayatri grew up in a small town that was driven by patriarchal thoughts and approaches. Her father, however, always encouraged her to follow her dreams and supported her in every decision she took in her life. Armed with an MBA degree from a reputed management institute, Gayatri embarked upon a career as a banker.

After spending 12 years in the banking sector and rising through the ranks, Gayatri decided to take a break from her professional career to look after her family which included a little child to whom she was a mother. While she missed being a part of a professional setup, this phase helped her get clarity on what her true calling in life was. A visit to the mountaineering club in Bengaluru, where she is based, gave her a new perspective and gave birth to the mountaineer in her.

“I strongly believe that no dream is impossible to achieve if you are determined enough. I grew up in a society where most women were forbidden from dreaming and having certain aspirations in life. For most girls and women around me, even having a professional career was a distant dream. Young women were told to get married, have children and look after the household. I feel blessed to have a strong support system in the form of my parents, husband, and children. They always gave me the support and encouragement to do whatever I wished to do in life”, says Gayatri.

After quitting her job in the year 2007, Gayatri had planned to go for a hike. That’s when the Triund hike in Himachal Pradesh happened. It was a one-night hike and it changed Gayatri’s life forever. She is somebody who has always believed in a sense of community and building strong bonds with people which is very difficult to do in a tier-1 or a cosmopolitan city. Her first trek made her realize that there was a great scope for her to meet new people and build solid friendships in this space. She found the process so amazing that she decided to keep hiking.

“I did my basic mountaineering course at the age of 40 which is very rare. I did that a couple of months back after going on multiple treks as I wanted to study it further. I underwent a gruelling training session for 28 days from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering. It made me much stronger. The most difficult trek for me was the Chadar trek in Ladakh where we had to trek in -40 degrees. I finished the Glacier trek with a broken twist. For seven days, I was in pain but I managed to complete the trek without any plaster or medical support. That was a turning point in my life as a mountaineer. As an NCC Cadet, I represented Odisha in the year 2002. I was in college then. Despite having injured my leg, I went ahead and participated in the Rajpath march on 26 January 2022. I have always found my strength in pain. Incidents like these have shaped up my life. For the Youth Exchange Program organized in 2003, I was selected by the NCC to represent India in Nepal.

Mountaineering has given Gayatri a purpose in life. With time, she believes she has become much stronger and is prepared to learn and do many more things in life. She asserts that mental strength is as important to become a mountaineer as physical strength is. She also believes that the process of learning never stops no matter how skilled or experienced you become.

“Last year, when I did an Everest Base Camp trek, I climbed two other peaks, Nagar Shankh, and Kala Patthar. These were very close to the Everest Base Camp. Everest Base Camp itself is a very difficult trek. I received a lot of encouragement from Lt. Colonel Romil Barthwal, who happens to be one of the founders of the expedition company Boots & Crampons. He told me that I should start climbing higher peaks. I came back from Everest Base camp and decided to do 7 summits across 7 different parts of the world. I recently climbed Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak which is 2228 meters above sea level. My goal is to complete 7 summits.”

Apart from fulfilling her own dreams, Gayatri is now helping people realize their dreams and chase their passion in an organized manner. She has launched her own company where she and her partner encourage people to follow their dreams. Being a mountaineer has helped her have a clear mindset and a better outlook towards life. Through her endeavours, she wants people to understand the importance of following one’s dreams and never feel unsure walking down the roads that have not been explored earlier.

In the last couple of years, Gayatri seems to have got many of her dreams off her checklist. As a mountaineer, she has completed several difficult treks including ascending Africa’s highest peak Mount Kilimanjaro situated at 5895 meters above sea level. She has also climbed Mount Elbrus which is Europe’s highest peak at 5642 meters above sea level. There have been several incidents that shed light on the kind of passion she has for mountaineering. During one of her treks, Gayatri broke her wrist and suffered from a great amount of pain. Despite this, she completed the trek while taking all the necessary precautions.

Elaborating on this, she says, “When you participate in mountaineering, you should be ready to face some challenges that come your way. Throughout my life, I have believed in one important principle. Regardless of which situation you are in, you must give your best and never think about giving up. When I was a banker, I worked diligently and performed my duties to the best of my abilities. I have followed the same principle in my mountaineering career. This mindset has been one of the reasons behind doors opening up for me in different sectors and professions.”

Gayatri wears multiple hats and wears them all very well. Apart from being a renowned mountaineer, Gayatri is a professional fitness consultant and a certified Zumba trainer. She has been crowned at multiple beauty pageants including Mrs. India Global Universe and Mrs. Dazzling Diva. She was the runner-up at the Mrs. Karnataka pageant. She has excelled in everything she has done so far and that speaks volumes about the kind of dedication she has put into everything she has explored in her life. One of the reasons behind her doing so many things efficiently, she believes, is her healthy lifestyle.

“You will be able to achieve something in life only when you have a healthy body and a well-functioning mind. My love for fitness has helped me remain positive and in control of my mind through all the ups and down I have gone through in life. It also gave me the strength to achieve more than I had wished for. It also led me towards becoming a fitness consultant and imparting my knowledge of health and well-being to several individuals”, she says.

Gayatri has won numerous awards and received accolades from institutions of global repute for her mountaineering endeavours. When she is not busy climbing the mountains, she makes people aware of the importance of fitness in one’s life and how one should go about achieving a healthy lifestyle. While the world sees her as an over-achiever, Gayatri feels her journey has just begun.

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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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