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16th Manappuram MBA Award Celebrates 15 Years, Highlights Tamil Nadu’s Leading Business Figures

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The 16th edition of the prestigious Manappuram Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award ceremony, conceptualized by Dr. Ajit Ravi Pegasus, was held on 13th August 2024 at Le Meridien, Coimbatore, honoring exceptional business leaders for their significant financial accomplishments and contributions to social welfare. The event, led by Pegasus Chairman and MBA Award FICF Founder, Dr. Ajit Ravi was graced by Padma Shri Dr. D R Karthikeyan, President of the Foundation for Peace, Harmony and Good Governance (Age Care India) and Former Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation as the Chief Guest, with Dr. E Balagurusamy, Chairman of the EBG Foundation and Academic Adviser to the Governor of Jharkhand serving as the Guest of Honour and Dr Kuriachan K A, Former District Governor, Rotary International & International Corporate Trainer. The award winners are Shri Soundararajan Bangarusamy (Chairman, Suguna Foods and Suguna Holdings), Shri C K Kumaravel (Co-founder and CEO, Groom India Salons), Shri V C Praveen (Vice Chairman, Sree Gokulam Group of Companies), Dr. Arun N Palaniswami (Executive Director, KMCH group of hospitals), and Shri V R Muthu (Chairman & Co-founder, Idhayam Group).

Marking the MBA Award’s 15-year milestone the initiative has now expanded to other states to recognize 15 outstanding business leaders . As part of this expansion, five leaders from Tamil Nadu has been honored this time, with an additional ten recipients to be recognized in the coming months, as announced by Dr. Ajit Ravi, FICF founder and Chairman of Pegasus. He also mentioned that moving forward, only one recipient will be selected annually for the MBA Award. The MBA Award, which celebrates individuals with assets surpassing Rs 1000 crore, proudly inducted five new laureates from Tamil Nadu into its prestigious ranks. These distinguished winners are now members of the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), an exclusive network of industry leaders with significant assets. The FICF provides a platform for collaboration, innovation, and advocacy, focusing on impactful causes beyond financial achievements.

This year’s awardees join an illustrious group of previous MBA Award recipients, including luminaries such as Shri V P Nandakumar of Manappuram Finance Ltd, Shri Joy Alukkas of Joy Alukkas Group, Shri M A Yusuf Ali who heads the EMKE Group, Shri T S Kalyana Raman of Kalyan Jewellers, Shri P N C Menon of Sobha Developers, Shri Gokulam Gopalan of Gokulam Group, Dr. Ravi Pillai, Founder & MD, R P Group of Companies, Shri M P Ramachandran, Managing Director and Chairman of Jyothy Laboratories, Shri Kochouseph Chitilappilly, Founder, Chairman & CEO of V-Guard Industries Ltd, Shri Sabu M Jacob, MD, Kitex Garments Ltd, Shri Viju Jacob, Managing Director of Synthite Industries Ltd, Dr. A V Anoop, Managing Director, AVA group of companies, Dr. Varghese Kurian, Chairman, VKL Holdings and the Al Namal Group of Companies, Adv Dr P Krishnadas, Chairman & Managing Trustee, Nehru Group of Institutions and Dr. Hafeez Rahman, Chairman, Sunrise Hospitals.

Each member of this esteemed group embodies entrepreneurial spirit and social responsibility, leaving a lasting impact on both the business world and society. As the MBA Award enters its 16th year, the ceremony continues to celebrate business excellence and societal contribution, inspiring future generations of business leaders to follow in the footsteps of these visionaries.

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22nd Alcazar Watches and DQUE Soap Miss South India 2024 Title won by Cinda Padamadan

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The 22nd Miss South India 2024 title organized by Pegasus Global Private Limited in a joint venture of DQUE Soap and Alcazar Watches belongs to Cinda Padamadan from Kerala. Harsha Haridas from Kerala became the first runner-up and Anu Singh from Tamil Nadu became the second runner-up. Former Miss South India winner Harsha Sreekanth crowned the winner. The first runner-up was crowned by Dr Leema Rose Martin and Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd MD, Jebitha Ajit crowned the second runner-up at Miss South India 2024 held at Le Meridien, Coimbatore on August 13.

The results announcement and crowning of Miss South India were conducted under the principal stewardship of Dr Ajit Ravi, Founder of Miss South India and Chairman of Pegasus. The winners were presented with golden tiaras encased in one gram of gold designed by Preethi Parakkat of Parakkat Jewels. 14 contestants selected through various stages from numerous applicants from South India have lined up in the Miss South India 2024 pageant. The competition featured three rounds: Royal Blue Indian Ethnic Wear, Black Cocktail, and Red Gown.

Manappuram Finance Ltd, Saj Group Hotels and Resorts, Naturals Salon, Unique Times and Parakkat Resorts are the Powered by Partners of the event. Aishwarya Advertising, UTWorld, FICF, UT TV, Times New, Kalpana International, Europe Times, DQUE Watches, Crystal, Green Media, Neenu Pro The Sound Experts, JD Institute of Fashion and Technology are the co-partners.

Subtitle winners:

  1. Miss Congeniality – Anu Singh (Tamil Nadu)
  2. Miss Ramp Walk – Chinmayee Yoga Deepthi (Karnataka)
  3. Miss Adorable – Harsha Haridas (Kerala)
  4. Miss Talent – Sanjana Akasam (Telangana)
  5. Miss Humaneness – Cinda Padamadan (Kerala)
  6. Miss Diligent – Shreya Kalmady (Karnataka)
  7. Miss Solidarity – Anu Singh (Tamil Nadu)
  8. Miss Vivacious – Pujitha Kamala D (Andhra)
  9. Miss Inspiring – Kalyani Ajith (Kerala)
  10. Miss Fashionista – Cinda Padamadan (Kerala)

Regional title winners

  1. Miss Queen Kerala – Cinda Padamadan (Kerala)
  2. Miss Queen Karnataka – Chinmayee Yoga Deepthi (Karnataka)
  3. Miss Queen Andhra – Pujitha Kamala D (Andhra)
  4. Miss Tamil Nadu – Anu Singh (Tamil Nadu)
  5. Miss Queen Telangana – Sanjana Akasam (Telangana)

Jaya Mahesh (Model, and Fitness Therapist), Dr K A Kuriachan (Former Rotary Governor and International Corporate Trainer), Rinky Shah (Influencer & Entrepreneur), Lakshmi Atul (Director, Aries Group of Companies) and Reji Bhaskar (Fashion Photographer) were on the judging panel. The winners of the subtitles were selected by a panel of eminent persons

Anu Singh from Tamil Nadu, Chinmayee Yoga Deepthi from Karnataka, Cinda Padamadan from Kerala, Darshana R from Tamil Nadu, Gayatri Gedela from Telangana, Harsha Haridas from Kerala, Kalyani Ajith from Kerala, Nancy Lawrence L from Tamil Nadu, Pujitha Kamala D from Andhra, Rishita Marepalli from Andhra, Sanjana Akasam from Telangana, Seebal Mathew from Karnataka, Shreya Kalmady from Karnataka and Shruthakeerthi E from Tamil Nadu were the other contestants.

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Iran Rejects European Calls for Restraint, Citing International Law Violations

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Iran’s foreign ministry has strongly criticized calls from France, Germany, and Britain urging restraint in response to Israel, labeling these demands as lacking political logic and contradicting international law. The European nations issued their appeal after the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas’s political chief, in Tehran last month, an act for which Tehran and its allies, including Hamas and Hezbollah, hold Israel responsible.

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Nasser Kanaani, condemned the European stance, arguing that it ignores Israel’s alleged violations of Iranian sovereignty and territorial integrity. He asserted that Tehran remains committed to deterring Israel and urged the European nations to oppose the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israel’s actions.

Kanaani further criticized the United Nations Security Council and Western governments, blaming their support for Israel as the primary driver behind the ongoing crisis in Gaza. He called on Paris, Berlin, and London to take a firm stand against what he described as Israel’s warmongering in the region.

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European Privacy Group Files Complaints Against X for Unauthorized Use of User Data

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Vienna-based privacy advocacy group Noyb has lodged complaints against Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) in eight European countries, alleging the company unlawfully utilized users’ personal data to train its artificial intelligence technology without their consent. The complaints come in the wake of similar legal actions by Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC), which had previously initiated court proceedings over X’s data collection practices.

Noyb claims that X began “irreversibly feeding” the personal data of over 60 million European users into its Grok AI system without notifying them or seeking their approval. The group criticized X for failing to inform users proactively, with many learning about the new data processing practice only through a viral social media post.

In response, the DPC has reportedly secured an agreement from X to halt its controversial data processing. However, Noyb founder Max Schrems argues that the DPC’s actions address only the superficial aspects of the issue, calling for a comprehensive investigation into the legality of X’s data processing. Noyb has now requested an urgent review from data protection authorities in Austria, Belgium, France, Greece, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain to ensure full compliance with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

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Celebrating Excellence: The 16th Manappuram Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award Ceremony

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On August 13, at the Le Meridien Hotel in Coimbatore, the 16th Manappuram Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award will celebrate five distinguished business leaders from Tamil Nadu. This prestigious accolade grants recipients membership in the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), an elite network for the world’s wealthiest individuals, each possessing assets of at least ₹1000 crore. The FICF is known for its members’ exceptional business achievements and commitment to social responsibility, encouraging them to use their entrepreneurial prowess for social progress.

Commemorating the MBA Award’s 15-year milestone in Kerala, the initiative now extends to other regions, recognizing 15 leading business figures from each area. This year, Tamil Nadu’s honorees include Shri Soundararajan Bangarusamy (Suguna Foods), Shri CK Kumaravel (Naturals), Shri VC Praveen (Sree Gokulam Group of Companies), Dr. Arun N Palaniswami (KMCH Group of Hospitals), and Shri VR Muthu (Idhayam Group). An additional ten recipients will be acknowledged in the coming months, with Dr. Ajit Ravi, FICF founder and Chairman of Pegasus, announcing a future shift to honoring one recipient annually.

Previous MBA Award winners include Shri VP Nandakumar, Shri Joy Alukkas, Shri MA Yusuff Ali, Shri TS Kalyanaraman, Shri PNC Menon, Shri Gokulam Gopalan, Dr. Ravi Pillai, Shri MP Ramachandran, Shri Kochouseph Chittilappilly, Shri Sabu M Jacob, Dr. Viju Jacob, Dr. AV Anoop, Dr. Varghese Kurian, Adv. Dr. P Krishnadas, and Dr. Hafeez Rahman.

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Chelsea’s Fernandez Apologizes for Controversial Video, FIFA Investigates

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Chelsea footballer Fernandez has issued a public apology after a video surfaced featuring members of the Argentina squad singing a controversial song about France’s black players. The video, posted during celebrations of Argentina’s Copa America victory, prompted widespread condemnation for its racially offensive content. In response, FIFA has launched an investigation into the incident, with both the French Football Federation (FFF) and anti-discrimination organizations expressing outrage and calling for accountability.

In his apology, Fernandez, Chelsea’s £107m record signing, expressed regret for his involvement in the video, stating that the words used do not reflect his beliefs or character. Chelsea Football Club has initiated an internal disciplinary procedure, and anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out has emphasized the need for educational measures and accountability beyond mere apologies. The FFF has announced plans to file a complaint with FIFA against the Argentine Football Association, condemning the remarks as contrary to the values of sport and human rights.

FIFA, in response to the incident, has strongly condemned all forms of discrimination and is actively investigating the matter. The controversy underscores ongoing concerns about racism in football, prompting calls for comprehensive action to address such behavior both within clubs and at international levels.

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Indian news

VPN IBE (FMB Awards): A Night of Excellence in Cinema, Business, and Media

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Le Meridien Kochi sparkled with glitz and glamour as the VPN IBE (FMB Awards) gala unfolded, a collaborative effort by Pegasus Group and Manappuram Finance Ltd. This grand event was dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the luminaries who have carved their names in the annals of cinema, business, and media with their exceptional talent and dedication.

In a momentous acknowledgment of his cinematic legacy, Shri Balachandra Menon was honored with the prestigious Film Iconic Legacy Award. The Media Excellence Award found its deserving recipient in Mr. Johny Lukose, while Mr. Gokulam Gopalan was hailed as the Business Visionary Award winner for his groundbreaking contributions to the corporate world.

Distributing these coveted accolades was none other than Shri V. P. Nandakumar, the distinguished MD & CEO of Manappuram Finance Ltd, adding an aura of reverence to the proceedings. With the esteemed presence of Show Director Ajit Ravi, the VPN IBE (FMB Awards) gala became not just a celebration of achievement, but a beacon of inspiration for future generations striving for excellence in their chosen fields.

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Manappuram Finance Ltd Champions Women’s Empowerment: Unique Times Conclave 2024

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Scheduled for May 13th at 11 am at Le Meridien in Kochi, the 2024 Unique Times Conclave, in collaboration with Manappuram Finance Limited, will celebrate the theme “Entrepreneurship as a Tool for Women’s Empowerment.” This event will focus on the influential role of entrepreneurship in fostering progress for women across various sectors. Manappuram Finance Ltd, as the event’s main sponsor, is committed to enhancing the visibility of women in the business world. Coordinated by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, the conclave is set to be a vibrant forum for meaningful conversations and empowering stories, with Dr. Fathima Nilufer Sheriff, founder and CEO of Therefore I’m, steering the discussions.

An esteemed panel will feature at the conclave, including Mrs. Sheila Kochouseph Chittilappilly of V Star Creations Pvt Ltd, Mrs. Nazneen Jehangir of NeST Digital, alongside notable personalities like Mrs. Parveen Hafeez, Adv Anna Linda Eden, Dr. Elizabeth Chacko, Dr. Lekshmi Nair, Dr. Radha P Thevannoor, and Ms. Devika Shreyams Kumar of Mathrubhumi Group. These influential leaders will discuss the empowering impact of entrepreneurship for women, drawing from their extensive experiences.

The conclave will also include the presentation of the Women’s Excellence Award 2024, recognizing remarkable achievements by women in diverse areas. V P Nandakumar, CEO and Managing Director of Manappuram Finance Ltd, will honor the awardees as the chief guest. Supported by the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF) and DQUE Soap, the event gains additional prestige. The FICF, known for its dedication to business excellence and social responsibility, sponsors this important initiative, celebrating both business success and philanthropic efforts. This partnership between Unique Times and Manappuram Finance Ltd underscores their collective dedication to advancing women’s entrepreneurship and societal enhancement.

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Winter Olympics: Kamila Valieva’s Failed Drug Test Has Been Confirmed

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Kamila Valieva, a teen Russian figure skater, failed a drugs test in December, according to the International Testing Agency (ITA). The 15-year-old assisted the Russian Olympic Committee in winning team figure skating gold on Monday, but the medals were not awarded due to a “legal issue.”

The Russian Anti-Doping Agency (Rusada) lifted her suspension, allowing her to compete in the Olympics in Beijing. According to the ITA, Valieva, the first female skater to land a quadruple jump in competition, had a sample taken on Christmas Day at the Russian Figure Skating Championships in St Petersburg. It was sent to a laboratory accredited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) in Stockholm, Sweden.

The result was only announced on February 8, the day after she won team gold but before the medal ceremony. Valieva tested positive for trimetazidine, which is used to prevent angina attacks but is prohibited by Wada because it is classified as a cardiac metabolic modulator and has been shown to improve physical efficiency.

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A journalist arrested in Turkey is accused of insulting the president

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Journalist jailed in Turkey for insulting the country’s president. Turkish journalist Sedef Kabas has been jailed by a Turkish court. Kabas was arrested in Istanbul on Saturday and ordered by a court to be jailed before the trial.

The proverb quoted by Kabas in a live broadcast on a TV channel affiliated with the opposition was allegedly aimed at President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Kabas, however, denied this. The journalist faces up to one to four years in prison.

“There is a very famous saying that a crowned head belongs to a wise man, but we see that it is not true. The bull will not be king only if he enters the palace, the palace will be a barn,” she told Tele11. Later, they tweeted the same words. Erdogan’s spokesman Fahretin Alton called their comments irresponsible.

He tweeted that a so-called journalist on a television channel that had no other purpose than to spread hatred was nakedly insulting our president. Kabas, however, denied that he had insulted the president in court. She said she had no such intention. Mardan Yanardag, editor of Tele1 channel, criticized Kabas’ arrest.

“It is unacceptable that they were detained at two o’clock in the morning for a proverb,” ​​he said. He said the move was an attempt to intimidate journalists, the media and the community. Erdogan was prime minister for 11 years before becoming the country’s first directly elected president in August 2014. His silencing of critics has caused concern in EU countries. This cooled relations with the European Union and prevented Turkey from attempting to join the EU. Erdogan has been charged with insulting thousands of people since he became president. By 2020, more than 31,000 inquiries have been filed in connection with the crime, Reuters news agency reports.

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