Author: Team

Tata AutoComp Acquires IAC Sweden, Enhancing Its Global Footprint

Bengaluru , Monday, 25th March 2025 – Tata AutoComp Systems Ltd., a leading Indian automotive components manufacturer, has announced the acquisition of International Automotive Components Group Sweden AB (IAC Sweden), with a turnover of approx. $800 million, a well-established manufacturer of interior systems and components to the automotive industry.

This strategic acquisition reinforces Tata AutoComp’s presence in Sweden and enhances the company’s relationships with key European OEMs in both the passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle segments, further expanding its global footprint. With this acquisition, Tata AutoComp consolidates its position as one of India’s largest automotive component manufacturers and strengthens its presence in Europe’s automotive sector. The acquisition of IAC Sweden will present strong synergy opportunities, allowing Tata AutoComp to leverage advanced manufacturing capabilities, cutting-edge technology, and well-established customer relationships in the premium automotive space.

The transaction is subject to European regulatory approvals.

Commenting on the proposed acquisition and how it aligns with their business, Mr. Arvind Goel, Vice Chairman of Tata AutoComp Systems said, “We are delighted to welcome IAC Sweden into the Tata AutoComp family. This acquisition aligns with our long-term vision of expanding in global markets and strengthening our relationships with European OEMs. IAC Sweden has a strong legacy of delivering high-quality interior solutions, and we look forward to working together to drive innovation and excellence in the automotive industry. This move reinforces our commitment to driving sustainable, high-quality, and customer-centric automotive solutions across geographies.”

Enjoy the Best of Cinema at Infiniti Mall This April

Mumbai, 25th March 2025: Infiniti Mall, a premium luxury shopping and entertainment destination, is set to make April evenings unforgettable with its exclusive open-air movie screenings, starting from 7 PM onwards. As the gentle breeze enhances the magic of cinema, visitors can enjoy a unique blend of leisure and entertainment in a cozy setting.

This month’s lineup features diverse films catering to all tastes. The screenings kick off with the adventure-filled Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, a film that celebrates friendship, self-discovery, and the thrill of life.

Families and animation lovers can enjoy the delightful comedy Penguins of Madagascar, packed with humour and action.

The nostalgia continues with the beloved Bollywood classic Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gam, a story of love, family, and traditions.

Wrapping up the month of April, film enthusiasts can step into the charming streets of Paris with Midnight in Paris, a whimsical tale of time travel, romance, and art.

Whether watching solo, with family, or with someone special, Infiniti Mall’s open-air movie screenings promise an enchanting escape, making every screening a night to remember.

Livlong 365 Expects Rapid User Growth by FY2026 Through ABHA Integration

Mumbai, 25 March 2025 – Livlong 365, India’s leading OPD healthcare platform, has officially integrated with Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA), marking a significant leap in digital healthcare accessibility and interoperability. Now available on both Android and iOS, Livlong 365 enables users to create, link, and manage their ABHA ID, ensuring seamless access to health records across hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers. This integration is expected to drive 200–300% growth in ABHA linkages over the next 12–18 months, further aligning with India’s Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) and boosting digital health adoption nationwide.

This milestone aligns with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), which aims to create a unified digital health ecosystem for India. By integrating ABHA, individuals can securely store, share, and retrieve medical records, eliminating paperwork and enhancing healthcare efficiency. The ABHA integration is projected to increase user adoption by 150–200% in the first year, as users gain the ability to download and link their health records across multiple service providers, including Livlong 365.

Gaurav Dubey, Founder & CEO of Livlong 365, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating , “Our integration with ABHA is a pivotal step in revolutionizing healthcare delivery through a seamlessly connected, technology-driven ecosystem. By ensuring efficient data exchange, this initiative empowers patients with uninterrupted, high-quality care while enabling insurers to make more informed risk assessments. This alignment with the national healthcare vision strengthens transparency, efficiency, and accessibility—laying the foundation for a more resilient and patient-centric healthcare system. Livlong 365 is proud to align with the Central Government’s initiative of shaping a future where technology enhances every touchpoint of healthcare, ensuring better outcomes for all.”

For years, India’s healthcare system has struggled with fragmented records, misplaced prescriptions, and unorganized patient histories. The integration of ABHA with Livlong 365 streamlines healthcare management by providing a single digital health ID for all medical records. Patients gain full control over their medical data, ensuring consent-based, secure sharing with healthcare providers. This enables faster doctor consultations, seamless access to hospitals and diagnostic centers, and improved emergency care through instant availability of medical history.

With the increasing adoption of tech-driven healthcare solutions, the ABHA-Livlong integration is set to accelerate the transition to a paperless, data-driven healthcare system in India. As the country moves towards a digital-first healthcare framework, this initiative reinforces Livlong 365’s commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and security.

NTT DATA Launches Cutting-Edge Agentic AI Services for Hyperscaler AI Technologies

LONDON; March 25: NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, today announced the launch of its Agentic AI Services for Hyperscaler AI Technologies. This transformative suite of services helps organizations easily adopt, build, manage and scale AI-powered agents to improve efficiencies, unlock innovation and enhance employee and customer experiences, maximizing returns on AI investments.

This unique suite of services addresses the growing demand for agentic AI solutions that offer personalized experiences. This news builds on NTT DATA’s recently announced Smart AI Agent™, enabling enterprises to integrate AI-driven automation across business functions. Unlike traditional automation, Agentic AI understands user needs, engages naturally and handles complex interactions, empowering organizations to confidently scale their AI capabilities while ensuring optimization and success.

NTT DATA’s Agentic AI Services for Hyperscaler AI Technologies offers the industry’s most comprehensive suite of services for AI. These services support every stage of an organization’s agentic AI journey with cloud providers – from advisory and building AI agents to implementation, connectivity and ongoing managed services.

Applicable across all industries including manufacturing, banking and healthcare, these services help organizations maximize AI investments and responsibly innovate while ensuring ongoing optimization and success. Available in over 20 languages across every major market, NTT DATA ensures seamless global adoption.

By integrating its agentic AI with generative AI, including large and small language models, these AI agents can perform tasks more rapidly, accurately and efficiently with fewer errors. NTT DATA also helps to ensure clients that once AI agents are deployed, they remain secure, up-to-date and continuously improved. By connecting AI agents to hyperscaler data centers, NTT DATA helps to enable more personalized, natural interactions, making AI-driven services more intuitive and effective.

Meeting the demand for scalable AI solutions

Enterprise AI investments are accelerating. According to Gartner®, “by 2028, the market for artificial intelligence services will reach $609 billion with a five-year annual growth rate of 21.4% in constant U.S. dollars.” Additionally Gartner also states that “By 2028, “33% of enterprise software applications will include agentic AI, up from less than 1% in 2024, enabling 15% of day-to-day work decisions to be made autonomously.”

NTT DATA’s own Global GenAI Report reflects this trend, showing organizations are increasingly prioritizing agentic AI for back-office and workflow optimization in 2025. The report also found that 96% of CIOs and CTOs prefer cloud-based solution methods.

“Agentic AI will revolutionize business operations and NTT DATA is at the forefront of this transformation,” said Charlie Li, Global Head of Cloud & Security, NTT DATA, Inc. “As the first global provider to offer comprehensive agentic AI services with a focus on AI agent management, we are empowering organizations to invest in AI agents with confidence– unlocking unprecedented efficiency and innovation while enhancing the experiences they provide to their employees and customers.”

Flexible agentic AI services

• NTT DATA’s Agentic AI Services for Hyperscaler AI Technologies are available in flexible packages, allowing organizations to scale AI adoption with industry leading support that can easily align to clients’ budgets, resources and timeframes.
• Advisory services: Guidance on adopting and optimizing agentic AI solutions, including planning, design, GenAI, business process optimization and automation tailored to specific business needs.
• Implementation services: AI agent configuration, integration and deployment focused on security, compliance and performance optimization with complementary change management options.
• Ongoing AI management services: Continuous monitoring, troubleshooting, data governance and detailed reporting and analytics.
• Connectivity: Seamless connectivity across all channels using NTT DATA’s cloud-native global connectivity services for voice, chat and mobile integration, ensuring consistent monitoring and compliance with local regulations.

Advanced expertise to accelerate innovation with hyperscalers

NTT DATA is uniquely positioned to deliver innovative and comprehensive capabilities and services as a systems integrator, managed services provider and carrier. This allows for faster and more efficient deployment of AI agents anchored in our commitment to responsible AI.

NTT DATA is launching its Agentic AI Services for Hyperscaler AI Technologies with an initial focus on Microsoft platforms. As the leading Microsoft Cloud Voice partner and a top provider of Copilot for Microsoft 365, NTT DATA is well-positioned to help enterprises integrate AI agents into their daily operations.

By leveraging cutting-edge tools such as Azure AI Foundry and Copilot Studio, NTT DATA agents are equipped to deliver even more innovative and effective solutions to clients.

“AI-powered agents are transforming how businesses operate, and we are excited to collaborate with NTT DATA to help organizations embrace this new era of AI-powered innovation,” said Maziar Zolghadr, General Manager Global Communications Partners, Microsoft. “Combining Microsoft’s AI technologies with NTT DATA’s expertise in AI agent building, deployment and management we are empowering enterprises to create more intelligent experiences for their employees and clients.”

Real-world applications across industries

NTT DATA’s Agentic AI Services for Hyperscaler AI Technologies offer solutions across functions and use cases, providing easy-to-implement solutions such as:

• Customer service: Automating query resolution and enabling self-service to reduce wait times.
• Billing and scheduling: Streamlining repetitive tasks to save time and improve operational efficiency.
• Training and onboarding: Accelerating employee onboarding and skills development.
• Logistics and risk management: Enhancing processes like fraud protection and data analysis for insight-driven decisions.
• HR and sales assistants: Offering voice, chat and messaging options for improved communication and task management.
• Workflow automation: Smart assistants optimize task routing process management.

Future growth and expansion

With today’s launch, NTT DATA builds on its established GenAI capabilities, further strengthening its position as a leader in AI-driven enterprise solutions.

NTT DATA’s Agentic AI Services for Hyperscaler AI Technologies are designed to work with a wide range of AI platforms and will continue to expand to support new technologies. These services are integral to NTT DATA’s broader managed services portfolio across cloud, networking and cybersecurity.

QualiZeal Advances DEI Goals with Workforce Reintegration Program for Women

India, March 2025 – QualiZeal, a leader in modern quality engineering, yesterday unveiled Restart with QualiZeal, an initiative to empower women professionals to re-enter the workforce after a career break.

QualiZeal believes that talent, expertise, and ambition do not fade with time but recognizes the challenges women face when re-entering the workforce after a career break. The Restart with QualiZeal program addresses these barriers by offering structured training, mentorship, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities aligned with past experience—helping women rebuild their careers with confidence.

With a 43% women-strong workforce, QualiZeal leads in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) through initiatives like GHCoE, which nurtures women in tech via industry partnerships, and SheConnect, a networking platform that empowers and uplifts women professionals.

Speaking about QualiZeal’s commitment to gender diversity and equality, Madhu Murty, Co-Founder & Head of India Operations, QualiZeal, said, “True innovation flourishes in an environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our rapid growth is fueled by exceptional talent, and we are committed to ensuring that every professional—regardless of career breaks—has the opportunity to thrive. ‘Restart with QualiZeal’ is not just about welcoming women back into the workforce; it’s about leveraging their expertise, resilience, and fresh perspectives to create a stronger, more dynamic future for the tech industry.”

Since 2021, QualiZeal has achieved a remarkable 71% CAGR, solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing companies in the digital quality engineering space. With strong momentum, the company is on track to reach $100 million in annual revenue and expand to a 3,000+ skilled workforce by 2028.

Further reinforcing its expansion strategy, QualiZeal recently launched its third Capability Center in India, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey. This new facility strengthens its 850-strong workforce, with plans for continued rapid expansion to support increasing global demand for quality engineering solutions.

Exploring TOTO’s Unique Underneath Seat Cover Technology and Its Inception

India, 25th March 2025 – Since introduction of WASHLET in 1980’s, our WASHLET has become synonym with innovation and comfort, trusted by millions worldwide. By 2022, Sales of WASHLET surpassed an impressive 60 million units globally, reflecting its growing popularity. Led by the tremendous surge in growth from India post-COVID-19, TOTO India has recorded a 2X growth in WASHLET units sold in the last three years; cementing its emergence as one of the brand’s key markets worldwide. TOTO has revolutionary focus on the underside of the toilet seat has given rise to its latest breakthrough: EWATER+ for UNDER SEAT. This feature addresses a frequently overlooked yet critical hygiene concern—the cleanliness beneath the seat cover—where stains and bacteria often accumulate. By prioritizing this area, TOTO sets a new benchmark in restroom technology.

The Challenge of Keeping Underneath the Seat Clean

The underside of the toilet seat is a common trouble spot, particularly prone to the accumulation of urine splashes and bacterial growth. Over time, these contaminants can lead to stubborn yellow stains that are difficult to remove. User surveys conducted in July 2020 among 800 purchasers of warm-water washing toilet seats across various countries revealed this concern to be universal. Regardless of geography, a significant percentage of respondents identified the area beneath the seat as a primary worry.

The EWATER+ Solution

EWATER+ specifically targets the area underneath the toilet seat. After each use, it automatically sprays electrolyzed water made from tap water beneath the front of the seat. This advanced cleaning process effectively prevents fouling caused by urine splashes and inhibits the growth of bacteria. Furthermore, EWATER+ sprays again automatically Post 8 hours after the last use, ensuring continuous cleanliness and Hygiene.

What makes EWATER+ stand out is its environment friendly technology. Generated from tap water, the electrolyzed water contains no harmful chemicals and naturally reverts to regular water over time, making it safe and sustainable for everyday use.

Real-World Impact

To showcase the effectiveness of EWATER+, practical tests were conducted with families of four. Over a two-week period, toilets equipped with EWATER+ showed nearly no yellow staining beneath the front of the seat, while those without the feature exhibited significant fouling and discoloration. These results demonstrate how TOTO has innovation in approach eliminates a persistent hygiene issue and provides a long-lasting clean.

The Inspiration Behind the Invention

The inspiration for EWATER+ stemmed from TOTO as company has dedication to addressing user concerns and enhancing daily life through thoughtful innovation. By studying the areas of the toilet that are most prone to dirt and bacteria, the company identified a critical gap in existing cleaning technologies. This insight drove the development of EWATER+ for UNDER SEAT, a solution that combines advanced science with user-centric design.

Shaping the Future of Hygiene

With EWATER+ for UNDER SEAT, TOTO has redefined what it means to maintain a clean and hygienic restroom. By focusing on the underside of the toilet seat, the company has tackled a problem that is often overlooked, delivering a solution that enhances both comfort and peace of mind.

As hygiene awareness continues to grow worldwide, EWATER+ and its innovative focus on underneath seat cover cleanliness positions TOTO as a leader in sustainable and effective restroom technology. Join the movement towards a cleaner, healthier future with ground breaking EWATER+ for UNDER SEAT proposed by TOTO.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Announces Bhavnish Lathia’s Appointment as CTO

Bengaluru, 25th March 2025 –Kotak Mahindra Bank today announced the appointment of Bhavnish Lathia as the new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the Bank.

Announcing the appointment, Ashok Vaswani, MD & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, “Bhavnish has been instrumental in driving our technology initiatives for the last three years, building a world-class team of engineers to help drive our technology agenda. The rapid deployment of technology, with business leaders working closely with their respective technology teams, will be key to transforming our businesses for scale. This approach will drive customer satisfaction and organizational efficiency. And with Bhavnish’s leadership, we will achieve our ambitious agenda and set the bar for technology leadership in the banking industry.”

Bhavnish Lathia, CTO, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, “I am honoured to take on this new role at Kotak Mahindra Bank. Technology is a key driver of our strategy to transform for scale, and I am excited to lead our efforts in this area. Together with our talented team, we will continue to push the boundaries of innovation to deliver exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders.”

Bhavnish’s appointment is part of Kotak’s strategic efforts to strengthen its leadership team and drive growth through innovation. His leadership will be crucial in ensuring that Kotak remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the banking sector.

PropEquity: Housing Sales Down 23%, Supply Declines by 34% in 9 Cities for Q1 2025

New Delhi, March 25, 2025: The housing market continued its downward trend with housing sales in India’s top 9 cities falling by 23% while supply declining by a whopping 34% in Jan-March of 2025, said a report by NSE-listed data analytics firm PropEquity.

Housing sales in Q1 2025 stood at 1,05,791 units as compared to 1,36,702 units in the same period last year.

Except Bengaluru and Delhi-NCR, all 7 cities witnessed a decline in sales.

Housing supply, on the other hand, stood at 80,774 units in Q1 2025 as compared to 1,22,365 units in the same period last year, marking three consecutive quarters of under-1 lakh units launched.

Except Bengaluru, all 8 cities saw a decline in new supply in the first quarter.

Samir Jasuja, Founder & CEO, PropEquity said: “The housing market is witnessing some correction after three years (2021, 2022, 2023) of record supply because of which absorption/sales is also on a declining trend. Rise in home prices and caution on the part of investors due to geo-political developments and certain weaknesses in the Indian economy have resulted in drop in sales. However, the market has displayed strong demand as is evident from the healthy absorption to supply ratio, which stood at 131% in Q1 2025, 132% in Q4 2024 and 127% in Q3 2024.”

“The traditionally high supply markets – Hyderabad, Pune and Thane – continue to decline. These cities had the highest supply among all tier 1 cities for 2 years running 2022 and 2023 before touching a low in 2024. In this quarter, they cumulatively saw 28,227 units of lesser supply as compared to the same period last year. In fact, the share of the three cities to the total launches has come down from to 29% in Q1 2025 as compared to 38% in the same period last year.”

Housing sales increased by 10% to 18,508 units in Bengaluru in Q1 2025, with the city accounting for 17% of the total sales, rising from 12% in Q1 2024.

Sales rose 10% in Delhi-NCR to 11,221 units in Q1 2025 with the city accounting for 11% of the total sales, rising from 7% in Q1 2024.

Sales dropped the most in Hyderabad (47%), followed by Mumbai 36%, Pune 33%, Kolkata 28%, Thane 27%, Navi Mumbai 7% and Chennai 2%.

Housing supply rose by 17% in Bengaluru to 20,227 units in Q1 2025. The city accounted for 25% of the total launches in Q1 2025, rising from 14% in the same period last year.

It fell the most in Kolkata at 62% followed by 50% each in Mumbai and Thane, 48% in Pune, 46% in Chennai, 38% in Hyderabad, 24% in Navi Mumbai and 14% in Delhi-NCR.