Author: Neel Achary

Kotak Life signs MoU with Directorate General Resettlement (DGR) to Provide Employment Opportunities for Ex-Servicemen

New Delhi, 12th June 2023: Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company Limited (Kotak Life) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR), an Inter Service organization functioning directly under the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (Ministry of Defense) to offer employment opportunities to Ex-Servicemen of the Defence Services.

As per the MoU, Kotak Life will recruit Ex-Servicemen for various roles in the company and its affiliates by offering jobs across multiple distribution channels. This initiative aligns with Kotak Life’s recruitment strategy to foster diversity and tap into the immense potential of the disciplined, hardworking, and resilient individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting our nation.

Major General Sharad Kapur, YSM, SM, Director General Resettlement said, “Our partnership with Kotak Life increases the visibility of our ex-servicemen in the corporate sector and helps in achieving the objectives of providing skilled manpower and giving them a dignified second career.”

Mahesh Balasubramanian, Managing Director, Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance Company said, “Through this initiative, it is our sincere endeavour to acknowledge the service of our ex-servicemen bravehearts who have served and protected our nation. The partnership aims to leverage the skills and dedication of our armed force personnel by offering to continue serving the nation through life insurance coverage.

The collaboration will enable retired Ex-Servicemen to maintain a work-life balance while staying close to their families in their hometowns.”

eye square to offer brands understand meaningful attention through its “Live in Context” tool

12th June 2023: eye square, an innovative market research company, has launched Live in Context, a unique tool to help brands measure the useful attention of their customers. Instead of only using self-reported data, the tool watches how users act in real-world situations. This complete way to measure attention gives businesses answers to important questions to devise impactful marketing strategies.

The tool/software offers aid to brands in assessing the performance of new products within a competitive market, gauging their success. It provides valuable insights to find pack images that foster increased customer interaction. Moreover, it assists in evaluating the impact of pricing and promotions on conversion rates, enhancing decision-making. By improving product image galleries, it enhances the visual appeal and engagement of potential customers. Additionally, it helps to determine the efficacy of investing in A+ content, enabling informed decisions. In the end, these findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of ROI and enable the refinement of marketing strategies for enhanced effectiveness.

Volga Benjamin Fernandez, Director (India), eye square, said, “Paying attention that truly matters goes beyond mere time spent or superficial interest. It requires creating impactful experiences that leave a lasting impression. By using perception research methods like eye square‘s “Live in Context” tool, companies can gain valuable insights into user behavior, enhancing their marketing strategies. Understanding attention‘s nonlinear nature and the key determining factors unlocks digital campaigns’ full potential, leading to exceptional results in today’s dynamic digital landscape.”

“Instead of just looking at the amount of time spent on an ad, it’s better to test its effectiveness based on the purchasing power of its target group.” – Jeff Bander- President, eye square INC

Furthermore, according to eye square‘s research, longer ad viewing does not guarantee improved recall or recognition. Comparative analysis across platforms offers deeper insights. Differentiating between image ads and performance ads is crucial. While branding ads capture attention, performance ads drive higher sales. Thus, examining factors determining attention‘s impact on engagement is essential. Evaluating effectiveness based on target audience purchasing behavior yields superior results. Understanding attention nuances and tailoring strategies can empower businesses to resonate with their audience and make informed decisions.

SAYA Gold Avenue’s Family Grows Bigger With 1001 Families

SAYA Group, NCR’s renowned real estate developer, delightfully announces the expansion of the SAYA Gold Avenue family with the inclusion of 1001 new families. SAYA Gold Avenue, a one-of-a-kind residential project, has established itself as a symbol of luxury and elevated living, and the addition of these families further enhances the project’s stature.

SAYA Gold Avenue perfectly blends modernity, luxury, comfort, and affordability. The exceptionally high towers are a testament to upscale and trendy architecture. Every aspect of the project has been meticulously designed to cater to the discerning taste of the residents. Located in the heart of Indirapuram and close to NH-24, it offers unparalleled connectivity for a truly comfortable living experience. Residents enjoy easy access to various amenities and recreational facilities, ensuring a convenient and enriching lifestyle.

Mr. Vikas Bhasin, Managing Director, SAYA Group, said, “We are thrilled to hit the mark of hosting 1001 families in the SAYA Gold Avenue community. The overwhelming response to our project is a testament to our commitment to excellence and our dedication to creating homes that truly elevate the residents’ lifestyles. We sincerely appreciate the faith our buyers have shown in us and strive to provide them with the best-in-class living experience. SAYA Gold Avenue is more than just a residential project; it is a testament to our vision of creating spaces that combine luxury, comfort, and affordability.”

The SAYA Group remains committed to delivering projects that exceed expectations and redefine modern living standards. With the inclusion of 1001 families, SAYA Gold Avenue continues to establish itself as a landmark project that sets new benchmarks in residential development.

Jindal Aluminium Marks 53rd Anniversary with Celebrations of Excellence

Enriching Society through Aluminium Products: Jindal Aluminium upholds its No.1 position as India’s largest Aluminium extrusion company

Bengaluru, June 11, 2023: Jindal Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium extrusion company, has produced a record 1,06,000 metric tons of extruded Aluminium products. The company has maintained its position as India’a largest Aluminium extruded products manufacturer since its inception. Its dominant position in Aluminium Extrusion is a testament to its commitment to delivering high-quality products in the shortest lead time using best-in-class technology. The company witnessed a year-on-year growth of 16% in its revenue for FY22-23.

By prioritizing innovation and value, the company has maintained its position as a prominent player in the industry while striving toward a prosperous, sustainable future. Jindal Aluminium has used 100% renewable energy at its manufacturing units in Bengaluru (Bangalore) and Dabaspet. It was the first company to set up wind power plants in 1997 in Karnataka. Since then, the company has used renewable energy to produce engineered Aluminium products.

As a strong sustainability proponent, Jindal Aluminium benchmarked modern green manufacturing practices two decades ago.

Speaking on occasion, its Vice-chairman and Managing Director, Mr. Pragun Khaitan, said, “As we look towards the future, Jindal Aluminium remains committed to its core values of innovation, efficiency, and excellence. We constantly strive to improve manufacturing processes using technology and generate more value for our customers, people, and the planet.”

Thanks to its expertise in manufacturing intricate Aluminium profiles and well-known quality products, the company has been successfully exporting to over 45 countries. It is also resolute in spending much on R&D to find novel uses for Aluminium in different industries positioning itself to take advantage of rising markets in India, such as EVs, packaging, and batteries.

“Our unwavering focus on excellence sets us apart and enables us to maintain our leadership position in the industry.” adds the Vice-chairman and Managing Director of Jindal Aluminium Jindal Aluminium is focused on new opportunities in domestic manufacturing and continuously increasing its export market share. The company plans to add capacity through both organic and inorganic options. The company has concluded an INR 100 crore acquisition of Indo Alusys Industries Limited (IAIL-Bhiwadi) assets and announced the successful commencement of production at the revived Bhiwadi unit in 2022. The company is also adding up further production.

Marquez stuns with third front row in three races

MotoGP 2023 Round 6, Gran Premio d’Italia

Italy, June 11, 2023: Another phenomenal front-row performance from Marc Marquez was converted into a safe seventh place in a tense Sprint at the Italian GP.

Marc Marquez’s incredible run of Qualifying form continued as the eight-time World Champion produced his third front row from three appearances. As just one of two riders under the 1’45 barrier, Marquez was only bested by home hero Francesco Bagnaia with 0.078s splitting the pair. The performance surprised even Marquez himself, who was delighted with the front row.

Weather forecasts and dark clouds had loomed overhead for much of the day at the Autodromo Internazionale Del Mugello and spints of rain would make a brief appearance in the Sprint race. Defending an early attack from Jack Miller into Turn 1, Marquez held onto his second place as the 11-lap Sprint began. Spots of localized rain in the opening laps would bunch up the top ten and send the Italian crowd into a frenzy as they battled.

A small moment of contact between Miller and Marquez saw the #93 run wide, losing touch with the top five and settling in to chase down Miller in the battle for sixth. Less than 0.2s split the pair as they crossed the line, Marquez taking seventh place and content with the result which matched his pre-race predictions.

Marquez and the Repsol Honda Team will have another chance to battle around the 5.5 kilometres of the Mugello circuit on Sunday, June 11 as the Gran Premio d’Italia is scheduled for 14:00 Local Time.

Marc Marquez (seventh)

“The front row earlier today was really unexpected; this was a really positive point from today but we remained realistic about our targets. Today’s result in the Sprint was not a surprise, it’s what I was expecting before the day began. I tried to put together the perfect race and to stay right there in the group, waiting for an opportunity. We had a moment with Miller, it was nothing strange, just racing, but from that moment I lost a lot of positions and worked on rebuilding my race. Let’s see what will happen tomorrow.”

Italian GP – Sprint Race

The ISB where I studied never invited me: Aman Gupta, Shark on Shark Tank India, Entrepreneur and Investor

The ISB where I studied never invited me. Ghar Ki Murgi Daal Barbar. Indian business schools doubt the value of their own people: Aman Gupta, Shark on Shark Tank India, Entrepreneur and Investor

Hyderabad, June 10, 2023: Ghar Ki Murgi Daal Barbar(Familiarity breeds contempt). People often take for granted the things that are familiar to them. The same may be the case with ISB (Indian School of Business), where I studied. Harvard Business School invited me. It calls me every year. It wrote a case study on us, but ISB ignored me, it never invited me. Looks like Indian business schools don’t value their own people, said Aman Gupta, Shark Tank India fame.

But Hyderabad is the lucky city for me. I have so many memories of this place. Many firsts have happened here, he said.

boAt, the company I co-founded, created history. It has become the 2nd biggest wearable brand in the world. We placed India on the global wearables map, homegrown brand achieving it is a matter of great pride. boAt has also solidified its position in the Indian market by capturing significant market share, shared Aman Gupta.

Indian brands are here to stay and they are all set to go places, he declared. People are buying Indian brands, he said.

I worked with JBL, an American audio equipment manufacturer. Now I am the biggest competitor to them, he said.

He was in the city at the invitation of the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO). He addressed 200 plus members on “Ride on the Waves of Success with The Great Indian Shark with Aman Gupta” on Saturday evening at Hotel Park in Somajiguda.

Giving her welcome address Ritu Shah, Chairperson of FLO Hyderabad recalled what once Hillary Clinton said, ‘Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world — Talent which once given direction shall take them a long way in life”. Historically women faced many challenges and barriers. And they overcame with determination.

The hall was packed. Women were very enthusiastic to listen to him. Seeing in such large numbers, he said “I am nervous. I have never addressed so many women in one place”. He struggled a bit in the begging but gained confidence and earned their trust. He was at his best with his humour. He made his 45 minutes talk very jovial and fun.

I had six failures before boAt happened. I never looked back. In a short span, we have reached the 1 crore units mark. Nearly 5000 people work in our company. The valuation of our company is Rs 10,000 crore. I hold a 25% share. Our sales revenues stand at Rs 4000 crore. We were profitable on day one. I don’t have to work for money. I have sufficient money. I no longer run my business. It is now run by professionals. What drives me most is people, their energy and enthusiasm. I invest in people. I love being busy. I like to inspire people.

Now I am being invited to deliver guest lectures and I am paid for it. The additional money now I make by way of speaking assignments I give to charity, he said.

Aman Gupta admitted that he was never a technocrat. But, JBL where he worked had made some good learning. And some of the people who were his colleagues joined him to build boAt, technically superior products. He was asked what if his own colleagues desert him and pose a competition. He replied that he takes care of his employees well. I don’t want another Aman Gupta born out of my company he said.

When asked between Idea and execution, what he prefers? The idea is good, but the execution is great. Success comes sometimes out of hard work, luck, idea, execution and what have you, he said.

He gave eight lessons of success that guided him through his success. They are 01. Customer is king, 2. Frugality, 3. Back to basics, 5. Do what floats your boat, 6. Money and Mann, 7. Let youngsters run your business and 8. Ham bhi bana (we too can do) attitude.

HSBC India partners with Tata Motors to promote mass adoption of Electric Vehicles

Bengaluru, June 10, 2023: HSBC India today announced that it has partnered with Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile manufacturer and the pioneer of EV revolution in the country, for a corporate employee financing solution to accelerate the adoption of zero emission Electric Vehicles. This partnership is in line with the shared vision of the two conscientious organizations to promote sustainability and de-carbonize road transport, paving the way for a greener and cleaner future.

Consumers holding a salaried account with HSBC India will get a chance to apply for this one-of-a-kind tailor made loan to purchase an electric vehicle of their choice from Tata Motors’ EV portfolio. As a part of this scheme, customers will be able to apply for a loan with zero down payment, no hypothecation, low processing fee and no documentation charges, amongst others, making the overall EV buying procedure not only simple but highly attractive for all prospective customers. Furthermore, as an added advantage, customers opting for this loan will also get a special accessory kit for their Tata EVs.

Commenting on the partnership, Shri Suman Bery, Hon’ble Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog said, “De-carbonization is a key agenda for our Government which is reflected in the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions. In line with the Panchamrit Goals articulated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government has taken significant measures to promote Electric Vehicles (EVs) as well as other clean mobility solutions. India has the capability of becoming the number one EV manufacturing hub in the world. We are focused on growing this ecosystem across the country which, in turn, will provide a fillip to the adoption of EVs and propel our transition towards clean and green mobility. While we are focused on building momentum and creating enabling infrastructure, we look forward to the support of corporates in this endeavour. We welcome the efforts of HSBC India and Tata Motors in creating awareness and promoting access to EVs, along with their commitment to India’s larger vision of transitioning towards green mobility solutions.”

Commenting on this partnership, Mr. Shailesh Chandra, MD, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility said, “We are delighted to partner with HSBC India as we work towards accelerating the mass adoption of sustainable mobility in the country. With over 85,000 EVs on road, Tata Motors is the leader in this fast-growing segment. Our new age vehicles offer customers with the choice to select the EV that best meets their purpose. This partnering with HSBC India will further expand the appeal and reach of customers preferring to Go.ev”

Commenting on this new offering, Hitendra Dave, CEO, HSBC India said, “The road transportation sector in India is a significant contributor to the overall quantum of carbon emissions in the country. It is therefore, imperative that we move quickly and support the mass adoption of electric vehicles. For this to happen, all the stakeholders in the ecosystem need to come together as a unifying force and support this transition. Our partnership with Tata Motors, India’s leading EV maker, will help leverage the synergies of vision and help drive a sustainable transition towards a net zero economy.”

Tata Motors has been revolutionizing the Indian automotive market with its pioneering efforts and is leading the e-mobility wave in India. The product portfolio currently consists of the ‘Fastest Booked EV in India’ – the Tiago.ev, which also recently became the fastest EV to reach 10k deliveries, the Nexon EV – India’s highest selling EV and the Tigor EV.

For more detailed information on the products, please visit: https://ev.tatamotors.com

For more details on this product from HSBC, please visit: https://www.hsbc.co.in/loans/products/personal/

HCL Foundation extends partnership with National Mission for Clean Ganga and INTACH to boost native biodiversity in Uttarakhand

NOIDA, India, June 10, 2023: HCL Foundation (HCLF), which delivers the corporate social responsibility (CSR) agenda of leading global technology company HCLTech, has renewed its partnership with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) for another three years to boost native biodiversity in the eco-sensitive regions of Uttarakhand.

Over the past five years, HCL Foundation and its partner INTACH planted over 13,550 saplings, including 11,300 Rudraksha saplings and 2,250 saplings of other associated native species, in 30 acres of community-owned land near Sentuna village, in Gangolgaon region of Gopeshwar, Chamoli district, and Aati village in Almora district. As part of the initiative, around 200 local communities (including NSS volunteers, members of Mahila mangal dal, farmers, school children and others) have participated in awareness campaigns and plantation and maintenance efforts.

The plantation has improved native biodiversity in the region with birds, animals and other species finding habitat in the planted areas. Many mammals (Barking deer, Blue sheep), birds (Laughing thrush, Grey treepie, Blue-capped Rock thrush), butterflies (Common sailor and Common banded peacock) and spiders (Giant wood spider) are routinely recorded by local communities and field teams.

The extended partnership aims to double down on the positive impact this unique initiative has been able to make in restoring native biodiversity and habitat in Uttarakhand. HCL Foundation aims to plant an additional 10,000 Rudraksha saplings and other native species in the region by 2026. It will also organize community awareness programs to restore degraded habitats and conserve native biodiversity.

“HCL Foundation’s successful drive against habitat degradation and native biodiversity loss in the region and its concerted efforts along with its NGO partner are helping support the fragile ecosystem in the Himalayan forests. The renewal of the MoU will contribute to India’s nationally determined climate change targets while preserving the natural ecology for future generations,” said G Asok Kumar, Director General, NMCG, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Govt. of India.

Dr. Nidhi Pundhir, Vice President, Global CSR, HCL Foundation, emphasized the need for cohesive action towards restoring degraded habitat with native biodiversity and applauded the government’s efforts in this regard. “At HCL Foundation, we have always taken a holistic approach to promote the restoration of natural ecosystems. We always work to support a strong and thriving ecosystem while honoring the rich cultural and religious heritage connected to it by promoting the plantation of native species in the Ganga catchment area. This renewed MoU will play a critical role in engaging local stakeholders in community-based habitat restoration,” she said.

The tripartite MoU was signed by G Asok Kumar, Director General, NMCG, Ministry of Jal Shakti; Dr. Nidhi Pundhir, Vice President, Global CSR, HCL Foundation and Manu Bhatnagar, Principal Director, Natural Heritage Division, INTACH in the presence of other esteemed dignitaries in New Delhi.