Author: Rabindra

World Development Corporation Hosts Ambassadors’ Summit 2024 to Enhance Global Corporate Governance and ESG Collaboration

New Delhi, 18th September 2024 –World Development Corporation recently hosted the Ambassador’s Summit 2024 at the Jaypee Vasant Continental Hotel in collaboration with World Association For Small & Medium Enterprises (WASME), a United Nation’s Observer and Consultant, recently in Delhi. It was attended by a huge number of senior ambassadors and diplomats from around the world. They had gathered to discuss issues critical to corporate governance, ESG strategy, and its relationship to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The event was themed around the mission of the corporation-which is to catalyse global progress in innovative ways that ensure sustainable business models, fostering SME development. WDC with its division Directors’ Institute-World Council Of Directors, shall be benefitting the economies through International Corporate Directorship Program and Doctorate in International Corporate Directorship.

The event may be an indicator of the fact that WDC has committed efforts in pushing international collaboration for ways to achieve sustainable economic growth. To achieve success, the Directors’ Institute-Databank, a pool of 15000+ trained and experienced rich certified professionals will be supporting these initiatives by forming Corporate Governance Framework Committees for various geographies and to form global boards.

On the occasions, Zeeshan Pathan, MD of World Development Corporation, said, “WDC, as a leader in showing the way forward in development across industries, is key to leading the growth of SMEs around the world. We addressed over 20 senior ambassadors at the event and through the Ambassador Summit project, learning from each other was underscored in important areas such as corporate governance, mainstreaming ESG issues into the business framework, and strategic partner engagement. This year’s summit was another example of the evolving approach that WDC has been taking in fostering inclusive economic growth and sustainable development through SMEs.”

Key Diplomats in Attendance:

• H.E. Mrs. Accouche, High Commissioner, Seychelles High Commission
• H.E. Mr. Lumumba Maklele Nyajok, Ambassador, Embassy of South Sudan
• H.E. Mrs. Dillah Lucienne, Ambassador, Embassy of Chad
• H.E. Brig. General Aloys Bizindavyi, Ambassador, Embassy of Burundi
• H.E. Mr. Haymandoyal Dillum, High Commissioner, High Commission of Mauritius
• Dr. Ferenc Toth, Charge d’Affaires a.i., Embassy of Hungary
• Mr. Peter Hobwani, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Zimbabwe
• Ms. Anabella Chavez, Second Secretary, Embassy of Panama

Among the numerous conversations, the summit focused on several key areas to foster sustainable financial models in the business world. One of them was excellence in corporate governance. Deepening the framework of governance to empower SMEs toward transparency and long-term sustainability, the corporation advocated for mandating comprehensive reporting for both public and private companies. Additionally, it was suggested to include an ESG strategy, which is a manner by which sustainable development, either social or environmental, can be integrated into business operations without jeopardising profitability.

UN SDGs Work was also an important key area. It explained how the SMEs lie at the heart of delivering Goal 8—Good Jobs and Economic Growth, Goal 9, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and Goal 12—Responsible Use of Resources.

Heval Mehta, MD of WDC Leadership School | Directors’ Institute – World Council of Directors, WDC, commented “WDC, with strategic initiatives for the SME sector, redefined the meaning of success to include sustainability and inclusion today. At the event, we bear testimony that WDC has stood at the forefront, leading countries and industries toward unity in presenting new solutions to two of the world’s economic challenges: building resilient supply chains and championing sustainable investments.”

Ayub Sheikh, MD – FinTech & Innovation & COO at WDC, shared further insights, “Going forward, WDC would continue to lead the process for capacity building and policy dialogues that would eventually equip SMEs with mechanisms and strategies necessary to compete in a fast-changing global marketplace. We will be taking innovative measures to implement our Corporate Governing Framework and build resilient systems for the greater good of the society.”

In summary, WDC reaffirmed its commitment to continuing work on international cooperation in SME development by establishing a platform that demonstrates governance excellence and ESG integration. It further noticed that cross-border partnerships are developed, and sustainable business models have to be put in place which develop SMEs into productive and contributing members within the global economy.

Rado Unveils Captain Cook Skeleton & Centrix Open Heart for Timeless Moments

India, 18th Sep 2024-The most cherished occasions call for something unforgettable. From Rado, the pioneering Swiss watchmaker renowned as the Master of Materials, come two exquisite timepieces ideal for gift-giving, presented by the enchanting pairing of Bollywood superstars Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif.

Rekindling their celebrated on-screen chemistry from a decade ago, the idols once again radiate the effortless style, enduring charm and magnetic allure that have helped make them such a captivating presence and exciting cultural phenomenon. Those magical qualities now align perfectly with the Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton and Rado Centrix Open Heart Super Jubilé – watches that ooze contemporary style, innovation and luxury. It almost goes without saying that both pieces also represent the iconic design heritage, materials expertise and creative ambition of Rado.

Roshan and Kaif – both Rado brand ambassadors – lend their incredible star quality to showcase the two watches in a campaign that channels the evocative meaning conveyed by gifts of true craftsmanship. The acclaimed performers tell a compelling story of the art of giving, where thoughtful consideration combines with unrivalled sophistication – an approach guaranteed to lift the heart of any gift recipient.

For those with a thirst for adventure…

Roshan unveils the Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton, presented for the first time in a matt black monobloc case with rose-gold embellishments. Through its black-tinted box-shaped sapphire crystal and beyond its bold hands and indexes – all brushed rose-gold-coloured, with black Super-Luminova® – its Rado calibre R808 automatic movement can be glimpsed, featuring a rose-gold-coloured centre wheel bridge.

Set on a high-tech ceramic bracelet, it makes an unmistakeably powerful statement. Its intriguing harmony of luxury and soulful sophistication with the robustness of a sports watch makes it the perfect gift for someone with an unquenchable thirst for life and an eye for the details. They’ll discover a movement with Côtes de Genève decoration, an antimagnetic Nivachron™ hairspring and an 80-hour power reserve, contained in a case that is water-resistant to 30 bar (300 metres). Of course, the skeletonised movement can also be seen through the transparent sapphire case back.

Roshan said: “The Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton is a dynamic fusion of watchmaking heritage, innovative materials and modern design, ready to remind the wearer of their proudest achievements and accompany them on adventures to come.”

…and to mark those moments of pure emotion

And Kaif, known for her grace and style, personally exemplifies the Rado Centrix Open Heart Jubilé. Its rose-gold-coloured case and dark brown mother-of-pearl dial – featuring 12 diamond indexes – beautifully frame a view of the Rado calibre R734 automatic movement. This careful composition celebrates two worlds: elegance on the surface meets complexity beneath. When given as a gift, it becomes a metaphor for life and the precious moments that define it, whether telling a story of celebration or following the path of true love.

Elements like the unique organic contrasts within the dial, the circular grain decoration on the movement and the high-tech ceramic links within the rose-gold-coloured bracelet lend additional layers of finesse that will reflect the richness of each recipient’s journey.

Kaif said: “The Rado Centrix Open Heart Jubilé is not just the epitome of luxury, elegance and style but a work of art, making it the ideal gift for joyful moments you want to treasure forever.”

Adrian Bosshard, CEO of Rado, added: “At Rado, we believe in creating timepieces that are more than accessories–they are symbols of life’s most profound moments. Being able to work with two such stellar talents as Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif is a privilege that beautifully demonstrates how the Rado Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Skeleton and Rado Centrix Open Heart Jubilé resonate with our most emotional occasions.”

Summercool Group Organises Golden Parivar Meet in Goa

18th Sep 2024; Summercool and Thermocool successfully hosted the annual Golden Parivar meet in Goa from 12th September to 15th September. The event was highlighted by the presence of Bollywood star Chunky Pandey, who graced the event as the Chief Guest on 13th September. Also the Instagram Sensation Desi Nigerian Boy Agu Stanley, some top Influencers, and industry best artist added a dash of excitement and charm to the gathering, which brought the key partners, retailers and distributors of Summercool and Thermocool together in the grand annual celebration.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Goa’s renowned beaches, the event offered participants a unique blend of business updates and leisure activities. The four-day event featured insightful sessions on achievements, growth strategies, and future innovations, culminating in a gala dinner, sightseeing, and an exhilarating casino night and was attended by more than 100 invitees. The celebration was a perfect blend of professional engagement and leisure, allowing participants to experience Goa’s rich cultural heritage alongside the thriving camaraderie within the Summer Cool family.

Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CMD of Summercool Group said, “Having Mr. Chunky Pandey as our Chief Guest made this year’s “Golden Parivar Meet” an unforgettable experience. His participation brought an air of excitement, and his gracious interaction with our collaborators and national distributors was a highlight of the event. We are immensely grateful to our extended Summercool Group family for their continued support, and this meeting reaffirmed our commitment to building stronger, more meaningful relationships as we move forward”

The event not only served as a celebration of the company’s achievements but also provided a platform for boosting collaboration and exploring new business opportunities. The brand reaffirmed its commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality cooling solutions, with plans for continued expansion and technological advancements. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation, ready to take on new challenges and contribute to the company’s future success.

iBUS Network Secures INR 280 Crores from IFC to Boost Global Expansion and Market Position

New Delhi, September 18, 2024: iBUS Network and Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, a leading digital infrastructure solutions provider, today announced that it has secured an investment of INR 280 crore (US$34 million) from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group for a minority stake in the company. This strategic partnership is set to further bolster iBUS’s plans for both domestic and international growth, enhancing its ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions for in-building connectivity, outdoor small cells (a radio access point), managed Wi-Fi services and intelligent Internet of Things (IoT).

“We are excited to welcome IFC as a key partner in our journey toward global expansion and innovation,” said Mr. Subash Vasudevan, Chief Business Officer, iBUS Network. “IFC’s investment aligns with our vision to transform the digital infrastructure landscape. With their unparalleled expertise and global reach, IFC will play a pivotal role in helping us scale our operations, enter new markets, and deliver world-class digital solutions. This partnership marks a significant milestone for iBUS, as we aim to accelerate our growth, improve our technological capabilities and continue to strengthen our position as a leader in the industry. We look forward to contributing to the digital transformation of economies worldwide.”

This is IFC’s first investment in Infratech in the Asia-Pacific region and aligns with the organization’s broader strategic focus on improving access to high-quality digital connectivity and supporting India’s digital transformation.

“Boosting reliable digital connectivity is critical to bridging the digital divide. IFC’s investment in iBUS Network reflects our strong commitment to supporting India’s vision of a digital inclusive economy,” said Wendy Werner, IFC India Country Head. “Through this partnership, we aim to strengthen last-mile connectivity and elevate the quality of digital infrastructure for both individuals and businesses in the country. By scaling innovative technologies and boosting market competitiveness, we will create new growth opportunities for businesses and job creation in the telecom sector.”

Under the partnership iBUS Network will also leverage IFC’s gender advisory to increase representation of women across all organizational tiers. The investment also marks a significant milestone for iBUS as it continues to scale operations and extend its market presence beyond India and across emerging sectors, including IoT and other advanced digital infrastructure solutions.

“We are delighted to welcome IFC as a partner alongside National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) in iBUS Network,” said Mr.Vinod Giri, Managing Partner – Master Fund at NIIF. “IFC’s investment is not only a testament to iBUS’s robust growth trajectory and strong fundamentals, but also underscores the critical role that digital infrastructure will play in India’s growth story. At NIIF, we are committed to backing companies like iBUS that are reshaping India’s digital landscape and driving sustainable growth. We look forward to partnering with IFC to further accelerate iBUS’s mission to digitise India with innovative solutions like In-building connectivity and managed Wi-Fi services.”

This investment follows a series of major developments for iBUS, including the recent US $200 million funding from the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) and plans for three significant acquisitions this year. These moves underline iBUS’s commitment to leading the digital infrastructure revolution in India and beyond.

Steel Meets Soul, Vikash Kalra’s URBAN THOUGHTS Unveils Revolutionary Sculptures

New Delhi, 18th September 2024; The journey of an artist is to evolve and do what he love to do with creative freedom to create the indestructible and invincible. Keeping the thought in site, Dhoomimal Gallery has presented a 42 day exhibition featuring a series of Installation of Modern and Contemporary Sculptures in Steel. Titled, URBAN THOUGHTS, the exhibition by Vikash Kalra, marks a historic moment in Indian art. For the first time ever, large-scale steel sculptures are on display in India, positioning artist Vikash Kalra, as the fourth artist worldwide to push the boundaries of steel in modern and contemporary art.

The exhibition, curated by Virendra Shekhawat, founder of the Delhi Photography Club, is showcasing a stunning series of eight steel sculptures, ranging from 55 to 120 inches in height. These sculptures are titled Maa, Obverse, Confidence, Grace, Leader, King, Queen, and Ambition, each explore different facets of human experience and emotion.

Maa symbolizes the divine feminine, motherhood, and the nurturing aspects of life, while Obverse reflects the front face of reality, focusing on the dynamics between men and women in relationships. Confidence embodies trust and strong belief in oneself, and Grace represents elegance, poise, and effortless beauty in movement and expression. Leader signifies authority and the legitimacy required for effective leadership, whereas King depicts a male monarch traditionally ruling over a kingdom. Queen draws inspiration from historic figures such as Cleopatra of Egypt and Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, and Ambition reflects a strong desire and determination to achieve something significant, envisioning a better world. These sculptures are a testament to Kalra’s innovative use of steel as a medium for artistic expression.

“Steel offered me a versatile and powerful medium to mould my art,” says Vikash Kalra. “My tribute to steel is a reflection of my journey to create something indestructible and invincible. URBAN THOUGHTS delves into the emotional landscape of modern city life, capturing the inner conflicts and dualities of urban existence, says Vikash Kalra.”

Curator Virendra Shekhawat comments, “Kalra’s work is a profound exploration of the tension between the self and society in urban settings. His use of steel juxtaposes rigidity with organic forms, embodying the dualities of strength and vulnerability. This exhibition is not just about art; it’s about engaging with the emotional impact of urbanization on our psyche.”

Renowned art critic Georgina Maddox adds, “Kalra’s sculptures are a fusion of industrial and aesthetic forms, capturing the essence of modern human experience. His large-scale, angular stainless steel sculptures resonate with raw energy and profound emotion, reflecting on our urban existence with a language that is both contemporary and deeply humane.”

Don’t miss this chance to experience Vikash Kalra’s revolutionary steel sculptures and engage in a deep exploration of urban life and its emotional undercurrents. The exhibition, URBAN THOUGHTS will be on view until October 12, 2024, at the Centre Atrium, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi daily from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Hexnode appoints Dillip Kumar Routray as Global Segment Director of Telco and Tech Partnerships

18th September 2024 – Hexnode, the enterprise software division of Mitsogo Inc., appointed Dillip Kumar Routray as the Global Segment Director of Telco and Technology Partnerships. As a recognized global technology sales leader in the ICT industry, Dillip will oversee building strategic tech partnerships and driving the global expansion of Hexnode in the Telecom sector.

“This is an exciting time for Hexnode, and I’m delighted to join as Global Segment Director of Telecom and Tech Partnerships at this critical juncture,” said Dillip Kumar. “As the digital landscape evolves, device security continues to be a top priority for leaders across every industry. I look forward to making a meaningful impact and helping more organizations become cyber resilient with Hexnode,” he commented.

Arriving with over 25 years of experience, Dillip has a successful history of driving businesses in the Telecom, Cloud, PaaS, SaaS and Media industries. Prior to joining Hexnode, Dillip held prominent positions at Huawei Technologies, Bharti Airtel Ltd. and Motorola. During his tenure at Huawei, Dillip successfully expanded operations across various regions, contributing to a revenue generation exceeding $800 million. He brings a deep understanding of customer needs and a global perspective to his new role at Hexnode.

 Hexnode, a leader in unified endpoint management (UEM), provides comprehensive mobility management software that enables businesses to manage endpoints from a centralized console. The product supports all major platforms, including Android, Windows, iOS, macOS, Fire OS, and tvOS.

“Dillip’s extensive experience in the telecom and tech industries, combined with his sharp strategic vision, perfectly aligns with Hexnode’s long-term goals. We are confident that his leadership will drive our growth and ensure sustained success, and we’re thrilled to have him on board,” said Rachana Vijayan, CMO & Director of Sales and Partnership of Hexnode.

 With a strong track record of building solid relationships with telecom, tech ecosystem partners, Managed Service Providers (MSP), system integrators, and resellers, Dillip aims to expand Hexnode’s market position and accelerate growth on a global scale. In his new role, Dillip will be responsible for driving revenue growth, cultivating strategic partnerships, and strengthening Hexnode’s presence across the telecom industry worldwide.

Commenting on Dillip’s appointment, Vikas Bakshi, Senior VP of Global Strategic Alliances of Hexnode, said, “We’re excited to have Dillip Routray join the Hexnode team. Dillip’s remarkable success in the Telco and Tech industry and his excellence in deploying new business opportunities and delivering strategies will be instrumental in strengthening our position in the marketplace.”

Young aspiring diplomats debate on global issues and world politics at MUN hosted by Greenwood High

Bangalore, September 18, 2024: In a notable demonstration of teamwork, collaboration and diplomacy, Greenwood High, International Campus, Sarjapur, proudly hosted the highly anticipated GWH Model United Nations (GWH – MUN) recently. With over 560 delegates from 18 schools participating in 12 committees, the event proved to be an exhilarating platform that encouraged academic excellence, inclusivity, and diverse representation, introducing students to new avenues in critical simulations of global events and UN conferences. The event witnessed role-play by students as delegates of different countries attempting to solve real-world issues through policies and perspectives of their assigned portfolio.

The objective of organizing such a conference was to imbibe leadership qualities and diplomatic skills among the student participants, preparing them for future roles in international relations and global problem-solving. The grand opening ceremony saw an inspiring blend of music, culture, and intellectual discourse. Mrs. Sheila Alexander, Principal of the International Campus, delivered an empowering address, emphasizing the importance of nurturing diplomacy and negotiation skills among students. This was followed by an important panel discussion that covered important facets of international relations, foreign policy, and the fundamentals of MUN.

The students took on diplomatic roles in the United Nations Security Council, United Nations Human Rights Council, Disarmament and International Security Committee, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Special Political and Decolonization Committee, Historical Crisis Committee, International Court of Justice, World Bank, International Atomic Energy Agency, Salem Witch Trials, All India Political Parties Meet and International Press Corps. This gave them the chance to hone their public speaking, diplomacy, critical thinking, and negotiation skills. Delegates were deeply involved in recreating global political crises and working towards creative resolutions, which strengthened their adaptability and persuasive communication skills. Each committee witnessed passionate debates and deliberations.

“The passion and commitment displayed by each delegate at GWH MUN 2024 were truly commendable, with many participants tackling complex global issues through diplomacy, critical thinking, and collaboration,” said Ms. Niru Agarwal, Managing Trustee, Greenwood High International School, in appreciation of the participants’ efforts. “Their capacity to interact meaningfully with real-world problems emphasizes how crucial these experiences are in forming the next generation of leaders. The objective is to establish a setting that fosters cognitive development and worldwide consciousness, and these youthful brains have demonstrated their capacity to have a constructive influence on the global arena.”

The concluding event featured a brief cultural presentation, succeeded by a powerful speech delivered by Vice Principal Mr. Nishant Nagavar. In it, he raised awareness among the students about the importance of diplomacy in times of war, citing personal experiences to illustrate the need of fostering relationships through thick and thin. GWH MUN 2024 was enthusiastically welcomed by the attendees. The occasion gave students a platform to share their expertise and foster a collaborative learning atmosphere and gave them a chance to demonstrate their leadership, progressive thinking, and global perspective.

India at the Crossroads: Skilling the Youth for a Competitive Future

Gaurav Bhagat, Founder, Gaurav Bhagat Academy

India, a nation that boasts the world’s largest youth population, stands at a crossroads of immense potential and pressing challenges. Every time I look at the sheer number of young people—over 50% of our population under the age of 25—I see a country brimming with talent and opportunity. But as exciting as this is, there’s an underlying issue we can’t ignore. According to a 2024 study by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), the skill gaps in high-demand sectors like information technology, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and renewable energy are glaring. It’s clear that the need for skill, up-skill, and right-skill programs is more urgent than ever, and it must start in schools.

  The Skill Gap: A Persistent Challenge
Despite India’s impressive strides in education, the reality on the ground is sobering. The skill gap continues to be a major obstacle, especially when it comes to employment and economic growth. The India Skills Report 2024 reveals that only 49% of Indian youth are employable. Just imagine: almost half of our young population is not ready for the workforce. And it doesn’t stop there. When a leading Indian engineering and construction firm advertised for freshers in 2022, they received over 75,000 applications but could extend offer letters to only 1,500 candidates. Even those selected had to go through a year-long induction training program to become job-ready. This training cost the company over ₹100 crore in just a couple of years!

 According to TeamLease, India has over 500 million people in the working-age bracket, but one out of every two individuals is not employable due to the existing skill gap. This mismatch between academic qualifications and industry demands is one of the biggest reasons for the supply and demand imbalance in our job market. As someone who has seen the immense potential of our youth, this gap feels like a missed opportunity for both individuals and the nation.

 NEP 2020: A Step Toward Transformation
Thankfully, initiatives like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 are working to change the narrative. The policy recognizes the critical need for skill development and introduces vocational training from as early as Class 6. This forward-thinking approach ensures that by the time students leave school, they not only have academic knowledge but practical skills, too. In fact, one of the highlights of NEP 2020 is its focus on industry collaboration, ensuring courses are relevant to market demands. I’ve personally seen how this can bridge the gap between what we teach and what the industry needs.

 But it’s not just about hard skills like coding or engineering. NEP emphasizes the importance of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and resilience—skills that are crucial in every field, from healthcare to corporate environments. In my view, this focus on ‘life skills’ is what will set India apart. Soft skills are often the invisible force behind every successful company, shaping how businesses hire, manage teams, and build client relationships.

 Other Initiatives: Skilling from the Ground Up
Let’s be honest: our traditional education system, while good at imparting knowledge, often falls short when it comes to practical skills. We need to shift our focus from grades to real-world skills. Every child has unique interests and talents, but how often do we see these being nurtured in schools? Personally, I’ve witnessed how a lack of early skill development limits young people’s ability to thrive in the real world.

 Schools should be the breeding ground for creativity and practical learning, offering opportunities in sports, arts, science experiments, coding, and music, to name a few. Such activities not only help the active students reach their full potential but also bring out the hidden talents in quieter students. Building a culture of learning from a young age instills lifelong curiosity and equips students with essential skills for the world beyond the classroom.

Tata Motors Expands Presence in Kolkata with OSL Future

Kolkata, 17th September, 2024: Tata Motors proudly announces the grand opening of its new exclusive dealership, OSL Future, in Kolkata. This premier facility, boasting 18,000 sq. ft. of showroom space and 54,000 sq. ft. of workshop area, represents a significant step in Tata Motors’ strategic expansion in the region.

The inauguration ceremony of New Tata passenger Vehicles Dealership at Raikva (Beliaghata Crossing), Kolkata was attended by: Mr. Amit Sinha, Zonal Manager, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd.; Mr. Gumeet Pal Singh, Zonal Customer Care Manager, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd.; Mr. Charchit Mishra, Dealer Principal, OSL Future Pvt Ltd. and many other eminent personalities.\

Speaking to the media, Mr. Amit Sinha, Zonal Manager, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. said, “ We are thrilled to open the OSL Future dealership in Kolkata, a significant milestone in our expansion journey. This state-of-the-art facility not only underscores our commitment to providing exceptional service but also highlights our dedication to innovation in the automotive industry. With the introduction of the CURVV.EV and our focus on delivering unparalleled customer experiences, we are excited to set new benchmarks in excellence and customer satisfaction in this vibrant market.”

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the CURVV.EV, Tata Motors’ latest innovation in electric vehicles. The CURVV.EV showcases the company’s dedication to advancing safety, performance, and cutting-edge technology.

Olam Agri Accelerates AI Journey with RISE with SAP on AWS

India, 17th September 2024 — SAP today announced that Olam Agri, a global leader in the agri-business sector, has selected RISE with SAP on Amazon Web Services (AWS) to power its cloud transformation journey, so that it can better manage its complex supply chain and accelerate its path to an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled future.

Headquartered in Singapore, Olam Agri sources, trades, processes, and distributes essential food and agriculture products globally. It has a strong presence in high-growth emerging markets and its products include grains and oilseeds, feed and protein, rice, cotton, wood, and rubber products amongst others. The company is led by its purpose to transform food and agriculture for a more sustainable and food-secure future.

A key factor driving Olam Agri’s decision to adopt RISE with SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition is the platform’s seamless integration with SAP Business AI. SAP Business AI is built into the SAP applications that power critical business processes and comprises a range of AI innovations that have been developed using extensive industry-specific data and deep process knowledge, all created using responsible AI practices. It includes tools such as SAP’s AI co-pilot Joule, which also runs on AWS infrastructure, and Business Integrity Screening.

Joule makes access to information easier and transactions faster, enabling business users to be more efficient. AI-powered business integrity screening will enable Olam Agri to identify anomalous activity quickly using flexible rule sets and predictive analyses that can help uncover and mitigate business risks.

Initial use cases with AI that Olam Agri has identified for Joule range from predictive maintenance for their critical equipment to improve overall productivity, to quality control of commodities from farm to table, and improving customer service.

Shivram Ramakrishnan, Chief Digital and Information Officer, Olam Agri, said, “Our goal with the implementation of this new technology is to drive greater agility and innovation within our organization and ensure that we are well placed to meet the evolving needs of our customers and all other stakeholders.”

Driving operational excellence and supply chain efficiency

SAP and AWS recently announced an expansion of a strategic collaboration to transform modern cloud enterprise resource planning (ERP) experiences and help enterprises drive new capabilities and efficiencies with generative AI. Olam Agri has chosen to deploy RISE with SAP on AWS to further accelerate its AI adoption and build a more resilient, secure, and sustainable global food supply chain. By moving to a cloud ERP model, Olam Agri expects to streamline its business processes and improve operational efficiency.

Olam Agri manages a complex global supply chain, and its ability to monitor and optimize every link in the chain is crucial. With RISE with SAP’s integrated data platform, Olam Agri is expected to gain operational efficiencies resulting in improved outcomes for its partners.

Additionally, Olam Agri expects to utilize SAP innovations to assist progressing on key business imperatives like sustainability, automating and streamlining business processes to continuously deliver value.

Verena Siow, President and Managing Director, SAP Southeast Asia, said, “Olam Agri’s transition to RISE with SAP marks a pivotal step in its digital transformation journey, enabling the company to accelerate to innovate and improve its operational efficiency and sustainability. By embracing the cloud, Olam Agri is not only future-proofing its processes with the seamless adoption of advanced technologies like AI, but it is also enhancing its ability to support farmers and farming communities, while driving greater sustainability across its global operations.”

A collaborative journey with implementation partner Mindsprint

The decision to move to RISE with SAP resulted from a strong collaboration between Olam Agri, SAP, and Mindsprint – a silver partner in the SAP PartnerEdge program. As the partner managed cloud provider for RISE with SAP in this transformation project, Mindsprint plays a critical role in guiding Olam Agri through the complex migration process and brings its industry expertise to tailor the SAP S/4HANA Cloud solution to fit the unique requirements of the agri-business sector.

Dharmender Kapoor, Chief Executive Officer, Mindsprint, said, “As the implementing partner, Mindsprint collaborates closely with our customers to unleash the utmost potential of their digital investments. Our deep relationship with customers like Olam Agri provides valuable insight into their businesses and industries, enabling us to maximize the impact of their new and existing IT infrastructure to achieve business success. With over 600 SAP experts, we are confident that we can guide Olam Agri through this large transformation and deliver tangible value to our customers.”

A collaborative cloud journey with AWS

Priscilla Chong, Country Manager, Singapore, AWS, said, “AWS are proud to support Olam Agri’s digital transformation journey as their trusted cloud provider, and to deliver on its farm-to-table value proposition with AI-powered technology. Our scalable infrastructure and commitment to innovation will empower Olam Agri to drive efficiency, ensure total quality management of its end-to-end commodities value chain, enhance the customer experience for its farmers, retailers, and distributors, and unlock new opportunities for growth in the agricultural sector.”