Author: Rabindra

New Block Resource Centre in Bankura Inaugurated by Sightsavers India and Alcon India to Support Children with Visual Impairment

Bankura, West Bengal, 10th December 2024 –Alcon, the global leader in eye care, in association with Sightsavers India, has helped visually impaired children in the Bankura district of West Bengal. This association between Sightsavers and Alcon India is part of the ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities..

As part of the Inclusive Education Programme of Sightsavers India, the Block Resource Centre (BRC), a government space where children with special needs come to study, was renovated. The BRC is accessible to maximise participation, and Bankura was selected as it has the highest population of 543 children with visual impairment, making it a crucial area of focus. Representatives from Alcon, Shourav Das Senior Manager, Practice Development, and Sightsavers India, Sayanti Bit, Manager, Corporate Partnerships, and Sampa Paul, State Programme Lead, West Bengal, were present during the event.

The BRC is often established to provide support, materials, and expertise to meet the diverse needs of students, including those with disabilities or special educational needs. The BRC will also serve as a central hub for engagement and capacity building, playing a key role in sensitizing government officials, teachers, and other stakeholders to the importance of inclusive education and the effective use of assistive technology. This comprehensive approach ensures that visually impaired students receive the support they need to thrive in their educational pursuits.

Under this initiative, assistive devices such as low-vision tools, mobiles, and laptops are provisioned free of cost to 60 children with visual impairments thus, ensuring they have the necessary tools to succeed in their educational journey. The children, aged 3-18 years old, were selected from low vision screening camps, which Sightsavers India jointly conducted with the government, and were enrolled in government schools, graded according to the government examination system.

These devices are crucial in bridging the gap between children with visual impairment and their peers, allowing them to access learning materials more effectively and independently. Along with catering to the needs of the visually impaired, there will be separate training provided to the teachers, staff members, and family members on how best to support the children’s special needs. All devices and training are provided free of cost. At times, other materials like games and activity-based learning materials are also handed out.

Amar Vyas, Country Head of Alcon India, added, “We at Alcon are honoured to be a part of this initiative, which aligns with our commitment to help people see brilliantly. By providing these assistive devices and supporting the Block Resource Centre, we are happy to help the children with visual impairments in Bankura have access to the education they deserve. It’s a privilege to work alongside Sightsavers India to advance such an important cause, and we look forward to seeing the lasting benefits this collaboration will bring.”

RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, on the occasion, said, “The inauguration of the Block Resource Centre and the provision of assistive devices in Bankura represent a critical step forward in our mission to make education accessible to all. By providing children with visual impairment with the necessary tools we are enabling inclusion of the students in mainstream education, stand on equal footing with their peers and achieve their full potential. Our collaboration with Alcon demonstrates the impact that strong partnerships can have in driving meaningful change.”

Quest Global and Drees & Sommer Form Strategic Partnership to Launch Innovation Hub in Bangalore

Bangalore, December 10th, 2024 – Quest Global, a leading global product engineering services company, today announced a strategic partnership with Drees & Sommer, a leading European consulting, planning, and project management enterprise, marking the latter’s foray into the Engineering, Procurement, Construction Management (EPCM) industry. This partnership will build a High Value Center of Performance and Innovation (HVCPI) in Bangalore. This collaboration will build competitiveness, scale, and capability, ensuring a seamless blend of expertise and capacity enhancement in line with Drees & Sommer’s 2030 Strategy.

This partnership signifies a major milestone for Quest Global as it ventures into the EPCM industry segment. As part of this collaboration, Quest Global will leverage its engineering expertise to establish a local-global team within the HVCPI to support Drees & Sommer to swiftly build sustainable competence and capacity, further solidifying their position in the EPCM and EPC industries.

“We are excited to collaborate with Drees & Sommer to build a High Value Center of Performance and Innovation, delivering innovative and high-quality engineering solutions. This partnership combines Drees & Sommer’s unparalleled expertise with our deep-rooted engineering capabilities, delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to our clients. By leveraging our combined strengths, we aim to redefine industry standards, offering unparalleled value and efficiency to our clients across various sectors,” said Ajay Prabhu, President -Technology Services, Quest Global.

Commenting on the partnership, Veit Thurm, Partner and Managing Director, Drees & Sommer said, “We are thrilled to partner with Quest Global and establish our presence in India. This partnership is crucial for our growth strategy and will enable us to enhance our service offerings and market competitiveness and will provide the flexibility and resilience required for continued success.”

The HVCPI is strategically designed to serve as a hub for innovation and excellence, driving advancements in key areas such as Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Civil, Structural, and Architecture services. The partnership will cater to specific sectors within the EPCM industry, including Hitech & Production Industries such as Semiconductor, Battery, Pharma & Lifesciences, Chemical, and Automotive.

Siemens Experience Centre by BSH Home Appliances Now Open in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, December 2024: BSH Home Appliances, a subsidiary of BSH Hausgeräte GmbH, a global leader in the home appliance industry has unveiled the Siemens Experience Centre in Bengaluru. This state-of-the-art facility sets a new benchmark for customer engagement, offering a deeply immersive and personalized journey into Siemens’ innovative, premium appliances.

The Siemens Experience Centre is designed to revolutionize how customers interact with home appliances. Personalized one-on-one consultations with in-house chefs and experts ensure that every visitor receives tailored guidance, from choosing the right products to understanding their features and receiving post-purchase support. This commitment to personalization underscores Siemens’ focus on making premium living accessible and deeply connected to individual needs. A standout feature is the Life Arena, a live kitchen where customers can engage with Siemens’ appliances firsthand. From exclusive masterclasses to live cooking demonstrations, visitors witness the unmatched possibilities of Siemens’ technology, turning everyday tasks into extraordinary experiences. For those designing dream kitchens, architects and designers collaborate to craft bespoke spaces that integrate Siemens’ appliances seamlessly into homes.

The Centre showcases Siemens’ range of connected appliances that integrate effortlessly into smart homes. From coffee machines with Home Connect app compatibility to dishwashers and washing machines offering unparalleled convenience, Siemens’ appliances are engineered to simplify life while delivering sophistication and performance. The dedicated studioLine section highlights exclusive, luxury options for discerning customers, accompanied by vibrant storytelling displays that bring every product’s innovation to life. Customers also get to experience the revolutionary iQ700 range of built-in ovens, a game-changer in the world of cooking. With an industry-first integrated camera powered by AI, the iQ700 oven allows users to select their preferred browning levels, tailoring results to individual tastes and preferences.

Bengaluru, renowned for its rapidly growing premium kitchen segment, is cementing its position as a hub for luxury living and innovation. Contributing an impressive 15% to the All India Siemens Built-in business, the city is a hotspot for globally acclaimed modular kitchen brands like Valcucine, Leicht Kitchens, SieMatic, and Poliform Kitchens. This thriving ecosystem of premium kitchen design aligns seamlessly with the city’s booming luxury market.

According to the Henley & Partners’ Centi-Millionaire Report 2024, Bengaluru is set to witness a staggering 150% rise in its centi-millionaire population, further driving demand for ultra-premium lifestyle experiences.

Saif Khan, MD & CEO of BSH Home Appliances India, expressed his excitement about the expansion in Bengaluru, stating, “We are excited to announce the opening of the Siemens Experience Centre in Bengaluru, a city that thrives on innovation and smart technology. This market reflects the aspirations of modern Indian consumers who value IoT-enabled appliances, energy efficiency, and premium living. Bengaluru is a key market for us, playing a crucial role in our growth in premium appliances segment. We are proud to create a space where customers can engage deeply with our innovative appliances, discover personalized solutions, and elevate their home living experience to new heights. The Siemens Experience Centre is more than just a retail destination—it’s a hub of inspiration, collaboration, and innovation that underscores BSH’s commitment to consumer-centricity and premium living.”

Consumers can explore the range of Siemens appliances and experience the offerings firsthand by visiting the Experience Centre at No – 8, GF, 15th Cross, 6th phase, JP Nagar, Bengaluru – 560078.

The company now operates multiple experience centres across major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bengaluru as part of its commitment to providing unparalleled access to its luxury appliance portfolio across the country.

Gillco International School Hosts Career Fair, Connecting Students to Future Opportunities

Gillco International School recently organized a highly successful Career Fair for students of Classes IX to XII. The event, held on 07.12.24, aimed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of various career options and educational pathways available to them.

With over 35 prominent international and national universities participating, the Career Fair served as a vibrant platform for students to explore a wide range of academic opportunities. Prestigious universities from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, as well as top institutions from India, were present to interact with students and share valuable insights into their programs, admission procedures, and career prospects.

Throughout the day, students and parents had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one discussions with university representatives, attend informational sessions, and explore various career fields, from engineering and medicine to arts, business, and technology. The event also featured workshops on college admissions, scholarship opportunities, and personal statement writing, equipping students with the necessary tools to make informed decisions about their future.

The Career Fair was an immense success, providing students with invaluable exposure to global academic institutions and helping them take the next step toward shaping their careers. The event was a clear testament to Gillco International School’s commitment to nurturing the academic and professional growth of its students.

Indulge in the Best Sunday Brunch at The Lodhi, New Delhi

New Delhi,10 December 2024 – This winter season, The Lodhi has transformed into an exquisite sanctuary where luxury and indulgence reigned supreme. Starting from November, guests are invited to indulge in a Sunday Brunch like no other, set amidst the breathtaking beauty of The Lodhi’s magnificent lawns. The launch of the Brunch took place on 17th November, an exclusive event that drew an impressive crowd of influencers, media houses, and high-net-worth individuals (HNIs). Guests were welcomed by a glass of bubbly leading to The lawns, where personalized service and dramatic ambiance turned the brunch into a truly immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 Every Sunday, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, the brunch features a lavish buffet, offering a curated selection of global flavors, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and effervescent sparkling wines and champagne, continuing through March 2025. Guests are captivated by live cooking stations where The Lodhi’s skilled chefs prepare fresh, delectable dishes right before their eyes, creating an interactive and unforgettable culinary experience amidst the serene beauty of lawns. Adding to the atmosphere, a live music band set the tone for the occasion, infusing the space with lively tunes and vibrant energy. This dynamic entertainment, paired with impeccable service and the stunning surroundings, created a truly interactive and unforgettable experience.

 Adding to the festive cheer, The Lodhi hosted a special Christmas Cake Mixing Brunch on 24th November 2024, marking the beginning of the holiday season. Guests participated in a lively cake-mixing ceremony, crafting their own holiday cakes in a joyous celebration of tradition.

 Immerse yourself in this enchanting blend of gourmet cuisine, sparkling beverages, live entertainment, and breathtaking surroundings.

Tamra at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi Presents Lucknowi Dawat with home chef Mansi

(New Delhi, November 2024) – Shangri-La Eros New Delhi welcomes gourmets to discover the regal flavours of Lucknow’s legendary Awadhi cuisine, thoughtfully reimagined by Guest Chef Mansi. Delight in centuries-old recipes and time-honored traditions at Tamra, the hotel’s international cuisine restaurant, from November 28th to 30th, 2024.

 Chef Mansi, a culinary expert from Lucknow’s UP Khatri community, brings her deep knowledge of traditional Awadhi cuisine to this exclusive pop-up. Inspired by the women of her family, she honors her community’s vegetarian roots while embracing the diverse flavors of North Indian gastronomy. Her cooking philosophy centers on slow cooking and seasonal ingredients, whether preparing a Zaffrani Biryani or a Soulful Dal preparation. Through her Awadhi table experiences, Chef Mansi has gained recognition for her dedication to authentic recipes and traditional techniques.

 The signature collection includes Shammi Kabab, these soft, robustly flavored mince patties are filled with spicy surprises, offering a bold beginning to your feast. For a touch of traditional comfort, enjoy Khasta and Aaloo – crisp fried spicy kachoris paired with tangy potatoes in tomato gravy.

 The main course unfolds with the luxurious Zaffrani Biryani, an Awadhi-style delicacy delicately infused with the rich aroma of saffron. Tender, succulent meat is nestled in fragrant, spiced rice and slow-cooked to perfection using the traditional dum method. For a hearty winter treat, savor Nihari, a slow-braised stew cooked overnight with aromatic herbs and spices. The vegetarian options are equally enticing, with Lauki Musallam – a whole gourd stuffed with khoya and nuts in a lightly spiced gravy – and Nimona, a homely dish of fresh peas, spring onions, and mungori cooked to a delectable spicy flavour.

 End your meal on a sweet note with Phirni, a rich, saffron-flavored rice pudding garnished with dry fruits and silver warq, served in traditional earthenware bowls.

 Experience the magic of generations-old Awadhi recipes as Chef Mansi brings her family’s culinary legacy to Tamra. This limited-time pop-up promises an intimate evening of traditional flavors and heartwarming hospitality, straight from the kitchens of Lucknow.

India Leads the Global Employment Outlook: Strong Hiring Sentiments Mark Q1 2025

INDIA (December 10, 2024) –Employers in India foresee a robust employment outlook in Q1 2025, according to the latest ManpowerGroup (NYSE: MAN) Employment Outlook Survey.

The survey, which gathered data from more than 3,000 employers across various regions of India, reveals that 53% of employers plan to hire, while 13% anticipate a decrease in their staffing levels in the Q1 2025. Meanwhile, 31% do not expect any change. The Net Employment Outlook (NEO) after seasonal adjustment is +40%, strengthening by 3 percentage points from both last quarter and year over year.

Used internationally as a bellwether of labor market trends, the NEO is calculated by subtracting the percentage of employers who anticipate reductions in staffing levels from those who plan to hire.

“India remains one of the world’s fastest growing large economies, with its position as the global leader in employment outlook for Q1 2025 highlighting the confidence of employers in the country’s economic trajectory,” said Sandeep Gulati, Managing Director, ManpowerGroup India and Middle East. “Significant investments in artificial intelligence (AI), along with public funding has benefitted the IT sector’s employment market, resulting in the sector leading with an Outlook of 50%. With strong contributions from Financials and Real Estate, and year-on-year growth across all regions, India’s job market continues to reflect resilience and adaptability amid an uncertain global landscape. Larger organizations are driving this momentum, signaling sustained opportunities for talent across the country.”

Mr. Gulati further stated, “Investment from MNC’s looking to reduce their operation costs appears to be benefitting India, and the outlook for 2025 looks more positive. Economic growth is likely to pick up with increasing consumer spending as inflation potentially subsides, and agricultural output is likely to improve after favorable monsoon conditions. In this mixed environment, India’s employment expectations are expected to grow slightly.”

KEY FINDINGS FROM THE Q4 SURVEY

· Employers in IT (+50%), Consumer Goods & services (+40%), Energy & Utilities (+38%), Health Care & Life Sciences (+38%), Transport and Logistics & Automotive (+36%) and Communication Services (+30%) have shown a growth, when compared to Q4 2024. Industrials and Materials sees a slight decrease, reporting a NEO of (+35%). The Financial and Real Estate Industry, while having the second-highest outlook (+44%) is down by 3% compared to the previous quarter.

· The strongest outlook among the regions comes from West India (+43%) increasing by 4% from the previous quarter, closely followed by East India (+41%) which saw a considerable rise of 11% during the same period.