Author: Rabindra

FlixBus, Europe’s Largest Intercity Bus Service, Partners with AbhiBus to Expand its Reach in India

Bengaluru, 10th September 2024: AbhiBus (ixigo bus business), India’s leading bus ticketing platform has onboarded FlixBus, Europe’s largest intercity bus service to bring a new standard of bus travel to the country. With FlixBus tickets now available on AbhiBus, users can seamlessly book premium bus journeys across India.

After launching earlier this year on popular routes in North India, FlixBus has recently expanded its services in South India, now connecting major cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. The company’s next phase of growth will extend to cities like Coimbatore, Madurai, Tirupati, and Vijayawada, aiming to capitalize on AbhiBus’s extensive reach in South Indian markets and its technological expertise.

This collaboration is set to elevate the travel experience for Indian passengers, offering high-quality services, modern amenities like spacious seating, and punctual schedules – all at an affordable price. By integrating with AbhiBus, FlixBus ensures that passengers can easily browse routes, compare prices, and book tickets through an enhanced, user-friendly interface.

Rohit Sharma, COO of AbhiBus, shared his thoughts on the strategic partnership: “This partnership reflects the shared ambition of FlixBus and AbhiBus to revolutionize intercity travel in India by providing high-quality, yet affordable bus services. By combining FlixBus’s premium offerings with our intuitive and user-friendly platform, we’re elevating the travel experience for Indian passengers. Moreover, FlixBus’s strong commitment to sustainability makes this collaboration a perfect choice for eco-conscious travellers, offering greener, more environmentally responsible travel options without compromising on comfort or convenience.”

Surya Khurana, Managing Director of FlixBus India, added, “FlixBus is renowned for its modern, comfortable buses and unwavering commitment to encouraging shared travel. We are excited to join forces with AbhiBus, leveraging its strong foothold in South India to expand our reach into new regions. As part of our recent South India expansion, we have launched 6 new routes as inaugural connections in the region connecting 33 cities, further driving our growth. Together, we aim to offer Indian passengers convenient and affordable travel solutions that prioritize both comfort and sustainability.”

Mphasis Brings Quantum Expertise to the UK with London Hub Launch

Mumbai, 10 September 2024

Mphasis, a leading Information Technology (IT) solutions provider specialising in cloud and cognitive services, today announced the opening of its Innovation Hub for Mphasis Europe in London’s iconic Tower 42 building.

This strategic hub signifies Mphasis’ commitment to pioneering Quantum technologies within the UK and globally. The facility will serve as a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for developing cutting-edge Quantum Computing, Quantum Cryptography and Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions. These solutions will address critical industry challenges such as algorithmic underwriting, catastrophic risk modelling, and fraud detection. Mphasis’ expertise will empower businesses in the UK and worldwide to leverage the transformative power of Quantum technologies.

The UK has already established itself as a global leader in quantum technologies. Government’s investment in the field has been doubled to £2.5 billion over the next ten years. Recognising its immense potential, the UK has prioritised quantum technologies alongside other key advancements including AI, engineering biology, semiconductors, and future telecoms.

Mphasis has steadily expanded its UK presence over the past years and aims to double the headcount over the next three years through the London innovation hub which marks the next chapter in this commitment. The centre will be a magnet for top local and international tech talent, fostering collaboration and driving innovation across diverse industries including banking, financial services, and insurance. This strategic move positions Mphasis to leverage the UK’s rich talent pool, address evolving client needs and thrive within a supportive technological ecosystem.

“At Mphasis, we’re constantly pushing the boundaries of technology. Our new London innovation hub is a testimony to our commitment to the UK and its vibrant tech scene. This centre will be a focal point for developing next-generation solutions in AI, Quantum Computing, and beyond. It’s a significant step forward as we work to accelerate digital transformation across Europe,” said Nitin Rakesh, CEO and Managing Director, Mphasis.

Janet Coyle CBE, Managing Director Business, Grow London, London & Partners, who attended the inauguration event said, “The UK is an innovation powerhouse and a global magnet for world-leading businesses and talent. The launch of Mphasis’ Innovation Centre in London is a testament to this and is an important addition to the thriving tech and business ecosystem in the capital as AI and Quantum continue to push the forefront of technology.”

“The London Innovation Hub is a strategic game-changer for Mphasis in the UK. It allows us to double down on our commitment to the region, fueling growth in cutting-edge areas such as quantum technologies, cryptography, and data solutions. The UK government’s focus on AI, data, and especially quantum computing, as evidenced by the recent spring budget, aligns perfectly with our vision. We’re excited to be a key player in the UK’s ambition to stay ahead of the curve,” said Ashish Devalekar, SVP & Head of Europe, Mphasis.

Speaking at the event, a leading expert in the field, Dr. Siddharth Saxena, Principal Research Associate, Cavendish Laboratory & Director, Cambridge Central Asia Forum said, “Quantum Science has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades, evolving into tangible technological solutions. Quantum Computing has been at the forefront of this revolution, and we are now poised to witness the emergence of broader Quantum functionality, bearing towards a totally revolutionary step-change. As UK Universities and innovation ecosystems continue to produce cutting-edge solutions with unprecedent precision and targeted applications beyond data science, Mphasis’ anchoring here is well-timed and has the potential to deliver transformative value to its customers.”

Situated in London’s iconic Tower 42, a premier A-grade building known for its sustainability efforts, Mphasis’ new office embodies the company’s dedication to ESG principles.

Commonwealth Chess Championships: Shubhi Gupta Dominates with Girls U-16 Gold and Girls U-20 Bronze

Delhi, Sep 10, 2024: Chess prodigy Shubhi Gupta once again underlined her prowess as she clinched the girls U-16 gold and girls U-20 bronze medal in the just concluded Commonwealth Chess Championships 2024 in Kalutara, Sri Lanka.

A Women FIDE Master (WFM) and the reigning U-19 girls’ national champion, Shubhi left a lasting impression with her impeccable performance in the U-16 category, securing seven wins and two draws. With an exceptional score of 8 points out of a possible 9, she outclassed her competition, finishing ahead of India’s Mrittika Mallick (7 points) and Yashvi Jain (6.5 points), who took second and third places respectively.

Not stopping at her U-16 triumph, Shubhi further showcased her competitive spirit in the Open category, competing against seasoned Grandmasters (GMs), International Masters (IMs), and Women Grandmasters (WGMs). Her determined performance, scoring 4.5 points, led to a third-place finish in the U-20 girls’ division, securing her a bronze medal.

Reflecting on her success, Shubhi said:“It was a fantastic experience, playing against some of the top international players. I am happy that I could perform consistently in both U-16 and the Open category. Winning the Commonwealth U-12 title and the World Cadet Championship were important milestones in my journey, and this latest success has boosted my confidence further. I am looking forward to playing many more Open tournaments this year and continuing to improve my game.”

Shubhi’s stellar achievements come with a prize purse of Rs 1,00,000, adding to her growing list of accolades. The young talent from Ghaziabad was first introduced to chess by her father and has consistently delivered outstanding performances on the national and international stages. She previously won the U-12 gold at the Commonwealth Youth Chess Championship and captured the World Cadet Championship title in the same age category two years ago.

“Shubhi’s impressive performance at the Commonwealth Chess Championships 2024 reflects her hard work and talent. At Pravaha Foundation, we focus on providing the right guidance and resources to help young players like Shubhi grow and compete at the highest levels. It’s rewarding to see how our support has contributed to her success in these prestigious tournaments, and we’re confident that she and other young talents will continue to excel,” said Vinoda Kailas Program Director of the Pravaha Foundation

MGD1 eSports LLP and Pravaha Foundation’s 64 Squares program has been at the forefront of grooming young chess talents by providing them with structured training, expert coaching, and exposure to competitive platforms. Shubhi Gupta’s success is the latest in a string of victories for the academy, whose players have consistently shined at national and international events. Recently, several MGD1-trained players earned laurels at the Asian Youth Chess Championships, with multiple podium finishes across various categories. By fostering a culture of excellence and focusing on long-term player development, MGD1 is helping shape the future of Indian chess, nurturing talents that are ready to compete on the global stage.

GST Council Slashes Tax on Cancer Drugs from 12% to 5%

In a significant move aimed at alleviating the financial burden on cancer patients, the GST Council has announced a reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on cancer drugs from 12% to 5%. This decision, made during the Council’s latest meeting, reflects a commitment to making life-saving treatments more affordable and accessible.

 The revised tax rate is expected to bring substantial relief to patients and their families by lowering the cost of essential medications. Cancer treatment often involves high expenses, and the reduction in GST will help reduce the overall financial strain on individuals undergoing therapy. This adjustment aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to address healthcare affordability and improve access to critical medical services.

 Pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers will need to adjust their pricing structures in response to the new tax rate, ensuring that the benefits of the reduced GST are passed on to consumers. The move is anticipated to not only ease the economic burden on patients but also to potentially enhance adherence to treatment protocols by making drugs more financially accessible.

 Overall, the GST Council’s decision marks a significant step towards supporting those battling cancer, underlining the importance of fiscal measures in addressing public health challenges.

 D. S. Negi, CEO, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC)

The GST Council’s decision to reduce the GST on cancer drugs from 12% to 5% is a significant step towards making cancer treatment more affordable and accessible for patients. This follows the recent budget announcement that exempted these drugs from customs duty, marking a positive step forward. The high cost of cancer medications has been a major hurdle for many patients. The move is aligned with our mission to ensure that every patient has access to world-class cancer care without the burden of high costs. It will help reduce the financial burden on cancer patients and their families, especially those undergoing treatment with expensive treatments like Trastuzumab, Pembrolizumab, and Durvalumab.

Sushant Roy, Co-Founder, COO & CBO at Alyve Health, India’s fastest growing health-tech platform

Today, nearly two million cancer cases are reported annually in India, with many patients requiring ongoing medication and treatment. A significant portion of these individuals come from middle-class and lower-income backgrounds, often facing immense financial strain due to the high costs of cancer drugs.

The new government initiative to reduce GST on cancer drugs from 12% to 5% is a commendable step in the right direction. This policy will further ease the financial burden on patients and their families, making life-saving treatments more accessible to those who need them most. This relief not only helps patients but also supports their families, who are equally affected by the emotional and mental toll of cancer care.

Reducing the cost of cancer treatment is not just a financial necessity; it’s a step towards improving the overall mental health and well-being of millions of Indians. Every bit of financial relief can make a world of difference, offering hope and stability in the face of one of life’s toughest battles.

Such measures are crucial in our collective fight against cancer, ensuring that no one is left behind due to financial constraints.

Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel ink MOU with Malaysia Aviation Group

September 10, 2024: Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel announced an exclusive 24-month strategic partnership with Malaysia Aviation Group (Malaysia Airlines). The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Kuala Lumpur by Mr. Abraham Alapatt, President and Group Head, Marketing, Service Quality, Value Added Services and Innovation at Thomas Cook (India) Limited & SOTC Travel and Mr. Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer at Malaysia Aviation Group.

This collaboration aims to tap into the growing interest among Indian consumers for multiple holidays each year by offering a seamless travel experience for the customers of Thomas Cook & SOTC Travel – leading travel brands in India, and also to leverage Malaysia Airlines’ position as the gateway to Asia and beyond. With the airline providing extensive connectivity across India’s metro and regional markets, this partnership aims to significantly boost and enhance the travel experiences for Indian tourists to and via Malaysia to other countries, like Australia, New Zealand and Japan, among others.

The strategic agreement will focus on a multipronged engagement strategy, including joint consumer promotions and marketing communications to enhance visibility and attract visitors from the Indian market. As leading travel service providers, Thomas Cook and SOTC Travel cater to diverse consumer segments across India’s major metros, mini-metros, and emerging Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. In line with the agreement, Thomas Cook and SOTC Travel will offer a range of travel options, including group and customized holidays to Malaysia, Malaysia Airlines airfare-inclusive group and customized packages, and combo holidays that feature Malaysia as a stopover. This allows customers to enjoy the benefits of two holidays in one, with Malaysia being a visa-friendly destination for Indian travellers.

Mr. Abraham Alapatt, President and Group Head, Marketing, Service Quality, Value Added Services and Innovation at Thomas Cook (India) Limited & SOTC Travel said, “Indians are travelling like never before, and Malaysia offers both a compelling destination and a strategic stopover. Its rich cultural tapestry and flavorful cuisine make it particularly appealing to Indian travellers. Additionally, Malaysia Airlines provides a convenient hub for exploring Malaysia, as well as seamless connections to Asia and long-haul destinations like Australia-New Zealand. Through our strategic partnership with the Malaysia Aviation Group, we are excited to create new opportunities for exploration and deliver unforgettable travel experiences for our customers across holidays, B-Leisure, and MICE segments.”

Speaking on the partnership, Mr. Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer at Malaysia Aviation Group, commented, “Partnering with Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel represents a significant step in our commitment to strengthening Malaysia Airlines’ presence in the Indian market. This collaboration allows us to leverage the strengths of both companies to offer tailored travel solutions and exceptional experiences for Indian travellers. We are confident that this partnership will not only boost tourism between our countries but also enrich the travel experiences of our customers, showcasing the best of Malaysia and beyond.”

Aster Medcity Promotes Healthy Eating with Week-Long Events During Nutrition Week

Kochi, 10-September-2024: – Aster Medcity marked National Nutrition Week from September 1st to 7th, 2024, with the theme “A Nutritious Diet for Everyone. “ The week was filled with exciting and educational activities aimed at promoting healthy eating habits among the community.

Various competitions were organized for Aster employees, including a Reel Competition, Painting Competition, quiz, a unique Food Sculpture event where participants crafted artistic creations using edible fruits and vegetables and an awareness session on healthy eating at the pediatric ward was also done. There were fun games engaged both the public and Aster employees. Prizes were awarded to the winners of each competition.

The hospital also conducted a talk on promoting healthy eating at St. Albert’s College, Kochi.

Zoetis Expands Hyderabad Capability Center

Hyderabad, September 10, 2024: Zoetis Inc. the world’s leading animal health company, today announced a significant expansion of its India Capability Center in Hyderabad. This move marks a pivotal step in advancing global animal healthcare through cutting-edge technology.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by Hon’ble Minister for IT, E&C, Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs, Govt of Telangana, showcased Zoetis’ commitment to fostering innovation in animal health and contributing to India’s burgeoning veterinary sector. The expanded center is set to create several hundred new high-skilled jobs by the end of 2025.

Sri D. Sridhar Babu, Minister for IT, E&C, Industries & Commerce and Legislative Affairs, Govt of Telangana, said, “I am delighted to inaugurate the Zoetis India Capability Center’s brand-new office in Hyderabad. This expansion of Zoetis, the world’s largest animal health company, is a testament to Telangana’s emergence as a hub for specialized life sciences and technology talent. This investment not only creates jobs but also positions our state at the forefront of the global healthcare revolution and as the destination for One-Health. I am excited to see how they will leverage our local expertise to drive worldwide innovations in veterinary care and we will offer all support to them to grow from this dynamic city.”

Keith Sarbaugh, Chief Information Officer at Zoetis, said, “This expansion is a cornerstone of our global strategy to harness technology for better animal health outcomes. By tapping into India’s world-class tech and digital talent and vibrant start-up ecosystem, we’re accelerating our ability to deliver breakthrough solutions for veterinarians, pet owners, and livestock farmers across the globe. Hyderabad will play a crucial role in driving our digital transformation and cementing our position as the tech leader in animal health.”

As the premier global Capability Center dedicated to animal health in India, the facility underscores Zoetis’ industry leadership and its recognition of India’s critical role in the global veterinary landscape. The global animal health market is projected to grow at a rate of 4-6% in the next five to ten years. This growth is driven by increasing pet ownership, growing medicalization of companion animals, and rising global demand for animal protein.

As the leader in animal health, Zoetis has invested more in research and development than any other company in the animal health industry and has consistently increased its R&D investment over the last several years, reaching $613 million in 2023. This investment fuels the company’s focus on science-driven innovation that has led to the creation and growth of new markets to address unmet medical needs.

Anil Raghav, Vice President and Head of Zoetis India Capability Center, added, “Our Hyderabad center is poised to become a global powerhouse for veterinary technology innovation. We’re not just expanding our physical presence; we’re creating a nexus where India’s top tech talent will directly impact the future of animal health worldwide. From AI-driven diagnostic tools to industry-leading digital solutions for veterinarians and pet owners, the technology developed here will allow Zoetis to advance its vision to shape the future of animal care globally.”

Tiger Analytics recognized as Leader in Supply Chain Specialty Analytics services by ISG Advisory Group

Chennai, 10th September, 2024: Tiger Analytics, a global leader in AI and analytics is recognized as a Leader in Supply Chain Specialty Analytics Services by ISG Advisory Group in its 2024 provider lens report. This recognition highlights Tiger Analytics’ innovative Supply Chain Intelligence (SCAI) solution, which integrates cutting-edge technologies and excels in data augmentation from external sources.

 The ISG report emphasizes Tiger Analytics’ modular SCAI solution, which is designed to build a robust data foundation, offer prebuilt AI and ML code templates for decision intelligence, and provide comprehensive operational visibility and simulation capabilities across supply chain functions. The solution’s strengths include the integration of next-gen technologies like Generative AI, computer vision, graph databases, and reinforcement learning, as well as the ability to enrich internal data with external sources and real-time feeds for enhanced decision-making.

 “Despite significant investments in technology and processes, Supply Chains lack the resilience and agility to be effective. Our clients love Tiger SCAI, our Supply Chain Intelligence solution which helps realize value quickly through its open ecosystem architecture, connected data foundation and AI & Analytical components to solve complex supply chain problems. This makes our solution futuristic as well as realistic.”, said Hari Natarajan, Vice President, Tiger Analytics.

 Tiger Analytics’ state-of-the-art SCAI solution empowers enterprises with Decision Intelligence capabilities that optimize operations and provide a competitive advantage. The SCAI solution includes:

 1. Supply Chain Data Foundation: A set of predeveloped tools and accelerators on all cloud platforms, establishing a robust data foundation to support Integrated Business Planning (IBP) and Sales & Operations Execution (S&OE) processes.
2. Connected Supply Chain Visibility: Gain complete transparency across your entire supply chain. Our solutions identify potential disruptions before they impact your business, enabling proactive decision-making.
3. Automated Decision Intelligence: Boost the effectiveness of your Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) and Execution (S&OE) with advanced analytics and sophisticated models. These solutions enable data-driven enabling auto-corrective decisions that keep your operations running smoothly.
4. Sustainability solution: Leverage our analytics solutions to optimize product design and sourcing, resource allocation, and environmental impact. Monitor ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors and ensure regulatory compliance.
5. Simulation Factory: A unique solution to help simulate real world situations to enable decision making

“Tiger Analytics’ Supply Chain Intelligence solution, SCAI, provides a modular framework with strong data foundation, AI-driven decision intelligence, and comprehensive operational visibility for supply chain owners. said Manav Deep Sachdeva, Senior Manager & Principal Analyst, ISG. “Its proven expertise in multiple industries enables precise predictions and simulations for proactive decision-making across supply chain segments”, he added.

Crio.Do partners with Foundation For Excellence to empower economically disadvantaged engineering students

National 10th September 2024: Crio.Do, a leading experiential learning platform for aspiring software developers, announced its partnership with the Foundation for Excellence (FFE), a platform dedicated to support engineering students from financially constrained backgrounds by providing scholarships for their college degrees. This partnership will support economically disadvantaged students from tier-1 colleges. It aligns with Crio.Do’s commitment to social responsibility and its mission to bridge the skill development gap in the tech industry.

Through this partnership, Crio.Do and FFE are working together to provide these students with the necessary skills to excel in the tech industry, thereby contributing to their socio-economic upliftment.

The programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all learners, regardless of their background, college, or location. Even students from premier colleges opt for this upskilling program because they believe in learning beyond the classroom. Crio.Do’s program is for everyone who has a knack for learning, no matter where they come from.

“Our aim is to continue expanding its impact by reaching more students and professionals globally. The goal is to further enhance the accessibility and quality of tech education, ensuring that learners from all backgrounds have the opportunity to develop the skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving tech industry. We are thrilled to partner with the Foundation for Excellence in this important initiative. We hope to make a significant impact on the lives of these students, enabling them to pursue successful careers in software development and contribute to the future of technology in India.” said Suryanarayanan Paneerselvam, CEO of Crio.Do

Crio.Do has successfully helped transform the careers of over 10,000 learners nationwide, showcasing its dedication to empowering engineers and developers through experiential learning. This achievement sets the stage for even greater accomplishments in the coming years.

Crio.Do underscores its commitment to fostering social development and closing the skill development gap by equipping talented individuals with advanced software development skills. Viewing skill development as a vital aspect of its social responsibility, Crio aims to contribute to national progress and create a more inclusive tech community. Through Crio Accelerate, the program bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, emphasizing real-world projects and scenarios to provide hands-on experience that prepares learners for the job market, ultimately promoting a more equitable tech industry.

Additionally, in line with this commitment, Crio.Do has offered its Crio Accelerate program to over 20 students from a diverse range of institutions, including IITs, NITs, and other Tier-1, 2, and 3 colleges at no cost. This program is specifically designed to provide a condensed and intensive learning experience, equipping students with industry-relevant skills in a shorter timeframe. By offering these scholarships, Crio.Do ensures that talented students from economically weaker sections have the opportunity to succeed in their chosen fields, regardless of their financial background.

Shriram Finance Welcomes Cricket Legend Rahul Dravid as Brand Ambassador

Mumbai, 10 September 2024: Shriram Finance Ltd., the flagship company of the Shriram Group, proudly announces the onboarding of former Captain and Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team, Rahul Dravid, as their Brand Ambassador. This partnership unites two iconic entities renowned for their trust and reliability.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

Rahul Dravid, celebrated for his unwavering dedication on the cricket field, epitomizes the core values that Shriram Finance upholds. Just as Rahul was the backbone of Indian Cricket, Shriram Finance has been a steadfast partner in the financial journeys of countless individuals and businesses across the nation.

Umesh Revankar, Executive Vice Chairman, Shriram Finance: “At Shriram Finance, our mission has always been to empower our customers by providing them with the financial tools and support they need to succeed. Rahul Dravid, with his commitment and impeccable record in nurturing young talent, aligns perfectly with our goal of enabling growth and success. We are thrilled to have him on board as our brand ambassador.”

YS Chakravarti, Managing Director and CEO, Shriram Finance: “Rahul Dravid’s association with Shriram Finance represents a perfect blend of two entities that have consistently demonstrated trust, reliability, and excellence in their respective fields. Just as Rahul has been a pillar of strength for Indian cricket, Shriram Finance has been a reliable partner to our customers, helping them achieve their financial goals with confidence and security.”

Rahul Dravid, Former Captain and Coach of the Indian National Cricket Team: “I am honored to be associated with Shriram Finance, a company that has consistently prioritized the needs of its customers. Just as in cricket, where every innings is built on a foundation of trust and resilience, Shriram Finance has been building and supporting the financial journeys of individuals and businesses across India. I look forward to this partnership and to contributing to the company’s continued success.”

Shriram Finance is confident that this strategic association with Rahul Dravid will significantly advance its goals. This partnership not only strengthens Shriram Finance’s mission to positively impact the financial well-being of individuals and businesses in India but also reinforces its commitment to the values of trust and reliability that Rahul Dravid personifies on and off the field.