30, Aug 2024
build3 secures INR 3 Cr grant from the Indian government to help build impact startups
Goa, 30th August, 2024: build3, the go-to ecosystem to build impact startups (startups which are for profit AND purpose), has announced today that it has been selected as an incubator under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme at the 56th Expert Advisory Committee meeting. The firm has also received approval from the Experts Advisory Committee (EAC), with a total commitment of INR 3 Crore grant from the Government of India. This development marks a significant milestone for build3 as it embarks on further strengthening the early-stage impact startup ecosystem in the country, supporting founders who build towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Introduced by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme has been designed to provide financial support to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry, and commercialization. The evaluation process for selecting build3 as an incubator under the scheme included several parameters, including the quality of the team, prior track record, capital investments, investments from external sources, infrastructure, performance of incubated startups and others. As a government-recognised incubator, build3 is eligible to disburse funds to impact founders to help them develop their product and enter the market.
Mr. Varun Chawla, Co-Founder of build3, expressed his excitement , saying, “The support of the government is a testament to build3’s vision of supporting founders that build startups that make the world a better place. The benefits of capitalism lie in its thrust on innovation and creativity; the incentive to create new products that channel human ingenuity and passion. build3 aims to act as a canvas where capitalism and wholeness intersect to create products that truly benefit humanity. We are glad to partner with the government to help achieve this vision.”
Selection as an incubator under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme comes only days after build3 was awarded the 2024 Flourish Prize from the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University as an agent of change. As a recognised incubator, the Goa-based firm will now look forward to its third cohort of the Impact Accelerator to help build the next wave of impact startups. As per the regulations of the scheme, build3 will shortlist eligible startups considering scheme guidelines that have been operationalised from April 1, 2021.
A certified B Corp organisation, build3 helps build startups through its offering of capability, community and capital. It also extends additional help by raising additional funds from external sources for selected startups. Along with Varun Chawla, Girish Sampath and Anjali Nair have been instrumental in securing the Startup India Seed Fund grant for build3. The firm aims to help 100,000 impact founders build startups that benefit the mind, body, and earth (building towards UN SDGs).
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- By Rabindra
30, Aug 2024
After PV Sindhu, MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria Joins Greenday’s ‘Better Nutrition’ as Investor and Culinary Advisor
Mumbai, India – August 30, 2024: Ahead of National Nutrition Week, Greenday is thrilled to announce that MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria has joined the ‘Better Nutrition’ brand as both an investor and culinary advisor, further strengthening the company’s commitment to revolutionizing nutrition in India. This exciting development comes on the heels of PV Sindhu’s recent endorsement and investment in the brand.
Pankaj Bhadouria, a renowned culinary expert and India’s 1st MasterChef, brings her vast experience and passion for healthy cooking to Greenday. As the new product development lead, Pankaj will be instrumental in creating innovative biofortified food products that cater to the health-conscious consumer.
Pankaj Bhadouria’s endorsement and investment with Greenday crystallized after she experienced the company’s product firsthand. Realizing that this venture aligned perfectly with her passion for mindfully blending nourishment with flavour, Pankaj felt a profound connection. This sense of shared roots brought her directly to the fields and farmers, inspiring her to become a part of the ‘Better Nutrition’ brand.
Pankaj Bhadouria stated, “I am excited to partner with Greenday and its brand ‘Better Nutrition’. This collaboration aligns perfectly with my passion for promoting healthy eating habits. Together, we aim to develop products that not only enhance nutrition but also delight the palate.”
Greenday’s mission to combat micronutrient deficiencies through biofortification is further bolstered by this partnership. The company’s robust supply chain, featuring 80 plus agri-input stores and strong farmer connections, ensures a steady supply of high-quality biofortified crops. The omnichannel vision of Greenday integrates both online and offline platforms to provide a seamless consumer experience, making biofortified products more accessible to a broader audience.
Prateek Rastogi, Founder and CEO of Greenday, expressed his enthusiasm, “Having MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria on board is a significant milestone for Greenday. Her culinary expertise and commitment to healthy living will be invaluable as we continue to develop and promote our range of biofortified products. Alongside PV Sindhu, Pankaj’s involvement will help us reach new heights in our mission to enhance the nutritional quality of food in India.”
PV Sindhu also welcomed Pankaj, saying, “It’s wonderful to see such talented and passionate individuals joining our mission. With Pankaj’s expertise in healthy cooking and my focus on sports nutrition, we are well-equipped to make a significant impact on health and nutrition in India.”
Greenday continues to lead the charge in creating a traceable supply chain for biofortified foods, addressing critical issues in the agricultural value chain, and setting a high standard in the agritech sector.
30, Aug 2024
Canadian Wood hosts an engaging seminar for wood manufacturing industry in Jodhpur
30th August 2024, Jodhpur: The British Columbia (B.C.) provincial government’s crown corporation, Forestry Innovation Consulting India Pvt Ltd (FII India), popularly known as Canadian Wood, successfully conducted a seminar titled “Canadian Wood – A Sustainable Solution” at Taj Hari Mahal, Jodhpur. The event brought together manufacturer from woodworking industry and furniture buying houses members for an in-depth exploration of the benefits and applications of sustainably sourced Canadian wood species.
The seminar featured insightful presentations from Canadian Wood’s expert team, including Mr. Pranesh Chhibber, Country Director, Dr. Jimmy Thomas, Assistant Director – Technical Services; and Mr. Rambeer Singh Yadav, Assistant Director – Business Development. These experts delved into the versatility, sustainability, certification and environmental advantages of Canadian wood species, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of the raw material’s potential in various manufacturing and woodworking contexts.
Mr. Pranesh Chhibber opened the seminar with a keynote address that emphasized the significance of sustainable wood practices and its standard certifications which reaffirms Canadian Wood’s commitment on promoting eco-friendly solutions in the wood product manufacturing industries. Dr. Jimmy Thomas followed with a detailed discussion on the technical and environmental benefits of using certified wood species, while Mr. Rambeer Singh Yadav presented case studies and showcased pictures as examples that demonstrated the adaptability of Canadian Wood species in diverse applications.
Sharing his experience, Mr. Pranesh Chhibber, Country Director of Canadian Wood shared, “Jodhpur is a key market for Canadian Wood, with the largest concentration of manufacturers residing in a single city. We’ve been actively engaging with the leading players here, and the potential is immense. The market is evolving as awareness of newer materials, including softwood, is on the rise. Jodhpur presents a tremendous opportunity for Canadian Wood. The experience of holding the seminar here has been remarkable, with an audience that is both knowledgeable and experienced. They ask the right questions, and it’s been a pleasure collaborating with such a dynamic group of professionals.”
Attendees engaged actively in the seminar, participating in interactive Q&A sessions and networking opportunities that facilitated the exchange of ideas and potential collaborations. The event underscored the importance of using certified, sustainably sourced wood, showcasing Canadian Wood as a leader in providing eco-friendly materials for the Indian woodworking Industry.
Canadian Wood promotes five major wood species in India—Douglas-fir, Western Hemlock, Western Red Cedar, Yellow Cedar, and Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF)—all sourced from the sustainably managed forests of British Columbia, Canada. These species are recommended for a wide range of applications and are available in 17 cities across India through a robust network of over 29 stockists.
This seminar in Jodhpur is part of Canadian Wood’s ongoing efforts to advocate for sustainable wood solutions across India, building on the success of similar events held nationwide.
30, Aug 2024
13th Edition of JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon – India’s third largest half marathon is back with a bang
Pune(S.N)– With a record-breaking total of 8000+ participant registrations, the 13th edition of the highly anticipated JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon (SHHM) organized by Satara Runners Foundation, a non-profit organization, is all set to bring together running enthusiasts from across the country on September 1st, 2024. The theme for this year’s marathon is “Aham Yoddhāsmi!” or “I am a Fighter”. This theme serves as a powerful reminder that each person possesses an indomitable spirit, a warrior capable of surmounting any challenge. The Sanskrit phrase is a rallying cry that inspires participants to confront adversity head-on, to push past their limits, and to emerge triumphant, not just at the finish line, but in the battles of life that lie ahead.
Dr Sandeep Kate, Founder of Satara Runners Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “As we embark on the 13th edition of the JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon, I am reminded that every step taken on these challenging hills is a testament to our inner warrior. ‘Aham Yoddhāsmi!’ isn’t just a theme; it’s a call for every participant to unleash their resilience and embrace the journey ahead. Together, we will not only conquer the mountain but also inspire each other to rise above life’s adversities.”
Gaurav Jajodia, Director of Jai Balaji Group, the title sponsor, highlighted the importance of embodying the spirit of resilience, determination, and courage, “At Jai Balaji Group, we believe in the power of community and the strength that comes from shared challenges. Supporting the JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon is about more than just sponsorship; it’s about igniting the fire within each runner. This year, as we witness the incredible spirit of the participants, we are not just cheering for the finishers; we are celebrating every individual who dares to push their limits and redefine what it means to be a fighter.”
Organized by the Satara Runners Foundation since 2012, the JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon holds the Guinness World Record for the “Most People in a Single Mountain Run,” solidifying its status as India’s third-largest half marathon, following the Tata Mumbai Marathon and the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon. In the past, the event has featured many renowned personalities like IG Krishna Prakash, Vishwas Nangre Patil and boasts the second-highest number of female participants among marathons in the country. Notable figures such as IG Krishna Prakash, Sushant Dash, CEO, Starbucks India will also join this year’s adventurous run, enhancing the event’s prestige and community spirit.
The upcoming JBG Satara Hill Half Marathon will feature an “Out and Back” course starting from the Satara Police Parade Ground, running from 6:30 am to 10:30 am. Committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants, the event will be well-equipped with a range of medical support, including 8 to 9 cardiac ambulances and 9 to 10 bike ambulances strategically positioned along the course. Additionally, there will be 14 aid stations stocked with first aid kits to address any immediate needs. To help runners cool down and recover, the marathon will feature 3 dedicated cool zones offering ice baths and 9 cheer zones will be set up along the route to uplift and motivate participants, creating an encouraging atmosphere.
The funds raised through SHHM will be channeled towards enhancing the participant experience, including a 16-week training program organized by the pacers via offline and online sessions. They will also be used for India’s First Marathon Museum, dedicated to Runners & Running Events all over India. Moreover, the event contributes to the community by establishing open gyms and street workout stations in Satara, fostering a culture of fitness and well-being.
30, Aug 2024
Papon Visits Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi During Pune Show
Pune, August, 2024– Renowned Indian playback singer and music composer Papon recently visited Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi during his tour in Pune. The hotel had the privilege of hosting the acclaimed artist, making his stay memorable with an exquisite blend of traditional and contemporary hospitality.
Upon his arrival, Papon was greeted with a vibrant Bihu dance performance, a traditional Assamese dance, followed by an Aarti Tilak ceremony. The warm and culturally rich welcome left a lasting impression on the artist, who expressed his appreciation for the hotel’s thoughtful gesture.
Papon lauded the hospitality and service at Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi, stating, “The warm welcome and the attention to detail made my stay truly special. The Bihu dance was a beautiful touch that made me feel right at home.”
Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi is quickly becoming the preferred choice for celebrities and prominent personalities visiting the area. The hotel’s commitment to providing personalized and luxurious experiences continues to set it apart as a top destination for high-profile guests.
“We are honored to have hosted Papon and to have provided him with an experience that resonated with his cultural roots,”. “Our team strives to create memorable experiences for all our guests, and we are thrilled to be recognized as a preferred location for celebrities visiting Hinjawadi.”
30, Aug 2024
PhonePe Payment Gateway Launches PhonePe PG Bolt to Revolutionize In-App Payments for Merchants
Bengaluru 30th Aug , 2024 – PhonePe Payment Gateway, today announced the launch of PhonePe PG Bolt, a groundbreaking solution that empowers merchants by offering the fastest in-app payment experience to customers with 99% success rate. PhonePe PG Bolt offers a 1- second transaction time with the widest reach for registered PhonePe merchants and users who can integrate their payments across apps without multiple onboarding.
PhonePe PG Bolt offers a multitude of benefits that set it apart from other payment solutions in the market. With a focus on speed, convenience, and reliability, PhonePe PG Bolt delivers a 10x faster payment experience with UPI Lite, Wallets, EGVs, through a one click, PIN-less process. Unlike other solutions that require multiple steps and phone permissions, PhonePe PG Bolt eliminates these hurdles, ensuring enhanced customer experience and efficient payment journey which leads to increased conversion rates and drive business growth.
By providing complete control over the customer’s payment experience within the merchant app, PhonePe PG Bolt eliminates the need for redirection to external payment platforms. Merchants can offer a wide range of payment options, including UPI Lite, UPI-linked bank accounts, electronic gift cards, Rupay credit cards, and wallets, to cater to diverse customer preferences. This comprehensive suite of payment options, coupled with PhonePe’s extensive user base helps position merchants for success.
PhonePe PG Bolt addresses key challenges faced by merchants, especially Enterprises, by reducing transaction failures, eliminating payment funnel drop-offs, and minimizing cart abandonment. By integrating the PhonePe PG Bolt, merchants can significantly improve customer satisfaction, increase sales, and gain a competitive edge in the market.
“We are excited to launch PhonePe PG Bolt as it represents a significant milestone in our mission to empower businesses and enhance the overall payment experience for consumers,” said Ankit Gaur, Head PhonePe Payment Gateway & Online Merchants. “By providing merchants with the tools to create a seamless and secure payment environment, we are confident that PhonePe PG Bolt will drive substantial growth and success for businesses of all sizes.”
By partnering with multiple leading banks, PhonePe PG Bolt ensures robust payment processing capabilities due to reduced transaction failures.
India’s leading beauty and lifestyle retailer, Nykaa is among the early adopters of the new solution. “PhonePe PG Bolt offers a seamless, one-click payment solution that addresses drop-offs and improves success rates, enhancing our understanding of the customer journey and satisfaction. We are excited to elevate the retail experience for our customers with this promising solution,” said Rajesh Uppalapati, Chief Technology Officer, Nykaa.
PhonePe PG Bolt’s ability to seamlessly integrate with PhonePe’s platform enhances the overall UPI payment ecosystem and contributes to the growth of digital payments in India.
30, Aug 2024
Apollo Hospitals Unveils New Clinical Initiatives in Colorectal Surgery at the 5th Edition of Apollo International Colorectal Surgery Symposium
Chennai, August 30, 2024: – Apollo Hospitals, a leader in healthcare innovation, unveiled the new groundbreaking clinical initiatives in colorectal surgery, during the inauguration of the 5th edition of Apollo International Colorectal Surgery Symposium (AICRS 2024). The event also marks the release of the latest patient clinical outcomes from the Apollo Rectal Cancer Programme.
Apollo Hospitals, a pioneer in the field of advanced colorectal healthcare, is set to transform the landscape of colorectal surgery with the introduction of innovative clinical initiatives. These initiatives are designed to enhance surgical precision, improve patient outcomes, and streamline care processes, solidifying Apollo’s position as a global leader in colorectal healthcare.
The Apollo Proton Cancer Centre’s / Apollo Hospitals ARC Programme has achieved outstanding clinical outcomes in Rectal Cancer Surgery, surpassing global standards in key areas. Notably, the programme has reported a lower resection margin positivity rate of 4.6% compared to the global standard of 5.2%, anastomotic leak rates of 0.9% versus 2.6%, wound infection rates of 1.4% versus 5.2%, and readmission rates of 1.9% versus 21.4%. Additionally, the programme has seen a significant reduction in robotic to open conversion rates, at 1% compared to 7.0%. These exceptional outcomes have also led to improved survival rates, with significant advancements in treatment protocols contributing to higher long-term survival rates for rectal cancer patients.
Prof Dr Venkatesh Munikrishnan, Consultant, Colorectal Surgeon & Clinical Lead Institute of Colorectal Surgery, Apollo Hospitals, said, “The 5th Apollo International Colorectal Surgery Symposium, is a landmark event that is poised to revolutionize colorectal cancer care. We have standardized robotic surgeries and built the world’s most cost-efficient robotic surgery programme for colorectal cancer. On an average we are at ¼th cost of a similar procedure in western countries. Apollo Proton’s ARC Programme has been a game-changer in rectal cancer treatment, where we’ve seen remarkable outcomes, enhancing patients’ quality of life.”
Prof Dr Steven D Wexner, Director, Digestive Disease Center & Chairman- Dept of Colorectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Florida, USA, said, “The opportunity for colorectal surgeons to work among three of the world’s leading departments, located in North America, Asia, and Europe, is truly unique. Over the past decade, Dr. Munikrishnan, Dr. Chand and I, have engaged in unparalleled collaboration, sharing best practices, enriching educational experiences, and advancing technological innovations. These efforts have led to continuous optimization of patient outcomes. The willingness of these surgeons to generously share their knowledge internationally, both in person through podium presentations and in press and journal publications, has ensured that their collaborative advances benefit patients worldwide.”
Dr Preetha Reddy Executive Vice Chairperson Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “The Apollo International Colorectal Surgery Symposium stands as a premier global event, bringing together the world’s most distinguished experts, researchers, and clinicians in colorectal surgery. This ground-breaking symposium is not just a gathering of minds; it is a transformative learning experience, especially for young surgeons. In an unprecedented move in India, we have made registration complimentary, ensuring that emerging talent has unhindered access to this wealth of knowledge. Our ARC Programme has consistently delivered exceptional clinical outcomes, surpassing global benchmarks in several critical areas. We are privileged to showcase these achievements at the 5th Apollo International Colorectal Surgery Symposium, further reinforcing our commitment to advancing healthcare.”
AICRS2024 Event Highlights
The 5th Apollo International Colorectal Surgery Symposium is set to take place from 30th August to 1st September 2024 at the Hyatt Regency, Chennai. The three-day symposium is aimed to share knowledge and collaborate on the latest advancements in colorectal surgery.
This year’s event features:
• Complimentary Registration:
For the first time in India, Apollo Hospitals is offering complimentary registration, allowing young surgeons to focus on high-quality learning without financial barriers.
• Expert Presentations and Panels:
In-depth discussions on the latest advancements in colorectal surgery.
• Live Rectal Cancer Surgery Demonstrations:
Showcasing new surgical techniques and technologies.
• Networking Opportunities:
Facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange among global leaders in colorectal care.
30, Aug 2024
University of Southampton awarded licence to establish India campus
National, August 2024: The UK’s University of Southampton, world top 100 university, has become the first UK university to be granted a licence by the Indian government to establish a comprehensive campus in the country.
The granting of a licence from the University Grants Commission (UGC) marks a significant step forward, allowing the University of Southampton to progress with its plans to offer world-leading education, research, knowledge exchange, and enterprise in India.
The University has been active in India for more than 50 years and has developed deep and mutually beneficial partnerships. The upcoming campus will enable the University of Southampton to build on these links by amplifying research collaboration and impact, extending teaching partnerships, creating two-way student and staff mobility, and ensuring local civic and community engagement. It aims to develop world-class, work-prepared graduates with specialist and transferable higher skills that will enhance India’s fast-growing knowledge economy. The campus will undertake research and knowledge exchange in partnership with local universities, industries, and government, applying the results to deliver real-world social and economic impact, and enable a more entrepreneurial and innovative country.
Speaking on the announcement, Mark E. Smith, President, and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Southampton, said: “In the 21st century, no university can be truly global without engaging with India. Our intention is to establish a campus that delivers social value and economic impact to India and the university by bringing together Southampton’s world class activities in education, research, and knowledge exchange and enterprise, with all the talent of the rising global superpower that is India.”
He further added, “Through this new campus, the University of Southampton will help deliver a critical element of the Government of India’s transformative agenda, playing our part in harnessing the potential, talent and capabilities of Indian youth.”
Professor Andrew Atherton, Vice-President International and Engagement, said: “University of Southampton Delhi NCR will be the first comprehensive international campus in India. It will foster academic collaboration and bring an international dimension to the Indian higher education system, opening up opportunities to study for a top 100 degree in-country.
“We will develop world-class, work-ready graduates with specialist and transferable skills that will enhance India’s fast-growing knowledge economy. We will undertake research and knowledge exchange in partnership with local universities, industries and government and apply the results to deliver real-world social and economic impact.
“This is a hugely exciting initiative for India, and our university, and we thank the University Grants Commission of India, the Ministry of Education, the British High Commission, the Indian High Commission, and the British Council, for their confidence in our application” he added.
Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said:
“The new University of Southampton campus will be a centre of world-class education and innovation. It will also give more British students the chance to have the incredible experience of living and studying in India.
“This exciting collaboration will foster educational excellence and further strengthen the unique living bridge that connects our two countries.”
Alison Barrett MBE, Director India, British Council, added:
“The University of Southampton’s decision to establish a campus in India is a testament to the thriving education partnership between India and the UK.
“This landmark development marks our shared commitment to the internationalisation of education, research and innovation as set out in the National Education Policy 2020. It reinforces our belief that education is a powerful catalyst for building bridges and cross-cultural understanding between nations and shaping a brighter future for young people.”
30, Aug 2024
“My data or yours?” Unravelling Multi-Party Privacy (MPP) among Consumers of Digital Credit in India
Bangalore, August 30, 2024: In the wake of India’s unprecedented surge in digital financial services, IIIT-Bangalore and CUTS International hosted an important workshop in Bangalore to discuss the complexity of Multi-Party Privacy (MPP) within the country’s evolving digital lending sector. At this hybrid event, project findings were presented which have been conducted by the two institutions, with funding from the Centre for Effective Global Action (CEGA) at the University of California, Berkeley, USA.
The research led by Profs. Janaki Srinivasan, V. Sridhar, and T.K. Srikanth from IIIT-Bangalore, along with Amol Kulkarni and Asheef Iqubbal from CUTS, provided insights into privacy and consent challenges in digital lending. The study emphasised that while co-owned data is important for expanding access to credit, users ideally expect consent from all parties involved. However, due to practical reasons many users feel constrained by app designs that lack mechanisms for seeking permission before sharing co-owned data. The study also highlighted that Digital Lending Providers frequently use alternative data sources, such as e-commerce transactions and telecom records, to assess creditworthiness for collateral free loans and it raises multi-party privacy concerns for the consumers. Regulations addressing these concerns in digital lending are still evolving.
The workshop comes at a critical juncture in India’s digital financial expansion, particularly in digital lending. The previous financial year saw an unprecedented 154 billion transactions through the Unified Payment Interface (UPI), accounting for approximately 80% of all payments in the country. Building on this success, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced plans to launch the Unified Lending Interface (ULI), aiming to revolutionise access to digital lending much as UPI transformed digital payments.
The workshop featured insights from leading voices in the digital finance sector. Rakesh Maheshwari, Former Sr. Director and Group Coordinator of Cyber Laws and Data Governance at MeitY, expressed the view that the existing digital lending guidelines released by the RBI and the provisions on consent, data retention, and purpose as outlined in the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act 2023 cover most aspects of privacy applicable to digital lending.
Jatinder Handoo, CEO of the Digital Lenders Association of India (DLAI), provided details on the steps taken by digital lending platforms (DLPs) to comply with privacy and data protection regulations. He highlighted the Self-Regulating Organisation (SRO) model initiated by the RBI as a positive step towards better management of consumer and business interests of DLPs. He also mentioned DLAI’s initiatives in creating an open financial fraud repository to facilitate knowledge exchange among DLPs.
Ranjeet Rane, Research Head at the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub, stressed the need to balance regulatory interventions with promoting innovation in the digital lending space. He advocated for both process and product innovation, emphasising the importance of leveraging technological advancements in digital financial services while addressing potential privacy and security concerns of users.
Misha Sharma, Head of Household Finance at Dvara Research, while appreciating the research team’s methodology, highlighted the need for benchmark studies to compare DLPs and educate consumers. She also noted that current regulations focus on “consumer verification” and should shift towards “consumer protection.”
Sumit Ghoshal, Senior Partner at AZB & Partners, discussed the high costs incurred by DLPs in complying with multiple regulations (e.g., DPDP Act, Consumer Protection Act, Digital Lending guidelines). He stressed the need for integrating all rules and regulations into a unified framework.
Garima Agarwal, Researcher at the Centre for Internet and Society, emphasised the importance of understanding differential privacy needs for different data segments by DLPs. She also commended the grievance redressal process established by the RBI as a step in the right direction.
The workshop concluded with a number of takeaways for consumers, DLPs, and regulatory organisations. The PIs indicated that the report shall be made available soon in open repository for public use.
30, Aug 2024
IoTechWorld Avigation Receives DGCA Approval for Remote Pilot Training Organization
Gurugram, 30th August 2024: IoTechWorld Avigation, a pioneering drone manufacturer in India, is thrilled to announce that it has received approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to establish a Remote Pilot Training Organization (RPTO). This landmark achievement underscores IoTechWorld’s commitment to advancing drone technology and training in India, positioning the company at the forefront of the rapidly evolving unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industry.
The RPTO approval grants IoTechWorld the authority to provide comprehensive training for both small and medium-class drones, marking a significant leap in the company’s capabilities. The training programs will be conducted by DGCA-certified instructors, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of safety and proficiency. What sets IoTechWorld’s RPTO apart is its innovative approach to training, which combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on, application-based drone flying experience.
The state-of-the-art RPTO facility is strategically located at Dhumaspur Road, near Delhi Public School, Sector 67A, Badshahpur, Gurugram. This location provides easy access for trainees while offering an ideal environment for both theoretical learning and practical flying exercises & real-time application-based training.
Mr. Deepak Bhardwaj, Co-Founder and Director, of IoTechWorld Avigation, expressed his enthusiasm about this development, saying, “This DGCA approval for our RPTO is a game-changer for IoTechWorld and the Indian drone industry as a whole. It empowers us to deliver comprehensive, high-quality training to aspiring drone pilots, further solidifying our position as industry leaders. Our goal is to create a new generation of skilled drone operators who can harness the full potential of this technology across various sectors, particularly in agriculture where our focus lies.”
The newly established RPTO boasts an impressive annual training capacity of approximately 800 individuals. IoTechWorld will offer a diverse range of training programs tailored to meet different needs and drone classifications. These include Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) courses for both small and medium drones, as well as specialized RPC+OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) courses that provide in-depth knowledge of specific drone models and their applications.
Mr. Anoop Upadhyay director & co-founder of IoTech World said “This DGCA approval for our RPTO is a testament to IoTechWorld Avigation’s dedication to pioneering excellence in the drone industry. Beyond building drones, we are also building the future of drone operations in India. This approval is a significant step forward in our mission to revolutionize the agricultural sector and beyond. By offering comprehensive, hands-on training at our state-of-the-art facility, we are empowering a new generation of drone operators to lead the way in innovative, technology-driven solutions. We look forward to further expanding our drone ecosystem in India with more such facilities.”
One of the standout features of IoTechWorld’s training approach is the integration of real-time, application-based flying exercises. This practical component ensures that trainees not only understand the theoretical aspects of drone operation but also gain valuable hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. The duration of these courses will vary based on factors such as the number of candidates, drone class, and weather conditions, with the shortest program lasting 8 days.
The RPTO license, authorized by DGCA, carries a validity of 10 years from the date of issuance, reflecting the regulatory body’s confidence in IoTechWorld’s long-term commitment to quality training. Similarly, the Remote Pilot Certificates (RPCs) issued by IoTechWorld’s RPTO will be valid for 10 years from the date of issuance, providing graduates with long-term professional credentials.
This DGCA approval marks a significant milestone in IoTechWorld Avigation’s mission to build a robust drone ecosystem in India. By providing high-quality training and certification, IoTechWorld aims to bridge the skills gap in the drone industry, empowering its customers, farmers, and Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) partners to fully leverage UAV technology. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to the growth and development of various sectors, with a particular emphasis on revolutionizing agricultural practices through advanced drone applications.
As IoTechWorld Avigation continues to push the boundaries of drone technology and training, this RPTO approval solidifies its position as a key player in India’s journey towards becoming a global drone hub. The company remains committed to fostering innovation, skill development, and responsible drone usage, paving the way for a future where drones play an integral role in enhancing efficiency and productivity across industries.
