Author: Rabindra

Skydo partners with Banking Circle to accelerate cross-border collections for Indian businesses

Bengaluru, 23rd August 2024 – Banking Circle, a fully licensed next generation bank with central bank access, has entered a strategic partnership with Skydo, India’s leading cross-border payments platform for Micro, Small and Medium sized Enterprises (MSMEs) and freelancers. The collaboration aims to support Indian businesses operating globally by providing them with seamless, efficient and cost-effective payment solutions, enabling them to thrive in international markets.

Skydo is dedicated to making international transactions as seamless as local ones by eliminating high costs and lengthy settlement periods. Its transparent flat-fee pricing model, featuring real-time exchange rates and zero processing fees, allows India’s fast-growing Small and Medium Business (SMB) exporters to save up to 80% on forex transaction costs, streamlining payments and boosting profitability.

This collaboration with Banking Circle enables Skydo’s customers to offer their buyers in the UK and EU a broader range of local payment options. It also allows Skydo to expand its cross-border collection capabilities into new markets like Australia, aligning with Skydo’s commitment to saving Indian businesses $1 billion in FX fees over the next three years.

“At Skydo our mission is to simplify cross-border payments, making them affordable, transparent, and fully compliant for Indian businesses, and this partnership with Banking Circle aligns perfectly with that goal”, said Srivatsan Sridhar, Co-Founder and CEO, Skydo. “We are constantly in search of global rails that make payments faster, cheaper and more compliant and Banking Circle fits seamlessly with this objective. By leveraging Banking Circle’s global network, we can help more and more Indian businesses expand their operations globally.”

Mishal Ruparel, Chief Commercial Officer at Banking Circle added: “We are thrilled to support Skydo’s vision to help Indian merchants expand internationally. By leveraging Banking Circle’s virtual accounts as well as our local and cross-border payment rails, Skydo can streamline the payment process for its clients, reducing both costs and transaction times and opening new, exciting markets.”

Banking Circle and Skydo are financial modern technology platforms strongly committed to governance, compliance and reducing the costs associated with global payments. With a direct banking partner and a single API integration to Banking Circle’s infrastructure, Skydo can now offer its merchants a broader array of local payment and fund collection options.

This mutual partnership is expected to expand further as Banking Circle grows its presence in Asia and Skydo plans to introduce more currency options and payout capabilities for Indian businesses.

Bartronics India Limited Partners with AI Developer Jarvis to Drive Technological Advancements

National, 23rd August, 2024 – Bartronics India Limited is planning to make a strategic investment in Jarvis, an AI and Machine Learning-based investment advisory firm operating under the brand name ‘Ventugrow.’ Through this proposed investment, Bartronics aims to secure a 3% equity stake in Jarvis, along with an additional 2% in the form of Advisory Board Equity (sweat equity), resulting in a total 5% stake in the B2B segment. Furthermore, Bartronics plans to acquire a controlling 51% stake in a newly formed subsidiary, referred to as the “New Entity,” which will focus on the B2C segment.

This strategic initiative represents a significant milestone for Bartronics, poised to strengthen its presence in the rapidly growing AI-based financial technology industry. By integrating Jarvis’ AI and ML expertise, Bartronics anticipates enhancing its data analysis and decision-making processes, leading to more sophisticated and efficient service offerings.

“Beyond financial investment, this partnership also includes other strategic elements,” said Mr. N. Vidhya Sagar Reddy, Managing Director and spokesperson for Bartronics India Limited. “These include technology sharing, as Bartronics plans to gain access to Ventugrow’s ‘Jarvis’ brand and RIA license. Additionally, Bartronics intends to participate in the management, including appointing directors to both companies’ boards and playing a role in key business decisions. This partnership aligns with Bartronics’ objectives of diversification and technological advancement, paving the way for new product development and global expansion to extend the ‘Jarvis’ brand internationally.”

In the near future, Bartronics and Jarvis plan to focus on integrating AI technologies and establishing the new B2C entity. This collaboration is expected to enhance product development, drive innovation, and expand the global reach of Jarvis..

The potential acquisition is subject to the successful completion of due diligence and obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals. Bartronics India Ltd. will continue to update stakeholders on the progress of this exploration.

Speaking on the partnership, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, CEO & Founder of Jarvis, said, “Current users of ‘Jarvis’ will continue to benefit from the brand, with an improved app and enhanced customer service. This investment is a strategic step towards reinforcing Bartronics’ position as a leading provider of cutting-edge technology products.”

Make Your Tablescape a Festive Masterpiece with Rabyana

As the festive season approaches, holiday dinners and gatherings with loved ones take center stage. Beyond the food and company, the setting plays a crucial role in making these moments special. A beautifully arranged tablescape can turn any meal into a lavish celebration, and Rabyana is here to help you achieve just that.

 Rabyana, the newly launched luxury home decor brand, founded by Abhaye Gupta and Radhika Gupta has an exquisite tableware collection among a huge selection of home accents. Their products are designed by Radhika with an aim to combine functionality with aesthetics. Whether you prefer classic, timeless designs or contemporary, avant-garde styles, Rabyana offers something for every taste.

From opulent serveware to artisanal platters, each piece is crafted to become a conversation starter, making your holiday celebrations grander!

The Splash bowl

Freshen up your Serveware with the splash bowl. This polished gold-finished aluminum is sure to catch some compliments at your next gathering.

Sweet Splash Wine Holder

The abstract gold-toned wine holder, reminiscent of undulating waves frozen in time, infuses contemporary sophistication into any table setting, making it perfect for chic, modern gatherings and upscale events where style and innovation reign.

Lustrous Candle Holder

The candle holder, a brass sculptural marvel with an elegant, organic base reminiscent of graceful plant tendrils, holds candle cups with refined poise. Its warm, metallic glow makes it a striking centerpiece for everyday dining and casual gatherings, enhancing any setting with its distinctive allure.

Axiom Jar

The iridescent mosaic tiles on this exquisite jar make it a captivating decorative piece, perfect for elevating everyday dining and stylish living spaces with a touch of refined luxury and visual charm.

Star Health Insurance Donates Rs. 50 Lacs to Kerala CM Relief Fund, Launches Support for Wayanad

Wayanad, Kerala, 23 Aug 2024: Star Health and Allied Insurance (Star Health Insurance), India’s largest retail health insurance provider, made a contribution of Rs. 50 lacs to the Kerala Chief Minister’s Relief Fund in support of those affected by the recent landslide in Wayanad. The Company is focused on enabling extensive measures to ensure swift, compassionate assistance for affected individuals and families. This donation was presented by Mr. Anand Roy, Managing Director and CEO of Star Health Insurance, to the Honourable Chief Minister Shri. Pinarayi Vijayan, in a meeting held today.

Mr. Anand Roy, MD & CEO of Star Health Insurance, said, “At Star Health Insurance, our commitment to the people of Kerala goes far beyond providing insurance – we are dedicated to being a pillar of strength for our communities especially in times of crisis. The recent Wayanad landslide has brought unimaginable hardship to many families. Our goal is not just to offer financial aid, but to provide a comprehensive support system that makes a significant difference in people’s lives during this challenging time.”

To achieve this, Star Health Insurance has implemented several key initiatives in the Kerala region, particularly in Wayanad, to streamline the insurance claims process and offer timely support:

§ 24/7 Helplines: Dedicated helplines are established to assist claimants around the clock. For assistance, please contact our 24/7 helpline at 18004252255

§ Special Claim Desk: A special claims desk has been set up at the district level with delegated claims settlement authority to expedite the processing of claims

§ Electronic Claims: Policyholders are encouraged to initiate claims electronically and submit relevant documents online for faster processing

§ Quick Processing: Claims are processed based on just essential documentation and pre-authorization is granted within one hour for over 90% of cases, with a focus on expediting final settlements

Furthermore, Star Health Insurance has introduced specific relaxations for claims arising from the Wayanad landslide disaster:

§ Preliminary Authorization: A significant portion of the claim amount is authorized in advance

§ Enhanced Empathy in Claims Handling: Processing doctors are sensitized to handle claims with the utmost empathy, ensuring that the affected individuals receive the support without stress

§ Anywhere Cashless Facility: Identified private hospitals in the affected area offer cashless treatment, even if they are not part of the Star Health Insurance network

§ Specialist Guidance: Senior medical professionals are available to provide specialist guidance to ensure the best possible care for claimants

§ Help Desks and Nodal Officer: Star Health Insurance has established help desks in key locations for assistance. Dr. Azeez, Joint Vice President, is appointed as the nodal officer for all claims in the Wayanad landslide.

Mobil becomes Performance Sponsor for Indian Racing Festival 2024 edition

New Delhi, August 23, 2024: The Indian Racing Festival (IRF) has onboarded Mobil, a leading name in the world of motor oils, as the Performance Sponsor for the 2024 season. This collaboration will see high performance engine oils of Mobil elevating the fast growing motorsport sector by powering the high-speed cars of the IRF with their advanced lubricants, delivering unmatched performance and reliability as the 6 teams in the Indian Racing League (IRL) and 8 teams in the Formula 4 Indian Championship (F4IC) will be competing against each other.

Powered by Mobil 1 5w – 40, a full synthetic engine oil helps deliver excellent all-round performance to Formula 4 cars. Its triple action power has a track record of providing exceptional cleaning power and wear protection both on and off the track

“Mobil’s exceptional expertise and unwavering dedication to innovation seamlessly align with IRF’s mission to deliver extraordinary racing experiences. By integrating Mobil’s superior lubricants and motor oils, we will ensure that our cars perform at their peak, delivering an exhilarating spectacle for our fans while upholding the highest safety standards throughout the Indian Racing Festival season,” said Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman and Managing Director of Racing Promotions Private Limited (RPPL), promoters of IRF.

Mobil, a flagship brand under the ExxonMobil,has a rich history that celebrates completion of its golden 50 years this year in 2024. Over the last 5 decades, Mobil 1 remains the world’s leading synthetic motor oil brand. It has pushed forward the boundaries of automotive lubricant technology, evolving and improving to keep engines running like new, mile after mile, since 1974.

“We are excited to partner with the Indian Racing Festival, a platform that aligns perfectly with our dedication to innovation and performance. With ExxonMobil’s cutting-edge technology and IRF’s unwavering commitment to the Indian motorsports ecosystem, we are confident that this collaboration will elevate performance on the tracks this season and provide drivers and fans with an outstanding experience. We look forward to fueling the excitement and contributing to the success of this premier event,” said Mr. Vipin Rana, CEO of ExxonMobil Lubricants PVT LTD.

Promoted by RPPL, the Indian Racing Festival aims to captivate India’s growing motorsports fanbase with two premier championships: the franchise-based Indian Racing League (IRL) and the Formula 4 Indian Championship (F4IC). Featuring top drivers including men and women from India and around the world, IRL 2024 begins on August 24, followed by India’s first-ever night street circuit race at the Chennai Formula Racing Circuit a week later.

Tickets for Rounds 1 and 2, the latter being the highly-anticipated night street race, are now available on Paytm Insider and it will also be broadcasted on Star Sports Select 2 and FANCODE .

Orchids The International School hires 200+ IITians for the Academic Team

National, August 23, 2024: Pioneering the education landscape, Orchids The International School, a leading K12 school chain in India today announced the infusion of IIT talent into its schools across the country. This could be the development that will bring change in accelerating further STEM education in India. Recently, Orchids recruited around 200 IITians as teaching faculties to expand its Orchids Career Foundation Programme for the subjects of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics pertaining to grades 6 through 12. These IITians are alumni of leading IITs like IIT Kanpur, IIT Mandi, IIT Bhubaneswar. These IIT teachers shall not only be teaching but guiding the students in personal and professional development relating to the choice of proper careers, research, or entrepreneurship. Combining academic rigor with practical application and inculcating holistic development, Orchids believes these young IIT educators will help lay the foundation for a brighter future of the nation.

The OCFP program at Orchids acts as a catalyst for the gap between lovers and non-lovers of subjects in STEM, and instills life-long interest in learning, unlocking the full potential of every child. The program uniquely offers innovative teaching methods and application-based learning. The faculty engages in various activities and demonstrations, helping the students apply theoretical knowledge in real life. The method allows most students to also succeed in school and pursue effective careers in STEM. Presently, OCFP has close to 100+ faculty members across India. This expansion is a clear sign of the program’s success and the growing need for quality STEM education.

Shlok Srivastava, Head of the Orchids Career Foundation Program, explains: “IIT graduates bring a different dimension to the classroom. The deep-understanding and practicality of these STEM subjects, makes them furnish the students with more comprehensive and nuanced learning of complex subjects. This comes in handy, perhaps now more than ever, in schools, for these teachers equip the students with not just learning the content but also mentoring them toward building a culture of thinking and problem-solving—mentors who build mindsets of rigor, perseverance, and resilience within each student. Their presence is also prompting a transition towards an interactive, student-centered learning environment. IITians will set new standards of quality in education and prepare the next generation of innovators and leaders in the field of science and technology.”

Adding further Shlok, who is also an IIT alumni, said, “”IITians bring that uniqueness in teaching apart from subject knowledge. Their exposure to an intense academic environment with a research-led culture enables them to develop a love for inquiry and exploration of knowledge in the students. As a faculty, IITians can hence bridge the gap between theoretical understandings and practical applications, making STEM learning more engaging and relevant.”

As Orchids The International School continues to grow with the OCFP program, it holds firmly to its holistic approach of raising champions with activities outside of the classroom. This is one such very novel initiative that has enthused the chain of schools to build young talent for bigger platforms of success.

49% of Support Teams Demand Gen AI Self-Serve Platforms for Human-Like Interactions, Kapture CX Survey

As India advances on the global sports stage, a new generation of female athletes is emerging, poised to become the nation’s next sports icons. This exciting transformation is supported by the Anju Bobby Sports Foundation and Anandana- The Coca-Cola India Foundation which are dedicated to nurturing and empowering young talent. Through substantial funding and support, including state-of-the-art facilities for professional training, these athletes are breaking records and inspiring future generations.

Here’s a closer look at five women athletes to watch:  

1. Shaili Singh  

Shaili Singh has been making waves in Indian athletics. In 2018, at just 14 years old, she joined the Junior India Camp in the long jump and began training under Dronacharya Robert Bobby George, supported by the Sports Authority of India and the Anju Bobby Sports Foundation. Shaili holds national records in the U-16 (6.15 m), U-18 (6.48 m), and U-20 (6.76 m) categories. She earned a silver medal at the Junior World Athletics Championships in 2021 and another silver at the Asian Championships in 2023, marking her as a formidable competitor on the international stage.

In October 2023, she achieved a world ranking of 22 but narrowly missed the entry for the Paris Olympics 2024 in the World Ranking quota by just 11 points. Shaili won gold at the Indian Grand Prix in April 2023 with a personal best jump of 6.76 meters—the second-best by an Indian woman. In the same year, she secured a bronze in the World Athletics Seiko Grand Prix held in Yokohama, Japan, and also participated in the Asian Indoor Championships, the Budapest World Athletics Championships, and the Hangzhou Asian Games. In 2024, participated in six World Athletics Continental Tour bronze/international meets, where she secured two silvers and one bronze.

Shaili is poised to carry forward India’s long jump legacy and is expected to break the national record of 6.83 meters set by Anju Bobby George at the Athens Olympics in 2004.

Insta handle: Shaili Singh   

2. Poorva Hitesh Sawant  

Poorva Hitesh Sawant is known for her explosive speed and strength. Her journey began at the age of seven, and since then, she has explored various events, including the long jump and heptathlon, before discovering her passion for the triple jump in 2021. After moving to Bangalore in 2022 to train under the guidance of Robert Bobby George, Poorva’s dedication has led to remarkable achievements. She finished 4th at the Asian Indoor Championship in 2023 with a jump of 13.06 meters, won gold in the National Federation Cup in 2023, and clinched gold at the 3rd Indian Open Jumps Competition and Indian Grand Prix in 2024. With a personal best of 13.31 meters, she is expected to become a strong competitor at the international level.

Insta handle: Poorva Hitesh Swant Anuja   

3. Ravada Kusuma

Ravada Kusuma, a talented long jumper from Andhra Pradesh, has faced her fair share of ups and downs throughout her athletic career, including injuries and fluctuations in performance at national competitions. In 2023, her hard work finally paid off as she won gold in the U-23 National Championship and silver in the All India Inter University Championship. In 2024, she secured gold in the Khelo India University Games, marking a significant turning point in her athletic career. After joining the National Junior Camp in 2017, the support from the Anju Bobby Sports Foundation provided her access to quality coaching, training facilities, and nutrition. With a personal best of 6.14 meters, Kusuma’s immense potential suggests she has yet to achieve her best.

Insta handle: Ravada Kusuma   

4. Namayi Ruchitha  

Namayi Ruchitha is a rising star in athletics, showcasing her talent on the track. In 2022, she won gold at the U-20 National Athletics Championship in the 100-meter hurdles and silver at the Khelo India University Games. In 2023, she secured silver in the Junior National Athletic Championship, and in 2024, she clinched gold again at the Khelo India University Games. With a personal best time of 14.28 seconds in the 100-meter hurdles, Namayi is a versatile and promising athlete to watch in future championships. The support from the foundation has allowed her to concentrate on her training and set ambitious goals, such as breaking the 14-second barrier in her events.

Insta handle: Namayi Ruchitha  

5. Susmita  

Susmita’s journey hasn’t been easy; she has faced numerous challenges but her resolve to overcome these obstacles has been inspiring. Susmita draws strength from her family and her coach, Robert Bobby George, who motivates her to keep pushing forward. Her impressive achievements include earning silver at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships in 2023, gold at the Khelo India Youth Games in 2022, gold in the U20 National Athletic Championship in 2023, and a bronze at both the Indian Grand Prix and the Indian Open Jumps Meet in 2024, with a personal best of 6.28 meters. As she continues to rise, Susmita is emerging as a strong contender for future sports glory in the long jump.

Sterlite Power Named Among India’s Best Workplaces for Millennials 2024 by Great Place to Work India

Mumbai, 23 August 2024: Sterlite Power, a global power transmission infrastructure developer and solutions provider, has been recognized by the prestigious Great Place to Work® India as one of India’s Best WorkplacesTM for Millennials 2024 – Mid-size. This recognition reinforces the company’s commitment to fostering workplaces that epitomize forward-thinking leadership and prioritize the holistic well-being of employees.

In addition to this recent recognition, Sterlite Power has consistently been acknowledged for its outstanding workplace culture. Earlier this year, the company was honoured with multiple awards, including the Most Coveted Employer of Choice, recognition as one of India’s Top 50 Great Mid-Size Workplaces, and the accolade of Best in Industry: Energy, Oil & Gas by Great Place to Work® India. These recognitions underscore Sterlite Power’s ongoing commitment to fostering an exceptional workplace environment.

Commenting on the recognition, Pratik Agarwal, Managing Director, Sterlite Power, said, “It’s an honor to be recognized by Great Place to Work® India as one of the Best Workplaces for Millennials. This accolade solidifies our company’s legacy of care and people-first culture. This recognition reinforces our belief that together, we can cultivate a dynamic workplace that not only attracts top millennial talent but also inspires them to push boundaries and shape the future of energy infrastructure.”

“This certification reflects the collective effort and commitment of our entire workforce. At our core, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where every team member can thrive, innovate and feel valued. This recognition fuels our determination to continue enhancing our workplace practices, investing in employee development and adapting to the evolving needs of our millennial workforce.” said Ruhie Pande, Group-CHRO & Head of Marketing and Communications.

The Great Place to Work® Certification is awarded to organizations delivering exceptional employee experiences and exhibiting exemplary people practices. The assessment is based on the Great Place to Work® model, which evaluates a workplace based on its Trust Index© and Culture Audit© attributes. Based on the assessment by the Great Place to Work® Institute, Sterlite Power scored exceedingly well in areas related to building a purposeful and high-growth organizational culture.

GPTW is globally recognized as an authority in assessing workplace culture. The Institute works with businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in more than 60 countries and has spearheaded exceptional research on the characteristics of great workplaces for over three decades. In India, the institute partners with more than 1,100 organizations annually across over 22 industries to help them build High-Trust, High-Performance Cultures designed to deliver sustained business results.

PCAF Announces StepChange as First Regional Partner to Support the Indian Financial Market

Bengaluru, 23 August 2024: The Partnership for Carbon AccountingFinancials (PCAF) today announces its collaboration with StepChange, one of India’s leading sustainability platforms.

StepChange is the first regional partner in the Global South to be a part of PCAF’s accredited partner program, further strengthening PCAF’s presence in the region. The collaboration aims to bolster the transition to a more sustainable economy, which in turn would support long-term economic resilience, attract global investment, and deepen transparency and accountability.

The announcement represents the latest in a series of significant milestones for StepChange following its dual accreditation from the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the IFRS Foundation – the first company in India to receive such recognition.

Through this strategic collaboration, PCAF and StepChange are strengthening the way financial institutions in the Global South, starting with India, can measure, manage, and report their carbon emissions and climate impact – facilitating the Indian market’s efforts to align with global sustainability goals.

Nagadarsan Suresh, Strategic Partnerships Lead for PCAF stated, “We are delighted to welcome StepChange as an accredited regional partner. The objective of our partner program is to equip solution providers like StepChange with the training and support needed to effectively support the financial sector with GHG accounting. The Indian market is in a very influential position globally and we are thrilled to play a part in supporting the country as it moves ahead in its transition to a more sustainable economy.”

“We are thrilled to be recognized as PCAF’s first regional partner in India and the Global South. This accreditation not only underscores our commitment to sustainability but also enables us to empower financial institutions in the region with the solutions and knowledge needed to navigate their decarbonisation and climate journeys effectively. We are excited to leverage this accreditation to build a more transparent and accountable climate action landscape in India and the Global South” – Ankit Jain, Co-Founder & CEO at StepChange added.

Recognizing the need to support consultancies, software and data providers guiding financial institutions in their efforts towards decarbonization, PCAF has developed an accredited partner program to provide organizations with access to the PCAF Database, as well as important technical assistance in the practical application of the PCAF Standard, among other benefits.

TOTO India Marks 10 Years of Excellence in Gujarat with New Expansion Plans

Gujarat, India – 23rd August 2024 – Celebrating a decade of excellence, TOTO India proudly marks the 10th anniversary of its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Halol, Gujarat. Since its inception in August 2014, the plant has been a cornerstone of TOTO’s vision for the Indian market, embodying commitment, innovation, quality, and sustainability.

The TOTO India Halol plant produces products that adhere to Japanese quality standards and has significantly contributed to the company’s growth, with output increasing by 400% since 2014 while maintaining high-quality production standards. Employing nearly 1,200 workers, 80% of whom are from the local community, the plant exemplifies the brand’s commitment to regional development and employment.

“India is a strategic market for TOTO, and we are excited about its immense growth potential,” said Mr. Shiozawa Kazuyuki, Managing Director, TOTO India Industries Pvt. Ltd. “The increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness of hygiene and wellness are driving the demand for premium bathroom solutions. We aim to strengthen our foothold in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities by expanding our dealer network and introducing a wider range of products to cater to diverse consumer preferences.” The event showcased product innovations and growth trajectory, highlighting the company’s dedication to the Indian market and its work with the local economy.

TOTO India plans to enhance its regional presence and strengthen its dealership network through its Authorized Channel Partner (ACP) and Authorized Channel Dealer (ACD) programs. This strategy aims to expand the brand’s footprint in India, ensuring better accessibility and availability of its high-quality products nationwide. By increasing market penetration, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, TOTO seeks to bring its innovative and sustainable sanitary ware solutions to a broader audience.

With plans to launch a new range of products, TOTO aims to meet the dynamic needs of Indian consumers, further solidifying its presence in the market. Additionally, the brand is set to launch a new collection of toilets, basins, faucets, showers and designed to meet the evolving tastes of Indian consumers. By combining its manufacturing prowess, innovative product portfolio, and expanded dealer network, TOTO aims to become the preferred choice for premium bathroom solutions in India.