Author: Rabindra

IKEA India Makes Bold Leap Towards Sustainability with 100% EV Deliveries across Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune

India, 20th August 2024 – IKEA, one of the world’s most trusted home furnishings brand and an advocate of sustainable business, clocked its first big milestone in India with 100% EV-powered deliveries across Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune. Its Mumbai operations will soon join this wagon, and the company will enter all new markets with an EV-first approach; starting with Delhi NCR. IKEA is also piloting same day delivery in its birth city of Hyderabad and plans to scale it across all its markets in the coming year.

This milestone demonstrates IKEA India’s steadfast commitment to a sustainable value chain. From commercial exploration of EV solutions in 2019, to achieving 28% green deliveries in 2023 and 88% EV adoption rate now, the company is making significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint nationwide. Through these efforts, IKEA India continues to set a new standard for environmentally responsible operations, paving the way for a greener future. IKEA is leading India’s EV transition by co-creating a robust EV ecosystem in India; an essential to reduce carbon emissions and driving climate control. To scale its network transformation, IKEA has partnered with local original equipment manufacturers in India, including small and medium-sized businesses and startups, to develop innovative mobility solutions. These efforts are helping to create a robust local economy, driving job creation, and empowering small businesses to thrive alongside global industry leaders.

Susanne Pulverer, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer, IKEA India said, “For IKEA, a sustainable value chain is an essential part of our growth journey. This is just the first of the many milestones in that effort and we are proud to lead the EV journey from our foundational years in India. We strongly believe that profit and planet can be co-created and will continue to lead with this mindset.”

IKEA India’s transition to 100% electric last-mile delivery is a groundbreaking step towards a sustainable and safe future. The journey towards zero-emission began in 2019 when IKEA introduced electric vehicles into its delivery fleet. Initially, the store deployed 3-wheeled tuk-tuks delivering thousands of orders a month. To accommodate larger furniture deliveries, the company also incorporated retrofit trucks into its operations and established in-house infrastructure for charging these electric vehicles. By championing EV adoption at scale, IKEA India aims to inspire a larger ecosystem including manufacturers, partners, delivery drivers, and green energy infrastructure planning for all.

Commenting on the development, Saiba Suri, Country Customer Fulfilment Manager, IKEA India said, “Our approach to sustainable logistics at IKEA India goes beyond adopting EVs—we are focused on building an efficient infrastructure, skill building initiatives and future opportunities for all in the value chain. As we grow in India with an EV first approach, IKEA India is now more prepared to address the challenges related to it and committed to investing in long-term, innovative solutions. We’re truly grateful for partners who share this vision with us. As we enter new markets, our priority is to ensure they are equipped for this change, laying the groundwork for the future of our supply chain.”

As a key player in decarbonization, IKEA is expanding charging stations for large EVs in India to make the adoption of EVs more accessible and efficient. The company has also installed EV charging stations across all its large-format stores for delivery vans, customers, and co-workers. The brand’s diverse EV fleet, supported by advanced inbuilt Telematics technology, handles load from 680kg to 1700kg. By integrating these advancements, IKEA is setting a benchmark in the industry while maintaining 100% compliance with government regulations.

The company aims to achieve 100% EV deliveries by 2025 across all its operations, advancing large-scale EV fleet, driving continuous innovation and collaborating with the government. Globally, KEA aims to become climate positive and halve greenhouse emission across the value chain by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050.

Gaurs Group & its Cricket Team, Gorakhpur Lions Organise UPT20 Cricket League to help Cancer Patients

Delhi NCR: Gaurs Group and its cricket team, Gorakhpur Lions, organised a charity match to support cancer patients. The event featured an exciting match between Gaurs Group’s owned Gorakhpur Lions and Meerut Mavericks, two leading teams from the UPT20 Cricket League. Rs 36 lakhs raised from the match was donated to Yashoda Hospital for the treatment of cancer patients. It was held at Gaur City Stadium in Greater Noida West.

Manoj Gaur, CMD of Gaurs Group, stated, “This match is our effort to help cancer patients and raise awareness among people. Gaurs Group is deeply committed to community welfare, and this match reflects our dedication to promoting health through sports. By organising such tournaments, we also want to highlight the significance of fostering talent through local sports leagues and community engagement. Our team, Gorakhpur Lions, is an important part of UPT20 Cricket League.”

Apart from the Gaurs Group’s CMD, Manoj Gaur, those cheering the players included Rajeev Shukla, Vice President of BCCI, DS Chauhan, Chairman of UP Cricket Association (UPCA), Rajesh Dubey, Owner of Meerut Mavericks, and Dr. P.N. Arora, Chairman of Yashoda Hospital.

Addressing the gathering, Rajeev Shukla spoke about the role of leagues like the UPT20 Cricket League in promoting local talent, highlighting players like Rinku Singh, Dhruv Jurel, Ankit Rajput, and Yash Dayal as examples. On his part, Dr. P.N. Arora, Chairman of Yashoda Hospital, announced a donation of Rs 11 Lacs for the treatment of cancer patients.

Gaurs Group, erstwhile Gaursons India, foray into UPT20 is led by its energetic Director, Veshesh Gaur, who was also the main force behind this charity match.

During the match, Meerut Mavericks captain Rinku Singh won the toss and opted to bowl first. Gorakhpur Lions’ opening batsman, Dhruv Jurel, set the tone with a four and a six in the fourth over, though he was caught behind for 20 runs on the next delivery. Aryan Juyal was the standout performer for Gorakhpur, scoring 68 runs and guiding his team to 155 runs in 20 overs. For the Mavericks, Divyansh took two wickets, with Vishal, Yogendra, and Vijay each contributing one.

Chasing the target, Meerut Mavericks started confidently. Ankit Rajput struck the first blow for Gorakhpur by dismissing Swastik for 16 runs. Akshay Dubey followed soon after dismissed for 18 runs. Despite this, the solid partnership between Madhav Kaushik (41) and Rituraj Sharma (73) steered the Meerut Mavericks to a commanding 8-wicket win. Rituraj Sharma was adjudged the Man of the Match, while Aryan Juyal was awarded for his outstanding batting.

The Open Couple’ Returns After 7 Years at Veda Kunba Theatre, Presented by Paytm Insider and Bhasha Centre

Mumbai, August 2024: Paytm Insider presents a satirical rom-com play, Dario Fo’s ‘The Open Couple’, as part of its co-producing initiative—‘Manch’ with Bhasha Centre. The play makes a comeback after 7 years at the spacious auditorium, Veda Kunba Theatre Mumbai, opening with two shows on September 1, 2024.

‘The Open Couple’, is a play by Italian playwrights Dario Fo and Franca Rame, which explores the intricacies and complexities of modern-day relationships. Antonia, after years of coping with her husband, decides that they should become an “open couple”. However, the decision delivers nothing short of a madcap masquerade and a roller-coaster ride of emotions, making their new normal tickle the audience’s funny bones.

In today’s world of blurring boundaries in relationships and the modern dating scene, the play poignantly points to the changing dynamics of a couple in love, but the flame is flickering. It maneuvers through the themes of trust, communication, and the complexities of love from the lenses of a lovelorn couple.

The play is brought to you by La Compagnie Dramatique with Faraz Khan, a LAMDA graduate actor and director, donning the director’s hat. Ragini Rowchowdury is the creative producer of the play. La Compagnie Dramatique invites audiences to witness the unraveling of a tumultuous journey through rapid-fire dialogue and incalculable turns. It is a fascinating tale of a couple played by ace actors Vaishali Bisht and Gaurav Sajjanhar, a new addition to the cast, who infuse raw emotionality into the play. The stage is set for a renewed look at contemporary relationships against the backdrop of societal expectations and gender roles.

Chandak Group Receives ‘Transformation Excellence Award’ for Redevelopment in Mumbai’s Western Suburbs

Mumbai, August 20, 2024: Chandak Group, a prominent Mumbai-based real estate developer with over 35 years of industry expertise, has been honoured at the Times Redevelopment Awards 2024 for ‘Transformation Excellence Western Suburbs’. This prestigious accolade highlights the Group’s significant contributions to reshaping Mumbai’s real estate landscape through innovative redevelopment projects.

Chandak Group’s portfolio boasts an impressive array of 10 ongoing projects, with over 12 million square feet of developed space they have enriched the lives of over 10,000 families, offering them enhanced lifestyles in well-planned, modern communities. Noteworthy projects include Chandak Highscape City, Chandak Treesourus, Cornerstone, Chandak Nishchay, Chandak GreenAiry, and 34 Park Estate, strategically located in vibrant areas such as Chembur (E), Malad (W), Worli, Dahisar (E), Borivali (E) and Goregaon (W).

Chandak Group’s comprehensive portfolio spans residential, retail, and commercial developments, catering to a diverse clientele. Some of their areas of focus are Society Redevelopment along with Slum Redevelopment Scheme (SRA), a collaborative urban initiative where government and private developers join forces to transform slum areas into well-constructed, organized housing projects. This initiative provides former slum dwellers with dignified, healthier living conditions.

As Mumbai continues to grow, the importance of redevelopment initiatives is an attempt to rejuvenate aging neighbourhoods, ensuring enhanced safety, better living conditions, and modern amenities. For existing residents, this means a substantial improvement in quality of life. For new homeowners, it presents a unique opportunity to embrace a modern lifestyle and invest in rapidly appreciating assets. It also ensures that there is a shift in the way redevelopment projects are perceived, since there is a dearth of fresh land parcels in cities like Mumbai, the only way forward is by redevelopment. Having realised this potential some top builders are constructing uber luxury projects in coveted localities in Mumbai like Tardeo, Worli and Bandra.

Chandak Group’s approach to redevelopment transcends traditional practices. Their focus is not merely on constructing new homes but on fostering harmonious and thriving communities. The meticulous planning, design, and quality of their projects reflect a deep commitment to the well-being of both new and existing residents.

In the dynamic Mumbai real estate market, developers like Chandak Group are not just creating properties—they are spearheading visionary transformations that align with the aspirations of modern Mumbaikars for exceptional living spaces.

F5 Strengthens Leadership in Multicloud Networking with Expanded Technology Partnerships and Customer Success

BENGALURU, AUGUST 20, 2024 – F5, the global leader in multi-cloud application security and delivery, today announced expanded technology partnerships and customer win milestones that reinforce its position as a leader in multi-cloud networking. According to IDC, the multi-cloud networking market is rapidly expanding and is expected to reach $10.16 billion in 2028.

As a pioneer in multi-cloud application security and delivery, F5’s solutions help customers solve the unique complexity challenges inherent in securely connecting applications and APIs across hybrid multi-cloud environments. To help solve this challenge, F5 Distributed Cloud Services offer infrastructure-agnostic solutions that reduce the complexity of networking across data centers, clouds, and the edge while enabling consistent app security policy and enforcement, regardless of where the apps are hosted.

According to F5’s 2024 State of Application Strategy Report, the demand for multi-cloud networking strategies has grown significantly—with nearly 90% of enterprises deploying apps and APIs across a mix of on-premises and cloud or edge environments. The report highlights significant challenges faced by today’s enterprises as they manage apps across multiple infrastructure environments. More than one-third of respondents (38%, nearly double the 2023 figure) operate apps across six or more different environments.

“Modern enterprises today must manage a multitude of disparate applications, all hosted on multiple clouds and on-premises environments. The realities of today’s hybrid multi-cloud infrastructures mandate that applications must be stitched together to deliver secure, fast, and reliable digital experiences,” said Arul Elumalai, Senior Vice President and General Manager of distributed Cloud Platform and Security Services at F5. “With multi-cloud comes significant complexity, cost, and security risks, as applications become increasingly distributed. F5’s secure multi-cloud networking capabilities abstract this complexity to connect and protect these distributed applications, without having to pay attention to the cloud or infrastructure on which they run.”

“Indian businesses are rapidly adopting hybrid/multi-cloud technologies to modernize and accelerate revenue. However, this has heightened security challenges due to sophisticated cyber threats, increasing demand for enhanced cloud security. According to Gartner, security and risk management spending in India is expected to grow by 12% year-on-year in 2024. Businesses are looking for security solutions that are designed to secure their applications, irrespective of where they are deployed in the multi-cloud environment,” said Pratik Shah, Managing Director of India and SAARC, F5. “At F5, we understand these challenges and are expanding our partnerships with NetApp, Red Hat, Console Connect, and others to provide innovative solutions that simplify the complexities of securely connecting applications across hybrid environments.”

F5 Introduces Technology Partnerships to Help Enterprises Tackle Multicloud Networking Challenges

F5 has developed partnerships with key technology leaders to extend the capabilities of its multi-cloud networking solutions and address a broader set of customer challenges.

NetApp

F5 is collaborating with NetApp, a global leader in data storage solutions, to provide enterprises with robust, secure, and agile data mobility capabilities, enhancing hybrid cloud ROI and reducing IT overhead. NetApp, with over three decades of expertise, and trusted by more than 10,000 customers globally, continues to innovate in the cloud era, offering unified data storage for any data type, workload, or application.

NetApp Blue XP provides a cloud-native unified management experience for storage and data services across multi-cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments. Blue XP integrates on-site storage with the public cloud of a customer’s choice, keeping data secure and always available while optimizing cost and performance. F5’s Distributed Cloud Services deliver a secure MCN solution for Blue XP users that enables safe, easy, and simplified operations of connecting NetApp storage on-premises and Cloud Volumes ONTAP (NetApp’s cloud-based data management service) in the cloud. Data mobility achieved by NetApp and F5 simplifies disaster recovery processes and promotes data as a strategic asset. This partnership empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of multi-cloud environments with confidence.

Red Hat

F5 has enhanced its collaboration with Red Hat to simplify the migration and management of cloud workloads using Red Hat OpenShift Service on AWS (ROSA). By enabling integration for F5 Distributed Cloud Services with ROSA, customers can connect and manage hybrid cloud environments with improved security capabilities, reduced complexity, and lower costs. This collaboration leverages F5 Distributed Cloud App Connect to provide more seamless app-to-app communication and security-optimized workload migration, delivering greater consistency, security, and visibility.

Console Connect

F5 is also introducing its collaboration with Console Connect, a premier Network as a Service (NaaS) provider. This partnership integrates Console Connect with F5 across multiple Points of Presence (PoPs), extending F5’s global backbone and reinforcing its multi-cloud networking solutions. Underpinned by a Tier 1 IP network that is ranked in the top 10 globally, Console Connect brings significant network reach, enabling secure and efficient data movement across cloud environments.

Together, F5 and Console Connect enhance multi-cloud connectivity and security by removing the need to rely on the public internet, resulting in private and secure connectivity across clouds. Through this partnership, customers benefit from F5 Distributed Cloud Services such as DDoS Protection on Console Connect’s global network for public-facing applications in addition to seamless deployment of customer edge (CE) software capabilities for Network Auto-Discovery, Cloud Orchestration, Distributed Application and API Security, and more.

Proven Customer Success with F5 Distributed Cloud Secure Multicloud Networking Solutions

Organizations are harnessing the multicloud networking capabilities of F5 Distributed Cloud Services to enhance their app and API security, performance, and management. Here are four standout case study snapshots that showcase how customers have transformed their operations with F5:

· Ailos Cooperative, a financial services provider, implemented F5 solutions such as F5 Distributed Cloud Network Connect to connect its app portfolio between multiple public clouds and its proprietary data centers. F5 enabled Ailos to fortify its app and API security, ensuring consistent protection and high performance across various cloud platforms. F5 provided comprehensive traffic management, robust security measures, and streamlined compliance, which helped Ailos manage its multicloud infrastructure efficiently. As a result, Ailos could focus on delivering reliable digital experiences to customers, who could be confident in the security and performance of their applications.

· Grupo Élève, an educational technology provider, needed to overcome the complexity of delivering a first-class student experience from its multicloud environment. A secure multicloud networking solution centered on F5 Distributed Cloud Services ensured seamless integration and fortified security to streamline traffic management and enhance application protection across different cloud platforms. This resulted in a unified approach to compliance and performance that reduced complexity while reducing admin workloads by 90%.

· McGraw Hill, a leading educational content provider, aimed to streamline its multicloud management and enhance security. By adopting F5 Distributed Cloud Services, McGraw Hill simplified its infrastructure and management while delivering consistent app-level security across various cloud platforms. F5 simplified the company’s ability to deploy and scale apps across disparate cloud environments, while providing robust traffic management, fortified application protection, and ensured compliance.

· The Scottish Government needed a streamlined approach to connect clouds, services, apps, and APIs with consistent visibility and security across assets. With F5 Distributed Cloud Services, the Scottish Government has created a single administration model across cloud environments where they can keep policies consistent on an ongoing basis, while eliminating multiple dashboards. F5 multicloud networking solutions facilitated a seamless transition to a multicloud infrastructure, allowing the organization to leverage future cloud innovations while ensuring operational security and efficiency.

Preparing for an Elderly Nation: India’s Readiness for a 347 Mn Senior Citizen Population by 2050

Bangalore, India – August 20, 2024: By 2050, one in every five Indians will be a senior citizen, translating to a whopping 347 million senior citizens over the next 25 years. In an interaction on the “What India Needs” podcast, hosted by Shutapa Paul, Rajinish Menon, Founder and CEO of Sukino Healthcare Solutions, shared his insights on this staggering demographic shift. This shift prompts an urgent question: How prepared are we as a nation to address the challenges and opportunities this brings?

“India is a quick-learning country and has begun to understand the impending challenges faced by the elderly. We anticipate a 40% decadal growth in the elderly population. This demographic shift is significant, with the number of people over 80 expected to equal those aged 0-15. Are we ready? The answer is no, but we are mentally preparing and gearing up for the change,” he said.

“The machinery is working towards addressing this shift. The government has shown focus, and private players are actively promoting good health among elders. CSR activities from corporates are playing a crucial role in this transition, and we see promising initiatives in urban areas being replicated in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities,” he added.

Menon identified several pressing challenges faced by senior citizens in India, including financial security, infrastructure, and healthcare.

Shutapa Paul also raised concerns about the isolation and loneliness that many seniors experience. Highlighting the growing safety concerns, she pointed out the increasing percentage of crimes against seniors, including elder abuse by family members. “We see a growing percentage of crimes against senior citizens, whether physical, mental, or cybercrime. The numbers are huge and shocking. As per reports, almost 35% of senior citizens face abuse from their sons and 21% from their daughters-in-law,” she said. In response, Menon stressed the need for awareness and self-protection among elders.

The insightful discussion also touched upon India’s home healthcare market that is expected to be worth $21.3 billion by 2027, up from $6.2 billion in 2020, according to a 2021 NITI Aayog report. Factors driving this growth include the increasing demand for better quality postoperative and primary care, advancements in technology, rising disposable incomes, and the shift from communicable to lifestyle diseases.

Addressing the state of home healthcare in India, Menon said, “Home care has great potential and is a resource-augmented model, especially where business is concerned. The infrastructure is developing, but there are significant challenges. Home care is currently in a nascent stage, often relying on labour from less developed states, who are trained briefly and then deployed. This model will evolve as society becomes more accepting and technology progresses. Home care is essentially the last-mile delivery of healthcare.”

“Adequate compensation is necessary for good home healthcare services. There are affordable options available, but consumers must understand the minimum requirements for quality care. It is a combination of proper training, technology, and consumer awareness that will improve home healthcare. Sukino is committed to playing a pivotal role in this transformation, providing multidisciplinary out-of-hospital inpatient recuperative, rehabilitative, and palliative care that feels like home, ensuring that the elderly can age with dignity and receive the care they deserve,” he said.

Elaborating on Sukino’s growth plan, Menon highlights that the company will not only expand its geographical presence across various cities in India but will also explore new models of care. This includes areas such as oncology, ambulatory care, and other advanced healthcare services beyond traditional home and continuum care. Menon states, “Our focus is not only on organic growth but also on exploring strategic opportunities for inorganic expansion. We see significant potential in collaborating with promising startups and technology providers that align with our vision for advanced healthcare solutions. Our technology adoption strategy is centered on integrating meaningful advancements to enhance patient care and streamline processes. We aim to leverage technology as an enabler to deliver practical and impactful healthcare solutions.”

As India prepares for this “Silver Tsunami”, creating a supportive and secure environment for our senior citizens must be a national priority. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort from the government, private sector, and society at large.

Croma’s Past Tech Present; Film Series for India’s 78th Independence Day Highlights Legacy of Today’s Tech

National, August 20, 2024: As India celebrated its 78th Independence Day, Croma marked the occasion with a unique video campaign that took viewers on a nostalgic journey through India’s technological evolution. Released on the “Unboxed by Croma” channel on YouTube, the four-episode “Past Tech Present” film series beautifully draws out the enduring charm of vintage electronics that have become a cherished part of our history even as we are surrounded by cutting-edge electronics today.

“Past Tech Present” celebrates passion and craftsmanship through stories that symbolise the soul of India’s progress through 77 years of independence. While modern advances continue to shape our daily lives, the heartfelt stories remind us of the simple yet powerful connections we have with devices that once defined entire eras. On this Independence Day, the series acknowledges India’s journey towards the future while embracing the deep-rooted heritage that continues to influence our relationship with technology.

The films showcase four individuals from different parts of India, each preserving a piece of history through their commitment to vintage electronics. From the crackling sounds of a vinyl record to the ticking of a classic wristwatch and from the click of an analogue camera to the static of a vintage radio, the series captures the essence of a bygone era, evoking nostalgia while highlighting the spirit of resilience and continuity.

Episode 1 takes us to Hyderabad, where Mahboob Radio, a historic radio service center founded in 1928, continues to operate even as digital technology dominates the airwaves. Run by Mohammad Mooinuddin Saheb, the store was once a hub of activity with people gathering to listen to the latest news, music, and programs. Despite the passage of time, Mahboob Radio remains a cherished part of the community. Croma proudly salutes Moinuddin’s dedication to preserving a legacy that spans generations.

In Episode 2, the series introduces us to Shaik Mehmood, a vintage watch restorer based in Bengaluru. His shop in Indiranagar is a haven for watch enthusiasts, filled with timepieces that hold sentimental value for their owners. In a world of digital convenience, Mehmood’s unwavering dedication to the art of watch restoration attests to the importance of preserving traditional crafts. Croma honours Mehmood’s commitment to passing on his knowledge to the next generation through a planned YouTube channel, ensuring that the art of vintage watch restoration lives on.

Kolkata’s love affair with music takes centre stage in Episode 3, featuring Munna’s vinyl record store. Operating since the late 1970s, Munna’s shop has been a gathering place for those who appreciate the warmth and depth of analogue sound. Despite the rise of digital music, the store remains a sanctuary for those who seek out vinyl records and cherish the nostalgia they evoke. On this Independence Day, Croma celebrates Munna’s role in preserving the city’s rich musical heritage.

The final episode brings us to Lucknow, where Ravi Kapoor’s photography studio is a treasure trove of memories captured on film. His collection of over a thousand cameras bear witness to the evolution of the technology of photography. Kapoor’s love for photography has grown over the decades, documenting Lucknow’s cultural vibrancy and the everyday lives of its people. Croma acknowledges Kapoor’s dedication to preserving the soul of photography, even as digital technology has taken over the creation of images.

In a world where Independence Day campaigns often focus on patriotic themes, Croma’s “Past Tech Present” boldly takes a refreshing approach that pays tribute to our past and links it to the present. The series taps into the deep emotional connections people have with technology from the past while celebrating the innovations that continue to shape the future. Through a spotlight on vintage electronics, gadgets, and the people who are passionate about them, the campaign offers a unique perspective on India’s journey toward progress. It reminds us that while technology may evolve, the memories and experiences it creates remain timeless.

Mr. Shibashish Roy, Deputy CEO of Croma Infiniti-Retail Ltd, spoke about the thought behind the series, “Technology has always been at the heart of progress. It is important to remember that the gadgets and electronics we enjoy today are a result of decades of innovation, passion, and dedication. ‘Past Tech Present’ is our way of saluting those who are preserving the art and soul of a bygone era for our generation. And in doing so, are inspiring us at Croma to build an authentic, thoughtful, and connected future.”

Through “Past Tech Present”, Croma invites consumers to take a step back and appreciate the foundations on which modern technology has grown. This Independence Day, the film series reminds us that craftsmanship driven by passion has an enduring legacy that bridges the past with the present in the ever-progressing world of electronics.