Author: Rabindra

FLO Hyderabad launches ‘Centre of Excellence for Training Women Vegetable Farming

Hyderabad, 1st June 2024 ….. FLO Hyderabad launches ‘Centre of Excellence for Training Women Vegetable Farming’ in the city outskirts at Ravalkole Village, Medchal Dist. FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) Hyderabad and East-West Seed Knowledge Transfer Foundation inked an MoU on Wednesday to train 100 women farmers in commercial vegetable farming. They will be trained in cultivating, managing, and harvesting nearly 50 hybrid varieties of vegetables and greens.

Over the next three crop seasons, the FLO Hyderabad Centre of Excellence will train 100 women farmers in the art and science of efficient, profitable, and sustainable vegetable farming. They will be trained in the cultivation, management, and harvesting of nearly 50 different hybrid varieties of vegetables and greens, including Bitter gourd, Chilli, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Ridge gourd, Bottle gourd, Cucumber, Pumpkin, Red Sorrel, okra, Onion and many more.

These women will not only learn the skills necessary to thrive in agriculture but will also be equipped to become trainers themselves, spreading their knowledge and expertise to others in their communities and creating an unbroken chain of self-sufficiency.

The women farmers will be taught advanced techniques to enhance crop diversity, increase productivity, and ensure water efficiency. These sustainable farming practices will also benefit the environment, promoting a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.

Apart from skill-building in farming, FLO will also focus on the development of entrepreneurial skills amongst the 100 women farmers. Through digital and financial literacy classes, they will learn the skills needed to manage and grow their agricultural ventures effectively. This knowledge will empower them to take control of their financial futures and build sustainable businesses.

The women farmers will also get crucial health and nutrition advice, and health checks so that they and their families – especially female members – can access a healthier and better quality of life.

Agriculture, the backbone of our nation, plays a vital role in ensuring food security and driving economic growth. By introducing better farming techniques, we can significantly enhance productivity, ensure sustainability, and improve the quality of life for women farmers.

This pioneering year-long agriculture initiative, actualised with the scientific collaboration of East-West Seed Knowledge Transfer Foundation marks a significant step towards FLO Hyderabad’s endeavour to build capacities of women at the grassroots.

“Resilient Roots, our Agriculture Initiative for the year 2024-25, aligns perfectly with FLO’s mission of ‘The Power to Empower.’ We believe that by empowering women in agriculture, we are not only creating avenues for financial agency among them but also addressing gender disparity by fostering inclusive growth and development. Social impact initiatives at the grassroots not only transform individual lives but also contribute to the broader socio-economic development of our communities.

We are glad to collaborate with Dutch MNC East-West Seed for this initiative. East-West Seed Knowledge Transfer Foundation (EWS-KT) launched programs in India in 2016, and has since trained more than 80,000 smallholder farmers in advanced vegetable techniques to improve their livelihoods in 5 States across India (Odisha, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka). It is our privilege to launch their Telangana program through FLO Hyderabad” said Priya Gazdar, Chairperson, FLO Hyderabad.

“I envision that this Centre of Excellence becomes more than just a training facility – it has the potential to become a beacon of hope, a gateway of opportunity, and a pillar of progress. And stand as a testament to what can be achieved when organisations together with a shared vision of inclusivity and empowerment. Together, we are planting the seeds for a brighter, more equitable future in farming”, Priya Gazdar, Chairperson, FLO Hyderabad added.

News18’s Mega Exit Poll results to be unveiled at 5 PM on June 1

New Delhi | 1st June 2024: News18 Network is set to unveil the results of its ‘Mega Exit Poll’ on 1st June, covering 518 Lok Sabha constituencies across 21 major states.

News18’s Exit poll goes live on June 1, at 5 pm, offering the most accurate projections of the likely outcomes of General Elections 2024. Featuring a vast sample size, News18 Mega Exit Poll covers 95% of Lok Sabha seats, making it one of India’s most extensive surveys.

With a structured questionnaire translated into 11 regional languages, the survey used mixed methodology for News18 Mega Exit poll. Unlike traditional exit polls conducted immediately after voters cast their votes, this survey was conducted the day after polling. This approach was chosen for its ability to yield more reliable responses. The ‘day after’ interviews were done from Phase 1 to 6 and the traditional exit poll took place during the last Phase 7. Fieldwork for the survey was carried out by ten different fieldwork agencies with strict quality control measures in place.

The results of the News18 Mega Exit Poll will be covered extensively across all News18 network channels including News18 India, CNN-News18, and News18’s regional channels. The results will also feature on News18’s websites in various languages, ensuring wide-reaching and inclusive coverage of the landmark survey.

Medtronic appoints Mandeep Singh Kumar as the Vice President of Medtronic India

Bengaluru, 1st June 2024: India Medtronic Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Medtronic plc today announced the appointment of Mandeep Singh Kumar as the new Vice President and Managing Director of India Medtronic Pvt. Ltd., beginning May 2024. He succeeds Michael Blackwell who has moved back to the US to pursue new opportunities. Assuming this position, he will oversee sales, marketing, and commercial operations for Medtronic’s business in India.

Mandeep Singh Kumar has extensive experience spanning over 25 years and has demonstrated agile leadership in driving successful growth and business transformations across healthcare, pharmaceutical, and med-tech sectors. His expertise includes strategy development, ensuring successful execution, driving commercial excellence, and building winning teams across the globe. Mandeep’s previous role was as Country Leader with Intuitive India where he led the development and implementation of plans to broaden patient access, build a holistic ecosystem for robotic-assisted surgery, and drive successful customer robotic programs.

Speaking on the announcement, Feng Dong, Vice President, Asia Region-led Markets, Medtronic, said “Mandeep is a successful leader and has steered businesses towards growth in his previous stints. His proven leadership and great understanding of the Indian healthcare landscape will help us in indigenizing complex innovations, forging meaningful partnerships and continuing to make an impact on healthcare delivery in India. We are confident that his strategic acumen will elevate our collective journey towards advancing healthcare access in India.”

“It gives me immense pleasure to commence a new journey with Mdtronic, a company that is globally renowned for transforming healthcare. Medtronic’s unwavering commitment to alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending lives resonates deeply with me, and I am elated to join the team in keeping the mission alive in India. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, and I am looking forward to collaborating with our talented teams, engaging with our customers and partners, and driving greater milestones in India’s healthcare sector,” said Mandeep Singh Kumar.

TiE Bangalore Announces the 9th Matrix Global Summit: Highlighting India’s GenAI and DeepTech Innovations

1st June 2024 Matrix Forum of The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), Bangalore, announces the 9th edition of its flagship event, the Matrix Global Summit, scheduled on June 6-7, 2024, at the Bangalore International Centre, with the theme, Deeptech – the Future Beckons.

Established in 2014, the Matrix Forum is a leading advocate of innovation and collaboration in Deeptech and Frontier-tech. With over a decade of technology advocacy, it boasts 3000+ Deeptech startups, 10+ Special Interest Groups (SIG), and a large community of 30,000+ practitioners. The Matrix Forum has emerged as a hub for startups, technology leaders, practitioners, investors, and ecosystem enablers, providing a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, investments, partnerships, M&A & fostering growth of the Deeptech sector in India.

TiE Matrix Forum is curating and organizing the 9th edition of its annual Matrix Global Summit, the flagship event that brings together the brightest minds in technology to discuss and explore the latest trends, advancements, and disruptions in the industry. With a focus on content, learning, and discussions of emerging technologies and scaling up its applications, the summit has grown in stature over the last decade, attracting a global audience and featuring esteemed speakers and experts from various fields. This prestigious international conference and workshop will spotlight cutting-edge innovations from India in the realm of DeepTech and related domains.

“This year’s Matrix Global Summit is set to be a landmark event, reflecting the dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape of DeepTech in India,” said TR Anand, Chair, Matrix Forum and Board Member of TiE Bangalore. “We are proud to showcase the talent and innovation emerging from India and provide a platform for meaningful discussions and collaborations.”

Keynotes: Deeptech – the Future Beckons

“AI for the World in the Context of India as a Product Nation”. Dr.Ajai Chowdhry, Co-Founder HCL and Chairman, EPIC Foundation

“Building Intelligent IT Infrastructure for AI”, Phani Srikanth, Principal Applied Scientist, NetApp.

“Approaches to thrive during the GenAI Cambrian period – From Super Models to Foundation Model Systems” by Suparna Bhattacharya, Fellow, AI Research Lab, Hewlett Packard Labs

“The Future of Blockchain: Navigating the Cycles of Centralization and Decentralization”, Dr. Nikhil Varma, Tech Lead, Algorand Foundation India

“Deep Tech – The Future Beckons” – Theme Address by Arvind Tiwary, Futurist and Chair Emeritus, Matrix Forum

#YouHeardItFirst at Matrix Global Summit: Major announcements at the conference

IIITB – Deeptech Incubator Launch in partnership with TiE Matrix Forum.

Faculty Development Programmes: “Next-Gen Educators: Mastering Blockchain with Algorand”

Major announcement by GenAi-based Sales companion startup, Clodura.ai

GenAI: Peeling the layers and understanding the future!

Desi LLM (Panel), multi-language Indic LLMs

GenAI in Action – Journeys across multiple market verticals

Evaluating GenAI Models (How good are they?)

AI hardware and silicon landscape and India’s Play!

Introduction to Hanooman LLM for Developer Enterprise users

AI in EdTech

Develop a lite app using an LLM-driven recommendation with hyperlocal data for food ordering

Matrix Startup Awards 2024:

Matrix Global Summit is celebrating 10 years of the Matrix Forum (erstwhile IoTForum) and inviting innovative startups to showcase brilliance in Innovation and Growth and win big. Over the past 9 years, Matrix Forum has instituted the Matrix Awards to identify, recognize and boost startups even before they became well known; like Ather Energy (award given in 2015). Join us to witness the next wave of DeepTech startups that are being groomed in India! On this occasion, we will also be joined by some of the past Matrix Award winners.

Building India’s Future Together:

Knitting together a Robust Deeptech Ecosystem – by academic, corporate and global incubators

Master Class for Start-Ups in Electronics and IoT

Industrial Sustainability: Cleaner Manufacturing as India flexes the manufacturing muscle

• Sustainability: Decarbonisation in heavy industries
• Data-driven manufacturing for sustainability

Agritech: Precision agriculture and supply chain efficiencies

• Overview of Precision Technologies in Agriculture, Sustainable farming, and protected/indoor cultivation
• Supporting the Agri Value Chain with ONDC

Blockchain:

• Precision in Supply Chain: Manufacturing and Mass Traceability with Blockchain

Workshops :

• Robotics Workshop: Comprehensive dive into NVIDIA robotics technologies
• Reimagining Business Models with Blockchain: A Sector-Based Ideation Workshop

Develop a lite app using a LLM driven recommendation with hyperlocal data for food ordering with Karon

TiE Matrix Global Summit is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the future of technology and innovation. It offers unparalleled networking opportunities and the chance to engage with the leading minds in industry and research.

MAGGI inspires change with first-of-its-kind edible fork

Bengaluru, 1st June 2024: MAGGI’s ‘Desh ke liye 2-minute’ initiative, launched in 2020, aims to create a significant impact through small actions. One of its goals is to offer sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic. In line with this objective, MAGGI has introduced an edible fork in partnership with Nestlé R&D India (a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A and a part of Nestlé’s global R&D network) and an Indian start-up Trishula. Made from wheat flour, this innovative fork enhances the delightful experience of savoring MAGGI Cuppa Noodles, adding to its soupy, slurpy, and masaledar charm.

Earlier in 2023, MAGGI also launched foldable, compostable forks in India which were jointly developed in collaboration with Nestlé’s Institute of Packaging Sciences in Lausanne, Switzerland, Kaneka India Pvt. Ltd., and Nestlé India R&D. The introduction of the foldable, compostable forks could result in an annualized plastic reduction of approximately 35 MT.

Commenting on the test launch of the edible forks, Mr. Rajat Jain, Director, of Foods, Nestlé India, said “At Nestlé, it is our continuous endeavor to discover ways to build a better future for our consumers and the planet. The launch of edible fork in Cuppa noodles marks a significant milestone in our commitment towards environmental responsibility while pioneering consumer-centric initiatives. This innovation is a testament of our global R&D capabilities showcased in the use of cutting edge-technology to develop first-of-its-kind two-piece fork design. We are confident that this launch will also set a strong precedent for greater greener solutions.”

Mr. Jagdeep Marahar, Head of Nestlé R&D Centre India Private Limited (a wholly owned subsidiary of Société des Produits, Nestlé SA), said “Our global packaging expertise, combined with the insights of our local packaging experts allows us to discover and test innovative ways to reduce plastics. Our teams are constantly exploring novel packaging materials and cutting-edge technologies to optimize use of plastics across the value chain and create sustainable alternatives that are accepted by local consumers.”

The launch of the edible forks is currently planned as a limited-period offering. MAGGI Masala Cuppa noodles with Edible Fork is available in major metro cities starting May’24, priced at INR 50 for a 79.5 g pack.

Yamaha Opens New ‘Blue Square’ Outlet in Bangalore

Bangalore, Karnataka, 1st June 2024: India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. today announced the opening of a new state-of-the-art “Blue Square” outlet in Bangalore. This new outlet is launched under the banner of ‘Moto World’ with 7,100 sqft. space at Ambalipura, Varthur Hobli in Bangalore. Yamaha Blue Square showrooms are designed to deliver a superior experience to customers across end-to-end sales, service, and support through a highly personalized approach.

The exclusive Blue Square outlet embodies the brand’s true spirit and has been meticulously designed to provide customers with an exceptional end-to-end experience. They exemplify a personalized approach, ensuring every customer feels valued and satisfied. By leveraging these exclusive outlets, the brand aims to offer customers a gateway into the world of Yamaha Racing.

Each section of these premium outlets has been thoughtfully crafted to instill a sense of pride in being associated with a global brand deeply rooted in international motorsports. Guided by this philosophy, Yamaha has formed an instant connection with customers through the combination of “Blue,” representing the brand’s proud racing legacy, and “Square,” symbolizing a curated platform for customers to connect with Yamaha’s exhilarating, sporty, and stylish range of two-wheelers.

Alongside providing an industry-leading experience, these outlets also serve as a platform for the Blue Streaks riders – Yamaha’s exclusive biker community, allowing riders to engage and interact with other riders. Including the new outlet, Yamaha will now have 23 exclusive Blue Square Showrooms in the Karnataka market.

While Yamaha’s Supersport R3 (321cc), torque-rich MT-03 (321cc) and maxi-sports Aerox (155cc) and Aerox Version S (155cc) are exclusively sold through Blue Square showrooms, these premium outlets also showcase the updated line-up of premium two-wheelers including YZF-R15M (155cc), YZF-R15 V4 (155cc), YZF-R15S V3 (155cc), MT-15 V2 (155cc); Blue-Core Technology-enabled models such as FZS-Fi Version 4.0 (149cc), FZS-Fi Version 3.0 (149cc), FZ-Fi Version 3.0 (149cc), FZ-X (149cc), and scooters like Fascino 125 Fi Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR Street Rally 125 Fi Hybrid (125cc). Delivering on the promise of providing a more comprehensive experience, these premium Blue Square outlets also have the latest Yamaha genuine accessories, official apparel, and Yamaha genuine spare parts on display and sales for customers.

Say Hello to Ella-GPT: TECNO CAMON 30’s AI Game-Changer

New Delhi, 1st June 2024: TECNO, the global smartphone innovator, is always ahead of the game, bringing the best of tech to its dynamic users. The new TECNO CAMON 30 Series is packed with amazing AI capabilities, to deliver an experience like never before. With cutting-edge AI features, top-notch camera tech, and plenty of storage, this line-up has it all.

The CAMON 30 Series integrates futuristic AI functionalities like Ella-GPT and Ask AI. These smart features transform the phone from a simple device into a versatile assistant, streamlining tasks and elevating user experience to new heights.

Meet Ella-GPT, TECNO users’ new go-to AI assistant that can handle anything you throw at it! Need a quick answer, brainstorm ideas, or a real-time translation? Ella’s got you covered. With Ella-GPT, you can control your phone using just your voice, manage your daily tasks effortlessly, and easily create awesome content. First introduced with the PHANTOM V Flip 5G, Ella-GPT makes the smartphone experience cooler and more fun.

Supporting over 70 languages, adapting to various scenarios, and providing personalized assistance, Ella-GPT enhances every user experience. Whether you’re a professional seeking information and efficiency or a traveller looking for the best suggestions, the CAMON 30 Series with Ella-GPT is designed to meet your needs.

Supporting multiple languages, adapting to various scenarios, and providing personalized assistance, Ella-GPT enhances every user experience. Whether you’re a professional seeking efficiency or a traveller looking for the best suggestions, the CAMON 30 Series with Ella-GPT is designed to meet your needs.

With the ASK AI feature, you can easily craft compelling text, check for grammar mistakes, and enhance your browsing with Chrome integration—perfect for both productivity and entertainment. The CAMON 30 Series also sparks creativity by letting you create unique images from random strokes using AI Generate on the Notepad app, turning simple outlines into stunning sketches.

Furthermore, the Polar Ace AI Image Processor, the Industry’s first collaboration between Sony and TECNO, allows to capture vibrant and bright low-light shots and store the magic of a starry night and even the hues of a fading sun.

TECNO has consistently led the way in integrating AI to enhance consumer experiences. At the Mobile World Congress 2024, TECNO showcased its commitment to innovation with a stunning display of tech prowess. Highlights included TECNO’s AI-Enhanced Robotic Dog, Dynamic 1, symbolizing companionship, and innovation by replicating a pet dog’s lifelike movements and interactions. Additionally, TECNO introduced the industry’s first Multi-Skin Tone Imaging Technology, setting a new benchmark in colour accuracy and representation, underscoring the brand’s dedication to inclusivity and technological excellence.

Paving the Path for Progress as Prevalon Energy Continues Landmark Partnership in Energy Evolution

Heathrow, FL, May 31, 2024 — Prevalon Energy, LLC, a leading name in energy solutions, proudly announces a significant milestone in its partnership with REPT BATTERO Energy Co., Ltd. This marks a pivotal moment as Prevalon Energy embarks on a journey to reshape the energy landscape in the Americas.

Building upon the foundation of a previously established agreement, Prevalon is thrilled to commence the inaugural phase of collaboration with REPT by formalizing a Letter of Intent for the deployment of 2.5 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in 2024. This milestone heralds the commencement of an ambitious trajectory towards a cumulative deployment target exceeding 10 GWh, reaffirming Prevalon’s steadfast dedication to sustainable energy solutions.

“Prevalon is honored to be designated an authorized service agent for REPT equipment throughout the Americas,” said Tom Cornell, President, and CEO of Prevalon Energy. “This designation not only underscores the trust and confidence bestowed upon Prevalon but also signifies a strategic alignment that promises unparalleled avenues for innovation and growth.”

At the heart of this collaboration lies a shared commitment to harnessing the power of collaboration to drive progress. By uniting forces with REPT, a vanguard in battery cell development, Prevalon gains access to cutting-edge solutions that redefine benchmarks for performance and value. Leveraging REPT’s advanced battery cells and modules within Prevalon’s High-Density (HD) 511 Integrated Energy Storage Platform, customers can expect unrivaled levels of fire safety, cyber security, efficiency, and reliability.

This partnership transcends mere transactional exchanges; it embodies mutual empowerment and shared success. Through the Prevalon platform, REPT gains access to rigorous testing and qualification processes, ensuring continuous product enhancement. In reciprocity, Prevalon benefits from the latest strides in battery technology, cementing its position as a frontrunner in innovative energy storage solutions.

Together, Prevalon and REPT are poised to redefine the boundaries of renewable energy. Their collective endeavors are not solely aimed at meeting market demands but are driven by a steadfast commitment to effecting meaningful change towards a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

VirtuAlarm Announces the Addition of Direct Customer Billing by Credit Card and EFT for All Its Dealers

Kirkland, WA, May 31, 2024 — VirtuAlarm is currently transferring all AmericanDigitalMonitoring.com Dealers and their active Subscribers into the automated VirtuAlarm platform, allowing for a faster and more efficient false alarm processing and billing. Dealers are being issued a single receiver number that will process all signal formats received over PSTN for faster processing in VIRTUALARM’s receiver farm.

Any NON-PSTN signals from any 3rd party device, including but not limited to Alarm.com, AlarmNet, Alula, CLSS, Honeywell, M2M, Napco, Uplink, Telguard, Yolink can be routed to VirtuAlarm by API instead.

If the Dealer no longer wants to perform billing of its Subscribers, VirtuAlarm will allow Dealers to white label bill their Subscribers located in the U.S. or Canada, through its new platform, by entering the Subscribers Credit Card or EFT information.

The services enable dealers to offload billing tasks via credit card and EFT to VirtuAlarm platform thereby utilizing RMR billing, without the need to have the Dealer set-up the traditional merchant accounts and transaction monitoring procedures. Once added, the dealer’s customer billing and collection data can be easily monitored via the Virtualarm dealer portal. Collected funds are transferred to the dealer’s bank account in near real-time upon receipt.

This is the latest enhancement to the VirtuAlarm suite of services, which includes:
The signal delivery service, allowing traditional professionally installed alarm systems and the new class of Do-It-Yourself alarm and camera systems to send signals to the platform via multiple methods including phone line, cellular, IP, API, SMS and email. Upon receipt, the VirtuAlarm platform converts the signal to a standard alarm industry format where the Dealer can select to have VirtuAlarm/American Digital Monitoring to monitor the Subscribers or the signals can be routed to any professional alarm monitoring center, worldwide, using VirtuAlarm’s C.S.I.P. Receiver Network, or by phone line. (PSTN)

The False Alarm Reduction Platform uses multiple communication methods to allow end users to confirm or cancel the alarm event prior to dispatching authorities. When an alarm event is received by the platform, push notifications are sent to the end user’s APP available for both Apple and Android to as many friends, family members, or employees needed. The push notification is followed by automated interactive phone calls. At each step, any user receiving the notification has the ability to either cancel the alarm prior to authority dispatch or confirm the alarm for immediate upgraded authority dispatch. This entire process takes less than 30 seconds, based on the variable settings available and does not impact the dispatch time.