31, Jan 2024
Join the ‘Gen Next’ Virtual Design Festival 2024 for preparing your design skills
Aspiring designers gear up for an unparalleled design journey with the “Gen Next” Virtual Design Festival 2024, a groundbreaking collaboration between Collegedunia and AIDAT. Scheduled from January to June 2024, this innovative initiative brings together over 50 leading design colleges across India to redefine design education through an immersive and transformative experience.
Get ready to enter the world of design :
The festival offers a diverse range of opportunities for participants to enhance their skills and creativity:
1. 30+ Master Classes for College Readiness:
Immerse yourself in the wisdom of design gurus, industry titans, HODs, deans, and professors. These master classes are tailored to prepare participants for the challenges of college-level design education.
2. Showcase Talent in 30+ Design Contests:
Participants can shine on the national stage by participating in design contests that encourage creativity and transcend conventional boundaries.
3. Connect with Design Icons for Career Guidance:
Exclusive sessions with design luminaries offer invaluable insights, providing personalized career guidance and shaping the creative destiny of aspiring designers.
4. 30+ Virtual Workshops for Expertise:
Dive into specialized workshops that promise hands-on learning, honing skills, and transforming participants into design maestros. These workshops provide practical learning experiences.
5. Brainstorm to Explore Design Horizons:
Stimulating sessions encourage out-of-the-box thinking, pushing the boundaries of design exploration and fostering innovation.
6. Personalized Prep: Choose 5+ Sessions/Month:
Tailor your learning experience by selecting a minimum of 5 sessions per month based on your interests, ensuring a focused and impactful learning journey.
How to Enroll:
Step 1 : Choose Your Sessions:
Select a minimum of 5 sessions per month via a user-friendly Google Form shared through email.
Step 2 : Complete the Registration Form:
Step 3 :Fill in your details to secure your front-row seat, ensuring you don’t miss this groundbreaking event.
Step 4 : Receive Confirmation:
Upon enrollment, receive a confirmation along with access details delivered straight to your inbox.
Step 5 : Participate in Contests:
Register to unleash your design prowess in monthly contests and showcase your creative genius.
AIDAT – Transformative Design Platform
In addition to the Virtual Design Festival, AIDAT introduces the All India Design Aptitude Test (AIDAT), India’s 1st National Level Design Entrance Exam. AIDAT serves as a transformative platform facilitating applications for prestigious design academics at nationally acclaimed universities. It provides a wealth of resources, including reading materials, design news, industry awareness, counseling, and invaluable career guidance.
Renowned universities participating in AIDAT offer a diverse array of diploma, bachelor, and master degree programs, making it the ultimate choice for design aspirants seeking excellence in various specializations.
Edinbox – Diverse Entrance Exams
Edinbox, a pioneer in education-focused media, goes beyond AIDAT to offer diverse entrance exams catering to various interests, including AIFSET, GMCET, and AIPMCET. These assessments open doors to global opportunities by collaborating with South Asian universities, providing aspirants with a pathway to higher education tailored to their passions.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of the most transformative design journey at India’s “Gen Next” Virtual Design Festival 2024. Join a community where creativity knows no bounds, and the future of design education is redefined!
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- By Rabindra
31, Jan 2024
PECUC Sparks National Conversation: Preserving the Future and Bringing Leaders Together to Protect Youth from Tobacco
New Delhi, January 31, 2024: People’s Cultural Centre (PECUC), a well-known non-governmental organization, in association with ‘Coalition of Tobacco Free Odisha’ organised a National Consultation on Safeguarding Future on January 30, at the Deputy Speaker Hall, Constitution Club of India, Delhi, in an important effort to stop the growing problem of youth tobacco use.
The title of the event, “Safeguarding Future: Protecting Youth from Tobacco,” was to provide a venue for inclusive collaboration between youth ambassadors, civil society organizations, healthcare professionals, and members of parliament. The primary objectives were to tackle pressing issues of youth tobacco use and to develop all-encompassing strategies for protection and prevention.
Prominent oncologist Dr. Ranjeet Kar illuminated the significant harm that tobacco causes to one’s health by highlighting its correlation with a range of cancers and other illnesses that not only affect individuals but also effect everything from female infertility to cardiac arrest.
Advocate Ranjeet Singh emphasized the youth’s dual position as both the problem and the solution. He underlined the necessity of strict laws, such as prohibiting the sale of single sticks and hukka bars. Mr. Singh exhorted the younger generation to speak up for change and be instrumental in changing the way society views tobacco.
A number of Parliamentarians took an active part in the conversations. Mahesh Sahu, Member of Parliament, underlined that, in light of the enormous medical expenses linked to tobacco-related illnesses, both the central and state governments must work together to reduce tobacco usage.
Niranjan Bishi ,MP emphasized the need of raising awareness among children enrolled in school while endorsing the effort to rid Odisha of tobacco use.
While appreciating PECUC’s efforts, Sulata Deo, Member of Parliament, suggested stringent laws along with strengthening COTPA and strict vigilance of sale of tobacco products close to colleges and schools.
Stuti Ranjan Pradhan, Manas Padhy, Nikki Malik, Sashmita and other Youth Ambassadors of different states suggested to increase the legal age of tobacco usage to 21,raise the price of tobacco and outlawing the sale of single stick .
Sujeet Kumar, Member of Parliament, said, ” We need stringent law.We also need to work at ground level towards this as we are in direct contact with the people .
Bhubaneswar Kalita, Member Rajya Sabha, praised PECUC’s initiative and suggested a multipronged strategy to establish a tobacco-free India that includes laws, levies, public health initiatives, and community campaigns.
Muzibullah Khan, Member of Rajyasabha Odisha, said that smoking has become a fashion among youngsters. Foremost, the parents should guide their children about its repercussions. We all need to work together for bringing desired change.
Ranjan Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, PECUC welcomed the guests and moderated the event. Anuradha Mohanty, Executive Director of PECUC, thanked everyone for coming, especially the young people, for supporting the effort and a tobacco-free society as the event came to an end.
31, Jan 2024
Pre Budget quote on behalf of Ms Sheetal Bhalerao
By Ms Sheetal Bhalerao, Chairperson and Managing Director of Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Ltd.
“The industry seeks that the upcoming budget will set the ground for shaping the macro-level landscape of the food and beverages sector, both domestically and in terms of export. We foresee a great potential for growth and expansion of Indian brands in global markets. It would be a great indicator to the industry if the interim budget gives concrete directions benefiting the Indian F&B sector with regards to trade policies, export incentives, and infrastructure development. In particular, we are hopeful that these positive measures will drive ready-to-eat and frozen food segments. The budget’s support for these segments could further bolster our position in the global market and drive increased export opportunities. We are optimistic that the Government will recognize the significance of the food and beverages sector and introduce measures that will propel the industry towards greater heights.”
31, Jan 2024
Budget Quote – Reema Dube Yerawar, Founder, Chipmunk
Reema Dube Yerawar, Founder, Chipmunk:
“As a representative of the beauty sector, we eagerly anticipate the forthcoming budget to act as a catalyst for transformative growth and sustainability. The beauty industry in India stands at the precipice of innovation and evolution, and our expectations harmonize with the broader goals of fostering a thriving and resilient sector. Given the distinctive characteristics of our sector, we advocate for targeted measures. It is our sincere request to the government to consider incentives that champion research and development in clean beauty formulations, aligning seamlessly with global trends and consumer preferences. We also encourage investment in the development of eco-friendly packaging solutions, positioning the Indian beauty sector as a responsible contributor to environmental conservation.Recognizing the pivotal role of skilled professionals in our industry, we emphasize the need for skill development initiatives tailored specifically for the beauty sector. Focused training programs incorporating the latest techniques and trends will not only empower individuals but also bolster the overall competitiveness of the sector on a global scale.Sustainability in formulations and ingredients remains a paramount focus, and we eagerly anticipate measures that encourage businesses to adopt green technologies. Incentives for the adoption of sustainable practices will not only accrue benefits for individual companies but also contribute to the industry’s collective efforts in building a greener future. Moreover, we advocate for a streamlined tax structure and the reinforcement of compliance norms and safety tests to ensure consumer safety within the beauty sector. Strengthening regulations on labels, transparency about ingredients for all brands, and a stringent focus on high-quality ingredients will fortify entrepreneurship, foster the creation of safe products, and contribute to overall economic growth.In conclusion, the beauty sector looks to the government to craft a strategic and sector-focused budget that recognizes and addresses the unique challenges and opportunities within our industry. We firmly believe that a forward-looking budget will propel the beauty sector to new heights, solidifying its role as a key contributor to India’s economic resurgence.”
31, Jan 2024
Kotak Mahindra Bank Extends Support to Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences
Karnataka, January 31, 2024: Under its Corporate Social Responsibility commitment, Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (“KMBL”/“Bank”) has extended support to Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), Karnataka, by providing a fully equipped Cardiac Ambulance for critical healthcare emergencies. The Cardiac Ambulance was inaugurated by Dr. Sharanaparakash Rudrappa Patil, Hon Minister of Medical Education and Skill Development, Karnataka; along with Dr. Umesh S R, Director & Dean, GIMS and R Vardharajan, Business Head – Government Business, Kotak Mahindra Bank.
Through this CSR association with GIMS, Kotak aims to strengthen access to healthcare for local communities. The fully equipped Cardiac Ambulance will provide initial emergency treatments such as cardiac and respiratory ailments. On average, it is anticipated to support close to 500 patients each month, contributing significantly to the healthcare needs of the community in Gulbarga.
R Vardharajan, Business Head – Government Business, Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited, said, “We are committed to support the healthcare needs of local communities. Through our CSR association with Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences, we will provide critical support to patients with cardiac and respiratory ailments and contribute to the need for superior healthcare services in the state.”
Dr. Umesh S R, Director & Dean, GIMS said, “We are delighted to witness yet another feat which resembles the commitment of Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences and is in line with the service-oriented tradition of the hospital. This latest addition of Cardiac Ambulance to serve the underserved will prove to be a blessing for cardiac patients. We thank Kotak Mahindra Bank to have supported us in fulfilling our mission to serve the poor and enhance the quality of treatment.”
Kotak Karma is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) identity of the Kotak Mahindra Group of companies
31, Jan 2024
TiE Young Entrepreneurs’ 15th Edition held Pawjour team emerged winners
Hyderabad, January 31, 2024: TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) 2023-24 Grand Finale held. The Pawlour team emerged winners.
The Pawjour team comprising Gowtham (Raj Bhavan Govt. School), Maria (MRMR Govt. Junior College), Mithul (Oakridge International), Chaturya (Raj Bhavan Govt. School), and Anirudh (Vista International) emerged winners for their inventive pet-friendly initiative. They walked away with winning medals and mementoes which were presented to them by Srini Chandupatla, President of TiE Hyderabad, disclosed TiE Hyderabad in a press note issued in the city today.
A team consisting of Fauzaan (Nasr School), Akshara (Raj Bhavan Govt. School), Shiven (Obul Reddy), and Chirusritha (Raj Bhavan Govt. School) stood to run up their concept on urbanization and mobility. They also earned the Best Elevator Pitch Award. The runner-up was felicitated with mementoes and awards and the same was presented to them by Mr. Srini Chandupatla, President of TiE Hyderabad.
The highlight of this year’s program was that the organisers saw to it that every team had one member from a government school, thereby encouraging government school kids too to explore the path of entrepreneurship along with the students of private schools.
TiE Young Entrepreneurs is a great initiative aimed at fostering our future generation of entrepreneurs. It focuses on teaching entrepreneurship to high school students and helping them discover the rewards and challenges of becoming an entrepreneur.
Part of this program TiE Young Entrepreneurs’s competition was held in a phased manner through activity-based learning and mentoring by Charter Members of TiE and Seasoned professionals from the industry, a cohort of 25 students participated. Five teams comprising students ranging from Government Schools to International schools qualified for the Grand Finale, which was held in a city hotel in Gachibowli and pitched their ideas to the jury.
Earlier speaking on the occasion, TiE Hyderabad Chapter President Srini Chandupatla, said “The TYE program is designed, executed, and mentored by TiE Charter Members who are serial entrepreneurs.”
The participants of the TiE Young Entrepreneurs program were mentored by proven entrepreneurs such as Mr. Hari Bharadwaj, Dr. Balaji Bhyravbhatla, Viiveck Verma, Mr. Raj Samala, and Sakhti Chevuturi and they underwent a transformative journey, culminating in the presentation of their unique solutions to real-world problems. The TYE Committee led by N. Venkatesh, Subbaraju Pericharla, and Sri Charan Lakkaraju, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the program, fostering a nurturing environment for creativity and innovation.
The year 2024 is a milestone year for TiE Hyderabad as it has completed 25 long years of journey of fostering entrepreneurship and celebrating its Silver Jubilee.
Over 100 attendees including students, parents, jury members, educators, entrepreneurs, and TiE Charter Members graced the grand finale.
31, Jan 2024
Blu Attic’s Harmonic House Journey: Live Performance at Dishkeyaun on February 3rd
Blu Attic, is all set to grace Dishkeyaun with a captivating performance. Blu Attic is known for crafting harmonically rich music, with a special emphasis on diverse house music genres, including Deep, Melodic, Soulful, and Organic House.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, 3rd February, as Blu Attic takes the stage at Dishkeyaun, starting at 9 PM. It promises to be a night filled with mesmerising beats and unforgettable vibes. Don’t miss out on this musical journey!
So, mark your calendars and get ready for a night of fantastic music and positive energy as Blu Attic graces the stage at Dishkeyaun. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of house music or just looking for a memorable night out, this event promises to deliver a memorable experience.
Where: Dishkeyaun
When: 3rd February, Saturday
Time: 9 PM onwards
Contact: +91 6364-467375
Address: 2nd level, Forum Rex Walk, Brigade Rd, B Block, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
31, Jan 2024
Highest ever quarterly EBITDA of Rs. 151 cr., up 19.8% YoY
New Delhi, January 31, 2024, SIS Ltd. (NSE: SIS, BSE: 540673), announced its Unaudited Financial Results for the quarter ended December 31st, 2023.
Key Consolidated Financials at a Glance:
| Rs. cr. | Q3 FY24 | Q3 FY23 | Y-o-Y | Q2 FY24 | Q-o-Q |
| Revenue from operations | 3,073.4 | 2,904.3 | 5.8% | 3,073.6 | 0.0% |
| EBITDA | 151.4 | 126.4 | 19.8% | 144.5 | 4.8% |
| EBITDA % | 4.9% | 4.4% | 4.7% | ||
| Adjusted Profit after
taxes* |
79.1 | 67.9 | 16.5% | 84.2 | -6.0% |
| Adjusted Profit after
taxes % |
2.6% | 2.3% | 2.7% |
· Segmental revenues are as follows:
- Security Solutions India: 1,318 cr. in Q3FY24 vs Rs 1,203 cr. in Q3FY23 and Rs.
1,302 cr. in Q2FY24
- Security Solutions International: 1,245 cr. in Q3FY24 vs Rs 1,219 cr. in Q3FY23 and Rs. 1,259 cr. in Q2FY24
- Facility Management Solutions: 525 cr. in Q3FY24 vs Rs 497 cr. in Q3FY23 and Rs.
528 cr. in Q2FY24
Return Ratios: ROE of Q3 FY24 was 2%
Cash Conversion – OCF/EBITDA on a consolidated basis was 7% for the quarter.
Business Updates:
Security Solutions India: The Security Solutions India business continued its growth momentum with 9.5% YoY growth and 1.2% QoQ growth in revenue for the quarter, and reached Rs. 1,318 Cr. Major wins during the quarter came from the BFSI, Energy, Retail, Healthcare, and Hospitality sectors. EBITDA margin continues to improve to 6.1% in Q3 FY24, up from 9% in Q3 FY23. Our Alarm Monitoring and Response company, VProtect, is now servicing over 21,000 connections.
Security Solutions International: The Security Solutions International business recorded a revenue of Rs. 1,245 Cr. for the quarter which is a 2.1% YoY growth (1.6% in constant currency) and -1.1% QoQ growth (-1.3% in constant currency). This growth was primarily driven by new wins in the Mining, Education, Manufacturing, Retail, and Real Estate The EBITDA margin for Q3FY24 was 3.9% compared to 4.0% in Q3FY23. EBITDA margins was impacted by the downsizing of a contract by one customer and the loss of one contract in Australia.
Facility Management Solutions: The Facility Management Solutions segment continued its growth momentum with 5.6% revenue growth YoY and -0.5% growth QoQ for the quarter, reaching revenues of Rs 525 Cr. for the quarter. Major wins during the quarter came from Real Estate, Education, Government, Manufacturing, and Healthcare. The EBITDA margin for Q3FY24 improved to 4.3% from 4.0% in Q3FY23 due to the shedding of low-profit contracts and overhead
Cash Logistics Solutions: The Cash Logistics segment continues its strong revenue growth with 7% growth YoY and 3.9% growth QoQ for the quarter, driven by new wins in cash in transit (CIT) business. The Q3 FY24 EBITDA was Rs. 27 cr., an increase of 24.0% YoY, and Q3 FY24 EBITDA margin was 16.6%. New innovative solutions revenue growth is 60% in Q3 FY24 YoY.
Commenting on the performance, Mr. Rituraj Kishore Sinha, Group Managing Director said,
“SIS reported the highest ever quarterly EBITDA at ₹151.4 cr. EBITDA margins of Security Solutions – India segment are back to pre-COVID levels. The Cash Joint venture business, which is the second largest cash logistics business in the country, reported its highest quarterly revenue and EBITDA margin in Q3 FY24”
31, Jan 2024
Philips Introduces Revolutionary Hair Straightener with NourishCare Technology
Mumbai, January 31, 2024: Philips India, a global leader in health technology and innovations, is delighted to introduce a pioneering breakthrough in hairstyling – the country’s first hair straightener designed to style with no heat damage, the Philips Hair Straightener with NourishCare Technology. This unique straightener boasts of specially designed serum strips infused with hair nourishing ingredients, Vitamin E and Moroccan Argan oil along with Kerashine care that help style and nourish hair while protecting them from heat damage. This technology locks in moisture that is usually lost due to heat and gives nourished, healthy-looking hair.
Commenting on the new launch, Deepali Agarwal, Business Head- Personal Health at Philips Indian Subcontinent, said, “Embodying our commitment to continuous innovation and consumer well-being, the introduction of the Hair Straightener with NourishCare Technology marks a very big milestone in our journey at Philips. In line with our purpose of empowering young Indian consumers to care for their specialness, we are committed to delivering technology that not only meets but exceeds the evolving and intricate needs of our consumers. The Philips Hair Straightener with NourishCare Technology, proudly ‘Made in India,’ incorporates cutting-edge technology, offering a superior hair nourishing and styling experience without compromising on hair quality and health. Our brand ambassador, Alia Bhatt personifies the spirit of effortless style and resonates with the empowered individuals we aim to serve. With our campaign, we want to convey the transformative experience of using NourishCare Technology, where styling and hair protection coexist seamlessly.”
Today we are launching our campaign film, that captures the key consumer barrier of heat damage due to styling and how our innovative technology addresses this and brings joy to our consumers. With Alia being the face of the campaign, it simply adds a touch of glamour with authenticity and credibility for – ‘No heat damage. Just gorgeous, straight hair’.
Alia Bhatt, Brand Ambassador of Philips Beauty elaborates on the launch of Philips Hair Straightener with NourishCare Technology, “As someone who believes self-expression is really an important layer of who I am, being the face of the much-awaited launch of Philips NourishCare Hair Straightener fills me with excitement. More than just a styling tool, it’s a statement urging everyone to effortlessly embrace their unique style without the constant worry of heat damage. Philips, at the forefront of innovation rooted in consumer needs, also sets a great example of the amalgamation of beauty with technology that truly cares and the TVC reflects exactly this. Here’s to styling with care with Philips and celebrating individuality.”
This cutting-edge device not only delivers an unparalleled nourishing and styling experience but also serves as a testament to pioneering innovation by enabling styling without heat damage. This unique technology forms a protective coating on hair to prevent water loss caused due to heat and hence locks in moisture. The inclusion of serum strips enriched with nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E and Moroccan Argan Oil along with Kerashine care provides the ultimate styling experience with a result of softer, smoother, shinier and healthy-looking hair . The straightener comes with easy clip-on, clip-off heat-resistant brackets and replaceable serum strips uniquely designed to work with this straightener. The replaceable serum strips will be available for repurchase separately.
31, Jan 2024
Pre Budget Quote: Ms. Shivani Priyam Patel, Director, Assotech Group
Ms. Shivani Priyam Patel, Director, Assotech Group:
“As a woman entrepreneur leading Assotech Group, I eagerly anticipate the forthcoming 2024 budget in India with a sense of optimism and anticipation. The real estate sector plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economic growth, and I believe that the budget will present valuable opportunities to further catalyze our industry’s progress.
Empowering women in entrepreneurship is a cause close to my heart, and I look forward to measures that foster inclusivity and gender diversity within the real estate landscape. Policies that encourage women-led enterprises, facilitate access to funding, and provide a supportive framework for professional growth will undoubtedly contribute to a more vibrant and dynamic sector.
In particular, I am hopeful for initiatives that promote sustainable practices and eco-friendly construction methodologies. The alignment of financial incentives with green building practices will not only benefit the environment but also encourage developers to embrace innovative, sustainable solutions. The budget can serve as a catalyst for our industry’s transition towards a more eco-conscious future.
Additionally, I anticipate measures that streamline regulatory processes and provide clarity on taxation policies. A simplified regulatory framework will not only ease the operational burden on businesses but also attract more investors, fostering a conducive environment for growth and development.
The real estate sector is uniquely positioned to contribute to job creation, and I hope to see budgetary provisions that encourage skill development and employment generation, especially for women in the construction and allied industries. Inclusivity and diversity are key drivers of progress, and I believe that a focus on these aspects will contribute to the holistic growth of our sector.
As we navigate the dynamic landscape of real estate, I am confident that the 2024 budget will pave the way for transformative changes. It is my sincere hope that the budget will reflect the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for women entrepreneurs, driving sustainable practices, and ensuring the continued growth of the real estate sector in India.
Together, let us build a future where innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity define the essence of Indian real estate.”
