Author: Rabindra

Mercedes-Benz R&D India Commemorates 10 Years of Advancing Road Safety Through Accident Research

India, December 12, 2024 – Emphasising its commitment to enhancing road safety awareness, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) — the largest research and development centre for Mercedes-Benz Group AG outside Germany — celebrated 10 years of its Accident Research team in India at the Mercedes-Benz SAFE ROADS India Summit 2024 in Bengaluru.

Road safety continues to be a pressing concern in India. In 2023, there were over 4.8 lakh road accidents, which claimed 1.72 lakh lives[1]. Our accident investigations in India show that 95% of the driver and front passengers who used seat belts were uninjured, revealing the power of passive safety systems.

Research and innovation in road safety are bridging the gap between risk and safety. Established as the digital hub of global accident research operations, the Accident Research team in India specialises in accident reconstruction, anonymisation, and data analytics across various accident databases, enabling the evaluation of safety system effectiveness under diverse Indian road conditions. Starting active accident investigations in 2019, the team has investigated 52 critical accident cases, including seven involving electric vehicles. A significant milestone includes the first EQS accident investigation, an event that underscored the team’s expertise in emerging automotive technologies. By comparing accident data, the team gains insights into typical accident and deformation patterns, aiding the development of more effective protection systems and enhancing the safety of future Mercedes-Benz vehicle models.

“Road safety is a global challenge that demands localised understanding and actionable solutions. At Mercedes-Benz, our ultimate purpose transcends technology; it’s saving human lives. MBRDI’s decade-long accident research provides crucial insights in fulfilling this purpose. With safety embedded in its core ethos, Mercedes-Benz uses data-driven innovation to address the unique challenges of diverse markets while advancing the collective vision of accident-free mobility by 2050. This milestone marks an important step in translating that vision into reality for India and beyond,” said Prof. Dr. Paul Dick, Director of Vehicle Safety, Durability, Corrosion Protection, Mercedes-Benz AG.

Building on the legacy of 55 years of the Accident Research team in Germany, the India team handles end-to-end responsibilities for Indian accident cases and has developed deep learning-based image anonymisation with over 80% accuracy. With tools such as Xentry diagnostics and Python-based accident data analysis, Mercedes-Benz is leveraging and developing technologies to accelerate the implementation of vehicle safety improvements. The team also uses 3D scanning with Scaniverse, real-time digital data entry, and augmented reality through VuZix smart glasses for efficient global collaboration. e-Call data ensures precise accident tracking, while sophisticated anonymisation techniques protect privacy.

Manu Saale, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India said, “We believe that road safety is not just a priority but a shared responsibility. SAFE ROADS is a testament to our commitment to raising awareness, increasing collaboration, and taking an insights-driven approach to address India’s unique road safety challenges. Our teams conduct meticulous critical accident data collection and analyses, enabling us to identify patterns and develop impactful solutions. By integrating technology and partnerships, we are not just enhancing the safety capabilities of our vehicles but are also driving a shift towards safer road practices in India.”

The Mercedes-Benz SAFE ROADS India Summit is part of the nationwide SAFE ROADS initiative launched in 2015, bringing together policymakers, academia, industry, NGOs, and students to foster dialogue and showcase innovative solutions for road safety. A distinguished panel featuring Piyush Tewari, Founder & CEO, SaveLIFE Foundation, M. N. Anucheth, IPS, Joint Police Commissioner (Traffic), Bengaluru, and Pramod Reddemreddy, Director of Marketing, Strategy & Innovation, Bosch Mobility India explored the significance of in-depth data for improved safety.

SAFE ROADS India Summit 2024 also included a student ideathon on road safety, where a team from IIT Madras emerged the winner for their idea on LiDAR-based terrain drop-off detection for ADAS. This uses high-precision sensors to map real-time terrain and alert drivers to hazards in hilly regions. The first runner-up from IIT Hyderabad shared the idea of a dynamic driver feedback system leveraging artificial intelligence to integrate vehicle kinematic characteristics and driver behaviour, providing real-time recommendations for safer driving. The second runner-up, also from IIT Madras, proposed a geo-fencing solution that automatically enforces speed limits in sensitive areas such as school zones and residential neighbourhoods by communicating with a vehicle’s electronic control unit. These ideas demonstrate cutting-edge approaches to improving road safety through advanced technology and intelligent systems.

Goyal Salt to Establish Major Plant in Gandhidham with Rs 80 Crore Investment

Jaipur, December 12, 2024: Goyal Salt Limited, leading FMCG player which specializes in salt, is investing ₹80 crore to set up a large salt manufacturing plant in Gandhidham near salt capital of Kutch with a capacity of 4,50,000 MT. Spread over 12 acres of land, the plant is at trial run stage and expected to be operational by end of January 2025. With this plant, Goyal Salt is going to be the largest player in natural salt in India.

Besides Gandhidham plant, the company has one unit in Nawa City spread over in 15 acres solely dedicated for salt refining, raw salt storage and refined salt packaging with a capacity of 2,10,000 MT p.a.

Goyal Salt produces premium industrial and edible salts which Includes Triple Refined Free Flow Iodized Salt, Industrial Salt, Double Fortified Salt, and Triple Refined Half Dry Salt. It has built a robust presence in North India with presence in Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. It is ambitiously eyeing a spot among the top 3 salt brands in India, as it continues to strengthen the brand in Western part of the country like Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Pramesh Goyal, Managing Director said, “Gandhidham offers a conducive business environment and continues to be a top destination for investments. This new plant is a key step in our expansion, fostering growth in Western and Eastern parts of the country like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha and Assam.

The new Gandhidham facility represents a substantial investment of ₹ 80 crore, underscoring our commitment to make Goyal Salt a household name in India. The plant is equipped with cutting-edge technology and infrastructure designed to meet the high standards of salt production, ensuring that we continue to deliver world-class products to our customers.”

India is currently the third largest salt producing country, a position that reflects its strong performance and growth potential. While, Goyal Salt has been focusing on increasing its production capacity, expanding its product portfolio and market presence.

Beauty Garage Professional Takes Center Stage as Runway Partner at Cosmoprof India 2024

Mumbai, December 12, 2024 – Beauty Garage Professional, the only Indian hair care brand at Cosmoprof India 2024, stood out at the global event held at Jio World Convention Center, Mumbai. The brand showcased its extensive product range and highlighted its recent acquisition of Gofab Genesis LLP.

As the official Runway Partner for Runway for Cosmoprof Awards by Cosmoprof India, Beauty Garage Professional added glamour to the event, featuring designs by Geisha Designs by Paras and Shalini A special highlight was CEO and Co-Founder of Beauty Garage Professional, Mahesh Ravaria walking the ramp, symbolizing the brand’s innovation and spirit.

Speaking on the occasion, Mahesh Ravaria said, “Cosmoprof India 2024 has been an incredible platform to showcase our products and connect with global industry leaders. Walking the ramp as the sponsor partner of the Runway by Cosmoprof India was a unique and proud moment, reflecting our brand’s journey and aspirations. We are committed to representing India on a global stage through innovation and excellence.”

Cosmoprof India 2024 provided a vibrant platform for networking, collaboration, and celebrating creativity in the beauty industry. Beauty Garage Professional’s participation and its distinctive “Made in India” identity resonated strongly among attendees, cementing its reputation as a trailblazer in the hair care space.

Axis Bank Projects 7% Growth for FY26, Highlighting Local Drivers Amid Global Economic Uncertainty

Nagpur, December, 2024: Pegging growth at an above-consensus 7% in FY26, Axis Bank’s Chief Economist Neelkanth Mishra finds support for the domestic economy in capital formation boosted by a capex cycle reboot, and tailwinds from back-ended fiscal spending in FY25, and the CRR cut and likely further macro-prudential easing helping revive credit growth. In the bank’s India Economic and Market Outlook 2025 report, Mishra and co-authors Prateek Ancha, Tanay Dalal, Pulkit Kapoor and Smriti Mehra highlight heightened global uncertainty in trade, elevated interest rates, slowing growth and deflation risks in China, and currency volatility. However, they believe the major drivers of India’s economy getting back to its trend growth rate of 7% remain local.

Report Highlights

•  Current global growth forecasts show stability, but uncertainty about US policy after 20-Jan clouds visibility.
• Uncertainty in global trade and financial markets likely to remain elevated; higher global rates and USDINR volatility likely.
• 1HFY25 slowdown was driven by unintended fiscal and credit tightening: fiscal spending is already rising, and the CRR cut should ease growth headwinds arising from a shortage of money.
•  The tailwinds from back-ended fiscal spending in FY25, and better credit growth, supported by expected further macro-prudential easing should help the economy reach its potential growth rate of 7% in FY2026.

Uncertain global economic environment; window of opportunity for reforms in India

• Global growth in CY25E is currently projected to be unchanged from CY24 at 3.2%, with the trend growth ~30-40 bps below pre-Covid levels.
•  Under the new US President, who has won a mandate to course-correct or disrupt trade, taxes, regulations, immigration and energy among others, policy pronouncements after 20-Jan-25 are key. Even if their contours and likely impact are uncertain.
•  Trade tariffs may be ineffective in isolation (fiscal deficits, exchange rates and industrial policy matter too), but can indeed disrupt global trade growth. Global trade growth since 2016 has ben driven primarily by the US (imports) and China (exports) post 2016.
• In India, a nearly empty state-election calendar provides a window to push reforms.

Financial uncertainty, higher rates, USDINR volatility

•  Neutral rates have risen by more than 1 percent point across developed economies and may remain well above those seen last decade.
•  In India, we do not see inflation easing quickly: over the long term, core and food price indices move together.
• Though food relative to core, and vegetables relative to food, are both at cyclical highs, the supply response may lag the demand boost from income-transfer schemes.
•  Better demand-supply for government bonds though should help reduce yields. We expect USDINR volatility to rise, though it would be unwise to expect USD strength to last the year.

Cyclical rebound to push growth back to trend

•  1H FY24 loss in momentum for the Indian economy is cyclical, and due to unintended fiscal and monetary tightening; the latter due to a focus on macro stability risks which hurt credit growth.
• Fiscal spending is already rising and the CRR cut should ease growth headwinds.
•  We forecast above-consensus 7% growth in FY26, with capital formation boosted by the restart of the capex cycle and tailwinds from back-ended fiscal spending in FY25, supported by further macro-prudential easing to help re-accelerate credit growth.

‘India Economic and Market Outlook 2025: Turbulence globally, while drivers remain local’ – Neelkanth Mishra, Prateek Ancha; Tanay Dalal, Pulkit Kapoor, Smriti Mehra. December 10, 2024, Axis Bank Ltd.

Innovative Conversations at Gillco International School’s ‘Let’s Talk Education’ Event on Future Learning

Gillco International School proudly served as the host of Let’s Talk Education a pioneering 10-day event organized by Bootcamps, which traveled across 10 schools in 10 cities. This extraordinary initiative brought together a diverse group of educators, school leaders, and students to discuss the future of education, explore innovative teaching strategies, and honor exceptional leadership in the education sector.

The event served as a powerful platform for dynamic conversations about the rapidly changing landscape of education, offering opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing. Mr. Akshay Ahuja, Co-Founder of Bootcamps, delivered an engaging keynote address that set the stage for the entire event. His session focused on revolutionizing education through personalized learning, embracing educational technology, and fostering innovation in schools. Mr. Ahuja emphasized the importance of preparing students for the future by equipping them with the skills and mindset necessary for success in an increasingly digital world. His thought-provoking ideas resonated deeply with attendees, inspiring them to think critically about how they can transform education within their own institutions.

Interactive Workshops and Meaningful Conversations

Beyond the keynote sessions and discussions, ‘Let’s Talk Education’ offered attendees the opportunity to engage in interactive workshops that addressed some of the most pressing challenges in education today. Topics ranged from rethinking curriculum design and advancing digital literacy to adopting student-centered teaching practices and navigating the intersection of technology and pedagogy. These hands-on sessions provided practical tools and strategies that participants could immediately implement in their schools.

A Vision for the Future of Education

Reflecting on the significance of the event,Dr. Kritika Kaushal stated, “‘Let’s Talk Education’ was a transformative experience for all of us at Gillco International School. It not only allowed us to connect with like-minded educators and share ideas but also reinforced our commitment to being at the forefront of educational innovation. This event is a testament to the collective effort required to create a future where education evolves to meet the needs of every student.”

Mr. Akshay Ahuja echoed these sentiments, adding, “Education is no longer just about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity. ‘Let’s Talk Education’ is exactly the kind of platform we need to facilitate these discussions, empower educators, and create actionable solutions for the challenges we face in schools today.”

The success of ‘Let’s Talk Education’] at Gillco International School has set a new standard for educational events, reinforcing the school’s position as a leader in embracing innovation and change. Through such initiatives, Gillco continues to create impactful spaces for educators to explore new horizons, exchange ideas, and ultimately shape the future of education in India and beyond.

Times Prime & Shoppers Stop Roll Out the Purple Carpet for ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ Premiere

December 12, 2024 – Times Prime, India’s premium lifestyle app, hosted an exclusive Purple Carpet™ premiere of the highly anticipated film “Pushpa 2: The Rule,” in association with Shoppers Stop, with Cinepolis serving as the venue partner.

The Times Prime Purple Carpet, in association with Shoppers Stop, brought an exclusive movie screening experience to Times Prime & Shoppers Stop’s First Citizen Club members. Designed to provide a superlative cinematic experience, this event offered members the chance to enjoy blockbuster movies at the best theaters.

Members walked the Purple Carpet, enjoyed a food & beverage combo, and received a surprise goodie bag—all at a special members-only price.

As part of its First Citizen Club, Shoppers Stop’s longest running loyalty program, uses this unique initiative to delight and reward its loyal members, enhancing their weekend plans with an unforgettable entertainment experience.

Mr. Pradeep Nidamarthi, Customer Care Associate & Head – Analytics & Loyalty at Shoppers Stop shared their thoughts on the collaboration: “At Shoppers Stop we aim to provide premium experiences to our First Citizen Club members and the exclusive screening of Pushpa 2 in three cities in partnership with Times Prime Purple Carpet was a step towards this endeavour and it was a remarkable success. Our Black card members much appreciated yet another exclusively curated experience.”

Bhimthadi Jatra 2024: Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Traditions of Rural Maharashtra

Pune, 12th December 2024 – The much-awaited Bhimthadi Jatra returns for its 18th edition, promising an unparalleled showcase of Maharashtra’s rural arts, culture, and sustainable innovation. From 20th to 25th December 2024, at the College of Agriculture Ground, Sinchan Nagar, Pune, this iconic event will bring together rural artisans, entrepreneurs, and urban audiences in a vibrant celebration of traditions and modernity.

 This year’s Jatra holds special significance as it marks the 25th Death Anniversary of Padmashree (Late) Shri Appasaheb Pawar, a pioneering agriculturalist renowned for his revolutionary contributions, including the introduction of drip irrigation. In honor of his legacy, a memorial section will be set up at the entrance, highlighting his life and groundbreaking achievements, ensuring that the Jatra remains deeply rooted in agricultural innovation and rural progress.

Expected to attract over 1 lakh visitors, Bhimthadi Jatra 2024 will be a prime platform for promoting rural entrepreneurship and cultural exchange. The event will feature a wide array of exciting highlights, beginning with the Farmers’ Produce Section, which will emphasize “Residue-Free” products, ensuring clear communication regarding the health benefits and sustainability of these items. This section will also showcase GI-tagged products, fresh farm produce, including honey, and other agricultural innovations.

A new Bee and Butterfly Conservation Initiative will introduce an Indigenous Plant Garden, educating visitors on the essential role of pollinators in agriculture and biodiversity.

 The Bhimthadi Select Section will house 30 premium stalls showcasing sustainable textiles, clothing crafted with natural dyes, and handcrafted lifestyle products, reflecting India’s rich artisan heritage. The Swayamsiddha Section, dedicated to women entrepreneurs and self-help groups, will feature items such as bamboo jewelry and clay diyas made by specially-abled children. This section will also highlight FSSAI-certified food products, including millet snacks, pumpkin juice, and wood apple barfi.

For the first time, Telangana Stalls will enrich the Jatra’s cultural tapestry, offering traditional handlooms and authentic cuisine from the region. Another key highlight is the Bara Balutedar Section, which will pay tribute to Maharashtra’s traditional occupational communities. Visitors will witness live demonstrations of rural craftsmanship by artisans such as Chambhars (cobblers), Kumbhars (potters), and Mang (bamboo artisans), providing an immersive experience into Maharashtra’s rural economy.

The food area will continue to be a major attraction, offering authentic Maharashtrian delicacies such as Malvani seafood thalis, Kolhapuri tambda-pandhra rassa, and sweet treats like ukadiche modak and khapri varchi puran poli.
In addition to the exhibits and stalls, the Jatra will host engaging workshops, including a Saree Draping Workshop by Ashwini Narayan, designed to make saree draping fun and accessible for younger audiences.

This year, the #ShareYourPrivilege Campaign will encourage urban audiences especially younger generations to embrace cultural diversity and bridge the rural-urban divide. The event continues its mission to empower women by providing them a platform to showcase their skills and entrepreneurial spirit through handicrafts, textiles, and culinary creations.

Commenting on this Mrs. Sunanda Tai Pawar said “Bhimthadi Jatra is more than just an event; it is a celebration of the heart and soul of rural Maharashtra. This year, as we honor the remarkable legacy of Shri Appasaheb Pawar on his 25th death anniversary, we are reminded of the deep connection between agricultural innovation and sustainable progress. Through this platform, we aim to empower rural artisans and entrepreneurs, fostering a space where tradition and modernity coexist, inspiring both urban and rural communities alike. I invite all to witness this harmonious blend of culture, sustainability, and creativity at Bhimthadi Jatra 2024.”