Author: Rabindra

Festive Season Drives Surge in Indian Real Estate Demand, Record Sales Anticipated

Mumbai, 23rd September 2024 – As the festive season kicks off, the Indian real estate market is poised for record growth, with buyer demand hitting new highs. Traditionally regarded as an auspicious time for investments, this period is marked by heightened activity from both developers and homebuyers alike. Favorable market conditions, including low-interest rates, government incentives, and the rise of first-time homebuyers, are fueling this boom, particularly in prime locations and affordable housing segments. A significant uptick in inquiries and bookings has been reported, as the auspicious periods of Diwali and Dhanteras approach—key moments for home-buying in India. Industry experts believe this surge is set to continue throughout the season, with developers offering tailored schemes to attract buyers.

Shitij Kaushal, Head of mymagnet.io, a channel sales arm of Homesfy Realty Limited, commented on the trend:
“This year, we’re seeing flexible payment plans requiring only 10% to 20% upfront, this was the trend especially around Ganesh Chaturthi. These plans are encouraging buyers to make purchases with minimal down payments—a trend that first gained traction last year. During the previous festive season, property registrations jumped by 30% compared to 2022, with this time being seen as a prime opportunity for purchasing homes and starting new ventures. Developers are in sync with consumer sentiment and have strategically planned new launches to coincide with the festive period.”

According to a report, sales in H1 2024 reached 1,73,241 units across the top 8 cities, marking the highest volume in the past decade. Market sentiment remains optimistic for the second half of the year, as developers prepare to align their offerings with the festive spirit. Additional incentives, such as stamp duty waivers, construction-linked payment plans, and promotional giveaways like gold coins and electronic devices, are expected to be rolled out to entice potential buyers.

Shitij Kaushal further added, “The prediction is that this positive momentum will continue even after the festive season, with developers leveraging value-driven incentives to maintain buyer interest. The Indian real estate sector is set for sustained growth throughout 2024, driven by consumer-friendly schemes, favorable market conditions, and a strong inclination towards homeownership.”

With favorable payment options, rising consumer confidence, and strategic offers from developers, the festive season is projected to solidify the sector’s upward trajectory well into 2025, cementing the Indian real estate market as a key driver of economic growth.

Scrabble Unveils FYLM: A Transformative Mentorship Marketplace

National, 23 September 2024: In a world where potential drifts aimlessly and soaring aspirations get muddled in mediocrity, Scrabble is proud to announce the launch of FYLM: Find Your Legit Mentor—a pioneering mentorship marketplace designed to connect aspiring talent with seasoned industry leaders. Scrabble, the leadership search firm has launched FYLM with a vision to simplify talent evolution, allowing aspirational individuals to save crucial life-years and get the right mentorship at the precise juncture of their career.

While we are all the heroes of our lives, we need the guidance of a mentor to show us the right path. Much like Po’s journey in Kung Fu Panda, where Master Shifu reveals the path to self-discovery, FYLM aims to illuminate the way for individuals seeking to realize their full potential.

Many talented individuals find themselves at a crossroads, filled with ambition yet paralyzed by self-doubt, uncertainty, fear of failure etc. Just like the ships caught amidst the tumultuous sea, talented individuals with high calibre risk drifting away from their goals, without the right mentoring and guidance. FYLM is set to change that narrative by providing a structured platform for mentorship that empowers individuals to take charge of their professional journeys.

FYLM is entirely industry-agnostic, allowing mentees from diverse backgrounds to connect with leaders across different sectors—CXOs, CMOs, CHROs, Founders of successful companies, Strategy Leaders, Operational Leaders, Partners of Venture Capital, and Private Equity Funds among them. Having previously walked the path, each mentor serves as a guiding light, ready to reflect not only limitations but also the vast possibilities that lie ahead.

Emphasising the significance of launching FYLM, Naveen Tiwari, Co-founder of Scrabble, said “My own journey has taught me that while we can strive for greatness, it often takes someone who has walked the path before us to help us uncover our true potential. The right mentor, at the right time in our lives, can help us expand our vision, in addition to skills and competencies, thus saving crucial life-years and growing the impact we can have, multifolds. With FYLM, we aim to ensure that no one has to navigate their journey alone and they can find a reliable mentor, who has already proven their mettle directly in field of their choosing.”

The inception of FYLM arose from the experiences of the Founding team of Scrabble and Jigsaw, where they observed a recurring theme: many candidates struggled to bridge the gap between their aspirations and their current realities. The candidates would often turn to the co-founders, seeking mentorship and guidance to secure prominent jobs at globally leading firms. This inspired the founding team to create FYLM, a platform where mentorship becomes a service— and a clear pathway for growth and development is accessible to one and all.

As Scrabble continues to redefine leadership recruitment by connecting talent with transformational leaders, FYLM stands as a testament to its commitment to empowering individuals on their journeys. By fostering connections between mentors and mentees, Scrabble is not just facilitating professional growth; it is igniting a movement where every individual can become the architect of their own success story.

The three-day ‘Rising with Kindness’ youth summit concludes, students wrap up feeling more empowered

Mumbai/Hyderabad, 23 September 2024: The three-day youth summit ‘Rising with Kindness’ concluded successfully today at Kanha Shanti Vanam – the headquarters of Heartfulness in the outskirts of Hyderabad. The concluding day was graced by Shri Jupally Krishna Rao – Hon’ble Minister for Minister of Tourism, Culture and Excise & Prohibition, Government of Telangana. Also joining were Dr. Hamdan Al Shaer – Deputy Chairman of Zayed International Foundation for the Environment; Mr. Martin Raiser, SVP South Asia, World Bank; Mr. Sushil Ram, Commonwealth Secretariat; Ms. Paula Padrino Vilela, UNCCD; Mr. Shekhar Kapur – Filmmaker; and Ms. Krithi Shetty, Mr. Taha Shah Badussha, Ms. Neeti Goel – Founder, Wht Now, Ms Vrinda and Shivoham Bhatt – Celebrity fitness trainers graced the valedictory session of Rising with Kindness in the Divine Presence of Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission. Following the felicitations, a plenary session with the esteemed dignitaries was the hallmark. The three-days of action-packed sessions concluded through workshops, panel discussion and kindness carnival.

Shri Jupally Krishna Rao – Hon’ble Minister for Minister of Tourism, Culture and Excise & Prohibition, Government of Telangana said, “I congratulate the youth to be part of this beautiful initiative and Rev. Daaji and his entire team for unwavering commitment and nurturing the values of kindness. In a world morphed by competition we should remind ourselves of the core values of kindness, empathy and mutual respect which create a harmonious society and play crucial role in youth development. India is the home to the largest umbers of genZ and millennials which is the backbone for social and environment growth. They must also learn to have sustained kindness for others. Dalai Lama said, “Be kind whenever possible, it is always possible.” As Tourism Minister, I believe kindness has an intrinsic connection, but also exchanging culture, sharing stories and building human connections across borders. Out state is a land of diversity in which culture, history and natural beauty, but what sets us apart is kindness. Rising with Kindness help us strengthen the spirit of hospitality. India showcases to the world the concept o unity in diversity. Sustainable development is the only way to development. Kindness is symbol of courage. Daaji is doing an extraordinary work. As policy makers we understand the importances of programmes like these to create resilient and compassionate societies. Let us all work together for kindness and build stronger communities.”

Rev. Daaji – Guide of Heartfulness & President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission said, “The three days of Rising with Kindness have been wonderful. We must learn how to nourish our spiritual self which comes with meditation in the presence of a sage through Pranahuti. Spirituality is as good as science wherein you are the experimenter who tries to understand the true nature of God. Experience is always better than knowledge. A meditative state gives you excellence in any phase of life. We should rise above religion (as religions have always divided mankind) and become spiritual and create a society of spiritual giants.”

The participating youth got the best out of activities planned yoga sessions to sports, Forest Walks, Ultimate Frisbee, Green Kanha Cross Country Run, and Minute to Win It Challenge by Decathlon. Other breakout sessions revolved around ‘Eminent Change-makers’ and a concluding workshop called ‘The Kindness Ambassador in me’ by Dr. Veronique Nicolai. The program convener was Dr. Nivedita Shreyans Director youth programs Heartfulness Institute.

Panasonic announces recipients of 9th edition of its Ratti Chattr Scholarship Program

New Delhi, 23 September 2024: Panasonic Life Solutions India, a diversified technology company, successfully concluded the ninth edition of its flagship scholarship program, Ratti Chattr, in collaboration with NGO partner, Buddy4Study. The scholarship program aims to recognize and empower young future leaders by providing financial assistance to select undergraduate students to pursue higher education from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) across the country.

Speaking at the virtual felicitation ceremony, Mr. Manish Sharma, Chairman, Panasonic Life Solutions India & SA said, “Through our Ratti Chattr scholarship program, we have consistently supported the future of bright young minds. Since the program’s inception till now, we have supported 253 students and we continue to our commitment towards boosting avenues for education and human development. Many congratulations to the 10 scholars for this year. It’s not only a scholarship but an ecosystem that we cocreate – with opportunities to connect, attend training sessions, get hands-on experience and network.”

Further, Mr. Tadashi Chiba, MD & CEO, PLSIND added “We are delighted to announce the scholarship recipients for this batch. The Panasonic Ratti Chhatr scholarship program has played a big role in the scholars’ lives in the past years. In fact, one of the scholars from last year has joined Panasonic as well. Now as part of the 9th edition, we are proud to support the next generation of leaders. Looking forward to seeing them make a positive impact in their respective fields.”

Mrs. Pooja Garg Khan, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Communications said, “This year, for the Panasonic Ratti Chhatr scholarship program, we received almost 1000 application submissions, 167 students qualified and after rigorous screening, online test and interview, we have selected 10 scholars. With the scholarship covering around 70% of the tuition fee for the four years of the engineering course at the students’ respective IITs, we hope that the financial burden on the students will lessen and I hope this accelerates their growth in all aspects manifold.”

HCGMCC Launches Vansham Clinic To Raise Hereditary Cancer Awareness & Offer Lifesaving Family Screening

Nashik, Sept 23: Nashik’s leading cancer speciality hospital – HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) has launched Vansham Clinic to address the growing need for hereditary cancer awareness and early intervention. This new clinic offers specialized screening and preventive measures for individuals with a family history of cancer. With the rise in cancer cases in India, this initiative aims to bridge the knowledge gap and provide tailored healthcare solutions focusing on early detection and personalized treatment plans, potentially saving lives and reducing the future burden of cancer.

“India is witnessing an alarming rise in cancer cases, with over 1.4 million new cases reported annually. A significant portion of these cases are driven by genetic predisposition. Research indicates that individuals with a family history of certain cancers, such as breast, ovarian and colorectal cancers, have a 5 to 10 per cent higher risk of developing cancer themselves. This makes hereditary screening crucial for early detection and timely intervention. Our attempt with the launch of Vansham Clinic is to address the growing need for awareness and management of hereditary cancers. Many families remain unaware of their genetic predisposition, missing crucial opportunities for early diagnosis and intervention. The clinic aims to close this gap by offering advanced genetic counselling, targeted screenings, and preventive healthcare for those at risk,” says Dr Raj Nagarkar, MD & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC).

Vansham clinic operates with a highly specialized team, including experienced genetic counsellors and oncologists, ensuring personalized care from initial consultation to long-term follow-up. Appointments are available for individuals and families, providing a holistic approach that prioritizes education, prevention and patient empowerment.

“At Vansham Clinic, we will provide targeted screenings focused on hereditary cancers, including breast, ovarian and colorectal cancers. Additionally, our team of medical professionals will offer lifestyle counselling to help patients make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle choices to lower cancer risk. Finally, we will also do comprehensive follow-up care with on-going surveillance and preventive care for high-risk individuals,” adds Dr Nagarkar.

Early detection is crucial in the fight against cancer. Studies show that the five-year survival rate for most cancers increases dramatically when diagnosed at an early stage. For instance, the survival rate for breast cancer patients detected early can be as high as 99 percent, compared to just 27 per cent for those diagnosed at later stages.

“By detecting cancer early, we can offer less invasive treatments, reduce healthcare costs and ultimately, improve patient outcomes. With the introduction of Vansham Clinic, our mission is to ensure that high-risk individuals receive the surveillance and preventive care they need to stay one step ahead of cancer,” concludes Dr Nagarkar.

88% of Employees Say HRMS Platforms Are Key to Streamlining HR Operations, Survey Finds

National, 23rd September 2024 – Genius Consultants Limited, a leading Workforce Solutions & HR Services Provider has released its latest Digipoll survey report, underscoring the pivotal role Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS) play in enhancing organizational efficiency in today’s technology-driven era. The comprehensive survey provides insightful data on employee perspectives regarding HRMS, advanced analytics, and the future of HR operations.
The survey reveals that a remarkable 88% of employees believe HRMS platforms are essential for streamlining and improving the efficiency of HR operations within organizations. This overwhelming consensus highlights the growing recognition of HRMS as a cornerstone of modern HR practices, with only 7% opposing the practice. The widespread acceptance reflects a collective understanding that HRMS platforms are essential for streamlining processes, managing talent more effectively, and adapting to the evolving demands of today’s workforce. It marks a clear indication that integrating advanced HR technologies is becoming a standard practice for forward-thinking organizations.

 In an era where data-driven decisions are crucial, the survey found that 75% of employees view the integration of HR analytics as a vital component for informed talent management strategies. This indicates a strong belief in the power of analytics to drive more effective decision-making processes. Only 17% of employees hold a different view suggesting that traditional methods should take precedence over data-driven strategies, expressing concerns about the implementation or interpretation of analytics in HR.

 Employee engagement and retention are also significant areas of focus. The survey shows that 75% of employees are confident that incorporating advanced analytics into HR processes will substantially boost engagement and retention rates. In today’s time, employee engagement plays a huge role in employee retention parameters, as the current generation views the office culture, adaptable work environment and interactive openness in organizations as much more valuable than basic pay scale. Despite this, 14% of respondents do not agree with the same possibly due to concerns about the accuracy or relevance of the data, the potential for misuse, or a preference for more traditional HR approaches.

 Regarding the support for remote and hybrid workforces, 70% of employees feel that their organization’s current HRMS adequately meets the needs of such flexible work arrangements. However, 22% of employees feel that current systems fall short in this aspect, pointing to a potential area for improvement. This significant minority highlights a potential gap in the system’s capabilities or its adaptability to the changing work environment.

 Predictive analytics is another key area of interest. The report indicates that 75% of employees find predictive analytics a valuable tool for anticipating workforce trends and needs. However, the report also notes that 18% of employees are not convinced of the utility of predictive analytics showcasing reservations about the accuracy or reliability of predictive models, or the practical application of the predictions in real-world scenarios.

 Commenting on the same, Mr. R P Yadav, Chairman & Managing Director, Genius Consultants Limited, said, “Our latest survey underscores a critical shift in the role of Human Resource Management Systems in today’s technology-driven landscape. With 88% of employees recognizing the importance of HRMS platforms for operational efficiency, and 75% supporting the use of advanced analytics to enhance talent management, it’s clear that organizations must embrace these tools to stay competitive. As we navigate an increasingly remote and hybrid work environment, the insights from this survey highlight both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. We are committed to supporting businesses as they adapt to these changes and harness the full potential of HR technology to drive future success.”

 The survey also sheds light on future implications of HRMS advancements. It reveals that 68% of employees believe that with the evolution of HRMS technologies, there might be a decline in manual operations, potentially leading to job cuts and layoffs. Conversely, 18% of employees do not anticipate such outcomes.

Azerbaijan achieved a historic milestone in a prestigious international ranking

India, 23rd September 2024: The Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA), committed to advancing digital transformation and the IT ecosystem in Azerbaijan, is actively working to attract startups and tech companies from India and other countries to relocate to Azerbaijan. By fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and technology with leading innovators, IDDA aims to enhance the country’s digital capabilities and expand its potential.

At a recent press conference dedicated to the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI), it was announced that Azerbaijan has reached a historic milestone in its digital government journey. The country has advanced by 9 positions since 2022, securing the 74th place among 193 member countries featured in the report. In the latest edition of the report, Azerbaijan has joined the prestigious group of countries with a “Very High EGDI” rating by receiving a record high score of 0.7607 points (on a scale ranging from zero to one), placing itself among the top-performing nations in digital government development.

UN’s E-Government Development Index, published biannually, evaluates the progress of digital government across all member states. The 2024 edition of the index covers data up to May of 2023.

Azerbaijan has made progress across key areas of the report including online public services, eParticipation and the telecommunication infrastructure. The EGDI states that the country’s performance has significantly improved showing a growth of 21% in both the Online Services Index (OSI) and the Telecommunication Infrastructure Index (TII). For the first time, Azerbaijan also achieved significant progress in the eParticipation Index (EPI) with a remarkable 28% increase, propelling it from the 98th to the 88th rank.

This leap in rankings reflects the successful implementation of Azerbaijan’s Digital Development Strategy that happened over the past two years. A significant contribution to this success was made by the coordinated efforts of the relevant state institutions, knowledge exchange with international experts and the rollout of various digital government solutions. Notably, the large-scale “Online Azerbaijan” project, which ensures broadband coverage across the entire country, have been instrumental in driving this progress.

Dr. Joseph Sunny Calls for Disability-Inclusive Telehealth and Rehabilitation Services at VirtueCare Forum in New Delhi

Kochi, September, 23rd 2024: Dr. Joseph Sunny, Honorary Secretary, All India Occupational Therapists Association (AIOTA) and Director of Prayatna, recently participated as a distinguished panelist at the Policy and Practice Forum: Approaches to Delivering Disability-Inclusive Virtual Healthcare. Hosted by the VirtueCare Network at the Melbourne Global Centre in New Delhi, this event is part of the Asia and Pacific Outlook Series, dedicated to advancing the inclusivity of virtual healthcare in India.

Dr. Joseph Sunny had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders in the field, including Carly Partridge, Minister Counsellor at the Australian High Commission in India; Professor Nathan Grills, Senior Research Advisor at the Australia-India Institute and Public Health Physician; Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India; Dr. Muhammad Ashil, National Professional Officer at WHO, New Delhi; and Associate Professor Emma George, Program Director of Occupational Therapy at the University of Adelaide.

“In India, telehealth is becoming essential in maintaining continuity of care for hundreds of thousands. Tele-rehabilitation should also be integrated to support people with disabilities, ensuring the presence of rehabilitation professionals in these services. By maximizing inclusivity in virtual healthcare and leveraging technology, we can enhance rehabilitation and disability services,” said Dr. Joseph Sunny.

The forum showcased the VirtuCare Project, which aims to improve virtual healthcare for people with disabilities by building on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. This project involves collaboration between the University of Melbourne, E-Sanjeevani, The George Institute for Global Health, and other key partners to develop inclusive virtual healthcare solutions. Dr. Joseph Sunny is excited about the potential impact of these discussions on the future of disability-inclusive healthcare.