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Palo Alto Networks Enhances Cybersecurity with Cortex XSIAM and Autonomous Copilots

Mumbai, India., 10th May 2024 — Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW) today shared its vision for fully autonomous security. As part of that announcement, the global cybersecurity leader introduced three new copilots that combine the power of generative AI (GenAI) with a proprietary collection of high-precision cybersecurity technologies. Strata™ Copilot, Prisma® Cloud Copilot, and Cortex® Copilot are seamlessly embedded in each of Palo Alto Networks’ leading security platforms, respectively. These next-generation assistants, powered by Precision AI™, help eliminate complexity in daily operations and drastically improve productivity for security teams.

“When GenAI went mainstream, we had a vision that it could be an incredible tool for autonomous security — we saw beyond the capability of simply providing answers, it could drive actions. To fulfill its promise, more innovation was needed,” said Lee Klarich, chief product officer, Palo Alto Networks. “By combining GenAI with other key technologies, we’ve improved precision and enabled actionability. This is the first step toward realizing our vision, brought to life via our Precision AI-powered copilots, radically improving security team productivity and security outcomes.”

GenAI holds tremendous promise for addressing specialized security tasks when combined with key technologies such as prepackaged automation, machine learning, strong guardrails, and fine-tuning of models. Precision AI is Palo Alto Networks’ proprietary, innovative approach to AI that combines GenAI along with machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) capabilities to create more effective assistants, leveraging comprehensive data and proven playbooks to offer guided automation and actionable insights. With Precision AI, copilots become more effective assistants by leveraging rich data and proven playbooks to offer actionable insights, automation, and guided actions.

“Generative AI promises to help security teams be more effective in their job through natural language interfaces,” said Scott Moser, SVP and CISO at Sabre. “The ability for more team members to query firewalls and all of the security tools using a natural language interface is extremely valuable in ensuring a very quick response to security threats, as well as getting better answers to the questions they ask.”

Strata Copilot, Prisma Cloud Copilot, and Cortex Copilot use the power and simplicity of natural language to help security analysts quickly and easily find, understand, and stop threats before they turn into trouble. Seamlessly integrated across Palo Alto Networks’ industry-leading network, cloud, and security operations platforms, these copilots guide analysts through every step of their day-to-day tasks, enabling them to investigate incidents faster, optimize their workflows, proactively stay ahead of emerging threats, and take action.

Palo Alto Networks Platform Copilot integration:

● Strata Copilot works with the Strata Network Security platform, including both SASE and NGFW deployments, and is accessed through Strata Cloud Manager.

● Prisma Cloud Copilot supports the entire Prisma Cloud, Code to Cloud™ platform, assisting in risk prioritization, remediation, threat detection and reporting.

● Cortex Copilot is delivered through the Cortex XSIAM® platform, enabling a more efficient and effective SOC.

Palo Alto Networks’ vision is to deliver true learning assistants where every interaction enhances the capabilities of the copilot. The drive toward autonomous cybersecurity will empower security teams with faster, more accurate knowledge and insights when needed and enable copilots to:

● Answer product knowledge questions in the context of your environment.

● Explore and visualize app, user, and threat activity.

● Answer targeted questions about your environment.

● Guide configuration to the optimal state.

● Search for details around an IoC (e.g., IP address, FQDN, URL, domain, hash, etc.).

● Assess the impact and coverage of a threat or CVE.

● Perform complex remediation actions initiated with simple, natural language requests.

● Assist in quick product navigation.

● Open support cases with issue details automatically collected and proactively submitted.

Palo Alto Networks new copilots powered by Precision AI are available in private preview. Read the blog to learn more about how the copilots will revolutionize customers’ responses to the latest threats.

GE Aerospace Launches GE Aerospace Foundation

May 10, 2024, Bengaluru – GE Aerospace recently announced the launch of the GE Aerospace Foundation, celebrating a new chapter that builds on the more than 100 year-legacy of the previous GE Foundation. The GE Aerospace Foundation’s philanthropic strategy and programs will help fulfill the company’s purpose to “lift people up” in GE Aerospace communities, with a focus on workforce development, disaster relief and amplifying the efforts of GE Aerospace employees.

In South Asia, GE Aerospace Foundation will continue to work with local partners to support disaster relief, education and healthcare for underprivileged communities. South Asia has received US $ 1.2 million in total Foundation related giving over the past 10 years which includes grants and related programming. These have benefited affected communities in Bangalore, Pune and other parts of South Asia.

“The responsibility to support and strengthen the communities where we live and work is one that GE Aerospace takes seriously,” said GE Aerospace Chairman and CEO H. Lawrence Culp, Jr. “The launch of the GE Aerospace Foundation will help transform local communities and develop a stronger workforce for the future by leveraging our unique expertise as a global leading aerospace company. We are proud to carry on a 100-year legacy of positive impact, and I look forward to seeing the GE Aerospace Foundation continue to make a difference for many years to come.”

The Foundation’s programs will focus on three core areas and represent more than $22 million in new programming through 2030. Efforts will include cultivating a robust and diverse workforce in the manufacturing and engineering industries, investing in humanitarian and community programs that have demonstrated efficacy in global impact, and amplifying employee engagement worldwide.

“We are immensely proud to oversee this next chapter of philanthropic support with a focus on a stronger future workforce, disaster relief and amplifying employee giving,” said GE Aerospace Foundation President Meghan Thurlow. “We look forward to expanding our work supporting communities around the globe and advancing the development of a more diverse and skilled industry.”

Next Engineers and STEM education

The Foundation has committed $20 million through 2030 to expand Next Engineers, a global program working to increase the diversity of young workers in engineering, bridging the gap from middle school to college. The Next Engineers program in has reached nearly 18,000 students to date. The GE Aerospace Foundation announced today that it will extend the successful Cincinnati program through 2028. The Foundation also announced it will expand the Next Engineers program to four additional cities, including Warsaw, Poland with additional sites to be announced in coming years.

Workforce development

In response to growing aviation and manufacturing workforce demands, the GE Aerospace Foundation will donate $2 million to support workforce development programs in geographies where we live and work.

Disaster relief and humanitarian efforts

Drawing on GE Aerospace’s people, technology, and other resources, the Foundation announced a $2 million commitment to disaster relief and humanitarian aid, including a $1 million partnership with Airlink in recognition of the important role aviation plays in disaster response.

Matching Gifts program

The Foundation is also proud to continue its Matching Gifts program, bolstering employee efforts in their personal philanthropy, and the STAR Awards program providing competitive scholarships to children of eligible GE Aerospace employees around the world. GE created the concept of corporate matching gifts in 1954, with donations and matching exceeding $1.5 billion since inception. The STAR Awards program has provided more than $21 million in financial support through more than 15,000 awards since its launch in 1984.

The creation of the GE Aerospace Foundation follows the launch of GE Aerospace as an independent public company on April 2, 2024, that is defining the future of flight.

Celebrating Inclusivity: PVR INOX and Ncpedp Co-host First Day First Show of Srikanth

10th May 2024 PVR INOX, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India is proud to announce its association with The National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) to co-host a pan-India first-day first show of the much-anticipated film “Srikanth”. The groundbreaking movie, set to release in cinemas on 10th May 2024, marks a significant milestone as “Srikanth” becomes the first all-inclusive Hindi film, that not only has more than 70 actors with disabilities in its star cast but is also available in accessible formats for the Visually and Hearing impaired; in compliance with the recent mandate by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Having started its journey to make its cinemas accessible for people with disabilities in 2018; PVR INOX is celebrating the advent of accessible movies in the country of this special show at just Rs. 99 per person.

Srikanth is a Hindi-language biographical film on the life of Srikanth Bolla, a visually-impaired Indian industrialist and the founder of Bollant Industries. It is directed by Tushar Hiranandani and stars Rajkummar Rao in the eponymous role with Jyothika, Alaya F, and Sharad Kelkar. Srikanth is a powerful narrative that beautifully portrays the resilience of people with disabilities. This resonates deeply with NCPEDP, India’s leading cross-disability advocacy organization dedicated to creating a more inclusive and accessible society. Patrons can book tickets for the special screening of “Srikanth” for the 10 AM Show on May 10 @ INR 99 through the PVR App, INOX App, PVR Website, and INOX Website.

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Gautam Dutta, CEO- Of revenue and Operations, PVR INOX Ltd. said, “Hosting the special screening of ‘Srikanth,’ India’s first all-inclusive Hindi movie having actors with disabilities and releasing with Audio Description for the Visually Impaired and subtitles for Hearing Impaired, being screened in our wheelchair-friendly cinemas is a significant milestone for us. We are delighted to collaborate with National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) to curate a first-day show of this inspirational movie embracing individuals from diverse backgrounds and abilities. At PVR INOX, we are deeply committed to creating inclusive and accessible cinematic experiences for patrons with locomotor disabilities, visual impairment, and hearing impairment.”

PVR embarked upon its Accessible Cinema program in early 2018. This involved a careful evaluation of various kinds of constraints that differently-abled people faced and finding solutions to enable them to enjoy films. Cinemas, since then have been made accessible for people with locomotor disabilities either by design or with the help of assistive equipment, removable seats have been installed to accommodate persons who are unable to move from their wheelchairs. For the hearing impaired, we have been making sub-titled shows easily discoverable on all booking platforms.

However, the company continued to face challenges for the visually impaired since even though there existed an arrangement with a Technology Company to stream audio descriptions through their app XL Cinema, there were no audio-described films except those done by NGOs, etc. However, with the Government’s latest ruling, doors have opened up for accessible entertainment in the country.

Speaking about the partnership, Mr. Arman Ali, Executive Director, National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) said, “Our partnership with PVR INOX for the exclusive screening of ‘Srikanth’ is a pivotal moment in our mission to promote equality for people with disabilities in all spheres of life. We appreciate PVR INOX’s proactive measures in enhancing accessibility in movie content and theatre infrastructure, thereby promoting broader inclusivity. Over the past 25 years, NCPEDP has been a staunch advocate for addressing the concerns of disabled individuals through a rights-based and gender-sensitive approach. We take pride in the government’s acknowledgment of the necessity for cinema accessibility standards, which open up the theatrical experience to a demographic that was previously excluded.”

IREDA incorporates subsidiary in GIFT City, Gujarat

Mumbai, 10th May 2024: Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary in the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) located in GIFT City, Gujarat. Named “IREDA Global Green Energy Finance IFSC Limited,” the subsidiary was officially incorporated on 7th May 2024, after receiving the No Objection letter from the Reserve Bank of India on 8th February 2024, to setup the finance company in IFSC GIFT City.

Shri Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman & Managing Director of IREDA, said that IREDA’s presence in GIFT City signifies a momentous step in its mission to pioneer innovative approaches to green financing. This subsidiary not only positions IREDA to extend its global reach but also acts as an offshore platform for securing competitive funding to drive the renewable energy sector’s growth, aligning with the Government of India’s ambitious ‘Panchamrit’ targets.

He added that IREDA’s entry into the IFSC is anticipated to unlock fresh business prospects and establish its global footprint in the renewable energy sector. This strategic step is in line with our vision of facilitating sustainable development through renewable energy investments, both domestically and internationally. With IREDA’s presence in the IFSC, we anticipate greater access to innovative financing alternatives and enhanced collaboration with international investors, encouraging the advancement of renewable energy projects in the country and abroad.

Herbochem Unveils ‘+91 ASHWAGANDHA’: World’s First Tech-Optimized Full Spectrum Extract for Mental Wellness

10th May 2024: Herbochem, one of the oldest and most trusted manufacturers of phytochemicals with over 50 years of industry prowess, proudly introduces ‘+91 ASHWAGANDHA’, a revolutionary nutraceutical product that marks a groundbreaking advancement in the world of Ashwagandha extracts. Expertly developed through an innovative manufacturing process, +91 ASHWAGANDHA is designed to unlock the full potential of Ashwagandha, the world’s first full-spectrum extract focused on managing technology-related mental illness. + 91 Ashwagandha® stands out from the rest with its unique extraction technique that not only captures the active compounds but also maximizes the natural macro-nutrients like Potassium and Magnesium offering a comprehensive solution for technology nutrition and mental wellness. With +91 ASHWAGANDHA®, Herbochem ushers in a new era of holistic well-being, empowering individuals to thrive in the face of modern-day stressors and embrace a balanced, resilient lifestyle.

“We take immense pride in offering this proprietary, branded product – +91 ASHWAGANDHA, meticulously standardized to 7% Withanolides through state-of-the-art HPLC analysis. Our extract is a masterful blend of Ashwagandha roots, leaves, and a water-extracted fraction, carefully combined in an optimized ratio that we fondly refer to as the ‘golden ratio.’ This unique formulation is engineered to address the growing challenges of technology-related mental illness, providing a natural solution for combating stress, anxiety, and depression exacerbated by our increasingly digital lifestyles,” stated Mr. Karthik Kondepudi, Partner at Herbochem.

In a testament to Herbochem’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, the company conducted rigorous clinical studies, comparing +91 ASHWAGANDHA® with leading brands in the market. The results were resoundingly positive, solidifying Herbochem’s confidence in this groundbreaking product.

Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb revered in Ayurvedic traditions for centuries, is renowned for its ability to promote balanced mental and physical well-being. However, Herbochem recognized a gap in the market a need for innovation, and a focus on optimizing Ashwagandha extracts for specific indications. Thus, +91 ASHWAGANDHA® was born, a result of tireless efforts to address the growing demand for natural solutions to manage mental health concerns. An imbalance in mental health can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Research on Ashwagandha’s root, leaves, and aqueous extract, which contains oligosaccharides, revealed beneficial effects on mental health. We created a full-spectrum Ashwagandha extract, combining the plant’s root, leaves, and aqueous extract in an optimized ratio. This natural product aims to manage common mental health concerns effectively.

IT Sector Witnesses Resurgence in Workforce Management Amidst Skill Transformation

As of FY23-24, India’s technology industry employed 5.39 million individuals, a testament to its significant workforce contribution. However, driven by multiple factors like economic slowdown, automation, restructuring, and decreased discretionary spending; in the past few quarters, IT companies have experienced a decline in headcount. Interestingly, amidst these challenges, on the positive side, India’s IT sector is witnessing quite a resurgence in contractual hiring.

WhatsApp Image 2024-05-09 at 14.51.34_1eaeb736Notably, sectors such as IT, consumer durables, ecommerce, GCCs, and retail are experiencing significant demand for contract positions with a 40-50% increase in these positions between 2023 and 2024. The most sought-after skill sets in the technology staffing domain encompass Google Cloud, data analytics, AI/ML, application development, ERP, networking, GenAI, and cybersecurity. Additionally, there is a nearly 30% average demand for UI/UX designers, data scientists, data analysts, etc.

While these roles will continue to flourish, some traditional roles like Computer Programming (C/Java), Web Development, Mobile Development, Cloud Computation, Web/Application Development, and Cloud Architecture are likely to be redefined.

Another interesting trend is that the IT sector today offers a range of roles that are resilient to economic downturns. Profiles like DevOps, Cybersecurity, AI & ML, and Data Science, among others, are poised to maintain high demand in the coming 2-3 years. Furthermore, recruitment for tech roles within nontech sectors such as telecom, banking, and financial services, insurance (BFSI), retail and e-commerce, and healthcare is anticipated to surge at a minimum of 10-12% on average.

As AI continues to accelerate disruption at an unprecedented pace, the imperative for continuous workforce upskilling becomes increasingly evident and consequential. Over the past decade, there have been many initiatives like industry-academia collaborations, the government’s Digital India and Skill India interventions, corporates prioritizing upskilling, etc., which have been instrumental in driving the skilling agenda.

However, we also still have the largest cohort of tech professionals equipped with traditional skill sets that are witnessing declining demand due to the disruptive forces of AI, robotization, and evolving skill requirements. In light of this evolving landscape, there is a critical need for interventions like effective upskilling, retention strategies, and succession plans. Organizations, in particular, must adopt a deliberate and proactive approach towards fostering skills and capabilities, particularly in the realm of AI, to effectively navigate this transformative era.

Commenting on the IT sector hiring scenario, Sachin Alug, CEO, of NLB Services said “Despite the recent turbulence in the technology ecosystem, the resurgence in contractual hiring and the surge in talent demand for emerging tech roles, both in tech and non-tech companies, heralds a new dawn for the sector. As we navigate through the disruptions brought by AI and automation, organizations, educational institutions and governing bodies need to collaborate in tandem to foster opportunities and create a robust pool of skilled talent for the future.”

Narayan Seva Sansthan’s First Modular Artificial Limb Camp in Guwahati on May 12

Guwahati, 10th May 2024: National Award-winning renowned NGO, Narayan Seva Sansthan from Udaipur, Rajasthan is organizing ‘Free Artificial Limb Camp for the Welfare of Differently-Abled’ for the first time in Guwahati, Assam. The event will be held on Sunday, May 12 at Aashi Apsara Hall, Paltan Bazaar, Guwahati.

The Director Trustee of the Sansthan, Devendra Chaubisa, revealed Sansthan’s steadfast commitment to liberating individuals who have become Differently-Abled due to accidents or illnesses, freeing them from a life of disability. Inspired by the vision of Padma Shri awardee and founder Kailash Manav, Sansthan has been serving humanity for the past 39 years. With a resolution to assist the differently-abled individuals in Assam, a large-scale free Narayan Artificial Limb Measurement Camp will be held at Aashi Apsara, GS Road, Manipuri Basti, Paltan Bazaar, Guwahati, from 8 am to 6 pm on Sunday, May 12th. The camp will be officially inaugurated by Assam Governor Shri Gulab Chand Kataria at 9 am on May 12.

Chaubisa explained during the press conference held at the Press Club that during the camp, the specially trained and experienced prosthetic and orthotics doctors’ team from Sansthan will assess the differently-abled patients. They will conduct organized casting for lightweight and durable artificial limbs, taking precise measurements. Approximately two months later, Sansthan will organize a modular artificial limb distribution camp to provide them with a free fitting.

He mentioned that registrations for more than 625 individuals have been completed thus far, with an expectation of attendance from over 800 people at the camp.

The camp coordinator and in-charge, Achal Singh Bhati, informed that the patients and their families attending the camp will be provided with complimentary meals, tea, and snacks. During this event, the Sansthan’s authorities unveiled the camp’s poster. Bhati also mentioned that distinguished personalities and various community groups from Guwahati have been invited. More than 30 organizations, including the Marwari Sammelan of Northeast, Marwari Youth Forum of Northeast, Shri Guwahati Goushala, Agrawal Sabha, Maheshwari Sabha, Shwetambar Jain Terapanth Sabha, all their Women’s Wings, Shri Digambar Jain, Rotary Club, Haryana Charitable Trust, Bihar Foundation, Brahmin Sabha, Shri Guru Singh Sabha, and others, are affiliated with Sansthan as voluntary partners.

Bhagwan Prasad Gaur, the Media and Public Relations Officer of Sansthan urged the differently-abled individuals to avail maximum benefits by participating in this camp. He emphasized that those interested in participating should bring their Aadhaar card, disability certificate, and two photos showcasing their disability.

Since 1985, Narayan Seva Sansthan has been working with the ethos of ‘Serving Humanity is Serving the Divine’ (Nar Seva, Narayan Seva). The founder, Kailash Manav, was honored with the Padma Shri award by the President of India for his exemplary service to humanity. Under the leadership of President Prashant Agarwal, Sansthan has strengthened millions of differently-abled individuals mentally, physically, and financially through medical, educational, skill development, and sports academies, integrating them into mainstream society. In the year 2023, Prashant Agarwal was conferred with the National Award for his outstanding contributions. Sansthan has facilitated over 41,200 artificial limb fittings to date. Now, Sansthan is committed to providing free artificial limbs to differently-abled individuals in Assam, aiming to restart their stalled lives on a significant scale.

IFFCO & Marut Drones Tie-Up for Drone Spraying Over 5 Lakh Acre Farm Land in AP & Telangana

10th May 2024 Hyderabad: In a significant move towards revolutionizing agricultural practices in India, the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) has entered a strategic partnership with Marut Drones to undertake drone spray operations across an extensive area spanning up to 5 lakh acres. This collaboration marks a pivotal step towards enhancing agricultural productivity and efficiency in the states of Andhra Pradesh (AP) and Telangana.

Under the terms of the agreement, Marut Drones will be employing state-of-the-art drone technology to administer a range of agricultural inputs developed by IFFCO Agri-products. This initiative aims to optimize crop yields while minimizing environmental impact, ultimately contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

One of the key highlights of this tie-up is the creation of demand for rural entrepreneurs who have already invested in drone technology. By providing drones as a service (DAAS) for farmers, this collaboration empowers local communities and fosters self-employment opportunities. Additionally, individuals keen on acquiring agricultural drones can avail themselves of government subsidies, facilitating their participation in the initiative and enabling them to offer drone services to farmers on a pay-per-acre basis.

DAAS enables farmers to access drone technology through rural drone entrepreneurs at a per-acre cost, ensuring affordability and accessibility even for small-scale farmers. Furthermore, drone owners and service providers can enroll with Marut to receive incentives for spraying IFFCO products on every acre.

Commenting on the partnership, Co-founder and CEO of Marut Drones Prem Kumar emphasized the transformative role of technology in modern agriculture stating, “This collaboration signifies a paradigm shift in farming practices, allowing farmers to minimize direct contact with pesticides, thereby safeguarding their health. Furthermore, the utilization of drones addresses labor shortages by completing tasks in a fraction of the time it would take manually, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.”

The IFFCO & Marut Drones tie-up underscores a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability in agriculture, paving the way for a more prosperous and resilient farming ecosystem. By harnessing the power of drone technology, this collaboration seeks to empower farmers, drive economic growth, and ensure food security for future generations.

Lotus Electronics Presents: Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Twin & Win Contest

10th May 2024 – Lotus Electronics, the largest electronics retail chain in Central India, is thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day with our “Twin & Win” contest! This heartwarming contest invites participants to twin with their moms by wearing matching outfits and stand a chance to WIN a fabulous hair dryer!

How to Enter:

• Twin with Mom: Get creative and coordinate matching outfits with your mom to showcase your special bond.
• Capture the Moment: Take a photo together flaunting your matching attire and smiles.
• Share on Social Media: Share your heartwarming photo on your Instagram or Facebook story and tag @lotuselectronics to complete your entry.

Terms & Conditions:

• The “Twin & Win” contest is a digital initiative hosted by Lotus Electronics.
• Campaign Duration: May 5th – May 12th, 2024.
• To participate, post your picture on Instagram or Facebook story mentioning @lotuselectronics.
• 5 lucky winners will be selected via a random lucky draw to receive an exclusive hair dryer.
• Join us in celebrating the cherished bond between mothers and their children with Lotus Electronics’ “Twin & Win” contest. Don’t miss this opportunity to win exciting prizes and create unforgettable memories with your mom!