25, Apr 2024
The Content Lab announces strategic restructuring to enhance integrated Creative
Mumbai, 25th April 2024 – In response to the evolving needs of the digital landscape and to better serve our clients’ diverse requirements, The Content Lab announced a strategic restructuring initiative that brings different solutions under focussed silos; Stir (Digital & Creative Agency), Carbon (Production backbone for TVCs/DVCs) and H2O (essential, scalable and snackable content creation – think Reels, Shorts & YouTube always on). This transformation underscores our commitment to delivering creative content solutions.
As part of this restructuring, the three verticals, Stir, Carbon, and H2O will operate under a unified umbrella, The Content Lab, enabling seamless integration of services and enhanced efficiency. By leveraging the collective expertise of our multidisciplinary teams, we are poised to offer a comprehensive suite of solutions that spans from concept development to execution across various digital platforms.
“At The Content Lab, we recognize the evolving nature of the digital landscape and this restructuring will allow for a more efficient content-first approach for brands,” said Vaibhav Mehta, Founder and CEO. “This restructuring initiative will create a greater focus for each vertical, stronger collaboration between teams, and sharper results for brands”.
The newly restructured entity will enable clients to access a wide array of services seamlessly, including creative strategy, scalable content creation, digital marketing, campaign conceptualization, branding, ad-film production, and more.
“With our integrated approach, clients can expect a seamless experience from concept to execution, enabling them to achieve their marketing objectives with maximum impact,” added Supriya Sehgal, Co-founder and COO.
The restructuring also reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of creativity by encouraging greater cross-functional collaboration.
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- By Rabindra
25, Apr 2024
Ethical Dilemmas in Engineering: Navigating Moral Challenges in the Field
Author: Er. Koneru Satyanarayana, President, KL Deemed to be University
The field of engineering requires engineering professionals to apply creative solutions to complex challenges. In the realm of engineering, where innovation and advancement are pivotal, ethical dilemmas often arise, challenging the moral compass of engineering professionals. In modern times, when environmental sustainability is the focus of every industry, engineering is the most affected field. Environmental sustainability is one of the most pertinent questions and the biggest cause of ethical dilemmas for engineers. To develop and follow sustainable practices, data privacy, etc., like dilemmas force engineering professionals to navigate the complex areas between what is technically possible and what is morally correct.
Environmentally Sustainable technology and Practises
One of the biggest ethical dilemmas for engineers in recent times is environmental sustainability. Climate change has become a palpable reality that requires urgent redressal for continued life on Earth. Environmental sustainable technologies and practises are need of the hour. Engineers are under pressure to develop eco-friendly technologies and practices. This poses an ethical dilemma for engineering professionals as there is a thin line between green technologies and economic viability. Developing eco-friendly technologies using electricity, renewable sources, or sustainable practices like using eco-friendly raw materials can be expensive. Engineers face the dilemma of balancing sustainability with economic feasibility.
Privacy and Data Security
In the modern digital world, engineers are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge technologies that collect, store and analyze vast amounts of personal data. The privacy and security of such data is of paramount significance. Thus, the data privacy and security of data becomes another critical ethical dilemma. The ethical dilemma lies in protecting the data while applying it for benefits like improving healthcare systems or enhancing end-user experience. The dilemma lies in maintaining a balance between innovation and safeguarding user’s privacy.
Artificial Intelligence
The advent of artificial intelligence has introduced an array of ethical concerns. Engineering professionals developing artificial intelligence struggle with the questions of bias and fairness. As artificial intelligence technology develops, there are concerns about biases in the data. The machine algorithms, if not efficiently developed, can propel or even increase societal bias present in the training data. This proposes a myriad of ethical concerns for engineers. Though the path of artificial intelligence development predicts very positive results. However, handling such technological concerns requires a deep understanding of technology and its ethical implications for engineering professionals.
The Role of Education
The role of education is critical in equipping engineering professionals with the necessary ethical skills to navigate through complex ethical dilemmas. Higher educational institutes must emphasize the importance of ethical standards and consideration. However, engineering professionals are not left with guidance when facing ethical dilemmas. Professional code of ethics provides the fundamentals for ethical decision-making by emphasizing values such as integrity, honesty and respect. The solution lies in careful consideration, collaboration with the stakeholders and the commitment to underscore the greater good. Higher education institutions can help develop an overarching ethical standard and moral compass mindset.
The field of engineering is established in innovation, creativity and advancement. However, while traversing the challenges in navigating complex situations, engineering professionals encounter numerous ethical dilemmas. However, the professional code of ethics is established to guide engineers when in a dilemma to make informed decisions. Higher educational institutes also help develop ethical skills in their students, enhancing their decision-making skills and building ethical standards. However, the code of ethics does not answer in black and white; therefore, it is pivotal for engineering professionals to carefully consider and collaborate with stakeholders to achieve the greater good of all parties involved.
25, Apr 2024
TresVista hosts the Catalyst Impact Summit 2024
Mumbai, 25th April 2024: TresVista, a global high-end outsourcing firm, has always believed in enhancing its stakeholders’ impact, whether it’s the clients, employees, or the community. The company has partnered with over 20 non-profit organizations to help continue its 17-year-old legacy of driving positive change in the wider community. TresVista, in its commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development, recently organized the Catalyst Impact Summit 2024, aimed to foster impactful discussions on the future of corporate social responsibility.
The event’s theme was “Tech for Good,” centered around the potential of technology to drive positive social impact. The event focused on using digital innovations to address pressing global challenges, promote sustainability, and enhance the well-being of individuals and communities.
The interactive event reinforced the company’s efforts toward what CSR stands for within the firm – Contribute, Serve, Reform. TresVista’s CSR initiatives are deeply aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of its CSR efforts, the company focuses on partnering with social leaders and creating a sustainable impact through various initiatives ranging from Advisory and Consulting, Volunteering, Events, and Donations. Employees are encouraged to participate in CSR activities and events to develop them into socially responsible leaders. Through these efforts, and with the support of their partners, TresVista has significantly contributed to promoting sustainability and empowering marginalized communities.
Vishal Shah, Executive Director of TresVista said “The objective of Catalyst Impact Summit is greater than TresVista and our operations. It is a platform for likeminded organizations and individuals to cement collaborations for the future of social impact. This year, with the help of our employees and partners, we were able to inspire such collaboration, spark innovation, and drive tangible impact across communities. Our aim now is to magnify this impact next year.”
In the year 2024, TresVista’s employees dedicated over 19,000 hours of volunteer and advisory work across their office locations in Mumbai, Pune, and Bengaluru. These efforts extend beyond immediate assistance, focusing on long-term impact and fostering a culture of responsibility and effective action. By strategically aligning with the SDGs, TresVista aims to create positive change and contribute to a more sustainable and empowered future for all stakeholders.
TresVista’s commitment to social responsibility is not just about celebration; it’s a call to action, inspiring everyone to continue making a difference. The event, appropriately named Catalyst Impact Summit, brought together employees, CSR partners, clients, alumni, and social impact leaders to reflect on collective achievements and explore innovative ways to drive positive change. Through their CSR endeavors, TresVista exemplifies how businesses can integrate economic, social, and environmental responsibilities to build a better world for everyone.
25, Apr 2024
PVR Inox Elevates Cinema Experience With No Commercial Break
National, April 25, 2024: PVR INOX, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India through a landmark initiative has announced that it is launching advertising free movie cinemas in its select luxury properties in the country. This is a significant milestone in the entertainment industry, promising patrons a seamless movie-watching experience, free from commercial advertisements before the movie and during intervals.
The ad-free experience is a direct response to changing audience preferences identified through social listening tools utilized by PVR INOX to gauge customer feedback. Consumers have conveyed a clear desire to immerse themselves in films without the disruption of third-party advertisements. This decision underscores PVR INOX dedication to delivering an unmatched and fully immersive viewing experience. By capitalizing on the time saved, PVR INOX may schedule an additional show, attracting more audiences and subsequently increasing box office revenues for the cinemas. This strategic move empowers PVR INOX to prioritize the satisfaction and loyalty of its premium-paying patrons, thereby fostering long-term financial prosperity and brand allegiance.
Acknowledging the significance of watching movies, the way they were meant to be seen-uninterrupted, PVR INOX has taken an innovative and strategic move to remove pre-show and interval on-screen advertisements in specific luxury screens, catering to premium audiences who desire a seamless movie-watching experience.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Renaud Palliere, Chief of The Luxury Collection and Innovation, PVR INOX Limited, said, “We are excited to introduce the ad-free viewing experience in our luxury cinemas without any commercial advertisements, reaffirming our commitment to delivering the highest standards of entertainment to our discerning audiences. Going ad free aims to enhance the movie-going experience and offering our patrons with the utmost value for their time and money. By eliminating pre-show and interval advertisements, we aim to create a conducive environment where audience can fully immerse themselves in the magic of storytelling on the big screen.”
The Ad free experience is currently being rolled out in select PVR INOX luxury properties in Delhi, Gurugram, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Pune. These include PVR Director’s Cut, Ambience Mall, Delhi and Gurugram and in Forum Rex Walk, Bengaluru, INOX Insignia at Ardee Mall, Gurugram; INOX Insignia at R Cube, Monad Mall in Rajouri Garden; INOX Epicuria, Nehru Place and INOX Insignia in R Mall, Thane, Mumbai are providing movie enthusiasts with a premium cinema experience without any ads. Additionally, we are coming up with Director’s Cut in Kopa Mall, Pune which will also fall under this portfolio.
25, Apr 2024
Pluto Tv in Canada Launches Viacom18’s Desiplay Tv, It’s First Hindi Fast Channel
India, April 25, 2024: Pluto TV, a global leader in free streaming television (FAST) has announced that a brand-new DesiPlay TV channel is now streaming in Canada.
Viacom18’s DesiPlay TV is the first FAST Hindi General Entertainment Channel to launch on Pluto TV in Canada, featuring inspiring Indian stories, hand-picked Hindi shows and blockbuster Bollywood movies. Watch the best Hindi TV serials like NAA AANA ISS DES LAADO, COMEDY NIGHTS WITH KAPIL, UTTARAN, MAHAKAALI, RADHA PREM KI DEEWANI, MRS. PAMMI PYARELAL and more shows filled with renowned Indian characters. Viewers favourite Desi TV shows are also available to watch with English subtitles.
“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with IndiaCast on the brand-new DesiPlay TV channel, offering an array of diverse content to Pluto TV viewers across Canada,” said Vanessa Case, VP Content, Pluto TV, Canada. “We are part of a diverse country, and our aim is to curate content that resonates with every viewer.”
Govind Shahi, Executive Vice President, and Head of International Business, IndiaCast Media, said “DesiPlay TV, being the first Hindi general entertainment channel to launch on Pluto TV in Canada, marks a significant milestone as we bring the best of Hindi TV shows and Bollywood movies to South Asians for free. We are committed to entertain our ever-growing ethnic audience in Canada with a diverse array of quality content, ensuring that they experience the richness of Indian culture and storytelling right at their fingertips.”
A few of the amazing series on the Desi Play Channel include:
COMEDY NIGHTS WITH KAPIL
Genre – Comedy
In this celebrity talk show, hosted by Kapil Sharma, the biggest Bollywood stars walk in, while Kapil’s entire family and neighbours’ barge in! This outrageous family has always enthralled and entertained the audiences, with characters including Gutthi, Palak, Bua and Dadi.
MAHAKAALI
Genre – Mythology
If there is one goddess in Hindu mythology who is feared and revered at the same time, it is Kaali – the ultimate destroyer. But her personal life is also a part of this story, including her transformation from a mortal to Mahakaali, the Goddess Parvati and wife to Mahadev.
UTTARAN
Genre – Drama
UTTARAN is a popular Hindi show based on a tale of two friends with completely different backgrounds. Tapasya is the spoiled daughter of a rich man, while Ichha, her best friend, is the maid’s daughter. The series takes an interesting turn when Tapasya gets married, and the best friends are locked in a love triangle.
NAA AANA ISS DES LAADO
Genre – Drama
The critically acclaimed Indian TV show is a social drama that raises a voice against the oppression of women in the Indian hinterlands.
RADHA PREM KI DEEWANI
Genre – Drama
Despite all the differences between them, destiny keeps bringing Radha and Prem together. Will this attraction turn into a love story? One of the best Romantic Hindi shows, only on DesiPlay TV.
MRS. PAMMI PYARELAL
Genre – Comedy
After moving to Mumbai, Param desperately needs a roof over his head, especially when his best friend, Rahul, also gets kicked out of his rented apartment. The duo learns of a house up for rent, but the landlady has one simple condition – her tenants must be married! With no option left, Param and Rahul spin a web of lies and pose as husband and wife. What follows is a hilarious roller coaster ride, packed with friendship, love and absolute chaos.
25, Apr 2024
Back to the Roots for a Sustainable Future:
Nainital, Uttarakhand—25th April 2024: The water conservation initiative in Nainital, Uttarakhand, led by environmentalists Dr. Bikrant Tiwary and Supriya Patil, aims to revive traditional practices to harness rainwater effectively. With a strong women-centric focus, the initiative, which coincides with Earth Day, demonstrates the importance of preserving natural resources.
Chals, large pits dug into hillsides, will be used to store rainwater, with a collective capacity of up to 1.5 million litres. Khals, smaller structures, will hold 625,000 litres of water, ensuring a stable supply during dry periods and preventing soil erosion. With 80% of the workforce comprised of women, the initiative aims to empower them and enhance their role in community development. Beyond water conservation, it promotes holistic community development by replenishing underground springs and supporting biodiversity. What sets this project apart is its self-sustainability, as it does not rely on government funding.
Dr. Bikant Tiwary, known for his transition from the insurance and service sectors to philanthropy, advocates for a greener, sustainable future aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His vision includes nature conservation, preservation, and promoting tribal art and eco-friendly handicrafts, envisioning a future where indigenous tribes thrive in harmony with nature. Additionally, he spearheads a pioneering initiative to preserve over 15 million litres of rainwater annually under his Individual Social Responsibility, marking a significant step towards environmental sustainability.
Supriya Patil, a seasoned environmentalist, has led impactful initiatives, including planting 17 million trees in India and Africa. She emphasizes merging sustainability with social impact and aims to plant millions more trees for carbon reduction and rural community empowerment.
The focus is on expanding this initiative to states like Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and Maharashtra. Dr. Bikant Tiwary’s commitment to reviving traditional wisdom serves as a model for achieving water security and sustainable livelihoods in Nainital and beyond, highlighting the effectiveness of grassroots initiatives in addressing environmental challenges.
25, Apr 2024
MGM Healthcare Doctors Save a Polish Pediatrician from A Rare Bile Duct Liver Cancer for The First Time.
Chennai, April 25, 2024: MGM Healthcare is proud to announce the successful recovery of a patient diagnosed with a rare bile duct cancer of the liver called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The emerging advancements in transplant oncology paved the way for customized treatment by transplant surgeons
Dr.Thiagarajan Srinivasan, Director and Dr. Karthik Mathivanan, Associate Director of the MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant.
A 31-year-old pediatrician from Poland, diagnosed with advanced-stage bile duct cancer, faced significant challenges for treatment all over the world. In July 2023, CT and MRI revealed a large lesion of 8 x 7 cm in the right lobe of her liver and three small lesions of 3 x 2 cm each in the left lobe.
A multidisciplinary team of experts, comprising liver surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and transplant specialists, collaborated closely to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to the patient’s unique treatment needs for rare bile duct cancer of the liver using the advancements in transplant oncology. The team leveraged cutting-edge techniques and technologies, including precision medicine, advanced imaging modalities, and immunotherapy, along with transarterial radioembolization (TARE) therapy and chemotherapy, to successfully down-stage locally advanced bile duct cancer in a 6-month period, making transplantation a feasible option for the patient.
Dr. Thiagarajan Srinivasan, Director of the MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant, elaborated that, “the tumour was not amenable for conventional surgical removal, which would have rendered the remaining liver non-viable. Hence, transplant was the only option that would remove the tumour in toto with the bile duct encompassing the liver”. He further added, “liver cancer ranks as the tenth most prevalent cancer in India, presenting significant complexities in its treatment and management, especially intrahepatic bile duct cancer, due to its aggressive nature, needs to be brought within transplant criteria with multimodal therapy, and then liver transplant is successful with reduced recurrence in the post-transplant period.”
Dr. Karthik Mathivanan Associate, Director of the MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant, expressed optimism about the impact of this achievement: “The ability to down-stage and transplant locally advanced bile duct cancer represents a significant advancement in the field of oncology. We continue to explore new frontiers in transplant oncology to find a cure for cancer and beyond. This treatment success offers renewed hope to patients who may have previously been deemed ineligible for transplantation due to the extent of their disease.”
Dr. Thiagarajan Srinivasan, further added, “The patient successfully underwent living donor liver transplant probably the first of such procedure in the country and this was enabled by her husband who donated right lobe of his liver. Post-surgery, patients’ recovery was swift, with no evidence of cancer recurrence, marking a historic milestone in liver cancer treatment.”
Dr. Karthik Mathivanan added, “This treatment modality has the potential to extend the lives of patients previously considered ineligible for liver transplantation. This well-tolerated approach offers newfound hope to liver cancer patients worldwide, promising improved outcomes and a better quality of life.” He also presented a research paper on this case at the ILTS Consensus Conference for Hepatocellular Cancer and Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma in Valencia, Spain, in 2024. Research team anticipates that this pioneering treatment approach will catalyze further advancements in liver cancer therapy, fostering collaboration, innovation, and ultimately benefiting more patients globally.
The surgery was performed by Dr. Thiagarajan Srinivasan, Director, MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant; Dr. Karthik Mathivanan, Associate Director, MGM Institute of Liver Disease and Transplant; Dr. Srikanth Thummalla, Consultant; Dr. Soundara Rajan L, Consultant; Dr. Dinesh Babu, Anaesthesists; and Dr. Nivash Chandrasekar, Anaesthesists.
25, Apr 2024
Check Point Software: 90percent of company attacks start with a phishing email
India, 25th April 2024 – Email is one of the main technological innovations that has revolutionized the way we understand the world, as well as reconfigured the business model. Since its invention in 1965, the evolution of this means of communication has been groundbreaking, and according to data from Statista, there were already more than 4.260 billion users who used email in 2022, and the number of emails sent on that same date amounted to 330 billion, with a growth forecast of 17.8% by 2026. However, the high use of this technology has also made it one of the most vulnerable: according to Techopedia, more than 3.4 billion phishing emails occur daily, with these attacks being responsible for 90% of data breaches.
On the occasion of National Email Day, Check Point® Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a leading AI-powered, cloud-delivered cyber security platform provider, is sharing the evolution of email, to see how it has developed to become one of the main communication tools, and in turn, a central point of attack by cybercriminals. According to Check Point Software, currently, more than 90% of attacks on companies originate from malicious emails. In the last thirty days, 62% of malicious files were distributed via email, and it has been shown that one in 379 emails contains this type of file, with the PDF format being the most common, with a frequency percentage of 59%.
Check Point Software also reveals how phishing is predominant in different regions: in India, an organization has been attacked on average 2444 times per week in the last 6 months, compared to 1151 attacks per organization globally. Apart from that, EXE is the top malicious file type by email, with 57%
The Evolution from the First Email
Email was invented in 1965 by a group of researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). It was the first electronic messaging system for internal use, although at that time it differed greatly from what is known today. In 1971, Ray Tomlinson invented the email system with an infrastructure similar to today’s: it was a personal digital mailbox where you could receive messages.
The email began to be used as a method for conducting business starting in 1978 when the first email marketing campaign was launched by Gary Thuerk. However, email was restricted to business use until the late 1980s. Microsoft Mail was the first program launched for users, which also incorporated the option to add attachments in 1992. From that moment, other electronic mailbox options began to emerge: Microsoft Outlook in 1993, Hotmail in 1996, Yahoo Mail, and Gmail.
Email has been one of the most frequent formulas for distributing malware, with attacks as significant as Creeper or Happy99, causing corporate disasters like WannaCry (3.800 million euros) or MyDoom (34.000 million euros).
Phishing attacks are one of the most commonly used formulas for distributing malware and ransomware. This kind of cyber threat started in 1996 when the term was first used by America Online (AOL). Cybercriminals created random credit card numbers and opened new accounts on AOL, posing as employees of the service itself to steal users’ credentials. Later, in the 2000s, the concept of ‘Spray and Pray’ emerged, a phishing campaign in which a well-known brand was impersonated to scam potential customers to steal their credentials.
This cyber threat has evolved by employing sophisticated techniques such as identity spoofing and putting Artificial Intelligence and DeepFake technology at their service. Spoofing is a technique where the use of AI is fundamental: the attacker falsifies the email address to impersonate another person or organization with the main goal of deceiving the recipient into believing that the email is coming from a legitimate source. Ransomware attacks often use this method to encrypt the victim’s files or lock the entire system until the ransom is paid. According to Check Point Software, 10% of companies worldwide have experienced ransomware attacks, representing a 33% increase compared to the previous year.
The reach of phishing attacks is unlimited and mainly affects large companies: according to Check Point Research (Brand Phishing Report Q1 2024) on phishing attacks, Microsoft was the most targeted (38% of phishing attacks worldwide), followed by Google and LinkedIn. This type of threat can lead to large-scale data leaks, as happened recently with the well-known case “Mother of all Breaches” in January 2024, a supermassive leak of more than 26 billion records containing LinkedIn, Twitter, Tencent, and other platforms’ user data.
Email Security with Check Point Software
Implementing best email security practices is essential to protect user data and the reputation and integrity of businesses. For this, it is essential to follow a series of guidelines based on awareness, prevention, and protection:
- Awareness and user training: users must be aware of the threats they face and receive regular training to recognize and know how to respond to cyberattacks.
- Use of strong passwords
- Employment of multifactor authentication
- Updates and patches: Keep email software and device operating systems up to date with the latest security patches to stay protected against potential vulnerabilities.
- Spam filtering
- Use of encryption to protect the privacy and confidentiality of emails.
- Implementing Data Loss Prevention (DLP) and employing secure browsing solutions.
Check Point Software offers comprehensive email protection with Harmony Email & Collaboration, with a focus on AI and ML-driven prevention, equipped to stop the most sophisticated and evasive attacks, as well as complete protection against malware and ensuring that all confidential company information is kept safe. This technology has been recognized as the most effective in protecting email and communications by the Omdia Universe Email Security 2024 report, with a success rate of 99.8%.
“Email is currently one of the most effective tools for companies and although the advantages it offers are numerous. Nevertheless it is necessary to always stay alert against cyber-attack attempts leveraging emails, from ransomware attacks to cunning phishing schemes and scams. The integration of AI technologies into these threats has only heightened the urgency for robust defences in the organisation and at home. We must prioritise the implementation of robust email security solutions, comprehensive user education and maintaining a culture of vigilance to stay ahead of such threats. This is an indispensable requirement for any organization to maintain the safety and integrity of their operations.” explains Sundar Balasubramanian, India and SAARC MD, Check Point Software Technologies at Check Point Software.
25, Apr 2024
Speech by M. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group, at Vodafone Idea’s FPO Listing at NSE
Good morning, everyone! It is truly wonderful to be here at the NSE for the listing of Vodafone Idea’s equity shares after a remarkably successful FPO. It was 17 years ago that Idea Cellular was listed on the bourses. The India Telecom story since then has been punctuated by many events and milestones.
And I believe that the successful conclusion of India’s largest FPO of Rs 18,000 crores marks one such turning point for the telecom industry. The fact that so many marquee investors participated in this equity issuance is a testament to the government’s vision of a digital India. The emphatic oversubscription of the FPO – with the overall book being subscribed 7 times and the institutional book being subscribed 19 times — demonstrates the tremendous potential of the India digital story and Vodafone Idea’s role in it. The robust engagement from both foreign and domestic investors is heartening. Notably, the full subscription of the retail portion is truly commendable, given the sheer scale of the offer.
Vodafone Idea’s journey to this point has been shaped significantly by the government’s path-breaking reform package, which was nothing short of transformational for the entire sector. I thank the honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the Honourable Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman and the Honourable Telecom Minister Shri Ashwin Vaishnaw for their leadership and unequivocal commitment to preserving a competitive 3-player market. The policy environment today encourages investment, innovation, and competition.
India’s digital economy is booming, and robust telecom networks are crucial to support this growth. A nation of 1.4 billion people deserves 3 private telecom players.
Vodafone Idea, today, is not just a telecom company. It is a national asset — with 215 million users, about 8000 MHz spectrum, and a network that spans Kashmir to Kanyakumari.
The Aditya Birla Group, as you all know, has remained committed to this sector for over two and a half decades now. Along with our partner, Vodafone Group, we have cumulatively invested around Rs.170,000 Cr in the Indian Telecom industry. Before this FPO, in the last 5 years, out of Rs.30,000 Cr raised by the company, more than 75% has come from the two promoter groups. The latest fundraising has also seen an investment of over Rs. 2,000 Cr from the Aditya Birla Group. This continued commitment stems from our belief in the promise of the India digital story.
The proceeds from this fundraiser are earmarked for a significant capital expenditure cycle. This growth capex will pave the way for a network and technological upgrade across key markets. This in turn will enhance operational efficiencies and lead to better performance. The cycle of investment will trigger the cycle of growth. On the back of this fundraiser and continued support from banks, Vodafone Idea will stage a smart turnaround. This moment in some ways, marks the beginning of Vodafone Idea 2.0. I believe that a revitalized Vodafone Idea is important for India.
I want to take a moment to acknowledge the relentless spirit of team Vodafone Idea. From network technicians and marketing executives to customer service agents— the “Vi” (pronounced WE) team has demonstrated extraordinary commitment, resilience, and tenacity. Amidst storms of uncertainty, they have remained undeterred, day in and day out. It won’t be an exaggeration to say —What a team, Sirjee!
I also want to thank the 215 million users who have backed the company through thick and thin. Their support is the foundation on which Vodafone Idea will grow.
A heartfelt thank you also to our banking partners, Axis, Jefferies, and SBI Caps for this blockbuster FPO.
Once again, I am grateful to everyone who has believed in, invested in, and committed to the vision of Digital India. A vision that will continue to drive Vodafone Idea forward. Today, as we stand on the cusp of a digital revolution, a rejuvenated Vi together with other telecom players, will meaningfully contribute to the exciting and sustainable growth journey ahead.
25, Apr 2024
CNBC-TV18 and HSBC India Champion Gender Equality with the second season of Future. Female. Forward
25th April 2024: CNBC-TV18 organized an intimate chapter of Future. Female. Forward Season 2: The Leadership Circle – Mumbai Edition, presented by HSBC India. This significant initiative aims to bridge the gender gap and engage in impactful conversations to promote gender equality. The event was held at ITC Grand Central, Mumbai on April 18, 2024, and was attended by prominent figures from business, entrepreneurship, policy, entertainment, and politics.
The Leadership Circle aimed to go beyond traditional networking events by establishing a forum where decision-makers and influential leaders gathered to promote true parity. This chapter welcomed prominent female leaders to share their experiences, encouraging meaningful dialogue and effective collaboration.
The evening kickstarted with a welcome address by Shereen Bhan, Managing Editor, CNBC-TV18. She said, “CNBC-TV18’s Future. Female. Forward. initiative has collected narratives of numerous women across various spheres of life. We have taken our campaign and conversations to global forums with the World Economic Forum in Davos. Our initiative has honored women who have opened new doors of opportunity. Future. Female. Forward. focuses not just on maintaining women’s presence in the workplace, but also on reclaiming their individuality and promoting empowerment. The initiative brought together leaders from the private sector, governmental, and social sectors.”
The first fireside chat of the Leadership Circle’s Mumbai edition featured Masaba Gupta, Fashion Designer, Entrepreneur, and Actor in conversation with Shereen Bhan. Talking about the plans for House of Masaba, she said, “We will have a significantly larger retail footprint across India and globally. Currently, we operate around 17 stores across India, and we aim to increase this number to between 35 and 40 in the upcoming years. Additionally, we have exciting new categories and product extensions in the pipeline. We are gradually shifting towards the luxury market, recognizing the dynamic nature of today’s Indian market. I used to say, people loved heading West, finding joy in opening stores in New York or Dubai. But today, we’ve got it all right here in our Indian market.”
The evening moved ahead with an enriching panel discussion on the topic ‘Lessons in Leadership’ with Naiyya Saggi, Co-Founder, of Good Glam Group & CEO, of Good Community; Radhika Gupta, Managing Director & CEO, of Edelweiss Mutual Fund; Neera Nundy, Partner & Co-Founder, Dasra; Neetu Kashiramka, Managing Director, VIP Industries Limited; Deepali Goenka, Managing Director, Welspun Living Limited; Aparna Piramal Raje, Writer & Public Speaker, and Dr. Aparna Bandodkar.
Reflecting on her journey, Radhika Gupta, MD & CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, stated, “A defining moment for me was when I walked onto the stage at the Jio Theater without informing my family or colleagues, ready to open up to 500 strangers about my experiences. Supported by the encouragement of a mentor, I was uncertain about the effect my words would have. By embracing my vulnerabilities, I discovered strength and built a greater sense of self-assurance. I realized that my flaws were not weaknesses but rather connections to others. Sharing my story turned into a beacon of hope for many who were on similar paths.”
Neetu Kashiramka, Managing Director, VIP Industries Limited speaking about her journey of overcoming societal taboos said “I come from a conservative Marwadi family where even attending college was a challenge. Despite my father’s pressure to marry at 20, I was resolute about pursuing a career. It took tears and persistence to gain his approval. The next hurdle was finding a progressive partner who would respect and support my ambitions. With confidence, I approached my husband-to-be, laying out my expectations. His unwavering support and sacrifices have been crucial to my career success. From starting as an assistant manager to becoming a vice president, I’ve achieved milestones beyond imagination. Each step, from K-11 to VIP Industries, has been driven by determination and a commitment to excellence.”
Naiyya Saggi, Co-Founder, of Good Glam Group & CEO, of Good Community said “At its core, we are fostering a community where both remarkable women and men unite. Growing up, my mother was an indomitable force who shattered stereotypes, ensuring that gender was never a barrier in my life. Entrepreneurship, particularly founding Baby Chakra, opened my eyes to the existing disparities. We encountered difficulties in persuading male investors, but we never gave up. I was recently elected to the governing council of the Mumbai Tech Entrepreneurs Association, where I advocate for increased female representation. As I prepare to become a mother for the second time, my journey is a testament to the power of persistence. Each challenge we overcome not only advances our cause but also sets the stage for others to follow. We aim to create a domino effect, where each success story motivates many more to embark on their paths.”
Sohini Chattopadhyay, national-award-winning film critic, journalist, and author delivered a special author session about the growth of Women in history, specifically women in sports.
The event’s concluding discussion session on partner perspectives on ‘Championing Diversity and Inclusion’ was led by Amitabh Malhotra, Head of Global Banking of HSBC India. Talking about the diverse culture and various programs for women, he said, “At HSBC, our dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion extends beyond individual stories to a collective effort. Our ‘Power to Her’ initiative, aimed at reintegrating skilled women back into the workforce after career breaks, illustrates this commitment. Achieving an impressive 60% conversion rate to full-time positions underscores our resolve to leverage diverse talent pools and cultivate upcoming leaders. Likewise, our ‘Ascent’ program empowers senior female leaders by enhancing their self-awareness and leadership capabilities, leading to more than 50% advancement into new roles.”
CNBC-TV18’s Future. Female. Forward – The Women’s Collective was proudly presented by HSBC India. It is co-presented by HCLTech, and ITC, FedEx, Reliance supported the initiative as Associate Partners, with Industry Partner, FICCI.
