15, Dec 2023
ONGC launches Shared Finance Services in collaboration with IBM to revolutionize Vendor Payment Processes
Energy Maharatna ONGC launched a significant business process initiative today with the inauguration of the ONGC Shared Finance Services in collaboration with IBM Consulting. This will centralize and standardize all vendor payments of ONGC, accelerating the processes for an enhanced 360-degree vendor experience. ONGC Chairman and CEO Arun Kumar Singh inaugurated the Centre at Noida in the presence of ONGC Director (Finance) Pomila Jaspal, and IBM Consulting India/South Asia Country Managing Partner Kamal Singhani on 14 December 2023.
Inauguration of ONGC Shared Finance Services in Noida
The event also witnessed the participation of MD OVL Rajarshi Gupta, ONGC Director (Exploration) Sushma Rawat, Director (Human Resources) Manish Patil, CVO ONGC Ranjan Prakash Thakur, Director (Finance) OVL Anupam Aggarwal, MRPL Director (Finance) Vivek Tongaonkar and senior leadership team of IBM.
The ONGC Shared Finance Services (SFS) for Centralized Vendor Payments, has been developed in collaboration with IBM Consulting. The SFS will serve as a centralized hub for processing vendor invoices, updating vendor master information, and promptly addressing vendor queries through the digital assistant and ticketing tool that has been deployed by IBM Consulting. The SFS has been created with the goal of establishing uniform standardized processes to enhance operational efficiency and improve the overall vendor experience.
Chairman & CEO ONGC Arun Kumar Singh while inaugurating the facility said, “This is one of the number of vendor-friendly initiatives that ONGC has taken to improve the overall vendor experience. We will continue to take more stakeholder-friendly initiatives by leveraging technology and taking the ease of doing business to the next level. All repetitive transactional jobs would be outsourced so that limited managerial time is freed up for core strategic assignments.”
ONGC Shared Finance Services will revolutionize Vendor Payment Processes
Speaking on the occasion, Kamal Singhani, Country Managing Partner, IBM Consulting India/South Asia said, “We see this collaboration, that leverages the collective strengths of IBM and ONGC, as good for India. We’re proud to help ONGC advance their digital transformation with our industry and domain expertise, technological innovation, and results-oriented approach.”
The SFS adopts a hybrid workforce model, co-locating ONGC and IBM Consulting resources in a harmonized environment to foster growth and operational efficiency with best practices. Additionally, the SFS incorporates digitalized compliance processes, handling centralized compliance for TDS under the GST and Income Tax Act. Centralization brings ease of business through a Single TAN and centralized forex activities. System-driven concurrent audit processes and tax compliance measures demonstrate the SFS’s commitment to transparency and adherence to regulatory standards.
Tokens will be created for unresolved queries, aiming to resolve them within a 48-hour timeframe. The initiative reflects ONGC’s commitment to transparent uniform processes, stakeholder satisfaction, and collaborative growth. The anticipated advantages of the SFS include speedier processing of vendor payments, improved record-keeping, enhanced efficiency, and enriched vendor relationships.
The SFS signifies commitment by ONGC and IBM to continuous process improvements and lays the foundation for exploring similar stakeholders’ friendly initiatives in the future ¬– such as intelligent workflows and business operations powered by generative AI.
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- By Rabindra
15, Dec 2023
Bajaj Allianz Life’s Assets Under Management Crosses Rupees One Lakh Crore
National, 15, December, 2023: Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, one of India’s leading private life insurers, has achieved a significant milestone surpassing Rs. 1,00,000 crore in Assets under Management (AUM), today. This milestone underscores the profound trust the customers have in the Company and its investment expertise to help them achieve their long-term Life Goals.
Bajaj Allianz Life’s transformational journey across every aspect of the business in recent years has propelled it to become one of the fastest-growing insurance companies among the top 10 private life insurers. A 1.8 times growth in its AUM, from Rs. 56,085 crores in FY2020, to over Rs.1,00,000 crore in the current financial year is reflective of this growth trajectory.
Focus on innovative, customer-focused products, robust omnichannel distribution focus, and top-tier services backed by a solid digital and technology framework have been key drivers of this outstanding performance. Customers’ confidence is paramount in enabling such a robust transformative journey and every initiative undertaken is to further build this trust.
Tarun Chugh, MD & CEO, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, said, “This milestone stands as a testament to the unwavering trust our valued customers have vested in us. At Bajaj Allianz Life, we deeply appreciate the significance of this moment, reinforcing our resolve to continually empower our customers and help them achieve their Life Goals. Our commitment to innovation and excellence remains resolute, as these are the cornerstones upon which our customers place their trust for a financially secure future. From an investment perspective, we remain dedicated to delivering robust, risk-adjusted performance in our funds, solidifying the trust our customers have in our long-term investment strategies.”
Through various optimum investment strategies and Customer First philosophy Bajaj Allianz Life has fuelled its growth, especially over the past 3 years (ended Aug 2023). The Individual New Business APE (Annual Premium Equivalent) for Bajaj Allianz Life has grown at 41.3% CAGR, vis-à-vis overall industry growth of 13.5% CAGR and private sector growth of 22.4% CAGR. This significant growth revival has helped the Company to achieve the Rs. 1,00,000 crore AUM milestone. At an overall industry level (based on individual new business APE), the market share of Bajaj Allianz Life has almost doubled from 2.6% in FY20 to 5.0% in FY23. The market share of the Company within the private sector has also expanded from 4.6% in FY20 to 7.6% in FY23.
Since its inception, the Company has earned the trust of over 4.49 crore individual and group customers (as on 31st October, 2023). An individual claim settlement ratio of 99.04% (in FY 23) is also a testament to the Company’s commitment towards its customers.
15, Dec 2023
CASE Construction Equipment leaps forward in its commitment to Environment, Safety and addressing customer needs at CII EXCON 2023
- Unveils Bharat Stage V-compliant Loader Backhoes and Compactors
- Upgrades entire Loader Backhoe range with the safest operator cabin compliant to ROPS & FOPS standards, and 22 unique features
- Expands product range with Made in India Skid Steer Loaders
- Expands product range with the debut of Mini Excavators including industry-first Electric Mini Excavator
- Launches FleetPro, a platform to increase customer reach to genuine machine parts and accessories
Bengaluru, 15th December 2023:
CASE Construction Equipment, a leading brand of CNH Industrial, kicked off the 12th edition of the International Equipment and Construction Technology Trade Fair CII – EXCON 2023, on an exciting note. The company announced their readiness for BS (CEV) V compliance by showcasing their marquee Backhoe Loader – 770 NX Plus and Soil Compactor 1107 NX-PD. It also marked their debut in two new categories in India with the unveiling of an all-new Skid Steer Loader – SSL 175 and compact machines through mini Excavator – CX 35D to its domestic product portfolio. And upgraded the entire Loader Backhoe portfolio to the Industry’s safest operator cabin with a host of 22 new features.

Additionally, the brand displayed 10 new and upgraded products and services, including an Electric Mini Excavator and a range of Industry leading Vibratory Compactors, Excavators and Motor Graders with a host of attachments and the all-new FLEETPRO™, a value line parts offering.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Alexander Markov, Vice-President, Construction Segment, CNH Industrial AME & APAC said, “We are ecstatic to be presenting our cutting-edge product portfolio and engaging with customers at the biggest trade event in South Asia. India is a strategically important market for the group, as the country is the third-largest CE market globally. Additionally, our world class factory at Pithampur, India, is increasingly becoming a cornerstone of our global supply chain, servicing over 100 countries, with our compactors, backhoes, and excavators. With new products, we are sure to expand our global reach with Made-in-India products.”
At the unveiling of new products, Mr. Shalabh Chaturvedi, Managing Director, CASE Construction Equipment – India and SAARC Region, said, “Showcasing our preparedness towards adapting the upcoming Stage 5 emission norms as well as upgrading our entire Loader Backhoe range with the safest operator cabin fills us with a sense of purpose and pride. Additionally, our new product launches – Skid Steer Loaders and Mini Excavators, give us more opportunities to serve our customers for their diverse needs. Interestingly, the Skid Steer Loaders are made in a women-led production line at our plant in Pithampur, breaking the gender stereotypes. We are well positioning to partner in India’s infrastructure development, with our technologically advanced equipment with features such as Telematics and service offerings such as FLEETPRO”
Product Details:
BS (CEV) V Loader Backhoe 770 NX Plus:
The all new CEV Stage V compliant, CASE 770 NX Plus is introduced to offer an ideal balance of high productivity and better fuel efficiency. This machine is powered by an Electronic 74 hp diesel engine, which is coupled with the New Generation Electro-Hydraulics Variable Pump with 143 lpm flow and 240 bar peak pressure. The 770NX Plus, with its 1.1 cu.m. and 0.30 cu.m. standard buckets, offers high versatility with options like high dump and bottom dump buckets, along with a Rock Breaker kit. The machine is equipped with the ROPS and FOPS-compliant safe and high-comfort cabin, along with SiteWatch Telematics as the standard offering.
BS (CEV) V Soil Compactor 1107 NX-PD:
Leader in Vibratory Compactor, CASE India has introduced yet another cutting-edge soil compactor that offers exceptional performance and reliability. Powered by the Electronic CEV-Stage V engine with auto Idle and shutdown fuel saving feature that offers a class leading fuel efficiency resulting into maximized profitability. With best-in-class compaction forces, tuned with ideal amplitude & frequency setting for maximum compaction in minimum passes makes it a highly efficient compaction equipment.
Designed for comfortable and safe operation, the machine is equipped with the ROPS & FOPS compliant canopy, a 6-way adjustable 90⁰ rotating seat with arm rests, and high visibility operator platform amongst other key features. Loaded with features like SiteWatch telematics, secondary brake, engine protection shutdown, and audio-visual warning alert system, further enhances its safety standard against its competitors.
Skid Steer Loader – SR 175B:
The newly introduced SR 175B boasts a range of distinctive features that can redefine industry standards. The 2.2 litre diesel engine offers 44.7 kW/ 60hp @2800 rpm with a peak torque of 171Nm @1800 rpm. The powerful machine offers optimal pushing power with the loader support being at the bottom part of the chassis to maximising machine performance especially during loading applications. The versatile machine boasts a hydraulic system with fast cycle times and a Connect Under Pressure (CUP) system for wrench-free hydraulic tool connection.
Operator comfort is elevated with a spacious cab design featuring Suspension seats, a wide door, grab handles, and a lower threshold for easy access. The machine’s outstanding visibility, achieved through a large glass area, ultra-narrow wire lateral protection, thinner front pillars with minimum noise, and comfortable room, sets a new benchmark in ROPS/FOPS cab, within the market.
Mini Excavator – CX35D:
The compact excavator is loaded with the distinguished 3.5-ton digger that offers tailored configurations including a cab or canopy, and the option of rubber or steel tracks for unparalleled versatility and operational efficiency. Delivering an impressive digging depth of up to 3070mm, the CX35D with zero-tail swing, stands as the premier choice for dynamic urban and infrastructure sites characterized by heightened traffic or the coexistence of diverse equipment types.
Our dedication to innovation for heightened productivity is underscored by the integration of advanced features, including electro-hydraulic controls, hydraulic flow settings, load-sensing electronic pumps, flow-sharing control valves, and up to 3 auxiliary circuits. This technological sophistication endows the CX35D with exceptional versatility, accommodating a diverse array of quick couplers and attachments for multifaceted applications.
Mini Excavator – CX15
One of the prominent tech advancements on display is the CASE electric mini excavator that are easy to transport and efficient for indoor work due to zero emissions output and its compact size. The 1.5 metric ton CX15 EV is a dynamic electric mini excavator and offers the same power and performance as diesel-powered machines, with adjustable operating modes and attachments. The compact machine comes with standard auxiliary hydraulics and an optional 2nd auxiliary circuit, allowing for optimal performance.
Upgraded 770NXe:
Launched last year at the EXCON, the 770NXe Backhoe Loader will now offer a new cabin with ROPS/ FOPS ensuring optimal safety standards. It’s the trapezoidal design not only adds a modern aesthetic but also enhances functionality. The ergonomic RPM control, door gas struts, and new CED paint coating contribute to a user-friendly and durable environment. The addition of an FM radio on the headliner adds entertainment to the mix. New latches and locks ensure enhanced security, and a remarkable +20% increase in cabin storage amplifies practicality. The new cabin will also offer features like a split helper seat, improved knee clearances, larger steering wheel, improved backhoe lever, comfortable loader lever, parking brake, repositioned rear work lamps, a horn-integrated backhoe lever. Adding to the safety feature, the machine comes with the SiteWatch Telematics for comprehensive monitoring.
FLEETPRO™:
It is, an integral part of the CNH Industrial family of brands, strategically positioned to enhance the Parts and Service Portfolio of the brand. The brand will address the diverse requirements that arise during the entire lifespan of the machines and across various operations. Recognizing the evolving demands of the customers and the changing landscape of the industry, FLEETPRO™ aims to amplify the brand’s commitment to providing comprehensive aftermarket solutions, by aligning with the changing expectations of customers and dealers for later-in-life parts requirements.
15, Dec 2023
HARTEK commissions 400kV substation for PGCIL at Jind, Haryana
New Delhi, December 15, 2023 – Hartek Power Private Limited, the Power system, T&D Business Unit of the Hartek Group, proudly announces the successful extension of 220 Kv for the 400kV substation at Khatkar (Jind) Haryana PGCIL substation project. This significant milestone reinforces the company’s commitment in building the grid for the future as well as delivering on the promise of a 24*7 power supply.
The project, awarded under package SS01 by the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL), represents a groundbreaking extension of the 220 kV Khatkar (Jind) Substation. The scope includes the development of 220KV and 400KV substations solidifying Hartek Power’s reputation as a key player in the power industry.

“We are thrilled to announce the successful extension of the 220 kV base at the Khatkar (Jind) Haryana PGCIL substation project. This achievement reflects our team’s dedication and expertise in delivering high-quality solutions in the power sector,” said Mr Sanjeev Gupta, CEO at Hartek Power Private Limited.
Hartek Power’s dedicated team demonstrated exceptional proficiency in Engineering, Supply, and Erection, contributing to the seamless execution of this monumental endeavor. Their unwavering commitment and expertise were instrumental in achieving this remarkable feat, showcasing the company’s ability to provide innovative power system solutions.
15, Dec 2023
1to1help appoints Ms Mahua Bisht as the new Chief Executive Officer
Mumbai, 15 December 2023: 1to1help, India’s largest Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider, announced the appointment of Ms Mahua Bisht as the Chief Executive Officer of the company. This move reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement across its comprehensive suite of offerings. Ms. Bisht’s leadership is poised to steer 1to1help towards new heights, reinforcing its position as the pioneer in the industry.
Mahua has a proven record of accomplishment in the technology and social impact sectors having led teams in dynamic environments across several sectors. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in History from Reed College in the US and further advanced her expertise by attaining a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) from Columbia University, New York.
Prior to joining 1to1help, Mahua worked as the Chief of Staff of Technology for the Indian subsidiary of Getir and has also led fundraising and partnership efforts at Indus Action. With a diverse range of experiences, Mahua is well positioned to uphold and advance 1to1help’s 22-year legacy of delivering impactful and high-quality Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP) Over this time period, 1to1help has helped over 1000 organizations, delivering 980,000 counselling sessions while addressing over 11,500 suicide risk cases.
Commenting on this appointment Ms Archana Bisht, Co-Founder and Director, 1to1help.net said, “Amidst a global mental health crisis, the imperative for high-quality mental health support is crucial. Under Mahua’s leadership, 1to1help is poised to address this challenge, steering us towards the future through innovative solutions and tailored offerings. We are optimistic that Mahua will not only uphold the 22-year strong legacy but also drive 1to1help to be the flag bearer of the Employee Assistance Program industry, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter in our journey.”
Mr. Premkumar Seshadri, (former Executive Chairperson in the HCL Group, and ex Group CEO of Apollo Hospitals) who is Chief Mentor and Advisor to the Board at 1to1help said, “Mahua has been keenly involved with the growth and product strategy over the last few years while building strong partnerships with clients. Her passion for building leading-edge solutions and commitment to clinical excellence would position 1to1help.net ahead of its global peers.”
On her appointment, Mahua says “I am honored to assume the role of CEO. My focus will be to continue to provide the highest levels of care to our users and sponsors as we deepen our impact and broaden our coverage. I want to help move the EAP industry into its mature stage by bringing together our 22 years of experience and learnings with our strong product endeavors. I am eager to contribute to the continued growth and success of 1to1help by aligning our efforts to foster innovation and develop offerings that cater to the evolving needs of both employers and employees.”
1to1help.net’s vision is to change the way organizations approach and prioritize emotional health. They are not advocating for a one-size-fits-all solution but instead focus on tailored interventions for individuals, teams, entire cohorts, and the organization as a whole. Their objective is to create resilient, productive, and nurturing work environments for all.
This appointment underscores 1to1help’s mission to provide more personalized and accessible care ensuring that individuals receive support to not only cope with stress, sadness, and anxiety but also improve their sense of purpose, satisfaction with life, and overall happiness.
15, Dec 2023
AWS helps renovate residential school, and plans to develop 50 farm ponds to help the local community in Shabad, Telangana with rainwater harvesting
December 15, 2023 | Hyderabad, Telangana
Amazon Web Services (AWS) today communicated that it has completed the renovation and beautification of the Telangana State Model School (TSMS) at Shabad in the Rangareddy district in Telangana as part of its AWS InCommunities program, which aims to make a positive impact to communities, especially in regions where AWS operates. The renovated building was inaugurated on December 14, 2023 in the presence of dignitaries including Ch. Ramana Kumar, Additional Director, Telangana State Model School; P. Suseendra Rao, District Educational Officer, Ranga Reddy District; V L Anuradha, Mandal Parishad Development Officer; and Kerry Person, Vice President, Data Centre Planning and Delivery, AWS.

The renovation at TSMS includes electrical, plumbing and civil work undertaken to improve the school infrastructure and create a comfortable space for the students and staff. The school walls have been decorated with colourful, interactive, localised murals to provide friendly learning spaces for children, and the school now also features a renovated library, and new furniture in the classrooms.
About 800 students from approximately 20 nearby villages study at the Telangana State Model School (TSMS) at Shabad, and reside on campus. AWS has been associated with this school since the launch of the AWS Think Big Spaces program there earlier this year. The AWS Think Big Spaces program is focused on enabling students to cultivate an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) disciplines.
P. Suseendra Rao, District Educational Officer, Ranga Reddy District, said, “It is heartening to see how organisations such as AWS are committed to improving school infrastructure and providing education curriculum. Such initiatives will instill confidence among students and parents in formal education, and importantly, spark interest and curiosity among students in science, technology, arts, and mathematics. With the AWS Think Big Spaces program, the Telangana State Model School at Shabad has an excellent opportunity to maximise learning outcomes and empower the children to build a bright future.”
AWS collaborated with SEARCH, a nonprofit organisation to undertake the school renovation. Besides this, AWS and SEARCH are also working together to undertake the construction of 50 farm ponds in the Shabad mandal[1]. SEARCH will undertake a detailed community engagement process to ensure that the farm ponds are implemented in a way that maximizes the benefit to the villagers. Once completed, the farm ponds will help recharge groundwater, and increase the water available to the community, helping villagers utilize rainwater for agricultural purposes.
Collectively, these two new initiatives by AWS will help contribute to improving education, environmental sustainability, community well-being, and infrastructure development in Shabad. These new initiatives as part of the AWS InCommunities program in Telangana add to the multiple initiatives already undertaken by AWS in the state’s Rangareddy district, such as the renovation of government schools, Anganwadi centers (rural child care center), and healthcare centers and hospitals, and the launch of AWS Think Big Spaces in multiple parts of the district including Nednur, Meerkhanpet, and Kandukur mandals.
15, Dec 2023
Bandhan Bank authorised by RBI for disbursing pension to Railways
December 15, 2023: Bandhan Bank, a pan-India universal bank, today announced that it has been authorized by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for the disbursement of pension through e-PPOs on behalf of Indian Railway. Indian Railways in the largest employer in the country with an employee strength of nearly 12 lakh. The Bank will soon be integrating with the Ministry of Railways to operationalize the pension disbursement process.
This authorization enables Bandhan Bank to disburse pension to nearly 15 lakh Indian Railways pensioners who have retired from the service. This mandate also provides the Bank an opportunity to serve around 50,000 average Indian Railways retirees every year across all offices including 17 zonal railways and 8 production units of Indian Railways.
This will provide the existing as well as new customers of Bandhan Bank an opportunity to avail the world-class banking services, competitive interest rates along with senior citizen privilege provided by the Bank. Pensioners also get access to more than 1640 branches and best in best-in-class digital banking platform of Bandhan Bank.
Debraj Saha, Head – Government Business, Bandhan Bank said, “Indian Railways is one of the prestigious and largest employer in the country. Authorization to disburse pension to retired employees of railways provides an opportunity to serve them with the best products and services of the bank. It also gives the retired employees an opportunity to enjoy the most competitive rates provided by Bandhan Bank. This mandate by Ministry of Finance, Railways and RBI is a testament of the confidence and trust placed by the regulators and government on our bank.
This new authorization allows us to play a pivotal role in the efficient disbursement of pensions to Indian Railways retirees, contributing to their financial well-being during their golden years. We are now better equipped to serve retirees in a more streamlined, secure, and prompt manner.”
15, Dec 2023
MRF Tyres Secures Back-to-back European Rally Championship Victory In 2023
MRF Tyres, one of the leading global tyre manufacturer, proudly achieved its back-to-back titles in the European Rally Championship (ERC)
The prestigious trophy was received by Mr Arun Mammen, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of MRF Tyres, during a ceremony held in Baku, Azerbaijan and organized by the Féderation Internationale de Automobile (FIA) on the 9 of December 2023.
This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to the performance and development of MRF Tyres, solidifying the brand’s continued growth in Europe and across the globe.
“We are very proud and humbled with the success so far, and a big credit goes to the technical and development team at MRF Tyres. We also extend our thanks to our drivers, co-drivers and teams who played a vital role in the development and performance of MRF Tyres.” said Mr. Arun Mammen Vice-Chairman and managing director of MRF Tyres.
MRF Tyres is looking forward to competing in the European Rally Championship 2024 and various other national championships around the world



