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ReTech Startup Awards recognise top retail technology startups of 2023

Mumbai, September 27, 2023: Eight years ago, the Retailers Association of India (RAI) introduced the ReTech Start-up Awards with the aim of acknowledging pioneering retail technology startups poised to reshape the business landscape through their innovative concepts.

Speaking about the ReTech Awards 2023, Dr. Hitesh Bhat, Director Marketing & Communications, said, Retailers Association of India (RAI) said, “Retail enterprises must accelerate their adoption of digital transformation at an unprecedented pace. Consequently, it becomes essential to acknowledge and foster technological innovators who can spearhead the development of a resilient interconnected commerce ecosystem. The ReTech Startup Awards initiative stands as the singular platform that empowers retail technology startups, affording them a formidable opportunity to showcase their offerings directly to real end-users.”

The preliminary jury comprising of Vikram Idnani, President – CIO, Landmark Group, and Dharmarajan K, Chief Business Officer, Tata Uni Store evaluated the entries over set criteria and delivered a final shortlist of 10 innovative retail startups, who then presented to the grand jury comprising of Radhakrishnan K, Director, StarQuik (Tata Group) and Amit Sarda, Managing Director, Soulflower.

The three winners of the 8th edition of the ReTech Awards 2023 are:

Winner: Kiko

Kiko Live is a platform where one can discover shops around the location, and visit them virtually over an audio/video call using a patented live shopping solution. Sellers can also list and sell on ONDC and get a digital storefront. Kiko Live enables Live Quick Commerce for stores of every size and category, helping stores grow their business and deliver the orders quickly with online tracking.

1st Runner up: Intugine

Intugine is a leading real-time multimodal supply chain visibility enabler, leveraging its expertise in IoT technology to help businesses optimise & digitise their logistics operations. It has many SaaS modules and products like FTL and PTL Tracking, Container Tracking, e-POD, Control Tower, Yard Management, Smart Locks, GPS & other IoT devices. They give manufacturers, shippers, retailers, and quick commerce companies visibility over their assets across modalities on a single platform.

2nd Runner Up: Promanage

ProManage is a Marketing as a Service (MaaS) platform, trusted by many publicly traded companies, prominent brands, mainstream agencies, and local business owners.

ProManage is currently transforming over 5000 businesses by harnessing the power of hyperlocal marketing. ProManage’s market intelligence, along with its strong tech partnerships with Google, Microsoft Bing, Meta, Sulekha and other prominent platforms, strengthens the hyperlocal SEO for each of your store listings.

The shortlisted retail technology startups that made it to the finals included:

1. Intugine

2. Is Going Online

3. Kiko

4. Kirana Club

5. Omniflo

6. ProManage

7. Reelo technologies Pvt. Ltd.

8. Smooth Tag Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

9. Styledotme (mirrAR)

10. TROS Online Shopping Pvt. Ltd.

11. ZipLip (Asterloop Tech Pvt. Ltd.)

G+D and Sony Semiconductor Israel Launch First Solution for Remote SIM Provisioning of iSIMs

Munich, 27 September 2023 – The integrated SIM (iSIM) is an important evolutionary step in SIM technology, empowering simple and cost-efficient connection, deployment and go-to-market for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Giesecke+Devrient (G+D) is playing a key role in shaping this development and, together with Sony Semiconductor Israel (Sony), is launching the first commercial iSIM solution that supports remote SIM provisioning.

The iSIM, or integrated Universal Integrated Circuit Card (iUICC), has the potential to revolutionize IoT and makes devices more flexible and efficient. It is cost-optimized, smaller, more adaptable and sustainable than previous generations of SIMs and will complement established solutions such as the pluggable SIM and eSIM. As the world’s first providers, G+D and Sony are now taking iSIM development a step further by introducing a secure solution that is specifically designed for remote SIM provisioning (RSP), enabling seamless over-the-air activation and management of SIM profiles. This allows for high flexibility to choose the preferred cellular network throughout the long lifespan of an IoT device, while also offering the most cost-effective solution over its lifetime, according to a recent whitepaper from Transforma Insights. The capability to set profiles depending on the device’s location simplifies the global scaling of deployments. Additionally, RSP helps streamline production, storage, and logistics processes, to enhance operational efficiency.

The new solution is based on the iSIM-enabled ALT1350 chipset by Sony, which now supports standardized and future-proof RSP. G+D’s secure SIM operating system (OS) is stored in a tamper-resistant element (TRE) within a system-on-a-chip (SoC), unlike insertable SIM cards or soldered eSIMs. It acts as an isolated hardware component that is combined with a baseband chipset to form a single connectivity module.

The iSIM offers numerous advantages: Less hardware comes with minimal footprint and enables the production of small, lightweight and therefore cost-effective devices, and the optimized energy consumption increases device efficiency. High security is provided by the isolated hardware in combination with G+D’s secure and certified SIM OS. Production and warehousing processes can be optimized because there is no need to solder different hardware components or plug SIM cards into the device. Finally, iSIMs also support higher sustainability requirements, without slots, additional housings or plastic.

Due to its low power consumption and small size, the iSIM is an ideal choice for battery-constrained IoT devices operating in low-power wide-area networks (LPWANs) through Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) or Long Term Evolution for Machines (LTE-M) technologies. Wearables are also among the potential areas of application. Typical use cases can be found in market segments such as smart metering, agtech, smart health, tracking and tracing or the entire spectrum of massive IoT.

With the AirOn360® central SIM management solution, G+D provides a comprehensive service for over-the-air administration of iSIMs. It supports both remote SIM provisioning of network operator-specific data and update management. The solution complies with GSMA RSP specifications for consumer, M2M and IoT applications and helps Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or device owners manage the iSIM lifecycle efficiently and securely. RSP in accordance with the new GSMA SGP.32 standard for M2M/IoT use cases empowers IoT device operators with maximum flexibility in their choice of mobile network operators. This allows them to choose the optimal provider in terms of cost, service quality or network coverage, for example.

“As market leader in eSIM, G+D has been investing in the research and development of iSIM technology for a long time. Together with industry partners, we want to accelerate SIM innovation. A good example for this is our cooperation with Sony, under which we are now announcing the industry’s first commercial iSIM with remote SIM provisioning. This pioneering achievement empowers our customers to unlock the full potential of the IoT with flexible and cost-optimized connectivity. We are convinced that this will be another important milestone in the iSIM evolution,” explains Bernd Müller, Head of Technology and Strategy in the connectivity & IoT business at G+D.

“This solution marks another joint success between Sony and G+D. The iSIM is poised to reshape the future of IoT in which everything is connected,” added Dima Feldman, VP Product Management & Marketing at Sony Semiconductor Israel. “Our ALT1350 baseband chipset combined with G+D’s SIM operating system and management solution, has led to a powerful, simple, and secure IoT connectivity management system that will drive the market forward.”

Bhutani Infra Shines as a Symbol of Innovation at UP International Trade Show 2023

India’s leading real estate developer showcasing its exclusive properties, offering an interactive experience

27th September 2023, Noida: The UP International Trade Show 2023, held from September 21st to 25th, has successfully showcased the diverse products and investment opportunities of Uttar Pradesh (UP) to a global audience. In its inaugural edition, the event has garnered significant attention from both domestic and international buyers, emphasizing UP’s emergence as a hub for innovation and business prospects.

Bhutani Infra, a leading real estate developer in India, made a remarkable impact during its participation in the UP International Trade Show 2023. Visitors at the event had the opportunity to engage with Bhutani Infra’s company representative, showcasing their exclusive properties and offering a hands-on experience that immersed them in the architectural brilliance and luxurious designs of the company’s prestigious projects. The overwhelmingly positive response to Bhutani Infra’s showcase reaffirmed its leadership in the real estate sector and its commitment to establishing international standards in design and innovation.

Mr. Ashish Bhutani, Chief Executive Officer of Bhutani Infra, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Bhutani Infra is dedicated to delivering luxurious and pioneering projects that aim to revolutionize the real estate sector in India. The UP International Trade Show provided an excellent platform for companies like ours to introduce our innovative products designed for the future. These projects have been developed to set international standards, drawing inspiration from deep customer insights and addressing the real estate needs of our nation.”

Since its inception, Bhutani Infra has consistently exceeded the expectations of over a hundred thousand satisfied customers by delivering high-end properties that enrich lives through luxurious and innovative spaces. As Bhutani Infra continues to shape the future of real estate in India, this exhibition was a remarkable platform for visitors to witness the grandeur of their projects up close and personal.
About Bhutani Infra: Established in 1996, Bhutani Group is a renowned real estate company that is leading the way in transforming urban townships and actively shaping the future of cities. Since its inception, the company has delivered more than 19 projects, catering to over 100,000 customers, and has firmly established itself as a leader in delivering high-quality properties that effectively cater to the evolving needs and aspirations of modern India.

IWFCI (India Chapter) Women Entrepreneur Awards 2023

Mumbai, India/September 26th, 2023– The IWFCI INDIA NATIONAL CHAPTER ‘Women Entrepreneurship Awards 2023’ has been instituted to encourage, recognize, reward and celebrate women entrepreneurs who have established successful micro, small and medium enterprises. The International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry (IWFCI) is a non-profit, non-government organization that was formed in 1992 in Melbourne, Australia by Ms. Diana Abruzzi.

IWFCI INDIA was established to meet the emerging needs of women in business and in recognition of their increasing contribution to the world of commerce, the community and to government.

IWFCI India, registered as Forum of Women in Commerce and Industry, a Section 8 Company registered under the Companies Act, 2013, is committed to supporting entrepreneurial skills in women and helps them to scale up their businesses through the network of IWFCI global chapters. IWFCI India has been conducting many events and activities in the recent past to promote their vision and have been able to leave a meaningful impact among budding women entrepreneurs.

A special award was instituted for an outstanding women entrepreneur for displaying exemplary entrepreneurship. This award ‘Women Entrepreneur Award 2023’ was conferred on Bengaluru-based Suhasini Sampath, Founder of Sprout Life Foods and formulator of the Yoga Bar for health and fitness.

The ‘Women Social Entrepreneur Award 2023’ was bagged by Alina Alam, Founder and CEO of ‘Mitti Social Initiatives Foundation’. Their vision is to empower the lives of persons with disabilities and foster disability inclusion through sustainable livelihood opportunities. The Mitti Cafés operate in major airports in India.

The ‘Women Business Entrepreneur Award 2023’ was bagged by Bangalorean Aruna Sampige of ‘Roots Reforms Initiatives Pvt. Ltd’. The organisation works on bridging the gap in ‘access’ and ‘choices’ of financial services to women in the unreached segments.

Women entrepreneurs (one each from the business sector and from the social sector) from micro, small and medium size businesses were conferred with the IWFCI Women Entrepreneurship Awards. Each award carries a cash prize of Rs. 50,000 each, a trophy and a citation.

The event ‘IWFCI Entrepreneurship Summit and Women Entrepreneurship Awards 2023’ saw a wide reach among IWFCI members across 14 chapters around the globe, members of various business networks, budding management student entrepreneurs and the general public.

Chief guest, Rajesh Dembla, Founder Zoozle.in said “Women will contribute over 60% of the growth that the industry will see in this decade. The world of entrepreneurship is about to change on its head. Any organisation that does not have about 45% women in their leadership, will cease to produce relevant products in the next few years.”

Ms. Diana Abruzzi, Founder and International Chair of IWFCI spoke on ‘The Building of the Entrepreneurial Mindset impacting Global Economies”

Ms. Archana Shiroor, Chief Human Resources Officer of Yes Bank said that according to the Boston Consultancy Group (BCG) there will be a 90% growth in women led businesses in the next 5 years. And IWFCI INDIA is all poised to help women face the challenges of the changing world.

Dr. Rema Ramchandran, Director IWFCI-India in her opening remarks said that we are here to celebrate the achievements and contributions of outstanding women entrepreneurs who have defied norms and shattered glass ceilings. Your resilience, creativity, and dedication have not only impacted the business world but have also inspired countless individuals around the globe.

IWFCI INDIA is led by Dr. Daphne Pillai, a leading educationist for over 30 years, who is the Chairperson of the Management Board, Mahatma Education Society and co-founder of the Pillai Group of Institutions which runs 48 educational institutions where 30000 students’ study annually. She was felicitated for her contribution to education and especially for her efforts to empower the underprivileged women in society through Adult Literacy Drives and Skill Development Programmes by various international women’s organisations. She firmly believes that “women are naturally empowered but only need the encouragement and the right environment to blossom, and it is for us to step in, step out and climb up”.

She was the winner of the ‘Assocham Women Achiever of the Year Award – 2019’ which was held jointly with the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt of India. The award was conferred on her by the Hon. Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani.

Dr. Daphne Pillai is also the founder of the Soroptimist International Bombay Chembur, a women’s international organization which works for the welfare of women and works towards “Educating, Empowering and Enabling” women to build better lives for themselves.

Dr. Daphne PIllai says “It’s very important for society to recognise women entrepreneurs and their contribution to the economic growth of the country. It is also important for women to have role models to emulate. The IWFCI-INDIA Women Entrepreneur Awards celebrate women’s initiative, drive and determination to make their businesses successful and thus they become role models to other women who wish to enter the entrepreneurial space.”

“The Women’s Reservation Bill recently passed in Parliament will provide for women’s political participation and decision making in government policy and planning. This will in turn have a major impact on women entrepreneurs across all spectrums who will be beneficiaries of government programs, schemes and funding for their entrepreneurial initiatives and financial empowerment.”

Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2023 Showcases Akshaya Patra Foundation’s Impactful Initiatives

Greater Noida, September 25th, 2023 — The Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show, a collaborative effort between the Government of Uttar Pradesh and various stakeholders, is set to take place from September 21st to September 25th, 2023, at the prestigious India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida. This distinguished event aims to provide a pivotal platform for businesses of all scales to showcase their offerings and promote their endeavors.

A highlight of this event will be the significant presence of the Akshaya Patra Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating classroom hunger and malnutrition in India. In alignment with the Government of India’s PM POSHAN Initiative, the Foundation has been tirelessly working to address these critical societal issues.

Sri Bharatarshabha Dasa, National President and trustee of The Akshaya Patra Foundation, said, “The Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2023 stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit between the Government of Uttar Pradesh and dedicated stakeholders. Our collective efforts today shape a brighter, hunger-free tomorrow for the children of India. Let us continue this noble journey together.”

Mr. Anant Arora, Chief Sustainability and Communication Officer, of The Akshaya Patra Foundation, said, “Through concerted efforts and collaboration, the Akshaya Patra Foundation is making significant strides in eradicating classroom hunger and malnutrition. Our impact in Uttar Pradesh serving nutritious meals aligns with SDG 2 and SDG 4. We sincerely thank the Government of Uttar Pradesh, the Ministry of Education, the Government of India, and all our generous supporters.”

The Akshaya Patra Foundation presently serves nutritious mid-day meals to 258,938 school children across 3,639 schools in key cities of Uttar Pradesh, including Vrindavan, Varanasi, Lucknow, Barsana, and Mathura, through its six strategically located kitchens. This initiative directly aligns with two pivotal Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 2 – Zero Hunger and SDG 4 – Quality Education.

In an effort to expand its impact further, the Akshaya Patra Foundation is set to launch new projects in Agra, Kanpur, Gorakhpur, and Modinagar, which will extend support in feeding over 15 crore noon-meals to children annually. The Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the State Government of Uttar Pradesh, the Ministry of Education, the Government of India, and all corporate and individual donors who have been instrumental in supporting this commendable program.

Two Agencies Join Valley Insurance Agency Alliance’s Exclusive Marketing Program

Longtime alliance agencies Thomas Insurance Advisors and Wiley Insurance Agency to benefit from members-only service.

(St. Louis, Mo., Sept. 25, 2023) Valley Insurance Agency Alliance (VIAA), a cohesive family of more than 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois, recently welcomed two alliance agencies to its members-only Commercial Marketing pod program. VIAA offers this exclusive carrier rating platform service to only 15 alliance agencies.

VIAA’s Commercial Marketing pod program utilizes an experienced alliance employee to assist agents with obtaining the best quotes for commercial clients. The newest marketing members are Thomas Insurance Advisors and Wiley Insurance Agency.

Thomas Insurance Advisors is a full-service insurance agency founded in 2007 that specializes in business, home, and automobile insurance. The company is owned by Gary Thomas, and the office is located at 632 Trade Center Blvd. in Chesterfield, Mo.

Wiley Insurance Agency is a full-service agency founded in 2014 that specializes in personal, commercial, farm, and life insurance. The company is owned by lifelong West Plains’ resident Traci Wiley, who has 30 years of insurance industry experience in the community. The office is located at 3737 N. Hwy. 63 in West Plains, Mo.

“Our service brings invaluable in-house product and marketing solutions to a select number of alliance agencies,” said VIAA’s President JD Powers. “In 2022, members received an average of $2.04 in commission for every dollar invested in payroll toward our Commercial Marketing Pod program.” Powers added that, “our brokering commercial insurance service was created to allow these members the time to focus solely on sales opportunities, which is a win-win situation for everyone in this partnership.”

Founded in 2006, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance generates more than $600 million in written premium and is the regional founding member SIAA – The Agent Alliance, a $12.5 billion national insurance network. Founded in 1991, sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.viaa4u.com.

3332 VST Power Tillers Distributed to Farmers by The Government of Tamil Nadu

Chennai, September  2023: 3332 VST Power Tillers were distributed by the Agricultural Engineering Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu to small and marginal farmers across the state at a subsidized rate.

VST Power Tillers are the most affordable and efficient farm equipment suited for small and marginal farmers in India. These machines can be used for bund formation, inter-cultivation, earthing up, & de-weeding, and puddling. It is a multi-crop specialist best suited for ginger, turmeric, sugarcane, vegetable crops, cotton, red gram, and horticulture crops.

The power tiller delivery event was organized across the state with the aim of bolstering agricultural productivity, easing the challenges faced by farmers, and increasing small farm mechanization in the state. The delivery of power tillers was inaugurated by the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru. Mr. M.K. Stalin in Chennai. Ministers, MPs, MLAs, and local body representatives participated in the mega-delivery event across Tamil Nadu. The Farmers selected for this program are from the beneficiary villages of the ‘Kalaignarin All Village Integrated Farm Development Scheme (KAVIADP).’

VST Tillers Tractors Limited was established in the year 1967 by the VST Group of companies. With a legacy of more than 55 years, VST continues to drive farm mechanization and empowerment of Indian farmers. The organization is the largest Indian manufacturer of Tillers, and 4WD Compact Tractors, and amongst the leading producers of the other category of Tractors, Engines, Transmission, Power Reaper, and Precision Components. VST also exports products to European, Asian, and African markets.