23, Sep 2024
India’s The Clarks Hotels & Resorts upgrades to Hotelogix Cloud to centralize operations and drive growth

Bangaluru, 23rd Sep 2024: Hotelogix, a globally leading cloud-based hospitality technology provider, said India’s The Clarks Hotels & Resorts has adopted its multi-property management system. Hotelogix’s robust and comprehensive platform will empower The Clarks Hotels & Resorts with centralized control over all properties to enhance guest experience and drive revenue growth.

mr.aryavir

The Clarks Hotels & Resorts, has rapidly grown to become one of India’s fastest-growing hotel groups operating in premium, select, essential and extended stay categories. The group is known for pioneering the hospitality segment in India and continuously evolving to cater to the needs of its patrons through its eleven sub-brands like The Clarks, Clarks Premier, Clarks Exotica, Villas & Suites by The Clarks, Clarks inn Suites, Clarks Safari, Clarks Residences, Clarks inn, Clarks Collection, Clarks inn Express and aôtel. It operates 135+ diverse properties with 6000+ keys in India, Sri Lanka and Maldives. Apart from its footprint in India, the company is working towards foraying into Europe very soon as part of its global expansion plan.

The Clarks Hotels & Resorts that was running operations on-premises solutions decided to upgrade to a cloud-based multi-property management system. This transition allows the group to achieve a centralized and unified view of operations across all properties. By moving to this system, they can now easily access guest history and manage online distribution from a single platform, ensuring a more streamlined and cohesive operational framework

Speaking about their decision to migrate to the cloud, Aryavir Kumar, Managing Director of The Clarks Hotels & Resorts, said, “We aim to establish The Clarks Hotels & Resorts as a prominent global brand out of India by rapidly expanding our presence in South Asia, Middle East and Europe. And this will only be possible when we have all the modern tools to manage a massive group like us with efficient centralized control.”

Expressing his views on selecting Hotelogix cloud, Aryavir further added, “We have been investing heavily in technology and wanted to upgrade to a cloud platform to digitize our operations. The objective was to work with a trusted Hotel PMS partner who could help us improve efficiency, gain better control over business processes, and grow our portfolio with minimal IT overhead costs. Hotelogix met all our criteria. We are sure this strategic decision to adopt Hotelogix will help us achieve our desired business objectives.”

In addition to the multi-property management system, Hotelogix has equipped Clarks Hotels & Resorts with a Mobile PMS app to assist them in tracking hotel positions on the go. Integration with a third-party Channel Manager will also enable real-time OTA distribution management. Hotelogix’s POS system will also enhance the management of multiple revenue streams like restaurants, banquet halls, and fitness centers.

“We thank Clarks Hotels & Resorts for selecting Hotelogix and welcome them to our growing client base,” said Aditya Sanghi, CEO of Hotelogix. “As their strategic partner, we are committed to seamlessly upgrading them to the cloud via faster deployment across all their properties, enabling them to drive rapid expansion with a strong focus on centralized control.”

23, Sep 2024
Belkin Launches The Ultimate Auto Tracking Stand Pro with DockKit for the first time in India

National, 23 September, 2024: Belkin, a leading consumer electronics brand for over four decades, has introduced the world’s first Apple-certified Works with DockKit accessory, the Auto-Tracking Stand Pro in India. Tailored for today’s content-driven lifestyle, this innovative product promises to redefine the video creation experience for content creators, filmmakers, educators, virtual presenters, social app developers, and others. The Auto-Tracking Stand Pro can be purchased through Apple stores, Apple-certified premium resellers along with e-commerce platforms like flipkart, amazon and stores like Reliance Electronics and Croma.

belkin

Designed for seamless functionality, the Auto-Tracking Stand Pro eliminates the hassle of relying on third-party apps. Its automated subject-tracking technology is designed to follow subjects on camera as they move around their space with 360 degrees of pan and 90 degrees of tilt. Setting up the device is quite effortless – simply snap an iPhone 12 or later with MagSafe onto the stand, pair it via NFC, and start recording instantly using popular apps like FaceTime, Instagram, TikTok, or Microsoft Teams. The stand offers unparalleled convenience, making it the perfect tool for capturing dynamic shots without missing a beat.

Adding to its appeal, the Auto-Tracking Stand Pro is made more responsibly with a minimum of 75% PCR materials and sold in plastic-free packaging aligning with Belkin’s commitment to find more responsible ways to build products.

Kartik Bakshi, Regional Sales Director, SAARC and Indo-China, shared his excitement at the launch, “The consumer technology landscape in India is rapidly expanding, with projections reaching a US$ 200-250 billion market by 2025. At Belkin, we aim to stay ahead of the curve by introducing breakthrough products that resonate with the evolving needs of our audience. The Auto-Tracking Stand Pro represents a significant leap in video technology, combining top-tier standards with advanced subject-tracking capabilities. We’re thrilled to present a tool that will elevate how creators interact with video content, offering them greater freedom and creativity in their craft.”

Key-Features:
● 360º Movement Tracking: Ensures subjects remain in the frame throughout the room.
● MagSafe Charging: Fast wireless charging up to 15W with power supply plug-in.
● 90º Motorized Auto Tilt: Adjusts the camera angle automatically for versatile shooting.
● Single Button Activation: Simple on/off tracking control with an LED indicator.
● Rechargeable Battery: 5 hours of battery life for use.

The Auto-Tracking Stand Pro is not just a tech accessory – it’s a lifestyle upgrade for those passionate about creating high-quality content on the go. The DockKit comes with all the essentials, including a 5-ft. USB-C to USB-C cable for instant setup. The stand is compatible with iPhones running iOS 17 and later, specifically optimized for iPhone 12 and newer models.

23, Sep 2024
Influencer Marketing Report 2024: Influencer Industry expected to hit 5,500 crores by the end of 2024

Chennai, Monday, 23rd September 2024: The Influencer Marketing Report 2024, (IMR) one of the definitive reports on the Influencer Marketing Industry was released today by Influencer.in one of the fastest-growing influencer platforms in the country and an initiative by Social Beat. Influencer.in releases the Influencer Marketing Industry report annually and this is the fourth edition of the report.

The Influencer marketing report presents a comprehensive look at the industry providing insights on Influencer Marketing and its trends. The report for 2024 compiled over a survey of 100 plus brands and responses from over 500 plus creators & influencers reveals what makes influencer marketing successful and offers insights into the influencer industry’s future.

With the creator economy in India experiencing significant growth, driven by a multitude of platforms and an expanding community of tech-savvy individuals. Influencer marketing is becoming essential for brands, with the industry expected to grow by 25% annually. The IMR report offers valuable insights and data on successful collaborations, industry trends, and the role of data analytics in influencer marketing. Top highlights include the estimated industry size for 2024, growth projections, and increasing allocation of marketing budgets to influencer marketing.

Influencer Brand Tango 2024

Suneil Chawla, co-founder Social Beat and Influencer.in, said, “Challenges persist from a return of investment measurement to platform algorithms, the growth opportunities are vast. By embracing trends like the rise of micro-influencers, leveraging dominant platforms like Instagram, YouTube and Linkedin and using influencer analytic tools effectively, brands and creators can continue to thrive in this ever evolving marketing landscape. As we look to the future, the key will be staying adaptable, innovative and aligned with the values of an increasingly discerning audience.”

Arushi Gupta, Business Head, Influencer.in, said, “Both influencers and brands share the goal of building authentic connections with audiences. Influences seek long term collaborations to maintain and enhance their credibility and engagement. Brands aim to partner with influencers who can deliver high-quality content and align with their brand values enhancing overall campaign effectiveness There is a mutual aspiration for transparency, accountability and leveraging emerging opportunities such as influencer analytic tools.”

The Indian influencer marketing industry is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Brands now prioritize content quality and authentic connections, leading to a preference for micro and nano influencers over high follower counts.

Here are the industry highlights:

– Industry size estimated to be INR 5,500 crores by 2024

– The Influencer industry represents 11% of the Digital media industry

– Anticipated industry growth of 20% in 2024 and 25% annually from 2024 to 2026

– By 2028, over 80% of brands are projected to allocate up to 30% of their marketing budgets to influencer marketing

– 40 – 57% of brands in categories like FMCG, e-commerce, and automobiles are expected to increase spending on influencer marketing by 10% by 2026.

Key trends in 2024:

– The rise of mid-tier influencers.

– Platform dominance in influencer marketing:

– Instagram is the top choice for both creators and brands.

– The low adoption of LinkedIn among creators at 4.4% contrasts with 19.5% of brands using it for influencer marketing. Brands should educate or onboard creators to this platform, especially those capable of delivering professional content.

– Brands need to recognize the underutilization of YouTube Shorts, with 75% of creators using short-form content for engagement.

– It is crucial; for brands to focus on creating short-form content through Shorts and Reels to expand their audience reach.

Today, over 40% of brands spend more on influencer marketing, but influencers feel that budget constraints limit partnerships. There’s a need for brands to move beyond transactional relationships, recognize the power of creators, and empower them with creative freedom. Creators should align with brand objectives while showcasing their unique value proposition for more authentic, engaging campaigns.

Challenges for brands

– Measuring ROI.

– Establishing influencer brand fit.

– Challenges with the budget.

Challenges for creators.

– Building a loyal audience.

– Fair compensation and brand support.

– Creative freedom.

Analytics plays a crucial role in influencer marketing. With the rapid growth of influencers, brands must select the right influencers to drive traffic within their budget and market segment. Analytics tools are essential for creating foolproof pre-launch and post-launch strategies. Selecting influencers based on key metrics such as location, interests, age, gender, and engagement rate is paramount for a successful campaign.

The report ends with identifying the top Influencers in India in the fields of Travel, technology, health & fitness, food, Business, Beauty, comedy and fashion and lifestyle

23, Sep 2024
Bitty Clicks Expands with a New Studio in Pallavaram: A Dedicated Space for Food and Product Photography

Chennai, India – September 2024 – Bitty Clicks, the brainchild of renowned photographer M. Sharmila, has officially opened the doors to its new studio in Pallavaram, Chennai. This cutting-edge facility is designed specifically to cater to the growing demand for high-quality food and product photography, providing brands and businesses with a space dedicated to capturing their unique stories through the lens.

bitty

 The new studio, which boasts a skilled team of four, is fully equipped with advanced tools, professional cameras, and sophisticated lighting setups to meet the specific needs of food and product photography. Whether you are a restaurant, cafe, food brand, or any business that requires visual storytelling for your products, Bitty Clicks offers the ideal environment to bring your vision to life.

 “The idea behind this studio is to create a space where anyone in the food and product industry can get their shoots done with ease,” says Sharmila, Founder of Bitty Clicks. “We’ve always believed in delivering visuals that are unique to each brand. With this new space, we can better serve our clients with the specialized equipment and setting needed for high-end photography.”

 With over 10 years of experience and collaborations with well-known brands like Akshayakalpa, P-Tal, Titan, and Dawaat, Bitty Clicks has established itself as a trusted partner in the world of commercial photography. The studio’s expansion reflects its ongoing commitment to providing top-tier services in food and product photography, which include stills, videography, and stop-motion content.

 The new Bitty Clicks studio will continue to offer its signature theme-based projects, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in every shot. Clients can expect tailor-made services that align with their branding needs, all under one roof. Customizable packages are also available to accommodate different scales and requirements.

23, Sep 2024
Affinity Salons on a Rapid Expansion: Revamping Strategy for Luxury Beauty Services

Affinity Salon, under the visionary leadership of Mr. Vinit Dua, has become a distinguished name in the luxury beauty and salon industry. With a mission to make premium salon services more accessible, Affinity continues to deliver top-tier beauty treatments across Delhi-NCR, establishing itself as a leader in quality, innovation, and unmatched customer service.

saloon

Offering a comprehensive range of unisex services, including expert haircuts, coloring, keratin treatments, facials, manicures, pedicures, and professional makeup services, Affinity is synonymous with a luxurious experience. This is all made possible by a team of highly skilled professionals and state-of-the-art technology.

Continuing its rapid expansion, Affinity is set to open a new salon in Green Park, Delhi, by the end of the month. This new facility will feature cutting-edge equipment, an extensive array of beauty services, premium product offerings, and exclusive loyalty programs with special promotions, ensuring customers receive a truly high-end salon experience.

22, Sep 2024
Building the Future: Club NPC 2024 Unites India’s Construction Fraternity

Over 12,000 Members Discuss Skills, Technology, and the Future of India’s Infrastructure

Club NPC’s Annual Event 2024 (1)

New Delhi, India – September 22, 2024

The Club NPC Annual General Meeting (AGM) and networking event, held on September 21, 2024, at the PHD Chamber of Commerce in New Delhi, brought together over 15,000 members from various sectors of the construction industry. Leaders, professionals, and stakeholders participated in a landmark event that emphasized innovation, knowledge-sharing, and a unified approach to advancing India’s construction industry.

Keynote by ‘Airport King of India’ Sparks Dialogue on Skill Development and Technology

Prof. Charanjeet Singh Shah, renowned as the ‘Airport King of India’ for his work on major airports across the country, delivered a powerful keynote address, highlighting the importance of integrating new skills and technologies in the construction sector. “To meet the goals of Prime Minister Modi’s Viksit Bharat mission by 2047, we must equip our workforce with advanced skills like AutoCAD and artificial intelligence. This is not just about upgrading technology but uplifting laborers by imparting these critical skills,” said Prof. Shah.

Club NPC’s Annual Event 2024 (1)

Prof. Shah’s emphasis on skill development resonated with attendees as he outlined how technological advancements can align the construction industry with India’s ambitious growth targets.

Leaders of Club NPC Highlight Unity, Innovation, and Community Service

Mr. Yogesh Jagatramka, President of Club NPC India, opened the event by reiterating the organization’s core mission of creating a close-knit network to drive India’s progress. “We are a family of the people, by the people, and for the people. Together, we can reshape the future of India’s infrastructure by fostering collaboration and innovation across all sectors of the construction industry.”

Vice President Mr. Karan Arora emphasized the need for continual self-improvement: “Our focus on self-discovery and learning ensures that our members stay ahead of industry trends, continually upgrading their skills to remain competitive.”

Club NPC’s Annual Event 2024 (1)

Ms. Rieetu Bhatnagar, Secretary of Club NPC, celebrated the deep friendships and professional bonds formed within the organization, saying, “These relationships not only enhance our careers but also our personal growth.”

Md. Perwez, Director of Finance and Founder-Treasurer, lauded the role of Club NPC members during the pandemic. “Our members served like Corona Warriors, ensuring essential construction projects continued during the most challenging times. Their efforts demonstrated the power of unity and commitment to societal welfare,” said Perwez.

Driving Change and Future Growth

The event marked a significant moment for the construction industry, offering a platform for stakeholders to discuss the future of India’s infrastructure and the role of technology, education, and collaboration. The discussions and workshops are expected to set the stage for groundbreaking developments, helping India’s construction sector play a key role in the nation’s future growth trajectory.

21, Sep 2024
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Showcases Special-Purpose Iconic Hilux at Himtech 2024

Bengaluru, 21st September 2024: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today showcased special-purpose Hilux (modified with the support of an authorized external vendor) at the Himtech 2024 symposium, organized by the Indian Army jointly with FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry). Moving towards the national goal of “Raksha Atamanirbharta’, and to provide the defense forces with access to the best equipment and solutions available, these two organizations (Indian Army & FICCI) have collaborated for “HIMTECH 2024” with an emphasis on utilizing military technology for high altitude areas (HAA). The event, held at the Rinchen Auditorium Grounds, Leh, Ladakh, on 20th and 21st September 2024, witnessed the presence of senior officials from the Army Commands, Air Force, ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police), defense users and other key dignitaries along with representatives from TKM.

 Toyota Hilux

Driven by Toyota’s renowned QDR (Quality, Durability, and Reliability), this 4×4 all-terrain, off-road vehicle is expertly engineered to perform in the most demanding environments, making it the perfect choice for diverse customers with specialized needs, including the specific purposes of the Indian Army which are modified with the support of an authorized external vendor. These curated vehicles signify TKM’s commitment to identify unique solutions to cater to diverse consumers’ needs across markets and verticals, enabling ‘Mobility for All’. During the event, TKM exhibited customised Hilux emphasizing its versatility and robust capabilities for defense and commercial applications:

Hilux FDV (Field Deployment Vehicle): This model showcased its commercial viability with a focus on heavy-duty applications. It had previously undergone successful trials with the Northern Indian Army Command, proving its adaptability for demanding military operations. This is specifically designed to excel in tasks such as remote location diagnostics and repair, as well as the movement of supplies and spare parts, making it ideal for stimulating environments.
Modified Hilux: Designed to exhibit exceptional off-road performance, equipped with upgraded suspensions, specialized tires, and a snorkel to handle rugged and difficult terrains. Its modifications highlight enhanced capabilities for rough terrain, ensuring reliability even in extreme conditions.

Last year, TKM displayed two Hilux – Field Diagnosis Vehicle (FDV) and Rapid Intervention Vehicle (RIV) at the North Tech Symposium organised by Northern Command of Indian Army. TKM handed over a large fleet of Hilux, marking the company’s first-ever delivery of its Hilux to the Indian Army. Additionally, the company has provided necessary off-road driving as well as vehicle maintenance trainings for the vehicle drivers and service technicians respectively at the Northern Command of the Indian Army. Needless to say, Toyota’s participation in high-profile forums reflects its strong support towards country’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense sector, by leveraging its technological expertise in mobility space.

Sharing his views, Mr. V. Wiseline Sigamani, Vice President – Strategic Business Unit (North) of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We are honoured to participate in Himtech 2024 and showcase the distinctive features of specially-purposed Hilux (modified with the support of an authorized external vendor). The global iconic reputation of Hilux being a powerful performer is the courtesy of its rigid Innovative Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) platform and a strong powertrain system. These modified vehicles reflect Toyota’s technological capabilities in developing customised solutions to meet the unique customer requirements (e.g. army purposes) and great practicality for various commercial usages. Further, these vehicles have been engineered keeping in mind the operational challenges of army troops be it the drivability through rough terrains, patrolling movement, surveillance including night visions, digital video for recording and winch for rescue operations during emergency situations and more.

As we continue to innovate and enhance our product offerings, we remain committed to support such uniquely purposed requirements as may arise going forward.”

Spanning more than five decades and eight generations, the Hilux continues to deliver extraordinary experiences, forming an unbreakable bond with those seeking thrilling drives. Designed to meet the diverse needs of consumers, the Hilux excels not only as a versatile utility vehicle for off-road adventures on tough terrains but also proves its practicality in daily city commutes. Furthermore, the Hilux supports a wide range of industries, including agriculture, defense, mining, construction, and more. It also serves emerging businesses as a reliable campervan or rescue vehicle. Powered by a robust 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, it offers both 6-speed automatic and manual transmission options, ensuring a powerful and efficient performance. With an impressive 700mm water wading capacity, it redefines off-road capability, making it the perfect choice for tackling rugged Indian landscapes. Known for its durability, low maintenance costs, and adaptability, the Hilux is ideal for various applications, including general customers’ personal preferences be it for business or the family.

20, Sep 2024
Belicia revenue soars to over 200 crores in Q1 with record 80+ units sold

Mumbai, September 20, 2024: ‘Belicia’ a luxurious residential project in Thane being developed by Prescon Group in collaboration with the esteemed House of Hiranandani has generated over 200 crores in revenue in Q1 of FY 2024-25, driven by the sale of more than 80 units.

Mr. Vedanshu Kedia - Director, Prescon Group

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Vedanshu Kedia, Director of Prescon Group said, “We are thrilled at achieving this remarkable milestone which underscores the strong market demand and the unparalleled appeal of our luxury offerings. As we continue to redefine upscale living in Thane, this achievement not only reflects our commitment to excellence but also positions Belicia as a beacon of luxury and a promising investment opportunity. We look forward to maintaining this momentum and delivering even greater value to our esteemed customers and investors, going forward.”

Belicia, a landmark 48-storey tower sprawling across 1.5 acres, is redefining luxury living in the Thane region with a RERA possession date set for June 2028. Located on the prestigious Nitin Company Compound near Nitin Company junction, it offers a prime address with easy access to top tier local transport, esteemed schools, renowned hospitals, business centers, malls, and dining options.

Belicia offers luxurious 2, 3, and 4 BHK apartments ranging from 779 to 1546 sq ft, starting at Rs. 1.85 crore. Each unit features marble flooring, expansive decks, ample natural light, and ventilation, with select apartments including foyer areas for added privacy. Residents will enjoy panoramic city views and serene Yeoor Hills vistas, with the first habitable floor starting on the 7th level.

According to a recent report by PropEquity, a leading real estate data and analytics firm, Thane has emerged as a standout performer in the real estate market for the first quarter of the calendar year 2024. The city achieved significant sales momentum, recording 26,702 units sold during this period. This impressive figure places Thane among the top cities in terms of quarterly sales, highlighting its robust real estate activity and growing market demand. The strong performance reflects a continued upward trend in property transactions and underscores Thane’s prominence in the real estate sector.

The recent approval by the Union Cabinet for the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project marks a significant milestone set to transform urban mobility and real estate in Thane. Set to become operational by 2029, this project will create vital connections between key residential and commercial hubs, driving substantial growth in the region. As a result, this will further epitomize Thane as an attractive market for investment and appreciation; significantly enhancing the area’s overall economic prosperity.

Panch Pakhadi in Thane (W) saw an 11% price appreciation and 3.02% rental yields in 2022, outperforming other Thane micro-markets. Limited housing supply, superior infrastructure, and upcoming projects are driving this growth. The area’s vibrant commercial hub around Nitin Company further boosts demand. With continued urban development, Panch Pakhadi offers strong investment potential and expected future returns.

Belicia in Panch Pakhadi, Thane is a prestigious address due to its strategic location near the Eastern Express Highway, Thane Railway Station, and upcoming Metro Line 4. Its rapid infrastructure development and connectivity make it highly desirable for both residential and commercial real estate, positioning it as one of the region’s top addresses.

20, Sep 2024
Bank of Baroda announces winners of GenAI Hackathon 2024 held in collaboration with Microsoft

Mumbai, September 19, 2024: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, announced the winners of nationwide online Hackathon on Generative AI, held in collaboration with Microsoft Azure as the technology partner. The nearly three month long Hackathon brought together the brightest minds in the technology and banking sectors to tackle pressing challenges as defined by the Bank through innovative solutions. The hackathon attracted over 26,000 registrations. From these, 180 teams advanced to the prototype building phase, with the top 10 teams showcasing their solutions at the grand finale in Mumbai.

Shri Sanjay Mudaliar, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “Banking today is undergoing transformative changes and this requires constant ideation and reimagining solutions, making use of emerging technologies. Bank of Baroda Hackathon 2024, in collaboration with Microsoft, was truly a celebration of creativity, teamwork and technological prowess. We thank all participants for their enthusiastic participation and congratulate the winners for their outstanding submissions. We will further fine-tune, test and then implement the winning solutions within the Bank, giving winners an opportunity to enhance their prototypes and make them achieve scale.”

In this Hackathon, Bank of Baroda sought groundbreaking solutions in six areas: customer service, financial advisory, audit & compliance, risk management, operational efficiency and personalised content generation. The Top 3 winners and their winning submissions were as follows:

Team Goblins secured the first place, for their ComplianceAI platform designed to automate and streamline compliance processes within banking institutions. This solution integrates real-time updates on regulatory guidelines, AI-driven AML monitoring, and automated audit report generation, addressing critical delays in regulatory compliance and operational inefficiencies.

In joint second place were Team Refo and Team Wisteria. Team Refo presented Refo.dev, an AI-driven lending automation platform which significantly enhances the efficiency of customer on-boarding and product launches. By integrating AI to streamline critical lending processes, Refo.dev reduces operational costs and time-to-market, transforming the lending landscape. Team Wisteria introduced Seva AI, a revolutionary customer service platform that utilises AI for real-time sentiment analysis and personalised customer interactions. This platform ensures a consistent and customised service experience across various channels, markedly improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Team Cyber Wardens secured third place. They developed an AI-powered suite of tools that revolutionizes email management and data accessibility within banks. Their solution automates email categorisation, enhances sentiment analysis, and provides a natural language interface for efficient data retrieval, significantly improving operational responsiveness and customer service.

The teams were felicitated by Shri Sanjay Mudaliar, Executive Director, Shri Saurabh Shukla, Chief Technology Officer, along with other senior functionaries. The winners received cash prizes worth Rs. 5 lakh, Rs. 3 lakh and Rs. 2 lakh for securing the first, second and third positions respectively.

The success of the hackathon was a result of strategic collaboration amongst Bank of Baroda, Microsoft Azure & ID8NXT. The innovative solutions presented by the participants were built using Microsoft Azure services. An extensive promotional campaign, knowledge-sharing sessions, webinars, rigorous mentorship programmes, and robust technological support ensured that participants had the resources and guidance necessary to bring their visions to life.

20, Sep 2024
LEAF partners with Verdana to enter Indonesia, launching Sustainable Agriculture Programs and High-Impact Carbon Credits

Chennai, September 20, 2024: Lawrencedale Agro Processing India (LEAF), India’s leading sustainable and vertically integrated agriculture services company, is making a strategic entry into Indonesia with a focus on delivering innovative climate-resilient agriculture solutions and high-impact carbon credits to millions of marginalised farmers.

This expansion is underscored by a landmark partnership with Verdana International, a global leader in carbon asset management and development, aimed at revolutionizing agricultural practices and generating high-impact carbon credits for Indonesia’s vast network of small-hold farmers.

LEAF Verdana

This collaboration is poised to transform the agricultural landscape for over 15 million marginalized farmers which Verdana and LEAF will be working with. The Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu-headquartered LEAF will introduce climate-resilient farming techniques specifically tailored to the unique challenges faced by these small-hold farmers, enhancing crop productivity, improving soil health, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. These initiatives are designed to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability and bolster economic stability in the region.

In addition to advancing sustainable farming practices, LEAF will lead the generation of high-impact carbon credits. Leveraging Verdana International’s advanced digital technology, this partnership simplifies the carbon validation process, aligning with Indonesia’s national carbon reduction goals. The resulting carbon credits will create a new revenue stream for farmers, further promoting environmental stewardship and economic resilience.

Palat Vijayaraghavan, Founder & CEO of LEAF, emphasized the importance of this expansion: “Our partnership with Verdana International marks a significant milestone in our mission to advance climate-resilient agriculture on a global scale. Over the past decade, we have witnessed the transformative power of sustainable practices among marginalized farmers in India. We are now bringing this expertise to Indonesia, empowering millions of farmers to build a sustainable and prosperous future.”

Building on a decade of experience working with 1.5 million marginalized tribal farmers in India, LEAF’s entry into Indonesia reflects its commitment to uplifting millions of farmers across borders through innovative agricultural practices that have already proven transformative.

Asad Sultan, CEO of Verdana International, remarked: “Collaborating with LEAF is a critical step forward for Indonesia’s farmers. By adopting LEAF’s climate-resilient practices, we are not only enhancing the productivity of our fields but also securing the future of marginalized farmers against the uncertainties of climate change. The integration of sustainable practices and carbon credits will open new avenues for growth and ensure our farmers’ continued contribution to Indonesia’s agricultural landscape.”

This initiative underscores LEAF’s unwavering dedication to promoting inclusive growth and environmental sustainability in agriculture. Together with Verdana International, LEAF aims to make a profound impact on millions of farmers, safeguarding their livelihoods and reinforcing their role in bolstering Indonesia’s food security.