15, Feb 2024
ASUS India bets big on style, introduces two new backpacks for urban professionals
15th Feb, Delhi: Geared up to support the younger demographic in reshaping functionality with a hint of style, ASUS has unveiled its bold new URBN Traveler and URBN Laptop Backpacks. Curated for the modern go-getter, backpacks are ideal for both travel escapades and everyday work. The new additions in the URBN traveler series embody an elevated experience that is pillared with innovation integrating with style for the modern explorer, and functionality fused with contemporary design for urban professionals.
The backpacks offer a practical solution for everyone’s daily needs.
Whether it’s going to work, university, or traveling, the latest bags can carry everything we need for the day while remaining stylish and trendy making them a go-to choice for those who want to combine style and functionality.
In sync with diverse lifestyles, these feature-rich backpacks boast two large front pockets, dual mesh side pockets for water bottles, and an impressive 18L carrying capacity. With two internal accessory pockets and a luggage strap, this backpack is perfect for those who value style and practicality in their everyday carry. The ASUS AP1600 Backpack dons an elite midnight blue color that is suitable for 16” ROG/ASUS laptops whereas the ASUS AP1601 Backpack sports a charcoal grey color that pleases the eyes and is most compatible with the 15.3” ROG/ASUS laptops. The former features a comfortable luggage strap with a weight of only 540 grams, this featherweight bag will be with you, but will never burden you. Moreover, the latter will be your go-to when it comes to traveling light, without compromising on the capacity.
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- By Rabindra
15, Feb 2024
59% of Indian Enterprises have actively deployed AI, highest among countries surveyed: IBM report
INDIA, February 15, 2024 — New research commissioned by IBM (NYSE: IBM) found that about 59% of enterprise-scale organizations (over 1,000 employees) surveyed in India have AI actively in use in their businesses. The ‘IBM Global AI Adoption Index 2023’ found early adopters are leading the way, with 74% of those Indian enterprises already working with AI, having accelerated their investments in AI in the past 24 months in areas like R&D and workforce reskilling.
Ongoing challenges for AI adoption remain, including hiring employees with the right skillsets and ethical concerns, inhibiting businesses from adopting AI technologies into their operations. Therefore, in 2024 addressing these inhibitors would be a priority, like providing people with the relevant skills to work with AI and having a robust AI governance framework.
“The increase in AI adoption and investments by Indian enterprises is a good indicator that they are already experiencing the benefits from AI. However, there is still a significant opportunity to accelerate as many businesses are hesitant to move beyond experimentation and deploy AI at scale,” said Sandip Patel, Managing Director, IBM India & South Asia. “To harness its full potential in the coming months, data and AI governance tools are going to be critical for building AI models responsibly that enterprises can trust and confidently adopt. Without the use of governance tools, AI can expose companies to data privacy issues, legal complications, and ethical dilemmas – cases of which we have already seen plaguing many across the world,” he added.
Highlights for India from the ‘IBM Global AI Adoption Index 2023’ conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of IBM:
Over the last several years, AI adoption has remained steady at large organizations surveyed:
- Today, 59% of IT professionals at large organizations report that they have actively deployed AI while an additional 27% are actively exploring using the technology.
- Similarly, around 6 in 10 of IT professionals at enterprises report that their company is actively implementing generative AI and another 34% are exploring it.
- 74% of IT professionals at companies deploying or exploring AI indicate that their company has accelerated their investments in or rollout of AI in the past 24 months in areas like R&D (67%), reskilling/ workforce development (55%) and building proprietary AI solutions (53%).
Easier to use AI tools and the need to reduce costs and automate processes are driving AI adoption among surveyed companies:
Advances in AI tools that make them more accessible (59%), the need to reduce costs and automate key processes (48%), and the increasing amount of AI embedded into standard off the shelf business applications (47%) are the top factors driving AI adoption.
The skills gap remains the biggest barrier to AI adoption in India:
The top 5 barriers hindering successful AI adoption at enterprises both exploring or deploying AI are limited AI skills and expertise (30%), lack of tools/platforms for developing AI models (28%), AI projects are too complex or difficult to integrate and scale (27%), ethical concerns (26%) and too much data complexity (25%).
The need for trustworthy and governed AI is well understood, but barriers are making it difficult for surveyed companies in India to put into practice:
IT professionals are largely in agreement that consumers are more likely to choose services from companies with transparent and ethical AI practices (98% strongly or somewhat agree) and 94% say being able to explain how their AI reached a decision is important to their business (among companies exploring or deploying AI).
However, despite understanding its importance only a minority are taking key steps towards trustworthy AI like reducing bias (36%), tracking data provenance (46%), making sure they can explain the decisions of their AI models (52%), or developing ethical AI policies (46%).
The top barriers for developing trustworthy and ethical AI are the lack of an AI strategy (57%), lack of company guidelines (55%) and lack of AI governance and management tools that work across all data environments (55%).
Among surveyed organizations in India, AI is already having an impact on the workforce:
- Among companies citing AI’s use to address labor or skills shortages, they are tapping AI to do things like reduce manual or repetitive tasks with automation tools (63%), automate customer self-service answers and actions (63%) or using AI to improve recruiting and human resources (56%).
- 46% are currently training or reskilling employees to work together with new automation and AI tools. 51% said that employees at their organization are excited to work with new AI and automation tools.
15, Feb 2024
The first ever ELLE DÉCOR Kitchens & Wardrobes store unveiled at MG Road
New Delhi, 15th February: Broadleaf Kitchen And Decor Private Limited is proud to unveil the opening of the first-ever ELLE DÉCOR Kitchens & Wardrobes in India, at MG Road (Delhi), thanks to a Licensing agreement with Lagardère Active Enterprises, the business unit of the French-based Lagardère News Group in charge of ELLE DÉCOR Brand’s extension.
Elevating the realms of luxury with gracefulness, Broadleaf Kitchen And Decor Private Limited is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest ELLE DÉCOR Kitchens & Wardrobes store at M.G. Road, Delhi. This elite location is set to redefine opulence and sophistication, offering an exquisite assortment of splendid Italian-made Modular Kitchens & Wardrobes.
The ELLE DÉCOR Kitchens & Wardrobe’s first finest store at MG Road, Delhi, is a haven for design enthusiasts and connoisseurs seeking to infuse their spaces with unparalleled sophistication. From the moment visitors step through the doors, they are immersed in an ambiance that effortlessly blends opulence and functionality. The store is spread across a wide 4500 square feet area. From sleek and modern bespoke Italian-made kitchen designs to impeccably crafted wardrobe solutions, each module in the collection represents the brand’s commitment to the characteristic composition of designer quality. The collection seamlessly combines luxury and functionality, offering an extensive selection of over 100 designs in the Kitchen and wardrobe sections.
The brand takes pride in presenting a diverse range of expansive (100+) designs in kitchens and wardrobes, reflecting the perfect harmony of French poise and Italian artistry of skillfulness technique. This collection promises to transform living spaces into showcases of style and functionality, catering to the varied tastes and preferences of discerning customers.
“With this new store, we aim to bring not just kitchens and wardrobes but an exquisite blend of art and functionality into homes. Our designs are crafted with passion and precision, We are committed to providing products and services that exceed expectations, ensuring a seamless blend of style and practicality for every home” Added Rahul Batra, CEO of Broadleaf Kitchen And Decor Private Limited.
“As a global home decoration brand, ELLE DÉCOR artfully combines a relaxed, carefree spirit with the elegance of the modern, contemporary home, designed to reflect ELLE’s Parisian roots. We are thrilled to bring to the Indian market a premium collection of kitchens and wardrobes, with the finest design and made in Italy, with the launch of the first ELLE DÉCOR Kitchens & Wardrobes collections and store in India. Our brand’s success to date has been thanks to our unique positioning as a global lifestyle brand issued from the media. Thanks to this special relationship with our audience, we are proud to move forward and to propose an innovative retail concept in partnership with Broadleaf Kitchen and Décor Private Limited.”, says Camille Thelu, Senior Vice President & Managing Director of Lagardere Active Enterprises EMEA & India.
15, Feb 2024
CrowdStrikec in India Operations to Continue Protecting Businesses from Modern Cyber Attacks
PUNE, India – 15 February 2024 — CrowdStrike (Nasdaq: CRWD) today announced the opening of its new, state-of-the-art office in Pune, India, significantly strengthening the company’s presence in the region. The new, 52,000-square-foot facility nearly doubles the capacity of previous facilities in Pune, cementing the cybersecurity leader’s commitment to protecting organizations in India and across the region.
Headquartered in the U.S. with global operations, CrowdStrike is one of the fastest-growing and most innovative security companies in the world. CrowdStrike has been investing in India since 2018 when it first opened the CrowdStrike Innovation and Development Center in Pune to serve as its regional hub for talent, innovation and customer engagement. The expanded facility and market presence support the continued growth of the global product, engineering, and business services teams.
“India plays a critical role in the growth and development of our global operations and is a leading reason why we established our Innovation and Development center in the heart of Pune. Our footprint here gives us access to incredible talent, and provides a central location to engage with customers from across the region,” said Michael Sentonas, president at CrowdStrike. “Our development team in India has played a pivotal role in delivering the innovation and powerful platform capabilities our customers require to stop breaches. We’ll continue to invest in key regions like India to make the Falcon platform, the gold standard of protection, available to every customer around the world.”
The expanded office in Pune underscores CrowdStrike’s commitment to investing in global operations and extending its mission of stopping breaches to organizations around the world.
CrowdStrike recently opened a new Asian hub in Singapore and continues to achieve certifications by global governments and industry associations to expand access and accelerate the adoption of the AI-native CrowdStrike Falcon® XDR platform. The powerful combination of its market-defining Falcon platform, elite incident response and services, and renowned cyber threat intelligence team have made CrowdStrike one of the most trusted global brands in cybersecurity.
15, Feb 2024
Motorola disrupts the entry level smartphone market with moto g04 boasting a premium design with 4 stunning colours
Mumbai, 15th February 2024– Motorola, India’s best 5G smartphone brand launched its latest entry level smartphone today, the moto g04.It comes with a premium design with acrylic glass finish (PMMA) and will be available in 4 attractive colours. It also features a 16.66 cm (6.6”) IPS LCD punch-hole display with 90 Hz refresh rate. The moto g04 is also India’s most affordable smartphone with the latest Android™ 14. Furthermore, the moto g04 delivers powerful performance with its built-in 4GB or 8GB RAM which can be extended up to 16GB with RAM boost feature and 64GB or 128GB UFS 2.2 storage with UNISOC T606 chipset, and a massive 5000mAh battery. Additionally, it features IP52 water-repellent design, a rarity in this price range, and a 16MP AI camera with a Quad Pixel camera system for superb pictures, whether in daylight or low light
The moto g04 boasts an exceptional design, beautifully crafted from premium materials. Its streamlined camera housing feels great in hand and the device is extremely thin just 7.99mm and lightweight just 178g making it one of the lightest and slimmest smartphone in the segment. Moreover, the side-mounted fingerprint reader ensures an easy and fast unlock along with high-quality matte finish on the back of the phone making it look as good as it feels. Available in four vibrant colours, namely Concord Black, Sea Green, Satin Blue, and Sunrise Orange, the moto g04 compliments every style. The IP52 water-repellent design also ensures the device stays protected even with light spills and splashes.
Users can enjoy a multidimensional audio-visual experience owing to the punch-hole 16.66 cm (6.6”) 90 Hz display with a High Brightness mode complemented by a powerful Dolby Atmos® speaker. The display offers an immersive experience, eliminating all distractions and disturbances. High Brightness mode automatically adjusts the display outdoors so it’s easier to see, reaching peak brightness levels of up to 537 NITS. Conversely, the Night Light mode tints the screen amber, making the display easier to view in dim or poor lighting conditions. Matching such a remarkable display, Dolby Atmos® adds another dimension of audio, offering greater depth, clarity, and details.
The moto g04 comes with Android 14, the only phone in its segment to do so. With this, users can make their devices more personal, protected, and accessible while getting privacy updates for health, safety, and data. With enhanced PIN security that recommends users set a 6-digit PIN, upon finishing which the device unlocks automatically without any friction. Additionally, the Health Connect feature acts as a central way to connect and sync all the data from various fitness apps in one place, for a more holistic view. Another feature is the flash notifications that alerts the users by turning on the flash and screen light for incoming calls, so they don’t miss a notification.
Ensuring an unmatched performance, the moto g04 comes with built-in 8GB / 4GB RAM which can be expanded up to 16GB with RAM boost feature. Coupled with a a reliable UNISOC T606 chipset, and UFS 2.2 storage that enables faster read-write speeds, the moto g04 makes multitasking seamless. The moto g04 offers two storage options of 64GB and 128GB which can be further expanded to 1TB via a dedicated microSD card and it also features a triple sim card slot.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. T.M. Narasimhan, Managing Director, Mobile Business Group – India, said “We are pleased to announce yet another addition to our g series smartphones – the moto g04. This device is a true embodiment of our commitment to providing users with attractive design, disruptive features at outstanding price points. As India’s most affordable Android 14 smartphone, moto g04 enables users to experience cutting-edge technology without compromising on essential features. With this launch, we continue to make significant strides in our pursuit to democratise technology by empowering individuals to explore, connect and experience like never before.”
The moto g04 comes with a massive 5000mAh battery that offers outstanding backup and supports 15W charging. It also comes with an IP52 rated water repellent design and a 16MP AI-powered camera that captures beautiful photos with the help of automatic AI enhancements. Loaded with smart features like HDR and Portrait mode, to generate professional-looking shots automatically. Moreover, consumers can click better selfies owing to the device’s 5MP front camera with face retouch, for social media worthy clicks every time. Other notable features included in the camera system are Timelapse, Night Vision, Portrait Mode, and Leveller among others.
Availability:
The moto g04 will be available in four beautiful colours: Concord Black, Sea Green, Satin Blue, and Sunrise Orange, featuring acrylic glass (PMMA) finish with a matte texture that makes it scratch-resistant.
moto g04 will be available in two memory & storage variants with built-in 4GB RAM + 64GB storage and 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage; and will go on sale on Flipkart, Motorola.in and leading retail stores starting 22nd February 2024, 12PM onwards.
15, Feb 2024
USA leads Indian electronics hardware exports, followed by UAE and Netherlands – ESC Analysis
New Delhi, 15th February 2024: The Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) has recently released its analytical report for the fiscal year 2022-23, showcasing a remarkable surge in exports of electronics goods and components, which saw an impressive 50.25% increase compared to the previous year, amounting to a substantial US$ 23.58 billion. According to the report, India’s production of electronic hardware in the same period reached an estimated US$ 87 billion, contributing significantly to the global electronics equipment production valued at US$ 2300 billion.
The report was launched during the annual event of ESC India Soft 9th Edition held in January 2024. Furthermore, IndiaSoft 2024 and the concurrent 9th edition of India Electronics Expo, both organized by the ESC, recorded a remarkable business turnover of Rs 2150 million (US$26.21 million), surpassing the previous year’s record of Rs 1710 million (US$20.85 million) in 2023, reflecting an impressive growth of 25.73%.
The report provides insights into the global electronics equipment production landscape, revealing that communication equipment leads the pack with a production value of US$ 575 billion, followed closely by computer systems and peripherals at US$ 445 billion, semiconductors at US$ 430 billion, electronic components at US$ 275 billion, display devices at US$ 175 billion, AV equipment at US$ 165 billion, and other equipment at US$ 105 billion.
Furthermore, the report highlights a significant surge in exports of electronics goods and components from India, registering a remarkable 50.25% growth over the previous fiscal year. In value terms, the export of electronics goods during the fiscal year 2022-23 is estimated to be US$ 23,578 million, compared to US$ 15,692 million in the previous year.
Telecom exports lead the pack, followed by components, instruments, consumer electronics, and computer hardware. Like in the case of software (IT, BPO, ITeS), the US has become the top destination for electronic hardware exports accounting for 26.32% (US$ 6.21 billion) of the export, followed by UAE, 14.45% (US$3.41 billion), the Netherlands 7.45% (US$1.75 billion), the UK 5.14% (US$1.21 billion), Germany 4.33% (US$1.02 billion), Italy 3.99% US$941 million), Austria 3.38% (US$797 million). Countries like China, Czech, France, etc. also figured among the export destinations. “Various schemes and incentives that were introduced from time to time and reviewed to value add to them will help the sector grow at par with the software sector and even surpass it as the years roll by as the global market space of electronic hardware sector is much larger than IT services;” says Mr. Gurmeet Singh, Executive Director, ESC.
“The runaway increase in exports of electronic goods and components is a good augury riding on the back of accelerated export of smartphones (US$10.95 billion) in 2022-23, as against US$3.80 billion in the previous year forming 46.50% of the total electronic hardware exports from the country and is set to gain momentum in the coming years”; says Mr. Sandeep Narula, Chairman, ESC, adding that export of photovoltaic cells at US$1.03 billion (2022-23) also helped in giving traction to the increased electronics hardware exports.
In terms of state-wise exports of electronics goods from India, Tamil Nadu emerges as the leader, followed closely by Uttar Pradesh. The ESC analysis also made a comparison between export contributions of software and hardware in the country. While the software sector contributed US$193 billion in 2022-23 (estimated), the electronic hardware sector’s contribution toward exports was US$23.58 billion. These findings underscore India’s growing prominence in the global electronics market and reaffirm its position as a key player in the sector.
15, Feb 2024
Strong 2023 performance augurs well for Chennai real estate market in 2024
Chennai, 15 February 2024: With continuous infrastructure upgrades and the commitment of the government to reinforce Chennai’s positioning as an economic and investment hub, the real estate market of the city has grown from strength to strength in recent years. The city not only beat market expectations in 2023 but holds promise of an equally strong performance in 2024. The office market of Chennai breached all earlier highs and recorded more than 2x leasing activity in 2023 as compared to the annual average of the last four years. At the same time, other real estate asset classes like industrial and warehousing, housing and data centers also saw strong traction during the year. Moreover, Tamil Nadu state has seen about USD 2,000-3,000 million of overall FDI inflows in each of the last two fiscal years. The momentum of inflows is likely to continue in the next few years and trickle down to the real estate sector, accelerating the growth of various asset classes.
Chennai’s office leasing touches an all-time high in 2023
During 2023, the city recorded the highest-ever office leasing with 10.5 mn sq ft of gross absorption and made it to the top three list for the first time alongside Bengaluru and Delhi NCR. Technology and BFSI players drove the leasing during 2023 accounting for about half of the total share in leasing activity. Interestingly, leasing by flex players saw a 3X annual rise in the city during 2023. Amidst robust demand, vacancy levels dipped a significant 3.7pp YoY and stood at 16.3% at the end of the year.
The demand momentum is expected to continue into 2024 as well. Furthermore, the city has a pipeline of 4-5 mn sq ft of new Grade A office developments at different stages of construction. The majority of the upcoming supply is likely to be seen in the MPR and PTR micro markets of the city. Under the recent floor-wise denotification of SEZs, Chennai is likely to see an additional supply of office space. As of 2023 end, Chennai had about 26.5 mn sq ft of SEZ office space, at a vacancy level of about 19%. We expect incremental leasing from these spaces as well during the next few quarters.
“The real estate market of Chennai has exceeded expectations during 2023 and is poised for sustained growth in the next few years. The office market has recorded an impressive 10.5 mn sq ft of gross absorption during 2023, driven by OMR Zone 1 and MPR micro markets in the city. Global capability centers (GCCs) also viewed Chennai as an attractive location for space take-up led by cost-effective rentals and the presence of quality Grade A stock. The demand momentum, particularly during the second half of the year 2023, will pave the way for an optimistic start to 2024. Amidst healthy demand, office rentals are likely to firm up by about 3-5% in the next few quarters.” says Arpit Mehrotra, Managing Director, Office Services, Colliers India.
Chennai’s industrial and warehousing leasing activity picked pace during 2023
During 2023, with more than 5 mn sq ft of gross absorption, Chennai saw robust industrial and warehousing leasing demand, an 85% YoY rise, edging ahead of Delhi NCR, the usual front runner. The city accounted for about 20% share in the overall leasing across the top five cities. Key micro markets like Oragadam, NH-48, and NH-16 of Chennai saw the bulk of the demand during the year. While 3PL players dominated the leasing activity with about half of the demand, Engineering players accounted for about 38% demand.
“The city is seeing fast-paced growth with infrastructural upgrades such as the upcoming metro and flyovers that will fuel commercial & residential real estate across key locations of the city. Areas around CBD, OMR Zone 1 stretch of Madhya Kailash–Perungudi and MPR stand to benefit the most. The proposed increase in FSI along the Chennai metro and MRTS corridors holds immense potential for unlocking real estate value for developers & investors along the corridors in the city. Interestingly, Chennai will continue to build upon its data center capabilities and attract significant DC investments in the next 3-4 years” says Vimal Nadar, Senior Director & Head of Research, Colliers India.
Chennai saw highest growth in Data Centre capacity during the post-pandemic period
With over 110 MW Chennai accounts for about 14% of the data centre capacity as of 2023, second highest in the country followed by Mumbai. The city witnessed significant investments for DC in the last few years and with a 3X rise, saw the highest growth in DC capacity in the post-pandemic period. Supported by the upcoming infrastructural growth, presence of sea cables and investments, the sector is likely to see a significant rise in DC supply in the next 3-4 years.
The strong rebound in commercial realty is translating into heightened activity in the residential segment as well. On account of favorable demand-supply dynamics, average housing prices in Chennai have seen a modest annual increase of about 3-5% in 2023. Micro markets like North Ambattur and North and West Thiruvallur have witnessed the highest rise in housing prices. The upcoming metro corridors in (Coastal) Chengalpattu and (West) Poonamallee sub-markets are likely to firm up residential demand in these markets. With the increasing demand for larger apartments, sales of 3 and 4 BHKs are likely to gain traction in 2024.
15, Feb 2024
New Nexon continues legacy of Safety – Scores 5-stars in GNCAP rating
Bengaluru, February 15, 2024: Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile manufacturer, announced that the all-new Nexon (ICE), India’s bestselling SUV, has become the latest recipient of the 5-star rating (32.22/34 points) for adult occupant protection and 5-star rating (44.52/49 points) for child occupant protection from Global NCAP, the foremost global car assessment programme. This achievement underscores Tata Motors’ steadfast dedication to safety, as all of its new SUV models have now earned a 5-star rating from Global NCAP.
Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Mohan Savarkar, Chief Product Officer at Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, “Safety is ingrained in our DNA, and we are proud to earn the prestigious 5-star rating from Global NCAP for the new Nexon as per the enhanced 2022 protocol. It was the first car in India to receive 5 star rating from GNCAP in 2018 and it upholds this legacy, showcasing our unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. With this feat, all our new SUVs have now received the GNCAP 5-star rating certifications and have raised the bar for safer SUVs in India. We are dedicated to delivering vehicles that not only surpass expectations but also prioritize the safety of every passenger on the road.”
Nexon stands as a symbol of excellence in the compact SUV segment, having distinguished itself since its debut and earning the admiration of over 6 lakh families. Tata Motors has delighted its customers with the new Nexon, demonstrating a dedication to exceeding customer expectations.
Advanced Safety Features of the new Nexon:
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15, Feb 2024
Survey uncovers misconceptions about Moscow among Indian outbound travellers
The most common myths among Indian tourists about the Russian capital, Moscow were revealed in a recent survey. Intourist, a company with 95 years of background in the inbound tourism market in Russia, conducted a survey among tourists from India who visited Moscow, asking them about their primary expectations for Moscow and the difference from their actual experience. The poll results were used to form a list of popular myths about Moscow, most of which were successfully debunked in the process.
“When a tourist arrives in Moscow, the first thing that comes to a foreigner’s mind is probably the Red Square, all covered in snow (and maybe a layer of red caviar on a giant piece of bread, thanks to the latest Slavic girl trend). Although it is a pretty memorable image, there’s so much more that the Russian capital can give to its visitors”, commented Aleksandr Musikhin, the General Director of Intourist and inbound tourism committee head of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR).
Myth #1: Moscow is cold
Reality: There are four seasons, and the summer is very warm
There are four distinct seasons to fit any taste beginning April. Moscow spring is probably the loveliest of them all with its fresh air, blossoming trees and cafeteria terraces opening all over the city. Summer in the city is usually hot, with a great choice of refreshing activities: you can visit an open pool like Chaika or Luzhniki, explore any of the renovated parks with a glass of lemonade, or even spend a day at the beach of Serebryany Bor. Sure, winters in Moscow are cold, but thanks to well-adjusted heating systems both in the buildings and public transport, freezing isn’t really an option.
Myth #2: Moscow is too Soviet
Reality: Moscow’s architecture is a beautiful eclectic mixture of nearly a thousand years of history
If you take some time to look around the city, a couple of beautiful landmarks from different times will appear just around the corner. Besides Soviet architecture, there are buildings dated with XII-XIX centuries along the ‘bas-reliefs’ from the art nouveau period and shining skyscrapers of the Moscow-City cluster — all for your aesthetic pleasure.
Myth #3: Moscow is one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Reality: There are options for a trip with any budget
According to the EIU rating of 2021, Moscow didn’t even make the top 100 of the annual rich cities list. There are lots of accommodation options, eateries and shopping establishments to fit your desires and financial possibilities: from Stoleshnikov Lane with its boutiques to vast malls such as Europolis or Atrium, where the clothing stores are open side by side with fast-food restaurants, beauty salons, cinemas, playgrounds etc.
Myth #4: There is no decent food in Moscow, except for borscht and pelmeni.
Reality: Moscow is full of the high-quality restaurants with Russian and world cuisines
Setting aside the fact that there’s more to the traditional Russian cuisine than you would first expect, Moscow can offer a hungry tourist a wide range of food options: there are halal and kosher, vegetarian and vegan, European and Asian restaurants all over the city. A homesick Indian tourist can also easily find an authentic eating place serving a ‘Thali’ or a ‘Dosa’ or other Indian vegetarian options.
Myth #5: People in Moscow are mean and unfriendly.
Reality: Moscovites a warm-hearted and helpful
There is a strong stereotype that pictures Russians as people who never smile. Thankfully, any public place in Moscow will prove it wrong in mere seconds. Big city people may not be keen on showing emotions to strangers, yet it usually takes a short dialogue for a change of heart, and most of the people passing by will gladly show you the directions or give a helpful tip if asked.
Myth #6: Moscow is unsafe.
Reality: Crime rate in Moscow is lower than in many European tourist cities.
Moscow is an extremely hi-tech city. Last year, Moscow became the leader among BRICS cities in terms of technological and spatial development. Moscow’s high technological progress also means a high level of development of security systems. Moscow has a “smart city” system – outdoor CCTV cameras and a face recognition system on the streets and in the subway. According to some estimates, the crime rate in Moscow is lower than in many European tourist cities. Being in Moscow you don’t have to worry about your safety.
Myth #7: Nobody speaks English in Moscow.
Reality: Young generation of Moscovites speaks English fluently
Travelling nowadays is a popular hobby among millennials and Gen Z, so the majority of young Moscow residents speak fluent English. Foreign languages are taught in schools and universities, with the addition of online courses and countless apps for personal studies that help to maintain speaking skills — so be sure that you will find help when needed. And if you are not much of a people person, all navigation in Moscow public transport is dubbed in English, so you won’t even have to ask for help since the tourist infrastructure is well-developed.
15, Feb 2024
Slow fashion is the way forward: Namrata Joshipura, New York, Fashion Designer of international reputation
Hyderabad, February 15, 2024: Hyderabad’s FLO (FICCI Ladies Organisation) Chapter was invited by FLO National to organise a program in Delhi and its Chair Ritu Shah was invited to be a Day Chair for a session on the Business of the Fashion Industry. The guest speaker of the session was Namrata Joshipura, one of the most celebrated designers of the country, a visionary Fashion Designer whose designs transcend geographical boundaries. Her creations celebrate global aesthetics.
The Indian fashion industry has been gaining global recognition for its creativity, diversity and sustainability, said Sudha Shivkumar, FLO National President. The Indian Fashion industry according to many surveys is expected to reach 115 to 125 billion US dollars by the year 2025 and is expected to record a CAGR growth of 11 to 12%.
With the vast array of products and services such as design, production, marketing, retail, etc the fashion industry is a huge fertile market for women entrepreneurs to explore, Sudha said.
This is a novel initiative where FLO chapters are invited to New Delhi and organise a program, which will provide an opportunity for better networking, Sudha shared.
Women empowerment, diversity, and inclusivity are the buzzwords now all over the world. But FLO has been talking about them for the past 40! years, said Ms Sudha.
I had the best of both worlds: New York, where I moved after marriage and New Delhi, the country where I was born. If Delhi has given textiles, colours and what have you, the New York sophistication. I have blended both worlds which still stay in me and are part of my DNA.
Replying to how technology and e-commerce are shaping up the future of the fashion industry, Namrata said both these have already defined the way the industry works. We leveraged it. It did magic, it took as far flying places without much effort. We delivered a product in Kunnur in India and the same week in Saudi Arabia. That is the reach of modern technology.
E-commerce has taken a different turn and has become a mainstay especially during the covid it stayed on.
Replying to Ritu Shah’s question on sustainability, slow and fast fashion, Namrata said that sustainability and fast fashion are not friends and they can never be friends. Slow fashion comes at a cost, the people need to understand it, she said. Slow fashion is the way forward.
While fast fashion emphasizes quick and affordable trends, it often comes at the cost of environmental degradation.
Replying to future industry Namrata said it is a crowded space. There is no entry barrier. You need to have your distinguishing factor to survive.
Sharing details on her return to the city today Ritu Shah said it is an honour bestowed on Hyderabad Chapter.
She said Namrata’s story is not just about fashion; it’s a narrative of empowerment, perseverance, and success.
FICCI FLO embodies the collective power of women’s entrepreneurship; FLO’s mission is to promote economic empowerment and equal opportunities for women. We strive to encourage, motivate, and assist women to showcase their talents, skills, and experiences across various industries and sectors, Ritu Shah said
