Category Archives: Business

Andhra Pradesh spearheads the skills revolution with the ‘Leading towards Next Age Programmes’ initiatives

Hyderabad, 1 December 2023: The Andhra Pradesh Government, through Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC), is planning a one-of-a-kind initiative – ‘Leading towards Next Age Programmes.’ This project has the potential to revolutionise the state’s talent development environment, addressing the perennial problem of skills shortages in the Indian labour market. As part of this visionary program, the Government aims to bridge the gap between industry demands and workforce skills, positioning Andhra Pradesh as a leader in the rapidly evolving landscape of skills development and employment.

The event aims to highlight the accomplishments of existing skills development programmes as well as the changing strategies that drive their success. It will emphasise the critical importance of higher education in broadening opportunities, highlighting the role of entrepreneurship in supplementing job creation, and emphasising the importance of soft skills, sector-specific hard skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset as essential building blocks for long-term employment.

Shri S Suresh Kumar I.A.S., Principal Secretary, Dept. of Skills Development & Training stated, “The ‘Leading Towards Next Age Programmes’ concept epitomises our commitment to transforming aspirations into accomplishments.” We construct not only careers but also a resilient and affluent future through skills development. This project aspires to shape destiny, link opportunities with goals, and propel our children into a world of limitless possibilities where their abilities become the currency of a prosperous future.”

Andhra Pradesh has strategically integrated its skilling approach to create better placement opportunities for unemployed people by acquiring job-specific skills. In 2019, the Government launched a new integrated Skill Development Ecosystem, integrating all skills and vocational education wings under the Department of Skills Development & Training (SD&T). The SD&T coordinates numerous wings, giving long-term and short-term vocational and technical training to a varied pool of users. The department has taught 14,42,134 individuals and placed 3,57,334 people in 98 career roles across 20 different industries.

“Investing in skills development is a strategic allocation of resources that transcends the immediate need for employment,” said Shri Buganna Rajendranath, Hon’ Finance Minister of Andhra Pradesh. “It is an investment in the fundamental fabric of our state’s future.” The Leading towards Next Age Programme is an important step towards a future of sustainable economic development in which our youth not only find jobs but also create opportunities, promoting a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and advancement.”

Against the backdrop of India’s challenge to skill its large labour population, the AP Skills Development Ecosystem strives to be a catalyst for revolutionary change. The introduction of the “Leading Towards Next Age Programmes” concept signifies a move towards not just training persons but also assisting them in finding meaningful and long-term employment prospects.

Nifty Overcomes Morning Sell-Off, Eyes New Highs Despite Potential Impact from Evening Exit Polls.

Continuing yesterday’s momentum, the market opened in green today but witnessed institutional selling in the morning. However, Nifty finding support near 20000 erased all the losses to close the day in the green. On the monthly timeframe, Nifty has formed a strong Bullish candle. VIX, the fear gauge, for the most part of the day, was in green but ended in red. All these indicate that the bulls are is no mood to relent and Nifty is perfectly set up to touch new highs. However, the exit polls are due in the evening, and their outcome may impact the market.

Brands suggest practical solutions to tackle Pollution

1. Nurture.farm: Established in December 2019, nurture. farm brings together the best agriculture solutions, including remote sensing, farm mechanisms, online marketplaces, traceability, and market linkage. It also encourages farmers to adopt sustainable practices to mitigate potential risks and become resilient.
Harshal Sonawane, Head of Sustainability, nurture.farm, said “Nurture.farm champions a greener Delhi with tangible solutions to combat pollution. Strategic steps, such as vertically covering construction sites, protecting raw materials with water spray and windbreakers, and responsible waste storage, can significantly enhance air quality by 50%, as affirmed by our recent report. Tackling the pervasive issue of fly ash emissions from concrete batching, Nurture.farm advocates for water spray, windbreakers, and telescopic chutes at batching locations. By prioritizing these measures, we strive for a cleaner, healthier capital, fostering sustainable practices that safeguard both the environment and the well-being of Delhi’s residents.”

2. Zoomcar – Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Bengaluru, India, Zoomcar is the leading marketplace for peer2peer car sharing across India, Indonesia and Egypt, with over 21,000 cars registered through its platform. The Zoomcar community connects vehicle owners with guests, who choose from a selection of cars for use at affordable prices, promoting sustainable, smart transportation solutions in growing markets. In the quest for sustainability, the reduction in individual car ownership plays a pivotal role. Car-sharing initiatives significantly reduce the number of vehicles on roads, curbing emissions and diminishing carbon footprints. By promoting a shared usage model, these
platforms actively contribute to environmental conservation, aligning personal mobility with global efforts to combat climate change.

 3. Creduce: It is India’s leading services provider in the field of climate change and carbon asset management. Established in 2012 by Shailendra Singh Rao, Creduce is an Ahmedabad- based, India’s leading domain of services focused on various Renewable Energy, Environment, and Climate Change Mitigation advisory. Creduce provides services to enable people and businesses to live a ‘carbon conscious’ life, a concept that is aggressively defining the landscape of how we live and utilize the earth and its resources. Shailendra Singh Rao, Founder, Creduce, said stubble burning simply causes air pollution as it is the practice of burning crop residue after harvest. “The government can ban stubble burning altogether, with strict penalties for violators. This would be the most effective way to reduce air pollution from stubble burning,” he said.

MirchiKhushirPujo Awards Best Puja Pandal Amid Glamour And Glitz

Kolkata, Dec 1, 2023: 98 Pujas, 3 Cities, 1 Unforgettable ExperienceEvery Year, almost as a rule, Durga Puja inspires us to essay something of the never-seen-before kind. This year’s Puja festivities propelled Mirchi to embark on a mission of the 98 kind! From celebrity interviews to food, from Puja passes to being live in the city’s ears 24/7, Mirchi aimed to touch every base this Puja.

It began under the gigantically magnificent umbrella of Mirchi-te Matripokkho with 98 as its watchword. The all-encompassing Puja experience was narrated by 98 celebrities. This was augmented by tie-ups with 98 Pujas across 3 cities: Kolkata, Asansol and Siliguri, and 98 facets of engagements with the audience. Mirchi-te Matripokkho had a something for everyone. The aficionados of history and heritage found what they wanted in Mirchi’s coverage of historical family-Pujas of Kolkata, and the Puja special series Thakurdalan that explained the fascinating history behind the Puja customs. Those with an affinity for Para Pujas got a wealth of content in our coverage of several public Pujas of the city. And for people in love with pandal hopping, Mirchi produced its unique Puja kit replete with a detailed map and 98 passes to top-draw Pujas.

The fantastic festivities received the fillip of dance and music with the MirchiKhushir Puja song and music video. Such was its charm and vibe that even the celebs came forward and exhibited their superlative dance moves. It was released on YouTube to thunderous applause. MirchiKhushir Puja Finale provided a fitting finale to this magnificent array of activities where the winners from the on-ground leg of the event came together to share their happiness on a larger scale. The happy faces emboldened Mirchi to make a promise: to come back next year with a bigger splash.

URBAN ventures into Smart charging & home automation category with URBAN Core Smart WiFi Power Hub Extension Power Stations

● App Enabled & AI Voice Assistant integrated, allowing users to effortlessly control their devices With Voice
● Can automate 7 appliances & gadgets at one time, Ideal for controlling electronics at homes, offices and small businesses

New Delhi, 1 December, 2023: URBAN, the home-grown technology brand, with a vision of simplifying life and enhancing everyday experiences through technology, is now venturing into smart charging and home automation category with the introduction of URBAN Core Smart WiFi Powerhub Extension power stations.

 The URBAN Core Smart WiFi comes with a dedicated app for remote control and AI Voice Assistant. This Smart WiFi extension power station is loaded with smart features and benefits that promise to make life more convenient, energy-efficient, and secure for modern homes. URBAN Core Smart WiFi Powerhub lets users control and monitor their appliances effortlessly through the smart App. It is compatible with all the light home appliances and gadgets and is built to provide a real-time energy management & monitoring system that helps in reducing energy consumption. Priced at an attractive launch offer of INR 2,499, URBAN Core Smart WiFi Powerhub comes with a massive 4000 Watt rated output and can automate 7 appliances through a 6-amp power sockets, Three Fast Charging USB A Outputs and one super-fast Type C charging output and each output can be managed independently, making it very convenient to use.

 Speaking about the launch, Aashish Kumbhat, Co-Founder of URBAN, expressed, ” At URBAN, we’ve always believed technology should simplify and enhance lives. URBAN Core Smart WiFi Powerhub is a perfect amalgamation of technology and utility. This device can connect to WiFi and remotely control connected devices through an App from any part of the world. It is going to change the way people interact and charge their devices. This device represents our vision to expand and diversify the smart home product categories within the existing URBAN product portfolio. We are committed to delivering innovative solutions that enhance the quality of everyday life.”

 Specifications and Features:

 Seamless Smart Connectivity: URBAN Core Smart WiFi Powerhub seamlessly connects to your home’s Wi-Fi
network, offering you the ability to control and monitor your appliances remotely through an intuitive mobile app.
This integration brings your home into the realm of smart living, making your daily routines more efficient and manageable.

 Unparalleled Power Output: With a maximum power output of 4000 Watts and 6 amps, this extension plug can
effortlessly handle high-energy-consuming devices, providing a reliable power source for your daily needs.
Optimized Energy Consumption: With a focus on energy conservation, this WiFi Smart Plug empowers users to make informed decisions about their energy consumption, leading to cost savings and reduced environmental impact.

 Extended Reach with a 2-Meter Power Cord: The Core Smart Power Hub features a lengthy two-meter power cord, ensuring flexibility in positioning and making it easy to reach your appliances.

 Versatile Compatibility: This smart extension plug is designed to be compatible with a wide range of appliances,
including refrigerators, televisions, Coffee Machines, Hair Dryers, Outdoor & Indoor lights, Fans, laptops, and various other electronic gadgets. This adaptability allows you to conveniently control and optimize the usage of these
devices.

 Swift Charging Capabilities: Equipped with a PD Type C Output and two fast-charging USB outputs, the extension plug ensures that your gadgets and devices are always ready for action, keeping you connected and productive.

Smart Timer Technology: The Core Smart Power Hub incorporates innovative Smart Timer technology, enabling
appliances like refrigerators to operate at the most energy-efficient times, thereby enhancing their performance and
efficiency.

 Voice Assistant Integration: The extension plug can seamlessly integrate with popular voice assistants, giving you the ability to control your devices with simple voice commands, providing a hands-free and effortless experience.
Comprehensive Monitoring: Through the dedicated mobile app, you can closely monitor your energy consumption,
set timers, schedules, and receive real-time notifications, placing you in complete control of your devices and energy
usage.

 Safety First: The Core Smart Power Hub includes built-in smart circuit protection, ensuring the safety of your
appliances and providing peace of mind. It also comes with a child lock to prevent children from electrical shocks.
Secure Data Storage: Data security is a top priority for URBAN. The extension plug features encrypted data storage to safeguard your information and ensure your privacy remains protected.

 Price and Availability
The URBAN Core Smart WiFi Powerhub is available at an exclusive launch price of only INR 2,499 across all leading
retail outlets, brand website (gourban.in) and leading ecommerce portals.

IEEE EPS IESA 2023 Workshop Ignites Innovation and Collaboration in the Electronics and Semiconductor Industry

Bengaluru, 1 December 2023- The much-anticipated IEEE EPS IESA workshop has successfully commenced, marking a significant milestone in the realms of electronics, semiconductors, and emerging technologies. Hosted by the IEEE Electronics Packaging Society (EPS) and the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), this workshop brings together visionaries, experts, and industry leaders from around the globe.

 Happening alongside the Bengaluru Tech Summit, The workshop kicked off with thought-provoking keynote addresses from distinguished personalities, setting the tone for the days ahead. Eminent speakers shared their insights on topics ranging from cutting-edge semiconductor technologies to the integration of artificial intelligence in electronics manufacturing. These keynote sessions provided attendees with a panoramic view of the industry’s current state and its trajectory into the future.

 One of the workshop’s highlights was the Innovation Showcase, where pioneering companies and startups unveiled their latest technologies and solutions. From breakthroughs in chip design to revolutionary packaging techniques, the Innovation Showcase provided a glimpse into the industry’s next frontier. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with innovators, fostering a collaborative environment for the exchange of ideas and potential partnerships.

 The IEEE EPS IESA Workshop 2023 features an array of technical sessions and workshops delving into specific aspects of electronics packaging, semiconductor manufacturing, and emerging technologies. Industry experts led these sessions, offering deep dives into topics such as 5G integration, advanced packaging materials, and the impact of quantum computing on semiconductor design. The interactive nature of these sessions facilitated meaningful discussions and knowledge sharing among participants.

 The workshop also prioritizes networking opportunities, recognizing the immense value of collaboration in driving the industry forward. Attendees also get the chance to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential collaborators through structured networking events, fostering relationships that could pave the way for future innovations and partnerships.

Max Life’s e-commerce channel achieves 55% YoY + growth in H1 FY24

New Delhi, December 1, 2023: Max Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (“Max Life”/ “Company”) has announced that the e-commerce channel has achieved a 55% YoY growth in total online sales and over 100% YoY growth in APE for H1 FY24. Over 30% of policies were sourced through the online channel in the first half of the fiscal year. Backed by a strong surge in direct-to-customer online sales, Max Life has strengthened its position as one of the industry leaders in overall online sales and in the online protection market.

 In the first half of FY24, Max Life achieved a substantial market share within the online domain, including continued leadership in the online protection segment. The strong presence is driven by the company’s strategic focus on product innovation customized for online customers, investments in digital capabilities, and user experience. Some of its highest-selling offerings include the NIFTY Smallcap Quality Index Fund, the Smart Fixed-Return Digital Plan (guaranteed savings), the Smart Secure Plus Plan, and the Online Savings Plan (ULIP).

 V. Viswanand, Deputy Managing Director, Max Life said, “Max Life’s remarkable e-commerce growth in H1 FY24 reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of digitally-savvy customers. Our aim is to establish our footprint across multiple digital touchpoints and provide an omni-channel experience to our customers. Our digital strategy is rooted in enhancing accessibility and availability of insurance products, anchored to the vision of ‘Insurance for All’.

 Max Life attributes its e-commerce growth to digital initiatives aimed at ensuring frictionless onboarding and superior customer service. Offering personalized experiences by creating a mobile-first purchase and unique WhatsApp-led chase journey, Max Life has enabled sharper prospecting and built a robust digital marketing muscle.

Kyndryl to Accelerate Mainframe Application Modernization for Customers with AWS

India, December 1, 2023 – Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, today announced an expansion of its relationship with Amazon Web Services (AWS) as a Premier Tier Services Partner to help customers simplify and accelerate their mainframe modernization initiatives. The company also unveiled new capabilities designed to seamlessly integrate mainframe applications and data with AWS technologies, and/or move mainframe workloads to AWS.

 Kyndryl now supports the AWS Mainframe Modernization service, a unique platform that allows customers to migrate and modernize their on-premises mainframe applications to a cloud-native fully managed runtime environment on AWS. Kyndryl will bring its industry-leading mainframe expertise, skills, and capabilities to help customers manage their complex transformation initiatives more efficiently and effectively.

 As part of their expanded relationship with AWS, Kyndryl launched a suite of new, tailored capabilities to automate the provisioning and management of AWS mainframe modernization environments and help customers optimize deployments:

•  Kyndryl Cloud Native Services (KCNS) for mainframe modernization will enable businesses to streamline lifecycle management across their platforms and ensure consistent provisioning, backup, compliance, and monitoring for mainframe applications and infrastructure components. In addition, Kyndryl will help automate operations, track AWS runtime performance, and ensure system health. This can drive continuous modernization as well as faster innovation and time to value for customers.
•  Application re-platforming/refactoring via integrated DevSecOps provides an application platform
  engineering and developer agility on both the mainframe and AWS, enhancing the developer experience and accelerating mainframe modernization.
•  Application refactoring for migration from the mainframe to AWS is supported by Kyndryl migration experts and helps customers optimize mainframe applications as microservices in a cloud-native environment.
•   Near real-time data replication between the mainframe and AWS using Kyndryl Consult to tune and manage third-party products to help increase analytical insights from integrated data sources that customers use to address business challenges.

 Additionally, the integration of AWS environments with the AI-powered Kyndryl Bridge open integration platform provides real-time visibility and actionable insights into operational data, helping customers to better plan, leverage, and gain insights from their mainframe applications and data in the cloud to support better business outcomes.

 With the new Kyndryl capabilities and AWS Mainframe Modernization service, an end-to-end mainframe transformation factory can be created to integrate and migrate mainframe applications and data to AWS, which can provide seamless hybrid estate management for joint customers.

 “AWS and Kyndryl’s creativity and innovation to help implement mainframe modernization have assisted the State of Arizona Department of Economic Security in our modernization journey,” said Mark Darmer, CIO of State of Arizona DES. “They continue to provide the type of innovation that is needed in the industry.”

 “I applaud Kyndryl’s continued work with AWS. It represents a significant step forward in enabling organizations to optimize their workloads across cloud and mainframe environments,” said Steven Dickens, VP and Practice Leader at the Futurum Group. “With Kyndryl’s expertise and AWS’ innovative technologies, businesses can achieve greater agility, cost-efficiency and innovation, ultimately driving their digital transformation efforts to new heights.”

 “We are pleased to expand our relationship with AWS to support customers with modernizing their mainframe workloads, helping them drive the most value by integrating mainframe applications and data with AWS, or moving them to AWS,” said Petra Goude, Kyndryl Global Practice Leader for Core Enterprise & zCloud. “Our work with AWS enables businesses to increase access to valuable mainframe data and leverage new capabilities that will show the benefits of cloud automation and enhanced insights from their IT environments.”

 “AWS Mainframe Modernization service offers customers a comprehensive approach to modernize mainframe applications,” said Bill Platt, General Manager for Migration Services at AWS. “Working with Kyndryl, we’re providing the tools and expertise to help joint customers assess existing mainframe workloads, identify candidates for modernization, and create migration plans to help them identify opportunities to accelerate business value.”

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India inaugurates BigWing in Nagercoil (Tamil Nadu)

•  Delights motoring enthusiasts with an exclusive range of premium motorcycles (300cc – 500cc)
•   Exclusive one-stop sales and service center for Honda big bikes 

  Nagercoil, 1 December 2023: Enhancing a new era of differentiated immersive experience to premium motorcycle customers across the country, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) today inaugurated an all-new premium motorcycle sales & service outlet – Honda BigWing in Nagercoil (Tamil Nadu).

 Located at Building No. 314C/1 & 314C/2 (Survey No. G-1/132/1), K.P Road, Nagercoil, Kanniyakumari – 629003, Tamil Nadu, the facility aims to elevate the #GoRidin spirit amongst new as well as prospective customers.

 Expanding their last-mile presence to cater to aspirational customers, the differentiated BigWing can be now experienced at more than 130 operational touchpoints across India.

 Premium Experience
Adorned with the black & white monochromatic theme, BigWing showcases the displayed vehicles in their full glory. The highly trained and knowledgeable professionals at BigWing assist customers in resolving their product or accessories-related queries. Easing the journey from search to purchase, the dedicated website (www.HondaBigWing.in) is available for detailed information. The online booking option on the website ensures a quick, seamless, and transparent booking experience for customers at their fingertips. Capturing real-time customer feedback, Honda BigWing is also actively available across all social media platforms.

 Ensuring safety and convenience of customers, Honda BigWing offers Immersive Digital Experience. The virtual platform – https://virtualshowroom.hondabigwing.in allows customers to experience the entire fun motorcycle line-up, riding gears and accessories in granular detail while sitting in the comforts of their home.

 Diverse Product Portfolio
Honda’s premium motorcycle retail format is led by the BigWing Topline – for entire premium motorcycle range (300cc – 1800cc) in top metros and BigWing – exclusively for the mid-size motorcycle segment (300cc – 500cc) in other demand centers. Its diverse range of motorcycles comprises of the all-new CB350, H’ness CB350, and CB350RS which can be further customized to suit the ever-changing needs of customers through six unique customization kits. Additionally, the product line-up includes CB300F, CB300R, CB500X, CB650R, CBR650R, XL750 Transalp, CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, Africa Twin and Gold Wing Tour.

 Giving joy to customers with the All-New retro classic ‘CB350’
HMSI brings in the festival cheer with the introduction of the All-New CB350. Engineered to offer a timeless classic design with a superior blend of technology and refined performance, the Honda CB350 has been launched at a special price of Rs. 1,99,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Crafted with an amalgamation of artistry and power, this retro motorcycle blends Honda’s iconic styling ethos with a timeless classic design.

 HMSI is offering the CB350 in five attractive colours with a choice of metallic and matte shades. They are Precious Red Metallic, Pearl Igneous Black, Matte Crust Metallic, Matte Marshal Green Metallic and Matte Dune Brown. At the heart of CB350 lies a powerful 348.36cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder BSVI OBD2-B compliant PGM-FI engine that churns out 15.5 kW power & 29.4 Nm torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox.

 Reach us at:
Honda BigWing
Nagercoil (Tamil Nadu)

Showroom & workshop – Building No. 314C/1 & 314C/2 (Survey No. G-1/132/1), K.P Road, Nagercoil, Kanniyakumari – 629003, Tamil Nadu