Category Archives: News

MIT-WPU Revolutionizes Mobility with Patent-Backed 5G Vehicle Tracking System

December 11, Mumbai: With the ever-growing demand for logistics, commercial operations, and traffic management, there is an increasing need for efficient vehicle monitoring systems to ensure smoother operations that are fast, safe, and reliable. In a significant achievement in this direction, a team of professors and students at MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), Pune, has developed an advanced vehicle data tracking system, backed by 5G and the latest technologies, for real-time vehicle monitoring, safety, and enhanced operational efficiency.

The team, comprising Ashutosh Solanke, Malhar Jojare, Hrushikesh Kalamkar, and mentor Prof. Shweta Kukade, has secured a patent for the novel integration of 5G technology, real-time tracking, and enhanced safety features into vehicle data monitoring systems. This system will now enable fleet operators, automotive manufacturers, insurance companies, logistics firms, smart city planners, and others to benefit from its real-time tracking, geo-fencing, and emergency alert capabilities.

The MIT-WPU team is now focusing on commercializing the system through partnerships with automotive manufacturers, fleet management companies, and logistics firms. The goal is to integrate the system into both commercial and public sector vehicle fleets, enhancing their operational efficiency and safety. Furthermore, the team plans to explore consumer applications by developing a version for individual vehicle owners, which would offer enhanced security and tracking capabilities.

Speaking about the unique features and importance of the system, Prof. Shweta Kukade, Assistant Professor at MIT World Peace University shared, “Traditional systems often lack the high-speed connectivity and precise location tracking necessary for modern applications. Our system leverages 5G technology and enhanced GPS/GLONASS accuracy, providing faster, more reliable tracking, making it invaluable for sectors like fleet management, logistics, insurance, and public transportation. We are also considering scaling the system for use in smart cities, potentially integrating it with IoT infrastructure for real-time urban mobility management, ensuring continuous product innovation and development.”

The system overcomes the limitations of existing vehicle tracking systems that operate on 2G or 3G networks, which have limited data transfer speeds and reduced accuracy in pinpointing a vehicle’s location. The integration of 5G addresses issues such as delayed tracking data, unreliable connectivity in rural areas, and weaker precision. This is a game-changer, enabling real-time data transfer and reliable tracking, particularly in rural, remote, or challenging environments, with accurate and fast location tracking through technologies like GPS and GLONASS.

Additionally, the system includes geo-fencing, allowing for virtual boundaries to be set and providing alerts if vehicles leave designated areas. The emergency button feature enables immediate alerts in critical situations. The automatic switch to open Wi-Fi networks ensures that the system maintains connectivity even when 5G isn’t available. These improvements offer greater speed, precision, and safety compared to legacy systems that rely on 2G/3G networks with only GPS tracking.

The system is designed to automatically connect to authorized, open Wi-Fi networks, typically in public spaces, without breaching any legal or network boundaries. It does not access private or password-protected networks without permission. This feature ensures continuous connectivity, especially when vehicles enter areas where 5G signals may be weak or unavailable, all while respecting the integrity of secured networks.

With its cutting-edge technology and versatile applications, the MIT-WPU team’s vehicle data tracking system has the potential to bring a significant change in fleet management, logistics, and urban mobility. As they move towards commercialization, the team is confident that this innovation will set new standards for safety, efficiency, and real-time monitoring in the transportation sector.

Manappuram Foundation Recognized with Eco-Friendly Skill Development Award

Valappad/ Thrissur: Manappuram Foundation, the CSR wing of Manappuram Finance Ltd. has received the National Awards on Eco-Friendly Skill Development for its exemplary efforts in sustainable skill development initiatives. The award was presented at a grand ceremony held in Bengaluru and was received by Mr. George D. Das, CEO of Manappuram Foundation, and Mr. K.M. Asharaf, Senior PRO of Manappuram Finance. This recognition highlights the foundation’s skill development programs aimed to support the education of economically underprivileged children. As part of the commitment to social responsibility, the Manappuram Foundation spends over ₹6 crore annually in the education sector.

Expressing his contentment on receiving the award, Manappuram Foundation Managing Trustee, Mr. V.P. Nandakumar said, it is great honour to receive this award for Manappuram Foundation”. “It is crucial to implement learning methods that encourage students to explore their multifaceted skills. Equipping our children with world-class knowledge in modern technologies is a necessity. This award serves as an inspiration to strengthen our ongoing skill development projects in the education sector,” he added.

The foundation’s continued focus on empowering education through innovative and inclusive initiatives that align with our vision to create healthy, educated and happy communities

Life-Saving Initiative: Jupiter Foundation’s ‘My Organ Project’ Aims to Boost Organ Donation Awareness

Thane, December 11, 2024 – Jupiter Foundation has announced the launch of its dedicated initiative, ‘My Organ Project,’ aimed at raising awareness about organ donation and encouraging individuals to pledge their organs to save lives. With India facing a significant gap between the demand for donated organs and their availability, this initiative seeks to educate the public, dispel myths, and foster a culture of organ pledging.

 In collaboration with key organizations like the Zonal Transplant Coordination Committee (ZTCC) and ROTTO-SOTTO (Regional cum State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation, West & Maharashtra), ‘My Organ Project’ is committed to creating widespread awareness about the critical need for organ and tissue donation. The initiative highlights the importance of brain death awareness and promotes ethical and transparent donation practices.

 “Organ donation is one of the most profound gifts one human being can offer another,” said Dr. Ajay P. Thakker, Chairman and Managing Director of Jupiter Hospitals. “Through ‘My Organ Project,’ we aim to educate individuals and families about the immense life-saving potential of organ pledging. A single pledge can give hope and a second chance to those waiting for transplants.”

 Corporate and Community Engagement
As part of its mission, Jupiter Foundation is partnering with corporates, housing societies, and educational institutions to expand the reach of ‘My Organ Project.’ Through targeted outreach programs, awareness sessions, and organ pledging drives, these collaborations aim to bring communities, workplaces, and students together to support the cause. By involving schools and colleges, the initiative seeks to inspire younger generations to embrace the spirit of giving.

 Addressing Misconceptions and Promoting Dialogue
The initiative emphasizes the need to address common misconceptions and fears surrounding organ donation, focusing on the facts about brain death and the organ donation process. Educational campaigns, workshops, and public awareness drives will reach individuals from all walks of life, empowering them to make informed decisions.

 Additionally, interfaith discussions will be organized to foster conversations around religious and cultural perspectives on organ donation. By engaging faith leaders and communities, ‘My Organ Project’ aims to create a unified platform to address concerns and encourage collective support for the cause.

 A Call to Action
‘My Organ Project’ is urging individuals to take a simple yet impactful step by pledging their organs. Through this collective effort, Jupiter Foundation and its partners hope to bridge the gap between organ demand and supply, ensuring more lives can be saved.

IndiaRF Commits INR 1,000 Crores Investment in Anthea Aromatics Private Limited

Mumbai, India | December 10th 2024: India Resurgence Fund (“IndiaRF”), a leading India-focused investment platform promoted by Piramal Group and Bain Capital, today announced an investment of up to INR 1,000 crores in Anthea Aromatics Private Limited (“Anthea”). Following the transaction, IndiaRF has become the controlling shareholder of Anthea.

IndiaRF currently manages close to US$ 850 million in assets from its maiden Fund 1, which is fully allocated across twelve investments spanning nine sectors. These investments focus on key India-centric themes such as domestic consumption, export-driven strategies, and core manufacturing. The investment in Anthea is IndiaRF’s first investment from its second fund, which is currently being raised, and its second investment in the specialty chemicals sector.

Founded by Dr. Vincent Paul in 1992, Anthea has grown into a leading aroma specialty chemicals group in India. The company operates five manufacturing facilities across Maharashtra and Karnataka, with a combined capacity of 10,590 tons per annum. Anthea has a strong R&D setup and a successful track record of development and production across a broad range of specialty chemicals, catering to growing end-use applications across flavors and fragrances, home and personal care, pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. Each of the products are critical input in end-use applications without easily available substitutes.

The global aroma specialty chemicals market size is valued at over US$ 5.5 billion and is growing at rate of ~5-6% annually. Fragrance application account for the largest share of over 70% of the end use of aroma chemicals. The value chain in this sector is characterized by strong, enduring customer relationships driven by the high-quality and consistency of the product, the complexity of the manufacturing process, and the stringent supply chain control exercised by end customers.

Anthea is a largely export-driven company, generating over 80% of its revenues from international markets. It holds a global market and capacity share of 12-15% and is ranked amongst the top five players worldwide in its key product categories, reinforcing its strong position within the global aroma specialty chemicals value chain.

Commenting on the transaction, Shantanu Nalavadi, Managing Director of IndiaRF, said, “Indian specialty chemicals sector is known for its reliability, quality, and cost competitiveness, and presents a strong export opportunity. Anthea’s market presence, proprietary development capabilities and manufacturing processes make it well-positioned to benefit from the opportunities that will present themselves. The business needs capital infusion and leadership augmentation for its next phase of growth. We are committed to investing in the growth of Anthea through capacity addition, de-bottlenecking existing capacities, and enhanced R&D to broaden its product offerings.”

Paul Menacherry, Executive Director, Anthea Group added “Anthea is one of Indian’s oldest aroma chemical companies with a strong legacy of developing high-value specialty chemicals for the global flavors and fragrance industry. We see significant export-led growth potential which IndiaRF’s expertise in business transformation will help unlock. We look forward to the journey under IndiaRF’s stewardship and are confident in scaling the business to new heights.”

New Block Resource Centre in Bankura Inaugurated by Sightsavers India and Alcon India to Support Children with Visual Impairment

Bankura, West Bengal, 10th December 2024 –Alcon, the global leader in eye care, in association with Sightsavers India, has helped visually impaired children in the Bankura district of West Bengal. This association between Sightsavers and Alcon India is part of the ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities..

As part of the Inclusive Education Programme of Sightsavers India, the Block Resource Centre (BRC), a government space where children with special needs come to study, was renovated. The BRC is accessible to maximise participation, and Bankura was selected as it has the highest population of 543 children with visual impairment, making it a crucial area of focus. Representatives from Alcon, Shourav Das Senior Manager, Practice Development, and Sightsavers India, Sayanti Bit, Manager, Corporate Partnerships, and Sampa Paul, State Programme Lead, West Bengal, were present during the event.

The BRC is often established to provide support, materials, and expertise to meet the diverse needs of students, including those with disabilities or special educational needs. The BRC will also serve as a central hub for engagement and capacity building, playing a key role in sensitizing government officials, teachers, and other stakeholders to the importance of inclusive education and the effective use of assistive technology. This comprehensive approach ensures that visually impaired students receive the support they need to thrive in their educational pursuits.

Under this initiative, assistive devices such as low-vision tools, mobiles, and laptops are provisioned free of cost to 60 children with visual impairments thus, ensuring they have the necessary tools to succeed in their educational journey. The children, aged 3-18 years old, were selected from low vision screening camps, which Sightsavers India jointly conducted with the government, and were enrolled in government schools, graded according to the government examination system.

These devices are crucial in bridging the gap between children with visual impairment and their peers, allowing them to access learning materials more effectively and independently. Along with catering to the needs of the visually impaired, there will be separate training provided to the teachers, staff members, and family members on how best to support the children’s special needs. All devices and training are provided free of cost. At times, other materials like games and activity-based learning materials are also handed out.

Amar Vyas, Country Head of Alcon India, added, “We at Alcon are honoured to be a part of this initiative, which aligns with our commitment to help people see brilliantly. By providing these assistive devices and supporting the Block Resource Centre, we are happy to help the children with visual impairments in Bankura have access to the education they deserve. It’s a privilege to work alongside Sightsavers India to advance such an important cause, and we look forward to seeing the lasting benefits this collaboration will bring.”

RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, on the occasion, said, “The inauguration of the Block Resource Centre and the provision of assistive devices in Bankura represent a critical step forward in our mission to make education accessible to all. By providing children with visual impairment with the necessary tools we are enabling inclusion of the students in mainstream education, stand on equal footing with their peers and achieve their full potential. Our collaboration with Alcon demonstrates the impact that strong partnerships can have in driving meaningful change.”

Quest Global and Drees & Sommer Form Strategic Partnership to Launch Innovation Hub in Bangalore

Bangalore, December 10th, 2024 – Quest Global, a leading global product engineering services company, today announced a strategic partnership with Drees & Sommer, a leading European consulting, planning, and project management enterprise, marking the latter’s foray into the Engineering, Procurement, Construction Management (EPCM) industry. This partnership will build a High Value Center of Performance and Innovation (HVCPI) in Bangalore. This collaboration will build competitiveness, scale, and capability, ensuring a seamless blend of expertise and capacity enhancement in line with Drees & Sommer’s 2030 Strategy.

This partnership signifies a major milestone for Quest Global as it ventures into the EPCM industry segment. As part of this collaboration, Quest Global will leverage its engineering expertise to establish a local-global team within the HVCPI to support Drees & Sommer to swiftly build sustainable competence and capacity, further solidifying their position in the EPCM and EPC industries.

“We are excited to collaborate with Drees & Sommer to build a High Value Center of Performance and Innovation, delivering innovative and high-quality engineering solutions. This partnership combines Drees & Sommer’s unparalleled expertise with our deep-rooted engineering capabilities, delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to our clients. By leveraging our combined strengths, we aim to redefine industry standards, offering unparalleled value and efficiency to our clients across various sectors,” said Ajay Prabhu, President -Technology Services, Quest Global.

Commenting on the partnership, Veit Thurm, Partner and Managing Director, Drees & Sommer said, “We are thrilled to partner with Quest Global and establish our presence in India. This partnership is crucial for our growth strategy and will enable us to enhance our service offerings and market competitiveness and will provide the flexibility and resilience required for continued success.”

The HVCPI is strategically designed to serve as a hub for innovation and excellence, driving advancements in key areas such as Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Civil, Structural, and Architecture services. The partnership will cater to specific sectors within the EPCM industry, including Hitech & Production Industries such as Semiconductor, Battery, Pharma & Lifesciences, Chemical, and Automotive.

Siemens Experience Centre by BSH Home Appliances Now Open in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, December 2024: BSH Home Appliances, a subsidiary of BSH Hausgeräte GmbH, a global leader in the home appliance industry has unveiled the Siemens Experience Centre in Bengaluru. This state-of-the-art facility sets a new benchmark for customer engagement, offering a deeply immersive and personalized journey into Siemens’ innovative, premium appliances.

The Siemens Experience Centre is designed to revolutionize how customers interact with home appliances. Personalized one-on-one consultations with in-house chefs and experts ensure that every visitor receives tailored guidance, from choosing the right products to understanding their features and receiving post-purchase support. This commitment to personalization underscores Siemens’ focus on making premium living accessible and deeply connected to individual needs. A standout feature is the Life Arena, a live kitchen where customers can engage with Siemens’ appliances firsthand. From exclusive masterclasses to live cooking demonstrations, visitors witness the unmatched possibilities of Siemens’ technology, turning everyday tasks into extraordinary experiences. For those designing dream kitchens, architects and designers collaborate to craft bespoke spaces that integrate Siemens’ appliances seamlessly into homes.

The Centre showcases Siemens’ range of connected appliances that integrate effortlessly into smart homes. From coffee machines with Home Connect app compatibility to dishwashers and washing machines offering unparalleled convenience, Siemens’ appliances are engineered to simplify life while delivering sophistication and performance. The dedicated studioLine section highlights exclusive, luxury options for discerning customers, accompanied by vibrant storytelling displays that bring every product’s innovation to life. Customers also get to experience the revolutionary iQ700 range of built-in ovens, a game-changer in the world of cooking. With an industry-first integrated camera powered by AI, the iQ700 oven allows users to select their preferred browning levels, tailoring results to individual tastes and preferences.

Bengaluru, renowned for its rapidly growing premium kitchen segment, is cementing its position as a hub for luxury living and innovation. Contributing an impressive 15% to the All India Siemens Built-in business, the city is a hotspot for globally acclaimed modular kitchen brands like Valcucine, Leicht Kitchens, SieMatic, and Poliform Kitchens. This thriving ecosystem of premium kitchen design aligns seamlessly with the city’s booming luxury market.

According to the Henley & Partners’ Centi-Millionaire Report 2024, Bengaluru is set to witness a staggering 150% rise in its centi-millionaire population, further driving demand for ultra-premium lifestyle experiences.

Saif Khan, MD & CEO of BSH Home Appliances India, expressed his excitement about the expansion in Bengaluru, stating, “We are excited to announce the opening of the Siemens Experience Centre in Bengaluru, a city that thrives on innovation and smart technology. This market reflects the aspirations of modern Indian consumers who value IoT-enabled appliances, energy efficiency, and premium living. Bengaluru is a key market for us, playing a crucial role in our growth in premium appliances segment. We are proud to create a space where customers can engage deeply with our innovative appliances, discover personalized solutions, and elevate their home living experience to new heights. The Siemens Experience Centre is more than just a retail destination—it’s a hub of inspiration, collaboration, and innovation that underscores BSH’s commitment to consumer-centricity and premium living.”

Consumers can explore the range of Siemens appliances and experience the offerings firsthand by visiting the Experience Centre at No – 8, GF, 15th Cross, 6th phase, JP Nagar, Bengaluru – 560078.

The company now operates multiple experience centres across major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Bengaluru as part of its commitment to providing unparalleled access to its luxury appliance portfolio across the country.

Gillco International School Hosts Career Fair, Connecting Students to Future Opportunities

Gillco International School recently organized a highly successful Career Fair for students of Classes IX to XII. The event, held on 07.12.24, aimed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of various career options and educational pathways available to them.

With over 35 prominent international and national universities participating, the Career Fair served as a vibrant platform for students to explore a wide range of academic opportunities. Prestigious universities from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, as well as top institutions from India, were present to interact with students and share valuable insights into their programs, admission procedures, and career prospects.

Throughout the day, students and parents had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one discussions with university representatives, attend informational sessions, and explore various career fields, from engineering and medicine to arts, business, and technology. The event also featured workshops on college admissions, scholarship opportunities, and personal statement writing, equipping students with the necessary tools to make informed decisions about their future.

The Career Fair was an immense success, providing students with invaluable exposure to global academic institutions and helping them take the next step toward shaping their careers. The event was a clear testament to Gillco International School’s commitment to nurturing the academic and professional growth of its students.

Indulge in the Best Sunday Brunch at The Lodhi, New Delhi

New Delhi,10 December 2024 – This winter season, The Lodhi has transformed into an exquisite sanctuary where luxury and indulgence reigned supreme. Starting from November, guests are invited to indulge in a Sunday Brunch like no other, set amidst the breathtaking beauty of The Lodhi’s magnificent lawns. The launch of the Brunch took place on 17th November, an exclusive event that drew an impressive crowd of influencers, media houses, and high-net-worth individuals (HNIs). Guests were welcomed by a glass of bubbly leading to The lawns, where personalized service and dramatic ambiance turned the brunch into a truly immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 Every Sunday, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, the brunch features a lavish buffet, offering a curated selection of global flavors, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and effervescent sparkling wines and champagne, continuing through March 2025. Guests are captivated by live cooking stations where The Lodhi’s skilled chefs prepare fresh, delectable dishes right before their eyes, creating an interactive and unforgettable culinary experience amidst the serene beauty of lawns. Adding to the atmosphere, a live music band set the tone for the occasion, infusing the space with lively tunes and vibrant energy. This dynamic entertainment, paired with impeccable service and the stunning surroundings, created a truly interactive and unforgettable experience.

 Adding to the festive cheer, The Lodhi hosted a special Christmas Cake Mixing Brunch on 24th November 2024, marking the beginning of the holiday season. Guests participated in a lively cake-mixing ceremony, crafting their own holiday cakes in a joyous celebration of tradition.

 Immerse yourself in this enchanting blend of gourmet cuisine, sparkling beverages, live entertainment, and breathtaking surroundings.

Tamra at Shangri-La Eros New Delhi Presents Lucknowi Dawat with home chef Mansi

(New Delhi, November 2024) – Shangri-La Eros New Delhi welcomes gourmets to discover the regal flavours of Lucknow’s legendary Awadhi cuisine, thoughtfully reimagined by Guest Chef Mansi. Delight in centuries-old recipes and time-honored traditions at Tamra, the hotel’s international cuisine restaurant, from November 28th to 30th, 2024.

 Chef Mansi, a culinary expert from Lucknow’s UP Khatri community, brings her deep knowledge of traditional Awadhi cuisine to this exclusive pop-up. Inspired by the women of her family, she honors her community’s vegetarian roots while embracing the diverse flavors of North Indian gastronomy. Her cooking philosophy centers on slow cooking and seasonal ingredients, whether preparing a Zaffrani Biryani or a Soulful Dal preparation. Through her Awadhi table experiences, Chef Mansi has gained recognition for her dedication to authentic recipes and traditional techniques.

 The signature collection includes Shammi Kabab, these soft, robustly flavored mince patties are filled with spicy surprises, offering a bold beginning to your feast. For a touch of traditional comfort, enjoy Khasta and Aaloo – crisp fried spicy kachoris paired with tangy potatoes in tomato gravy.

 The main course unfolds with the luxurious Zaffrani Biryani, an Awadhi-style delicacy delicately infused with the rich aroma of saffron. Tender, succulent meat is nestled in fragrant, spiced rice and slow-cooked to perfection using the traditional dum method. For a hearty winter treat, savor Nihari, a slow-braised stew cooked overnight with aromatic herbs and spices. The vegetarian options are equally enticing, with Lauki Musallam – a whole gourd stuffed with khoya and nuts in a lightly spiced gravy – and Nimona, a homely dish of fresh peas, spring onions, and mungori cooked to a delectable spicy flavour.

 End your meal on a sweet note with Phirni, a rich, saffron-flavored rice pudding garnished with dry fruits and silver warq, served in traditional earthenware bowls.

 Experience the magic of generations-old Awadhi recipes as Chef Mansi brings her family’s culinary legacy to Tamra. This limited-time pop-up promises an intimate evening of traditional flavors and heartwarming hospitality, straight from the kitchens of Lucknow.