Category Archives: News

Vikas Sharma Joins Locomotive Global Media as Head of Film Projects

08 August 2024; Mumbai, India: Locomotive Global Media, an international production company based in Mumbai, bolsters its leadership team with the appointment of Vikas Sharma as Head of Film Projects. In his new role, Vikas will oversee the development, acquisitions and business for the nascent film division at the company.

Vikas brings along with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise gained from his experience, stretching over a decade in the media and entertainment industry. Prior to joining Locomotive Global Media, Vikas served as Associate Producer at Bandra West Pictures for eight years, where he worked closely with renowned director Raja Krishna Menon. Vikas holds a postgraduate degree in Business Management from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Speaking on the new appointment, Sunder Aaron, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Locomotive Global Inc., said, “We are thrilled to have Vikas Sharma join the Locomotive Global Media family. His vision for storytelling, combined with a deep understanding of both Indian and international markets, aligns perfectly with our mission to produce compelling, world-class content. Vikas brings his unique creative perspective to each project that is married with a keen commercial understanding of what works in the Indian market. We trust that he will be able to deliver stories and narratives that not only resonate deeply with Indian audiences but also capture the imagination of viewers worldwide.”

Commenting on his appointment, Sharma said, “I am deeply grateful to Sunder for this opportunity and his confidence in me. Together, we are focused on crafting content with both Indian and global appeal that importantly also ensures profitability. As India embraces its moment on the world stage demonstrated by non-mainstream films like ‘Kill’, ‘All We Imagine as Light’, and even ‘Monkey Man’, we’re excited to invest time and resources in film projects that are aligned with the company’s global objectives and brand ethos, while helping to establish Locomotive Global Media as a leading boutique studio. We are particularly excited about projects in the horror and thriller genre that possess an elevated approach to their storytelling.”

Vikas Sharma will report into Sunder Aaron of Locomotive Global Media. He is based out of Mumbai and his appointment is with immediate effect.

LifeCell Forays into Skincare with AreoVeda, Specialising in Cellular Skin Science

Mumbai, 8th August, 2024: LifeCell, India’s pioneering stem cell bank and a leader in diagnostics, genetic testing, and pre-conception care, is poised to disrupt the world of mother-baby skincare with the launch of AreoVeda. With this, the brand has unveiled a product range, especially crafted for pregnant women, new moms, and newborns, that shatters existing norms through its uncompromising standards of purity, potency, and safety. Masterfully harnessing the regenerative powers of natural ingredients, the company introduces a cellular science-backed approach that is single-handedly redefining how clean skincare is perceived.

Incepted to counter concerns like stretch marks, pigmentation, acne, and dryness in the case of expectant and new mothers and eczema, diaper rash and cradle cap in the case of babies, the company offers solutions for all skin problems faced by this cohort. Its products undergo 10+ cellular tests on lab-grown human skin cells in LifeCell’s accredited labs via tests like:

● Cytotoxicity to evaluate the toxicity of product ingredients on skin cells,

● Anti-irritation test that assesses a cosmetic product’s safety by using ELISA technology,

● Bone formation assay, which evaluates the product’s ability to enhance and stimulate bone formation,

● Cell-migration assay which helps decode the wound-healing effects of the products on dermal cells,

● Anti-ageing test to assess skincare product effectiveness by using RT-PCR technology and much more!

Taru Mayur, Co-founder of AreoVeda, said, “An EWG study revealed that 200+ chemicals were found in a baby’s umbilical cord blood that came from what the mother had been exposed to. This means what goes in and on the body, including the skincare products, could impact a baby’s healthy growth & development. Given these findings, there is an urgent need for a skincare brand like AreoVeda that combines natural ingredients with advanced cellular testing methods to ensure the products’ safety and efficacy. We are excited to introduce our products, and we are sure that our customers will come to see us as a reliable ally who they can trust during this beautiful phase of life.”

AreoVeda has secured the coveted EWG and ECOCERT COSMOS certifications. The former validates the brand’s claim that its products are pure and free of chemicals listed by the body, thereby meeting all prescribed standards of consumer health. And only <2% of brands across the globe have managed to get this prestigious certification. The latter attests to the fact that 95% of the ingredients used to formulate the products are natural and plant-based. AreoVeda has actually bested this requirement and ensures that >98% of its ingredients are natural, while successfully passing all the stringent manufacturing and lab site audits.

It is also hailed for inaugurating the industry-first process of cryomilling, wherein four “hero” ingredients are milled with liquid nitrogen at extremely low temperatures (-196°C), ensuring they are pure, micronised, contaminant-free, and retain their natural properties. These are the star constituents in the brand’s CryoHeroes range – CryoCoffee, CryoGold, CryoOats & CryoHayal.

In addition to being India’s 1st band that is Ecocert certified, EWG verified and cellularly proven, AreoVeda also prioritises sustainable practices. Moreover, they come in eco-friendly packaging that minimises the brand’s environmental footprint and sets new standards for socially responsible & cruelty free skincare.

The brand’s collection is divided into three segments:

● The pregnancy range includes stretch marks cream, skin clarifying serum, skin brightening serum, foam face wash, and moisturising spray lotion.

● Products designed for new mothers include hydrating Foam Body Wash, post-natal massage oil, under-eye serum, natural nipple butter, and skin brightening serum.

● The collection for babies comprises baby head-to-toe foam wash, baby dusting powder, deep moisturising baby cream, baby massage oil, and moisturising baby spray lotion.

For those impressed by the company’s accreditations and credits, its products are available for purchase on its official website and e-commerce platforms like Amazon. Shortly, they will also be available on Flipkart, FirstCry, Nykaa and Quick Commerce Platforms.

Unlock the Power of GenAI with Check Point Software Technologies

The GenAI Revolution is Already Here

Generative AI applications like ChatGPT and Gemini are here to stay. But as they make users’ lives much simpler, they also make your organization’s life much harder.

While some organizations have outright banned GenAI applications, according to a Check Point and Vason Bourne study, 92% of organizations allow their employees to use GenAI tools yet are concerned about security and data leakage. In fact, one estimate says 55% of data leakage events are a direct result of GenAI usage.

As tasks like debugging code and refining text can now be completed in a fraction of the time, without the right tools, these very same tasks can put your business data and compliance at risk.

Conventional Tools Fail to address GenAI Risks

Conventional data protection solutions are not designed to detect and prevent data leakage in generative AI applications, as they rely on static predefined keywords and patterns. They fail to understand the context of unstructured data typical of GenAI prompts, which are inherently conversational.

In fact, to address GenAI risks, you need a GenAI-based solution.

Check Point lets you Adopt Generative AI Safely

Available as part of our Preview Program, Check Point’s GenAI security solution installs in minutes to discover the GenAI services used in your organization, assess their risk, and apply groundbreaking AI- powered data protection so you can adopt the latest services without the added risk.

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The solution applies Check Point’s transformative AI-powered data analysis to accurately classify conversational data within prompts. Our groundbreaking classification technology understands data context to deliver precision visibility and control, while avoiding the need to define cumbersome data- types.

Figure 1: GenAI-based Data Classification in a Next Gen DLPFor example, using its GenAI-powered DLP the solution can distinguish between low-risk content, like the acquisition of a new home, and high-risk content like the potential acquisition of a company.

“Generative AI is boosting enterprise productivity by providing AI assistance in marketing, data analysis and even code development. Unfortunately, employees are exposing enterprises to cyber risk through data loss and intellectual property theft by including confidential information in GenAI apps. CISOs are looking for ways to securely manage the use of GenAI applications across the enterprise”, said Frank Dickson, Group Vice President, Security & Trust, IDC. “Through AI and automation, Check Point’s new GenAI Protect enables enterprises to safely adopt generative AI tools by discovering how GenAI apps are being used, analyze the data being shared, apply a security policy that prevents data loss in real time, and enable visibility and reporting for compliance.”

The solution delivers immediate value, empowering organizations to:

#1 Discover and Assess GenAI Usage across your Enterprise

Check Point’s GenAI security solution lets you uncover both sanctioned and shadow GenAI apps, and provides visibility into top GenAI use cases, such as coding and marketing, so you can make informed

GenAI governance decisions. It also uncovers sources of data copied/pasted into prompts and provides a risk score to prioritize mitigation.

#2 Prevent Data Loss in Real-Time and Address Privacy Concerns

The solution lets you enforce customizable policies to prevent data leakage and apply AI-powered data loss prevention to stop the sharing of sensitive unstructured data. It even lets you enforce copy/paste restrictions to prevent the siphoning of source code repositories, CRM tools, corporate email and other sensitive applications.

#3 Meet Regulations with Enterprise-grade Visibility

Check Point’s new GenAI security solution delivers granular monitoring and visibility to facilitate regulatory compliance. It provides visibility into risky user prompts and high-risk AI applications (based on app-specific threat intelligence), and even specifies why a prompt as flagged as hazardous.

How Check Point’s Solution is Different

Unlike other solutions, Check Point lets you:

• Get started minutes, requiring only a simple browser extension to discover GenAI applications and start creating policies.
• Uncover your top GenAI use cases, e.g. coding, marketing and email, so you can make informed GenAI governance decisions

Leverage GenAI-powered data classification to accurately identify and block sensitive data in AI prompts

Enhancing your Security with Yet Another Layer of AI

With our latest offering, Check Point is enhancing enterprise security yet again by harnessing the power of AI, adding to AI Copilot which serves as a personal GenAI security assistant, AI Cloud Protect for protecting AI development in the cloud, and ThreatCloud AI for zero-day threat prevention.

CII Gujarat Presents: “Igniting the Flame of Gujarati Family Businesses” featuring Mr. Piruz Khambatta Gujarat

Gujarat, August 2024 – The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Gujarat State MSME & Vendor Development Panel is thrilled to announce the fourth episode of its Fireside Chat Series, titled “Igniting the Flame of Gujarati Family Businesses.” This enlightening session is scheduled for Friday, August 09, 2024, from 04:00 PM to 05:30 PM, and will be conducted on a virtual platform.

 The Fireside Chat will feature a distinguished guest, Mr. Piruz Khambatta, Ph.D., Chairman of the Rasna Group. Mr. Khambatta brings a wealth of experience in Agri and FMCG business and he is also involved in societal activities, as the Hon. Consul General for South Korea, Chairman of the CII National Committee on Affirmative Action & Special Abilities. He was past President of All India Food Processors ‘Association (AIFPA), Past Chairman CII Western Region, Chairman CII National Committee on Food Processing, Founder Trustee of the Areez Khambatta Benevolent Trust and Rasna Foundation, and Ambassador for the Make in India initiative and Champion of Change (NITI Aayog). He will share insights drawn from his extensive leadership roles and experience in the business world.

 The session will be moderated by Mr. Bhavik Khera, Convenor of the CII MSME & Vendor Development Panel and Managing Director of SEE Linkages Pvt. Ltd. Mr. Khera will facilitate an engaging discussion with Mr. Khambatta, focusing on the experiences and strategies behind the success of prominent Gujarati family businesses.

 This Fireside Chat Series aims to showcase the invaluable wisdom of successful Gujarati business families and to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights from industry leaders and participate in a Q&A session.

Exicom to Acquire Industry Leader Tritium; Expands Global Footprint in EV Charging

New Delhi, 08 August 2024: Exicom Tele-systems Limited India’s largest Electric Vehicle (“EV”) charger manufacturer, announced today that its subsidiary Exicom Power Solutions B.V. Netherlands and other step down subsidiaries, have entered into a definitive agreement under which it will acquire business and assets of Tritium group of companies (henceforth referred to as “Tritium”), a distinguished global leader in DC Fast Chargers, headquartered in Australia.

With over 13,000 DC Fast Chargers sold in 47 countries, Tritium is recognised as a leading industry brand globally. Founded in 2001, Tritium designs and manufactures proprietary hardware and software to create advanced and reliable liquid-cooled DC Fast Chargers for electric vehicles. Tritium’s chargers are designed for both aesthetic appeal and durability in tough environments. They feature engineering that simplifies installation, ownership, and usage.

With this landmark acquisition, Exicom is set to unlock substantial long-term growth and value for its stakeholders. The acquisition adds Tritium’s manufacturing facility in Tennessee, USA, as well as a world-class engineering centre in Brisbane, Australia to Exicom’s existing presence in Asia. The acquisition expands Exicom’s global reach and amplifies its commitment to research and development to drive innovation in this growing industry. With the complementary product portfolio of Exicom and Tritium, the acquisition provides the opportunity to serve the different use cases across the world and expand EV infrastructure adoption.

According to BloombergNEF’s “Economic Transition Scenario,” which forecasts EV growth based on current techno-economic trends, EVs are slated to reach 45 percent of global passenger-vehicle sales by 2030 and 73 percent by 2040.

Anant Nahata, CEO, Exicom said, “This acquisition is in line with Exicom’s strategic vision to be a key contributor to the world of tomorrow by enabling an emission free future for mobility. Exicom and Tritium have a complementary sales and product footprint and have each established leadership in their respective regions. We look forward to working with Tritium’s employees, customers, partners and other stakeholders to grow the business further and provide faster, more reliable charging experiences to EV users across the globe.”

RBI Holds Repo Rate at 6.5%, Supporting Stability and Growth in Real Estate Sector

In a crucial decision for India’s economic landscape, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das announced on August 8th that the central bank will maintain the repo rate at 6.5% in its bi-monthly monetary policy statement. This key rate, which influences the cost of short-term loans for banks, plays an important role in shaping the financial environment for businesses and consumers alike. By holding the repo rate steady, the RBI aims to strike a balance between economic growth and managing inflationary pressures, thereby supporting the ongoing momentum in the real estate sector.

Manoj Gaur, CMD, Gaurs Group & Chairman, CREDAI National-“For the ninth consecutive time, RBI has maintained the status quo on the repo rate. This aligns well with the country’s economic growth projections and will propel infrastructural development. It also signals long-term stability and augurs well for the real estate sector. However, the affordable housing sector development is lagging, and given the huge unmet demand, this is an area of concern, and we hope that RBI will take it into account in the future”

Amit Modi, Director, County Group- “The move by RBI to keep the repo rate unchanged was the need of the hour and we hope it remains the same in near future as well. Looking at the macro economic situation of the country in regards to the middle class, this move was of vital importance for first time home buyers planning to invest in real estate as an asset class, since it’s brings in certain amount of stability in interest rates for those home buyers who are still sitting on the fence, but at the same time aspiring ownership of there dream home. Seen along with the recently announced choice under new indexation policy for Long Term Capital Gains Tax for assets bought before June 23, 2024, this will definitely be seen as favorable act by the huge middle class across India.”

Nayan Raheja, Raheja Developers- “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 6.5% for the ninth consecutive time indicates a positive trajectory for the real estate sector. As luxury housing gains momentum, maintaining the status quo will further boost the demand for more properties and strengthen market confidence. On the other hand, it is a huge step towards easing the financial strain on prospective buyers. The sector has already been performing well over the past years, and this decision is anticipated to foster the sector’s growth, opening the gateway for developers to launch projects in emerging areas of interest.”

Sandeep Chhillar, Founder & Chairman, of Landmark Group- “Real estate is a rate-sensitive sector and maintaining the repo rate at 6.50% for the ninth time in a row propels positive sentiments in the realty market. With housing demand at an all-time high, consistent loan rates are likely to see greater confidence among both buyers and developers, paving the way for an upward growth trajectory and a sustained market momentum. This steady approach towards interest rates is expected to increasingly encourage potential homebuyers>”

Ashwinder R. Singh, Co-Chair of CII’s NR Committee on Real Estate, CEO Residential at Bhartiya Urban, and Author- “The RBI’s decision to keep rates steady at 6.5% provides a stable environment for real estate. This continuity helps maintain affordability and boosts investor confidence. By avoiding rate hikes, the RBI supports ongoing projects and encourages new investments, crucial for sustainable growth in the housing sector.”

Kushagr Ansal, Director of Ansal Housing- “The RBI’s decision to maintain the current repo rate for the ninth time is a welcome news for the market. With GDP figures expected to improve and the real estate sector’s contribution to GDP increasing, this move by the RBI will undoubtedly stimulate real estate investments.”

Yash Miglani, MD Migsun Group- “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate at 6.5% hfor ninth time has positive implications for the realty sector. With an interest rates remaining stable, prospective homebuyers can take advantage of a favorable lending environment.”

Director of SKA Group Sanjay Sharma- “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 6.50% for the ninth consecutive time anticipates an appreciative upswing in the housing market. Amidst the rise in housing prices, the constant home loan rates will bring some relief to homebuyers. In addition, the unchanged interest rates will profit buyers and developers, establishing strong consumer confidence and investment in the sector. The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate steady will lead to establishing new projects and expanding developments in emerging areas.”

Harsh Gupta, CEO, Sundream Group- “The RBI’s decision to hold the repo rate at 6.5% for the ninth consecutive review reflects a strategic balance between fostering economic growth and managing inflation. This prolonged period of stability, the second-longest in the past 25 years, signals confidence in the current economic trajectory. With the GDP growth projection steady at 7.2%, the RBI’s policy supports a robust economic environment, encouraging sustained investment and development. This consistent monetary stance reassures markets and investors, providing a predictable backdrop for commercial ventures and long-term planning.”

Rajjath Goel, Managing Director, MRG Group- “The authorities have reinforced the sign of stability by keeping the repo rate constant for the ninth time. With the GDP growth projection steady at 7.2%, this stability of 6.5% in the repo rate will strengthen the buyers’ incline towards the sector. Such steadiness will lower borrowing costs, making real estate development projects more accessible and affordable. However, a modest reduction in the repo rate would be beneficial, offering encouragement to developers and buyers. Given real estate’s sensitivity to price fluctuations, the RBI’s steady approach is expected to provide a valuable boost to the industry.”

Sanjeev Arora, Director, 360 Realtors- “Keeping the repo rate unchanged was on expected lines, following hike in inflation to 5.1% in the month of June. Rise in inflation coupled with uncertainties in the global market and surge in freight prices will dissuade the government to take a more aggressive stance on economy. Rather than liquidity infusion, the focus will be pinned more on stable prices. The silver lining is that EMIs will remain unchanged and the realty demand is not going to cool down soon. Upbeat job market, healthy economic momentum and expansive aggregate demand will continue to drive both housing and commercial real estate in the country in positive direction.”

Prateek Tiwari, MD, Prateek Group – “The repo rate is unchanged at 6.50% which is a strategic move that supports ongoing growth in the real estate sector. The Indian real estate market has been witnessing growth recently, and this steady rate is set to further benefit the sector. Particularly, the luxury and premium segments have seen a notable increase in sales, with buyers eager to invest in high-end properties. We believe this decision will positively impact the luxury real estate market and propel the sector’s growth.”

Uddhav Poddar, Managing Director, Bhumika Group-“The projections of GDP growth are robust. Given this backdrop the decision by RBI to keep the repo rate unchanged, this is a sign of stability and it presents a picture of a resilient economy.”

Dr. Amish Bhutani, Managing Director, Group 108- “The RBI has once again taken a commendable step by maintaining the repo rate steady for the ninth consecutive time. A stable repo rate instills confidence in both commercial real estate investors and homebuyers. This stability directly impacts the growth of the real estate sector, significantly contributing to India’s GDP and future growth prospects.”

Harinder Singh Hora, Founder Chairman, Reach Group-“We commend the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate. This strategic move is anticipated to positively impact commercial real estate growth by ensuring stable loan interest rates. Potential buyers in these markets will benefit from not having additional financial pressures, fostering a more conducive environment for investment. This decision is poised to elevate the sector, paving the way for new project launches in emerging areas.”

Prateek Mittal, ED, Sushma Group- “The RBI Governor chose to maintain the repo rate at 6.50% for the ninth consecutive time. This move is promising because it reduces the financial pressure on potential buyers. This decision could serve as a strong motivator for those interested in commercial property to move forward with their purchases. Additionally, it is likely to encourage the growth of affordable and mid-range commercial developments, invigorate the real estate market, and help more people realize their property ownership aspirations.”

Mukul Bansal, MD, Motiaz-“The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged reflects their confidence in the economic outlook. This consistency is likely to have a substantial positive effect on the residential real estate market, presenting attractive investment opportunities for a broad range of buyers. We believe this approach will continue to support the real estate sector moving forward. Additionally, the government’s efforts to manage inflation will provide further advantages. This stability is expected to benefit both residential and commercial real estate sectors, creating enticing investment prospects for all investors.”

Sehaj Chawla, Managing Director of TREVOC- “RBI’s decision to maintain the current repo rate, along with its focus on curtailing inflation, brings a much-needed sigh of relief for buyers, bankers, and real estate developers. This stability is crucial as it bolsters market confidence, allowing stakeholders to plan and invest with greater certainty. The unchanged rate, now ingrained in market expectations, further solidifies a foundation for sustainable growth in the real estate sector.”

Prasoon Chauhan, Founder & CEO, Aurika Homes- “There is a huge unmet demand for houses in the country. Coupled with the recent budgetary provision to promote urban housing and stability in the repo rate for the last two years, it will boost the real estate sector growth. However, inflation is a matter of concern, and we hope that RBI succeeds in curbing its rise, which in turn may lead to a further reduction in the repo rate.”

Piyush Kansal Executive Director of Royale Estate Group- “The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate at 6.50% for the ninth consecutive year is expected to positively impact the real estate market. As home prices are rising, the stability in home loan rates will offer some relief to buyers. Furthermore, maintaining these interest rates is likely to benefit both purchasers and developers, boosting consumer confidence and encouraging investment in the sector. This steady rate is anticipated to see the launch of new projects and drive growth in developing regions.”

Pawan Sharma, MD, Trisol RED- “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 6.5% for the ninth consecutive time greatly benefits the real estate sector. This stability in interest rates enhances consumer confidence, making home purchases more attractive and affordable. As a result, real estate emerges as a more appealing investment compared to volatile alternatives, drawing interest from both domestic and foreign investors.”

Tejpreet Singh, MD, Gillco Group-“The Indian real estate sector has been on a strong upward trend in recent years. The RBI’s move to keep the repo rate steady at 6.50% is likely to further benefit this Real Estate sector. We’ve seen a notable rise in sales within the premium and luxury segments, and stable interest rates should boost buyer confidence and maintain interest in the market. Given the sector’s positive performance over the past few years, this decision will continue to support both buyers and developers. It’s also important to remember that the market tends to recover and grow, and we expect this trend to continue.”

Neeraj Sharma, MD, Escon Infra Realtor –“Real estate investments are growing exponentially, and the RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 6.50% for the ninth time will further boost the industry. With rising luxury housing demand, stable loan rates will foster greater confidence among buyers and developers, promoting sustainable, long-term growth. This consistency in interest rates will enhance the residential sector, encouraging developers to curate projects catering to the buyers’ needs.”

Ajendra Singh, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Spectrum Metro- “The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate at 6.50% for the ninth consecutive time is a positive step towards easing the financial strain on prospective buyers. This decision is slated to provide a significant incentive for potential buyers in the commercial sector to proceed with their property purchases. Furthermore, it is expected to boost the development of affordable and mid-range commercial projects, foster a vibrant real estate market, and facilitate more individuals achieving property ownership dreams.”

Salil Kumar, Director, Marketing and Business Management, CRC Group- “Once again, the RBI has made a commendable move by keeping the repo rate constant. With an exceptionally performing economy and good GDP growth, stable interest rates will benefit buyers and developers. This will further strengthen the commercial and residential market, offering investment opportunities to all. Considering the upcoming festive season, this announcement will lead to outstanding customer engagement, benefitting the entire sector.”

The RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 6.5% underscores its commitment to nurturing economic stability and growth. This strategic move is anticipated to flourish the Indian real estate market by making home and commercial property investments more affordable. As the sector continues to grow, the steady repo rate provides a conducive environment for further expansion, benefiting both investors and the broader economy. The RBI’s approach reflects a cautious yet optimistic outlook, aiming to sustain progress while ensuring long-term stability in the financial system.

The World-renowned Apollo standard care comes to Chirala with the launch of Apollo Spectra Hospital

Chirala, 8th August 2024: Apollo Health and Lifestyle Limited (AHLL), a subsidiary of Apollo Hospitals Group; announced its foray into Chirala, with its boutique format multi-speciality hospital, The Apollo Spectra Hospital, today. The modern secondary care Hospital offering cutting edge personalised treatment, was formally inaugurated by Dr Manikyamma, a renowned gynaecologist from Chirala. The launch of the state-of-the-art Apollo Spectra Hospital which aims to provide access to comprehensive, affordable and personalized quality healthcare to the people of Chirala and the neighbourhood. Chirala is a buzzing coastal city in the state of Andhra Pradesh.

The Apollo Spectra Hospital at Chirala is designed to meet the highest standards of medical excellence, ensuring every patient receives tailored attention and care. Spanning an impressive 33,000 square feet, the hospital is a fifty-bedded facility equipped to deliver exceptional patient care. It boasts thirteen ICU beds, five emergency beds, and three paediatric ICU beds, alongside nineteen rooms and two general wards, all designed with best-in-class amenities and a patient-friendly ambiance.

Speaking on the occasion Dr Manikyamma said, Its more than five decades since we have been rendering quality medical care to patients through Ravi Nursing Home in Chirala. It was Dr Doppalapudi Dasaradha Ramaiah, who brought the first ultrasound scan machine, gastroscopy equipment, to benefit the patients of Chirala. I am confident of the new Apollo Spectra Hospital making a mark in Chirala and helping patients to get the best medical care services here itself.

“As we open the doors of Apollo Spectra Hospital in Chirala, we bring with us a commitment to world-class healthcare and unwavering compassion. Apollo Spectra is guided by a ‘patient-centric’ approach and strengthened by the introduction of quality systems built on Apollo’s deep expertise in the healthcare domain. We believe this format has strong potential to address the ever-growing need for quality & customized health care especially for a wide range of surgeries which do not require long stay. The format blends access, convenience and quality with an intent to address immediate needs of the neighbourhood it operates in. Our state-of-the-art facility, combined with a legacy of excellence and a team of highly skilled specialists, ensures the best medical care right here. Our endeavour is to make every patient feel valued and receive the best possible treatment close to home”, says Sriram Iyer, CEO, Apollo Health and Lifestyle Ltd.

Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chirala; features the latest in medical technology, including four ultra-modern operating theatres, an avant-garde diagnostic lab, an ultrasound scan with a transvaginal probe and printer, 12-channel ECG machines, foetal monitors and dopplers, and gastroscopy equipment. Additionally, the ICUs are equipped with para monitors, defibrillators, and a range of other cutting-edge devices, ensuring the highest safety standards for every patient.

“Our family’s five-decade legacy of providing the highest quality care in Chirala, coupled with the global standard expertise of Apollo Spectra Group and backed by the renowned Apollo Hospitals Group, is set to transform the patient experience to next level. With this modern facility now in their vicinity, patients in Chirala and neighbouring areas no longer need to travel to distant Hyderabad or Chennai in search of top-notch medical care. This local access to world-class healthcare will elevate patient care to unprecedented levels”; says Dr Doppalapudi Ravikiran, M.D, Manikyamma Multispeciality Hospital, Chirala.

 Over the last few decades Chirala, Bapatla and nearby towns witnessed tremendous growth, but healthcare systems in this area still lack critical infrastructure to keep up with the ever growing needs. Even today critical patients from Chirala have to go to Guntur or Ongole. Apollo Hospitals has rendered world class medical services for the last four decades in various cities across India and have set new standards in the world of healthcare. We from Ravi Nursing Home, strongly believe in advancing healthcare by partnering with Apollo Spectra Hospital. Our motto is to bring quality healthcare together, which is more patient friendly and easily accessible. We are committed to bringing medial and surgical services that are on par with international standards, coupled with best practices. Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chirala is the 23rd hospital of the Apollo Spectra Hospitals chain in India. It has 13 functional ICU beds along with NICU and paediatric ICU. It has in-room birthing suits, supported by cutting edge technology, ensuring highest safety standards. Patients can expect care from specialists from diverse specialities under one roof. We will be commencing all other super specialities shortly, Dr Ravikiran added.

Shri Vegesana Narendra Varma, MLA, Baptla; said, though I belong to Bapatla, the medical facilities at Bapatla are relatively lesser in comparison to Chirala and several patients prefer to come to Chirala. With a reputed Hospital like Apollo Hospitals coming to Chirala, makes it the destination for best medical care, which is a long felt need of the people in the region. Medical infrastructure wise this area is backward, but off late some new developments are seen in medical facilities and hope to see more hospitals like Apollo Hospitals setting up their services here. Ravi Nursing home run by Dr Manikyamma has very good reputation for medical care and the new Apollo Spectra Hospital at Chirala will benefit the patients immensely.

Dr Vijaya Agarwal, DMS, Apollo Health and Lifestyle Ltd., said, Apollo bring four decades of world class healthcare experience with hospitals across the country rendering services to patients. We provide affordable care using local resources, state-of-the-art technology backed by best talent in the country. Our healthcare services not only focus on curative healthcare, we lay great emphasis on preventive healthcare. Our vertical ProHealth is the preventive healthcare vertical, which is backed by Artificial Intelligence. AI prescribes customised healthcare package depending on the need of the patient. The results provide the current status and predict the future disease risk patterns of the patient. This helps to diagnose the disease at a very early stage and prevent it with appropriate care. We have a very strong quality management program, which is called Q4E, Quality for excellence, which monitors 40 different quality indicators, monitored by a central by a team of experts, any deviation in the quality is fixed then and there. Through this hospital we will be serving the people of Chirala, who no more need to go out of Chirala for higher health care needs.

Shri Karnam Balaram, former MLA and MP; speaking at the inauguration said, Ravi Nursing Home was the most reputed hospital in Chirala. Dr Manikyamma cared for generations of women during their pregnancy in Chirala and Dr Doppalapudi Dasaradha Ramaiah, was reputed to the best care. Dr Ravikiran and Dr Nirupami are continuing the legacy of their parents. People have the highest confidence in the care rendered by Apollo Hospitals and happy that Apollo is bringing those quality services for patients here.

Highly experienced specialists, trained both abroad and in India, helm the diverse specialities at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chirala. These include General and Laparoscopic Surgery; Obstetrics and Gynecology; General Medicine; Chest Medicine; Anesthesia and Critical Care; Nephrology; Cardiology; Neurology; Gastroenterology; Urology; Plastic Surgery; Orthopedics; Pediatrics; Radiology; E N T; Dermatology; Psychiatry; and more. This extensive range of expertise ensures that patients receive comprehensive care under one roof.

Apollo Spectra Hospitals, the largest network of multi-speciality short stay surgical hospitals in India, has presence currently in sixteen cities across India, including in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai, the hospital at Chirala is the twenty third hospital of the chain. The network hospitals with over 3000 leadings specialists performed over 3,50,000 successful surgeries. The Group further plans to expand its footprint to certain important cities in North India as well, in this financial year.

The Sandur Manganese & Iron Ores Limited Announces Appointment of New CEO and COO

Mumbai/Bengaluru, 8 August 2024: The Sandur Manganese & Iron Ores Limited (‘SMIORE’ or ‘the Company’), a leading player in the mining and metals industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Krishnendu Sanyal as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Manjunath Prabhu as Chief Operating Officer (COO). These leadership appointments are aimed at augmenting the Company’s management bandwidth and driving forward its ambitious plans for integration and sustainability in the metals & mining industry.

Krishnendu Sanyal, the newly appointed CEO, brings ~32 years of experience in strategic, financial, and operational leadership. His illustrious career spans across major companies such as Tata Steel in India and Sri Lanka, The Siam Industrial Wire Co. in Thailand, and Sedibeng Iron Ore in South Africa. Krishnendu has global experience and a proven track record in turning around and expanding operations, and creating value through acquisitions, integrations, and divestments. He has valuable domestic and international experience with one of the country’s largest companies whose core values resonate with that of SMIORE. He has led various roles and undertaken responsibilities in business sustainability, management change, and new business development across different geographies. His past experience perfectly aligns with SMIORE’s future endeavours. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering coupled with a Master’s in Business Administration. He has also participated in Tata Group Strategic Leadership Program from Harvard Business School.

Manjunath Prabhu, the newly appointed COO, also has ~36 years of experience in operations, leadership, and strategic planning. His extensive background includes significant roles at JSW Steel, Vijayanagar; Essar Steel, Visakhapatnam; and KOICL, Mangalore. Manjunath has a deep understanding of the Ballari region’s metals and mining operations and expertise in various facets of operations including production, project commissioning, land acquisition, beneficiation, and raw material handling system (RMHS), among others. He is a Mechanical Engineering graduate by qualification and was part of the Future Fit Leader by Cornell University from 2016-19.

Commenting on this milestone, Bahirji A. Ghorpade, Managing Director, SMIORE said:
“This is a strategic initiative to augment our management bandwidth and bolster our leadership as we march forward with our plans to cement our position in the industry. As we transition towards a sustainable and integrated future, building the required management bandwidth to drive the execution of our strategic priorities is crucial. We are excited to welcome Krishnendu and Manjunath to the SMIORE family. With his global experience with steel industry majors, Krishnendu’s expertise in various facets of the industry and strategic leadership will be a valuable addition. At the same time, Manjunath’s long stint with one of India’s leading steel players and his experience in Bellari’s metals & mining operations will be an invaluable asset. I look forward to working closely with both of them, as we scale new heights and continue to innovate and excel, creating a future-ready organisation poised for sustainable value creation.”

Speaking on being appointed as the CEO of SMIORE, Krishnendu Sanyal, said:
“I am excited to be part of SMIORE’s promising transition to an integrated and sustainable metals and mining powerhouse. With many potent triggers in the offing, including its recent mining expansion, SMIORE is on a path to creating a lasting legacy in the Indian metals & mining industry.”

Speaking on being appointed as the COO of SMIORE, Manjunath Prabhu, said:
“Having been working in the Bellari region since 1996, I have observed up close how SMIORE has run one of the best mining operations in the country. I have great respect and admiration for the SMIORE brand, and I am excited to contribute to its journey of transitioning beyond mining into other facets of the industry.”

Apollo Diagnostics Unveils Its New Modern Processing Lab At Kasba, In South Kolkata

Kolkata, August 8, 2024: Apollo Diagnostics, a unit of Apollo Health and Lifestyle Ltd., one of the leading diagnostic lab chains with an ISO certification; unveiled its 140th processing lab, in the country, at Kasba in South Kolkata. The state-of-the-art Apollo Diagnostics lab was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Mr Javed Ahmed Khan, MLA, Kasba Constituency. Apollo Diagnostics has 4 other labs in the region, in addition to this lab, along with 200 more centers in the state of West Bengal.

With a monthly processing capacity of over 25,000 samples, the new lab offers a broad spectrum of tests from routine to specialized, including home sample collection services. This expansion addresses the growing demand for high-quality diagnostic services in the region. Residents of Kasba will now have access to over 3,000 tests and various preventive Xpert Health Checkup packages of Apollo Diagnostics.

“Our new lab in Kasba helps us improve the turnaround time on reports and also strengthens our position in the state of West Bengal. Patients can now receive world-class diagnostic services right here”, said Mr Sriram Iyer, Chief Executive Officer, Apollo Health & Lifestyle Limited.

The laboratory spans over 1500 square feet and comprises multiple divisions, including Hematology, Biochemistry, Clinical Pathology, Serology and Microbiology. It uses fully automated instruments to avoid manual errors, and works as per the NABL quality standards to give accurate and precise test results. All the lab doctors and technicians are certified and professionally trained to service the customers with expertise.

Fortune Hotels signs a new property in Rishikesh

New Delhi, 8th August 2024: Fortune Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group, announced its latest signing in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. With stellar views of the Holy Ganges, this under development property is all set to open in June 2025.

Poised to feature stylish well-appointed rooms and suites, this upscale retreat is designed to cater to the diverse needs of the modern day traveller, be it the soul seeker or an adventure enthusiast. In addition, the resort will consist of an array of contemporary amenities, including a spacious café, a versatile all-day diner, a chic bar, and a banquet hall suitable for various events and gatherings. Guests can also look forward to rejuvenating at the state-of-the-art spa or by the rooftop swimming pool enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Speaking on the signing, Mr Samir MC, Managing Director, Fortune Hotels said, “We are committed to Fortune Hotels expansion plans into tier II and III cities, with a special focus on leisure markets. This upcoming property, strategically located in the beautiful confines of Uttarakhand, makes for a very strong business proposition, and is our fifth signing in the state. Its impressive location and spiritual fabric adds another feather to our leisure offerings that our guests can travel to and explore.”

Rishikesh, located at an altitude of 340 m, is a revered city on the banks of the river Ganges, approximately 45 kms from Dehradun. While on one hand its known as the ‘Yoga capital of the world’, attracting visitors from across the globe seeking peace and spiritual enrichment; on the other hand, it’s an adventure seekers paradise flocked by rafters seeking to experience the rapids and trekkers eager to scale its hilly terrain.

Moreover, Rishikesh is the gateway to the Char Dham pilgrimage sites: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The city’s vibrant culture and the serene Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat make it a must-visit destination. Additionally, its proximity to major business hubs and pharmaceutical companies in Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun further enhances its appeal.

In addition to this new signing Fortune Hotels has three other operating hotels in Uttarakhand namely, Haridwar, Haldwani, Mussoorie and a soon to open jungle retreat in Jim Corbett.