28, Feb 2025
BillMart Fintech & CMAI Partner to Simplify Trade Finance for Garment
Mumbai, 28th February25:BillMartFintechPvt.Ltd., India’s leading and new age digital lending platform specializing in bill discounting, trade finance, and supply chain solutions, has signed a strategic MoU with the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), becoming the official Digital Funding Partner for its members. BillMart was also part of the recently held 80th National Garment Fair, where it actively engaged with industry leaders, hosting insightful sessions with garment manufacturers and founders on the future of digital financing in the apparel sector.
The Indian textile and apparel industry is valued at $138 billion, with the domestic apparel market alone accounting for $100 billion. The sector is one of the largest employment generators, supporting over 45 million people, including a vast network of MSMEs that form the backbone of this industry.
With this partnership, CMAI members will gain seamless access to bill discounting, and working capital solutions, enabling faster credit processing and improved liquidity. Through BillMart’s AI-powered financing platform, garment businesses can now convert outstanding invoices into immediate cash flow, ensuring smoother operations, better supplier relationships, and enhanced business growth.
Driving Growth&Financial AccessforMSMEs-SMEs
Mr.AshokMittal, MD&CEO, BillMart Fintech, shared his thoughts on the collaboration: “With the textile and apparel sector employing over 45 million people, MSMEs-SMEs play a critical role in both domestic supply chains and exports. Accessibility to fast and efficient funding is key to sustaining and scaling these businesses. Our AI-driven trade finance and bill discounting solutions will help CMAI members manage working capital efficiently, reduce financial stress, and fuel business expansion. By leveraging technology, we aim to make supply chain finance smarter and more accessible, ensuring liquidity support for apparel businesses at every level.”
CMAI’sVisionforFinancialInclusion
On this development, MrSantoshKatariya, President, CMAI said, “With India’s garment industry growing at a 10% CAGR, financial agility is crucial for manufacturers to stay competitive. Smooth money rotation is essential for business sustainability, and this collaboration with BillMart will provide CMAI members with innovative financial solutions to fuel expansion. The tailored offerings will empower garment manufacturers by improving liquidity, meeting market demands efficiently, and enabling local growth.This partnershipis a significant step in revolutionizing trade finance for the garment industry, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can unlock capital faster, optimize working capital, and drive long-term success.”
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- By Sujata Achary
28, Feb 2025
Medtronic and Philips Launch Initiative to Upskill 300plus Indian Clinicians in Structural Heart Imaging
Bengaluru, February 28, 2025 -Medtronic, a leader in medical technology and Philips, a leader in health technology announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in India, to educate and train cardiologists and radiologists on advanced imaging techniques for structural heart diseases. This partnership aims to upskill 300+ clinicians in multi-modality imaging such as echocardiography (echo) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), especially for End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) patients.
The training program will combine didactic sessions with hands-on experience delivered on Philips’ cutting-edge ultrasound and MRI systems, under the guidance of renowned international and Indian experts. 15 key medical institutions have been identified specializing in structural heart procedures for these educational workshops.
Speaking on the collaboration Mandeep Singh Kumar, Managing Director and Vice President of Medtronic India said, “We are excited to partner with Philips to bring this innovative training initiative to life. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to improving patient outcomes, particularly for those with chronic kidney disease and ESRD. By providing specialized training and advanced imaging solutions, we aim to equip healthcare professionals with the tools they need to enhance the precision of TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation) procedures and ultimately improve patient care.”
“At Philips, every effort we make is centered on providing better care for more people and this partnership with Medtronic is another step towards our goal. By focusing on innovation and education in structural heart imaging across India, we aim to address the rapid advancements in multi-modality imaging through continuous learning. Our objective is to empower clinicians with advanced techniques such as echocardiography and MRI, leading to more accurate diagnoses and improved care outcomes, especially for ESRD patients”, said Bharath Sesha, Managing Director, Philips Indian Subcontinent. “As India’s healthcare landscape progresses to address its high disease burden, we remain committed to enhancing clinical expertise and making a meaningful impact on patient care”.
With the rising incidence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in India, adding approximately 2.2 lakh new cases of ESRD each year, and global studies indicating that 9.5% of ESRD patients with Aortic Stenosis can benefit from advanced imaging technologies during Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), there is a critical need for advanced diagnostic solutions and specialized training for clinicians.
Medtronic transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) system recently celebrated a significant milestone: 20 years since its first-in-human procedure in 2004. This landmark achievement underscores Medtronic’s unwavering commitment to continuous innovation and commercialization in the field of cardiovascular care. Over the past two decades, Medtronic has introduced a series of groundbreaking TAVR systems in India, consistently pushing the boundaries of minimally invasive heart valve replacement and improving patient outcomes.
28, Feb 2025
Honeywell Leverages Artificial Intelligence to Transform Healthcare Testing Efficiency
INDIA, February 28, 2025 – Honeywell today announced that it has developed a new technology, Digital Holographic Microscopy, that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to help count and classify tiny particles or cells. This technology has the potential to be used across many industries where timely analysis and simplified operations are critical.
Within the healthcare industry, for example, Digital Holographic Microscopy can be used to shorten treatment time for patients receiving at-home peritoneal dialysis. These patients are susceptible to abdominal lining infections – due to the time it takes to send the samples to a lab with specialized equipment, today it can take 1-2 days to diagnose these infections, during which time the patient’s condition can often worsen if not treated.
To help address this challenge, Digital Holographic Microscopy can capture images of the patient’s dialysis fluid at the point-of-care by using a portable device with a laser, imager sensor and disposable microscope slide. These images are analyzed by AI algorithms to rapidly determine if the number and type of white blood cells indicates an infection so patients can receive appropriate treatment more quickly and effectively.
“We are seeing a growing need for solutions that can provide results that are both rapid and precise, empowering healthcare professionals to make informed decisions quickly,” said Sarah Martin, president of Honeywell Sensing Solutions. “We have invested in innovations like Digital Holographic Microscopy because of their power to make testing and analysis more accessible to patients while also improving patient care and efficiency across our healthcare system.”
Beyond clinical care, Digital Holographic Microscopy can be used in environmental applications to analyze types and amounts of various air pollutants to help achieve safer indoor air levels. It can also monitor cells and other organisms in liquid samples for quality and safety.
28, Feb 2025
Honoring a Legacy: CM Devendra Fadnavis Celebrates Shri Hashu Ji Advani’s Centenary at Vivekanand Education Society
February 28, 2025; Mumbai, India: Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis joined Vivekanand Education Society (VES), Chembur in Mumbai to commemorate the centenary of its visionary founder, Shri Hashu Ji Advani on 26th February 2025. Joining the celebrations as the Honorable Chief Guest Shri Devendra Fadnavis launched the VES Legacy Coffee Table Book on the life of Shri Hashu Ji Advani, his vision, and transformative contributions to education. The event was also graced by Mr. Kumar Taurani, Producer, Director, and Owner of Tips Industries Limited; Mr. Vivek Chandrakant Rao, Pintail Worldwide Pvt. Ltd; Mr. Sandeep Mishra, Chief Distribution Officer, Aditya Birla Sun Life and Mr. Vishal Ratanghayra – Director, Platinum Corp. Additionally, Shri Rajesh Gehani – Secretary, VES, Shri Prakash Lulla – Treasurer, VES and Shri Suresh Malkani, President, VES were also present.
The Chief Minister remembered Shri Hashu Ji Advani and praised VES for its unwavering dedication to fostering learning and academic excellence. “Today, as we gather at Vivekanand Education Society, we see Hashu Ji Advani’s vision reflected in every corner of this institution. We must not only remember his contributions but also work towards instilling his values in our society. My heartfelt congratulations to the institution, its leaders, faculty, and students for carrying forward his legacy with such dedication.” Shri Devendra Fadnavis said.
“Swami Vivekananda once said that while the 20th century may have belonged to England and America, the 21st century will belong to India. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is progressing rapidly—we have become the world’s fifth-largest economy and will soon be the third-largest. By 2047, we are on course to becoming a fully developed nation, the world’s leading economy, realizing Swami Vivekananda’s dream. Hashu Ji’s dream of empowering future generations is being realized through this institution.” he concluded.
Shri Suresh Malkani, President, VES, said, “We are honored to have with us the Honourable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji, a leader committed to good governance and progress. We launch the VES Legacy Coffee Table Book celebrating Shri Hashu Ji Advani’s inspiring journey and the transformative impact of the Vivekananda Education Society. More than a book, it is a tribute to a visionary dedicated to public service, education, and nation-building. As we unveil it, let us draw inspiration from his legacy and express our gratitude to Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji for his unwavering support of educational initiatives like VES.”
The centenary celebrations featured a variety of events, including ‘Sindhis Got Talent,’ a cultural showcase celebrating the Sindhi community heritage through music and dance. The Marathon – The Hashu Advani Legacy Run, marked the beginning of the festivities, bringing together students, alumni, and fitness enthusiasts to honor Shri Hashu Ji Advani’s vision of holistic development. A medical camp provided essential health services such as eye check-ups, a blood donation drive, a cancer awareness seminar, and a wellness session. The initiative resulted in the collection of 400 units of blood and saw participation from professors, senior students, and dignitaries, including Deputy Police Commissioner Shri Suhas Warke, IPS.
28, Feb 2025
Build India Infra Awards 2025: A Grand Celebration of India’s Best in Infrastructure and Development
New Delhi, February 28, 2025: The Second Edition of the Build India Infra Awards 2025 honored India’s most outstanding infrastructure projects, recognizing impact, innovation, and sustainability across key sectors. With significant participation, the awards highlighted engineering marvels that are shaping India’s journey toward world-class infrastructure. Primus Partners, India’s largest home-grown consulting services firm, served as the Knowledge Partner, ensuring a rigorous selection process. The nominees presented their projects and this was followed by two rounds of deliberation among a distinguished jury comprising of IAS officers, MDs, and CEOs of leading companies to evaluate them. The awards were founded by Shri Vaibhav Dange (Public Policy Expert on Infrastructure, Green Fuels & Sustainable Mobility), who welcomed the guests and celebrated the achievers.
Emphasizing India’s rapid growth, Shri Vaibhav Dange highlighted that the country now has the third-largest road network in the world, while its aviation sector is set to become the third-largest globally. The Build India Infra Awards 2025 recognize and celebrate excellence in infrastructure development, spotlighting 4 key sectors from Edition 1 2024 viz. roads and highways, railways, ports, airports and 3 new sectors introduced in this Edition 2 namely urban transport, water infrastructure, power transmission that have made significant contributions to India’s growth story. In addition to these 7 sectors, Edition 2 of Build India Infra Awards has instituted a special category – “Trailblazing infrastructure” which aims to provide a platform to showcase projects which are the ”Pride of India”.
He noted that no one was better suited to present the aviation category awards than Shri Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu – Minister of Civil Aviation, who is leading India’s aviation transformation.
Shri Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Minister of Civil Aviation, who attended the event highlighted India’s rapid aviation growth, stating: “Over the past five years, ₹91,000 crore has been invested in aviation, expanding connectivity across India. The UDAAN scheme has added 88 new airports, enabling 4 crore more passengers to travel. By 2047, India will be the world’s No.1 aviation market. With 26 projects worth ₹8,000 crore underway, we are transforming the sector, expanding into Tier-3 cities, and ensuring inclusive growth. The NDA government is not just the National Democratic Alliance, it is the National Development Alliance, committed to building a stronger, more connected India.”
The event witnessed experts from diverse sectors of Indian infrastructure coming together to celebrate excellence and innovation. It brought together distinguished leaders, policymakers, and industry stalwarts who have played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s infrastructure landscape.
The award ceremony was also graced by Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry, who virtually addressed the audience, stating: “These awards celebrate excellence in infrastructure, recognizing not just projects but also the businesses driving India’s growth. Every milestone we achieve reflects our nation’s bold aspirations. Through initiatives like ‘Gati Shakti’, we are making transportation seamless and cost-effective. With ₹11.21 lakh crore allocated for capital expenditure (capex), in Union Budget 2025, India is laying the foundation for a stronger, more connected future. Let’s work together to create a better India for tomorrow. As we march towards Viksit Bharat 2047, our collective efforts will shape a nation that stands tall on the global stage.”
In another virtual address, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal Khattar emphasized the impact of the PM Gati Shakti initiative, stating that it is driving the nation’s progress. He lauded the awards as a great initiative that promotes innovation and sustainability while congratulating all nominees for their contributions. Minister of Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari echoed similar sentiments, expressing his pleasure at being part of the event and highlighting India’s position as the world’s third-largest economy, urging continued efforts toward growth. Quoting John F. Kennedy, he reiterated that “America’s roads are not good because it is rich; America is rich because its roads are good.” He emphasized the government’s strong commitment to infrastructure development, with increased budget allocations to generate jobs and boost economic progress. He also stressed the importance of aligning knowledge with international standards, reaffirming his dedication to advancing the sector.
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in his virtual address, stated:“The Build India Infra Awards 2025 celebrates the leaders and innovators shaping India’s infrastructure. Under Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s leadership, India is modernizing ports, inland waterways, and shipping through initiatives like Sagarmala, PM Gati Shakti, and Maritime Vision 2047.”
Davinder Sandhu, Co-Founder & Chairperson of Primus Partners, delivered the vote of thanks to Shri Naidu and commended the awards for evolving with India’s infrastructure landscape. He stated, “This year, I have seen some remarkable new elements in these awards, reflecting the sector’s transformation. With the government’s capital expenditure (capex) allocation taking shape, we are witnessing a shift in how projects are being executed. I congratulate all the captains of industry for their contributions to nation-building.”
Adding to the event’s prestige was an esteemed jury panel, led by Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, who stated, “For India to grow from a $4 trillion to a $30 trillion economy, we need world-class expressways, highways, and metros. With solar capacity scaled 31 times and 40 million houses built, India is executing projects at an unprecedented scale. Platforms like the Build India Infra Awards are key to driving this excellence.”
The jury comprised top bureaucrats, industry leaders, and infrastructure experts. Their extensive expertise ensured a rigorous and transparent selection process, reinforcing the credibility of the awards. Davinder Sandhu, Co-Founder & Chairperson, Primus Partners and Vaibhav Dange, a Public Policy Expert on Infrastructure, Green Fuels & Sustainable Mobility, further strengthened the discourse on sustainable and futuristic infrastructure development.
The event was a landmark occasion that recognized and honored the efforts of individuals and organizations that have contributed to nation-building through pioneering infrastructure projects. With thought-provoking discussions, networking opportunities, and a shared vision for India’s growth, the evening reinforced the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and thought leaders to drive the country’s infrastructure forward.
As Knowledge Partners, Primus Partners spearheaded the conceptualization and execution of the nomination and jury process for the Build India Infra Awards 2025, ensuring a rigorous and transparent selection. Designed around the three core principles—People, Process, and Product—the jury was presented with a robust framework for holistic assessment, a crucial step in identifying India’s most iconic infrastructure projects.
28, Feb 2025
Nasscom and Karnataka Innovation Society Forge Alliance to Strengthen IP Ecosystem in Karnataka
Bengaluru, February 28, 2025: In a strategic partnership aimed at fostering innovation and intellectual property (IP) growth within Karnataka’s burgeoning tech sector, Nasscom and the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), Department of Electronics, IT, BT, and S&T, Government of Karnataka, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The MoU is signed between Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), Department of Electronics, IT, BT, Government of Karnataka and National Association of Software & Services Companies (nasscom). The MOU outlines a joint commitment to enhance IP awareness, protection, and commercialization within Karnataka’s IT and ITeS industry. This strategic collaboration aims to strengthen the state’s position as a leading innovation hub, boost IP creation, and drive economic growth through enhanced technology development and commercialization.
As part of the MoU with KITS, the collaboration will focus on:
- Establishing and managing an IP Enablement Program to boost innovation and patent filings in Karnataka through structured mentorship and support mechanisms
- Delivering comprehensive technical support through IP mentorship, awareness workshops and capacity building initiatives across educational institutions
- Creating supportive ecosystem for IP growth through strategic industry partnerships, policy frameworks and subsidized legal consultation
- Providing necessary infrastructure and administrative support while monitoring program success through patent metrics and inter-departmental coordination
The Nasscom IP Enablement Program, a key component of this MoU, will provide structured mentorship and resources to Karnataka’s IT industry, with a special focus on startups and SMEs, to strengthen their IP management and innovation capabilities. This initiative aims to accelerate patent filings and drive technological advancement across the state.
The Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and Information Technology & Biotechnology, Sri. Priyank M Kharge highlighted Government of Karnataka’s focus & commitment on developing a conducive ecosystem for the technology sector which would nurture innovation. Karnataka has continued to remain the leader in innovation for the technology sector and necessary steps are being undertaken to ensure that the state retains this position, the Minister remarked. He said “ This collaboration with Nasscom marks a step in this direction, aimed at strengthening the tech industry in Karnataka by offering structured support & mentorship on intellectual property by the seamless collaboration between industry, academia, and the Government to drive innovation across the state.”
Speaking on the collaboration, Rajesh Nambiar, President, Nasscom, said, “The partnership with KITS underscores the industry’s commitment to nurturing innovation and strengthening the IP landscape in India. By working closely with the Karnataka government, we aim to empower businesses of all sizes to protect and leverage their intellectual property, driving economic growth and establishing India as a global leader in innovation.”
28, Feb 2025
MSU Signs MoUs with Government of Assam to Boost Global Employment and Advance Semic
Guwahati/Mumbai, February 28, 2025: Medhavi Skills University (MSU) is proud to announce the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Assam to enhance the employability of the youth of Assam. Under these strategic collaborations, MSU aims to establish a Skill Hub for Overseas Employment and a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Semiconductor Technology.
The MoUs were signed at the prestigious ADVANTAGE ASSAM 2.0 Infrastructure & Investment Summit 2025, which was inaugurated by Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Representing MSU, Mr. Kuldip Sarma, Co-Founder and Pro-Chancellor, signed the agreement alongside Shri B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Assam in the august presence of Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Honourable Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Prasanta Phukan, Minister of Power, Skill, Employment & Entrepreneurship, Medical Education & Research; Shri Krishnendu Paul, Minister of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Fishery, Public Works Roads; and Dr. Ranoj Pegu, Minister of School Education, Higher Education, Tribal Affairs (Plain), Government of Assam.
Under this collaboration, the OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT HUB will focus on empowering Assams youth with global skills and international career opportunities, paving the way for greater employability in international markets. The Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Semiconductor Technology aims to give a boost to Indias Semiconductor Mission and strengthen the state’s semiconductor ecosystem, positioning Assam as an emerging leader in advanced technology and innovation.
The signing of these MoUs is a testament to MSUs commitment to building a skilled, digital, and future-ready Assam. By integrating world-class skill development initiatives with industry partnerships, these projects will create new employment pathways, foster entrepreneurship, and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
Advantage Assam is the flagship investment and infrastructure summit of Assam designed to position the state as the gateway to South and Southeast Asia. By leveraging its strategic location, abundant resources, and growing infrastructure, Assam is fast emerging as a preferred destination for investment and skill development. Medhavi Skills University is honored to be a part of this transformative journey and remains dedicated to promoting innovation, education, and employment opportunities in the region.
28, Feb 2025
98 Percent of Indian Business Leaders Accelerate AI Adoption, but Talent Shortage Persists: LinkedIn
India, February 28, 2025: Two years on, generative AI has evolved from a buzzword into a business essential, with leaders across India embracing its potential. According to new research by LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network, 98% of business leaders in India say helping their organizations speed up AI adoption is their strategic priority in 2025. However, finding talent with the right skills remains a challenge.
Finding the right mix of AI and human skills is a challenge for nearly 3 in 5 recruiters in India
LinkedIn research shows that 54% of HR professionals in India report that only half, or fewer, of the job applications they receive meet all required and preferred qualifications. Finding candidates with the right technical (61%) and soft skills (57%) remains their biggest hiring challenge. The hardest-to-find skills in India include technical/IT skills such as software development, engineering (44%), AI skills (34%), and soft skills like communication and problem-solving (33%).
Companies are exercising ‘selective hiring’ in 2025
HR professionals in India also state they receive too many applications (47%) from candidates who are not fit for the role (41%), and are hiring more selectively in 2025. More than half of HR professionals in India say they would only consider reaching out to (55%) and hiring (54%) candidates who meet 80% or more of job qualifications.
Ruchee Anand, India Country Head, Talent & Learning Solutions, LinkedIn said, “AI is reshaping how we hire and develop talent, but the real unlock isn’t just adopting AI’s making it work for the business. Too often, companies pour resources into AI tools without the right talent to unlock their full potential, turning a game-changing opportunity into a missed one. To break this cycle, businesses need to approach hiring with a skills-first mindset because while AI will be the tool that unlocks innovation, it’s human skills like creativity, communication, and collaboration that will help companies truly stay ahead of change.”
Leaders are doubling down on upskilling their workforce
More than 8 in 10 (84%) HR professionals in India rank helping employees build new skills as a top priority for 2025, with a strong focus on upskilling in AI (84%) and essential soft skills like communication and collaboration (82%). This sentiment is echoed by all (100%) surveyed L&D professionals in India who agree that soft skills (like creativity, curiosity, and communication) are becoming just as critical as technical expertise. Nearly half (48%) of Indian leaders also say that investing in learning and development for AI training will be key to accelerating adoption.
LinkedIn is introducing new AI-powered tools to help recruiters spend more time on their most impactful work
As companies navigate a cautious economic landscape, LinkedIn is introducing new AI-powered tools to help recruiters focus on the most strategic, people-centric tasks for their jobs:
* Nearly 2 in 5 (37%) of HR professionals in India spend 1-3 hours daily sifting through job applications, and more than 3 in 5 (64%) believe AI-powered tools can make hiring faster and easier. LinkedIn’s new Hiring Assistant is designed to take on a recruiter’s most repetitive, time-consuming tasks so they can spend more time on their most impactful work like advising hiring managers, connecting with candidates, and creating exceptional candidate experiences. “I find the speed and delivery of candidates good and believe LinkedIn’s Hiring Assistant will continue to improve the team’s productivity,” said Sachin Borde, Global Talent Attraction Leader, IBM
* 7 in 10 (71%) of HR professionals in India cite difficulties accessing tailored learning resources. LinkedIn Learning’s new AI-powered coaching feature helps learners build soft skills through interactive, real-world scenarios using text or voice. It helps them gain confidence in workplace conversations like performance reviews and feedback discussions, and learners receive actionable, personalized feedback at the end of each practice session.
C-suites and CHROs on the outlook for work in 2025 (C-suite research) Methodology:
C-suite (all up) Methodology:
Global research of 1,991 C-suite executives (Chief Executive Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Revenue Officer, and Chief Technology Officer) in nine countries (Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, United States, United Kingdom) working in businesses with 1,000+ employees. Fieldwork was conducted by YouGov between Nov 26 to Dec 13, 2024.
CHRO Methodology:
Global research of 300+ Chief Human Resources Officers in nine countries (Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, United States, United Kingdom) working in businesses with 1,000+ employees. Fieldwork was conducted by YouGov between Nov 26 to Dec 13 2024.
Workplace Learning Report Methodology:
Survey data
The LinkedIn Learning 2025 Workplace Learning Report surveyed 937 L&D and HR professionals with L&D responsibilities who have some influence on budget decisions and 679 learners. Surveyed geographies include: North America (United States, Canada); South America (Brazil); Asia-Pacific (Australia, New Zealand, India, Japan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, Hong Kong); and Europe (United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, France, Germany, Austria).
LinkedIn platform insights
All data reflects aggregated LinkedIn member activity as of September 2024. Behavioral insights for this report were derived from the billions of data points generated by 1 billion members, 14 million jobs, and 5 million profile updates per minute. Specific analyses:
Future of Recruiting Report Methodology:
Survey data
LinkedIn Research surveyed 1,271 recruiting professionals in management seniority roles or higher (1,019 corporate recruiting pros, 252 search and staffing pros). Survey respondents are LinkedIn members who were selected to participate based on information in their LinkedIn profile and qualified based on survey responses. This survey was conducted in four languages across 23 countries in September 2024.
Platform insights
Platform insights for this report were derived from the billions of data points generated by the 1 billion members in over 200 countries on LinkedIn today. Talent acquisition (TA) professionals are LinkedIn members with a recruiting role. To measure the growth of TA pros learning AI skills, we compared the number of skills explicitly added by members over 12 months (October 2023 to September 2024) against the previous 12-month period (October 2022 to September 2023). AI skills include AI literacy skills, which made up the great majority of what TA pros were learning (as opposed to AI engineering skills).
B2B Data from Talent Campaign Methodology
Consumer and Global HR Professionals Research: This research was conducted Censuswide between November 27 to December 16, 2024, among 22,010 consumer respondents and 8,035 global HR professionals between November 28 to December 18, 2024. Markets involved included: the UK, USA, France, Germany, India, Spain, Brazil, Ireland, the Netherlands, Singapore, Japan, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Australia, Indonesia, and Italy. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society which is based on the ESOMAR principles. Censuswide are members of the British Polling Council.
28, Feb 2025
Bengaluru GAFX 2025: Exploring the Future of Immersion with Government of Karnataka and ABAI
Mumbai / Bengaluru, 28th February 2025: Bengaluru GAFX 2025, India’s largest and most influential Bengaluru GAFX 2025 Conference, commenced today at The Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru, and will run from February 27th to March 1st, 2025. Organized by the Department of Electronics, IT & BT, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with ABAI, the event reinforces Bengaluru’s position as the world’s leading hub for AVGC-XR and a key driver of India’s global leadership in immersive media and entertainment.
The grand inauguration witnessed the esteemed presence of Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, and IT & BT, Government of Karnataka, alongside key industry leaders and policymakers driving the future of immersive storytelling. The event had the privilege of welcoming Mr. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, as the Special Guest of Honour.
Among the distinguished attendees were Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson & Founder, Biocon Limited; Shri Rizwan Arshad, Member of Karnataka Legislative Assembly; Shri Sharath Bachegowda, MLA & Chairman, KEONICS; Mr. Marc Lamy, Consul General of France, Bengaluru; Ms. Hilary McGeachy, Consul General of Australia, Bengaluru; Mr. Alfonso Tagliaferri, Consul General of Italy, Bengaluru; Mr. Nitish Mittersain, CEO & MD, Nazara Technologies; Mr. Ashish Kulkarni, Founder & CEO, Punnaryug Artvision Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T, Government of Karnataka; Mr. Sai Srinivas Kiran Garimella, Co-founder, MPL; Shri Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur, IAS, Director, Department of Electronics, IT & BT, Government of Karnataka; Shri Daljeet Kumar, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T, Government of Karnataka; and Mr. Biren Ghose, Chairman, Bengaluru GAFX & President, ABAI.
With the theme “Future of Immersion: EXPERIENCE. EXPLORE. DISRUPT.”, GAFX 2025, champions its commitment to furthering the frontiers of creativity and technology. Attendees will experience the power of immersive technologies in storytelling, from real-time rendering breakthroughs to the transformative potential of virtual and augmented reality. As a premier platform, GAFX 2025 will bring together global thought leaders, visionary creatives, and cutting-edge innovations, fostering collaboration and shaping the future of the industry.
A patron of Bengaluru GAFX 2025, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Govt. of Karnataka said “This event holds significance not just for the government of Karnataka but for the entire nation. Our professionals are not just contributing to global projects—they are leading them, bringing unique perspectives and unmatched expertise to the forefront. In animation and visual effects, Indian artists are instrumental in delivering cutting-edge visuals for domestic and international productions. Our contributions have garnered global acclaim, positioning India as a hub of high-quality animation and VFX services.
Despite the central government’s 28% GST, we remain the fastest-growing market in the gaming sector, achieving an impressive 23% year-on-year growth. By the end of the 2024 financial year, we are set to reach $3.8 billion. Looking ahead, I hope to see Karnataka host its own national e-sports festival this year, with the vision of creating the country’s—and possibly Asia’s—largest e-sports event.”
“Karnataka has always been at the forefront of technology and digital innovation, and our leadership in AVGC-XR continues to shape the industry. Home to over 300 AVGC studios and 15,000+ professionals, Karnataka contributes significantly to India’s digital content revolution. We were the first state to introduce an AVGC-XR policy in 2012, and our third five-year policy, announced last year, strengthened this sector with production grants, tax incentives, and skill development initiatives. With India’s 500 million gamers, Karnataka leads with the highest number of gaming startups, positioning Bengaluru as the hub for next-gen game development. Our AVGC-XR fund, the first of its kind in India, supports startups and SMEs with investments up to ₹2 crore. Additionally, we are setting up India’s first AVGC-XR Park, offering production studios, incubation spaces, and research facilities. By 2029, we aim for a 30% increase in operational efficiency, a 20% boost in creative output, and a 25% expansion in digital marketing reach. GAFX 2025 reflects this vision, bringing together industry leaders, professionals, and students. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and strengthen Karnataka’s position as the global capital for AVGC-XR excellence.” – said Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Mr. Biren Ghose, Chairman, Bengaluru GAFX & President, ABAI said, “Storytelling is evolving beyond screens into immersive experiences that redefine how we engage with content. Just as astronomers explore the cosmos, we are visionaries shaping the visual language of tomorrow. Disruption isn’t an obstacle—it’s a catalyst, much like black holes and supernovae giving birth to new creations in the universe. Bengaluru stands at the heart of this transformation, where technology, artistry, and innovation unite to take India to the world and bring the world to India. From animation and gaming to AR, VR, and beyond, we are forging global alliances, building billion-dollar franchises, and nurturing the talent that will drive the next era of entertainment. This isn’t just ambition—it’s a roadmap. The seeds are sown, and the wave of change is here. Welcome to the future of immersion.”
Bengaluru GAFX is a premier event in the AVGC industry, serving as a vital platform for collaboration between Indian and global talent. The event brings together leading international and domestic studios, along with industry veterans, to showcase some of the most acclaimed and high-profile titles. By fostering cross-industry synergy, GAFX continues to drive innovation and excellence in the animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics landscape.
Key Highlights of Bengaluru GAFX 2025
- Unveiling a Landmark Collaboration: Cine star Rana Daggubati, known for his role in Baahubali and a strong advocate for Indian storytelling, will unveil an exciting partnership between Zebu Animation and Tinkle, bringing India’s iconic comics to life through cutting-edge animation.
- India Pavilion: A first-of-its-kind showcase of AVGC talent from across Karnataka, Rajasthan, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Assam, fostering regional co-production and collaboration.
- Esports National Championship: India’s top 4 esports teams from different zones will battle it out in the Counter-Strike 2 grand finale, bringing high-energy gaming action to GAFX 2025.
- Investor Connect: Over 25 leading investors will engage with 50 AVGC-XR startups, offering exclusive opportunities for funding and mentorship.
- Spotlight on Indian Comics: Tinkle, Amar Chitra Katha, Raj Comics, and Pran Studios will discuss the future of Indian comics, their potential to generate original IPs, and their influence on the media industry.
- AI & AVGC-XR Convergence: Experts from Deloitte, Autodesk, AMD, Nvidia, Myelin Foundry, and Adobe will explore the impact of AI in content creation, virtual production, and immersive experiences.
- Startups Innovation Zone: AVGC startups from Karnataka’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) will showcase groundbreaking work, offering a glimpse into the future of the AVGC-XR industry.
- Strengthening International Alliances: The Karnataka Government will establish a Global Innovation Alliance (GIA), bringing together France, Australia, the UK, Scotland, Uzbekistan, and Italy to foster global collaborations in AVGC-XR.
28, Feb 2025
Next-Gen Vehicle Protection: Hik-Connect 6 Upgrades Elevate Security on Wheels
The latest enhancements extend the reach of ‘Team Mode’ – which already provides security management across multiple physical locations – to buses, taxis, trucks, and other vehicles. Other improvements include the addition of Motion Detection 2.0, which brings deep learning intelligence to the system, better alarm video backup, and more.
Here’s a brief overview of some key enhancements:
• Motion Detection 2.0 delivers intelligent person and vehicle search
In response to requests from the user community, Hik-Connect Team Mode now connects directly with Hikvision cameras equipped with the Motion Detection 2.0 to enable this feature. It combines the widely applied motion detection function with deep-learning algorithms that differentiate people and vehicles from other moving objects. With Team Mode, you can rapidly search through multi-channel recordings to locate the events that matter. This functionality is also available to users of Q/K Series NVRs (with firmware version 4.74.000 or later) with stream encryption activated.
• Integration with Hikvision’s mobile onboard security system
By connecting to Hikvision’s mobile onboard security system, Hik-Connect Team Mode can now be used to provide remote security management of buses, taxis, trucks, and other types of vehicles. The interior of vehicles, as well as their surroundings and precise location, can now be remotely monitored in real-time. You can view vehicle status updates, manage driver permissions, link vehicles to drivers, create driver groups, and more. You can also generate and export reports from Hik-Connect 6 for further analysis and decision-making.
• Simplified self-service license activation
With this update, activating licenses in Hik-Connect Team Mode is now a more straightforward, self-managed process, eliminating the need for installer assistance and delivering a much better user experience.
• Cloud-based backup and sharing of alarm videos
You can now access and share your alarm event videos effortlessly via a web portal, using URLs. Recipients can view these videos without needing to log into a Hik-Connect account. And the best part? This service is now provided free of charge.
