10, Oct 2024
NTPC among the Forbes World’s Best Employers 2024
New Delhi, Oct 10th 2024: NTPC Limited, India’s largest power utility, has been recognized as one of the “World’s Best Employers 2024” in the Forbes World’s Best Employers 2024 List released on 8th October, 2024.
NTPC is among the Top 500 companies in the world in this prestigious World ranking and is the only Indian Maharatna CPSE to figure in the list.
The World’s Best Employers are chosen each year (by Forbes in partnership with market research firm Statista), based on globally administered independent surveys completed by employees in over 50 countries around the world. The top employers are identified based on over 300,000 employee evaluations.
The above is a recognition of NTPC’s “People before PLF (Plant Load Factor)” approach, its excellence in the development and management of its Human Resources through continuous process improvement, creating a caring, learning and engaging workplace, focusing on employee well-being and care, and creating a meaningful, collaborative employee experience by putting the needs of employees first and adopting people practices aligned strategically to business needs.
It is a celebration of NTPC‘s constantly evolving and holistic talent strategy and people practices that are in line with business and workforce requirements and work to create a meaningful environment that fosters business excellence.
NTPC has been at the forefront of adopting and institutionalizing progressive and best HR practices in a proactive manner, which have been recognized by various prestigious forums at national and international levels.
This achievement demonstrates NTPC‘s commitment to scaling new heights of success and emerging as a strong force in the global arena. It is also a testament to the dedication and hard work of every member of the NTPC family and symbolizes the shared vision and relentless drive of the NTPC Family towards excellence.
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- By Rabindra
10, Oct 2024
Air India Express Celebrates Durga Puja with ‘Jamdani’ Tail Art on New Aircraft
10-October-2024, Kolkata: Joining the festivities of Durga Puja in West Bengal, Air India Express showcased its brand-new Boeing 737-8 aircraft with tail art inspired by the traditional “Jamdani” design at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata. Jamdani is a renowned pattern from Bengal, known for its delicate handloom creations, typically featuring intricate floral, vine, leaf, and geometric motifs. Deeply rooted in Bengali culture, Jamdani plays a significant role in weddings, festivals, and other celebrations.
To commemorate the special occasion, Air India Express employees dressed in traditional Jamdani attire welcomed the aircraft, registered VT-BXG, to Kolkata. The aircraft operated on the Kolkata – Jaipur route.
Another new aircraft of Air India Express, registered VT-BXU, which recently joined the fleet, features a vibrant Kantha design on its tail. Kantha, also from Bengal, originated as a method of repurposing old saris and clothes into quilts and blankets. The designs often portray everyday life, folk stories, and nature, showcasing the craftsmanship of local artisans.
Since launching its refreshed brand identity in October 2023, Air India Express has continued its unique tradition of featuring a variable tailfin design inspired by the rich art and crafts heritage of the country, with a unique design on the tail of every new aircraft. The airline has already added 35 new aircraft to its fleet since last year, and now has a total fleet size of 89 narrowbody Airbus and Boeing aircraft. With 217 weekly flights from West Bengal, Air India Express remains dedicated to providing personalised product and service offerings with a sense of unique Indian warmth, while celebrating the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Kolkata:
Air India Express operates 154 weekly flights, connecting Kolkata to 12 domestic destinations: Agartala, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Imphal, Jaipur, Kochi, Surat, and Varanasi. The airline also offers convenient one-stop connectivity to 14 domestic destinations: Amritsar, Ayodhya, Bombay, Delhi, Goa, Gwalior, Indore, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Pune, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada, and Vishakhapatnam. Internationally, it connects passengers to Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Kuwait, Muscat, Riyadh, Sharjah, and Singapore.
Bagdogra:
With 63 weekly flights, Air India Express connects Bagdogra to five domestic destinations: Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Additionally, the airline provides convenient one-stop connectivity to 19 domestic destinations: Amritsar, Bhubaneshwar, Goa, Guwahati, Gwalior, Imphal, Indore, Jaipur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Lucknow, Mangaluru, Pune, Ranchi, Surat, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Varanasi, Vijayawada, and Vishakhapatnam. Internationally, it connects Bagdogra to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dammam, Jeddah, Muscat, Sharjah, and Singapore.
10, Oct 2024
GADDA CO Onboards Shaktimaan Fame Mukesh Khanna as Brand Ambassador
New Delhi, October 10, 2024: GADDA CO, one of the leading names in the mattress and bedding industry announces the onboarding of the legendary actor Mukesh Khanna, India’s first and only superhero known for his iconic roles as Shaktimaan and Bhishma from Mahabharat, as the new face of the brand. This exciting collaboration marks a new chapter for GADDA CO., as the brand continues to emphasize its commitment to providing quality sleep solutions, including mattresses, waterproof mattress protectors, pillows, and pillow protectors.
Mukesh Khanna shared his excitement about the collaboration, “I have always believed in the power of good health, and quality sleep is at the foundation of that. GADDA CO has proven to be a brand that cares deeply about offering products that enhance the quality of life for people across India. Their dedication to quality, comfort, and durability aligns with my personal values, and I am excited to be a part of this journey, whether it’s the mattresses or the protectors, their attention to detail in crafting products that support good sleep is truly commendable.”
GADDA CO, under the house of the brands – Baby & Mom Retail, has established itself as a trusted name for delivering exceptional sleep products that combine comfort and durability. This partnership with Mukesh Khanna signals the brand’s continued focus on expanding its reach and strengthening its position in the Indian market.
Shish Kharesiya, Founder and CEO of House of Brands – Baby & Mom Retail, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, “Having Mukesh Khanna on board as our brand ambassador is an honor. His association with GADDA CO perfectly resonates with our brand’s values of providing reliable, long-lasting products. We are excited to take our brand to new heights with him by our side. At GADDA CO, we believe that everyone deserves a restful, comfortable sleep, and with Mukesh Khanna as our ambassador, we aim to communicate this message more effectively to our audience.”
This collaboration marks a strategic move for GADDA CO to not only boost brand recognition but also foster a deeper connection with Indian consumers by associating with a beloved figure like Mukesh Khanna. Together, they aim to redefine the concept of comfort, ensuring that every customer enjoys a peaceful and rejuvenating sleep experience.
10, Oct 2024
Pulse Ka Pandal: DS Group Unites Four Festivals on a Single Platform
New Delhi, October 10, 2024: Pass Pass Pulse, India’s favourite candy with a tangy twist, from the stable of the Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a multi-business corporation and a leading FMCG Conglomerate is set to bring the joy of festivities from every corner of India with its latest ‘Pulse Ka Pandal’ campaign. Pulse Ka Pandal is a signature annual campaign from the brand, celebrating the festive season with a uniquely tangy flair. This year, the innovative initiative will feature a microsite where users can immerse themselves in the cultural richness of our diverse festivals.
From the energetic celebrations of Garba in the West to the vibrant Ramleela in the North, and the spirited Mysore Mela in the South to the lively Durga Puja in the East, Pulse Ka Pandal is making it possible for everyone to participate in the essence of these traditional festivities digitally. The microsite offers four irresistible activities, from interactive AR filters to gamified experiences, each designed to celebrate a specific festival.
For Garba, participants can snap selfies and create reels with Pulse Candy’s Garba pandal AR filter to share their festive spirit. For Ramleela enthusiasts, there’s a thrilling game where players must dodge arrows while collecting Pulse candies. In Mysore Mela, players will race against time to arrange products quickly based on a final frame. Lastly, for Durga Puja, participants can select the colours for the Durga pandal and create their personalised greeting cards to send to loved ones.
Speaking about the campaign, Mr Ashish Bhargava, General Manager, Marketing, Confectionery, DS Group said, “Over the years, Pulse Ka Pandal has established itself as an integral part of India’s festive landscape, resonating with the diverse cultures and traditions across the country. This year, we are thrilled to introduce, for the first time, a single platform where participants can engage in four different festivals with excitement and interaction. By incorporating interactive activities, we aim to enhance the festive experience while remaining true to our roots and the vibrant spirit of Indian festivals.”
To further engage the audience, the microsite will enable the participants to win exciting online gift vouchers.
10, Oct 2024
Quick Heal Launches AntiFraud.AI: India’s First All-in-One Fraud Prevention Solution
Mumbai, October 10th, 2024: Quick Heal Technologies Limited, a global cybersecurity solutions provider, today announced the launch of India’s first fraud prevention solution – AntiFraud.AI. This ‘Made in India’ solution opens a whole new category revolutionizing digital safety against the escalating threat of financial frauds which is impacting everyone including the most tech-savvy.
The launch of AntiFraud.AI comes at a crucial time when financial fraud has reached alarming levels. According to the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre, the approximate amount that Indians lost to fraudsters between January to April 2024 stood at ₹1750 crores. The gravity of the situation is further underlined by the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, suffered losses were reported through over 740,000 complaints. These staggering figures highlight the urgent need for comprehensive fraud prevention solutions, a need that Quick Heal’s AntiFraud.AI aims to address head-on.
Commenting on this momentous occasion, Vishal Salvi, Chief Executive Officer at Quick Heal Technologies Limited, said, “With AntiFraud.AI, we are not merely unveiling a new solution but, establishing a new category of fraud prevention. Leveraging over 30 years of industry experience and operating India’s largest malware analysis facility, Seqrite Labs, we have a deep understanding of consumer fraud and the dynamic threat environment with real-world challenges. Just as we tackled the core issue of viruses with our Antivirus solutions in 1995, we now take upon ourselves the responsibility to address the growing risk of fraud, which not only causes financial loss but also inflicts emotional distress. At Quick Heal, our commitment is to provide a solution that prevents fraud for all users, regardless of their technical expertise. This solution empowers individuals to safeguard themselves and their loved one from falling victim to scams. AntiFraud.AI reiterates our dedication to securing India’s future, allowing every citizen to participate in the digital economy with confidence. Our goal is to create a robust and secure digital ecosystem that will drive India’s growth and prosperity for years to come”
AntiFraud.AI boasts a wide range of robust features designed to enhance user security and safeguard sensitive information. Key Features Include:
Risk Profile
o Assess your risk level with actionable recommendations to reduce exposure to fraud.
Fraud Call Alert
o Alerts you on receiving a potentially fraudulent call.
Scam Protection
o Employs sophisticated algorithms to identify and block phishing links and fraudulent websites, enhancing online security.
Banking Fraud Alert
o Utilizes artificial intelligence to detect and alert users to potential banking fraud attempts in real-time.
Fraud Protect Buddy
o Empowers users to safeguard their loved ones by sharing alerts and security tips, specifically addressing the vulnerabilities of less tech-savvy individuals.
Fraud App Detector
o Continuously scans for malicious applications and delivers real-time alerts about potentially harmful apps.
Secure Payments
o Ensures a safe environment for online transactions and monitors for suspicious activity throughout the payment process.
Unauthorized Access Alert
o Notifies users if their device’s microphone or camera is activated without consent, protecting against covert surveillance.
Dark Web Monitoring
o Actively scans the dark web for compromised sensitive data and provides timely notifications if users’ information is found.
Call Forwarding Alert
o Alerts you when your calls are being redirected without your consent,
The solution also offers Screen share alert, Payee Name Announcer, Spy Alert, File Vault and Browsing Protection and more.
In addition to these, The Information Hub feature provides access to in-depth research and fraud intelligence from Seqrite Labs, India’s largest malware analysis facility, keeping users informed about evolving threats with the latest fraud trends and prevention tips. This feature allows users to access Quick Heal’s extensive domain expertise and knowledge. Furthermore, the Victim Support feature offers step-by-step guidance for those who fall victim to fraud, aiding in recovery and necessary actions. Together, these elements create a robust defense against fraud and enhance overall digital security.
Commenting on this momentous occasion, Vishal Salvi, Chief Executive Officer at Quick Heal Technologies Limited, said, “With AntiFraud.AI, we are not merely unveiling a new solution but, establishing a new category of fraud prevention. Leveraging over 30 years of industry experience and operating India’s largest malware analysis facility, Seqrite Labs, we have a deep understanding of consumer fraud and the dynamic threat environment with real-world challenges. Just as we tackled the core issue of viruses with our Antivirus solutions in 1995, we now take upon ourselves the responsibility to address the growing risk of fraud, which not only causes financial loss but also inflicts emotional distress. At Quick Heal, our commitment is to provide a solution that prevents fraud for all users, regardless of their technical expertise. This solution empowers individuals to safeguard themselves and their loved one from falling victim to scams. AntiFraud.AI reiterates our dedication to securing India’s future, allowing every citizen to participate in the digital economy with confidence. Our goal is to create a robust and secure digital ecosystem that will drive India’s growth and prosperity for years to come”
The seamless design of Quick Heal AntiFraud.AI prioritizes user privacy and is available on Android, iOS, and Windows platforms, catering to diverse user preferences. While AntiFraud.AI focuses on preventing digital fraud executed through deception and manipulation, traditional antivirus software remains essential for detecting and removing malware such as viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Users are encouraged to maintain both AntiFraud.AI and antivirus protection for comprehensive security.
Adding to this year’s launch, Quick Heal’s Version 25 builds on the recent recognition of Quick Heal Antivirus as the safest banking antivirus by AVLab Poland Cybersecurity Foundation. This release introduces significant improvements to its Anti-Ransomware engine and fraud prevention features. The integration of AntiFraud.AI into Quick Heal Total Security Version 25 delivers holistic protection by combining advanced fraud prevention technology with traditional antivirus functions.
Quick Heal AntiFraud.AI is designed to work alongside any antivirus solution, ensuring both can operate simultaneously. For Windows users of Quick Heal Total Security Version 25, fraud prevention capabilities are now built-in as well.
With this launch, Quick Heal Technologies Limited reaffirms its position as a leader in cybersecurity, committed to providing top-tier protection against advanced cyber threats and fraud. The company invites users to elevate their digital security by downloading AntiFraud.AI and joining the movement towards a fraud-free digital India.
10, Oct 2024
National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli Celebrates Foundation Day with Great Fervor
New Delhi/ NCR/ Kundli: National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management, Kundli (NIFTEM-K), celebrated its Foundation Day on 7th October for the first time since its inception with immense enthusiasm and grandeur. The event was graced by the distinguished presence of Smt. Anita Praveen, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. The celebrations were also attended by Professor (Dr.) MN Doja, Director, IIIT, Sonipat, and Mr. Vivek Chandra, CEO of LT Foods Ltd., as the Guests of Honor. Dr. Harinder Singh Oberoi, Director, NIFTEM-K, warmly welcomed the guests and audience.
In her address, Smt. Anita Praveen emphasized the critical role of institutions like NIFTEM in strengthening the food processing sector and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of food processing. She lauded NIFTEM’s contribution to advancing research and developing novel technologies for food industry in India and its commitment to training future leaders in this domain. Secretary, MoFPI also highlighted the Ministry’s continued support towards strengthening NIFTEM to improve its research infrstructure and outreach activities.
The Guests of Honour, Dr. M. N. Doja and Mr. Vivek Chandra, shared valuable insights on technological advancements and entrepreneurial growth within the food sector. They appreciated NIFTEM’s efforts in bridging the gap between academia and industry, driving progress, and nurturing talent through their interdisciplinary approach.
Alumni from various batches also came together to celebrate Foundation Day and post their participation in the Alumni Meet organized on 6th October. They shared their experiences and reconnected with their alma mater. Some of the Alumni performed during the cultural evening organized by students from different batches. prpgrammes and streams. Cultural evening included some very enthralling folk dances, melodies of yester years, jugal bandi, fusion etc by the very talented NIFTEM-K students which ensured audience glued to their chairs. The event served as a platform for alumni to interact with current students, discuss industry trends, and explore opportunities for collaboration and mentorship.
As part of the Foundation Day festivities, a Kavi Sammelan (poetry session) was organized, featuring celebrated poets Saurav Jain Suman, Rajesh Agarwal, Radhika Mitalash, Vibhor Chaudhary, and Dr. Pratik Gupta, who captivated the audience with their profound verses and recitations, making the day memorable one.NIFTEM’s Foundation Day marked another year of excellence, innovation, and growth in the field of food technology and entrepreneurship.
10, Oct 2024
Geothermal Energy’s 10GW Potential Can Solve India’s Power Hunger: Experts at MIT-WPU Conference
New Delhi: There are 300 hot springs in India with an estimated energy potential of 10 GW, yet the commercial production of geothermal energy in the country remains zero. If the potential of this never-ending energy source is fully harnessed, it can help fulfil India’s ever-increasing energy demand in an environment-friendly way. This was said by experts at a conference organized by the Student Chapter of International Association of Drilling Contractors at MIT World Peace University, Pune.
Said Prof. Rajib Kumar Sinharay, Program Director, Department of Petroleum Engineering, MIT-WPU: “Geothermal resources are widely available in India in areas such as the Himalayas, Son-Narmada-Tapti basin, Maharashtra, and Andaman-Nicobar Islands. Many sedimentary basins also have high geothermal gradient in the drilled oil wells. If systematically explored and developed, geothermal can supply significant energy in the major parts of India. Several companies are looking for geothermal energy in India both from private and public sector. ONGC is drilling for its 1MW geothermal energy project in Puga valley, Jammu & Kashmir. Geothermal energy will contribute significantly to India’s energy map in future.”
The conference brought together global experts, including Lars Nydahl Jørgensen, Regional Director (Europe) of the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), and Om Prakash Singh, Director (Technology & Field Services) at ONGC, among others.
While addressing students, Om Prakash Singh said, “There are numerous challenges in front of the petroleum industry in India. I urge students from various streams to unite and engage with the pressing challenges in the sector. In this era of technology and digitalization, the industry is eager to adopt innovative solutions. Your research in technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) can significantly contribute to the future of petroleum. Together, we can create a meaningful impact.”
During the event, these experts explored critical topics such as government policies for leasing geothermal blocks and profit sharing, investments in geothermal blocks by energy majors, collaborations to create turnkey solutions for geothermal energy, and technology integration. Key technologies discussed included geothermal exploration, reservoir modeling, drilling, and production, as well as the role of subsidies in geothermal drilling to encourage operators to make geothermal projects financially viable.
The International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), founded in 1940, is a global organization representing drilling contractors. IADC Student Chapters provide students with valuable opportunities to engage with the international IADC community, seasoned industry experts, and the broader energy industry.
10, Oct 2024
JICA along NBM and NECBDC to Elevate Bamboo Utilization in Northeast India
Shillong, October 10, 2024 – The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in collaboration with the National Bamboo Mission (NBM) and the Northeast Cane and Bamboo Development Council (NECBDC), held the second Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) meeting in Shillong, Meghalaya on JICA’s Technical Cooperation Project for Bamboo Use Promotion in Northeast Region. The project contributes to the objectives agreed in the 2022 Bamboo initiative for Strengthening Bamboo Value Chain in the North-East between Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and Embassy of Japan in India (link).
The project team consisting of NBM, NECBDC and JICA experts presented on-going activities to activate bamboo handicraft industry, including development of innovative designs to enhance marketability of bamboo products and provision of training to the target community cluster members in bamboo crafts skill development and financial management.
This project commenced in January 2023 aiming to activate the bamboo sector in the North Eastern Region, with an expected completion date set for the end of 2025. Chaired by NBM, NECBDC and JICA, the meeting gathered diverse stakeholders, including representatives from the North East Centre of Technology Application and Reach, Rain Forest Research Institute, State Bamboo Missions from the North Eastern States, the National Institute of Design – Assam, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region and the Embassy of Japan in India. The agenda was to review the project’s progress, discuss and approve work plans in coming year.
Key discussion points included strengthening partnerships among industry, academia, and government in India and Japan; and exploring collaboration opportunities on cutting-edge technologies such as producing animal feed from bamboo powder and making pavement using shredded bamboo; and ensuring the sustainability of the project activities including the financial management training for cluster member community.
As the bamboo sector garners increasing attention on both national and international stages, this partnership between JICA, NBM, and NECBDC marks a crucial step toward enhancing the sector’s capabilities and driving sustainable development in Northeast India.
10, Oct 2024
Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Inaugurates Indian Institute of Skills Mumbai; To train 5000 students annually in Industry 4.0 skills
Mumbai, October 10, 2024 : In a significant step towards enhancing the employability of Indian youth for national and global opportunities, the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated the Indian Institute of Skills (IIS) in Mumbai, which aims to cultivate an industry-ready workforce for Industry 4.0, equipped with cutting-edge technology and hands-on training across a range of trades including factory automation, digital manufacturing, mechatronics, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and additive manufacturing. catering to both the services and manufacturing sectors, as well as other emerging businesses.
Established through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the institute is a collaboration between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India and Tata IIS (a section 8 company under Tata Trusts).
The Prime Minister emphasized that the world only trusts a country when its youth is filled with confidence. He noted that the confidence of today’s young India is writing the story of a new future for the nation and highlighted that the global community sees India as a significant hub for human resources, with vast opportunities in education, skilling, healthcare, and software development across the globe. To prepare India’s youth for these opportunities, the Prime Minister emphasised that the government is aligning their skills with global standards.
Expressing his happiness on the inauguration of IIS Mumbai, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Govt of India remarked, “Institutions like IIS are pivotal in shaping a future-ready workforce, translating the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of India as the ‘Skill Capital of the World’ into a reality. By equipping our youth with cutting-edge expertise, this institute is not merely opening doors to opportunities within India but is positioning them to compete and excel in global markets as well.”
Built on a sprawling 4-acre campus within the National Skill Training Institute (NSTI) in Chunabhatti, Mumbai, IIS is designed to cultivate an industry-ready workforce equipped with cutting-edge technology and hands-on training. IIS Mumbai will offer specialized training in key sectors such as factory automation, digital manufacturing, mechatronics, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and additive manufacturing.
The institute will initially launch six specialized courses: Advanced Industrial Automation & Robotics, Industrial Automation Fundamentals, Advanced ARC Welding Techniques, Additive Manufacturing, Electric Vehicle Battery Specialist, and 2&3 Wheeler EV Technician. The institute will also extend hostel facilities for candidates to enhance their learning experience in the near future.
“By imparting advanced technical skills and hands-on experience to our youth, we are positioning India at the forefront of global skill development. This initiative is about more than just training; it’s about creating pathways for young talent across the nation to not only excel but also become pivotal contributors to India’s economic and technological progress. We are forging strategic partnerships like these with cutting-edge industries to ensure our skilling frameworks are not only relevant but also visionary—preparing an agile, future-ready workforce capable of meeting the fast-evolving demands of a globalized economy,” Shri Chaudhary added.
Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister for Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Government of Maharashtra said “The IIS centre launched today is going to be a state-of-the-art facility that will attract people from around the World. The Tata Group is a synonym for trust and growth. This is an opportunity for every candidate associated with this organization to work and learn. The Prime Minister has emphasized on prioritizing upskilling at many occasions and provided the necessary budget for ongoing and upcoming skilling initiatives.”
The institute will initially have advanced laboratories developed in partnership with over 15 global and Indian Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), ensuring that students gain practical experience at an affordable cost, using real industry equipment. Once their training is complete, they will be ready to be absorbed by new-age industries like EV manufacturers, AI, and robotics, among others.
In addition to its core offerings, IIS will also provide short-term courses in collaboration with industry partners, such as Industrial Robotics with Fanuc India, Industrial Automation with SMC India, and Culinary & Core Housekeeping with Taj Skyline. With its innovative approach to vocational training and robust industry ties, Tata IIS Mumbai is poised to emerge as a premier institution for skill development in India.
“India’s growing economy increasingly demands a skilled, resilient workforce – which can, in turn, advance productivity, economic growth, prosperity, and national development. By equipping our youth with useful skills, we can empower them to lead lives of independence and dignity and prepare them to keep pace with the evolving needs of industry today. The Indian Institute of Skills, Mumbai, with its world-class facilities, is a symbol of the Tata Group’s vision to take bold and agile steps to solve the nation’s challenges and help the youth transition to employment and enterprise,” said Shri Venu Srinivasan, Chairman, Tata Indian Institute of Skills.
The event was graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), and Shri Nilambuj Sharan, Senior Economic Advisor, MSDE. Key figures from Tata Trusts and Tata companies were also in attendance, including Shri Venu Srinivasan, Chairman of Tata IIS, Shri Siddharth Sharma, CEO of Tata Trusts, Shri Sabyasachi Das, CEO of Tata IIS, and Shri Girish Krishnamurthy, CEO of Tata MD. Additionally, Shri H N Shrinivas, Senior Advisor at Tata IIS, along with other senior dignitaries, faculty members, and trainees from IIS Mumbai, were present to celebrate this milestone moment in the evolution of skill development in India.
10, Oct 2024
IIT Madras Partners with Hindustan Zinc to Develop Advanced Zinc-Air Battery Technology
10th October 2024: In a landmark move supporting the ongoing global energy transition, Hindustan Zinc Limited, India’s largest and the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras).
This strategic collaboration aims to develop a ground breaking 1 kWh electrically-rechargeable Zinc-Air battery prototype, reaffirming both institutions’ commitment to advancing the future of sustainable energy solutions.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in the evolution of zinc-based battery technologies, leveraging zinc’s abundant resource availability, cost-effectiveness and established safety record.
While lithium-ion batteries currently dominate the market, their high cost, limited resource availability and safety concerns present major challenges that zinc-based alternatives can effectively address.
Speaking about this collaboration, Mr. Arun Misra, CEO, Hindustan Zinc Limited, said, “Zinc, a critical metal across numerous industries, is set to play a crucial role in the global energy transition. Our metal offers a sustainable and economically viable alternative to lithium in energy storage technology. Our partnership with IIT Madras will advance research on zinc-air battery technology, that will redefine the future of energy storage. By exploring new applications of zinc in energy storage, we are committed to contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for the generations to come.”
Leading the research team from IIT Madras, Prof. Aravind Kumar Chandiran, Head of Hyundai Hydrogen Innovation Hub, IIT Madras, brings extensive expertise in energy storage solutions like solar cells and zinc-air batteries. His research team has already developed a prototype rechargeable Zinc-Air battery and holds three Indian patents for innovations in leak resistance, anode recharging and anode replacement design. This collaboration aims to enhance energy storage systems, with potential applications in renewable energy, data centers and telecommunications.
Highlighting the expected outcomes, Prof. Aravind Kumar Chandiran, who is also a faculty in the Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Madras, said, “”Zinc-air batteries offer a promising solution for overcoming the challenges faced by current energy storage technologies. Our partnership with Hindustan Zinc allows us to leverage our expertise in zinc-air battery research and their industry leadership in metals to develop innovative solutions that act as significant energy storage systems for EVs and stationary storage systems. The successful development of this prototype will accelerate India’s capabilities in advanced battery technologies and pave the way for further innovations in the field”
Zinc-Air batteries are emerging as a viable alternative, known for their long-duration storage capabilities, durability and potential to be a more affordable alternative to lithium-ion batteries. Compared to lithium, which is over four times more expensive, zinc offers a more affordable solution with superior performance attributes.
Historically, zinc-based primary batteries have long held a significant market share in India and globally. The stable chemistries offered by zinc have been in wide circulation since the 1800s and are a part of everyday use in toys, remote controls, wall clocks etc. Recent advancements in rechargeable zinc-based batteries are paving the way for innovation across diverse sectors.
This battery technology is much more stable than lithium-ion chemistry and safe for vehicles since it utilizes water-based electrolytes and no flammables. Zinc-Air batteries offer longer life cycle and operate at low power with higher energy efficiency compared to lithium-ion batteries.
In terms of performance Zinc-Air batteries are superior to lithium-ion, making it an ideal choice for two and three wheelers as well. Globally zinc-based batteries have proven dependable and successful in the high-end defence sector (including aerospace and marine), renewable energy and critical infrastructure for data centres and 5G telecom, etc.
Prof. Manu Santhanam, Dean, Office of Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research, IIT Madras, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: ”We are glad to partner with Hindustan Zinc Limited to develop next generation zinc-air batteries with inhouse resources and technologies. Our partnership will strengthen India’s goal on self-reliant energy.”
Earlier research in zinc-air battery technology by IIT Madras has yielded remarkable results which has addressed the shortcomings of lithium-ion batteries the market is currently grappling with, so far. Unlike the replacement of whole battery packs in the case of lithium-ion batteries, used zinc battery cassette packs can be removed and replaced with fully charged ones thereby adding rechargeability to the list of advantages. Zinc-Air batteries signify a tremendous leap in the energy storage segment for being green and economical.
The global battery industry is evolving rapidly, driven by an urgent need for sustainable energy storage solutions. According to recent projections by Bloomberg NEF report, the global energy storage market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 21%, reaching 442 GWh by 2030. In India the rapid growth in solar power production will need enhanced energy storage solutions for storage and usage. Hindustan Zinc’s collaboration with IIT Madras is strategically focused to contribute to this growth by advancing zinc-based technologies that promise a safer, more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
This MoU with IIT Madras complements Hindustan Zinc’s ongoing efforts in the battery storage space. Recently, the company signed an MoU with Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) to develop next-generation zinc-ion batteries. Prior to that, Hindustan Zinc partnered with AEsir Technologies, Inc., a US-based company specializing in next-generation nickel-zinc battery technologies.
Hindustan Zinc, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and the third-largest silver producer. The company supplies to more than 40 countries and holds a market share of about 75% of the primary zinc market in India. Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023, reflecting its operational excellence, innovation, and leading ESG practices. As a world leader in the metals and mining industry, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for the global energy transition for a sustainable future.
