Empowers Women Entrepreneurs to Harness Government Schemes for Business Success at MACCIA

Nashik, India, July 15, 2024 — Women entrepreneurs gathered at the North Maharashtra Divisional Office in Nashik for a transformative seminar organized by the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce Industry and Agriculture.

CE Shreekant Patil, esteemed mentor of Startup India, delivered a passionate address emphasizing the pivotal role of government schemes in enabling women to kickstart their businesses. CE Shreekant Patil underscored the significance of skill development, manpower training, and strategic marketing practices as essential components for women entrepreneurs to transition from small enterprises to larger ventures.

MACCIA North Maharashtra President Shri. Sanjay Sonawane graced the event with a comprehensive overview of the Maharashtra Chamber’s initiatives dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs. Attendees were enlightened on the diverse financial support programs available at their disposal, aimed at catalyzing the growth of women-led businesses. At the ceremony, Mr. Sanjay Sonawanr and Rajaram Sangle has felicitated Shreekant Patil in acknowledgment of his unwavering commitment to advancing women’s entrepreneurship in the region.

In a bid to ensure sustained success, CE Shreekant Patil delved into the importance of effective marketing strategies, branding, and trademark registration to solidify the market presence of women-owned enterprises. An interactive session facilitated meaningful dialogue between attendees and Shreekant Patil, fostering an exchange of insights and valuable guidance for nurturing their entrepreneurial pursuits.

The seminar witnessed an inspiring turnout of executive members and prominent figures such as Mrs. Sonal Dagde, and Mrs. Sheetal Thackeray, among others, reflecting a resolute dedication to fostering the growth of women in business. Encouragingly, the event served as a pivotal platform for women entrepreneurs to engage, learn, and leverage government schemes in realizing their entrepreneurial ambitions.

The ROI of Investing in Corporate Wellness Programs in India

15th July 2024  India Is your business silently bleeding profits due to an unhealthy workforce? If you’re like most companies, the figures might shock you! Absenteeism, high turnover rates, and lack of productivity can quietly drain your resources, leaving your bottom line gasping for air. But here’s the kick: these issues often stem from a work culture that doesn’t prioritize employee wellness. So, what’s the solution? Enter corporate wellness programs, a game-changer that transforms your workplace’s culture and financial health.

Delhivery, a leading logistics and supply chain services company in Gurgaon, was seeking ways to create an organization-wide wellness culture which would in turn help boost employee engagement and productivity. The HR Manager at Delhivery recognized the need for a fresh approach and reached out to Ashwyn at That Lifestyle Coach (TLC). Ashwyn, a fitness professional with a deep interest in corporate wellness, curated a comprehensive program tailored to Delhivery’s specific needs. This initiative aimed to foster a more positive and productive work environment, ultimately transforming the company’s workplace culture and overall performance.

Highlights of the TLC Program

TLC initiated the project at the Bangalore HQ which had an average monthly attendance of 200 employees. Highlights of the program included:

• Wellness space setup and management: Established and managed wellness spaces with the support of professional coaches to provide ongoing guidance and support to employees.
• Fitness assessments: Assessed employees’ fitness levels to introduce safe and thoroughly aligned fitness programs.
• Fitness initiatives: Encouraged physical activity through an on-site gym and daily fitness classes available for free to employees.
• Nutrition guidance: Promoted better nutrition with personalized meal plans and a revamped cafeteria menu offering healthy food options.
• Mental health support: Offers one-on-one counseling services and weekly stress management workshops.
• Work-life balance solutions: Worked closely with the HR teams to implement mid-day power-up sessions to help reinstate mental energies and team efficiency throughout the day.

Positive Outcomes Post-Program

Following the implementation of TLC’s wellness program, employees* reported:

• A noticeable reduction in absenteeism, with many employees feeling healthier and more motivated to attend work regularly.
• A significant 15% increase in overall productivity, as employees felt more energized and focused.
• Improved employee morale and engagement, with employee satisfaction scores rising noticeably.
• Enhanced physical fitness and well-being, leading to fewer health issues and a more vibrant workplace.
• A stronger sense of community and teamwork was fostered by the wellness initiatives and activities.
• A considerable reduction in employee turnover rates, as employees felt more committed and connected to the organization, recognizing the efforts made to prioritize their wellness.

*Based on conversations between TLC and employees at Delhivery*

The Hidden Costs of an Unhealthy Workforce

Think about it – every time an employee calls in sick, your business takes a hit. Delayed projects, stressed-out colleagues, and plummeting productivity are just the tip of the iceberg. According to a study by ASSOCHAM, Indian companies lose an estimated INR 24,000 crores annually due to absenteeism caused by lifestyle-related diseases. High turnover rates are another sign of a workplace in distress. When employees leave, you lose not just their skills but also the time and money invested in their training. According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in India, replacing an employee can cost up to 50-60% of their annual salary. And this doesn’t account for the intangible costs, like the impact on team morale and client relationships.

Unhealthy employees struggle to maintain productivity due to physical or mental health issues. According to a report by Optum, 46% of the Indian workforce experiences stress, impacting their productivity and work performance.

Why Corporate Wellness Programs are a Game Changer

Corporate wellness programs enhance employee health and well-being through services like fitness and nutrition coaching, mental health support, and stress management workshops. TLC customizes these programs to each organization’s needs for high engagement and effectiveness. TLC offers tailored solutions, sustainable wellness strategies, professional on-site coaching, engaging group activities, and strategic investments to foster a balanced, healthy, and collaborative work environment. These programs demonstrate to employees that their organization genuinely cares about them and their health, leading to increased commitment and loyalty

Wellness programs by TLC work by providing:

• Wellness space setup and management: Establish and manage wellness spaces with the support of professional coaches to provide ongoing guidance and support to employees.
• Fitness assessments: Assess employees’ fitness levels to introduce safe and thoroughly aligned fitness programs.
• Fitness initiatives: Encourage physical activity through an on-site gym and daily fitness classes available for free to employees.
• Nutrition guidance: Promote better nutrition with personalized meal plans and a revamped cafeteria menu offering healthy food options.
• Mental health support: Offer one-on-one counseling services and weekly stress management workshops.
• Work-life balance solutions: Work closely with HR teams to implement mid-day power-up sessions to help reinstate mental energies and team efficiency throughout the day.

Flex Your Workplace Muscles with TLC’s Fitness-Focused Programs

Investing in corporate wellness programs yields both short-term and long-term financial benefits. In the short term, wellness programs can decrease absenteeism by up to 27%, according to the American Journal of Health Promotion. Healthy employees are more focused and efficient, with studies showing a 10-15% increase in productivity among participants in wellness programs.

In the long term, companies see even greater returns. A study by ICICI Lombard revealed that organizations with wellness programs reported a 30-40% reduction in healthcare costs over three years. Additionally, companies with wellness programs experience a 25% lower employee turnover rate, saving on recruitment and training costs. A commitment to employee wellness also enhances a company’s reputation, attracting top talent and fostering loyalty among customers.

AMPP Announces New Chair of the AMPP Board of Directors

Houston, TX, July 15, 2024 –The Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), the global authority in materials protection and performance, today announced a new Chair of the AMPP Board of Directors. Pursuant to the AMPP Bylaws, former AMPP Vice Chair Kimberly-Joy Harris, Ph.D., PMP, has succeeded to fill the unexpired term of former AMPP Chair Paul Vinik, who has resigned from the Board. The term concludes at the end of 2024.

Dr. Harris, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in the energy sector, steps into this role with a comprehensive background in asset integrity, sustainability, and efficiency. She is the President and principal energy consultant at LIL Energy Consulting LLC, where she provides strategic guidance, technical expertise, and leadership development across the oil, gas, refinery, and pipeline industries.

“Kimberly is a long-standing, experienced, and well-respected member of the pipeline industry, whose passion for chapter support and recognition of our volunteers has continually driven our mission forward,” said AMPP CEO Alan Thomas. “Her leadership and expertise are invaluable, particularly when our industry faces significant technological and environmental challenges. I am confident that Kimberly’s vision and strategic approach will greatly benefit AMPP and its community.”

Dr. Harris holds master’s degrees in energy transition from the University of Texas at Austin and organizational leadership from Colorado Christian University. Her career includes key roles in corrosion and integrity engineering programs at EnLink and Enbridge, where she was instrumental in leading diverse teams, fostering best practices, and crafting technical standards and training.

“Taking on this role is both an honor and a responsibility that I accept with a deep commitment to our mission and community,” said Dr. Harris. “I am grateful to Paul for his leadership and steadfast dedication to AMPP. His contributions have been pivotal in shaping the direction of our organization, and I hope to build upon his legacy of integrity and innovation. Together, with the support of our members and volunteers, we will continue to advance our industry’s standards and practices.”

Dr. Harris will lead the AMPP Board as it continues its work with the AMPP Global Center Board, led by Juan Caballero, to consolidate AMPP’s governance into one Board in January. This important project will, by design, lead to a more agile and innovative organization.

Polls, Heatwave, Impacted Logistics Sector in June 2024 – Shriram Mobility Bulletin

15th July 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  The July 2024 edition of the Shriram Mobility Bulletin, released today, provides insightful data on the current state of the automobile and logistics sector. Motor car sales saw a decline of 9%, while fuel consumption for petrol and diesel dropped by 5% in June 2024, although year-over-year (YoY) consumption increased by 4% and 1%, respectively. Truck rentals experienced a 2.6% decrease on the Mumbai-Kolkata-Mumbai route but saw a 4.1% increase on the Kolkata-Guwahati-Kolkata route. Sales of used commercial vehicles grew on a YoY basis, with a rise of 7% for 7.5 to 16-ton capacity vehicles and 43% for 31 to 36-ton capacity vehicles. FASTag toll collections rose by 2% in volume and 7% in value on a YoY basis. Additionally, the generation of e-way bills showed a month-over-month (MoM) increase of 8% for intra-state and 5% for inter-state transactions for May.

Over the past two years, prices for all types of used commercial vehicles, whether BS IV or BS VI, have increased 25-30%. The subdued sales during 2019-22 have resulted in a shortage of supply in the used truck market.

With new vehicle prices still on the rise, the used truck market is experiencing significant traction, and prices for used vehicles are expected to remain strong. While the prices may not go up like last year, there could be some correction compared with FY24.

The current batch of new trucks (comprising last-year and one-year-old vehicles) will be available after a few years in the pre-owned segment. This could potentially drive sustained growth in the used vehicle segment.

Appended below are highlights for Used Commercial Vehicle prices on the Month-on-Month and Year-on-Year scenario across categories tracked in the Shriram Mobility Bulletin.

• On a YoY basis, prices across all vehicle categories have increased ranging from 6% for 25 to 28.5 ton capacity vehicles to 43% for 31 to 36 ton capacity vehicles. The prices of 1.5 to 2 ton capacity vehicles rose by 38%, between 2 to 3.5-ton capacity rose by 22% and that of 3.5 to 7.5 ton capacity rose by 21%. We observed a marginal increase in the prices of vehicles between 7.5 to 19 ton capacities ranging from 7% to 9%. Interestingly, prices of 37 to 43.5-ton capacity increased by 18% YOY.
• On a MoM basis, except for the prices of 1.5 to 2-ton capacity vehicles dropping by 6%, vehicles between 2 to 16-ton capacity vehicles rose between 7% and 21%. Interestingly, prices for vehicles in the 3.5 to 7.5 tons capacity did not change at all. The prices of vehicles in the 16 to 43.5-ton capacity saw a drop in prices ranging from 4% to 9% except for the 25 to 28.5-ton vehicles where prices increased by a meager 1%.

Mr. YS Chakravarti, MD & CEO of Shriram Finance Ltd. speaking about the June 2024 Mobility Bulletin said, “With the new government in place and with monsoon rain expected to gain strength, businesses are hopeful that policy action from the government will help push economic activity into a higher orbit. The slowdown across sectors including road transport, vehicle sales appears temporary.”

Shriram Finance Limited also believes that the ongoing Kharif season, which will head towards harvest by mid-August could boost the sales of Agricultural, Trailer, and Commercial Tractors.

Michael Mapes Announces Relocation to Sioux City, Iowa, and Upcoming Relaunch of The Wealth Creation Institute

Sioux City, IA, July 15, 2024 –Renowned business coach and bestselling author, Michael Mapes, is thrilled to announce the relocation of his operations to Sioux City, Iowa. This move marks an exciting new chapter for Michael Mapes and his acclaimed coaching services and training program, The Wealth Creation Institute, which has been on hiatus since 2016.

Michael Mapes, the author of the bestseller “The Conscious Entrepreneur’s Guide to Creating Wealth,” has a proven track record of helping entrepreneurs worldwide achieve six and seven-figure milestones. After a successful foray into the marketing agency sphere, Michael recognized the irreplaceable value of personalized, one-on-one coaching for entrepreneurs navigating today’s challenging business landscape.

A New Chapter in Sioux City

The move to Sioux City aligns perfectly with Michael’s vision for the future of The Wealth Creation Institute. “I’ve been blown away by the amount of incredible, diverse, and vibrant businesses and activities in Sioux City,” said Michael. “I am eager to contribute to the local economy and support the growth of conscious entrepreneurs in this dynamic city.”

Announcing the Relaunch

The Wealth Creation Institute will soon resume its mission of empowering purpose-driven entrepreneurs. Michael’s coaching focuses on the Five Wealth Creation Foundations: vision, audience, offerings, marketing, and sales. This personalized approach ensures that each entrepreneur receives tailored guidance that generic courses cannot provide.

“In today’s crowded marketplace, conscious entrepreneurs face unprecedented challenges such as increased competition, complexity, and costs,” Michael explained. “My goal is to provide high-quality, actionable insights that help entrepreneurs tap into their unique value and market themselves authentically.”

Stay tuned for more details about the exciting relaunch of The Wealth Creation Institute, coming next week.

Myntra Integrates Reward Points from Multiple Banks and Brands with Twid’s Pay with Rewards

15th July 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  Twid, India’s leading rewards-based payment network, and Myntra, one of the country’s leading fashion, beauty, and lifestyle e-commerce platforms, today announced a strategic partnership revolutionizing the shopping experience for customers. The partnership will enable Myntra’s customers to seamlessly use their reward points for purchases on the platform with the “Pay with Rewards” construct. The collaboration aims to unleash the true potential of reward points and unlock guaranteed customer savings on their purchases.

Myntra’s recent End Of Reason Sale (EORS), saw a strategic partnership with Twid. This collaboration allowed Myntra customers to leverage loyalty and reward points from various banks and brands, including Intermiles, PAYBACK (now Zillion), TimesPoint, and debit/credit card programs, directly at checkout. This innovative integration empowered customers to save a notable percentage of additional savings on their purchases, effectively boosting their purchasing power.

Commenting on the partnership, Amit Koshal, CEO & Co-founder at Twid, said, “We are excited to join forces with Myntra and provide their valuable customers with a rewarding shopping experience. With the power of rewards, we are empowering customers and Myntra with a mutually beneficial channel that will define a new path for customer delight for Myntra and provide the best value for their customers.”

“Our partnership with Twid not only enhances our customers’ shopping experience by allowing them to redeem their reward points seamlessly but also brings significant value to Myntra. By increasing the share of prepaid orders, we’ve seen a notable improvement in order fulfillment rates and, reinforcing our commitment to providing exceptional value and convenience to our customers,” said Santosh Kevlani, Head of Monetization, Payments & Fintech, Myntra.

The Twid-Myntra collaboration is a significant step towards revolutionizing the rewards ecosystem in India, offering customers a seamless and value-driven shopping experience.

Tourism Malaysia and Batik Air Collaborate to Showcase Malaysia’s Wonders to Indian Travel Agents

15th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Tourism Malaysia is proud to announce its collaboration with Batik Air to host a series of Product Briefing Seminars across India, aimed at promoting Malaysia as a premier travel destination. These seminars will highlight Malaysia’s diverse cultural attractions and unique tourism offerings. They are scheduled for today in Srinagar, followed by Jalandhar on July 15th, and Chandigarh on July 17th, 2024, offering travel professionals in each region the opportunity to engage directly with Tourism Malaysia and Batik Air representatives and learn about the latest tourism developments and attractions.

Batik Air, a leading airline operating 40 flights weekly from 7 major cities in India, has partnered with Tourism Malaysia to facilitate seamless travel experiences for Indian tourists visiting Malaysia. With its commitment to providing exceptional service and convenient connectivity, Batik Air is dedicated to enhancing the travel experience between India and Malaysia.

The Product Briefing Seminars will provide travel agents and industry professionals with valuable insights into Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and natural landscapes. Participants can expect detailed presentations on Malaysia’s top tourist destinations, exciting travel packages, and exclusive promotional offers.

“We are thrilled to partner with Batik Air to showcase the best of Malaysia to the Indian travel trade,” said Mr. Ahmad Johanif Mohd Ali, Director, Tourism Malaysia-New Delhi. “Malaysia offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and luxury, making it an ideal destination for Indian tourists. We aim to educate the travel agents about our offerings and encourage them to promote Malaysia as a preferred destination for their clients.”

“Batik Air is committed to providing seamless connectivity between India and Malaysia, and we are excited to be a part of this initiative,” said Mr. Suresh Vanan, Head of Communications & Promotions, Batik Air. “Our airline offers exceptional services, and we look forward to working closely with the Indian travel trade to promote tourism between our countries.”

Malaysia offers a wide range of attractions, including adventure sports like diving in Sabah, where one can obtain a diving license in just four days. The country is also a popular destination for weddings, with its beautiful landscapes, state-of-the-art facilities, and expertise in hosting Indian weddings. Golf enthusiasts will delight in Malaysia’s world-class golf courses, while filmmakers will appreciate the country’s diverse locations, favorable climate, and excellent filming infrastructure.

Diving in Malaysia:

Malaysia offers a diver’s paradise with its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. The country is home to numerous world-class diving spots, including Sipadan Island, Mabul Island, and the Redang Islands. For those interested in learning how to dive, Malaysia offers a range of diving courses and certifications through reputable organizations like PADI and SSI. In just four days, one can complete an Open Water Diver course and earn a diving license. With modern diving facilities, experienced instructors, and affordable prices, Malaysia is an ideal destination for divers of all levels.

Wedding in Malaysia:

Malaysia is a dream destination for weddings, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and modern amenities. From beachfront resorts to luxurious hotels, Malaysia provides a range of venues to suit every taste and budget. Indian weddings are particularly well-catered for, with many resorts offering specialized services and facilities to ensure a memorable and authentic experience. With its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and picturesque backdrops, Malaysia is the perfect place to tie the knot.

Golfing in Malaysia:

Malaysia is a golfer’s haven, boasting over 200 world-class golf courses designed by renowned architects like Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. From lush rainforests to scenic coastlines, Malaysia’s golf courses offer challenging play, stunning scenery, and top-notch facilities. Many courses have hosted international tournaments, and some have even been rated among the best in Asia. With its pleasant climate, affordable prices, and warm hospitality, Malaysia is an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts.

Filming in Malaysia:

Malaysia offers a filmmaker’s paradise, with its diverse landscapes, modern infrastructure, and favorable climate. From bustling cities to scenic beaches, and lush rainforests to rolling hills, Malaysia provides a wide range of locations to suit every production need. The country has hosted numerous international film productions, including Hollywood blockbusters and Asian dramas. With its competitive pricing, skilled crew, and supportive government incentives, Malaysia is an attractive destination for filmmakers worldwide.

The Product Briefing Seminars will provide Indian travel agents with valuable insights into Malaysia’s tourism offerings and services, enabling them to better promote the destination to their clients.