15, Feb 2024
Motorola disrupts the entry level smartphone market with moto g04 boasting a premium design with 4 stunning colours
Mumbai, 15th February 2024– Motorola, India’s best 5G smartphone brand launched its latest entry level smartphone today, the moto g04.It comes with a premium design with acrylic glass finish (PMMA) and will be available in 4 attractive colours. It also features a 16.66 cm (6.6”) IPS LCD punch-hole display with 90 Hz refresh rate. The moto g04 is also India’s most affordable smartphone with the latest Android™ 14. Furthermore, the moto g04 delivers powerful performance with its built-in 4GB or 8GB RAM which can be extended up to 16GB with RAM boost feature and 64GB or 128GB UFS 2.2 storage with UNISOC T606 chipset, and a massive 5000mAh battery. Additionally, it features IP52 water-repellent design, a rarity in this price range, and a 16MP AI camera with a Quad Pixel camera system for superb pictures, whether in daylight or low light
The moto g04 boasts an exceptional design, beautifully crafted from premium materials. Its streamlined camera housing feels great in hand and the device is extremely thin just 7.99mm and lightweight just 178g making it one of the lightest and slimmest smartphone in the segment. Moreover, the side-mounted fingerprint reader ensures an easy and fast unlock along with high-quality matte finish on the back of the phone making it look as good as it feels. Available in four vibrant colours, namely Concord Black, Sea Green, Satin Blue, and Sunrise Orange, the moto g04 compliments every style. The IP52 water-repellent design also ensures the device stays protected even with light spills and splashes.
Users can enjoy a multidimensional audio-visual experience owing to the punch-hole 16.66 cm (6.6”) 90 Hz display with a High Brightness mode complemented by a powerful Dolby Atmos® speaker. The display offers an immersive experience, eliminating all distractions and disturbances. High Brightness mode automatically adjusts the display outdoors so it’s easier to see, reaching peak brightness levels of up to 537 NITS. Conversely, the Night Light mode tints the screen amber, making the display easier to view in dim or poor lighting conditions. Matching such a remarkable display, Dolby Atmos® adds another dimension of audio, offering greater depth, clarity, and details.
The moto g04 comes with Android 14, the only phone in its segment to do so. With this, users can make their devices more personal, protected, and accessible while getting privacy updates for health, safety, and data. With enhanced PIN security that recommends users set a 6-digit PIN, upon finishing which the device unlocks automatically without any friction. Additionally, the Health Connect feature acts as a central way to connect and sync all the data from various fitness apps in one place, for a more holistic view. Another feature is the flash notifications that alerts the users by turning on the flash and screen light for incoming calls, so they don’t miss a notification.
Ensuring an unmatched performance, the moto g04 comes with built-in 8GB / 4GB RAM which can be expanded up to 16GB with RAM boost feature. Coupled with a a reliable UNISOC T606 chipset, and UFS 2.2 storage that enables faster read-write speeds, the moto g04 makes multitasking seamless. The moto g04 offers two storage options of 64GB and 128GB which can be further expanded to 1TB via a dedicated microSD card and it also features a triple sim card slot.
Commenting on the launch, Mr. T.M. Narasimhan, Managing Director, Mobile Business Group – India, said “We are pleased to announce yet another addition to our g series smartphones – the moto g04. This device is a true embodiment of our commitment to providing users with attractive design, disruptive features at outstanding price points. As India’s most affordable Android 14 smartphone, moto g04 enables users to experience cutting-edge technology without compromising on essential features. With this launch, we continue to make significant strides in our pursuit to democratise technology by empowering individuals to explore, connect and experience like never before.”
The moto g04 comes with a massive 5000mAh battery that offers outstanding backup and supports 15W charging. It also comes with an IP52 rated water repellent design and a 16MP AI-powered camera that captures beautiful photos with the help of automatic AI enhancements. Loaded with smart features like HDR and Portrait mode, to generate professional-looking shots automatically. Moreover, consumers can click better selfies owing to the device’s 5MP front camera with face retouch, for social media worthy clicks every time. Other notable features included in the camera system are Timelapse, Night Vision, Portrait Mode, and Leveller among others.
Availability:
The moto g04 will be available in four beautiful colours: Concord Black, Sea Green, Satin Blue, and Sunrise Orange, featuring acrylic glass (PMMA) finish with a matte texture that makes it scratch-resistant.
moto g04 will be available in two memory & storage variants with built-in 4GB RAM + 64GB storage and 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage; and will go on sale on Flipkart, Motorola.in and leading retail stores starting 22nd February 2024, 12PM onwards.
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- By Rabindra
15, Feb 2024
Admission to LPU Distance and Online Education Programmes for Jan-Feb Intake open
National: Admissions to Distance and Online Education Programmes of Lovely Professional University (LPU) are open for January and February 2024 intake for the academic year 2023-24. LPU Distance & Online Education Programmes are available in the disciplines of Management, Commerce, Science, Computer Applications, Information Technology, Arts, and Library & Information Sciences.
Presently, LPU offers MBA, BBA, DBA, MCA, M.Sc. IT, BCA, B.Sc. IT, DCA, M. Com, B. Com, M.A., B.A., MLIS, BLIS and DLIS programmes through Distance Education (DE) mode and MBA, MCA, M.Sc. (Mathematics), M. Com, M.A., BCA, B.A., and B. Com, programmes through the Online Education mode. MBA Programmes in Distance and Online Education modes offer nine specializations including Business Analytics, Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management, Data Science, Digital Marketing, International Business, Information Technology, and Operations Management. These specializations are quite popular amongst working professionals.
Professionals and students aiming to enhance their educational qualifications can also choose from various M.A. programs, including English, Economics, Mathematics, History, Political Science, Sociology, Psychology, Education, Punjabi, and Hindi, offered through Distance Education mode, and in English, Economics, History, Political Science, and Sociology, offered through Online mode. The Distance and Online Education mode students are academically facilitated through Personal Contact Programme (PCP) classes and Virtual LIVE classes respectively.
Illustratively, as per UGC notification dated 02 September 2022, the degrees obtained in Distance and Online Education modes are considered at par with regular mode degrees for employment and higher education purposes. Furthermore, LPU Distance and Online mode students have the access to same academic, professional, placement, co-curricular and sports opportunities which are available for regular mode students. It is also noteworthy that degrees obtained through LPU Distance and Online Education modes are considered by the World Education Services (WES) and other educational credentials assessment bodies, for immigration and higher studies abroad.
Many popular sports persons including International and National level players, army officers, industry leaders, Govt. and Private sector employees have availed of LPU Distance and Online Education programmes to enhance their educational qualifications. These programmes are powered by multiple award-winning Online Learning Management Systems and interactive Mobile Apps- ‘LPU Touch’ for Distance mode and ‘LPU Online’ for Online mode students. To bridge the distance in the realms of Higher Education, the Distance and Online learners are provided with the same opportunities as regular mode students.
15, Feb 2024
Amway India launches ‘Pehal’ – An initiative towards supporting Women’s Economic Empowerment
New Delhi, 15 th Feb 2024 – In a steadfast commitment to community development, Amway India, one of the leading FMCG Direct Selling companies, championed the cause of women empowerment amongst less privileged with the introduction of ‘Pehal’ under its Nari Shakti Project in collaboration with its NGO partner, Deepalaya. Unleashing the potential of a collective endeavor, Pehal stands as a unique platform empowering less privileged women to initiate and establish sustainable enterprises for economic sustainability. Functioning as both a production center and a retail outlet, Pehal will be run by 40 women beneficiaries of Project Nari Shakti, a skill development and livelihood program dedicated to empowering women.
The initiative was inaugurated by Shri. Lachhiram Naib Tehsildar, Mr. Rajneesh Chopra, Head, Amway India, Mr. Ajay Khanna, CMO, Amway India, and Dr. George John, Secretary & Chief Executive, Deepalaya, besides other officials from Amway India and Deepalaya.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajneesh Chopra, Head , Amway India said, “In today’s dynamic world, women stand as powerful agents of change, defending essential values and driving progress. Reflecting this momentum, the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation report indicated women constitute 1 13.76% of entrepreneurs in India, revealing vast opportunities for economic independence. At Amway, we believe that women play a pivotal role not only in driving economic growth but also in shaping the broader fabric of our society. With this unwavering commitment, we introduced Nari Shakti – a women’s livelihood program in India to empower less privileged women to achieve economic sustainability. It gives us a sense of fulfillment that the initiative has transformed the lives of over 35,000 individuals, including 3000+ women since its inception. Remarkably, 80% of these women have attained self-sufficiency in their livelihoods. We firmly believe that the introduction of the Pehal initiative will catalyze our efforts by actively fostering the growth of a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem led by women at the grassroots level. It stands as a testament to our commitment to diversity and inclusivity, aligning seamlessly with our broader vision of women’s empowerment. Our heartfelt wishes to all the women of Pehal as they embark on their journey towards self-reliance and economic sustainability. Together, we pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.”
Pehal is a special project focusing on women’s livelihood that serves as both a production center and retail outlet, run by 40 women who are direct beneficiaries of Project Nari Shakti- a women’s skill development and livelihood program by Amway India. This initiative aims to offer a diverse array of high-quality handmade products, including apparel, home décor items, kitchen essentials, fashion accessories, and more. Additionally, Pehal is committed to providing practical skills development training to 200+ new students, fostering growth and empowerment among women. Amway India is dedicated to providing essential funding for the establishment and administration of the center to its implementing partner, Deepalaya, for an initial three-year period. Deepalaya will play a pivotal role in imparting marketing and sales training, empowering women to establish and sustain their enterprises successfully.
Speaking on the collaboration, Dr. George John, Secretary & Chief Executive, Deepalaya stated, “We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Amway India with this ‘Pehal’ initiative under Project Nari Shakti. Deepalaya is committed to the upliftment of women, and, through this collaboration, we aim to fortify Self-Help Groups and empower local artisans. By promoting women’s entrepreneurship and providing comprehensive training, ‘Pehal’ is a significant step towards economic sustainability and socio-cultural enhancement. Together with Amway India, we look forward to making a lasting positive impact on the lives of women in Sohna, Haryana, and contributing to a more inclusive future.”
15, Feb 2024
Newton School appoints two senior executives to strengthen market leadership
National, February 15th, 2024: Newton School, pioneering EdTech platform building futuristic AI-powered neo-university, has made 2 key appointments in their senior leadership team including Prashant Kohli as Senior Director of Marketing and Paridhi Agarwal as Assistant Vice President-Business. The duo will have a substantial role to add to Neo University’s ongoing endeavors to expand Newton’s operations on a national scale and to strengthen its market leadership.
Paridhi comes with hands-on experience of 14 years across business management roles. In her previous six-year-long stint as a Director at Flipkart, she specialized in lifestyle categories and took charge of leading category teams. She successfully established businesses in areas such as makeup & fragrances, kids’ clothing, and women’s western wear. Before Flipkart, Agarwal was associated with UNILEVER where she played a major role in boosting revenue within the skin care portfolio across both General Trade and Modern Trade. In her new role at Newton School, Paridhi will be heading the Data Science department with a team of 100 people. Some of her key responsibility areas (KRAs) will include driving growth and customer experience through outcome-based learning.
Prashant on the other hand is an Engineer turned marketer with 14 odd years of experience across sectors like Consumer Tech, Consumer Internet, FMCG, Media & Advertising, Care, Hospitality, AlcoBev, Travel & Lifestyle amongst others. Driven by a growth framework focusing on People, Strategy & Learning, Kohli has built and managed teams in his last stint as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Wiggles where he was responsible for the growth of the brand across multiple product and service verticals in pet healthcare. A certified design thinker, Prashant strives for a balance between creative & analytical thinking while ensuring people are at the center of every problem-solving statement. In his new role at Newton School, Prashant will be responsible for brand building and driving growth tapping into his marketing experience.
Commenting on the announcement, Paridhi Agarwal, Assistant Vice President of business, at Newton School, said “As I join Newton School, I am reminded of my transformative journey at IIM Lucknow, which has shaped not just my career but my character. Newton’s vision reflects my journey and in this new chapter, I am committed to bridging the gap between learners and the ever-evolving industry demands. Our mission is to craft an exceptional educational experience that is not only enriching but also empowering.”
Prashant Kohli, Senior Director of Marketing, said, “I am excited to be a core part of Newton School and contribute to their transformational journey. The role is a unique opportunity considering the strong push that the Indian government is giving to technology as an enabler in almost every sector of the economy. This positions us strongly to build an education brand that creates tech leaders who can impact various industries at scale. Newton School is focused on delivering exceptional, highly relevant, application-oriented education that creates great outcomes for both students and society at large. And I am looking forward to strengthening the brand further by partnering with internal & external stakeholders in the ecosystem.”
The two in their respective roles will help Newton scale to newer heights. Newton School has become a prominent institute and the go to choice of students for Artificial Intelligence and Data Science by constantly offering industry-relevant and high-quality education. Today, new-age technologies like AI and ML have become an integral part of our lives and to fulfill the evolving demands of the industry, Newton is focused on bridging the gap between traditional education and industry demands.
Siddharth Maheshwari, Co-founder of Newton School, commented, “We are thrilled to have Prashant and Paridhi join our team and eagerly anticipate their contributions in maximizing the potential of Newton School’s pioneering position. Education plays a significant role in nation-building and has a profound effect on the lives of students; we intend to actively contribute to the development of the appropriate talent pool for the nation. Under Prashant and Paridhi’s able leadership, exceptional academic prowess, and industry experience I am confident Newton School will continue to thrive as a hub of developing the next gen leaders of the nation.”
15, Feb 2024
Ministry of Education Launches Historic Partnership Between TeamLease Edtech and NSDC
New Delhi, February 15: Marking a transformative moment in the landscape of Indian education and skill development, Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, today officially inaugurates an innovative partnership between TeamLease EdTech and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). This strategic collaboration is designed to foster employability through skill development by endorsing work-integrated degree programs. Digivarsity, TeamLease EdTech’s pioneering tech-first platform, will now synergize with Skill India Digital, offering candidates enhanced access to higher education and employment opportunities, heralding a new era in education and skill development.
TeamLease EdTech, a leader in educational solutions in India, has launched Digivarsity, a revolutionary platform that integrates academic study with real-world work experiences. Aimed at redefining the realm of higher education in India, Digivarsity prepares students for successful careers by equipping them with necessary workplace skills in addition to academic knowledge. With partnerships established with India’s top 10 universities and more than 150 leading employers, Digivarsity introduces innovative work-linked degree programs that bridge the divide between education and employment. This initiative empowers students to make well-informed decisions regarding their educational paths while gaining invaluable practical work experience. Digivarsity reflects the vision for the future of higher education in India as envisioned by the National Education Policy 2020.
“Digivarsity is poised to initiate a transformative shift in the higher education sector of India. We are committed to investing INR 100 crore over the next five years to expand the platform and reach over 10 lakh students. We believe that the skills required by today’s employers are best learned through real-world learning environments, in collaboration with industry partners. Our objective is to furnish students with the skills needed by the job market, thereby shaping the workforce of tomorrow,” shared Shantanu Rooj, Founder, and CEO of TeamLease EdTech.
The launch of Digivarsity tackles the critical challenges faced by both employers and universities. Employers often express difficulties in recruiting and retaining skilled talent, whereas universities grapple with providing both academic excellence and practical skill-building to render students employable upon completing their courses. This partnership between educational institutions and employers, facilitated by Digivarsity, promises to revolutionize the learning experience for students. By promoting work-integrated degree programs, Digivarsity not only aims to forge a future talent supply chain but also assists universities in broadening their scope and impact. The initiative is set to significantly contribute to the improvement of India’s Gross Enrollment Ratio, offering programs that emphasize:
- Earning while Learning
- Learning by Doing
- Learning with Enhanced Signaling Value
“Participants of the Work-Integrated Degree Programs will receive on-the-job internships or apprenticeships, granting them substantial skills and work experience upon graduation and a distinct advantage over fresh graduates. Furthermore, each student will benefit from a monthly stipend to support their education and living expenses, truly realizing the ‘Earn while you Learn’ concept,” highlighted Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO of NSDC, underlining the combined efforts with TeamLease EdTech to significantly advance youth employability. This partnership marks a crucial step forward in enhancing employability and skill development, introducing a novel category of embedded work programs that are set to markedly improve the employability prospects of India’s youth.
15, Feb 2024
USA leads Indian electronics hardware exports, followed by UAE and Netherlands – ESC Analysis
New Delhi, 15th February 2024: The Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) has recently released its analytical report for the fiscal year 2022-23, showcasing a remarkable surge in exports of electronics goods and components, which saw an impressive 50.25% increase compared to the previous year, amounting to a substantial US$ 23.58 billion. According to the report, India’s production of electronic hardware in the same period reached an estimated US$ 87 billion, contributing significantly to the global electronics equipment production valued at US$ 2300 billion.
The report was launched during the annual event of ESC India Soft 9th Edition held in January 2024. Furthermore, IndiaSoft 2024 and the concurrent 9th edition of India Electronics Expo, both organized by the ESC, recorded a remarkable business turnover of Rs 2150 million (US$26.21 million), surpassing the previous year’s record of Rs 1710 million (US$20.85 million) in 2023, reflecting an impressive growth of 25.73%.
The report provides insights into the global electronics equipment production landscape, revealing that communication equipment leads the pack with a production value of US$ 575 billion, followed closely by computer systems and peripherals at US$ 445 billion, semiconductors at US$ 430 billion, electronic components at US$ 275 billion, display devices at US$ 175 billion, AV equipment at US$ 165 billion, and other equipment at US$ 105 billion.
Furthermore, the report highlights a significant surge in exports of electronics goods and components from India, registering a remarkable 50.25% growth over the previous fiscal year. In value terms, the export of electronics goods during the fiscal year 2022-23 is estimated to be US$ 23,578 million, compared to US$ 15,692 million in the previous year.
Telecom exports lead the pack, followed by components, instruments, consumer electronics, and computer hardware. Like in the case of software (IT, BPO, ITeS), the US has become the top destination for electronic hardware exports accounting for 26.32% (US$ 6.21 billion) of the export, followed by UAE, 14.45% (US$3.41 billion), the Netherlands 7.45% (US$1.75 billion), the UK 5.14% (US$1.21 billion), Germany 4.33% (US$1.02 billion), Italy 3.99% US$941 million), Austria 3.38% (US$797 million). Countries like China, Czech, France, etc. also figured among the export destinations. “Various schemes and incentives that were introduced from time to time and reviewed to value add to them will help the sector grow at par with the software sector and even surpass it as the years roll by as the global market space of electronic hardware sector is much larger than IT services;” says Mr. Gurmeet Singh, Executive Director, ESC.
“The runaway increase in exports of electronic goods and components is a good augury riding on the back of accelerated export of smartphones (US$10.95 billion) in 2022-23, as against US$3.80 billion in the previous year forming 46.50% of the total electronic hardware exports from the country and is set to gain momentum in the coming years”; says Mr. Sandeep Narula, Chairman, ESC, adding that export of photovoltaic cells at US$1.03 billion (2022-23) also helped in giving traction to the increased electronics hardware exports.
In terms of state-wise exports of electronics goods from India, Tamil Nadu emerges as the leader, followed closely by Uttar Pradesh. The ESC analysis also made a comparison between export contributions of software and hardware in the country. While the software sector contributed US$193 billion in 2022-23 (estimated), the electronic hardware sector’s contribution toward exports was US$23.58 billion. These findings underscore India’s growing prominence in the global electronics market and reaffirm its position as a key player in the sector.
15, Feb 2024
Strong 2023 performance augurs well for Chennai real estate market in 2024
Chennai, 15 February 2024: With continuous infrastructure upgrades and the commitment of the government to reinforce Chennai’s positioning as an economic and investment hub, the real estate market of the city has grown from strength to strength in recent years. The city not only beat market expectations in 2023 but holds promise of an equally strong performance in 2024. The office market of Chennai breached all earlier highs and recorded more than 2x leasing activity in 2023 as compared to the annual average of the last four years. At the same time, other real estate asset classes like industrial and warehousing, housing and data centers also saw strong traction during the year. Moreover, Tamil Nadu state has seen about USD 2,000-3,000 million of overall FDI inflows in each of the last two fiscal years. The momentum of inflows is likely to continue in the next few years and trickle down to the real estate sector, accelerating the growth of various asset classes.
Chennai’s office leasing touches an all-time high in 2023
During 2023, the city recorded the highest-ever office leasing with 10.5 mn sq ft of gross absorption and made it to the top three list for the first time alongside Bengaluru and Delhi NCR. Technology and BFSI players drove the leasing during 2023 accounting for about half of the total share in leasing activity. Interestingly, leasing by flex players saw a 3X annual rise in the city during 2023. Amidst robust demand, vacancy levels dipped a significant 3.7pp YoY and stood at 16.3% at the end of the year.
The demand momentum is expected to continue into 2024 as well. Furthermore, the city has a pipeline of 4-5 mn sq ft of new Grade A office developments at different stages of construction. The majority of the upcoming supply is likely to be seen in the MPR and PTR micro markets of the city. Under the recent floor-wise denotification of SEZs, Chennai is likely to see an additional supply of office space. As of 2023 end, Chennai had about 26.5 mn sq ft of SEZ office space, at a vacancy level of about 19%. We expect incremental leasing from these spaces as well during the next few quarters.
“The real estate market of Chennai has exceeded expectations during 2023 and is poised for sustained growth in the next few years. The office market has recorded an impressive 10.5 mn sq ft of gross absorption during 2023, driven by OMR Zone 1 and MPR micro markets in the city. Global capability centers (GCCs) also viewed Chennai as an attractive location for space take-up led by cost-effective rentals and the presence of quality Grade A stock. The demand momentum, particularly during the second half of the year 2023, will pave the way for an optimistic start to 2024. Amidst healthy demand, office rentals are likely to firm up by about 3-5% in the next few quarters.” says Arpit Mehrotra, Managing Director, Office Services, Colliers India.
Chennai’s industrial and warehousing leasing activity picked pace during 2023
During 2023, with more than 5 mn sq ft of gross absorption, Chennai saw robust industrial and warehousing leasing demand, an 85% YoY rise, edging ahead of Delhi NCR, the usual front runner. The city accounted for about 20% share in the overall leasing across the top five cities. Key micro markets like Oragadam, NH-48, and NH-16 of Chennai saw the bulk of the demand during the year. While 3PL players dominated the leasing activity with about half of the demand, Engineering players accounted for about 38% demand.
“The city is seeing fast-paced growth with infrastructural upgrades such as the upcoming metro and flyovers that will fuel commercial & residential real estate across key locations of the city. Areas around CBD, OMR Zone 1 stretch of Madhya Kailash–Perungudi and MPR stand to benefit the most. The proposed increase in FSI along the Chennai metro and MRTS corridors holds immense potential for unlocking real estate value for developers & investors along the corridors in the city. Interestingly, Chennai will continue to build upon its data center capabilities and attract significant DC investments in the next 3-4 years” says Vimal Nadar, Senior Director & Head of Research, Colliers India.
Chennai saw highest growth in Data Centre capacity during the post-pandemic period
With over 110 MW Chennai accounts for about 14% of the data centre capacity as of 2023, second highest in the country followed by Mumbai. The city witnessed significant investments for DC in the last few years and with a 3X rise, saw the highest growth in DC capacity in the post-pandemic period. Supported by the upcoming infrastructural growth, presence of sea cables and investments, the sector is likely to see a significant rise in DC supply in the next 3-4 years.
The strong rebound in commercial realty is translating into heightened activity in the residential segment as well. On account of favorable demand-supply dynamics, average housing prices in Chennai have seen a modest annual increase of about 3-5% in 2023. Micro markets like North Ambattur and North and West Thiruvallur have witnessed the highest rise in housing prices. The upcoming metro corridors in (Coastal) Chengalpattu and (West) Poonamallee sub-markets are likely to firm up residential demand in these markets. With the increasing demand for larger apartments, sales of 3 and 4 BHKs are likely to gain traction in 2024.
15, Feb 2024
We need to work towards a future where no region in India is without internet access – Dr Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chair NAAC, NBA, NETF
Bangalore, 15th February 2024: The Institution of Engineering and Technology, a leading global engineering body, successfully concluded its academic round table on ‘Changing face of global engineering – calibrating India’s response’. The roundtable witnessed the successful convergence of industry leaders, academicians and regulatory bodies to chart a standardized industry-first, solution-oriented roadmap for the future of engineering education. The event featured three impact-driven panel discussions focused on paving the way for a more outcome-oriented Indian engineering education system, as per the NEP 2020. The discussion was chaired by Dr. Anil Sahasrabuddhe, Chairman – Chair NAAC, NBA, NETF, and also featured notable speakers such as Dr Amit Dutta, Director, AICTE; Dr Atul Chauhan, Chancellor, Amity University; Prof (Dr) Indranil Manna, President – Indian National Academy of Engineering and Vice Chancellor, BIT, Mesra, Ranchi and Mr Abhijeet Sinha, Program Director, Ease of Doing Business and National Highways for EV (NHEV))
“The IET is dedicated to fostering important discussions that lead to positive changes in the industry. India is rapidly becoming a top choice for Global Capability Centres, thanks to our skilled engineers. But there’s a big problem: the gap between industry and academia is getting wider, hindering our progress. India is also becoming a global powerhouse for engineering education but the quality of this education needs to be world class. This Roundtable will curate a roadmap to bridge this gap and navigate the changing streams of engineering education. These insights will greatly contribute towards shaping the future of engineering education for the next generation of aspiring technologists and thereby the country.”, said Shekhar Sanyal, Country Head and Director, IET India.
The event began with a discussion around ‘Where is Global engineering going and what is the skill gap?’, followed by conversations on ‘Outcome-based Education: Why is it critical?’. Speaking at the event, Dr Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chair NAAC, NBA, NETF, said “We need to train engineers to become lifelong learners and self-learners, as technology developments are advancing at an exponential rate. The digital revolution has greatly improved the accessibility of engineering education. Today, Indian students have access to free courses from leading global institutes like MIT and Harvard, as well as Indian platforms like SWAYAM. We are seeing innovative startups by high-school graduates from non-engineering backgrounds, who have acquired all their knowledge from YouTube. Therefore, we need to work towards a future where no region in India is without internet access, and therefore no region is deprived of learning opportunities.”
“There is still a dire requirement for more hands-on learning opportunities for students through industry-collaborative products and internships. We currently have 1.7 crore students and 75,000+ internship providers on a portal, which uses modern tools like AI to suggest internship opportunities based on the student’s interests, their locality/hometown and the opportunities available in the region. This is particularly essential for students in remote areas and Tier 2/Tier 3 cities.”, he added.
The second panel discussion highlighted that the engineering education system is a victimisation of meritocracy, and raised an important question – “What are we awarding as merit – rote learning or independent thinking?” It further highlighted that teachers are also under immense pressure to deliver learning in just 60 minutes. Additionally, the panel deliberated on the need for institutions to create a formal and transparent student feedback mechanism to assess the efficiency of teachers, rather than simply evaluating them as ‘researchers’. It emphasized the necessity for a revamped evaluation system that considers not only the quantity of research conducted by a professor but also the quality of their teaching.
Speaking on the steps taken by AICTE to bridge learning gaps, Amit Dutta, Director, All India Council for Technical Education, said “We have introduced an intervention through a portal called ‘Parakh’, which serves as a gap analysis tool for both students and faculty members. I’m pleased to share that currently, over six lakh students have registered, and more than 2.5 million students have completed their gap analysis tests. The portal identifies gaps in students’ knowledge before they graduate from the institution, enabling the implementation of necessary remedial measures to address these gaps before the students graduate.”
To address the role of technology in delivering engineering education, the third panel discussion explored how technological advancements shape the methods and approaches used in engineering education, in the context of a dynamic global paradigm. It also identified key initiatives and measures that can position India as an appealing destination for prospective engineering students globally, fostering an environment that nurtures excellence and innovation in the field.
The Institution of Engineering and Technology will present the outcomes and conclusions of the day-long discussion as a policy recommendation roadmap to the Ministry of Education. Additionally, the global engineering body will issue an advisory note to educators and higher education institutes to initiate an actionable roadmap towards improving India’s engineering education ecosystem.
15, Feb 2024
New Nexon continues legacy of Safety – Scores 5-stars in GNCAP rating
Bengaluru, February 15, 2024: Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile manufacturer, announced that the all-new Nexon (ICE), India’s bestselling SUV, has become the latest recipient of the 5-star rating (32.22/34 points) for adult occupant protection and 5-star rating (44.52/49 points) for child occupant protection from Global NCAP, the foremost global car assessment programme. This achievement underscores Tata Motors’ steadfast dedication to safety, as all of its new SUV models have now earned a 5-star rating from Global NCAP.
Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Mohan Savarkar, Chief Product Officer at Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, “Safety is ingrained in our DNA, and we are proud to earn the prestigious 5-star rating from Global NCAP for the new Nexon as per the enhanced 2022 protocol. It was the first car in India to receive 5 star rating from GNCAP in 2018 and it upholds this legacy, showcasing our unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. With this feat, all our new SUVs have now received the GNCAP 5-star rating certifications and have raised the bar for safer SUVs in India. We are dedicated to delivering vehicles that not only surpass expectations but also prioritize the safety of every passenger on the road.”
Nexon stands as a symbol of excellence in the compact SUV segment, having distinguished itself since its debut and earning the admiration of over 6 lakh families. Tata Motors has delighted its customers with the new Nexon, demonstrating a dedication to exceeding customer expectations.
Advanced Safety Features of the new Nexon:
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15, Feb 2024
Survey uncovers misconceptions about Moscow among Indian outbound travellers
The most common myths among Indian tourists about the Russian capital, Moscow were revealed in a recent survey. Intourist, a company with 95 years of background in the inbound tourism market in Russia, conducted a survey among tourists from India who visited Moscow, asking them about their primary expectations for Moscow and the difference from their actual experience. The poll results were used to form a list of popular myths about Moscow, most of which were successfully debunked in the process.
“When a tourist arrives in Moscow, the first thing that comes to a foreigner’s mind is probably the Red Square, all covered in snow (and maybe a layer of red caviar on a giant piece of bread, thanks to the latest Slavic girl trend). Although it is a pretty memorable image, there’s so much more that the Russian capital can give to its visitors”, commented Aleksandr Musikhin, the General Director of Intourist and inbound tourism committee head of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR).
Myth #1: Moscow is cold
Reality: There are four seasons, and the summer is very warm
There are four distinct seasons to fit any taste beginning April. Moscow spring is probably the loveliest of them all with its fresh air, blossoming trees and cafeteria terraces opening all over the city. Summer in the city is usually hot, with a great choice of refreshing activities: you can visit an open pool like Chaika or Luzhniki, explore any of the renovated parks with a glass of lemonade, or even spend a day at the beach of Serebryany Bor. Sure, winters in Moscow are cold, but thanks to well-adjusted heating systems both in the buildings and public transport, freezing isn’t really an option.
Myth #2: Moscow is too Soviet
Reality: Moscow’s architecture is a beautiful eclectic mixture of nearly a thousand years of history
If you take some time to look around the city, a couple of beautiful landmarks from different times will appear just around the corner. Besides Soviet architecture, there are buildings dated with XII-XIX centuries along the ‘bas-reliefs’ from the art nouveau period and shining skyscrapers of the Moscow-City cluster — all for your aesthetic pleasure.
Myth #3: Moscow is one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Reality: There are options for a trip with any budget
According to the EIU rating of 2021, Moscow didn’t even make the top 100 of the annual rich cities list. There are lots of accommodation options, eateries and shopping establishments to fit your desires and financial possibilities: from Stoleshnikov Lane with its boutiques to vast malls such as Europolis or Atrium, where the clothing stores are open side by side with fast-food restaurants, beauty salons, cinemas, playgrounds etc.
Myth #4: There is no decent food in Moscow, except for borscht and pelmeni.
Reality: Moscow is full of the high-quality restaurants with Russian and world cuisines
Setting aside the fact that there’s more to the traditional Russian cuisine than you would first expect, Moscow can offer a hungry tourist a wide range of food options: there are halal and kosher, vegetarian and vegan, European and Asian restaurants all over the city. A homesick Indian tourist can also easily find an authentic eating place serving a ‘Thali’ or a ‘Dosa’ or other Indian vegetarian options.
Myth #5: People in Moscow are mean and unfriendly.
Reality: Moscovites a warm-hearted and helpful
There is a strong stereotype that pictures Russians as people who never smile. Thankfully, any public place in Moscow will prove it wrong in mere seconds. Big city people may not be keen on showing emotions to strangers, yet it usually takes a short dialogue for a change of heart, and most of the people passing by will gladly show you the directions or give a helpful tip if asked.
Myth #6: Moscow is unsafe.
Reality: Crime rate in Moscow is lower than in many European tourist cities.
Moscow is an extremely hi-tech city. Last year, Moscow became the leader among BRICS cities in terms of technological and spatial development. Moscow’s high technological progress also means a high level of development of security systems. Moscow has a “smart city” system – outdoor CCTV cameras and a face recognition system on the streets and in the subway. According to some estimates, the crime rate in Moscow is lower than in many European tourist cities. Being in Moscow you don’t have to worry about your safety.
Myth #7: Nobody speaks English in Moscow.
Reality: Young generation of Moscovites speaks English fluently
Travelling nowadays is a popular hobby among millennials and Gen Z, so the majority of young Moscow residents speak fluent English. Foreign languages are taught in schools and universities, with the addition of online courses and countless apps for personal studies that help to maintain speaking skills — so be sure that you will find help when needed. And if you are not much of a people person, all navigation in Moscow public transport is dubbed in English, so you won’t even have to ask for help since the tourist infrastructure is well-developed.
