15, Feb 2024
NTPC to set up patient-attendant waiting facility at AIIMS under CSR

The country’s largest power generation company, NTPC Ltd has signed an Agreement with All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, on 13th February 2024 to set up a “Patient – Attendant Waiting facility/Shelter” in AIIMSThe proposed facility/shelter will facilitate and accommodate approx. 1,000 patients and their attendants every day 24×7. The facility/Shelter will have separate and specific need-based spaces for men, women, and the physically challenged and equipped with CCTVs, drinking water, a centralized pantry hall, etc. This basic facility will provide security, personal safety & protection from the weather and
also helps patients & their escorts to ease stress apart from providing privacy & safety.

PIC 1- NTPC and AIIMS

Dr. M Srinivas, Director, on behalf of AIIMS New Delhi, and Shri Upendra Mishra, DGM(CSR), CC on behalf of NTPC signed the agreement in the August presence of Shri Neeraj Kapoor, GM(CSR/R&R/LA), NTPC, Senior Doctors from AIIMS, New Delhi and other staff. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in NTPC‘s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)efforts, aiming to enhance healthcare infrastructure and support patient welfare.

15, Feb 2024
Kia India Delivers 71 Specially Customised Carens as Purpose Built Vehicles to Punjab Police

Mumbai, February 15, 2024: After showcasing Carens as Purpose-Built Vehicles at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024, Kia India announced the delivery of 71 specially customised Carens to the Punjab Police. These PBVs will be used as Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) to provide immediate assistance to citizens during emergencies. With its entry into the PBV segment, Kia aims to address the gap of the diverse mobility requirements of specialised institutions in India.

Kia Carens became the preferred mobility choice of Punjab Police on account of its latest technology, connected features, bigger wheelbase, and better 3rd-row comfort.

punjhab police

The customized Carens features a Smartstream 1.5 Petrol engine with a 6-speed Manual transmission. The PBV includes custom High-Intensity Strobe lights, PA Systems, and ‘Dial 112 – Emergency Response Vehicle’ Decals. It features a higher capacity battery of 60Ah to run the additionally fitted equipment. The Carens has the biggest wheelbase in or above its segment making it a most practical choice for Police Departments. Talking about practicality, the specially designed Carens features 2nd row 60:40 split, 3rd row 55:50 split, all rows adjustable headrests, a 12V Power Socket and 5 USB Type-C Ports to offer utmost flexibility to Punjab Police Officials. Like standard Carens models, the PBV also hosts High Strength Steel structure and all the latest technologies like All Wheel Disc Brakes, ABS, Idle Stop & Go and TPMS, to name a few.

Commenting on the delivery of 71 Carens as PBVs, Mr. Myung-sik Sohn – Chief Sales and business Officer, Kia India, said, “Purpose-Based Vehicles (PBVs) represent the future of mobility as they offer the possibility of extensive customization to meet specific mobility requirements. Kia is proud to team up with the Punjab Police in delivering technologically enhanced Carens as PBVs, tailored to offer the best and safest driving experience, particularly for longer journeys. The spacious interiors and comfortable headrests make it an ideal mobility solution.”

“With strategic partnerships like this, we aim to broaden the appeal of a family mover like Carens to all institutions looking for a 7-seater mobility solution.”

The police car and an ambulance based on the Carens were first showcased at the 16th edition of the Auto Expo in 2023. Kia Carens also won the ‘Indian Car of the Year’ honour in the same year. With the delivery of PBV, Kia restates its dedication to addressing the evolving needs in mobility by providing suitable solutions. The PBVs mirror the shifting patterns in mobility, where vehicles are extensively customizable to meet the demands of both customers and the market, resulting in elevated levels of customer satisfaction. The delivery showcases Kia’s vision of becoming a leader in the global PBV segment by 2030.

15, Feb 2024
HDFC Life and Lokmanya Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd. enter into a Corporate Agency Tie-up

Mumbai, February 15, 2024: HDFC Life, one of India’s leading insurers, and Lokmanya Multipurpose Cooperative Society have entered into a corporate agency tie-up that would enable the latter to distribute life insurance products of HDFC Life to its customers.

Established in August 1995, Lokmanya Multipurpose Cooperative Society has more than 200 branches across four states – Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa & Delhi and offers diverse financial products for investment.

There is a need to enhance the reach of life insurance to a significant part of the Indian population and this tie-up is a step in that direction. HDFC Life offers a wide range of life insurance products, designed to meet various life stage needs of individuals. Through this new partnership, HDFC Life could contribute further towards increasing life insurance penetration.

In FY 2023, HDFC Life has secured more than 68 million lives with an overall claim settlement ratio of 99.7%.

Speaking about the new association, Abhijit A. Dixit – Chief Executive Officer, Lokmanya Multipurpose Cooperative Society said, “I am thrilled to announce a significant milestone for our organisation – a new corporate tie-up with HDFC Life. This collaboration makes a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the value we provide to our customers and employees alike.

This alliance reflects our dedication to delivering unparalleled service and customer benefits. By partnering with HDFC Life, we expect our offerings to provide enhanced value and support to our clientele. This partnership represents an important step forward in our journey towards excellence. Together with HDFC Life, we are confident to achieve greater heights and empower our employees and customers alike.”

Speaking on the launch, Suresh Badami – Deputy Managing Director, HDFC Life said, “We are happy to announce our partnership with Lokmanya Multipurpose Cooperative Society. This is another step towards achieving India’s vision of ‘Insurance for All’ by 2047. We hope to leverage our distribution strength and take our insurance solutions to their entire customer base and add value to the partnership.”

15, Feb 2024
Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central organised Painting Competition on International Epilepsy Day to spread awareness on Epilepsy

Mumbai, February 15, 2024 – Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, in a commendable effort to raise awareness about epilepsy, organized a vibrant painting competition on the occasion of International Epilepsy Day. The event, held on February 13, 2024, witnessed enthusiastic participation from hospital nurses, doctors, and paramedical staff, who showcased their artistic talents while advocating for epilepsy awareness.

spread the hope

The theme of the competition, “Epilepsy: Breaking Barriers, Inspiring Hope,” aimed to foster understanding and compassion for individuals living with epilepsy, as well as to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding the condition. Participants were encouraged to express their creativity and insights through their artwork, conveying messages of support, empowerment, and education.

As a neurologist deeply committed to enhancing epilepsy awareness, I am heartened by the remarkable creativity and dedication displayed by our hospital staff in today’s painting competition. Through their artwork, they not only express empathy and solidarity with individuals affected by epilepsy but also contribute significantly to breaking down barriers and fostering understanding. Events like these are essential in our collective effort to create a more inclusive and supportive community for those living with epilepsy.” Said Dr. Prashant Makhija, Consultant Neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central

The competition saw a diverse array of artistic expressions, ranging from poignant portrayals of personal experiences with epilepsy to colorful representations of hope and resilience. Each artwork served as a powerful testament to the creativity and compassion of the hospital staff, as well as their dedication to raising awareness about epilepsy.

The event concluded with an exhibition of the artwork, providing an opportunity for hospital staff and visitors to admire the creativity and passion displayed by the participants. Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote health education and community engagement, with plans for future events aimed at raising awareness about various health issues.

15, Feb 2024
Slow fashion is the way forward: Namrata Joshipura, New York, Fashion Designer of international reputation

Hyderabad, February 15, 2024: Hyderabad’s FLO (FICCI Ladies Organisation) Chapter was invited by FLO National to organise a program in Delhi and its Chair Ritu Shah was invited to be a Day Chair for a session on the Business of the Fashion Industry. The guest speaker of the session was Namrata Joshipura, one of the most celebrated designers of the country, a visionary Fashion Designer whose designs transcend geographical boundaries. Her creations celebrate global aesthetics.

fashion business

The Indian fashion industry has been gaining global recognition for its creativity, diversity and sustainability, said Sudha Shivkumar, FLO National President. The Indian Fashion industry according to many surveys is expected to reach 115 to 125 billion US dollars by the year 2025 and is expected to record a CAGR growth of 11 to 12%.

With the vast array of products and services such as design, production, marketing, retail, etc the fashion industry is a huge fertile market for women entrepreneurs to explore, Sudha said.

This is a novel initiative where FLO chapters are invited to New Delhi and organise a program, which will provide an opportunity for better networking, Sudha shared.

Women empowerment, diversity, and inclusivity are the buzzwords now all over the world. But FLO has been talking about them for the past 40! years, said Ms Sudha.

I had the best of both worlds: New York, where I moved after marriage and New Delhi, the country where I was born. If Delhi has given textiles, colours and what have you, the New York sophistication. I have blended both worlds which still stay in me and are part of my DNA.

Replying to how technology and e-commerce are shaping up the future of the fashion industry, Namrata said both these have already defined the way the industry works. We leveraged it. It did magic, it took as far flying places without much effort. We delivered a product in Kunnur in India and the same week in Saudi Arabia. That is the reach of modern technology.

E-commerce has taken a different turn and has become a mainstay especially during the covid it stayed on.

Replying to Ritu Shah’s question on sustainability, slow and fast fashion, Namrata said that sustainability and fast fashion are not friends and they can never be friends. Slow fashion comes at a cost, the people need to understand it, she said. Slow fashion is the way forward.

While fast fashion emphasizes quick and affordable trends, it often comes at the cost of environmental degradation.

Replying to future industry Namrata said it is a crowded space. There is no entry barrier. You need to have your distinguishing factor to survive.

Sharing details on her return to the city today Ritu Shah said it is an honour bestowed on Hyderabad Chapter.

She said Namrata’s story is not just about fashion; it’s a narrative of empowerment, perseverance, and success.

FICCI FLO embodies the collective power of women’s entrepreneurship; FLO’s mission is to promote economic empowerment and equal opportunities for women. We strive to encourage, motivate, and assist women to showcase their talents, skills, and experiences across various industries and sectors, Ritu Shah said

15, Feb 2024
NODWIN Gaming Private Limited signs definitive agreements to acquire 100% of Ninja

Gurugram: February 15, 2024NODWIN Gaming International Pte Ltd (Godwin Gaming), 100% subsidiary of NODWIN Gaming Private Limited, a material subsidiary of Nazara Technologies Ltd (BSE: NAZARA), The leading gaming and esports media company in emerging markets, has signed definitive agreements to acquire 100% ownership in Ninja Global FZCO (Ninja). Ninja has assets in esports and gaming production assets in Turkey and the Middle East

Outlook-signature_

The acquisition of Ninja into NODWIN Gaming’s global emerging market delivery network is poised to enhance the company’s existing capabilities to offer solutions to publishers and brands in the Middle East and the Turkey region. This acquisition, which comes on the heels of the acquisition of Games Marketing Services company PublishMe in October, solidifies its presence in the rapidly expanding Middle East and Turkish markets.

With this acquisition, Nodwin Gaming has added key multi-language skills making Nodwin Gaming a cost-competitive global delivery and production platform for gaming & esports, capable of delivering world-class experiences across Asia, the Middle East, Turkey, Central Asia, Europe & USA.

This acquisition also readies Nodwin Gaming to expand to Central Asia, where the mobile games market is experiencing rapid growth, across multiplayer and strategy games, driven by the tech-savvy youth population.

Commenting on the acquisition, Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director, of NODWIN Gaming said, “We are thrilled to warmly welcome Gokhan Kazar and Doruk Demisar, Founders of Ninja Dubai and their team into the NODWIN Gaming family, marking a significant addition to our valued network. This strategic acquisition not only unlocks a plethora of new opportunities but also opens doors to numerous fresh possibilities for us as a leading gaming and esports media company. As NODWIN Gaming actively broadens its global footprint, with a special focus on key emerging markets within the new BRICS+ global network, the integration of Ninja is a natural and essential step forward. This move positions us to empower local esports ecosystems, understand, and unlock the potential of multiple emerging markets.”

Ninja stands as a prominent 360° esports and gaming organization. Since its establishment, Ninja has demonstrated excellence in devising and implementing creative strategies for brands and publishers throughout Turkey and the Middle East region. By crafting distinctive and captivating experiences that immerse brands in the realms of esports and entertainment, Ninja has consistently delivered industry-leading experiences to the local community. The agency’s specialized knowledge in navigating the markets of the Middle East and Turkey, coupled with NODWIN Gaming’s strong connections with publishers and brands, as well as their expertise in organizing world-class esports events and securing media rights opportunities, forms a compelling synergy. This synergy creates outstanding value for the entire ecosystem, establishing a remarkable collaboration that leverages the strengths of both entities.

Gokhan Kazar, leveraging his wealth of experience & strategic insights will oversee operations in the Middle East region for NODWIN Gaming. Doruk Demisar along with Bilge Karageyik of PublishMe will collaborate as they spearhead Turkish operations, drawing upon their extensive esports expertise and deep understanding of the local landscape. This strategic alignment positions NODWIN Gaming for continued success and growth across the regions.

15, Feb 2024
HAF.VC launches INR 150 Crore Category I AIF Fund for Startup

Hyderabad, February 15 th, 2024 – HAF has officially launched its maiden Venture Capital Fund, a Category 1 Alternative Investment Fund (AIF), featuring an investable corpus of INR 100 crore and an additional greenshoe option of INR 50 crore. This strategic fund is specifically designed to focus on startups placing a significant emphasis on scalability through technology and AI. Notably, the fund’s management partners, serving as primary investors, allocate the management fee exclusively to fortify the investment team, demonstrating a dedicated commitment to building a resilient foundation for success. In an effort to drive global innovation and expedite the scaling of startups, the fund proactively involves accomplished entrepreneurs as investors.

 Key Highlights:

 Investment Focus: The fund aims to deploy up to INR 5 crore across 20 disruptive startups that are positioned to scale with technology and AI in Pre-Series A/Series A with a strong commitment to follow-on investments to support future growth.

Entrepreneurial Engagement: HAF distinguishes itself by actively seeking successful entrepreneurs as investors, fostering rapid scalability for startups with a robust technology foundation. The overarching goal is to establish a platform where successful entrepreneurs and investors collaborate to build game-changing ventures. The fund encompasses successful entrepreneurs and business leaders in Pharma, Health sciences Tech, Education, Sustainability and other sectors.

 Founders’ Vision: Sri Myneni and Kishore Ganji, Managing Partners of HAF, express a mission that goes beyond funding, by collectively addressing individual challenges and connecting visionary ideas with strategic capital to innovate and grow fast globally. They said, “As serial entrepreneurs and angel investors, we are staunch believers in the transformative force of innovation.  We are building HAF as a dynamic, collaboration-driven platform where founders not only secure financial backing but also tap into the collective wisdom of accomplished Limited Partners (LPs) who themselves are successful entrepreneurs.

 Hyderabad Angels Legacy: Building upon Hyderabad Angels’ decade-long investment acumen, the fund strategically taps into the mentorship of Hyderabad’s serial entrepreneurs and investors across diverse sectors, fostering an impactful catalyst for startup founders to drive innovation and achieve rapid scalability. HAF, drawing on the established platforms and processes created by Hyderabad Angels.

 Leadership Perspective: BVR Mohan Reddy, Founder & Executive Chairman of Cyient, emphasizes the importance of an active engagement platform between LPs/investors and entrepreneurs, positioning HAF at the forefront of driving collaboration. He said, “As an active investor in numerous venture funds and startups, I am of the belief that fostering an active engagement platform between Limited Partners (LPs)/ investors and entrepreneurs is pivotal for creating successful businesses. HAF is constructed with this strategic approach. With direct guidance from many seasoned investors from a diverse array of industries. HAF Collaborative Limited Partners (CLPs) platform will become a dynamic force empowering and cultivating successful ventures,”

 T-Hub’s Perspective: Mahankali Srinivas Rao (MSR), CEO of T-Hub, a well accomplished business leader and an advisor of the fund, acknowledges Hyderabad’s role as the nucleus of the world’s largest innovation hub, stating that HAF is ready to harness the potential inherent in the synergy of funds, direct engagement with industry leaders, and the vibrant startup ecosystem in Hyderabad.

 Catalyzing New India: In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology-driven enterprises, India is positioning itself as the global leader. HAF emerges as a catalyst, committed to accelerating the growth of this new India.

  Website – HAF.VC

15, Feb 2024
BIG FM delves into the intricacies of love with its campaign ‘Yeh Ishq Nahi Aasan’

National, 15th February 2024: It’s that time of the year when love fills the air and we see a special celebration of relationships and togetherness. On the occasion of Valentine’s Day, BIG FM, one of the leading radio networks in the country, presents its campaign, Yeh Ishq Nahi Aasan. It celebrates the essence of love by delving into each phase of a relationship through compelling stories, narrated
exclusively by celebrated storyteller Neelesh Mishra on his popular show ‘Yaadon ka Idiot Box’ onBIG FM. While he will share five captivating stories, the campaign will also feature snippets from the love stories of renowned actors like Shreyas Talpade, Karan Singh Grover, and Bharati Singh amongst others, collectively offering listeners a rich spectrum of love to enjoy.

Creative - BIG FM - ‘Yeh Ishq Nahi Aasan’

Drawing upon the timeless theme of love, the campaign also emphasizes how having a companion can profoundly impact one’s life. From the exhilarating phase of budding romance, where innocence, excitement, and emotional vulnerability reign supreme, to the challenges and joys of building a life together, navigating through career choices, financial planning, and raising a family, the show
explores it all. Each episode delves into the special details that make each couple unique, sharing real stories that vividly express the diverse range of emotions in a relationship.

Talking about the campaign, Sunil Kumaran, COO, of BIG FM, shared, “As we navigate through life’smany emotions, love stands out as a source of hope and connection. Our latest campaign, ‘Yeh Ishq Nahi Aasan’ for Valentine’s Day, is all about celebrating love with all its complexities, serving as our heartfelt tribute to its enduring power. Through different stories, we endeavor to weave together
tales that beautifully reflect the essence of human relationships. We aim to inspire, uplift, and remind our listeners that love is truly the greatest gift we can share.”

The campaign is extensively promoted across platforms with listeners embarking on this unique journey of love with their favorite storyteller.

15, Feb 2024
Ruby Hall Clinic expands Critical Care Services with New ICU

Mumbai/Pune: Ruby Hall Clinic inaugurates its latest addition: a cutting-edge Intensive Care Unit (ICU), further strengthening its position as a leader in critical care medicine. This new facility, featuring 12 beds, including 2 private ones, marks a significant enhancement to the hospital’s existing critical care infrastructure.

Ruby Hall Clinic

The inauguration of the new ICU was made possible through the generous philanthropy of Maharookh and Farrokh N Cooper of Cooper Corporation. The Coopers, esteemed philanthropists, have consistently demonstrated their commitment to healthcare advancement at Ruby Hall Clinic, contributing significantly to various initiatives, from donating ambulances to upgrading the NTU to supporting pediatric cardiac surgeries in underserved populations. In the last four years alone close to 100 children have undergone life-changing cardiac surgeries.

Mr. Farrokh N. Cooper, Chairman and Managing Director, Cooper Corporation Pvt. Ltd said, “I am honored to contribute towards the enhancement of Critical Care Services at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune. In times of need, it is crucial to strengthen our healthcare infrastructure. My heartfelt appreciation to Ruby Hall Clinic for their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional healthcare. Together, let us strive for a healthier and more resilient community.”

Dr. P.K. Grant, Chairman and Managing Trustee, of Ruby Hall Clinic said, “Ruby Hall Clinic is thankful to have individuals like the Coopers, whose unwavering commitment to philanthropy has left an indelible mark on our institution. Through their diverse and generous contributions, ranging from essential medical equipment to vital support for vulnerable populations, they have transformed the way we deliver care.”

14, Feb 2024
Aditya Institute of Management Studies and Research hosts Academic IT & Operations Conclave

conclave 24

Mumbai, 14th February’24: The 2024 IT & Operations Conclave was skillfully organised by AIMSR & ASBM, with the theme:

“Emerging Technologies: Operations & Beyond” and visionaries from a variety of backgrounds debating the direction of education in India.

The panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Rishi Sareen, Director-Technology at DTDC Express Ltd, featured esteemed speakers: Mr. Rajesh Patil, CTO, Asfaleia Information Systems; Mr. Kiran Belsekar, EVP, CISO & IT Governance, Aegon Life; Mr. Vinod Marar, Head Supply Chain, CEAT Ltd.; and Mr. Ajinkya Vaze, Associate Program Manager, Merkle Pvt. Ltd. They delved into the topic “Exploring Ethical Frontiers: AI in Modern Business Operations.”

The insightful and thought-provoking speech by Capgemini India’s Senior Director, Dr. Prasad Ramanathan, focused on how evolving technology impacts people and processes. A special thank you to Mr. Sreenivas Rao of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Global Head of Supply Chain, for his insightful presentation on incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning into daily operations.

Commenting on the conclave, Dr. Sunita Srivastava, Dean Management and Director, AIMSR said, “The common buzzword in the boardroom of organizations is Industry 5.0 which is all about data and platforms. She introduced the theme of the IT and Operations Conclave as: “Emerging Technologies, Operations and Beyond”. She also added that from enhancing operational efficiency to creating entirely new business models, technologies are driving unprecedented transformations across industries. AI and ML enable businesses to automate processes, analyse vast amounts of data and derive actionable insights. IoT enhances visibility and responsiveness in various operational aspects. The decentralized nature of blockchain technology reduces the risk of fraud and errors, promoting trust among stakeholders. AR and VR technologies are transforming the way businesses operate by providing immersive experiences. Robotics and automation technologies are reshaping industries by replacing repetitive and manual tasks.”