12, Dec 2023
ace turtle and Toys“R”Us® Open Largest Flagship High Street Toy Store in Mumbai
Mumbai, December 11, 2023: ace turtle, new India’s leading technology-native retail company today announced the launch of the new Toys“R”Us® flagship store in Mumbai. Spread across an expansive five-storeyed building illuminated with the brand’s signature stars, this is the largest high street toy store in India of Toys“R”Us®, the world’s leading authority on toys and play.
Located in the bustling Linking Road area, the flagship store redefines the toy shopping experience by offering convenience and accessibility to families with an extensive collection of top international brands such as LEGO, Hasbro, Mattel, alongside beloved Indian brands like Playshifu, Funskool and Winmagic. Toys“R”Us kids of all ages will experience the magic of play with interactive elements throughout the flagship, photo-op with Geoffrey the Giraffe, and branded experiences from top toy brands.
Sharing the global brand’s perspective at the launch, Stanley Silverstein, Chief Commercial Officer, WHP Global, the parent company of Toys“R”Us® said, “We are thrilled to open this store with our partner ace turtle as we continue to expand the Toys“R”Us brand through new concepts and new locations across India. India, the fastest-growing large economy with the world’s largest population of 0–14-year-olds is a significant part of our global expansion plans. We believe this flagship store fully captures the perfect mix of retail and entertainment making it a highly sought after destination for families year-round.”
Commenting on the launch, Nitin Chhabra, CEO, ace turtle said, “We are excited to introduce the globally renowned Toys“R”Us® experience for kids with the launch of our new flagship store in Mumbai. The store reflects our commitment to providing families, especially children, with a lively and engaging experience. Our aim is to offer more than just a visit – we want families to enjoy a memorable and delightful time together, creating moments of joy and recreation. We believe there is tremendous potential for organized toy retailing in India given the fast-growing customer base. We look forward to expanding our reach by opening several more stores across the country. The expansion of Toys“R” Us® will contribute to the Government of India’s “Make in India” initiative by accelerating toy manufacturing in the country.”
In June 2021, Ace Turtle entered a joint venture with the Flipkart Group’s Wholesale Entity in India to acquire the license of Toys“R”Us in India. Earlier this year, ace turtle unveiled the first Toys“R” Us store in India in Hyderabad which has received a phenomenal response from customers. Additionally, customers across India have been shopping for their favorite toys from the online store www.toysrus.in.
- 0
- By Rabindra
12, Dec 2023
Digitization revolutionizing the job industry; 2.1L SMBs and 400 enterprise hired online using apna in 2023; projected to triple by FY25
Mumbai, 12th December 2023: Aiming to empower and create a level playing field for all job seekers across industries, Apna – India’s largest jobs and professional networking platform has recorded a remarkable success in enabling SMBs and Enterprises in 2023. The year, Apna facilitated 56 million job applications across blue, grey, and white collar sectors for 2.1 lakh SMBs and 400 enterprises. This surge has driven remarkable growth, with the total user base on the platform reaching 51 million, and aims to enable 3x more businesses by FY25.
The company also recorded a 42% jump in its total recruiter base in 2023. As a trusted partner for SMBs and enterprises in India, apna.co helps them find skilled employees. Over the last year, Apna has been helping India’s leading Enterprises like Swiggy, Axis Bank, Paytm, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Blinkit, Reliance Jio, Zepto, Aditya Birla Capital, Apollo Pharmacy and many more to solve their hiring needs. The platform’s user-friendly interface and extensive user base simplify the hiring process, offering employers access to a diverse talent of skilled professionals. As a result, businesses have witnessed streamlined recruitment processes, faster candidate placements, and increased workforce satisfaction.
Apna’s users can now apply via Web, Mobile, WhatsApp and Email. Delving into the 56 million job applications, 18% stemmed from jobs across blue-collar job roles, covering roles such as Delivery, Driver, Warehouse and Logistics Staff, Restaurant Staff, and Technician. 66% of the applications came from grey-collar job roles mainly for Field Sales, Telesales, Telecaller/BPO, Back Office, and Data Entry. Over 16% job applications came in White Collar roles such as Accountant, Enterprise Sales and management, Digital Marketing, HR Professionals, Teacher, Doctor, IT Support and Software.
As a professional network for users, Apna’s network graph crossed 1.2 billion user connections. Reflecting on these new milestones, Nirmit Parikh, Founder & CEO, Apna, said, “We are glad to see Apna becoming the platform of choice for recruiters across the country. Our mission at Apna has always been to create a one-stop platform that enables job seekers to build successful careers and professional networks.”
33% of the 56 million applications were sent by females, demonstrating a significant increase in female participation in the job market. In 2023, Apna also saw 25% growth in median salary of female users, surpassing the 17% increase observed among male users. Interestingly, Apna saw 25% growth in median salary for jobs posted in T3 cities, while T1 cities saw 14% growth in median salary – indicating a growing demand for talent and rising salaries in T3 cities.
Talking about the breadth of applications He further added, “This reinforces our unwavering commitment to providing equal opportunities across the entire professional spectrum, spanning from blue-collar to white-collar professionals. The lines between blue, grey, and white collar need to be even more blurred and Apna wants to play a significant role in making this happen. Today Apna has evolved beyond being just a platform. It’s a movement.”
In the past year, Apna has collaborated with esteemed partners such as Vi, Generation India Foundation, DGR Ministry of Defence team, NSDC, and Swiggy. These strategic alliances underscores Apna’s commitment to fostering diverse and impactful initiatives that not only contribute to the local job market but also actively contribute to the advancement of skill development on a broader scale.The platform is accessible across 600+ Indian cities.
12, Dec 2023
Pacific World School Triumphs at District-Level Gymnastics Championship
11th December 2023, DELHI- NCR: Students of Pacific World School marked outstanding achievements at the District Level Gymnastics Championship held at Vijay Shri Academy, Sec 141, Noida, from December 9th to 10th, 2023. The championship, also serving as selection trials for the State Level, witnessed the commendable performance of 10 participants from the school in both Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics across various categories.
Among the exceptional achievers, Aanya Goel, from Grade 8, stole the limelight with an outstanding performance, winning 5 gold medals and standing as the all-around first position holder in the Rhythmic category for Under-15. Jazveen Kaur from Grade 8 showcased remarkable skills, bagging 5 silver medals and securing an all-around second position in the Under-15 rhythmic category.
Diya Jain of Grade 6 showcased her prowess by winning 1 gold and 4 bronze medals, securing an all-around 3rd position in the Under-12 Rhythmic category. Honnesha Choudhary, from Grade 6, clinched 2 gold and 2 silver medals, emerging as the all- round first position holder in the Under-12 category. The selected students will now represent Pacific World School at the upcoming UP State Level Gymnastics Championship scheduled for January 2024.
Sharing her delight at the achievements, Ms. Pooja Bose, Principal, Pacific World School, said, “I want to congratulate our brilliant gymnasts for their remarkable achievements at the District Level Gymnastics Championship. Their dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent have brought immense pride to Pacific World School. We look forward to their continued success as they move on to represent the school at the State Level Championship. This achievement reflects our faculty’s commitment to fostering excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities, creating well-rounded individuals.”
12, Dec 2023
Taste of GOILA: Master Chef Saransh Goila’s GOILA Butter Chicken is making its way to Rajasthan
Goila Butter Chicken, the culinary masterpiece founded by the renowned Indian MasterChef Saransh Goila and Vivek Sahani, is all set to take you on an unforgettable gastronomic journey in Rajasthan. They are now introducing their branches in various cities across Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur.
Originating in the bustling heart of Mumbai in 2016, Goila Butter Chicken has become a true ambassador of authentic Indian cuisine. The brand reinvented the iconic Butter Chicken while staying true to the rich heritage of Indian cuisine, embracing its original flavors and delivering a taste that resonates with your soul. Not just butter chicken! Veg or Non-Veg, Side dishes or Main course, their North Indian menu is equally savory and smoky.
This event features an array of signature dishes that have garnered nationwide acclaim. Master Chef Saransh Goila, the creative force behind the brand, brings his passion and expertise to every dish such as the Goila Butter Chicken, Goila Butter Paneer, Naan Bombs, Classic Chicken Tikka, and Dal Makhani to name a few. Each dish is meticulously crafted to showcase the distinctiveness of Goila Butter Chicken.
According to Co-founder Saransh Goila, “Rajasthan holds a special place in my heart, and it is an honour to bring our culinary creations to the enchanting cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur. Our vision is to provide not just a meal, but a culinary journey that celebrates the spirit and diversity of this incredible region.”
Whether you’re a connoisseur of traditional cuisine or an adventurous foodie seeking new thrills, this pop-up is designed to captivate every palate.
Get ready to embrace the aromatic symphony, savour the legendary taste, and relish the experience that is Goila Butter Chicken!
12, Dec 2023
“Manthan 2023” Conclave at Iim Kashipur Sheds Light on Cross-domain Synergies for Global Challenges
Mumbai, Dec 12, 2023: Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur, organized the intellectual symposium “MANTHAN 2023” on December 9th, offering a platform for industry luminaries to explore the theme of “Cross-domain Synergies for Addressing Global Challenges.”
The conclave, organized by the Industry Interaction Committee at IIM Kashipur, featured an exceptional roster of speakers, each a pioneer in their respective fields. The distinguished guests included Lokesh Natoo, India Head of Altus Group; Abhishek Gupta, CMO at Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance, Ribhu Shadwal, VP & Head of Engineering at Airtel; Siddharth Desai, Senior Vice President at Citi Group; and Ashish Singh Joshi, CEO of Classic Legends (Jawa, Yezdi, BSW).
The event unfolded with a compelling discussion titled “Current Business Outlook,” where each speaker shared insights derived from their professional journeys. Lokesh Natoo, India Head of Altus Group, provided thought-provoking perspectives on balancing the three P’s – People, Processes, and Profits. The discourse further touched upon the role of inter-domain synergies in capability development and the leadership’s responsibility in fostering soft skills amidst the rise of artificial intelligence.
Ashish Singh Joshi, CEO of Classic Legends, shared the challenges faced while bringing iconic brands to the global stage and emphasized the transformative power of cross-domain initiatives in fostering innovation. The impact of COVID-19 on uncertainty, talent management strategies in the new normal, and the role of cross-functional collaboration were also addressed by the speakers, providing a holistic understanding of the evolving business landscape.
Ribhu Shadwal, VP of Engineering at Airtel, shed light on the rapid adaptations in the telecommunications industry, navigating technological advancements and the role of process-driven systems in organizational synergies. The discussions also explored the manifestation of cross-domain synergies in the post-COVID era and the potential to ease challenges posed by diverse geographies.
Siddharth Desai, Senior Vice President at Citi Group, shared success stories of cross-functional collaborations within the banking sector, highlighting the delicate balance between specialization and establishing synergies across functions. The conversation extended to fostering a culture of agility and adaptability in response to global disruptions, with a focus on incorporating sustainability dimensions in business.
Abhishek Gupta, CMO at Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance, illuminated the positive disruptions caused by COVID-19 in the insurance sector and explored the role of inter-domain synergies in managing and monetizing these disruptions. The speakers delved into rapid digitalization, emerging trends, and leadership’s pivotal role in fostering cross-functional collaboration and learning.
An engaging Q&A session between students and speakers added an interactive dimension, providing students with an opportunity to glean insights directly from industry leaders.
12, Dec 2023
Jason Chen, Global Chairman and CEO of Acer visits India – Announces Make in India Commitment, Market Expansion, and Growth Through Conscious Technology
India, 12th December 2023– On his visit to India, Jason Chen, Chairman and CEO of Acer reinforced the company’s commitment to the thriving Indian market with strategic initiatives aimed at fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability. As India solidifies its position as a pivotal market for Acer, the company unveils comprehensive expansion plans, transcending domains to venture into new segments like consumer electronics, eMobility, and AI PCs with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly products.
Acer’s strategic move aligns seamlessly with the unique needs of the Indian market, as evidenced by the introduction of air and water purifiers tailored to local requirements. Complementing this commitment is Acer’s dedication to the ‘Make in India’ initiative which has a two-decade legacy, exemplifying its efforts to enhance the nation’s manufacturing ecosystem. In collaboration with local ODMs, Acer has been championing local manufacturing for ‘Make in India’ with IT hardware products like laptops, desktops, tablets, servers, workstations, PC monitors, and more with a manufacturing capacity of over 3 million units annually.
Mr. Jason Chen, Chairman and CEO of Acer Inc., expressed his optimism about the Indian market, stating, “As we set our sights on the dynamic and rapidly growing Indian market, I am truly optimistic about the immense opportunities it presents for Acer. The Indian landscape is a thriving ground for innovation and expansion, and we believe in the potential of the Indian consumer base. Acer is committed to delivering cutting-edge technology, including AI PCs, that aligns seamlessly with their evolving needs through conscious technology.”
Beyond traditional computing, Acer is venturing into the broader realm of computer science, particularly artificial intelligence products. The company’s enthusiasm for the transformative potential of Generative AI is evident in its forward-looking stance. Acer is actively pioneering this technological shift by developing AI-powered PCs poised to redefine user interactions with computers. Acer’s investments in AI extend across diverse applications, including IC design chips, and groundbreaking initiatives within the medical field.
During its recent Dubai COP28 Acer Global Press Conference, the company introduced its forward-looking “Conscious Technology” vision, emphasizing the creation of technology with a focus on future considerations. Acer has also pledged a commitment to achieving carbon neutrality for its Aspire Vero laptop line, beginning with the latest Aspire Vero 16 model. Acer has also joined the RE100 initiative and committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity by 2035. It has also pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. As one of the world’s top ICT companies, Acer seeks to amplify positive impacts on the environment through united actions; 60% of its critical suppliers have committed to RE100 or set science-based carbon reduction targets (SBT). Acer has set a goal to use 20-30% post-consumer recycled plastic in its computers and monitors by 2025, for which 17% use was achieved in 2022.
Acer’s expansion and innovation initiatives underscore its dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancement, shaping the future landscape of the industry.
12, Dec 2023
Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. collaborates with leading Charge Point Operators to setup over 10,000 charging stations by FY25
Bengaluru, 12 December 2023: Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. (TPEM), pioneers of India’s EV revolution, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with leading charge point operators (CPOs), Chargezone, Glida, Statiq, and Zeon, to further develop India’s charging infrastructure.
This MoU crucially builds on the significant existing presence of each operator in the charging ecosystem and TPEM’s unique telematics insights basis more than 1.15 lakh Tata EVs on Indian roads. TPEM will actively assist the four CPOs in installing chargers at locations most frequented by its EV owners and share insights on how the chargers are being used to help understand and enhance customer experience.
Chargezone, Glida (formerly known as Fortum Charge & Drive India), Statiq, and Zeon are leading CPOs in the country, with a combined network of nearly 2,000 charging points across key cities. The robust charging ecosystem built by these operators forms the backbone upon which India’s transition to sustainable mobility is already happening. Through this collaboration, the CPOs intend to roll out over 10,000 additional charging points within the next 12-15 months.
Through this MoU, TPEM will also work with Chargezone, Glida, Statiq, and Zeon to explore the possibility to roll-out out a smart payment gateway through co-branded RFID cards respectively, that will enable ease of payment for Tata EV users. Furthermore, customers can avail benefits of loyalty programs from these respective CPOs and access a dedicated customer care number for any assistance.
Speaking at the MoU signing, Mr. Balaje Rajan, Chief Strategy Officer, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “EV adoption is a national imperative to address urban pollution, and convenient charging infrastructure is a key enabler for driving faster EV adoption. The need of the hour for accelerating a nationwide charging ecosystem is open collaboration, and we are delighted to announce our strategic collaboration with Chargezone, Glida, Statiq, and Zeon, to accelerate India’s journey towards e-mobility. This collaboration will benefit from TPEM’s unparalleled EV usage insights, coupled with the CPOs’ innovative charging solutions and entrepreneurial spirit, and create 10,000+ additional charging points in the country by FY25.”
Global case studies consistently demonstrate how widespread and easily accessible charging infrastructure is a crucial element of the EV ecosystem. The expansion of charging infrastructure has been shown to lead to a significant increase in the adoption of EVs. This innovative open collaboration between major CPOs and TPEM is anticipated to expedite the development of charging infrastructure in the nation, thereby playing a pivotal role in making EV adoption more widespread.
Since its inception, TPEM has been maintaining a close collaboration with Tata Power to develop charging infrastructure, resulting in over 4,900 public chargers across the country. Furthermore, the two companies also launched the EZ Charge Card – a RFID card that allows customers to initiate charging with a tap. In addition to this, a strategic alliance with BPCL aims to set up 7,000 chargers over the next year.
Commenting on the MoU, Kartikey Hariyani, Founder and CEO, of CHARGE ZONE, said, “With the industry witnessing a high-growth phase of electric mobility, we have been working with automotive OEMs for strategic partnerships and a collaborative approach towards building reliable high-speed charging infrastructure. Our collaboration with Tata Motors now signals the intent to provide a seamless experience to the EV users of various ranges of electric cars including Nexon.ev, Tigor EV, Tiago.ev and the upcoming models from its stable.”
Commenting on the MoU, Awadhesh Kumar Jha, Executive Director, GLIDA, said, “Glida and TPEM collaboration comes at an opportune moment, enabling an accelerated EV adoption in India. The partnership opens up opportunities for further enhancing charging infrastructure at favourable customer touch points, increasing reach on highway and city centres, convenient discovery & status of charging infrastructure on EV dashboard, thus putting ‘customer experience’ at the core of this partnership. We are hopeful both Glida and TPEM would strive harder together to meet EV users requirements and provision charging and associated service delivery of the highest standards.”
Commenting on the MoU, Akshit Bansal, Founder & CEO, Statiq, said, “At Statiq, we share common values with TPEM – a dedication to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. This partnership represents more than just a business tie-up; it’s a testament to our shared vision for the future of mobility. Together, we aim to redefine the EV landscape, introducing cutting-edge technologies and pioneering solutions that will shape the industry for years to come.”
Commenting on the MoU, Karthikeyan KP, MD & CEO, Zeon Charging, said, “At Zeon Charging we believe that it is not just enough have chargers, but it is more important to have charging stations that customers can rely upon. Today we are very excited to announce our partnership with TPEM. TPEM has led the nation’s charge in EVs, and in-essence has made our existence relevant. Our collaboration would help us build a charging ecosystem that is convenient, comprehensive, and relevant EV owners.
And most importantly our association would help build a network that EV owners can count on. There are extensive insights that TPEM as a leading EV OEM can bring to this partnership to help Zeon build a robust EV charging ecosystem. As a leading charge point operator our insights and data on charging behaviors and patterns wound prove invaluable to help TPEM enhance their products and customer experience. Together we are Energizing India’s Transition to Sustainable Mobility.”
12, Dec 2023
Crafting a Sustainable Future by Nurturing the Crafts and the Craftspersons of India
Mumbai, December 12, 2023: Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad organised a Thought Leadership Seminar and Thematic Fashion Show on 8 th December, and an Exhibition on 8th & 9th December 2023 at World Trade Centre, Colaba Mumbai under Project Handmade in India (HMI) supported by HSBC. Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad is the implementation partner in the project HandMade in India. Six clusters – Kamrup in Assam, Bargarh in Orissa, Bhuj and Surendranagar in Gujarat, Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh and Salem in Tamil Nadu are being supported and handheld under the project HandMade in India.
The Exhibition has products on display from the six clusters covered under the project HMI. A total of 25 stalls have been set up with EDII-trained artisans and craftspersons participating in it.
The event was inaugurated by Chief Guest, Mr. Romit Sen, Sr. Vice President, Corporate Sustainability, HSBC India and Guest of Honour, Shri Satya Prasad Verma, Additional Textile Commissioner and CEO of Textiles Committee, Mumbai. Also present on this important occasion were: Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII; Dr. Raman Gujral, Director, Department of Projects (Corporate), EDII and other senior officials from government ministries/departments and corporate leaders & entrepreneurs from noted organizations.
The event began with a thematic Fashion Show which emphasized sustainability under the theme of ‘Crafting a Sustainable Future: Handmade in India’ and ‘Inspiring Heritage, Empowering Futures: Handlooms in Modern India.’ Every ensemble narrated a tale of timeless artistry, honoring India’s rich cultural heritage while giving a message of embracing sustainability and empowerment. The designers used the fabric developed by EDII trained artisans under project HMI to make garments for models.
A Thought Leadership Workshop was organized post the fashion show which was attended by stakeholders including policy makers, industry professionals, practitioners, weavers and artisans. Panel discussion topics included ‘Inspiring Heritage, Empowering Futures: Handlooms in Modern India’ and ‘Crafting a Sustainable Future: Handmade in India’. EDII’s model of reviving certain crafts on the verge of extinction was elaborately shared. The replicability of the model for different crafts in different states, was evaluated as well as best practices were reviewed.
In his address, Chief Guest Mr. Romit Sen, Sr. Vice President, Corporate Sustainability, HSBC India said, “HSBC’s HMI project has focused on skilling and empowering artisans by ensuring sustainable livelihood options for them. Today these trained craftspersons are financially independent and are in a much better place to think creatively and implement winning business strategies for growth. They are the custodians of India’s art and craft.”
Shri Satya Prasad Verma, Additional Textile Commissioner and CEO of Textiles Committee, Mumbai said, “The textiles sector plays a pivotal role in the economic and cultural development of our nation. Through concerted efforts and strategic initiatives, we are witnessing tangible progress in this sector. The exhibition featuring products from diverse clusters is a testament to the success of collaborative endeavours. The government remains committed to supporting such initiatives.”
Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII in his opening remarks said, “In the pursuit of a sustainable future, EDII is committed to bringing about progress and development in the lives of artisans through its various initiatives under Project HMI. Nurturing and empowering artisans and weavers of the country is a dire need as this is the only way we can preserve the rich cultural heritage of India.”
According to Mr. Raman Gujral, “I am happy at the success of this programme. The fashion show and the exhibition depict the potential of our crafts and craftspersons. We need to nurture their skills and ensure their growth as business people.”
12, Dec 2023
Engineering, Electronics, and E-commerce reports an increase in Net Apprenticeship Outlook Report by TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship
● Key Industries, Cities, and Categories Illuminate a Promising Landscape for Apprenticeships in India
● Engineering and Industrial Sector Dominates with 96% E-commerce and Tech Products Show Strong Performance at 90% in NAO
Mumbai, December 12 2023: In a landmark revelation, TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship unveils the 2023 Apprenticeship Outlook Report, showcasing an unprecedented 75% surge in apprenticeship opportunities across India which exhibits a noteworthy 9% growth over the quarter of Jan-Mar 2023. The Net Apprenticeship Outlook (NAO) metric, a key indicator of employer sentiment, has reached an all-time high, signaling a remarkable 75% increase in employer intent for apprenticeship engagement during the upcoming October-March 2023-24 half-year.
The Net Apprenticeship Outlook (NAO) has increased significantly Year-Over-Year (YOY), from 41% in Jan-Jun 2021 to 56% in Jan-Jun 2022 and 66% in Jan-Mar 2023 to an astounding 75% for the Oct-Mar 2023–24 period. This Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of nearly 30% showcases how organizations view apprenticeships as a pivotal talent development strategy, driving skill enhancement, workforce development, and talent pipeline creation.
The HY1 Apr-Sep’23 and HY2 Oct’23 to Mar’24 Apprenticeship Outlook Report reveals a compelling landscape, highlighting Engineering & Industrial (96%), Electrical & Electronics (94%), Telecom (93%), and Ecom & Tech products (90%) as the leading sectors with the highest Net Apprenticeship Outlook (NAO). Notably, these industries, along with five others, witnessed a significant increase in NAO during the Oct-Mar 2023-24 half-year compared to the preceding quarter. This trend indicates robust growth prospects for apprenticeships, affirming their pivotal role in shaping the workforce of the future.
The Apprenticeship Outlook Report brings to light a pivotal insight—41% of employers believe that degree apprenticeships stand as a formidable strategy to effectively address the skill gap through seamless industry-academia collaboration. This recognition underscores the transformative role of apprenticeships in shaping a future-ready workforce, emphasizing a strategic commitment to talent development, skill enhancement, and the establishment of a robust talent pipeline. As the report illuminates, this insight marks a significant leap toward fostering a skilled and promising future for India’s workforce.
This extraordinary surge underscores the robust growth anticipated in India’s apprenticeship landscape, with key cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi, and Hyderabad leading the charge. The report unveils a transformative phase for India’s workforce, promising unparalleled opportunities for skill development and career growth.
Employer satisfaction and reasons for apprentice engagement
An encouraging 70% of employers engaged apprentices during April-September HY1, 2023, with 63% expressing satisfaction with apprentice performance. Employers cited ‘addressing skill shortages,’ ‘cost-effective talent development,’ and ‘strengthening community engagement and CSR efforts’ as major reasons for engaging apprentices.
Gender preferences and workforce expansion anticipation
While 45% of employers have no gender preferences, others showcase a preference for female candidates, especially in Services sectors like BFSI (21%), Retail (18%), and in Manufacturing sector are Engineering & Industrial (20%), Automobile & Ancillaries (17%) and Electrical & Electronics (13%). Additionally, 47% of employers anticipate a workforce increase of up to 10% during HY2: Oct – Mar, 2023-24 , signifying a positive trajectory for apprentice engagement.
City-wise Trends: Bangalore leads with a 17% increase in NAO
Among the metro cities, five out of six exhibit an increase in NAO for the Oct-Mar 2023-24 half-year, Bangalore leading with an impressive 85%, followed by Delhi at 82% and Hyderabad at 80%.The top three industries engaging apprentices in Bangalore are Engineering & Industrial (89%), BFSI (86%), and Retail (82%).
Employer strategies and structured training programs
Structured training programs (53%) and regular mentoring and coaching (41%) emerge as the preferred strategies for engaging apprentices, reflecting a commitment to their development. A significant 78% of employers report that over half of their apprentices successfully complete their training.
Top reasons for employers foreseeing an increase in apprenticeship hiring include real-time skill availability (35%) and business growth (21%). These statistics underscore the vital role apprentices play in contributing to tangible business outcomes.
Apprenticeship categories in demand
Optional Trade (82%), Designated Trade (80%), and Diploma Apprenticeship (77%) top the list of sought-after apprenticeship categories. Fitter/Mechanical Assembly (31%), Production Engineer (26%), and Computer Networking Technician (19%) are the most in-demand career opportunities in Optional/Designated Trade, while Machinist (22%), Production Apprentice (16%), and Mechanic (12%) are the top three roles in Trade Apprenticeships. In a Diploma Apprenticeship, the roles are Technical Service Engineer (25%), Machine Operator (18%), and Data Analyst (15%). In Graduate Apprenticeships, positions such as Electrical and Electronics Engineer (25%), Mechanical Engineer (17%), and Automobile Engineer (14%), are highly sought after.
Sumit Kumar, Chief Business Officer at TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, remarked, “It’s encouraging to note that the percentage of businesses eager to boost their apprentice involvement in the quarter has improved as India Inc. continues to recognize the value of apprenticeships in building a robust talent pool. Over the last three years, the net apprenticeship outlook has gone up from 41% in 2021 (Jan – June 2021) to 75% (Oct 23 – March 24) which is an all-time high. The primary reasons driving the growth are real-time skill availability, cost-effectiveness, and driving community engagement under CSR. Also, initiatives from Govt. like PLI and Make in India are driving the employment opportunities for which employers are relying on apprenticeships to build a talent pipeline. 63% of employers have reported satisfactory performances of the apprentices, which is encouraging for employers to scale up the intake. Employers are beginning to realize that apprenticeships linked to a degree are much more effective and impactful in attracting the youth for apprenticeships and also longer engagements. Anticipating a promising trajectory for apprenticeship engagement in India throughout fiscal 2023, degree apprenticeship is emerging as the modern Nayi Talim, which can yield socio-economic growth for the country. Apprenticeships or work-based programs can help balance the GER with the employability factor to lead India on the path to becoming the skill capital of the world. Evidently, the impetus from the PLI and NEP and the rise of academia-industry collaboration to expand degree apprenticeships are major contributors to the ecosystem. Additionally, gender neutrality in apprentice engagement is evident amongst employers across industries. Manufacturing exhibits a greater level of gender neutrality, especially in Engineering & Industrial (20%), Automobile & Automobiles (17%), and Electrical & Electronics (13%).”
Dhriti Prasanna Mahanta, Vice President at TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, emphasized, “Apprenticeships emerge as the key to unlocking greater opportunities for female candidates in the evolving retail sector of India.” In the retail industry, the percentage of women working is 25–30%, while it is 60–75% in the US and the UK. It is evident that a considerable increase in the women’s labor participation rate is facilitated by apprenticeships. HR leaders highlight that apprenticeships will not only influence the talent pool in technology, services, and retail in the future but will also serve as a beacon for closing the gender gap. The total number of apprentices employed over the last five years has increased by 30%, and growth in the retail, BFSI, and logistics industries is predicted to reach 67% during the next 3 years”
12, Dec 2023
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia showcases its vast culture during Artigiano in Fiera 2023
Milan, 12th December 2023 – The Saudi Ministry of Culture participated with a National Pavilion at Artigiano in Fiera, a global village of arts and crafts, displaying items, foods, and beverages from various corners of the globe for more than two decades. It advocates for artisans, creators of beauty and goodness, presenting distinctive, high-quality products that honor both nature and people. This year’s edition took place in Rho, Milan, from December 2 to 10.
Artigiano in Fiera is now the world’s biggest trade fair of its kind, celebrated for its unique blend of positivity and beauty. With a layout organized by regions, the event brings together thousands of artisans for 9 days in Milan. Representing over 100 countries, these artisans showcase a wide range of products from food and textiles to design, furniture, personal care, and fashion.
Antonio Intiglietta, President of Ge.FI., expressed pride in Saudi Arabia’s presence, stating, “After last year’s success, we are extremely proud of Saudi Arabia’s renewed presence, this year among the largest stands at the fair. We recommend all Italians to discover the wonderful traditions of Saudi culture.”
At the Saudi Pavilion, attendees explored various traditional crafts, including the UNESCO-recognized Al-Qatt Al-Asiri—a unique form of traditional interior wall decoration crafted by skilled female artisans from the Southern region. The exhibition also highlighted the ancient artistry of Al Sadu, a traditional weaving technique passed down by the Central region’s women through generations. This curated presentation provided valuable insights into Saudi Arabia’s diverse cultural heritage, emphasizing the unique contributions of its regions to the nation’s historical tapestry.
To showcase the vast cultural legacy, the Saudi Ministry of Culture along with some of its 11 sector specific commissions and other participated in the forthcoming exhibition. Notably, the Heritage Commission, dedicated to preserving Saudi heritage and advancing the sector; the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, which provides education and training programs to enrich traditional Saudi arts; and the Saudi Handicrafts Company, which aims to become a leading local and global brand for authentic, high-quality Saudi handicrafts, carried a notable mandate to empower artisans and sustain its growth as a commercial entity that showcases Saudi Heritage through high-end artisanal products.
The Saudi Pavilion offered visitors unique and immersive experiences and enabled them to interact directly with skilled Saudi artisans, gain valuable insights into the intricate materials and tools employed, and foster a deeper appreciation for the intrinsic value of each handicraft.
Moreover, the pavilion provided a sensory journey as visitors indulged in the flavourful tastes of traditional Saudi dishes and culinary delights meticulously prepared by chefs selected by The Culinary Arts Commission. Through this participation, the Commission showcased Saudi cuisine both nationally and globally, and added a delightful gastronomic dimension to the cultural showcase.
In addition to the visual and culinary treats, attendees also basked in the artistic prowess showcased by traditional Saudi performers associated with the Theater and Performing Arts Commission. As a patron for all genres of performing arts, the commission brought forth characteristic musical and dance performances that enrich the cultural display.
In essence, the Ministry of Culture’s presence at Artigiano in Fiera became a multifaceted gateway for visitors to not only experience the vastness of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage but also to engage, appreciate, and immerse themselves in some of the vibrant traditions, crafts, culinary artistry, and performing arts that define the nation’s cultural identity.
Artigiano in Fiera offered a valuable opportunity for the Saudi Ministry of Culture to foster cultural exchange and forge meaningful connections by showcasing the traditions and culture of the Kingdom on an international stage. It extended a warm invitation to everyone to participate in this enriching cultural journey.
