1, Dec 2023
Max Life’s e-commerce channel achieves 55% YoY + growth in H1 FY24
New Delhi, December 1, 2023: Max Life Insurance Co. Ltd. (“Max Life”/ “Company”) has announced that the e-commerce channel has achieved a 55% YoY growth in total online sales and over 100% YoY growth in APE for H1 FY24. Over 30% of policies were sourced through the online channel in the first half of the fiscal year. Backed by a strong surge in direct-to-customer online sales, Max Life has strengthened its position as one of the industry leaders in overall online sales and in the online protection market.
In the first half of FY24, Max Life achieved a substantial market share within the online domain, including continued leadership in the online protection segment. The strong presence is driven by the company’s strategic focus on product innovation customized for online customers, investments in digital capabilities, and user experience. Some of its highest-selling offerings include the NIFTY Smallcap Quality Index Fund, the Smart Fixed-Return Digital Plan (guaranteed savings), the Smart Secure Plus Plan, and the Online Savings Plan (ULIP).
V. Viswanand, Deputy Managing Director, Max Life said, “Max Life’s remarkable e-commerce growth in H1 FY24 reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of digitally-savvy customers. Our aim is to establish our footprint across multiple digital touchpoints and provide an omni-channel experience to our customers. Our digital strategy is rooted in enhancing accessibility and availability of insurance products, anchored to the vision of ‘Insurance for All’.
Max Life attributes its e-commerce growth to digital initiatives aimed at ensuring frictionless onboarding and superior customer service. Offering personalized experiences by creating a mobile-first purchase and unique WhatsApp-led chase journey, Max Life has enabled sharper prospecting and built a robust digital marketing muscle.
- 0
- By Rabindra
1, Dec 2023
Normet launches Charmec Revo(R) – the revolution in underground explosives charging
Normet proudly introduces the latest innovation in improving operator safety underground; Charmec Revo. With a half of a century of expertise in explosives charging and the latest technologies in the market, we deliver a revolution to underground explosives charging.
Explosives charging is one of the most hazardous work processes in modern underground mining. Easily available ore deposits are depleting – forcing mining companies to go deeper underground where risks of rockfalls and rock burst accidents are increasing. The only tangible way to improve operator safety is to remove the operator from the high exposure danger zone, meaning the unsupported area of the tunnel – like Charmec Revo does. The remote-controlled robotic arm places the initiating system into the borehole and, in conjunction with the emulsion kit, dispenses emulsion, allowing the operator to remain in a supported tunnel area away from the danger zone.
The system is developed for tunnels from 4 x 4 meters up to 6 x 6 meters, which covers most of the underground mining tunnels. The charging manipulator consists of an in–house developed servo-robotic arm with extremely agile movements – built robustly to fulfill the need of underground mining conditions.
Drilled borehole maps from the drill rigs can be uploaded to the system to locate the boreholes in the face wall, when machine vision system, fully developed by Normet, guides charging hose automatically to the drilled boreholes. If the map is not available, the machine vision helps the operator to locate the boreholes. Once the borehole is found, the charging hose delivery system will take care of the priming unit and explosive delivery to the borehole.
The system uses collision free path planning to define the safest route for the arm during the operation. If an obstacle or operator appears to the arm’s operating area, the arm slows down and stops its movement before contact.
The Charmec Revo system can be adapted to use any commercially available wired, semi-wireless or wireless initiating systems. The priming unit can be handled manually or by magazines provided by explosives suppliers. The initiating system magazine is placed on the platform next to the charging arm, enabling priming unit’s unique pick and deliver –method to be deployed.
The Charmec Revo platform is the latest generation front cabin carrier available with either the latest diesel engine emission rating or SmartDrive battery-electric architecture with zero local emissions. The load capacity of Charmec Revo is 6000 kg, meaning up to 4000 kg matrix capacity can be mounted safely onto the rear platform away from the hot surfaces. A large bulk tank capacity reduces the need for back and forth driving between charging sites and explosive warehouse, which increases productivity significantly and helps to keep the charging machine in good condition. As with initiating systems, Charmec Revo can be used with all commercial bulk emulsion systems.
“We have extensively tested the Charmec Revo technology in underground mining and it has demonstrated its ability to improve operational safety while retaining similar productivity. Ease of use and low learning curve ensure effortless implementation of this technology” says Anssi, Product Line Director of Explosives Charging.
At Normet, we believe that the Charmec Revo, with its groundbreaking servo-robotic remote arm and ability to use any commercially available initiating and bulk systems, leads the way to safer and more efficient explosives charging operations.
1, Dec 2023
SBI wins prestigious “Marketing Maestro” award at the HOMETHON Property Expo
Mumbai, December 1, 2023: The State Bank of India, the country’s largest lender, bags “HOMETHON Marketing Maestro at the HOMETHON Property Expo, a three-day extravaganza that happened in Mumbai.
Mr. Atul Save, Minister of Housing, Maharashtra inaugurated the event in the presence of Mr. Sandeep Runwal President NAREDCO, and Mr. Niranjan Hiranandani. The SBI stall at the event received a grand opening by Mr. Atul Save, celebrity couple – Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, Mrs. Usha Gautam, CGM, SBI, Mr. G S Rana, CGM, SBI, and other officials of the bank. The stall was also graced by Mr. Devendra Fadnavis, Dy. Chief Minister, Maharashtra.
Under the ‘SBI Festive Delight’ campaign, the bank at the expo facilitated instant home loan approvals at concessional rates, further solidifying its commitment to providing financial solutions tailored to the needs of its customers. The bank remains dedicated to playing a pivotal role in fulfilling the dreams of aspiring homeowners across the nation.
1, Dec 2023
CRC Group Organises Inter-School Painting Competition Under Spirit Of Noida Campaign
Noida: CRC Group, NCR’s leading real estate entity, hosted the 13th Annual Inter School Setu Shikshajyoti Painting Competition at Mayoor School, Sector 126, Noida. The event, held under the banner of the ‘Spirit of Noida Campaign’, brought together 381 participants from 51 schools, including NGOs, special needs schools, and public institutions. The event was graced by the chief guests, Mr. Salil Kumar (Director, CRC Group), Mr. Himanshu Goyal (CFO, CRC Group), Mr. Ravi Kaul (Chief Trustee, Setu Foundation) and the guest of honour Ms. Alka Awasthi (Principal, Mayoor School Noida).
Kenisha Agarwal from Sarvottam School emerged victorious in the 2-5 class category, while Priyanshi from Anubha Global School bagged the first prize in the 6-10 class category from the individual schools. Simultaneously, Prateek Prasad from Ankur Anawa Trust School bagged the first prize in the 2-5 class category, and Nandini Verma from Om Foundation emerged victorious in the 6-10 class category.
The competition served as a unique platform where children from diverse backgrounds, including those with special needs and underprivileged youngsters, joined hands with their peers to express their imagination and creativity through art. The competition was pivotal in encouraging children to think outside the box, explore their creative potential, and translate their imagination onto canvas. The event not only showcased the artistic talents of the participants but also provided the audience with a glimpse into the world as seen through the eyes of these young artists. This initiative fostered a sense of unity and understanding among the younger generation.
Speaking about the event, Mr. Salil Kumar, Director, of CRC Group, stated, “We are proud to be a part of an initiative that celebrates diversity and creativity among our youth. The Setu Shikshajyoti Painting Competition was a part of our commitment to creating an inclusive platform for children to express themselves, irrespective of their background. Through such events, we aim to contribute to the holistic development of our community.”
1, Dec 2023
On World Computer Literacy Day, writer Mandakini Dwivedi on adapting to technology: Was excited to learn but also a bit scared
In the past, writers crafted their thoughts with pen and paper, a tradition that evolved as technology advanced. Computers, followed by laptops, phones, and tablets, became the new medium for writing. Change is gradual; some adapted swiftly, while others, particularly in the heartland of India, took their time, catching up gradually. As we celebrate World Computer Literacy Day on December 2nd, a global observance dedicated to promoting digital skills, writer Mandakini Dwivedi from Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, shares her journey into the world of computers and its transformative impact.
Mandakini, a talented writer from Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, joined Pocket FM during the Covid-19 pandemic. Formerly a teacher and counselor in a government organization, fate led her to take a chance on life by joining the global audio series platform. While she used to write with pen and paper in her early writing days, joining Pocket FM introduced her to the world of computer writing.
Reflecting on this shift, Mandakini said, “I’m new to writing stories on the computer. I did write in a diary before. It’s a bit different; the computer feels a bit heavy. I was excited to learn but also a bit scared. I wondered, ‘Can I do this? Can I make a living?’ Tasks that took one hour with a pen now take three on the computer. There were moments of doubt, but I believed in myself. It was a chance to try something new without spending money. I left my city and kept writing. It took time, but eventually, my computer became faster than using a pen.”
Acknowledging the challenges in the transition, Mandakini shared, “Suddenly, everything changed with the first computer screen. I didn’t spend much time, and my eyes hurt from staring at the computer all day. There were health problems and changes in my writing style. Change is tough; it starts in the gut. But I made it a habit to ignore problems and focus on writing. That’s where I found my challenge. Over time, what used to take three hours to write now only takes one. This victory is big for me because I write just for a day.”
In a message for those hesitant to adopt technology, Mandakini expressed, “We’re in the age of technology, especially AI. If you don’t adapt and update and stay relevant, changing trends and time will leave you behind. Embrace the paperless trend because social media and technology are everywhere. If you’re not creatively inclined, social media is there at your disposal. But if you want a new identity, you have to become tech-savvy. It’s the computer age, and being tech-savvy is the way to go.”
Mandakini has penned the successful audio series ‘Amrapali’ for Pocket FM, and *when asked about listeners’ response, she mentioned, “Even today, listeners comment for Amrapali, saying she should continue. Even after the show ends, both new and old listeners keep sharing positive feedback and comments. They’re eagerly waiting for the next season of Amrapali Nemzhu. It has given the series a new identity, and I never expected this much love from people after the show ended. Reading those happy comments makes all the worries and fatigue in the day disappear.”
1, Dec 2023
Kyndryl to Accelerate Mainframe Application Modernization for Customers with AWS
India, December 1, 2023 – Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, today announced an expansion of its relationship with Amazon Web Services (AWS) as a Premier Tier Services Partner to help customers simplify and accelerate their mainframe modernization initiatives. The company also unveiled new capabilities designed to seamlessly integrate mainframe applications and data with AWS technologies, and/or move mainframe workloads to AWS.
Kyndryl now supports the AWS Mainframe Modernization service, a unique platform that allows customers to migrate and modernize their on-premises mainframe applications to a cloud-native fully managed runtime environment on AWS. Kyndryl will bring its industry-leading mainframe expertise, skills, and capabilities to help customers manage their complex transformation initiatives more efficiently and effectively.
As part of their expanded relationship with AWS, Kyndryl launched a suite of new, tailored capabilities to automate the provisioning and management of AWS mainframe modernization environments and help customers optimize deployments:
- Kyndryl Cloud Native Services (KCNS) for mainframe modernization will enable businesses to streamline lifecycle management across their platforms and ensure consistent provisioning, backup, compliance, and monitoring for mainframe applications and infrastructure components. In addition, Kyndryl will help automate operations, track AWS runtime performance, and ensure system health. This can drive continuous modernization as well as faster innovation and time to value for customers.
- Application re-platforming/refactoring via integrated DevSecOps provides an application platform
engineering and developer agility on both the mainframe and AWS, enhancing the developer experience and accelerating mainframe modernization. - Application refactoring for migration from the mainframe to AWS is supported by Kyndryl migration experts and helps customers optimize mainframe applications as microservices in a cloud-native environment.
- Near real-time data replication between the mainframe and AWS using Kyndryl Consult to tune and manage third-party products to help increase analytical insights from integrated data sources that customers use to address business challenges.
Additionally, the integration of AWS environments with the AI-powered Kyndryl Bridge open integration platform provides real-time visibility and actionable insights into operational data, helping customers to better plan, leverage, and gain insights from their mainframe applications and data in the cloud to support better business outcomes.
With the new Kyndryl capabilities and AWS Mainframe Modernization service, an end-to-end mainframe transformation factory can be created to integrate and migrate mainframe applications and data to AWS, which can provide seamless hybrid estate management for joint customers.
“AWS and Kyndryl’s creativity and innovation to help implement mainframe modernization have assisted the State of Arizona Department of Economic Security in our modernization journey,” said Mark Darmer, CIO of State of Arizona DES. “They continue to provide the type of innovation that is needed in the industry.”
“I applaud Kyndryl’s continued work with AWS. It represents a significant step forward in enabling organizations to optimize their workloads across cloud and mainframe environments,” said Steven Dickens, VP and Practice Leader at the Futurum Group. “With Kyndryl’s expertise and AWS’ innovative technologies, businesses can achieve greater agility, cost-efficiency and innovation, ultimately driving their digital transformation efforts to new heights.”
“We are pleased to expand our relationship with AWS to support customers with modernizing their mainframe workloads, helping them drive the most value by integrating mainframe applications and data with AWS, or moving them to AWS,” said Petra Goude, Kyndryl Global Practice Leader for Core Enterprise & zCloud. “Our work with AWS enables businesses to increase access to valuable mainframe data and leverage new capabilities that will show the benefits of cloud automation and enhanced insights from their IT environments.”
“AWS Mainframe Modernization service offers customers a comprehensive approach to modernize mainframe applications,” said Bill Platt, General Manager for Migration Services at AWS. “Working with Kyndryl, we’re providing the tools and expertise to help joint customers assess existing mainframe workloads, identify candidates for modernization, and create migration plans to help them identify opportunities to accelerate business value.”
1, Dec 2023
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India inaugurates BigWing in Nagercoil (Tamil Nadu)
- Delights motoring enthusiasts with an exclusive range of premium motorcycles (300cc – 500cc)
- Exclusive one-stop sales and service center for Honda big bikes
Nagercoil, 1 December 2023: Enhancing a new era of differentiated immersive experience to premium motorcycle customers across the country, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) today inaugurated an all-new premium motorcycle sales & service outlet – Honda BigWing in Nagercoil (Tamil Nadu).
Located at Building No. 314C/1 & 314C/2 (Survey No. G-1/132/1), K.P Road, Nagercoil, Kanniyakumari – 629003, Tamil Nadu, the facility aims to elevate the #GoRidin spirit amongst new as well as prospective customers.
Expanding their last-mile presence to cater to aspirational customers, the differentiated BigWing can be now experienced at more than 130 operational touchpoints across India.
Premium Experience
Adorned with the black & white monochromatic theme, BigWing showcases the displayed vehicles in their full glory. The highly trained and knowledgeable professionals at BigWing assist customers in resolving their product or accessories-related queries. Easing the journey from search to purchase, the dedicated website (www.HondaBigWing.in) is available for detailed information. The online booking option on the website ensures a quick, seamless, and transparent booking experience for customers at their fingertips. Capturing real-time customer feedback, Honda BigWing is also actively available across all social media platforms.
Ensuring safety and convenience of customers, Honda BigWing offers Immersive Digital Experience. The virtual platform – https://virtualshowroom.hondabigwing.in allows customers to experience the entire fun motorcycle line-up, riding gears and accessories in granular detail while sitting in the comforts of their home.
Diverse Product Portfolio
Honda’s premium motorcycle retail format is led by the BigWing Topline – for entire premium motorcycle range (300cc – 1800cc) in top metros and BigWing – exclusively for the mid-size motorcycle segment (300cc – 500cc) in other demand centers. Its diverse range of motorcycles comprises of the all-new CB350, H’ness CB350, and CB350RS which can be further customized to suit the ever-changing needs of customers through six unique customization kits. Additionally, the product line-up includes CB300F, CB300R, CB500X, CB650R, CBR650R, XL750 Transalp, CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, Africa Twin and Gold Wing Tour.
Giving joy to customers with the All-New retro classic ‘CB350’
HMSI brings in the festival cheer with the introduction of the All-New CB350. Engineered to offer a timeless classic design with a superior blend of technology and refined performance, the Honda CB350 has been launched at a special price of Rs. 1,99,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Crafted with an amalgamation of artistry and power, this retro motorcycle blends Honda’s iconic styling ethos with a timeless classic design.
HMSI is offering the CB350 in five attractive colours with a choice of metallic and matte shades. They are Precious Red Metallic, Pearl Igneous Black, Matte Crust Metallic, Matte Marshal Green Metallic and Matte Dune Brown. At the heart of CB350 lies a powerful 348.36cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder BSVI OBD2-B compliant PGM-FI engine that churns out 15.5 kW power & 29.4 Nm torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox.
Reach us at:
Honda BigWing
Nagercoil (Tamil Nadu)
Showroom & workshop – Building No. 314C/1 & 314C/2 (Survey No. G-1/132/1), K.P Road, Nagercoil, Kanniyakumari – 629003, Tamil Nadu
1, Dec 2023
Qubik Infra revamps 19 government schools into smart schools under Operation Kayakalp
~Approved by Uttar Pradesh Rajkiya Nirman Nigam, these schools are revamped with the best learning facilities for junior-grade students~
Uttar Pradesh, December 1, 2023: A child’s overall development begins with an elementary education, and smart classrooms provide a nurturing, creative environment for them to reach their full potential. Thus, in order to transform Moradabad’s government schools into smart schools, the Uttar Pradesh government announced Operation Kayakalp. Leading national infrastructure company Qubik Infra, which was in charge of the renovation of 19 of these smart schools, recently declared this large project’s completion. With a primary focus on providing quality education in a stimulating environment, these institutions are a key component of the government’s ambitious initiative to transform the city of Moradabad into a smart city.
Thousands of children in the city of Moradabad will benefit from this project worth 25 crores which was completed in less than two years, heralding the start of a new era of development and literacy in the area. Aside from the physical infrastructure, each classroom for grades nursery to 5 is now outfitted with a cutting-edge smart system.
This technology allows students to visualize theoretical lessons, transforming the traditional learning experience into an engaging and interactive journey. Another distinguishing feature of these smart schools is the use of an energy-efficient LED lighting system, which reflects their commitment to sustainability.
Mr. Nikhil Jain, CEO of Qubik, stated on the occasion, “Smart classes are revolutionary in education, allowing children to broaden their horizons of thinking. True progress occurs when everyone can benefit from it. Thus, this project was of the utmost importance to us, and we went above and beyond to ensure that no gaps exist at any level. Everything, from the raw materials used to the precision with which the infrastructure was built, was ensured to meet the highest quality standards, as it was about the safety, and dreams and aspirations of young children. We are grateful that the government has entrusted us with this huge responsibility and hope that we can collaborate on such meaningful projects in the future too.”
The advantages of these improvements go beyond the physical and technological aspects. Smart systems not only make learning more enjoyable, but they also promote a dynamic educational environment. Students can now actively participate in their learning, laying the groundwork for critical thinking and problem-solving abilities while nurturing their curiosities to the best.
The company received the tender to revamp 19 former government schools and construct one educational institution in January 2022. The newly established smart government schools are designed to foster the holistic development of young minds and will undoubtedly lessen the gaps in education. Now with the project being completed, the schools will be open to welcome pupils.
Previously, Qubik Infra collaborated with the UP government to construct an auditorium in Aligarh Habitat Center and modify Achaltal Temple with a statue of Lord Shiva and fountains. Some of their projects are still in progress, including Metal Handicraft Service Center in Moradabad.
1, Dec 2023
Omega Seiki Mobility Inaugurates First in Segment Green-Energy Powered COCO Service Centre in NCR
New Delhi, 1st December, 2023 – Omega Seiki Mobility has raised the bar with the inauguration of its first in segment avant-garde Company-Owned-Company-Operated (COCO) Service Centre for their Electric Vehicles. Nestled strategically at Sector 15 A, Faridabad, Haryana- 121007. Boasting an expansive 30,000 sq ft. footprint and equipped with 7 state-of-the-art service bays staffed by a team of over 20 highly skilled service engineers, the COCO Service Centre is poised to deliver a seamless and unparalleled experience for customers seeking electric vehicle service. With the capacity to service over 3,000 vehicles annually which is about 30% of the overall sales, this facility redefines the service infrastructure paradigm. The COCO Service Centre takes a sustainable approach by being green energy powered. This eco-friendly initiative aligns with the global push towards sustainability.
The initiative of the COCO Service Centre’s 24/7 operational status aims to provide drivers with the utmost convenience, allowing them to schedule vehicle servicing during non-working hours. Recognizing the vehicle’s critical role as a livelihood asset for drivers, the facility goes the extra mile by providing bedding for drivers to rest while their vehicles are serviced. Whether opting for night-time servicing or another preferred time slot, the COCO Service Centre is tailored to accommodate a diverse range of customer preferences.
Omega Seiki Mobility, prior to the launch in Faridabad, plans to inaugurate three additional COCO Service Centres in the coming year. The strategic expansion includes the opening of facilities in Bangalore and Chennai, with a meticulous evaluation process preceding the unveiling of the third location. As the brand continues to pioneer advancements in sustainable mobility, the planned expansion aligns with its overarching goal of facilitating a cleaner, greener, and more efficient future for electric vehicle users nationwide.
Mr. Uday Narang, the Founder and Chairman of Omega Seiki Mobility, emphasized the strategic significance of the COCO Service Centre, stating, “This facility is more than a milestone; it’s a strategic investment in our commitment to delivering unparalleled service. We are architects of change, pioneering a revolution where electric vehicles transcend transportation to become catalysts for a cleaner, greener, and safer world. Service, to us, is not just a transaction; it’s a pledge to uphold the reliability and performance of our vehicles throughout their lifespan. Our focus on green energy, smart engineering, and data-driven solutions positions us at the forefront of shaping the future of mobility.”
This state-of-the-art COCO Service Centre will also be a training ground for the existing 190 plus Dealerships across the Nation to enhance the already developed service infrastructure in accordance with the increasing product line-up every year. Rooted in a profound commitment to sustainable mobility, the brand envisions a future where electric vehicles seamlessly integrate into society, fostering an ecosystem characterized by environmental responsibility, safety, and congestion-free mobility. As one of India’s foremost clean energy incubators, Omega Seiki Mobility remains synonymous with driving India’s success story in sustainability. This COCO Service Centre also stands as a reliable resource for vehicle maintenance, ensuring continuity of service when dealerships are closed.
1, Dec 2023
India’s experimenting consumer is compelling national brands to position as local and regional brands
16th edition of the two-day India Food Forum deliberates the consumer challenges on Day 1
Mumbai, 1 December 2023: India’s ever-willing aspirational consumer is experimenting with new food products that have compelled several national brands to position as local and regional brands, said R S Sodhi, President, Indian Dairy Association, Thursday.
“Local regional brands are emerging. National brands are trying to be positioned now as regional brands,” said Sodhi, the former managing director of the dairy brand – Amul, speaking on the first day of the two-day India Food Forum conclave in its 16th edition.
Earlier in the day, Kanaka Bhagwat, Retail Vertical Lead (FMCG), NielsonIQ – global consulting major also raised this point that local brands were driving growth in fast-growing super- categories and they continue to pace year-by-year, now almost 70 percent of APAC sales.
Across the APAC region, an increase in food prices remains a concern among consumers, but local brands dominate the growth story on a strong base of over 2/3rds of the overall APAC FMCG sales, Bhagwat said.
Rapidly evolution of digitization in India with around 25 crore UPI users in India and around 6 crore QR codes replacing POS machines with a fundamental shift in income and consumption structure in the Indian food retail context, Bhagwat said compared to APAC where the omni-shopper generation was evolving quickly with small-format stores growing via tourism boost and market stabilization.
Sodhi also pointed out that the Indian supply chain is extremely efficient with margins and logistics being minimal compared to global standards that enable more livelihood and nutrition to the farmer and consumer respectively.
Speaking at the plenary session, Damodar Mall, CEO, Grocery Retail, Reliance Retail, and Chair -Retail, India Food Forum said that apart from livelihoods, the retail food business also had elements of influence and power to remain relevant for the new age entrepreneur.
The two-day conclave had received outstanding responses from food companies as well as the presence of last-mile retailers.
