22, Nov 2023
Kamasutra is the most exciting subject: Seema Anand, a Master Storyteller, author, mythologist and Sexual Health Educator
Hyderabad, November 22, 2023……The Kama Sutra, an ancient Indian text on sexuality, eroticism is the most exciting subject. I was introduced to it 23 years ago and I am still studying it said Seem Anand, a master storyteller, mythologist, and sexual health educator.
She was addressing a hall full of women, the members of the FICCI Ladies Association (FLO) on Tuesday evening at the Park at Somajiguda.
She was in the city at the invitation of FLO for a session on The Art of Story Telling–Bridging Intimacy and Empowerment. After a brief initial talk, she was in conversation with Ritu Shah, the Chairperson of FLO
Giving her opening notes, Ritu Shah said, “Seema Anand breathes life into her stories. She is a master storyteller based out of London. Today she is with us to have a conversation on one of the rarest subjects of discussion in an open session like this”.
Though we have the oldest scriptures like the Kamasutra which is said to have been written in the 3rd BC, ‘sex’ is still discussed in hush…hush manner. Kamasutra is the most misunderstood literature. Now we have Seema Anand who has studied and researched it for over two decades to decipher it for us. Seema’s stories entertain, educate, and inspire people, Ritu Shah said
‘My interest is erotic literature of ancient India’, Seema Anand announced as she started speaking.
The stories will define us. My interest arose in Kamasutra some 23 years ago. It is the most exciting subject. I am still enjoying studying it. My objective today is to foster safe and honest conversations and relationships of the subject we love to hate and hate to love, she said
Though India is the land of Kamasutra, many shy away from talking about sex. I will let you know some interesting stories from Kamasutra she announced and said that it is not a sex manual, nor about positions as perceived by the majority. It was written for rich men. It talks about the art of living well, the nature of love, maintaining it, and aspects of the pleasure orientation of human life.
It has 7 chapters. The first chapter deals with general principles, the second on sexual union, the third on acquiring a wife, the fourth is about the duties and privileges of the wife, the fifth is about friends and family, the sixth on courtesans, and the last chapter on practices. Out of these chapters what interests me the most is the second chapter on sexual union. It talks about both men and women. This chapter talks about sexual content, various sexual acts, embracing and kissing, grabbing, etc she explained. Balance of the Universe lies in the pleasure of women, she said.
She asked why sex is considered a dirty word. Is it because every abuse or gali is centred around genitals? She questioned and said it shouldn’t be so. Sex is not a dirty word, she said.
Kamasutra is exciting to me because it talks about how lovers communicated when there was no WhatsApp messaging or text messaging. Women used to convey their love, and romance through paan (an Indian after-dinner treat). This is one of the many such things the book reveals, she informed.
Sex is like even if it is bad, it is good, she concluded her conversation.
The session was organized to dispel many myths. She is based out of London. She has a Ph. D in Narratology, the study of narrative and storytelling. She has been researching and teaching mythology, its relevance to contemporary life, and its impact on the psychology of relationships and sexuality. She is a prominent TEXs speaker.
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- By Rabindra
22, Nov 2023
Lung Cancer Screening: Here is what you need to do!
DR K P RANGANATH, CONSULTANT – RADIATION ONCOLOGIST, HCG CANCER CENTRE, VIJAYAWADA
Vijayawada: Lung cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the lungs. It is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Lung cancer occurs when normal lung cells undergo abnormal changes and begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a mass or tumor. While smoking remains the leading cause, it’s important to note that non-smokers can also develop lung cancer. Fortunately, lung cancer screening has become a powerful tool in identifying this deadly disease at an earlier, more treatable stage.
Screening:
Screening is used to check if a person has any symptoms. This can help identify cancer at an early stage. Once the signs and symptoms of lung cancer manifest, it would have reached advanced stages making it difficult to treat. Lung cancer screening helps reduce the risk of succumbing to the disease. Lung cancer screening is not advised for everyone. The primary candidates for screening are individuals with a high risk of developing lung cancer due to certain key factors such as age and family history or any other potential health risk factors.
Age and Smoking history: The primary age group for lung cancer screening is individuals in the age group 50-80 with a significant smoking history. This means any individual who has smoked one packet of cigarette for the last twenty years or has quit in the last fifteen years fall under this high-risk category.
Other Risk Factors: Apart from smoking, other potential risk factors that contribute to the development of Lung cancer are family history, exposure to radon gas, and other carcinogens, and certain lung conditions can elevate the risk of escalating lung cancer.
Types of Screening Method:
The most common screening method for lung cancer is Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) scans. LDCT scans use low levels of radiation to create detailed images of the lungs, allowing healthcare practitioners to detect small abnormalities that might indicate cancer. These scans are fast, painless, and are highly effective at detecting early-stage lung cancer.
Chest X-ray is used to check for any signs of lung cancer in an individual. Sputum Cytology is a procedure in which a sample of sputum is viewed under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
Among these three, LDCT is fast and painless and can also reduce the risk of succumbing to the disease. Chest X-ray and Sputum Cytology are considered beneficial but not equivalent to LDCT.
Screening methods have their own share of potential risks and drawbacks. While getting screened does not help in living long, Chest X-rays and Sputum Cytology involve exposure of the chest to harmful radiation which in turn can lead to an increase in other medical vulnerabilities.
Significance of Early Detection:
Detecting lung cancer in its initial stages proves to be significant for a variety of reasons:
1. Enhanced survival rates: Since lung cancer is asymptomatic in its initial stages and detection becomes difficult, early screening proves to be significant as the disease can be detected paving the way for better survival rates.
2. Less Aggressive Treatment Methods: Advanced stages of lung cancer require aggressive treatment methods such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. When detected at an early age, less invasive methods can be used to treat, resulting in a better quality of life for the patients.
3. Minimized Medical expenses: Treatment of advanced lung cancer is not only physically and emotionally draining but financially burdening as well. Early diagnosis paves the way for less extensive treatment and minimized medical expenses.
4. Better Emotional Well-Being: For individuals with high risk due to smoking or other factors, regular lung cancer screening can provide better emotional well-being. Knowing that one is cancer-free or in the initial stages of cancer can alleviate anxiety and promote overall well-being.
In conclusion, lung cancer screening is a powerful tool for early detection, but it’s not for everyone. If you fall into the high-risk category, schedule regular screenings, and take proactive steps to reduce your risk. Early detection saves lives, and by being informed and proactive, you can make a significant impact on your own health and well-being. Don’t wait – take the first step toward lung cancer prevention and early detection today.
22, Nov 2023
SuperAngels Summit: Bringing the Future of Angel Investment on a Global Stage
22nd, November SuperAngels Summit SuperAngels Summit, the world’s first and largest Investor Conference, will be held at the prestigious Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center in the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. This mega event is powered by Venture Catalysts++ and is scheduled for December 15th and 16th, bringing together stalwarts of the startup industry and investors from around the globe. Over two days, industry leaders will engage in networking and share their experiences at the international exhibition centre.
Mr. Ravi K. Ranjan, the Founder and CEO of SuperAngels Summit, addressed the media at the Press Club of India in New Delhi, sharing the aim, mission, and vision of the SuperAngels Summit. He revealed that renowned investors, speakers, government officials, and policymakers from across the world, along with aspiring individuals in the startup realm, will actively participate in this summit.
While talking about the event, Mr. Ravi K. Ranjan said, “India is on the cusp of a remarkable transformation in the startup landscape. We’ve had our share of challenges in the past, and now, with the advantage of technology at our fingertips, the opportunities for startups are boundless. SuperAngels Summit is not just an event; it’s a catalyst for connection, collaboration, and growth.”
Highlighting the significance of technology, Mr. Ravi K. Ranjan further added, “Today’s entrepreneurs have the advantage of leveraging technology to its fullest potential. It’s a boon that can accelerate their journey and contribute to the overall growth of the startup ecosystem in India. He also added, “Health, Agriculture, Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Social Media and Tourism verticals have a lot of scope in the start-up ecosystem.”
Celebrating the spirit of angel investment, The SuperAngels Summit is being organized in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, the Private Office of Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum, Emirates Angels (a registered non-profit organization supporting angel investment in the UAE) and Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
SuperAngels Summit is designed as a platform for startups and angel investors to converge, fostering meaningful connections and opening avenues for collective success. Mr. Ranjan expressed his belief that the summit will serve as a bridge between innovative startups and investors looking to support and nurture the next wave of entrepreneurship.
21, Nov 2023
62-Year-Old Man Undergoes Successful Treatment for Stage IV Tongue Cancer at American Oncology Institute (AOI) in Gurgaon
Gurgaon, 21 November, 2023
In a rare case, a 62-year-old man was successfully treated for stage IV tongue cancer, at American Oncology Institute (AOI), Gurgaon. The patient first sought medical attention in March 2023, when he was received by Dr Sheh Rawat, a distinguished oncologist at AOI. Initially, the patient had complained of persistent throat and neck pain, which had been troubling him for the past three months, prompting a comprehensive clinical evaluation and thorough investigations.
Upon examination, the patient was diagnosed with advanced Stage IV Tongue Cancer. This diagnosis understandably raised concerns and questions for both the patient and his family, including the type of treatment, treatment duration, potential side effects, and, most importantly, the expected outcomes. Dr Sheh Rawat and the compassionate healthcare team at AOI addressed these concerns by outlining a detailed treatment plan.
Speaking on the same, Dr Sheh Rawat, Radiation Oncologist, AOI Gurgaon said, “The prevalence of Head and Neck cancers in our country emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention. The successful treatment of Tongue Cancer through Radiotherapy underscores the significance of this therapeutic modality in combating this challenging disease. The patient’s remarkable recovery from advanced Stage IV Tongue Cancer exemplifies the potential for healing and the importance of comprehensive care in the fight against cancer.”
The chosen course of action was Radiotherapy, which has proven to be highly effective in treating Tongue Cancer. Under the expert guidance of DrSheh Rawat, Radiotherapy was initiated, and the patient displayed incredible resilience and tolerance throughout the entire treatment process. Later, the patient successfully completed his Radiotherapy treatment within a month. The latest check-up revealed that the patient is now completely cancer-free. This recovery brings relief to the entire family, who now stand as a living testimony to the power of modern oncology and the dedication of healthcare professionals.
Dr Amit Dhawan, Regional COO, AOI, Gurgaon explained, “We believe that early detection is the linchpin of success in the battle against tongue cancer. At AOI, we’ve made it our mission to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology, enabling us to diagnose and treat complex cancer cases with precision and care. Our commitment to superior technology empowers us to provide less invasive procedures, and better outcomes for our patients. We understand that every moment counts in the fight against cancer, and our advanced resources ensure that we can act swiftly and effectively. Together, we are redefining the standards of cancer care, one early detection, one successful treatment, and one hopeful outcome at a time.”
American Oncology Institute (AOI) at Aarvy Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital in Gurugram is one of the best cancer hospitals in Haryana, offering a wide range of cancer treatment services in the region. As a proud member of the elite global network of the International Tumor Board, AOI in Gurugram collaborates closely with leading medical professionals worldwide, ensuring that our patients receive the most advanced and informed treatment options available at the best hospital in Haryana.AOI Gurugram specializes in a range of dedicated services, making it the best hospital in Haryana. Committed to excellence, AOI combines clinical expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and compassionate care to deliver the highest standard of cancer treatment in the region.
21, Nov 2023
Poultry Industry Continues To Be In Service To The Nation
Hyderabad, November 21, 2023: Despite challenges across all fronts, India’s broiler production for 2019 is projected to increase by 7 percent to nearly 6 million tons, processed chicken meat demand is projected to grow between 10-21 percent and layer production is forecast at 125 billion eggs!
This success story –the envy of almost all developed nations – would not have been possible without the steadfast endeavours of Indian poultry farmers who have collectively raised poultry to become a phenomenal 120,000 crore industry and one of the prime sectors focusing on the food and nutritional security of the nation.
As the world’s 2nd largest egg producer, India today is the Third largest chicken producer after China and USA. “There is no gainsaying the fact poultry industry is playing a flagship role of being India’s champion to eradicate malnourishment and protein deficiency in the country,” said Uday Singh Bayas, President, Indian Poultry Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (IPEMA), organizers of this mega event in Hyderabad which is now in its 15th year.
Mr Uday Singh Bayas, President, – IPEMA was speaking at a media conference to announce the beginning of the 15th Knowledge Day Technical Seminar (November 21st) at HICC and the 15th Poultry India Expo (November 22-24) at HITEC City. He was joined by several members of the Executive Advisory Committee, all Industry stalwarts from across the country.
Poultry India Expo – South Asia’s biggest – has attracted a record 380 companies from India and 45 companies from abroad and is expected to draw over 30,000 business visitors across 32,500sqm and 6 exhibition halls at the HITEC venue which is the pride of Hyderabad. The 3-day exhibition starts on November 22. On November 21, the much acclaimed Knowledge Day will shed light on various factors that beset the poultry industry. More than 1500 delegates from India, Africa, Europe, the USA, and SAARC nations will listen to the world’s finest minds speak on the latest scientific innovations in breeding, hygiene, nutrition, animal health, poultry equipment, and marketing.
21, Nov 2023
Top 5 Companies in India’s Semiconductor and Wireless Communication Sectors
Over the past half-decade, India’s semiconductor and wireless communication landscape has undergone aggressive expansion, with startups and established industry giants alike making significant strides. The opening of new development centers by global leaders and the disruption of incumbents by new entrants through frugal innovation have become common occurrences in India’s technology landscape post-COVID.
Fueled by security and reliability concerns, the global geopolitical shift has highlighted the embedded electronics industry’s need for a secondary supply chain. India is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and emerge as a dominant player in the global embedded electronics value chain over the next decade.
The presence of multinational semiconductor companies, a strong focus on research and development, robust manufacturing capabilities, and the rapid evolution of wireless technologies all contribute to India’s growing prominence in these critical sectors. Collaboration between industry players, research institutions, and government support has further advanced India’s position in the semiconductor and wireless communication domains.
Within this comprehensive endeavor, the semiconductor sector occupies a central position, contributing not only to economic growth but also to the advancement of cutting-edge technology and fostering self-reliance. India’s burgeoning influence in the semiconductor landscape represents a testament to its enduring dedication to innovation, technology-driven growth, and the aspirations of becoming a global powerhouse in the semiconductor and electronics industry. This multifaceted progress, built on collaboration, investment, and research and development, strengthens India’s position on the global semiconductor map.
Additionally, the global wireless connectivity market, valued at USD 71.60 billion in 2022, is projected to reach approximately USD 219.86 billion by 2030, with an expected CAGR of around 15.06% from 2023 to 2030. Valued at $34.43 billion in 2023, India’s semiconductor market is poised for robust growth, with a CAGR of 24.32%. This growth is driven by increasing consumer demand for electronic products in daily life and government initiatives aimed at promoting electronic manufacturing.
Here are five companies instrumental in transforming India’s wireless communication landscape, highlighting the country’s rising prominence in the semiconductor industry:
● Tata Elxsi: Tata Elxsi offers semiconductor design and testing services. It specializes in providing hardware and software solutions for the design and verification of semiconductor products. These services are crucial in the development of integrated circuits, system-on-chip (SoC) designs, and other semiconductor components. It plays a role in fostering the growth and innovation of the semiconductor and wireless communication sectors within the country
● HCL Technologies: HCL Technologies provides IT services to semiconductor and wireless communication companies. These services include application development, IT infrastructure management, and digital transformation. This aids these companies in staying competitive and improving their operations. It has a global presence and works with clients worldwide, including semiconductor and wireless communication companies. This contributes to India’s standing in these industries by showcasing the capabilities of Indian IT and engineering firms.
● Cavli Wireless: Cavli Wireless is revolutionizing IoT with its advanced eSIM-integrated modules and the Cavli Hubble platform, which offer seamless management of global LTE, GNSS, LPWAN, and 5G network connectivity. Embracing the ‘Made in India, For the World’ ethos, Cavli champions Indian manufacturing and serves an international clientele, reinforcing India’s stature in the global semiconductor market. Cavli enhances user experiences by empowering manufacturers to overcome device connectivity complexities through strategic partnerships with global cellular networks.
● Moschip: Moschip specializes in semiconductor design services. They provide solutions for ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) design, FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) design, and other semiconductor components. Their expertise in semiconductor design contributes to India’s capabilities in chip design and development. Moschip’s capabilities in semiconductor design and wireless communication solutions, as well as its commitment to research and innovation, make it a significant player in these industries in India.
● Sankhya Labs: It is a prominent Indian company that has made significant contributions to both the semiconductor and wireless communication landscapes in India. Sankhya Labs’ activities align with the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative, which encourages domestic innovation and manufacturing. Their work in semiconductor technology and wireless communication contributes to these goals. Its innovative solutions, especially in the area of software-defined radio and wireless communication, have positioned them as a key player in India’s semiconductor and wireless communication landscape.
India has a vibrant startup ecosystem focusing on wireless communication technologies. These startups are working on solutions related to wireless communication, including wireless networking, IoT, and mobile applications. They are driving innovation and contributing to India’s prominence in wireless technology.
21, Nov 2023
When sticky becomes unsticky – the invention of reversible glue
November 21, 2023: The reversible glue, developed by experts from Newcastle University’s School of Engineering, is a water-based emulsion – a paint – that bonds together and can be separated by water that is either acidic or alkaline. Its reversible nature means it can be used for a multitude of purposes such as on the labels of bottles so that they are efficiently detached, making them easier to recycle. Labels will no longer need to be sent to landfill.
The glue uses polymers that contain electrical charge to both keep the emulsion stable and to stick to different surfaces. When a surface coated with a positively charged emulsion is joined to a surface coated with a negatively charged one, the two components stick together. However, if the bond is immersed in water that is either slightly acidic (pH2, about the same as lemon juice) or alkaline, it fails. This opens up possibilities for recycling, because it allows the separation on demand of components that have reached the end of their useful life.
The first author of the paper, Dr. Adriana Sierra-Romero, Research Associate at the School of Engineering, said: “We have been working with a waste management company, Biffa, and we have shown that with our glue, a propylene label stuck to a PET bottle can be removed by the wash water in their recycling plant. Although the bottles can be recycled, these labels are usually sent to landfill, so we know our technology can really make a difference. There will be many other industries where our glue can be used, and we look forward to working with other companies.”
Helping improve industrial processes
The glue is based on current industrial processes – those for making a paint – and is developed from cheap materials so it can be scaled up easily. Because it is water-based it does not have the volatile organic solvents used in many commercial glues, but unlike other water-based adhesives, exposure to humid environments does not cause bond failure. The team has shown that its shelf life at room temperature is at least a year, so it is also inherently stable.
The glue is targeted at plastic surfaces, but it can bond to other surfaces too. Plastics are where most applications are expective, and it is particularly effective at surfaces used in the packaging industry like polypropylene and polyethylene, which are inaccessible to many glues. Target industries include bottle recycling, but the work could be applied to other areas of packaging as well as the recycling of automotive parts or in electronics.
Published in the leading chemistry journal, Angewandte Chemie International Edition, the work was funded for by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). The team has recently been informed that the EPSRC will fund the research for another three years, bringing total funding for the team to £1M.
The lead investigator on the project, Professor Mark Geoghegan, Professor of Engineering Materials, added: “I first thought that charged polymers could be used for reversible adhesion back in 1999. Back then, this was blue sky research, and it is very exciting to see that we now have a glue based on these principles.”
Dr Katarina Novakovic, Reader in Polymer Engineering and co-investigator on the project said: “Companies are making more and more ambitious net zero targets. Our glue will help them achieve these.
“Newcastle University has a great record in sustainability. It is embedded in our curricula, for example, I am involved in teaching our undergraduate students about bottle recycling and they really enjoy this real-life example. It is great that we have a glue that can improve industrial processes in these areas.”
Newcastle University is ranked top 5 in the UK for sustainable development in the latest Times Higher Education Impact rankings.
21, Nov 2023
India’s Regional PR Awards 40 Under 40 Announces Distinguished Jury Panel for the 3rd Edition
India’s Regional PR Awards 2023 40 Under 40 is excited to reveal its esteemed jury panel for the upcoming 3rd edition. This exceptional panel comprises highly experienced PR professionals, seasoned journalists, and corporate communications specialists. Their collective expertise promises to make the 3rd Edition of India’s Regional PR Awards an even more prestigious and insightful event. The deadline for submitting nominations has been extended until November 26th, 2023.
The jury panel for this edition includes professionals who have spent years honing their skills in the fields of public relations, journalism, and corporate communications. Their vast knowledge and keen insights will play a crucial role in evaluating and acknowledging outstanding contributions to the public relations industry. These accomplished individuals will be pivotal in recognizing and honoring exceptional achievements in the public relations industry.
According to Pawan Tripathi, Organizer of IRPRA, “The involvement of these esteemed PR professionals on our jury panel is a testament to the credibility and prestige of India’s Regional PR Awards 2023. We are confident that their discerning insights will elevate the recognition of outstanding accomplishments in the industry.”
The distinguished jury panel for the third edition of IRPRA 40 Under 40 consists of highly experienced senior professionals in the fields of public relations, journalism, and corporate communications. Distinguished personalities such as Roma Balwani, CEO, Chief Custodian, IDCA, and mentor at IRPRA; Kavita Lakhani, Communications Leader, Independent Director, Finlabs, Former President WICC; Archana Muthappa, Communication Specialist, Mental Health Counselor; Charu Raizada, Strategic Communications Director and Leadership Advisor; Aakriti Bhargava, Co-founder, Wizikey; Ameer Ismail, President Lintas Live, MullenLowe Lintas Group; Glen Charles D’Souza, Managing Director – Crisis Communications, Media and Network Group at MSL India; CJ Singh, Communication Strategist, Brand Consultant, Podcaster, Author, Executive Coach, and founder CEO of CorePR; Samir Kapur, Director at Adfactors PR; Bhaskar Majumdar, Head – Marketing Communication, CSR and Digital, Egis – India and South Asia; and Ujjawal Punmiya, Head Corporate Communication, PR, and Content. Alpha Alternatives will be the esteemed judges for this year’s IRPRA Awards.
The IRPRA 40 Under 40 2023 event is scheduled for December 9th, 2023, with the deadline for submitting nominations and case studies set for November 26th, 2023. Registrations and fulfillment of nominations are free of cost. Criteria for applicants should be 40 years or below as of the event date and should be practicing PR and Corporate communication within the geographical territory of India.
21, Nov 2023
IT Recruitment Remains Muted; Functional Skills Such as Development and ERP Hold the Highest Share of Hiring Intent: Quess Corp
Mumbai, 21st November 2023: Quess Corp, India’s leading business solutions provider, today launched the ‘Skills Report’, offering insights into the technology skills enabling the future of work in India. The report reveals that the demand for talent with functional skills such as Development, ERP, Automotive Design, Testing, and Administration, among others, has surged in Q2FY24. However, hiring remains muted as organizations have adopted a wait-and-watch approach in light of geopolitical tensions, putting a hold on discretionary spending.
Commenting on the tech hiring landscape, Vijay Sivaram, CEO of Quess IT Staffing, said, “For the first time in recent history, large IT services companies have shown a decline in headcount and reduced guidance values, signalling a collective exercise of caution in navigating the future. We believe this uncertainty will continue for a quarter or two before the next uptick begins. However, adopting models such as master service providers (MSPs) and recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), as well as the need for pre-assessed hiring, remains the priority. On the bright side, the GCC ecosystem is growing exponentially, and with the advent of Gen AI, we expect the integration of additional tech in the Indian IT space, which holds considerable long-term potential. Opportunities abound for those who invest in upskilling, with a notable shift in the way businesses operate, as over 85% of Indian businesses plan to invest in AI within the next two years.”
Leading Skill Suites in Demand
According to Quess, 65% of the aggregate demand emerged from the top 5 skill suites, namely Development, ERP, Automotive Design, Testing, and Administration. In addition to these functional skill suites, incremental demand for skills related to Gen AI, Data Science, DevOps, Cloud, Automotive Engineering, Cyber Security, Networking Specialists, and more were also noted.
| Skill Suite | Demand share |
| Development | 36% |
| ERP | 11% |
| Automotive Design | 6% |
| Testing | 6% |
| Administration | 6% |
Development
In Q2FY24, there was a strong demand for developers proficient in over 100 technical proficiencies. Mature skills like Java and .NET continued to dominate, with high demand in the banking, consulting, technology, telecom, and automotive sectors. Skills that experienced decelerated growth reflect the hiring slowdown in IT Services.
ERP
There was also sustained demand for six major ERP solutions, primarily driven by the IT, Consulting, and Automotive sectors. SAP had the dominant market share, accounting for over 30 SAP modules. A 17% increase in demand for Oracle was noted compared to Q1FY24. SAP modules like ABAP, FIORI, and CR are rising, whereas BW and MM have declined. This change is linked to specific module development priorities, with demand shifting from one quarter to the next. Different modules may take the spotlight in the upcoming quarter.
Automotive Design
The demand for engineering projects in Q2 was centred around mechanical engineering, specifically CAD & CAE skills, in contrast to electronics engineering in the previous quarter (Q1) with competencies such as AUTOSAR and MATLAB, indicating a broadening scope within this spectrum. This has led to an increased need for skills relevant to various aspects of automotive design, including body design, seating design, soft trim, Digital Signal Processing, and applications involving C++ and Qt.
Testing
In Q2FY24, Selenium remained the top choice among testing frameworks despite a 59% decrease from the previous quarter, commanding a 23% demand. Jira (11%), Jasmine (10%), Java (6%), and others also exhibited notable demand. This demand trend was primarily observed within the consulting, BFSI, and technology sectors.
Administration
The demand for Administration and IT infrastructure support skills remains steady, covering L1 and L2 support across a diverse spectrum of over 30 components. Notable skills this quarter include Linux, ITSM/CMDB, Spotfire, IBM AIX, SQL, and more. This demand is pervasive across various industries.
Fresher hiring outlook
Recent industry discourse has centered on the temporary suspension of fresher hiring in the past few quarters. The strategic decision to delay or avoid hiring freshers is a response to diminished business demand. Companies are prudently managing discretionary costs, prioritizing short-term cost optimization while incorporating fresher hiring into their long-term project and expansion plans.
According to Quess, there is a noticeable uptick in fresher demand within sectors such as Engineering, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Retail. Skills pertaining to Data Engineering, Development (Java, Angular), ERPs, Power BI, Network Engineering, Cybersecurity, and UI/UX are particularly sought after among early career professionals. Furthermore, we see a positive trend where many prominent Technology, Consulting, and FMCG companies are increasingly introducing specialized early career programs aimed at empowering recent graduates and enhancing their professional, business, and technical skills
City-wise recruitment trends for tech professionals
India’s IT sector is experiencing a notable transformation as it expands beyond its initial technology hub, Bengaluru. Emerging tech hubs like Pune, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Chennai, and NCR are gaining prominence. This shift is driven by their flourishing tech industries and the presence of both domestic and international companies, propelling them to become established, mature technology hubs in India.
City-wise trends for technology hiring demand in India is relatively concentrated, with the top 5 cities accounting for over 79% of all job postings. However, the rapid development of infrastructure, skill diversity, remote work, and governmental initiatives such as smart cities have enabled an upswing in hiring across Tier 2 and 3 cities, particularly cities like Ahmedabad, Mysuru, Jaipur, Indore, Coimbatore, Kochi, and others.
Methodology
This report is based on Quess IT Staffing’s operations data, which maps demand and supply in our talent ecosystem. The findings speak to the evolving aggregate tech hiring demand and related insights to give leaders a clear understanding of the talent market. This report focuses on the quantum of demand in Q2FY2024.
21, Nov 2023
Bollywood Hungama is now available on YuppTV’s FAST network platform for global audience
National, 21st November 2023: Bollywood Hungama, India’s premiere Bollywood news and entertainment website has partnered with YuppTV, one of the world’s largest internet-based TV and on-demand service providers for South Asian content. Together they have announced the launch of Bollywood Hungama globally through YuppTV’s FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) network platform. This launch will feature all news and gossip surrounding the world of Bollywood and the Indian entertainment business for the South Asian audience.
This collaboration offers users a diverse range of content, including the latest songs, popular movies, engaging original shows, music videos, and sought-after podcasts—all conveniently available on a unified platform. Through YuppTV’s FAST network, users gain exclusive access to Bollywood Hungama’s content. With an impressive user base of 70 million, Bollywood Hungama stands as the frontrunner in the Indian entertainment landscape, providing comprehensive coverage of Bollywood news and information. This partnership ensures users remain informed about the latest developments while enjoying a seamless entertainment experience. The fusion of YuppTV’s technology and Bollywood Hungama’s content is poised to enhance the digital entertainment landscape.
Siddhartha Roy, CEO, Hungama Digital Media, remarked on the partnership, “The collaboration between Bollywood Hungama and YuppTV is poised to introduce a compelling and vibrant facet of entertainment to the South Asian audience. In the ever-evolving and dynamic media landscape of today, where smart TVs play an indispensable role in the viewing experience, we acknowledge the need for innovation within the FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) category. We are looking forward to expand our footprints in this domain, with a commitment to delivering exceptional content tailored to the unique preferences of our valued audience.”
Commenting on the launch, Uday Reddy, Founder & CEO, YuppTV said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of Bollywood Hungama on our FAST network platform, a segment that has grown exponentially. The Bollywood entertainment website boasts a strong user base of 70 million, and has a highly engaging community of more than 16 million+ on social media, presenting a unique opportunity for us to reach out to more viewers globally. We are excited to provide our current user-base with original content from Bollywood Hungama, helping them keep up with the latest news from Bollywood, Hollywood, OTT, and television.”
