G R Infraprojects Limited’s IPO Opens From July 07-09, 2021; Priced Band Of Rs. 828 – Rs. 837 Per Equity Share

* Price Band of Rs. 828 – Rs. 837 per equity share of face value of Rs. 5 each (“Equity Shares”)

* Bid/Offer Opening Date – Wednesday, July 07, 2021 and Bid/Offer Closing Date – Friday, July 09, 2021

* Minimum Bid Lot is 17 Equity Shares and in multiples of 17 Equity Shares thereafter

* The Floor Price is 165.60 times the face value of the Equity Share and the Cap Price is 167.40 times the Face Value of the Equity Share

G R Infraprojects Limited (“GRIL” or “Company”), an integrated road engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) company with experience in design and construction of various road/highway projects across 15 States in India and having recently diversified into projects in the railway sector, is proposing to open its initial public offering of Equity Shares (the “Offer”) on Wednesday, July 07, 2021 and close on Friday, July 09, 2021. The price band for the Offer has been determined at Rs. 828 – Rs. 837 per Equity Share. The Company and the Investor Selling Shareholders have, in consultation with the book running lead managers to the Offer (the “BRLMs”), considered participation by Anchor Investors, whose participation shall be one Working Day prior to the bid/offer opening Date, i.e. Tuesday, July 06, 2021.

The Offer will be a complete offer for sale of up to 1,15,08,704 Equity Shares (“Offer for Sale”). The Offer includes an employee reservation portion as well.

The Offer for Sale comprises of up to 11,42,400 Equity Shares by Lokesh Builders Private Limited, up to 127,000 Equity Shares by Jasamrit Premises Private Limited, up to 80,000 Equity Shares by Jasamrit Fashions Private Limited, up to 56,000 Equity Shares by Jasamrit Creations Private Limited, up to 44,000 Equity Shares by Jasamrit Construction Private Limited, up to 64,14,029 Equity Shares by India Business Excellence Fund 1 and up to 31,59,149 Equity Shares by India Business Excellence Fund, and up to 486,126 Equity Shares by Pradeep Kumar Agarwal.

The Offer being only an Offer for Sale, Company will not receive any proceeds from the Offer.

The Offer is being made in terms of Rule 19(2)(b) of the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Rules, 1957, as amended, read with Regulation 31 of the SEBI ICDR Regulations. The Offer is being made in accordance with Regulation 6(1) of the SEBI ICDR Regulations, through the Book Building Process wherein not more than 50% of the Net Offer shall be available for allocation to Qualified Institutional Buyers, not less than 15% of the Net Offer shall be available for allocation to Non-Institutional Bidders and not less than 35% of the Net Offer shall be available for allocation to Retail Individual Bidders.

The Company’s principal business of civil construction comprises EPC and BOT projects in the road sector. The Company has, since 2006, executed over 100 road construction projects. As per the red herring prospectus of the Company dated June 26, 2021 (the “RHP”), out of its BOT projects, it has one operational road project which has been constructed and developed on a BOT (annuity) basis and 14 road projects which have been awarded to the company under the HAM, out of which five projects are currently operational, four projects are under construction and construction is yet to commence on five of these projects. The Company also has experience in constructing state and national highways, bridges, culverts, flyovers, airport runways, tunnels and rail over-bridges and has recently diversified into projects in the railway sector.

HDFC Bank Limited, ICICI Securities Limited, Kotak Mahindra Capital Company Limited, Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors Limited, SBI Capital Markets Limited, Equirus Capital Private Limited are the BRLMs to the Offer.

Glamly.com Uplifts The Shopping Trend And Brings In Happiness With Its First-Ever ‘The Glam Sale’

* Up to 70% discount and exciting deals that will surely make you smile

An exclusive online clothing shopping website Glamly.com has announced the first-ever sale starting 2nd July 2021 featuring bespoke brands and their collections, namely, Madame, M Secret, and Camla. The first of its kind sale on Glamly.com provide lucrative offers and discounts on men, women and kids fashion wear giving its customers a unique chance to purchase their favourite products at exciting prices. Ahead of the sale event, the website provided an opportunity to avail an additional 10% off by pre-registering on glamly.com giving consumers a unique chance to pre-book some of their favourite products and build their shopping cart. The sale offers a huge up to 70% discount and an additional offer of Rs. 200 for referrals. The referral amount can be claimed at a minimum purchase value of Rs. 1000 or more after the referred customer makes a purchase.

In addition to the offers and discounts, the brand has organised a contest where participants can upload pictures on their social media handle and stand a chance to win a surprise gift. More information on the exciting chance to grab this deal can be found on https://www.glamly.com/

Commenting on the first of its kind sale, Mr Akhil Jain, Executive Director- Madame said, “We are extremely excited to announce the first-ever sale on our exclusive online platform glamly.com. This is an opportunity for us to reach millions of customers across the country and envision this to accelerate our customer base. With our attractive discounts and offers, we aim to help our customers find everything they need and deliver it safely to them.”

Glamly’s range of clothing during the sale for men and women include stylish and comfortable clothing that will help the consumers keep up with the fashion trend. With a no-compromise policy, Glamly.com is designed to provide quality content that not only showcases the latest trends but also display elements of relaxation and fun which help the customer to connect with the brand online too.

Shalvi Govil, Business Manager, E-Commerce division, Madame, added, “It is now a fast-moving trend to host a sale on e-commerce platforms and I am glad that we decided to do it at the right time. Now more than ever, people are more interested in buying things that are available at a discounted price with exciting offers yet not compromising on the quality. Such discounts and offers always attract customers in making a purchase decision. We are confident that this sale will not only be a success but also add in many new customers to our list.”

Madame’s digital presence elevated the business revenue to 8% from the previous 2%. The tier 2 and 3 cities were major contributors to the increase in online sales. The progressive customer traction on the website led to a facelift of the existing platform and its supporting features.

Request you to kindly publish it on your esteem portal. If you would like to interact with the spokesperson of the company, would be glad to arrange an interaction.

WinZO Raises $65 Million In Series C To “Accelerate Growth In The Indian Interactive Entertainment Industry”

* Financing Led by Griffin Gaming Partners, A Leading Fund Focused on the Global Gaming Market 

WinZO, India’s top gaming and entertainment platform, has raised $65 million in a Series C funding round, led by California-based Griffin Gaming Partners, taking the total tally of capital raised by the Company to $90 million. Griffin is making its first ever investment in India in WinZO, India’s largest multiplayer gaming platform. This financing follows only eight months after the company raised its Series B from returning investors Makers Fund, Courtside Ventures, and Steve Pagliuca, Co-Chairman of Bain Capital. Phil Sanderson, Co-Founder of Griffin Gaming Partners, will join WinZO’s board of directors. 

With a focus on competitive multiplayer gaming experiences, WinZO’s mission is to create a culturally relevant mobile games platform with broad-based adoption. WinZO seeks to position itself at the forefront of Indian gaming culture with an expansive influencer network catering to more than 50 million registered users. The platform is currently offered in 12 languages, unlocking demographics that have historically gone underserved. 

WinZO’s Series C raise represents yet another meaningful milestone reached by the company since its establishment in 2018. The company has grown its revenues tenfold over the last 12 months, and has partnered with over 100 leading game developers to realize the full potential of the Indian mobile gaming market through in-game integration of WinZO’s social gaming framework.   

“We are super excited to partner with the Griffin team,” said Paavan Nanda, co-founder, WinZO.“Their incredible experience and precious insights across the global media & entertainment landscape shall be valuable as we continue to disrupt the Indian gaming ecosystem. With this raise, we plan to grow much faster and become an even more lovable product for our consumers. WinZO is poised and strategically well positioned to be one of the first 'Made in India' products that will rule the world in coming years." 

“We are excited to make Griffin Gaming Partners’ first investment in India backing WinZO, the company behind the largest social gaming app in the country,” commented Nick Tuosto, Co-Founder, of Griffin Gaming Partners and Managing Director and Head of Gaming at LionTree. “The company is led by best-in-class management with an extraordinary product vision. We saw in WinZO’s games incredible retention and monetization metrics we believe set the company up for continued explosive growth and are proud to support the team on the journey.”  

“WinZO’s growth is a testament to the value the company is unlocking in the Indian market.” commented Michael Cheung, General Partner, Makers Fund. “We are excited to continue to support WinZO and their leadership team who combine expertise and unique local insights with a strong vision to grow the Indian games and entertainment sector.” 

About WinZO: 

WinZO is the largest social gaming and entertainment platform in India. Launched in early 2018, the Company partners with third party developers to host games on their Android app, where users can enjoy personalized multiplayer gameplay experiences. The platform is available in 12 languages such as English, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, Bengali, and Bhojpuri, with over 50 million registered users. The WinZO platform facilitates over 2.5 billion micro-transactions per month across a portfolio of 70+ games. WinZO is focused on building an enthusiastic community of gamers and gaming influencers in Tier 2 – 5 cities in India. The Company envisions a future where the WinZO platform can deliver a culturally relevant and enjoyable experience in the Indian gaming ecosystem, monetized through a unique micro-transaction model. 

About Griffin Gaming Partners: 

California based Griffin Gaming Partners was founded in 2019 by Nick Tuosto, Managing Director and Head of Gaming at LionTree; Peter Levin, Co-founder of Nerdist Industries and former President of Interactive Ventures, Games, and Digital Strategy at Lionsgate; and Phil Sanderson, a venture capitalist with over two decades of experience in game investing. The firm invests in game companies and related technologies around the world. 

About Makers Fund:                                                     

Makers Fund is a global interactive entertainment venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments. With over 60 portfolio companies to date, Makers is dedicated to furthering growth and innovation in the interactive entertainment industry. Makers Fund provides strong portfolio support and value add with direct access to top talent, advisors, and CEOs of global platforms. 

About Courtside Ventures: 

Courtside Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund, investing across media and gaming, with a particular strategic focus on sports. Built by a team of notable entrepreneurs and investors, they provide strategic support by leveraging industry relationships and domain expertise to help companies gain a competitive advantage. 

Backed by investor Dan Gilbert, founder and chairman of Rock Ventures, Quicken Loans and majority owner of the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers; WPP, the world's leading advertising firm; and Bruin Sports Capital, Courtside Ventures invests in companies across the US and internationally.  

SIDBI Rolls Out Developmental Measures, Celebrating ‘World MSME Day’ As A ‘Developmental Week’

* Sets up Swavalamban Chair in Government Engineering College, Thrissur 

* Support to CIMSME for setting up Swavalamban Suvidha Kendra 

* Mission 10000 Swavalambis- Dreams2Reality stories of grit 

* Signs MoU with Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship 

* Rapid profiling of 11 states for entrepreneurial opportunities 

* Felicitating Covid responsive entities and associations 

Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), the principal financial institution engaged in the promotion, financing and development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), has rolled out various developmental measures for MSMEs celebrating the World MSME Day of June 27, 2021 in the form of a ‘Developmental Week’. 

Under its project SAHAS, SIDBI has soft launched “Swavalamban Chair for MSME Solutions”, at Government Engineering College, Thrissur. The Chair shall have action research and inducing entrepreneurship culture as its core thrust. It is supported by Swavalamaban Resource Facility which has been set up in partnership with Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, United Kingdom. It shall bring product/process solutions to enterprises in the region, support youth under mentorship of professors to map the local pain points, shape their solutions/idea, test, validate and launch their entrepreneurial ventures. The Chair shall also foster inter-college learnings.  

Shri Sivasubramanian Ramann, Chairman and Managing Director of SIDBI said, “Our role is to empower entrepreneurs and encourage entrepreneurship during these challenging times. Keeping this in mind, through the various initiatives, we are planning to support the enterprise development cycle comprising ideation, setting up, revive and thrive as also stepping up. On one hand we are working towards identifying more livelihood entrepreneurs and on the other hand we are taking steps to build their capacity for emerging stronger. With these measures fructifying, we hope to create a society with more job creators rather than job seekers.”  

With an objective to handhold budding entrepreneurs, SIDBI has provided support to Confederation of Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (CIMSME) for setting up ‘Swavalamban Suvidha Kendra’. The Kendra shall address information asymmetry challenges and render responsive solutions to inquisitive youth, serve anxious enterprises facing Covid challenges, assist in Udyam registration and enable Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) to go for digital solutions like Udyamimitra portal, Standupmitra portal, PSB Loans in 59 minutes etc.   

SIDBI has also felicitated Covid responsive MSEs and associations by sponsoring meals on their behalf through Akshay Patra Foundation for Covid impacted population. SIDBI has distributed 2.10 lakh meals during this Covid period.  Also, to showcase the emerging entrepreneurs and job creators, SIDBI has, under its Mission 10000 Swavalambis initiative, documented their stories. These inspirational stories are aimed at shaping dreams of aspirational Bharat and help them walk the job creator journey.  

SIDBI has also entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ‘Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship’ to help MSMEs address their challenges faced during the Covid crisis. The broad themes covered under the MoU include expanding credit access, increasing formalization, building competitive clusters, and improving the legal framework for ease of doing business. 

To identify entrepreneurial opportunities for migrant population impacted by Covid, rapid profiling in 11 states namely, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu has been carried out. In these states, SIDBI has setup Project Management Units based on the recommendations of the UK Sinha Committee on MSMEs. The inputs are expected to facilitate decisions on entrepreneurial ventures at local/regional levels. 

About SIDBI: Since its formation in 1990, SIDBI has been impacting the lives of citizens across various strata of the society through its integrated, innovative and inclusive approach. Be it traditional, domestic small entrepreneurs, bottom-of-the-pyramid entrepreneurs, to high-end knowledge-based entrepreneurs, SIDBI has directly or indirectly touched the lives of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) through various credit and developmental engagements. SIDBI 2.0 carries the vision of inclusive, innovative and impact-oriented engagements.   

Swanrose India, Subsidiary Of Swanrose Inc. Brings Disruptive Technology To India, USA In The Health And Safety Space

Swanrose started business in April 2020, with a vision to launch disruptive liberating products to help people “live a limitless life”. This week the first product launches in India and the USA simultaneously. Just Human is a revolutionary 24 hour hand sanitizer (use just once a day) a game changer in the hand sanitizer space and is the first hand sanitizer to provide extended protection. The 24 hour efficacy is backed by GLP Lab certification. Just Human 24 hourhand sanitizer is made with proprietary US technology. The product got USFDA registration and DCGI clearance in India in late Dec. Swanrose has an ethos of local production to support jobs and families in the countries it sells, so in the USA it is made in USA and in India it is made in India. Later this year, Swanrose has a slueth of other disruptive products slated for launch once again in both the US and Indian markets. It will also enter other territories like UAE and South America. All its products follow its vision of positively impacting humanity. 

The technology:

The proprietary key used in our hand sanitizer was derived from an original formulation developed over 30 years ago.Since that time, it has been used in a wide array of consumer products. It has an unparalleled safety record for nearly three decades, and its efficacy and capabilities have been vetted by leading scientific organizations worldwide. It’s won various technology awards and eventually was re-engineered into a proprietary formulated alcohol base to extend its uses in other applications, in this case,as a hand sanitizer. The molecules attach themselves to a surface and forms microscopic “spars”. These spars rupture the cell membranes of all microbes coming in contact with it, providing the mechanical kill, and negating the need for toxic chemicals. As a result, microbes are destroyed and prevented from contaminating the hand. The resulting compound is non-toxic.

How It works:

Just Human contains two specialized compounds. Both compounds work together at a nano level, to protect you. One compound 70% Ethanol as recommended by the CDC and WHO, kills germs and viruses instantly on your hands, whilst the other compound - an antimicrobial forms a bionic shield made of non-toxicmolecules which bind to your hand and providea protective coating. This molecule has been nano-engineered to bindand pierces the cell wall of any micro-organism, thereby instantly killing it.Once the sanitizer dries, the SPARS bind to the surface of the hand, providing a layer of active protection that lab testing shows lasts for 24 hours.

Target Consumer

Just Human’s target consumer is just about anyone but our focus is on the most vulnerable.People such as parents with kids under the age of 12, senior citizens and people with co-morbidities. Our second focus is on situations that expose you to be vulnerable like gyms, salons, movie halls, weddings and team sports like cricket, football, kabaddi etc.

Where is it manufactured:

Just Human is made in India with US proprietary technology.

Where is it available:

Just Human is currently available on our website: www.justhuman.co.in and on Amazon. We should be at your neighborhood store soon.

The Journey so far…

In April 2020, Swanrose started producing alcohol based hand sanitizers in order to help with the COVID crisis. The first product launch was Aristocrat and Humasteboth alcohol-based hand sanitizer in India and the USA. The revenues for the first 3 months were 2.2 million USD (80% US sales  and 20% India sales).

As Swanrose grew, we quickly realized conventional alcohol based sanitizers (what’s currently available in the market) were not really helping people as they evaporate within 30 seconds of use leaving you completely exposed. Hence you need to repeatedly use them sometimes as much as 10 to 15 times a day along with the fear that clouds you if you have touched a surface and forgotten to use it. This was not in line with our vision of helping people “Live a limitless life” so we started searching for technologies and smart science around the world and Just Human the 24 hour hand sanitizer was born. Months of lab testing to get USFDA registration and DCGI clearance we are finally ready to launch a product the allows you to experience a “limitless life with the power of once” as a once a day sanitizer.

In a few short months, we’ve established a new business line with production &distribution  agreements across India, United States and the UAE.

Roshini Sanah Jaiswal, CEO of Swanrose Inc said: “After many years - I have found my purpose with Swanrose – It combines my interests in science and technology with my desire to make a difference in people’s lives. Just Human 24 Hour Hand Sanitizer is precisely that -Smart Science designed beautifully”

CredR Fuels Journey With Rs. 48.1 Crore ($ 6.5 Mn) Round - Yamaha Motors & Astarc Ventures Join The Ride

* Round co-led by Omidyar Network India and Eight Roads Ventures

The Bangalore-based Incredible Technologies Private Limited (CredR), has raised Rs. 48.1 crore ($ 6.5 Mn), in its latest round led by Yamaha Motors, and existing investors Omidyar Network India and Eight Roads Ventures, with participation from automotive focused Astarc Ventures. CredR, India’s largest used two-wheeler consumer brand, creates an omnichannel buying experience, through a chain of flagship showrooms across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Delhi, NCR and Rajasthan. The funding will be used towards consolidating its market position, strengthening its technology platform and expanding customer offerings.

Founded in 2015, CredR has been focused on formalising the unorganised and fragmented used two-wheeler market, with over 1,00,000 dealers, across India. Even though India's used two wheeler market accounts for over 30 million annualised units, challenges around standardisation of pricing, strong quality inspection and customer experience, and most notably post-sales support, persist. CredR's mission is to solve for the existing trust deficit in the category through their full-stack vertically-integrated business model empowered with technology.

By reimagining the entire customer journey, CredR has been able to help over 300,000 Indians own a used two-wheeler of their choice since its launch. On its online platform, customers can discover and book a used two-wheeler of their choice. They can then complete the test ride and the final transaction by visiting their nearest CredR Showroom. CredR also offers home test rides and contactless home deliveries of their used two-wheelers. This focus on customer experience and offering has helped make it one of the best loved two-wheeler consumer brands in the country.

Speaking about the company’s goal for the future, Sasidhar Nandigam, Co-founder, CredR said, “Our partnership with Yamaha Motors validates our shared vision to provide customers the best option to buy / sell used two-wheelers. They are a name to be reckoned with in the global mobility sphere. The funds raised in this round would help us to go deeper into existing markets and provide world class customer experience empowered with  technology.”

Elaborating further on CredR’s fundraise, Nandigam said, “We are excited to partner with Yamaha Motors in our journey to build India’s first used two-wheeler consumer brand. Yamaha Motors’ comprehensive understanding and experience in the two-wheeler mobility segment aligns with our first-to-market business model. The pandemic has catalysed the already existing demand for affordable private mobility in India, and these funds will allow us to scale rapidly and fulfil this demand.”

Commenting on this investment, Hajime Aota, Senior General Manager of New Venture Business Development & R&D Strategy Section, Technical Research & Development Center of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., said, “India is one of the biggest mobility markets in the world and the personal freedom that motorcycles and scooters bring, is a huge and lasting benefit for this country’s people, regardless of whether they are new or used. CredR’s clear vision behind its thriving used two-wheeler business resonated with us, and we decided to invest in the company to help their business scale bigger, which will subsequently lead to a higher quality of life for India’s people.”

Aditya Misra, Principal, Omidyar Network India, said, “We first invested in CredR in 2019 and are doubling down because we continue to believe that two-wheelers are the choice of transportation as much in the top 30 cities in India as the rest of the country. The pandemic has accelerated the need for affordable private ownership especially among the Next Half Billion. We find CredR’s customer-centric technology first mindset applied to their O2O (online to offline) model to be a massive advantage that can go a long way in enhancing trust for consumers.”

Kavish Kothari, Principal, Eight Roads Ventures, said, “The pandemic has caused a significant shift in consumer behaviour when it comes to mobility. Consumers today are considering owning their own vehicle to feel safer. The pre-owned two-wheeler market stands to benefit as consumers seek more economical options from organised players in the market. With their value-for-money options, contactless service and delivery and partnerships with credible OEMs, CredR is well positioned to revolutionise the pre-owned two-wheeler market in India.”

Due to the economic situation created by the pandemic, consumers looking for vehicles are increasingly inclined to purchasing personal two-wheelers. CredR will look to use these tailwinds and its latest funding round to expand its business, invest in technology and leverage the fast growing market for used two-wheelers.

About Incredible Technologies Pvt Ltd. (CredR)

CredR is India’s largest and only omni-channel consumer brand for buying and selling used two-wheelers. Founded in 2015, CredR, aims to simplify the entire process of transacting used two-wheelers, by offering industry-first-in-class products/ services, for building trust in a segment which is highly unorganised and fragmented. The company operates India’s first and largest chain of CredR showrooms across major cities like Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Jaipur, Bhilwara, Sikar and Chittorgarh. These showrooms offer customers with a wide range of used, refurbished two-wheelers at the best prices. Using its proprietary technology and full-stack, vertically-integrated business model, CredR is revolutionizing the entire customer experience in the used two-wheeler space.

The company is backed by marquee blue-chip funds such as Yamaha Motors, Astarc Ventures, Eight Road Ventures (Fidelity's proprietary investment arm), Omidyar Network India, BlackSoil, AngelList, K Ganesh (GrowthStory) and angel investors like Amit Agarwal (CEO, Amazon India), Rohit Bansal, Kunal Bahl, Sameer Sawhney and Debajit Das.

About Yamaha Motors Co. Limited

Yamaha Motor (TOKYO: 7272) is a world-leading enterprise manufacturing land-mobility such as motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, and electrically power assisted bicycles, marine products such as boats and outboard motors, robotics products such as surface mounters and drones, as well as engagement in the finance business. The company’s diverse businesses and wide variety of products are built around its proprietary technologies focused on powertrain, chassis and hull, electronic control, and manufacturing technologies. Yamaha Motor operates global development, production and sales networks through 140 subsidiaries and equity-method affiliates in 30 countries and regions, working to realize our Corporate Mission of being a “Kando* creating a company.”

About 90% of consolidated net sales are generated in more than 180 countries and regions outside of Japan.

*Kando is a Japanese word for the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value.

Gen X And Gen Z Inclined Towards Altruism; Millennials More Environment Conscious: Little Things We Do Study

* Godrej Group’s latest survey ‘Little Things We Do’ highlights how last year’s lockdown revealed how different age groups across the country coped with it in different ways

Different age groups across India dealt with last year’s national lockdown amid the COVID-19 pandemic in their own unique ways, the Godrej Group’s ‘Little Things We Do’ study has found.

A majority of those in the Gen X grouping (59%), aged 45 and above, and the Gen Z (53%) grouping, aged 18-24, turned to altruism, distributing sanitizers, food packets, old clothes, blankets, or medical devices to those in need.

A majority of millennials (54%) made environmentally-conscious actions their top priority. A dissection of the millennials age-group further revealed that younger millennials (25-34) were the most environmentally-conscious amongst all age-groups with 54.83% giving top-most priority to growing plants at home, being conscious of energy consumption and of the environmental impact of the products they purchased.

The ‘Little Things We Do’ research was commissioned by the Godrej Group to highlight how little contributions and their subsequent impact often leaves a lasting mark on our lives.

Almost three out of five (59%) millennials took to a physical or mental fitness activity like yoga, zumba, walking or meditation to keep themselves healthy and happy. At the same time only a small percentage quit vices such as smoking, overspending, junk eating and drinking across all age groups

Only 36% of respondents surveyed said they had quit unhealthy habits. Gen Z fared the worst on this count (34%) followed by Gen X (35%). Eating healthy home-made food due to lockdown restrictions warranted a behaviourial consensus amongst respondents falling in the Gen Z and younger millennials (74%) group in comparison to older millennials (75%) and Gen X (77%).

Sujit Patil, Vice President & Group Head - Corporate Brand and Communications, Godrej, described the research as an insight into the minds of different consumer age-groups in response to a challenging period. He said, “The current pandemic has taken a toll on the lifestyle and aspirations of Indians. People from different age groups, therefore, have started incorporating ‘little’ changes in their lives that can boost mental and physical wellbeing. While some of the age groups have shown great interest towards altruism, others have taken steps to safeguard their own health and wellbeing.

He further added, “There is a scope improvement in the area of hand and product sanitization as only 86% of respondents said they are sanitizing their hands or things as a measure to stay healthy and happy. This does requires a concerted effort from all of us to raise the bar of personal hygiene further. ”

According to the study, confinement and other restrictions have also given time for entertainment and spending time with family: more than a quarter (27.35%) of respondents contented themselves by spending time with family and watching content (26.59%) and nearly a quarter (23.19%) preferred to spend time reading or listening to music. Almost one in every five started cooking as a form of positive therapy.

To stay positive and happy during lockdown, almost 33% of the Gen X-ers surveyed preferred to spend time with family, followed by watching OTT content and TV shows (21%) or listening to music or reading books (23%). In contrast, for other age-groups watching content on OTT platforms or listening to music was their go-to space for happiness.

About Godrej

Established in 1897, the Godrej Group has its roots in India's Independence and Swadeshi movement. Our founder, Ardeshir Godrej, lawyer-turned-serial entrepreneur failed with a few ventures, before he struck gold with a locks business. Today, we enjoy the patronage of 1.2 billion consumers globally across consumer goods, real estate, appliances, agriculture and many other businesses. In fact, our geographical footprint extends beyond Earth, with our engines now powering many of India's space missions. With revenues of over USD 5 billion we are growing fast, and have exciting, ambitious aspirations. For us, it is most important that besides our strong financial performance and innovative, much-loved products, we remain a good company. About 23 per cent of the promoters’ holding in the Godrej Group is held in trusts that invest in the environment, health and education. We are also bringing together our passion and purpose to make a difference through our Good & Green strategy of 'shared value' to create a more inclusive and greener India. At the heart of all of this, are our people. We take much pride in fostering an inspiring workplace, with an agile and high performance culture. We are deeply committed to recognizing and valuing diversity across our teams.

Three Startups Incubated At riidl Received A SEED Funding Of INR 75 Lakhs Through BIRAC

Three startups Beaniesnak Foods Pvt Ltd, Inphlox Water Systems Pvt Ltd, Savemom Pvt Ltd incubated at riidl have received a total of INR 75 Lakhs through the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development Fund (SEED) funding, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. BIRAC SEED Funding enables these startups to graduate to a level where they will be able to raise investments from Venture capitalists or seek loans from banks. Thus, the proposed seed support is positioned to bridge promoters investment and Venture/Angel investment. 

Indra Water (Registered as Inphlox Water Systems Pvt Ltd) makes decentralized and modular wastewater treatment & monitoring systems based on their patented physio-electrical process technology. Their work has been recognized globally and they've received awards from Imagine H2O, Columbia University, Millennium Alliance to mention a few. They have ongoing engagements with more than 25 customers and saved 200M+ Liters of water, positively impacting 5,00,000+ people. 

Savemom Pvt Ltd is a med-tech project aimed to reduce 'maternal and infant mortality and morbidity with timely and appropriate care during the First 1000 days with the help of our AI-enabled IoT Kit and Telemedicine software. Our traction from the last 18 months includes 22,856 home-based antenatal care, identified 382 high-risk mothers, 1428 mothers have delivered their babies successfully and we onboard 300 mothers every month. 

Beaniesnak Foods Pvt Ltd manufactures nachos from beans which will aid your health as well as taste benefits with exotic flavours. The key aim is to provide 5 benefits incorporated in one single snack (Healthy, tasty, filling, inexpensive, high-protein). They aim to replace the snacking habits of the customers who rely on processed foods like potato chips, and many fried snacks available in the market. This is the only brand in India that is currently making bean nachos and is a healthy alternative to corn nachos. It's gluten-free, vegan & consists of proteins and fibres. 

Gaurang Shetty, Chief Innovation Catalyst, riidl said, “Our startups are on track to empower millions by enabling access to affordable healthcare, sustainable food, Cleantech solutions for our environment and other impact-driven solutions. Their products have won national and international accolades and are getting good traction. We hope to support more early-stage entrepreneurs through our programs.”

riidl is a technology business incubator that supports the creation and incubation of early-stage companies from ideation to commercialization by providing them with resources, labs, government grants, investor connections, funding and mentorship. 

Bioriidl has set up India’s First and only Do-It-Yourself Biolab, and a Bio-Incubator at riidl, an incubation cell for Biotechnology startups, working on projects in various stages of incubation from development stage to testing. 

About Somaiya Vidyavihar University: 

Padma Bhushan Karamshi Jethabhai Somaiya founded Somaiya Vidyavihar, an education trust in 1959, to provide quality holistic education. It was founded on the belief that education is an important pillar of nation-building with the power to change lives, and education must innovate to encourage the holistic development of youth. It is known as much for its Science, Technology, Engineering, Management, Social Sciences, and Commerce programs, as for its programs for academic studies in various faiths and cultures of India. 

With over six decades of rich experience in building and managing educational institutes of great repute, Somaiya Vidyavihar has become a Private University in 2019, bringing all of its self-financing higher education institutions and the self-financing programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate level under one umbrella. The University was enacted by an Act of the Maharashtra State Legislature and approved by the University Grants Commission, Government of India.

Kyndryl Names Lingraju Sawkar As The New President Of India

Kyndryl, the independent public company that will be created following the separation of IBM's Managed Infrastructure Services business, today announced that it has appointed Lingraju Sawkar as President of Kyndryl in India.

Mr. Sawkar’s appointment is a key step in creating Kyndryl’s new global leadership model, which has been simplified to accelerate decision-making and bring expertise and skills closer to its customers.

“Kyndryl will organize around our customers and ensure we are providing access to senior leadership and the best talent and skills in each market,” said Kyndryl’s Chief Executive Officer Martin Schroeter. “I am pleased that Lingraju will lead our team in India, a key market and innovation base for Kyndryl. His strong customer relationships and knowledge of the services market will be critical as we help our customers reach their peak digital performance and achieve their biggest ambitions.”

Mr. Sawkar has an established record in the region of successfully helping customers address their most important business challenges. Presently he is General Manager of IBM Global Technology Services for India/South Asia, India’s leading Services Integrator for IT Infrastructure Managed Services. He previously led the transformation of IBM Global Technology Services in India/South Asia, establishing it into a next-generation services value integrator. Mr. Sawkar’s experience and ability to effectively lead talented technology teams as they work with new and innovative technologies will help Kyndryl uncover new, intelligent and effective value for its customers.

“I am very excited  to take on this role  to serve our customers’ technology transformations which is a great responsibility because these are the vital systems that power human progress,” said Lingraju. “Together we will address our customers’ toughest challenges and help lead their transformation journeys.”

To ensure not only its leadership but also its offerings are closely aligned with customer needs, Kyndryl also announced it will create an integrated global practice for customers, combining managed services, advisory services and implementation. The company is organizing into six global practices, including Cloud; Core Enterprise & zCloud; Applications, Data & AI; Digital Workplace; Security & Resiliency; and Network & Edge.

These announcements are important milestones that will prepare Kyndryl for future success – nothing will change with the IBM Global Technology Services business until after responsibility passes to the Kyndryl team. Other key leadership and reporting structure announcements will follow in the near future.

Kyndryl designs, runs and manages the most modern, efficient and reliable technology infrastructure for the world's most important businesses and organizations, with the industry's most experienced services experts. Its previously announced separation is expected to occur by the end of 2021. For more information, visit www.kyndryl.com

Hero Motocorp Sells More Than A Million Units In Q1 Of FY’22 Despite COVID-19 Related Disruptions

* Sells More Than 4.6 Lakh Motorcycles & Scooters In June 2021

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has commenced the Financial Year (FY) 2021-22 with sales of over a million units during the first quarter (April-June).

During this quarter, the auto industry witnessed significant disruptions triggered by the second wave of the Coronavirus pandemic, restricting movement of logistics and dampening customer sentiments.

Despite the unprecedented challenges, Hero MotoCorp sold 10,24,507 units of motorcycles and scooters in the first quarter of the fiscal – reflecting the strong resilience of the Indian economy and the inherent market demand for personal mobility.  

With the gradual easing of the COVID-19 related restrictions and lockdowns across key markets in the country, the company witnessed a strong rebound in the month of June to sell 469,160 units of motorcycles and scooters.

In compliance with the guidelines as prescribed by state and local authorities, almost all of the customer touchpoints of Hero MotoCorp are now operational, with strict safety measures and protocols in place.

Heading into the upcoming festive season, the company remains cautiously optimistic about the customer demand in the coming months. The expected surge in personal mobility, forecast of a normal monsoon in several parts of the country and the improving rural sentiment are expected to lead to a swift revival in sales.

Hero MotoCorp highly appreciates the positive interventions by the government to revive the economy and provide support to industries impacted by the second-wave of COVID-19.

Till date, 92% of the entire workforce of Hero MotoCorp has been vaccinated with the first dose.

  June’ 21 June’20 YTD FY’22 YTD FY’21

Motorcycles       4,41,536  4,18,141    9,59,589       5,24,179

Scooters          27,624     33,842        64,918          40,486

Total      4,69,160 4,51,983 10,24,507       5,64,665

Domestic       4,38,514  4,30,889     9,40,707       5,39,737

Exports          30,646     21,094        83,800          24,928

April-June 2021 Highlights

Operations • The company initially extended the shutdown at its manufacturing facilities across India, its Global Parts Center (GPC) in Neemrana and its R&D facility – the Centre of Innovation and Technology (CIT) in Jaipur till May 16, 2021

• The company gradually resumed its operations from May 17’ by starting single shift production at three of its plants – Gurugram and Dharuhera in Haryana and at Haridwar in the northern hill state of Uttarakhand

• The company resumed production at all its manufacturing plants in India from May 24, 2021 onwards

• Hero MotoCorp proactively paused its operations temporarily during the second wave at all of its manufacturing facilities across the country, including its Global Parts Center (GPC), in view of the ongoing escalation in the spread of Covid-19 across the country

Global Business • The company strengthened its Global Business Operations

o Kewalram Chanrai Group becomes an exclusive distributor of Hero MotoCorp in Nigeria. Launched the ‘developed for Nigeria motorcycle’ Hunter

o MOVESA becomes an exclusive distributor partner of Hero MotoCorp in Honduras. Will offer comprehensive product portfolio in the country across the premium, commuter, on-off road motorcycle segments

o KIPESA becomes an exclusive distributor partner of Hero MotoCorp in Nicaragua

Partnerships • Hero MotoCorp announced a strategic partnership with Gogoro® Inc. to accelerate the shift to sustainable electric mobility in India

• The joint venture to bring Gogoro’s industry leading battery swapping platform to India and collaborate on electric vehicle development to bring Hero branded, powered by Gogoro Network vehicles to market

Customer Outreach Programs • Hero MotoCorp launched a new challenge under its Hero CoLabs platform - The eXPerience Challenge.

• Under this, the participants were required to showcase their vision for a NextGen sales and after-sales customer experience, catering to the new innovative and exciting products and mobility solutions from Hero MotoCorp

• Hero MotoCorp extended the duration of all its warranty and free services to ensure that customers are not required to visit dealerships in a rush to avail of the services

• This was also in keeping with its commitment to the safety and welfare of its people, its customers and to break the chain of the spread of Covid-19

Harley-Davidson • Hero MotoCorp along with Harley-Davidson announced the H-D 2021 Model Year Pricing

• Introduced the Pan America Adventure Tourer along with bookings open for the 2021 range

Digital Initiatives • Hero MotoCorp launched a comprehensive range of sales and aftersales services on the messaging app – WhatsApp. Customers can avail a host of services from an easy-to interact menu-based chat-bot that can be accessed 24*7 on the messaging platform

• The company launched Virtual Showroom feature to provide an Immersive Digital Buying Experience to customers. The feature will enable customers to discover, engage and purchase Hero’s motorcycles and scooters through a seamless digital experience

CSR Initiatives • Under its CSR platform “Hero We Care”, Hero MotoCorp extended its support to the Community Health Centre (CHC) at Satyavedu in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, by providing 50 additional beds and medical equipment.

• Sri Koneti Adhimulam, Honorable MLA of Satyavedu inaugurated the new upgraded COVID Care Center facility

• Under “Hero We Care”, Hero MotoCorp partnered with the District Administration of Gurugram in Haryana to set-up a makeshift 100-bed Covid Care Centre in the city

• Hon’ble Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri Manohar Lal inaugurated the Covid Care Centre

• The Company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) in Haryana for the ecological restoration and conservation of the Aravali Biodiversity Park

• Partnered with the Ramakrishna Mission Sevashrama, Kankhal (RMSK) at Haridwar in Uttarakhand for strengthening their healthcare system and response to Covid-19 with 122-bed Covid-hospital

• Hero MotoCorp provided its motorcycles and scooters for safe, personal commuting by health workers and medical staff in several states, including Delhi & NCR, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan and Gujarat

• Contributed oxygen cylinders for emergency medical use by some of the hospitals in Delhi and Haryana along with donating PPE kits to several states

People First • Initiated Covid-19 vaccination drive across the organization, including its permanent and contractual employees

• The Company also facilitated similar vaccination initiative across its group companies such as Hero FinCorp, Hero Future Energies, Rockman Industries, Hero Electronix and AG Industries

• In order to ensure the safety of people across its ecosystem, Hero MotoCorp also worked closely with its dealers and supply chain partners to facilitate similar vaccination for their employees

Hero MotoSports • Hero MotoSports Team Rally completed the Rally Kazakhstan with all three riders finishing the rally inside the top 10 positions

• Joaquim Rodrigues, won the final stage of the rally, Rodrigues finished the Rally in seventh place, Caimi in eighth and Buhler in ninth place in the overall rankings

• Hero MotoSports Team Rally completed their first rally of the new season on a strong note with two of its riders finishing in the Top 5 in overall standings. Joaquim Rodrigues and Franco Caimi, placed fourth and fifth respectively

Union Minister of Finance Nirmala Sitharaman Visits Boeing-Supported COVID-Care Facility In Yelahanka, Bengaluru

Union Minister of Finance Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman today visited the Boeing-supported COVID-care facility in Yelahanka, Bengaluru. The 100 oxygenated-bed hospital at Karnataka State Power Corporation Ltd. (KSPCL) has been e stablished by Boeing India, in partnership with the Government of Karnataka, Doctors For You (DFY) and SELCO Foundation, for public healthcare support in the region.

The COVID-care facility was inaugurated on June 19 in the presence of Shri D.V. Sadanand Gowda, Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers and Shri B.S. Yediyurappa, Chief Minister of Karnataka. The hospital was built from ground up in 20 working days and will treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 cases. Of the 100-oxygen beds, 10-beds are dedicated for ICU services and 20-beds for High Dependency Units (HDU) ward. Boeing India funded the facility, DFY is providing the necessary staff and care, SELCO Foundation set up the pre-fabricated facility, and KSPCL provided the land necessary for the hospital. Boeing has also provided medical equipment, including CT scanners, ventilators, oxygen cylinders and concentrators, flow meters, and ambulances to the hospital.

The KSPCL campus in Yelahanka was chosen because of its proximity to an already existing oxygen generation plant. The design and construction of the hospital has been done in an environmentally friendly manner – building materials were chosen to maximize thermal comfort for patients and hospital staff. Day lighting and solar power for night-time electricity requirements ensures reliability and efficiency.

Boeing launched a $10 million emergency assistance package on April 30 to support India's COVID-19 response. As part of its COVID relief efforts, Boeing is working with central and state governments in India, and with international relief organizations to set up COVID-19 care hospitals and provide medical supplies for the treatment of patients. The Yelahanka COVID-care facility is the first such hospital to be inaugurated under this initiative.

About Boeing

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity.

Boeing’s presence in India goes back to more than seven decades. The company remains committed to delivering value to Indian customers with advanced technologies and to building a strong indigenous aerospace ecosystem by developing local suppliers and shaping academic and research collaborations with Indian institutions. Boeing’s advanced aircraft and services play an important role in the mission-readiness of the Indian armed services.

Boeing’s local sourcing totals $1 billion annually from a large and growing network of 250 local companies that manufacture critical systems and components for some of Boeing’s most advanced products, including the 787 Dreamliner and 777 family of aircraft. The Tata-Boeing joint venture manufactures fuselages for Apache helicopters and recently added a new production line to produce vertical fin structures for the 737 family of airplanes. Through local community engagement we are bringing impactful change to more than 300,000 lives in India. 

Bank Limitless With The Coolest Current Account With No NMC From Equitas SFB

* With this the bank becomes one amongst the first  private sector banks to waive off Non-maintenance charges across CASA, supporting small businesses~ 

Equitas Small Finance Bank modifies the Current Account proposition by simplifying banking for the Current Account holders, by waiving off Non-maintenance charges. Considering the current scenario of the pandemic, this announcement will empower the account holders to bank stress-free. Equitas SFB will be one amongst the first private sector banks to waive off NMC across CASA, thereby making banking simple and limitless.  

At Equitas SFB, we believe in providing convenience and hassle free banking. Paying penalty on one’s own account creates large level dissatisfaction amongst customers. The bank has addressed this by waiving off NMC across CASA, taking the customers to the Golden-Olden days of limitless banking. The bank further said that the transactions will be charged if balance falls below 75% of the requirement and hence accommodating customers for months with low turnover and ensuring complete support to businesses. This combination of waiver of non-maintenance charges and free transactions limits will be of immense advantage to entrepreneurs, traders, self-employed professionals and small businesses impacted during both the COVID-19 waves by enabling them to focus on business. Customers with low transactions intensity and high liquidity can avail Sweep-in Sweep-out FD facility, which enables the Current Account holders to earn from the idle funds. In simple words, this account is like the caretaker you wish to have, who takes care of your needs and does not take your time to do regular checks on the account thresholds. That’s what we call a “Cool Account”! 

Here is more the Current Account holds for the small businesses: 

Free cash deposit limit from Home Location/Non-Home Location/ATM.  

POS machines are now available with exclusive offers and low MDR rates.  

Free doorstep banking for Wings and Trade-in Current Accounts. 

50% waiver of AMB for semi-urban and rural locations. 

The bank has also taken steps to support the women proprietors in Metro/Urban locations by offering a 50% waiver of AMB for Business Prime, Advance and Trade-in Current Account. The bank has always been at the forefront of leveraging digital technologies to cater to the customer needs and are in the process of developing a digital Current Account opening facility to make on-boarding a seamless and convenient experience for the customers.  

Speaking about the announcement Mr. Murali Vaidyanathan, Senior President & Country Head, Branch Banking Liabilities Product & Wealth Equitas Small Finance Bank said, “At Equitas SFB, we do regular quality checks to cross-check if our product portfolios and designs are working towards its goal to provide our customers with convenience, safety and also financial well-being. We have modified our existing product design considering the prevailing situation, thus coming up with an optimal pricing platform solution, which is the need of the hour to mitigate the impact of the crisis.” 

“The waiver of non-maintenance charges is a crucial step forward to aid our customers in strengthening their financial resilience and to enjoy banking, stress-free. The Sweep-In Sweep-Out FD service where the Current Account holders get interests on their idle funds is an ideal means to help them enhance their savings while they focus on building their small businesses. We are proud to be one of the first banks to bring-in this facility for our Current Account customers. We firmly believe in the mantra of Value Banking and will continue to invest our energies in offering the best of products and services in the segment to simplify banking for all.”  

About Equitas Small Finance Bank Limited [ESFBL]  

Equitas Small Finance Bank Limited is the largest SFB in India in terms of number of banking outlets, and the second largest SFB in India in terms of assets under management and total deposits in Fiscal 2019. (Source: CRISIL report). Its focus customer segments include individuals with limited access to formal financing channels on account of their informal, variable and cash-based income profile. It offers a range of financial products and services that address the specific requirements of these customer segments by taking into account their income profile, nature of business and type of security available. Its asset products are suited to a range of customers with varying profiles. 

Sunteck Realty Limited Announces Financial Results For Q4 & FY21

* Pre-sales grew by 6% Q-o-Q to Rs 371 cr in Q4 FY21 

* Collections grew by 27% Q-o-Q and 83% Y-o-Y to Rs 321 cr in Q4 FY21  

* Net debt to equity ratio strengthened to 0.18x in FY21 from 0.24x in FY20  

* Strong positive operating cash flow of Rs 286 cr generated in FY21 

Sunteck Realty Limited, luxury real estate developer, announced its Q4 and FY21 financial results.  

Q4FY21 Highlights – 

* Strong pre-sales witnessed during the quarter. 

* Highest-ever collections achieved during the quarter. 

* Acquisition of ~7 acre land parcel at Borivali (West), under the asset light JDA model. The residential project in the western suburbs of Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) will have ~1 mn sq ft of development potential.  

* Strong cash flows during the quarter resulting in further reduction of negligible net debt (excl. quasi-equity) to 0.18x from 0.24x in FY20. Our average cost of borrowing has further come down during the quarter. 

FY21 Highlights – 

* Strong positive operating cash flow of Rs 286 cr generated in FY21 

* Highest-ever pre-sales achieved in the mid-income segment driven by residential projects at ODC, Goregaon West - a Y-o-Y growth of 77%.  

* Strong pre-sales also witnessed in the ready to move in projects across segments. 

* Highest-ever collections achieved in a financial year in FY21 at Rs 780 cr. 

* Aggressive project acquisition done in FY21 within the industry - 3 new project acquisitions under the asset-light strategy totaling to approx. 8 mn sq ft. at Vasai, * Vasind and Borivali. These projects will further strengthen the cash flows and balance sheet of the company. 

* The consolidated net debt has been reduced to Rs 498 cr (excl. quasi-equity) improving the Net D/E to 0.18x from 0.24x in FY20. 

Koo Publishes Compliance Report - First Indian Social Media Platform To Make It Publicly Available

In accordance with*Rule 4(d) of the of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 of the Government of India, Koo has become the first Indian social media platform to publish a social media compliance report in the manner required by the Rules.  Going forward, the Compliance Report will be published and available on the first day of each month and, where appropriate, will include additional insights.

The report for June 2021 shows that of the 5,502 Koos reported by the Community, 22.7 percent (1,253) were removed, while other action was taken against the rest – 4,249. Similarly, Koo took steps to proactively moderate 54,235 Koos, of which 2.2 percent (1,996) were removed while other action was taken against the rest – 52,239. ‘Other action’ includes overlay, blur, ignore, warn, etc., Koos that do not comply with GoI guidelines.

Aprayameya Radhakrishna, Founder & CEO, Koo said: “As Koo gains tractions across India, we will ensure thatKoo respects the law of the land and meets the requirements, enabling every country to define it's own digital ecosystem. This Compliance Report is one step in that direction.

As part of Koo’s continued efforts to make social media a safer place and provide transparency for users, we are happy to be the first social media platform to publish a Compliance Report. We will continue to make efforts to make social media a safe place for all users.”

Manyank Bidwatka, Co-founder, Koo, said: “Koo brings together Creators who can express themselves in an Indian language and Connectors to consume information in that language. Never before has a social media platform offered the opportunity for so many Indians to express themselves. Social media no longer has to be limited to those who speak, think, read and write in English.”

*Rule 4(d) requires significant social media intermediaries to “publish periodic compliance report every month mentioning the details of complaints received and action taken thereon, and the number of specific communication links or parts of information that the intermediary has removed or disabled access to in pursuance of any proactive monitoring conducted by using automated tools or any other relevant information as may be specified”

Arun Jaitley National Institute Of Financial Management, Partners Microsoft To Build AI , Emerging Technologies Center Of Excellence

·    Joint development of Center of Excellence to drive cloud and AI led innovation in fintech

·    Partnership will focus on capacity building of government officials, skilling them in emerging technologies, like AI and machine learning

The Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management (AJNIFM) and Microsoft announced a strategic partnership to build an AI and emerging technologies Center of Excellence at AJNIFM. The collaboration seeks to explore the role of cloud, AI, and emerging technologies for transforming and shaping the future of public finance management in India. 

The Center of Excellence will serve as a central body for research, AI scenario envisioning, and tech led innovation. AJNIFM and Microsoft will jointly explore use cases of emerging technologies in finance and related areas, across central and state ministries and public sector enterprises. Microsoft will partner closely with AJNIFM to define the future of public finance management in India, providing the technology, tools, and resources to build a strong ecosystem of partners, upskill government officials and build thought leadership. 

Both organizations will also work closely on a capacity building program for senior government officials in associated ministries, departments, and financial institutions. As part of this skilling effort, public sector officials will be trained on the application of emerging technologies in finance management to address potential risks like money laundering, use of machine learning models for decision making, role of responsible tech in finance, etc. Microsoft will also work closely with its partners, MSMEs, and ISVs to build customized solutions that address the challenges of the sector.

As part of the strategic partnership, Microsoft and AJNIFM will focus on:

·       Building an innovation center: Joint development of a Centre of Excellence at AJNIFM to drive AI envisioning in finance management across key associated ministries of AJNIFM.

·       Industry thought leadership: Microsoft and AJNIFM will jointly develop research papers and organize strategic knowledge sharing workshops with industry experts to discuss the role of cloud, data, and AI for re-imagining public finance management in India.

·       Reskilling and capacity building: Developers at AJNIFM and senior government officials from associated ministries will be skilled in data engineering, data sciences, AI, and machine learning etc.

·       Creating a strong ecosystem of partners: Engaging ecosystem partners, academia, and MSMEs to drive innovation in financial management based on priority scenarios.

Speaking about the partnership, Prabhat Ranjan Acharya, Director, AJNIFM, said, “The Steering Committee on fintech related issues under the chairmanship of Secretary, EA, had recommended setting up centres of excellence on fintech in key premier national institutions like AJNIFM. The ambit of research studies will seek to address key challenges in public financial management, particularly expenditure management, revenue leakages, use of emerging technologies in preventing money laundering, studying existing DBT system, and potential of application of emerging technologies including machine learning models in decision making etc. With continuous technological support from Microsoft, AJNIFM will be the only institution in the country equipped with high pedigree of financial analytical tools in the financial sector research domain.”

Commenting on this, Navtez Bal, Executive Director, Public Sector, Microsoft India, said, “AJNIFM has a long history of driving research and innovation, preparing the next generation of leaders to transform India’s finance management system. This collaboration brings together AJNIFM’s rich experience in the public sector with Microsoft’s cloud and AI capabilities, paving the way for data and AI led governance and fintech transformation.  We are excited to work together to accelerate research, enable skilling in emerging tech, and invest in building a strong industry ecosystem for public finance management in the country. “

TECNO Recreates Magic With All-New Blockbuster SPARK Go 2021 At Special Launch Price Of INR 6699

* The blockbuster smartphone makes a comeback in a newer avatar with refreshed design, aesthetics and superior specs

* Spark Go 2021 will be available for sale on Amazon ( shorturl.at/bquJO )  from 7th July 2021 at 12 noon onwards at a Special launch price of INR 6,699 for limited stock only. After this SPARK Go 2021 will be priced at INR 7299

TECNO, the global premium smartphone brand, today announced the launch of SPARK Go 2021 an upgraded version of last year blockbuster device ‘Spark Go 2020’. The product is designed to cater to the needs of the ‘Greater Bharat’ which is on the verge of transformation. They are the aspiring, value-seeking consumers who want a taste of the premium features at an affordable pricing.

Priced at INR 7299, SPARK Go 2021 will cater to the entertainment needs of Aspirational Bharat and is expected to replicate the success of SPARK Go series.

In line with this core product DNA of ‘Segment-first’, Spark Go 2021 has once again gone BIG on entertainment flaunting category defining features such as a combination of 8MP selfie camera with13MP AI dual rear camera for an enhanced photography experience in the sub-8K. The device also sports a 5000 mAh battery, 6.52 inch display and unique audio-sharing feature that enables users to connect two Bluetooth Earphones or three Bluetooth speakers simultaneously that further enhances the entertainment quotient that will make times with family and friends a truly memorable one.

Commenting on the launch, CEO of TRANSSION India, Arijeet Talapatra said, “TECNO’s achievement of 10 Million happy customers is an attestation of our popularity among category consumers across the country. We know we have delivered the right products and met the right demand requirements. SPARK series has played a pivotal role in changing the trend in sub-8K smartphones with its strong play in the battery, display and camera departments at an unmatched price point. We are confident that SPARK Go 2021, will continue SPARK series’ stellar run and will keep this momentum going. As per Counterpoint reports, on the back of SPARK series success, TECNO has consolidated its position among the elite ‘Top 5 smartphone brands’ club in the INR 5,000-10,000 category.”

Key USP’s of SPARK GO 2021:                          

BIGGER 5000mAh Battery with 36 days’ standby

The SPARK GO 2021 houses a massive 5000 mAh battery for uninterrupted, daily robust usage with a standby time of 36 days on a single charge. It also supports calling time of 27 hours, web browsing of 19 hours, video playback of 21 hours, game playing of 14 hours and music playback of 145 hours.

BIG Entertainment on 6.52” Super Big Screen in the segment

The SPARK GO 2021 sports a 6.52” HD+ Dot Notch Display with a 89.7% body to screen ratio, 480 nits brightness, 720 x 1600 resolution and 20:9 aspect ratio, for an immersive viewing experience.

The smartphone features an elegant design, glossy finish and 2.5 D glass that provides for a comfortable and firm grip in the hand, whilst adding a premium look to the smartphone.

BIG 13MP Dual rear camera for enhanced photography experience

The SPARK GO 2021 is equipped with a 13 MP AI Dual Rear Camera with an F1.8 aperture, 4X zoom and Dual Flashlight for capturing professional grade photographs in low lit environments. The larger aperture makes way for more light resulting in clearer images. It also has 18 AI Auto scene detection modes such as HDR, Night Portrait, Backlight Portrait and AI powered Background Bokeh Effect.

BIG 8MP selfie camera with microslit front flash

The selfie camera on the TECNO SPARK GO 2021 comprises of an 8MP AI front camera with an aperture of F2.0. The adjustable brightness on the micro slit front flash captures the perfect, clear selfies in low light. The selfie camera also supports AI Beauty Mode, AI Portrait Mode and Wide Selfie Mode for capturing the perfect group selfie.

BIG Security for safe user experience

TECNO SPARK Go 2021 In-built with Face Unlock 2.0 and Smart Fingerprint Sensor to protect the data and privacy of the user. Face Unlock 2.0 enables closed eye protection and screen fill in light. The Smart Fingerprint Sensor has a 0.2 seconds Fast Unlock

BIG Sharing with Audio Share

The SPARK Go 2021 also comprises of the unique Audio Share feature that enables the connection of 2 Bluetooth Earphones or 3 Bluetooth speakers simultaneously making it suitable for families and friends to enjoy the same movie and music together with separate volume controls.

Value for money

TECNO has been consistently pushing the envelope to deliver to the customers a complete ‘Smartphone experience’.  TECNO SPARK Go 2021 is a complete ‘Value Package’ at a disruptive price point of INR 7299. The ‘All-rounder’ smartphone brings in the unique brand promise of free 100 day’s 1-time screen replacement and 12-month warranty. The new device is available in three color variants – Horizon Orange, Maldives Blue and Galaxy Blue in the storage capacity of 2GB+32GB.

About TECNO

TECNO Mobile is a premium smartphone brand from TRANSSION Holdings. With “Stop at Nothing” as its brand essence, TECNO is committed to unlocking the best contemporary technologies for progressive individuals across global emerging markets, giving them elegantly designed products that inspires consumers to uncover a world of possibilities. TECNO understands the needs of consumers from different markets and provides them with localized innovations which is demonstrated through their mastery of serving consumers who are “young at heart” and never stops pursuing excellence. TECNO’s portfolio spans across smartphones, smart wearables and AIoT devices made for consumers in over 60 emerging markets across the world. TECNO is also the global Official Partner of Manchester City Football Club.

The Uncontested: The BMW M5 Competition launched in Indian Market

* Best-in-class performance: High-revving V8 engine with 625 hp, 0-100 in 3.3 seconds

* Sharper looks with new kidney-grille and BMW Laser Light

* New M modes, retuned chassis for supreme drivability and handling

* Available for booking only on the BMW Online Shop

* #BMWM #TheUncontested #TheNewM5Competition

BMW India has launched the new BMW M5 Competition in the country. The power-packed sedan will be available as completely built-up unit (CBU) and can be booked exclusively on shop.bmw.in.

The new BMW M5 Competition provides undiluted M feeling with immense performance features like retuned chassis, new shock absorbers, track mode, active M differential with centralized intelligent control, bespoke engine mounting, M multifunction seats and set-up button that come together to offer even better driving dynamics and superior comfort levels.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The M badge is boldly set for those who enjoy high performance and superior level of excellence. With the new BMW M5 Competition, we are strengthening our coveted performance portfolio in India. It is designed and engineered to offer unmatchable performance and signature attributes of BMW M. The new M5 Competition blends a business sedan’s everyday usability with unbeatable sports car dynamics more effectively than ever.”

The ex-showroom price of the new BMW M5 Competition is INR 1,61,90,000

Price prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Ex-showroom prices inclusive of GST (incl. compensation cess) as applicable but exclude Road Tax, Tax Collected at Source (TCS), RTO statutory taxes/fees, other local tax cess levies and insurance. Price / options are subject to change without prior notice.  For further information, contact an authorised BMW dealer.  The new BMW M5 Competition customers can choose from five new paint finishes: Brands Hatch Grey and Motegi Red metallic, as well as the optional with Tanzanite Blue II metallic, Aventurine Red II metallic and matt Frozen Bluestone metallic finishes from BMW Individual. The Champagne Quartz metallic shade offered previously has been renamed Alvit Grey metallic.

By visiting shop.bmw.in, customers will be able to select, customise and book the new BMW M5 Competition from the comfort of their home. They can explore a 360° view of vehicle exterior and interior along with all features and personalisation options at the click of a button. All queries on product, service packages and finance options can be addressed in real-time by interacting with a dealer representative online. Vehicle brochures, specification details and other documents are shared online avoiding any physical contact. Payments can also be made online in a secure way.

Customers of the new M5 Competition will gain membership to the exclusive BMW Excellence Club. A member’s only collective, BMW Excellence Club caters to the discerning taste of BMW customers by curating unmatched luxury experiences from around the world. The program features four main categories: Bespoke Travel, The High Life, Grandstand and BMW Privileges.

The new BMW M5 Competition.

Exterior of the new BMW M5 Competition makes an immediate impression with its front look that consist of newly designed BMW Laser lights and L-shaped light tubes connecting towards the kidney grille in narrow streaks. Black styling details all over the exterior underline its elite status. The BMW kidney grille surround, M-specific double bars, the mesh on the M gills, mirror caps and the additional rear spoiler on the boot lid all have a High-gloss Black finish. Black M5 Competition badges adorn the kidney grille, the gills and the boot lid, while the door sill plates have an illuminated version. The rear design features new 3D rear lights with densely illuminated LED bars which give a new interpretation to BMW typical “L-shape”. The rear apron includes black inserts. The tailpipes of the standard M Sport exhaust system are finished in Black Chrome.

Interior of the new BMW M5 Competition is sporty and luxurious. Bespoke upholstery in leather Merino elevates the interior in three choices – Silverstone, Aragon Brown and Black. As an exclusive option, the three choices are also available in full leather Merino upholstery with additional choice in Black / Midrand Beige. BMW Individual headliner anthracite and high-gloss Shadow Line provide a luxurious feel. M multifunction seats with integral head restraints, an illuminated ‘M5’ logo and extended functions come as standard. Exclusive functions such as M Seat belts, M footrest and pedals, M Leather Steering Wheel, seat heating (driver and front passenger), electrical seat adjustment with memory function, automatic tailgate add to the comfort. Adding to the sense of space is the large Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) sunroof. Ambient Lighting with six dimmable light designs creates an atmosphere for every mood while Automatic 4 zone A/C further enhances the in-cabin experience. Welcome Light Carpet, which is projected from the side sill, welcomes passengers in glamorous style. The car is equipped with Adaptive M-Specific Suspension, M Sport exhaust system, M high performance compound brakes and 20-inch M light alloy wheels in the standard profile.  Customers can add more equipment of their liking and further enhance the car’s sporty looks and overall experience through optional offerings such as Rear Seat Entertainment, M Carbon ceramic brakes, BMW Individual Shadow line in lights, Ambient Air package, M Carbon engine cover and 20-inch 810 M double-spoke wheels in polished Orbit Grey.

The high performance V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 Competition goes about its business in racing-car-derived, high-revving style. It imposes muscularity and supreme power delivery. Specially designed bespoke engine mounts with a stiffer spring rate result in even more rapid engine response offering greater directness and precision. The engine generates maximum output of 625 hp and peak torque of 750 Nm with 0-100 kmph acceleration in just 3.3 seconds.

The eight speed M Steptronic transmission enables extraordinary short shift times and fast, precise responses to every nudge of the accelerator. The driver can use both the selector lever and the shift paddles on the steering wheel to intervene manually. The damper response settings vary according to the mode selected with the Driving Experience Control switch, that allows the driver to choose between different modes to suit the driving conditions. The new two-button operating concept in the centre console originates from the BMW M8. Using the M Setup, the driver can further improve driving dynamics, be it comprehensive driving stabilisation. M Mode selector on the centre console. It adjusts the contents of the instrument cluster displays and the Head-Up Display and can be used to activate the ROAD and SPORT settings. The BMW M5 Competition also offers TRACK mode, for an undiluted M experience on race circuits.

Modern cockpit concept BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Operating System 7.0 includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a bigger 12.3-inch Control Display. This makes it even easier to keep a clear eye on the myriad functions associated with the driving dynamics systems and BMW M xDrive all-wheel drive, which can be altered to 2WD mode. The occupants can operate several functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW Gesture Control that recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of a number of functions. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones. Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto ensures seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions. Harman Kardon Surround Sound System conjures an engrossing treat for the ears. High-end 16 speaker system with woofers generates an impressive audio experience in all seats and is unique worldwide in the automotive sector. The sound experience can be further upgraded to the optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound system. BMW Head-Up Display to a special M View projects all information relevant to the journey directly into the driver's field of vision. BMW Display Key allows drivers to keep in contact with their car round the clock.

The new BMW M5 Competition presents best-in-class cutting-edge driver assistance systems. Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 meters driven and assists by taking over the steering. The Comfort Access System makes it possible to open all four vehicle doors without using the key.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and ECO PRO mode in Driving Experience Control.

BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors, ISOFIX child seat mounting and emergency spare wheel.

Seagram’s Royal Stag Brings Alive Harshvardhan Joshi’s Inspiring Make It Large Story

* Harshvardhan Joshi scales Mt. Everest at the young age of 25

Seagram’s Royal Stag has always inspired the youth by celebrating the spirit of dreaming, achieving and making it large. Reinforcing this philosophy, Royal Stag showcases the inspirational journeys of those who dream big and are fearless in their endeavour to fulfil their aspirations. We are proud to showcase the momentous journey of a young mountaineer, Harshvardhan Joshi who climbed the Mt. Everest & reached the summit in his very first attempt.

Harshvardhan Joshi, though only 25, is a seasoned mountaineer from Vasai, Maharashtra who found his calling for mountaineering at the age of 18. An engineer by profession, Harshvardhan’s heart was always in mountain climbing. In 2016, Harshvardhan became the youngest Indian to climb Stok Kangri (20K feet) solo.

Harshvardhan continued to follow his dream of conquering Mt. Everest with a passion to succeed. His goal was clear and in order to achieve it, he followed a strict regime of endurance training for last 6 months. As part of his preparation, he also spent more than 5 months every year in different states of the Indian Himalayas, training and scaling 11 summits in the process.

Excited about Royal Stag’s Make It Large Stories launch, Kartik Mohindra, CMO, Pernod Ricard India, said “Royal Stag has always been an iconic brand that motivates people to dream, achieve and make it large in life. Giving life to this belief, we are proud to bring alive the story of Harshvardhan Joshi & his quest to scale Mt. Everest and reach the summit. We, at Royal Stag salute his determination and hope to continue inspiring the youth of today to dream big and make it large.”

Sharing details about the expedition, Harshvardhan Joshi said, "I could not think of better partners for my first attempt to scale Mt. Everest than Royal Stag. Their philosophy of ‘Make it large’ perfectly describes this expedition. With this attempt, I wish to empower youth with the message that no dream is unattainable if you have the right support system by your side and that passion & dedication can truly move mountains!”

ABOUT PERNOD RICARD INDIA

Pernod Ricard India (P) Ltd. is a fully owned subsidiary of Pernod Ricard SA and is a fast-growing multinational alcohol beverage company delivering quality products to its consumers across the country. With leading brands in each category, Pernod Ricard holds one of the most dynamic and premium portfolios in the industry led by Seagram’s whiskies such as Royal Stag, Royal Stag Barrel Select, Blenders Pride, Blenders Pride Reserve Collection, Imperial Blue, 100 Pipers and a wide range of International premium brands that include Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute and Jameson Irish whiskey. Some of the eminent brands in white spirits category include ABSOLUT vodka, Jacob’s Creek and Campo Viejo wines, Martell cognac, Beefeater and Monkey 47 gin, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagne. Pernod Ricard India is recognized as an industry leader with various recognitions and achievements that help the company deliver quality products to the consumers. Seagram’s whiskies are exported to 26 countries across the world. Pernod Ricard India is a socially responsible organization with a strong belief to strengthen corporate citizen by addressing social, economic and environment sustainability in all key states.

Trend Micro Cloud One Delivers Projected ROI Of Up To 188 Percent

* Study calculates total projected benefits of up to $1.7 million  

Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704), a global cybersecurity leader, today announced a new study revealing that its hybrid cloud security services can save thousands of person-hours per year on security administration.  Forrester Consulting surveyed and interviewed 97 Trend Micro Cloud One customers and drew the conclusion that the services can enhance developer value and save costs on breach risks, threat detection and response and legacy tooling. 

The Forrester study found that many organizations set-up up new cloud accounts and instances without protection or utilize either legacy on-premises solutions or platform-native services. This leads to gaps in protection, low visibility, too much manual work and inconsistent policy application across cloud environments. 

The Forrester study noted that the Trend Micro Cloud One platform enables customers to simplify their cloud security environments, and even accelerate their overall cloud migration. The study noted that “Trend Micro Cloud One enabled customers to reduce their risk of a security breach, view all cloud assets and threats from a single pane of glass, automate posture management and threat detection and response, and consistently apply the appropriate policies regardless of platform or cloud service provider.” 

“Digital transformation is at the top of the to-do list for today’s global organizations, as they look to support distributed working and drive post-pandemic agility and growth with cloud adoption. But emerging security gaps can undermine all this good work,” said Vijendra Katiyar, Country Manager, India & SAARC, Trend Micro. “We’re proud to offer a leading cloud security solution on which customers can consolidate, simplify and drive-up protection whilst lowering costs and cyber-risk.”

It quantified the main projected benefits of Trend Micro Cloud One as follows: 

Annual time saved on security administration of between 2,100 and 6,200 hours thanks to automation and posture management visibility. 

Reduced cost of threat detection and response of between 19% and 27% by reducing false positives and automating investigation and response. 

Added value to development of between 8% and 16% by reducing the time developers spent on security work and accelerating time-to-value of development work. 

Reduced cost of ownership of legacy security tools between 8% and 26% by minimizing direct spend and outlays on servicing these tools. 

Cost savings from reduced risk of a breach between 6% and 16%, thanks to improved security and employee productivity otherwise lost to breach downtime.

Over a three-year period, Forrester projected ROI for Trend Micro Cloud One of 12-188%, net present value (NPV) of $73K-$1.1 million and total projected benefits of $664K-$1.7 million. 

Trend Micro is continually innovating to deliver simple, robust, and industry leading protection for customers at any point of their digital transformation through its cybersecurity platform. An important part of this security ecosystem is Trend Micro Cloud One with services designed for applications, network, workloads, file storage, containers, open source and cloud security posture management across cloud and datacenter environments. This empowers consumers to confidently invest and grow their cloud adoption without sacrificing their security. 

Access a full copy of the Forrester study commissioned by Trend Micro, New Technology: The Projected Total Economic Impact™ Of Trend Micro Cloud One™ Security Services Platform here: https://resources.trendmicro.com/AMEA-TEI-Cloud-One-Study.html

Research Methodology 

Forrester aggregated the experiences of 97 interviewed and surveyed current customers of Trend Micro Cloud One and combined the results into a single composite organization for the purpose of this study. A three-year projected financial analysis was calculated for this global, business-to-consumer composite organization, which generates $2.4 billion in revenues annually, employs 5,000 people and is undergoing a three-year digital transformation program. 

About Trend Micro 

Trend Micro, a global cybersecurity leader, helps make the world safe for exchanging digital information. Fueled by decades of security expertise, global threat research, and continuous innovation, Trend Micro's cybersecurity platform protects hundreds of thousands of organizations and millions of individuals across clouds, networks, devices, and endpoints. As a leader in cloud and enterprise cybersecurity, the platform delivers a powerful range of advanced threat defense techniques optimized for environments like AWS, Microsoft, and Google, and central visibility for better, faster detection and response. With 7,000 employees across 65 countries, Trend Micro enables organizations to simplify and secure their connected world. www.TrendMicro.com.