Samsung Announces Its Grand Republic Day Sale With Mega Offers On Samsung.com, Samsung Shop App And Samsung Exclusive Stores

Highlights

Up to 57% off on select Galaxy smartphones and up to 48% off on select models of Samsung premium and lifestyle TVs

Samsung Galaxy Tablets, Accessories and Wearables will be available at up to 50% off

Up to 52% off on select models of refrigerators with exchange benefits of up to INR 15125

Up to 22.5% cashback with leading cards (Up to INR 25000)

Bengaluru, January 20, 2024: Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, has launched its Grand Republic Sale with bumper offers and cashback on a variety of Samsung products such as Galaxy smartphones, laptops, tablets, wearables, Samsung TVs, and other digital appliances. These offers will be available on Samsung.com, Samsung Shop App, and Samsung Exclusive Stores. Consumers will get up to 22.5% cashback (Up to INR 25000) on HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank and other leading Bank Debit and Credit Cards.

During the bonanza sale, consumers buying select models of Galaxy A series, M series, F series, S series and flagship models of Galaxy Z Series can get up to 57% off. Consumers will also get amazing offers on pre-booking the latest Galaxy S24 series smartphones. Under the Grand Republic Day Sale, consumers can avail Galaxy S23 for just INR 54999. Those purchasing Galaxy laptops such as Galaxy Book Go, Galaxy Book3, and Galaxy Book 3 Pro, can avail up to 46% off and consumers buying select models of Galaxy tablets, wearables and accessories can get up to 50% off.

Consumers purchasing premium and lifestyle models of Samsung televisions can avail up to 48% off with an additional exchange benefit of up to INR 15250. Consumers buying select models of Neo QLED and QLED will also get an assured special gift from either of the following - Galaxy S23 Ultra worth INR 124990 or a 50" Serif TV worth INR 69990, or a Soundbar worth INR 38990 (Q700C / C450).

During the sale, consumers buying Samsung digital appliances such as refrigerators will get up to 52% off, on select models of refrigerators. Consumers can also get exchange benefits up to INR 15125 on select models.

On purchase of microwaves such as 28 litre SlimFry Microwave and 32 litre Wi-Fi enabled Bespoke Microwave, consumers can avail up to 45% off. Consumers purchasing select models of EcobubbleTM range of fully automatic washing machines will get up to 49% off with an extra benefit of INR 3000 as an upgrade bonus.

ELGi Harnesses 63 Years Of Compressed Air Excellence To Fly The Indian Flag High Ahead Of 75th Republic Day

* Technology innovation and a spirit of resilience converge to ensure the Indian national flag flies majestically in low-wind conditions.

Elgi Equipments (BSE: 522074 NSE: ELGIEQUIP), one of the world’s leading air compressor manufacturers, has successfully developed a technology solution capable of delivering air at adequate volume and pressure to sustain the flying of a flag during periods of low wind speed.

When a national flag flies, it evokes a lot of emotion. However, sometimes, when the wind is less, flags droop. "Project Tiranga" at ELGi, conceptualized to ensure that the national flag flew high, was initiated with an enterprise-wide innovation challenge that yielded promising concepts, each leveraging ELGi’s expertise in compressed air technology. A team of ELGians from operations and technology demonstrated unwavering dedication to the mission, and a breakthrough solution finally emerged after rigorous testing and validation, reflecting the resilience and expertise ingrained in ELGi's ethos. The solution comprised a mechanical system that lifted the flag using blowers, a swivel mechanism to align the fan modules with the wind's direction and speed, and a designed rope guide system that allowed the flag to be raised and lowered smoothly through the modules. Integrating the above concepts—lifting fans, the swivel mechanism, and the flag-raising and lowering systems—into a custom-made flag mast measuring 110 feet enabled the flag to fly majestically despite periods of low wind speed. Today, the module stands ready to showcase the grandeur of any flag in the absence of natural wind at the ELGi Air Center Plant in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

Dr. Jairam Varadaraj, Managing Director, Elgi Equipments Limited, commented, "ELGi remains committed to finding innovative solutions to complex challenges. Technology is the cornerstone for our engineering products as we strive towards consistently delivering customer satisfaction through multiple initiatives that help us define ourselves as disruptors and not followers of global industry standards. Project Tiranga was no easy task, and there were several hindrances along the way. Nevertheless, in line with our culture of innovation and long-term thinking, we collaboratively drew on our knowledge and experience in compressed air systems to go above and beyond and contribute to a matter of national pride."

For over 60 years, ELGi's pioneering products and compressed air solutions have served various applications across industries ranging from manufacturing to food and beverage, construction, pharmaceuticals, and textiles in over 120 countries. Powering a 400+ product-strong portfolio, ELGi's state-of-the-art global manufacturing facilities, spanning three continents, are committed to carbon neutrality, water conservation, and circular waste management.

Eminent Personalities Win Awards By Academy of General Education, MEMG, Manipal Media Network And Dr. TMA Pai Foundation

Academy of General Education, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, MEMG, Manipal Media Network Ltd and Dr. TMA Pai Foundation, Manipal conducted “New Year Awards 2024” to honour eminent personalities of Udupi & Dakshin Kannada districts for their immense contributions to society, art and culture. The awards were conferred to five achievers who have contributed in their own ways in culture, literature and have even created awareness in this unprecedented situation.  The welcome address was made by Dr H S Ballal - Pro Chancellor & President, Academy of General Education, MAHE and the felicitation address was given by Lt Gen (Dr.) M D Venkatesh - Vice Chancellor, MAHE.

The winners of this year were: Dr M Narendra, an esteemed Senior Professional and Retired Chairman and Managing Director of Indian Overseas Bank; Dr Jaimala Ramachandra, Cine Artist and Producer; Dr H Manjunatha Hande, Professor, HOD and Unit Head in the Department of Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal; Dr Yadkathody Sanjeeva Rai, former Dean of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, and a distinguished Cosmetic Surgeon at Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore and Sri. B. K. Deva Rao Agriculturist.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr H S Ballal - Pro Chancellor, MAHE said, “Being the hosts of this wonderful celebration of the contributions and outstanding accomplishments of the five recipients is an honour for us. I congratulate each one of them from the bottom of my heart for their spirit. The educational system in place now looks for fresh perspectives and investigations. The liberal arts and humanities ought to be given more importance. we are thrilled to acknowledge their hard work and accomplishments in their respective fields which has added significant impact towards the betterment of the society.

Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE sharing his excitement said, “We are exuberant to felicitate the outstanding achievements of the new year awardees, and this is undoubtedly a terrific occasion for us. We value their unparalleled contributions to literature, agriculture, medicine, culture, and mankind. They have gone above and beyond the call of duty to establish an example for others to follow and instil virtues in the community. The most effective way to address societal issues or raise awareness is through these literary and artistic disciplines. Honouring the achievers serves a dual purpose: it not only shows appreciation and recognition for their hard work, but it also serves as a springboard for young people to aim higher”.

Humbled by the award, Dr M. Narendra conveyed, “With deep appreciation I extend my sincere gratitude to the community for choosing me. This serves as not just a personal achievement but a celebration of the vital role of banking in shaping our economic landscape. From early on, I have been committed to contribute to the welfare of society through the financial sector by fostering economic growth, and financial inclusion.  In a world where economic well-being is integral to the fabric of society, this award reinforces my determination to contribute to building a more inclusive and thriving society through responsible and impactful financial practices. Thank you for acknowledging my efforts and encouraging me to make a lasting positive difference”.

Expressing his happiness after receiving the award, Dr Yadkathody Sanjeeva Rai, said, “I’m grateful for this award for recognizing the path I have chosen in medicine and surgery. Receiving this award not only celebrates my individual achievements but underscores the collective effort of all those who have been integral to my professional journey especially during the establishment of Manipal College of Medical Sciences in Pokhara, Nepal. It highlights the significance of collaboration in the global healthcare landscape, and I am inspired to continue fostering partnerships that transcend borders for the betterment of medical education and healthcare.

Conveying her joy, Dr Jaimala Ramachandra said, “In this moment of reflection and gratitude, I am truly touched by the recognition given to me by the New Year Awards Committee. This recognition holds a special place in my heart, acknowledging not just my contributions to the film industry but also my commitment to public service, literature and social wellbeing.  Movies are a powerful storytelling form which can showcase the reality of society in an open forum. I see this award that reaffirms the belief in the transformative impact of cinema to connect, inspire and bring about positive change. I am deeply thankful for the encouragement to persist in my endeavours.”

Honoured by the recognition, Dr H Manjunatha Hande, “I extend my heartfelt appreciation for recognizing my journey dedicated to medical education and research. It serves as a powerful acknowledgement of the importance of medicine in shaping a healthier and brighter future for our communities.”

Overcome with joy, Sri. B. K. Deva Rao Agriculturist, “With sincere gratitude, I am humbled with the recognition given to me through the award. This acknowledgement reflects the tireless efforts of every farmer into cultivating our lands. I thank the community for considering me and celebrating the vital role of agriculture in our community.”

The event was aptly concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr Raviraj N S, Director, Planning & Monitoring, acknowledging the enthusiastic participation and support of the entire community.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Standalone PAT For 9MFY24 Rs 9,648 Crore, Up 30% YoY

* Q3FY24 Rs 3,005 Crore, Up 8% YoY

* Consolidated PAT for 9MFY24 Rs 12,876 crore, up 24% YoY

* Q3FY24 Rs 4,265 crore, up 7% YoY

The Board of Directors of Kotak Mahindra Bank (“the Bank”) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated results for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2023, at the Board meeting held in Mumbai, today.

Kotak Mahindra Bank standalone results

The Bank’s PAT for 9MFY24 increased to Rs 9,648 crore from Rs 7,444 crore in 9MFY23, up 30% YoY. PAT for Q3FY24 stood at Rs 3,005 crore, up 8% YoY from Rs 2,792 crore in Q3FY23.  Q3FY24 results for the Bank include Rs143 cr provision (post tax) on applicable Alternate Investment Fund (AIF) investments pursuant to RBI’s circular dated December 19, 2023.

Net Interest Income (NII) for 9MFY24 increased to Rs 19,084 crore, from Rs 15,449 crore in 9MFY23, up 24% YoY and for Q3FY24 increased to Rs 6,554 crore, from Rs 5,653 crore in Q3FY23, up 16% YoY. Net Interest Margin (NIM) was 5.22% for Q3FY24.

Fees and services for 9MFY24 increased to Rs 5,998 crore from Rs 4,861 crore in 9MFY23, up 23% YoY and for Q3FY24 increased to Rs 2,144 crore from Rs 1,695 crore in Q3FY23, up 26% YoY.

Operating profit for 9MFY24 increased to Rs 14,126 crore from Rs 10,201 crore, up 38% YoY and for Q3FY24 was Rs 4,566 crore, up 19% YoY (Q3FY23: Rs 3,850 crore).

Customers as at December 31, 2023 were 4.8 cr (3.9 cr as at December 31, 2022).

Advances (incl. IBPC & BRDS) increased 19% YoY to Rs 3,72,464 crore as at December 31, 2023 from

Rs 3,13,154 crore as at December 31, 2022. Customer Assets, which comprises Advances (incl. IBPC & BRDS) and Credit Substitutes, increased by 17% YoY to Rs 4,00,759 crore as at December 31, 2023 from RS 3,41,733 crore as at December 31, 2022.

Unsecured retail advances (incl. Retail Micro Finance) as a % of net advances stood at 11.6% as at December 31, 2023. (9.3% as at December 31, 2022).

CASA ratio as at December 31, 2023 stood at 47.7%.

Average Current deposits grew to RS 59,337 crore for Q3FY24 compared to RS 56,372 crore for Q3FY23 up 5% YoY. Average Savings deposits grew to RS 1,23,227 crore for Q3FY24 compared to ? 1,18,442 crore for Q3FY23 up 4% YoY . Average Term deposit up 43% YoY from RS 1,51,470 crore for Q3FY23 to RS 2,16,344 crore for Q3FY24.

ActivMoney was launched in Q1FY24 and TD sweep balance grew 13% QoQ (non-annualised) to RS 41,784 crore.

As at December 31, 2023, GNPA was 1.73% & NNPA was 0.34% (GNPA was 1.90% & NNPA was 0.43% at December 31, 2022). The provision coverage ratio stood at 80.6%.

Capital Adequacy Ratio of the Bank, as per Basel III, as at December 31, 2023 was 21.2% and CET I ratio of 20.1% (both including unaudited profits).

Consolidated results at a glance

Consolidated PAT for 9MFY24 increased to RS12,876 crore from RS 10,359 crore in 9MFY23, up 24% YoY and for Q3FY24 was Rs 4,265 crore, up 7% YoY from Rs 3,995 crore in Q3FY23. Rs 12,876 crore from Rs10,359 crore in 9MFY23, up 24% YoY and for Q3FY24 was Rs 4,265 crore, up 7% YoY from Rs 3,995 crore in Q3FY23.

*Q3FY24 results for the Bank include Rs143 cr provision (post tax) on applicable Alternate Investment Fund (AIF) investments pursuant to RBI’s circular dated December 19, 2023.

At the consolidated level, the Return on Assets (ROA) for Q3FY24 (annualized) was 2.46% (2.76% for Q3FY23). Return on Equity (ROE) for Q3FY24 (annualized) was 13.83% (15.04% for Q3FY23).

Consolidated Capital Adequacy Ratio as per Basel III as at December 31, 2023 was 22.2% and CET I ratio was 21.2% (both including unaudited profits).

Consolidated Capital and Reserves & Surplus as at December 31, 2023 was Rs 1,25,039 crore (Rs 1,07,670 crore as at December 31, 2022). The Book Value per Share was Rs 627.

Consolidated Customer Assets which comprises Advances (incl. IBPC & BRDS) and Credit Substitutes grew by 19% YoY from Rs 3,79,820 crore as at December 31, 2022 to Rs 4,51,524 crore as at December 31, 2023.

Total assets managed / advised by the Group as at December 31, 2023 were Rs 5,33,365 crore up 32% YoY over Rs 4,05,269 crore as at December 31, 2022. The Domestic MF Equity AUM increased by 44% YoY to Rs 2,29,168 crore as at December 31, 2023.

The financial statements of Indian subsidiaries (excluding insurance companies) and associates are prepared as per Indian Accounting Standards in accordance with the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015. The financial statements of subsidiaries located outside India are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in their respective countries. However, for the purpose of preparation of the consolidated financial results, the results of subsidiaries and associates are in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in India (‘GAAP’) specified under Section 133 and relevant provision of Companies Act, 2013.

About Kotak Mahindra Group

Established in 1985, Kotak Mahindra Group is one of India's leading financial services conglomerates. In February 2003, Kotak Mahindra Finance Ltd. (KMFL), the Group's flagship company, received banking license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), becoming the first non-banking finance company in India to convert into a bank - Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd (KMBL).

Kotak Mahindra Group (Group) offers a wide range of financial services that encompass every sphere of life. From commercial banking, to stock broking, mutual funds, life and general insurance and investment banking, the Group caters to the diverse financial needs of individuals and the corporate sector. The premise of Kotak Mahindra Group’s business model is concentrated India, diversified financial services. The bold vision that underscores the Group’s growth is an inclusive one, with a host of products and services designed to address the needs of the unbanked and insufficiently banked.

Kotak Mahindra Group has a global presence through its subsidiaries in UK, USA, Gulf Region, Singapore and Mauritius with offices in London, New York, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore and Mauritius respectively. As on 31st December, 2023, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has a national footprint of 1,869 branches and 3,239 ATMs, and branches in GIFT City and DIFC (Dubai).

For more information, please visit the Company’s website at https://www.kotak.com

CEAT Launches Steel Rad Tyres For High Powered Motorcycles In Two Variants - SPORTRAD And CROSSRAD

·         New Steel Radial Motorcycle tyres will offer new levels of handling and grip on all terrains

·         Signs up Geoffrey Emmanuel as its first brand ambassador in racing as CEAT forays into the world of motorsports

CEAT, a leading tyre manufacturer, has taken the performance of its two-wheeler tyre range to a higher level with a new range of steel radial tyres, SPORTRAD and CROSSRAD. This premium range of steel radial tyres is specially crafted to unleash the full potential of high performance motorcycles. The SPORTRAD series is designed for high speed and cornering; while the CROSSRAD is a multi terrain high grip tyre.Steel Rad tyres feature a steel-belted radial construction, providing superior handling at high speeds.

The CROSSRAD series is compatible with motorcycles such as Yamaha FZ Series and Suzuki Gixxer Series and priced at INR: 4,300 for the set of tyres.

The SPORTRAD series is compatible with High performance motorcycles such as KTM RC390, Duke 390 Bajaj Dominar 400, TVS Apache RR310 and is priced at INR: 12,500 for the set of tyres.

The SPORTRAD platform is equipped with equidistant midcrown grooves for enhanced cornering stability, and a silica-blended tread compound for a perfect balance of stiffness. These tyres deliver a sporty performance that exceeds expectations. Incorporating advanced features like slick shoulders for extreme lean angles, an optimized groove design for superior wet grip and cornering stability, and a maximized slick area at the crown for stability at speeds up to 270 kmph, the SPORTRAD series ensures an unparalleled riding experience.

The CROSSRAD platform features an asymmetrical block tread design and transversal grooves placed along the circumference of the tyre which combine to provide superior grip in gravel/mud and other off-road terrains. Additionally, the interconnected shoulder blocks offer a wider contact area for an enhanced cornering grip. With the uniquely shaped centre blocks and a steel-belted radial construction, the CROSSRAD series offers a much superior handling experience for offroad enthusiasts.

Mr. Arnab Banerjee, MD & CEO, CEAT, commented, “Steel Rad series is a testament to CEAT's commitment to innovation and quality. With the Steel Rad series, we are introducing a new era of motorcycle tyres that combine cutting-edge technology with a passion for performance. We understand the unique needs of riders with high-performance bikes, and these tyres are designed to meet and exceed their expectations. From extreme lean angles to high-speed stability, every aspect has been meticulously crafted to enhance the riding experience."

Mr. Lakshmi Narayanan B., Chief Marketing Officer, CEAT, said, "At CEAT, we understand the passion for precision performance. This is our answer to riders who demand the best from their machines. These tyres are about delivering tangible results on the road. The steel radial construction offers rock-solid stability and responsive handling. Whether it’s for track days, weekend getaways, or your daily commute, these tyres ensure performance and unparalleled reliability on the road."

CEAT Steel Rad tyres are meticulously designed for the performance segment of motorcycles. The road-biased SPORTRAD platform, with an 80:20 on-off road bias, will be initially launched in two sizes: 110/70ZR17 and 150/60ZR17. The CROSSRAD platform, with a 60/40 ON-OFF split, currently offers one size - 140/60R17.

CEAT invites riders, enthusiasts, and industry professionals to explore the Steel Rad series, now available at authorized CEAT dealerships across India.

Brand Ambassador Announcement:

In a monumental move into the world of motorsports, CEAT proudly announces Geoffrey Emmanuel as its first brand ambassador in racing. Geoffrey, the first Indian rider to compete in the FIM Junior World Championship riding in MOTO3, is working towards participating in the MotoGP World Championship starting from India MotoGP Bharat in September 2024. His journey signifies CEAT's commitment to supporting and endorsing exceptional talent in the world of motorcycle racing.

About CEAT Ltd (www.ceat.com):

CEAT, the flagship company of RPG Enterprises, was established in 1958. Today, CEAT is one of India’s leading tyre manufacturers and has a strong presence in global markets. CEAT produces more than 41 million high-performance tyres, catering to various segments like 2-3 Wheelers, Passenger and Utility Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles and Off-Highway Vehicles.

About RPG Group (www.rpggroup.com):

RPG Group, established in 1979, is one of India’s fastest-growing business groups with a turnover of US$ 4.4 Billion. The group has diverse business interests in the areas of Infrastructure, Tyres, Pharma, IT and Specialty as well as in emerging innovation-led technology businesses.

Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL) Rolls Out India’s First Indigenously Developed Hepatitis A Vaccine “Havisure®”

* India Achieves Self-Sufficiency For Hepatitis A Vaccine, True Example Of Atma Nirbhar Bharat

Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL) a wholly owned subsidiary of National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) and a leading biopharmaceutical company in India marks a historic moment in public health with the launch of India’s first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine “Havisure®”. The vaccine represents a significant step forward in India's fight against Hepatitis A and is poised to make a substantial contribution to public health. 

The new vaccine, Havisure®is the result of extensive research and development efforts by IIL's dedicated team of scientists and researchers. This indigenously developed vaccine is poised to play a crucial role in preventing Hepatitis A, a highly contagious liver infection that poses a significant public health challenge. Hepatitis A is a viral infection primarily spread through the fecal-oral route, meaning that it is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. 

This Novel Vaccine launch event was held today at Hyatt Place, Hyderabad. Chief guests were Shri Nagaraj Karpan, MLA and Shri Ajay Mishra, IAS-Chairman Indian Redcross Society, Telangana. 

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. K Anand Kumar, Managing Director, Indian Immunologicals Ltd shared "The launch of Havisure® is a testament to our commitment to advancing healthcare solutions for the nation. Currently Hepatitis A vaccines are imported into our country and as a true meaning of Atma Nirbhar Bharat, IIL has tirelessly put in efforts and developed India’s 1st vaccine for Hepatitis A. The vaccine Havisure® has undergone extensive clinical trials in 8 centers and has proven to be safe and efficacious. The vaccine is comparable to the world’s leading vaccine sold by a multinational. With Havisure®, we aim to contribute significantly to the prevention of this infectious disease. IIL launching three vaccines in a single year is itself a big achievement and full credit to my team.” 

“Havisure” is set to play a crucial role to protect against the Hepatitis A virus, which primarily affects the liver. The vaccine is effective in preventing the disease and is recommended for children in the routine immunization. It is a two-dose vaccine wherein the first dose is administered at above 12 months of age and the second dose is given at least after 6 months of the first dose. The vaccine is also recommended for individuals who are at risk of exposure or travel to the regions with high hepatitis A prevalence. In addition to this people with occupational risk of infection and suffering from chronic liver diseases also need Hepatitis A vaccination. 

Discussing on manufacturing capabilities of IIL, Dr. Priyabrata Pattnaik, Dy. Managing Director-IIL said, “The company has considerably invested in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities to scale up production and meet the growing demand for Hepatitis A vaccine. As part of the launch, IIL will be collaborating with healthcare professionals, corporate hospitals, and government agencies to promote awareness about Hepatitis A and the importance of both paediatric, adolescent & adult vaccination”. 

About Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL): 

Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), a wholly owned subsidiary of National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) is the market leader in veterinary and human biologicals in India. It manufactures over 150+ products. For more information on IIL, visit www.indimmune.com. 

Close To 1400 School Athletes Competed In Multi-Sports On Day 4 Of The SFA Championships In Bengaluru

 ·         Athletes competed in six sports - Badminton, Skating, Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis, and Football - all in one day

·         Badminton and skating witnessed highest athlete participation, with close to 300 matches on the badminton courts, and close to 30 races in the skating rink

An action packed Day 4 of the SFA Championships in Bengaluru unfolded with multiple sports, showcasing a combination of grit, determination and commitment by athletes, across the city. The Padukone Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence (PDCSE) took center stage, with the commencement of Badminton, Volleyball and Basketball matches, while the Force 1 Skating Rink witnessed the thrilling kickoff of skating competitions.

On the commencement of Badminton at the Championships, Prakash Padukone, Founder, Padukone Sports Management shared, "All that we need to do is give a child a ground to play, and then see their passion for sports soar higher. Enabling a sporting platform for school athletes to compete in diverse sports, SFA Championships is a great step in discovering future potential. During our times, we could only watch other players and learn to get better. With the SFA Championships, emerging athletes can now get an early exposure to coaches, professional stadiums and plan their careers in sports. At the Padukone Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence (PDCSE), we are glad to be supporting this grassroots movement shaping the country's  landscape in sports".   

Basketball finals of U-11 girls and boys brought the courts to life with spirited competition. The U-11 Basketball final witnessed an impressive victory by Vidyashilpa, who dominated the court against Greenwoods, with a remarkable score of 14-0. Volleyball semi-finals in the U-16 and U-18 boys categories kept spectators on the edge of their seats with intensive sporting battles. At the skating rink, competitions kicked off from U-7 to U-17 categories, with participants gliding with impressive manoeuvres in pursuit of victory.

Filled with pride, Chirag S. Gowda's father, witnessing his son's success in skating, shared, “We're extremely happy that Chirag won a silver medal in the U-7 category for 200m quads and a gold medal in the 400m quads (U-7 category). His mother, who is a national-level netball player, is his inspiration in sports. This was our first experience at the SFA Championships, and the well organised structure and support made it a seamless and an enjoyable experience. I believe that such platforms play a crucial role in motivating children to move forward in sports.”

Football action continued, featuring knockout rounds for U-14 Boys and quarter finals for U-16 Boys. Simultaneously, the Tennis quarter finals were held for boys in the category from U-10 to U-16, along with the U-14 Boys (Doubles) final, adding intensity to the atmosphere.

Demonstrating the power of sport in transforming the society, Day 5 will celebrate female athletes participating at the SFA Championships in Bengaluru, as part of the 'She is Gold' initiative. Day 5 also promises to surge in excitement as Football (U14, U16 & U18), Tennis, Badminton, Volleyball, and Basketball gear up to captivate audiences with intense competitions.

The daily schedule, detailed results of each sport's competition, will be available on – www.sfaplay.com. For real-time updates, highlights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes moments, follow our social media channels – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

SFA Championships is poised to make sports accessible for school athletes across the country, thereby empowering today’s talent to become the Champions of tomorrow. The journey to represent the country at the Olympics, is what SFA Championships is enabling for emerging athletes. 

About Sports For All (SFA)

Sports For All (SFA)?is India's?largest tech-enabled multi-sport grassroots competition platform. The vision is to make youth fall in love with sports through inspiring and joyful sporting experiences.?Founders?Rishikesh Joshi and Vishwas Choksi,?since the inception of SFA in 2015, have determinedly focused on transforming and mobilizing school sporting championships in the country, by providing an inclusive, diverse, safe, and best-in-class platform for the youth to realize their fullest potential through sports.

SFA Championships, SFA’s flagship IP, brings forth the potential of large-scale multi-sporting competitions propelled by tech and data analytics. Being?phygital?in nature, the SFA Championships have today become the backbone of identifying sporting potential at the grassroots level. In 2023, SFA has pledged to encourage 2 lakh athletes to participate at 9 SFA Championships, across the cities of Indore, Dehradun, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Pune, Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi and Ahmedabad, to determine the “number one school in sports”, in each city.

With a technology-led approach at its core, SFA enables the entire grassroots sport ecosystem via SFAPLAY.COM, a platform designed to empower and connect all stakeholders via statistics, data, analytics, match videos, content, performance management, and competition management systems.

SFA is the leading sports entrepreneurial venture empaneled with the Sports Authority of India (SAI). We have been the “official partner” of the Indian Olympic Association, enabling support for Indian contingent to the Tokyo Olympics, 2020; Birmingham Commonwealth Games, 2022; Asian Games, 2022. SFA has been an integral team at the 36th National Games, Gujarat, 2022, the 37th National Games, Goa, 2023 and editions of Khelo India Youth Games in Haryana, Pune and Guwahati. In the year 2023, SFA signed on as the “powered by” sponsors for the Khelo India Youth Games, for the next five years.

Stay tuned as we transform the school sporting ecosystem?www.sfaplay.com

The 10’000th Made-in-India Volvo Car Rolls Out At Its Bangalore Facility

Volvo Car India has reached the milestone of having produced ten thousand cars in India at its Bangalore facility. It was in 2017 that the company commenced assembly operations with the ever-popular XC90 being the first car to be assembled and rolled out. Till date the highest production has been of the XC60 with 4000+ numbers. The honour of being the ten thousandth car goes to the company’s first Pure electric offering the “XC40 recharge”.

“It is indeed a matter of pride for the company to have reached this milestone in short span of time in spite of nearly three years of pandemic disruptions. The steady increase of capacities at Bangalore reflects our commitment to India’s luxury mobility segment. The honour of being the ten thousandth car goes to our first Pure electric offering, XC40 Recharge which continues to showcase consumer confidence. I am beholden to Volvo Car India’s entire ecosystem that has made this milestone possible” said Mr. Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India

“Rolling out the ten thousandth car is indeed a major milestone for our plant. Since 2017 we have been increasing our capacities to meet customer demand and have also continuously undertaken skill upgradation leading to the successful assembly of EVs. Our plant also holds the proud distinction of having rolled out India’s first domestically assembled EV our XC40 Recharge” said Mr. Gao Feng, Production Head, Volvo Car India

The manufacturing facility in Hoskote near Bengaluru commenced assembly of Volvo cars in 2017. The company today locally assembles all its models in India namely XC90, XC60, S90, XC40 Recharge and the recently launched C40 Recharge.

Volvo Cars in India

Swedish luxury car Company Volvo established its presence in India in 2007 and has since then, worked intensively to market the Swedish brand in the country. Volvo Cars currently markets products through 25 dealerships in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Coimbatore, Delhi NCR – South Delhi, West Delhi, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Indore, Raipur, Jaipur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Kolkata, Lucknow, Ludhiana, West Mumbai, South Mumbai, Pune, Raipur, Surat, Vishakhapatnam and Vijayawada.

Teeing Up Excitement: BMW Golf Cup 2024 Held In Bengaluru

* The largest international tournament series for amateur golfers

* 15 Golf tournaments in 9 cities at the finest golf courses across India

* #BMWGolfCup2024 #DrivenByPassion #BMWGolfSport #BMWIndia #SheerDrivingPleasure

BMW India held the India edition of the largest amateur golf tournament – The BMW Golf Cup 2024 in Bengaluru. The much-awaited golf tournament will be held at spectacular golf courses across Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Noida, Kolkata and Gurgaon. The winners of the regional tournaments will compete at the national finals which will be held later in 2024.

BMW Golf Cup, one of the world’s largest amateur golf tournament series can trace its roots back a quarter of a century to a British-based initiative that ran on its own for five years before going international. The tournament started as the BMW Invitation Tournament in UK. It has now developed into a global series with 1,000 qualifying tournaments involving 100,000 players in up to 50 countries. The best players from each nation qualify for the highlight, the BMW Golf Cup World Final.

An exclusive, invitation-only event, the BMW Golf Cup 2024 is open to golfers who are members of recognised golf clubs in country. The tournaments are held in accordance with the rules of the respective local golf club. It is also a loyalty program that rewards BMW customers with a chance to qualify for one of the largest amateur golf tournaments in the world. BMW India dealers identify amateur golfers amongst BMW owners who would be interested in participating in the tournament.

India is one of 50 participating countries at the World Final of BMW Golf Cup 2024 which is a global series with 1,000 qualifying tournaments involving 100,000 players. The BMW Golf Cup is an amateur golf tournament series designed for customers, prospects and opinion leaders and provides the right mix for an exclusive social interaction.

The BMW Golf Cup has three categories, A (for handicaps up to 12), B (for handicaps 13 – 28) and Ladies Category (for handicaps up to 28). The winners, runners-up and second runners-up of the individual handicap categories qualify for the National Final. The winners in each of the three handicap categories in the National Final qualify to take part in the World Final of BMW Golf Cup.

Centricity Expands Its Footprint Into The South Market With A New Office In Bengaluru

* Since started operations in April 2023, Bengaluru will be the 6th office alongside Gurugram, Mumbai, Agra, Lucknow and Kanpur offices

Centricity, a Gurugram-based wealthtech startup, proudly announces the grand inauguration of its new office in Bengaluru, expanding its footprint into the south market. Strategically located on the bustling Church Street, it will cater to a diverse set of requirements in wealth management and financial product distribution across the region. Centricity has started hiring select talent across a range of capabilities and is welcoming new hires in Bengaluru.  Since Centricity started operations in April 2023, it has created a vast network of more than 1600 financial product distributors across 12 states and 15 cities, onboarding over 2000 clients.

Highlighting the strategic significance of the Bengaluru office, Anirudh Mahanot, Founding Team Member and Business Head (South & West India) at Centricity, expressed, "Bengaluru is a pivotal market for us, and this new office represents our commitment to innovation. With this new office we are aiming to reach more people and bridge the gap among Investors, Wealth Managers & Asset Managers. Our tie-up with IIT Madras research park is working on specialized modules to integrate elements of AI and ML to make this platform efficient.”

Founding Partners, Manu Awasthy (CEO) and Gaurav Tiwari, along with senior team members Vinayak Magotra, Arpita Hegde and Abhay Mishra, and Centricity team graced the event. The Bengaluru office will be led by Anirudh Mahanot and his dedicated team, including Attaur Khan (Branch Manager, Bangalore) and Shankar PA (Branch Manager, Bangalore).

Centricity’s “OneDigital” is India’s first tech-enabled multi-asset class, multi-product platform that enables MFDs to access a comprehensive digital financial product listing, execute transactions digitally and deliver multi-product and multi-advisor client portfolio reports seamlessly. It also equips MFDs with tools such as goal planning, a learning & development library, portfolio analytics and more.

Centricity's second platform, "INVICTUS," caters to single-family offices, UHNI, and corporate treasuries with portfolios exceeding 100cr. INVICTUS serves as an insight’s engine, simplifying investment management processes and offering holistic reporting, investment reckoner, portfolio scanner, liquidity profile, and performance tracking.

Having also achieved ISO27001:2022 and RIA licence, Centricity has ambitious plans for the upcoming year, including expanding business development teams, adding tech talent, achieving ESG compliance. Initiatives such as setting up a support call centre, applying for broking licenses, conducting many more distributor partner roadshows, and offering mortgages for distributors are also in the pipeline.

Indian Tech Firm Data Xgen Technologies Launches New Email Service-Jaishriram.bharat- In Support of Ram Mandir Reconstruction

Indian company Data Xgen Technologies today announced its contribution to the reconstruction of the Ram Mandir by launching a new email service, specially dedicated to the celebration of the consecration of Lord Ram. The service has initially been launched in Hindi, with the launch event coinciding with the much-anticipated consecration ceremony scheduled for January 22. 

Data Xgen Technologies has introduced a free email service under the domain name jaishriram.bharat. To avail of this service, individuals can download the DataMail (DATAMAIL) mobile app from the Android and Apple App Stores and enjoy its benefits free of charge. The service is accessible on any device through mobile email applications and the web.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the initiative that is a fusion of technology and spirituality, Mr. Ajay Data, Founder and CEO of Data Xgen, said, “The reconstruction of the Ram Mandir is a significant milestone, and we are proud to contribute to this new chapter. Data Xgen's goal has always been to work for the benefit of society through technological advancements, and with this email service, we aim to provide people with a secure, safe, and easy way to enjoy the benefits of email and align it with spirituality too."

"As 88% of citizens in India primarily communicate in local languages, it is crucial for our email service to be available in their language. Hindi being a major language, we have initially launched jaishriram.bharat in Hindi, and soon it will be available in other languages as well," emphasized Mr. Ajay Data.

Data Xgen Technologies is the first company globally to provide a fully Indian-manufactured email service. It supports email IDs in 22 Indian languages including Hindi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, among others, and foreign languages as well, making it the world's first linguistic email service.

Data Xgen Enterprise Email Software, XgenPlus, which powers this email service, is already serving over 50 million users worldwide. Any individual with a domain in any language can also benefit from Xgen Plus for email. It is a robust communication solution that provides email, transaction-related emails, and group emails, all in one place—fast, secure, and reliable.

Mahindra Introduces Supro Profit Truck Excel: Elevating Customer Prosperity With Enhanced Features. Price Starts At Rs 6.61 Lakh

* In line with brand promise, the Supro Profit Truck Excel aims to deliver superior power, class-leading mileage and bigger deck length leading to superior profits for customers ~

•              Offers best-in-class rated payload of 900 kg (Diesel) and 750 kg (CNG Duo)

•              Increased deck length of 2515 mm

•              Impressive range of over 500 km for Supro Excel CNG Duo

•              Enhanced safety feature with Anti-Roll Bar which provides stability

•              The Supro Profit Truck Excel series offers competitive pricing, with the Diesel variant priced at ?6.61 lakh (ex-showroom Bangalore) and the CNG DUO variant at Rs 6.93 lakh (ex-showroom Bangalore).

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), the market leader in Small Commercial Vehicles (SCVs) in India, proudly announces the launch of the new Supro Profit Truck Excel series, available in both Diesel and CNG Duo variants. Building on the success of the Supro platform, the Profit Truck Excel series has been designed to redefine last-mile connectivity with its superior power, exceptional style, unparalleled safety and unsurpassed comfort.

The Supro, initially launched in 2015, has emerged as a versatile platform catering to the evolving needs of customers. The Supro Profit Truck Excel series offers competitive pricing, with the Diesel variant priced at Rs 6.61 lakh (ex-showroom Bangalore) and the CNG DUO variant at Rs 6.93 lakh (ex-showroom Bangalore). Following the success of the Supro CNG Duo, which has contributed to a six-fold increase in the brand's volume, the new Supro Profit Truck Excel reinforces Mahindra's commitment to offering versatile platforms with multiple engine and fuel options, modern style, advanced safety and technology features.

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO - Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said, “Mahindra's 'Rise for Value,' a pillar of our RISE philosophy, is embodied in our latest offering - the Mahindra Supro Profit Truck Excel. This launch marks a significant stride in the sub-2-tonne segment, showcasing our commitment to empowering businesses and transforming last-mile connectivity in India. The Supro Profit Truck Excel, with its exceptional 500 km range CNG Duo variant, blends power, economy, safety, and comfort, reinforcing our mission to deliver comprehensive, value-driven solutions in logistics and transportation."

R. Velusamy, President, Automotive Technology and Product Development, M&M said, "The Supro Profit Truck Excel, emerging from our renowned Supro platform, exemplifies Mahindra's unwavering commitment to technological excellence. It boasts an advanced 5-speed transmission for improved performance, reinforced chassis with increased thickness and 19% more stiffness for enhanced stability, and an anti-roll bar, setting new standards in safety. These elements are meticulously integrated to not only deliver superior performance and efficiency but also to set a new benchmark in payload capacity. This vehicle stands as a testament to our promise of providing efficient, robust, and value-driven solutions, reshaping the less than 2-tonne segment and positively impacting our customers and communities.”

The Supro Profit Truck Excel stands out with its key features, emphasizing mileage, toughness, ruggedness, and the ability to handle versatile loads efficiently. It is designed to cater to the increasing demand for volumetric goods, particularly in the rapidly growing e-commerce sector. The Supro Profit Truck Excel stands out for its best-in-class payload capacity of 900 kg (Diesel) & 750 kg (CNG Duo), enhanced safety feature with an Anti-Roll Bar which provides stability to the 2050mm wheelbase, 5-speed transmission. The Supro Excel Diesel achieves a fuel efficiency of 23.6 Km/l, while the Supro Excel CNG Duo, with a capacity of 105L, delivers an impressive 24.8 km/kg and boasts a remarkable range of over 500 km.

The new SCV is equipped with a powerful 19.4 kW Direct Injection Diesel Engine and 20.01 kW Positive Ignition CNG Engine BS6 RDE-compliant engine, providing 55 Nm and 60 Nm torque respectively. The vehicle features R13 tyres and boasts 208 mm of ground clearance, ensuring higher performance and pickup even with a full load.  The Supro Profit Truck Excel boasts a reinforced chassis with a significantly increased thickness, delivering a remarkable 19% surge in stiffness for unparalleled durability and performance. Complemented by a bolstered suspension, this truck sets a new standard for robustness and resilience.

The  ex-showroom prices for the Supro Profit Truck Excel are:

Variant                  Ex-showroom Bangalore*

Diesel                   Rs 6,61,859

CNG DUO           Rs 6,93,859

About Mahindra

Founded in 1945, the Mahindra Group is one of the largest and most admired multinational federation of companies with 260,000 employees in over 100 countries. It enjoys a leadership position in farm equipment, utility vehicles, information technology and financial services in India and is the world’s largest tractor company by volume. It has a strong presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality and real estate. 

The Mahindra Group has a clear focus on leading ESG globally, enabling rural prosperity and enhancing urban living, with a goal to drive positive change in the lives of communities and stakeholders to enable them to Rise.

Learn more about Mahindra on www.mahindra.com / Twitter and Facebook: @MahindraRise/

For updates subscribe to https://www.mahindra.com/news-room.

MAHE, Celebrates Dr. Ranjan R. Pai’s Achievement: Honored With The Prestigious Paryaya Darbar Award

At a vibrant and distinguished ceremony in Udupi's Chaturtha Paryaya Mahotsav, Dr. Ranjan R. Pai, President of MAHE Trust and Chairman of Manipal Education and Medical Group was honored with the esteemed Paryaya Darbar Award. This accolade, presented during the celebrated festival led by Sri Sri Sugunendra Theertha Sripada of Sri Putige Mutt, recognizes Dr. Pai’s outstanding contributions to education and healthcare.

Dr. Pai, following in the footsteps of his parents Dr. Ramdas Pai and Vasanthi R Pai, has played a pivotal role in elevating the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) to one of India's top ten multidisciplinary universities. His visionary approach has not only garnered an 'excellence' status from the Union Ministry of Education but also expanded the institution's presence globally, with campuses in Jaipur, Jamshedpur, Sikkim, Malaysia, Dubai, and Antigua.

Under Dr. Pai's stewardship, Manipal Hospital has soared to new heights as the country’s second-largest hospital chain. Boasting over 9000 beds, the hospital network treats approximately 2 million patients every day, embodying the pinnacle of healthcare excellence. A globally recognized social entrepreneur, Dr. Pai has significantly impacted the educational landscape, benefiting millions of students and creating numerous employment opportunities. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in the growth and success of the Manipal Education and Medical Group. Dr. Pai's journey is supported by his wife, Shrimati Shruti R. Pai, the Creative Director of the Group, and their children, Sanya and Riya. Together, they exemplify a family committed to social welfare and educational excellence.

The ceremony was further brightened by the heartfelt congratulations from Dr. HS Ballal, Pro - Chancellor of MAHE, Lt. Gen. (Dr) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice chancellor, MAHE and the entire Governing Body of MAHE Manipal, who joined in celebrating Dr. Pai’s remarkable achievement.

This prestigious award not only signifies Dr. Pai's individual excellence but also marks a moment of pride for the entire Manipal community, celebrating the legacy and future of an institution committed to shaping the world through education and healthcare.

For media inquiries and additional information, please reach out to the Deputy Director of PR and Communications at 7338625909 or via email at dpr.mu@manipal.edu

Shoppers Stop Reports Quarterly Sales Of Rs 1,207 Cr, Up +7% YoY And EBITDA Of Rs.219 Cr (GAAP)

Highlights

Beauty outperformed +10%, led by Fragrance +41%; Make up +6%; Overall Mix at 18% 

Private Brands Mix at 13% and apparels Mix at 19%; Women Indian wear outperformed +7% 

Premiumization on rise; ATV +6% 

Added 13 stores during the quarter; 4 Department, 4 Beauty, 4 Intune and 1 Airport; Capex Investments @ Rs.51 Cr for Q3 and YTD Rs162 Cr 

Debt free with Net Cash surplus of Rs 40 Cr 

Shoppers Stop Ltd. a leading department store with premier fashion and beauty brands, has declared its results for the quarter ended 31st December 2023.  

Management Comments: 

Commenting on the Q3FY24 results, Mr. Kavindra Mishra, Executive Director and CEO, Shoppers Stop Ltd, said, “With considerable slowdown on the discretionary spending, we have demonstrated notable resilience in these tough conditions. Our Company has delivered admirable financial results with a Sales growth of 7% despite muted consumer demand. And during the festive period, the sales grew by 9% (LTL +5%). Average Transaction value grew by 6% driven by premiumization and Items per Ticket grew by +5%. Some of the outliers for Q3 are, our external Brands both apparel and non-apparel have grown above average, with better yields on our KPI’s. Our Home Stop has turned around and had an impressive growth of 10%, with a sale of Rs. 42 Crs. We reported a GAAP EBITDA of Rs.219 Crs vs Rs.240 Crs in FY23. Our EBITDA has been lower due to one-time Income of Rs.17 Crs as other Income in FY23 and we have made provision for obsolescence of circa Rs.9 Crs during the quarter.  

We have observed that despite the overall muted market conditions our customers have upped their spends on the differentiated mix of premium brands and experiences across various categories wherein SSL is a destination”. 

Performance of strategic pillars in Q3FY24: 

First Citizen – Our First Citizen Members contributed 78% to overall sales, out of which 65% were repeat and 13% new members. Our Premium Black Card members contributed 13% to the overall sales, an increase of 18% YoY. During the quarter we added 191K members and total base at the quarter end is 9.7Mn.  The customer engagement continued to be strong, with events such as sailing and cocktail making organized for First Citizen Black Card members which had a good response. We had 118 Customer events across all our stores, making it a memorable shopping experience for our customers. 

Private Brands – Private Brands sales were at Rs 189 Cr with an overall contribution of 13% to the Sales and 19% to apparel’s sale. Women’s Indian Wear grew +7%. Our Sanya X Kashish campaign had a good response from customers. Kashish outperformed with Sales growth of +18%. Kidswear within the brand STOP grew by 8%. 

Beauty – Beauty grew by +10%, outperforming other segments in the retail with an overall sale of Rs.262 Crs.  Beauty Contribution to overall sales increased to 18%. We have been building Beauty Eco Systems through customer engagements and in store experiences. This has further strengthened by our 266,000 Makeovers and 138 Master Classes covering “Bridal makeup and Party Glam Look” this quarter.  During the quarter, we opened State of the Art Beauty Store sprawling 3000 sq ft at the prestigious T2 Bengaluru Airport.  

Intune –Our “Fashion for all” format, Intune has been one of the promising and fast-growing segment. We have added 4 stores during the quarter and total store count is 10 across 6 cities. Akin to previous quarters, we had a Full price sell thru of 65%. The format received strong acceptance for Family shopping with Kidswear Mix at 27%. We are planning to add 14 Intune stores in Q4FY24, aggregating to 24 by FY24 end. 

Beauty Distribution – Beauty distribution business clocked Rs 39 Cr sales with distribution network expanded to over 334 doors. We added Fragrance brand Armaf and Makeup brand Soda Makeup in our distribution portfolio taking total brand count to 18 consisting 10 Fragrance, 2 Makeup, 3 Skincare and 3 Full line brands. 

Store Expansion – The company is on course to meet the guided store expansion for FY24. We opened 4 department stores, 4 beauty stores, 4 Intune and 1 Airport stores in this quarter, aggregating to 13 stores this quarter and 33 stores year to date. The company made an investment of Rs 51 crores on expansion during the quarter.  

About Shoppers Stop Limited: Shoppers Stop Ltd. is the nation's leading premier retailer of fashion and beauty brands established in 1991. Spread across 105 department stores, the Company also operates 7 premium home concept stores, 88 Specialty Beauty stores of M.A.C, Estée Lauder, Bobbi Brown, Clinique, Jo Malone, Too Faced, SS Beauty, 10 Intune stores and 23 Airport doors, occupying area of 4.1 M sq. ft. Shoppers Stop is home to one of the country's longest running and most coveted loyalty program 'First Citizen'. The Company's one-of-a-kind shopping assistance service, 'Personal Shopper' is revolutionizing the way Indian’s shop, bringing more value, comfort, and convenience to customer experiences. The brand's diversified Omni channel offering spans over 800+ recognized and trusted brands across an incomparable range of products that together serve our overarching objective of delivering customer. 

ABB Robotics And Simpliforge Creations Advance 3D Printing Capabilities For India’s Construction Sector

 •      ABB robots and RobotStudio®, together with Simpliforge's proprietary software are building South Asia’s largest robotic concrete 3D printer

•      Collaboration has already created the world’s first 3D printed place of worship and India’s first 3D printed bridge

•      Robotics and 3D printing, alongside conventional methods of construction, will help businesses build more efficiently, safely, and sustainably

ABB Robotics and Simpliforge Creations, an additive manufacturing solutions company, are collaborating to strengthen and advance 3D Printing technologies for the Indian construction sector. The collaboration will enable construction companies to build structures faster, more sustainably and safely. The technology has the potential to transform the construction landscape across industrial, defense, commercial and residential sectors- especially disaster affected areas set for rapid rehabilitation and infrastructure reinstatement.

“With the focus on infrastructure growth and development in India, it is crucial to invest in technologies that increase productivity and efficiency,” said Subrata Karmakar, President - Robotics & Discrete Automation, ABB India. “3D printed construction is already advancing the construction industry, making operations more flexible and efficient, while reducing supply chain costs, construction waste and carbon footprints. We are proud to collaborate with Simpliforge to create state-of-the-art solutions for 3D construction printing.”

Investment in infrastructure development, including national highways, government buildings and public facilities is key to boosting India’s rapid growth and development. While software has traditionally been involved in the planning and post-build stages, the physical act of construction has remained a manual task. Now, ABB’s IRB6700 robots with enhanced payload management can automate this, seamlessly integrating into Simpliforge’s operations. This provides an end-to-end solution for the industry alongside conventional methods of construction.

While normal robot systems have the reach of 6.5M diameter, ABB’s Robot based system by Simpliforge – the first in India and largest in South Asia - has a higher 3D print size to footprint ratio which can extend to 8.5M. It is easy to operate and can also be transported and commissioned on site. The robot is built to operate in wet and robust construction environments, and can work seamlessly with concrete and cementitious material, making it the best choice for 3D printed construction. This system also ensures unprecedented accuracy, precision and reproducibility - reducing reworking and quality control costs.

“Our long-standing relationship with ABB India ensures we have access to robust, reliable and localized technology that makes our operations faster and more efficient,” said Dhruv Gandhi, CEO, Simpliforge. “Using ABB’s hardware and software, we developed sophisticated, safer and more reliable 3D printing capabilities that support flexible manufacturing and design freedom in construction. We deployed proprietary software developed with ABB’s RobotStudio® to create India’s first, and South Asia’s largest robotic concrete 3D printer to address the diverse housing needs of the nation. We look forward to working with ABB on many more firsts, following our 3D printed place of worship - a world first, and India’s first 3D-printed bridge.”

This is the latest example of ABB Robotics bringing greater levels of automation to the construction sector, to make it more efficient, faster, safer and more sustainable. Learn more about ABB Robotics in construction here - https://new.abb.com/products/robotics/industries/transforming-the-future-of-construction

ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation as one of the world’s leading robotics and machine automation suppliers, is the only company with a comprehensive and integrated portfolio covering robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots and machine automation solutions, designed and orchestrated by our value-creating software. We help companies of all sizes and sectors - from automotive to electronics and logistics – become more resilient, flexible and efficient. ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation supports customers in the transition towards the connected and collaborative factory of the future. The business area employs approximately 11,000 people at over 100 locations in approximately 53 countries. go.abb/robotics.

Kotak Launches Seamless GST Payment With Multiple Options – UPI, Credit Card , Debit Card And Net Banking

* This initiative endorses Kotak’s commitment to support Government of India’s vision to promote digital payments and simplify financial transactions

In line with Government of India’s vision to promote digital payments and simplify financial transactions, Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited (“KMBL”/“Kotak”) today announced the launch of seamless GST payments through multiple options - UPI, Credit Card, and Debit Card, in addition to the existing Net Banking option. Kotak is India’s first bank that enables tax payers to seamlessly meet their GST obligations by choosing their preferred digital payment mode in the GST portal’s 'E-payment'.

Kotak Mahindra Bank continues to be an ardent supporter of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure and has been participating in the growth of the digital marketplace through multiple initiatives. With the new seamless and multiple payment options, customers, even those from other banks (previously unauthorised for certain payment options), will be able to efficiently and reliably complete their GST payments. Notably, Kotak integrated with the Centre's GST portal last year, providing a user-friendly platform for tax fulfilment through its Net Banking service.

Raghavendra Singh, President, Public Affairs & Government Business, Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited, said, "We commend the Government of India's efforts in leading a digital payment revolution that is being recognised and adopted by countries across the world. As the first Bank in India to launch multiple GST payment options, we are delighted to pave the way for the future of digital payments through a frictionless customer experience for not only Kotak customers but for all tax payers”.

How to pay GST via KMBL’s seamless GST payment:

Log in to www.gst.gov.in

Create Challan & Select E-Payment

Choose from multiple payment options such as Credit Card, Debit Card or UPI

Select Kotak Mahindra Bank*

Make the payment

About Kotak Mahindra Group

Established in 1985, Kotak Mahindra Group is one of India's leading financial services conglomerates. In February 2003, Kotak Mahindra Finance Ltd. (KMFL), the Group's flagship company, received banking license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), becoming the first non-banking finance company in India to convert into a bank - Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd (KMBL).

Kotak Mahindra Group (Group) offers a wide range of financial services that encompass every sphere of life. From commercial banking to stock broking, mutual funds, life and general insurance and investment banking, the Group caters to the diverse financial needs of individuals and the corporate sector. The premise of Kotak Mahindra Group’s business model is concentrated India, diversified financial services. The bold vision that underscores the Group’s growth is an inclusive one, with a host of products and services designed to address the needs of the unbanked and insufficiently banked.

Kotak Mahindra Group has a global presence through its subsidiaries in UK, USA, Gulf Region, Singapore and Mauritius with offices in London, New York, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore and Mauritius respectively. As on 30th June, 2023, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has a national footprint of 1,788 branches and 3,047 ATMs, and branches in GIFT City and DIFC (Dubai).

For more information, please visit the Company’s website at https://www.kotak.com

99% Of Fortune 500 Executives Agree That The Future Of Work Is Distributed: Atlassian Report

* The report ‘Lessons Learned: 1,000 Days of Distributed at Atlassian’ provides insights to more effective collaboration 

Atlassian Corporation (NASDAQ:TEAM), a leading provider of team collaboration and productivity software including Jira Software, Confluence and Jira Service Management, has launched its report, ‘Lessons Learned: 1,000 Days of Distributed at Atlassian’, that details how the company has tackled challenges associated with a distributed work model and what worked - and what failed for the company after implementing its Team Anywhere policy. 

Atlassian surveyed one hundred Fortune 500 executives and another hundred Fortune 1000 executives based in US in September 2023, which revealed - an overwhelming majority of executives (99%) agree that work will only become more distributed in the future. The research found that all large organizations work in a distributed way, whether they have an in-office policy or not. Distributed work is essentially done online by collaborating across locations vs shoulder-to-shoulder.

As per its Team Anywhere policy, employees can choose to work from home, an office, or a combination of both. This approach has been a success as the company is able to attract and retain top talent. Also, the representation of women at Atlassian in India is more than 2x higher now since practicing Team Anywhere. According to 92% of the employees, the company’s distributed work policy allows them to do their best work, and 91% say it’s an important reason why they stay at Atlassian.  

Annie Dean, Head of Team Anywhere at Atlassian said, “Atlassian is in the business of unleashing team potential. We want to help teams do distributed work well - and the best way to do that is to live it ourselves. Distributed work isn’t a sacrifice – it’s a huge opportunity for businesses and for people — especially underrepresented groups. We’re finding that teams designed to be distributed are actually figuring out better ways of working.” 

“Atlassian is living proof that location flexibility, vibrant offices, and employee engagement can co-exist, even at scale. Our evidence-based approach to distributed work is an opportunity to solve the challenges our customers will face. That’s why we’re so passionate about sharing what we discover – we take what we learn to shape what we build,” she added. 

Some of the hero findings from the survey include: 

According to the report, the biggest blockers to productivity, connection, and innovation are not location-based. 98% of the executives agree that where teams work isn’t the problem, it’s how.  

Only one-third of executives with an in-office policy mandate think that their in-office policies have had any impact on productivity. 

87% of executives say their teams do not have visibility into each other’s goals. The biggest barriers to collaboration are that employees don’t know who to collaborate with (39%), employees don’t know how to collaborate effectively (38%) and a lack of ownership of tasks (37%). 

The report ‘Lessons Learned: 1,000 Days of Distributed at Atlassian’ serves as a playbook that shares Atlassian’s experience on what they’ve learned. There have been some important concerns against remote or distributed work, which tend to be based on feelings and gut reactions. The company has made decisions based on data, and this report addresses each of these challenges mentioned in the summary below: 

Distributed challenge 1: Productivity 

Insight: Atlassians who participated in an experiment where they “timeboxed” their top priorities declined 17% more meetings than usual and spent 13% less time in meetings. 

Distributed challenge 2: Connection

Insight: Team gatherings increase team connection by 27%, and this boost lasts 4-5 months. New hires and new graduates experience the biggest boosts in team connection following an in-person gathering. 

Distributed challenge 3: Offices 

Insights: 

*   Despite Atlassian having no mandates, the company consistently saw 80% of the Atlassians visit an office each quarter. 

*   Atlassians working in India annually save approximately a month, as against the global average of approximately 10 days. 

Distributed challenge 4: Culture 

Insight: As collaboration increasingly happens online, work and how it gets down will become more of a cultural constant than offices. 

The report concludes by stating that neglecting to adapt to the distributed new normal is not just a missed opportunity but a detriment to an organization’s ability to harness its full business potential. It’s not rocket science: when teams work smarter, they can achieve more, faster, and with better results. 

The ‘Lessons Learned: 1,000 Days of Distributed at Atlassian’ report. 

About Atlassian 

Atlassian unleashes the potential of every team. Our agile & DevOps, IT service management and work management software helps teams organize, discuss, and complete shared work. The majority of the Fortune 500 and over 265,000 companies of all sizes worldwide - including NASA, Audi, Kiva, Deutsche Bank and Dropbox - rely on our solutions to help their teams work better together and deliver quality results on time. Learn more about our products, including Jira Software, Confluence and Jira Service Management at https://atlassian.com. 

PhonePe Drives Over 65% Growth For Two-Wheeler Digital Insurance In India

-       PhonePe has so far sold over 9 million Insurance policies overall

-       The company has also introduced a unique monthly premium plan for health insurance

PhonePe today announced that it has contributed to over 65% growth for two-wheeler digital Insurance in India, over the last 2 years. In a shift indicative of the evolution of the Indian insurance industry and growing consumer trust, there has been a notable surge in the adoption of digital channels for purchasing insurance. The company has also facilitated over 75 million vehicle insurance quotes and 400 million quotes across insurance products.

PhonePe started offering Insurance on its platform in September 2021, and since then has sold over 9 million overall policies, with over 4 million being sold in the last year alone. The digital insurance market is growing at a CAGR of 24%, with a large part of this growth coming from PhonePe.

Having disrupted the market with motor insurance products, PhonePe recently introduced a unique monthly premium plan for health insurance – a first-of-its-kind initiative in the industry. This move is driven by two critical insights; The convenience of monthly payments, extending beyond credit card/EMI users to encompass everyone. This departure from lump-sum payments involves actual monthly payouts, thereby easing the financial burden for our users. It also empowers our users to opt for more extensive insurance coverage, due to enhanced affordability, without compromising on savings. Also, the transparency in selecting the appropriate coverage is reflected in the Average Transaction Size (ATS) with an increasing number of users opting for comprehensive protection.

Commenting on the milestone Vishal Gupta, CEO of PhonePe Insurance said,’ PhonePe’s innovative approach and customer-centric solutions have played a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of the digital insurance space. True to its ethos of positive disruption, PhonePe is revolutionizing the insurance buying experience in India. Our monthly premium plan for health insurance is another step in our commitment to providing innovative, customer-friendly solutions that truly address the needs of the modern Indian consumer. What sets PhonePe apart is its strategic partnerships with industry leaders, bringing deep expertise to co-create tailor-made offerings for its expanding customer base. These partnerships not only reflect the industry's trust in PhonePe but also underline the efforts it has made in enhancing and simplifying customer journeys.’’

About PhonePe Group:

PhonePe is India’s leading digital payments company with 51 crore (510 Million) registered users and 3.8 crore (38 Million) merchants covering over 99% of the postal codes across India. On the back of its leadership in digital payments, PhonePe has expanded into financial services (Insurance, Digital Gold, Mutual Funds, Stock Broking, and Lending) as well as adjacent tech-enabled businesses such as Pincode for hyperlocal shopping and Indus App Store which is India's first localized App Store. The PhonePe Group is a portfolio of businesses aligned with the company's vision to offer every Indian an equal opportunity to accelerate their progress by unlocking the flow of money and access to services.

For more details: media@phonepe.com   

People With Myopia Three Times More Likely To Develop Glaucoma: Doctors

People with myopia have two to three times higher risk of developing glaucomacompared to those with normal eyesight, doctors of Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital have said during the ongoing Glaucoma Awareness Month.  

Myopia, the leading cause of refractive error, affects about 10-20 percent of the Indian population. Glaucoma, on the other hand, is the third leading cause of blindness in India. Said Dr. Ram S Mirlay, Regional Head - Clinical Services, Dr. Agarwals Hospital, Bengaluru: “There is a two-three-fold increased risk of Glaucoma in people having moderate to high myopia. The risk is independent of the fluid pressure of the eye.  About 30% of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG) patients have myopia. The probability of someone with myopia going on to develop Glaucoma depends on age, family history and the level of myopia, whether mild or severe.  

He added: “Thin corneas, high myopia or family history are risk factors for developing Glaucoma. Over the years, individuals having both myopia and glaucoma would experience negative changes in their vision. Regular eye checkups are crucial in these cases to check for progression of the disease and follow a proper treatment plan.” 

Said Dr. P Sunitha, Consultant – Ophthalmologist at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, “Considering the linkage between myopia and Glaucoma, it is important to take several preventive steps. Myopia can be controlled in children by limiting their near-work activities like reading, computer use, playing video games, and watching TV from close distance, all of which impose a high visual demand on their eyes. They should be encouraged to spend more time in outdoor activities. It is also important to wear proper corrective lenses. People with myopia should get their eyes checked up twice a year. Lack of awareness, limited access to diagnostic equipment and poor compliance for regular eye checkups are some of the diagnostic challenges in identifying glaucoma and myopia in early stages.” 

Said Dr. Ram S Mirlay: “Two eye-screening studies done in 2012 at a school in Kolar between the age of 6-16 years found an 11.5% prevalence of myopia. In 2016, a study at Udupi found a myopia prevalence of 4%. India is the second most populated country in the world with around 41% of population above 18 years of age. The incidence of myopia would be significant.” 

“Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive eye disease caused by damage to the optic nerve, which gradually leads to loss of eyesight. Peripheral vision is affected first. One of the major risk factors is high eye pressure. There are no warning signs till significant damage has already been done. Treatment mainly revolves around lowering the Intraocular pressure (the fluid pressure of the eye) through medication or laser surgery. About 12 million people, aged 40 years and older, suffer from glaucoma in India” says Dr. Archana S, Regional Head - Clinical Services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital. 

Photo Caption: Dr. Ram S Mirlay, Regional Head - Clinical Services, Dr. Agarwals Hospital, Bengaluru, Dr. Archana S, Regional Head - Clinical Services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital and Dr. P Sunitha, Consultant – Ophthalmologist at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital.

School Children Showcase Poor Fitness Levels Across India;: Reveals 12th Annual Health Survey By Sportz Village

The 12th Annual Health Survey by Sportz Village, through its award-winning EduSports in-school Physical Education & Sports programhas revealed poor fitness levels in most school children across India. The nationwide survey assessed for various health parameters like Body Mass Index (BMI), Aerobic capacity, Anaerobic capacity, Core Strength, Flexibility, Upper body strength and Lower body strength for over 73,000 children in the age groups of 7 years to 17 years from across 250 cities and towns in India.  

The survey also showcases that the frequency of weekly Physical Education (P.E.) periods plays a pivotal role in shaping the health of children. The comprehensive data reveals a noteworthy correlation between the number of P.E. sessions per week and various aspects of children's physical fitness. Remarkably, the survey highlights that children engaging in more than two physical education periods per week exhibit significantly enhanced performance across multiple physical fitness parameters. Improvements are observed in crucial aspects such as Lower Body Strength, Abdominal Strength, Flexibility, and Aerobic Capacity. These findings underscore the positive impact of increased P.E. participation on the holistic well-being of children, emphasizing the importance of incorporating regular physical activity into their routine. 

It also reveals notable distinctions in various health metrics between boys and girls. Particularly noteworthy is the observation that a higher percentage of girls exhibit healthier Body Mass Index (BMI) levels, with 62% of girls attaining scores within the healthy range. In contrast, boys show a comparatively lower percentage in this regard.  

Further examination of specific physical fitness parameters unveils that girls outperform boys in Flexibility and Upper Body Strength. These findings underscore the positive impact of regular physical activity on these aspects of girls' health. However, the survey also brings to light areas where boys exhibit stronger performance. Notably, boys demonstrate superior results in Aerobic Capacity and Lower Body Strength. These nuanced insights into gender-specific health indicators emphasize the importance of tailored approaches in promoting overall well-being among both boys and girls. 

Commenting on the findings from the Annual Health Survey, Mr. Saumil Majmudar, CEO & Managing Director, Sportz Village, said “At Sportz Village, we are committed to transform the lives of children through the magic of sports. The Annual Health Survey sheds light on the state of health and fitness among Indian children today - and the current situation is not ideal. There is a tendency for school leaders and parents to view sports & physical education as non-essential and not as important as academics. Hence, less time and energy are devoted to physical activity resulting in poor health of children. Schools need to view sports as an integral part of education and should provide opportunities for children to engage in structured physical activities. Various studies have shown that regular structured physical activity not only improves physical health but also impacts mental health and academic performance. Over the past 15 years, the EduSports program has bridged this gap by integrating into the school timetable and calendar” 

Key findings 

Total number of children surveyed 73,000 across India  

2 in 5 children do not have a healthy BMI 

2 in 5 children do not possess the desired Anaerobic Capacity 

3 in 4 children do not have the desired Aerobic Capacity 

1 in 3 children do not have the desired Abdominal or Core strength 

3 in 5 children do not have the adequate Upper Body and Lower Body Strength 

Fitness levels comparative analysis: Girls versus Boys   

According to the survey, the percentage of girls with healthier BMI levels (62% of girls have healthy BMI scores) is more when compared to boys. The girls also fared better in Flexibility and Upper Body Strength. However, they did not fare well in Aerobic Capacity and Lower Body Strength. 

Fitness levels comparative analysis: Government Schools versus Private Schools   

The survey further reveals, more children in private schools have better Upper Body Strength levels (43%), compared to the children from government schools (31%). Children from government schools fared better in BMI, Aerobic Capacity & Flexibility. 

Fitness levels comparative analysis: Effect of number of P.E periods per week 

The survey further shows that children with more than 2 physical education periods per week, have significantly better performance in multiple physical fitness parameters such as Lower Body Strength, Abdominal Strength, Flexibility & Aerobic Capacity 

Parameters description: 

Body Mass Index (BMI): A value derived from the weight and height of an individual and is used to gauge whether a person is within a healthy weight range. 

Aerobic capacity: The ability of the heart and lungs to get oxygen to the muscles. 

Anaerobic capacity: The total amount of energy from the anaerobic (without oxygen) energy systems. It is useful during high intensity short duration exercises or tasks such as sprinting.  

Abdominal or Core strength: The strength of the muscles of the torso which helps to determine posture. 

Flexibility: The ability of one's joints to move freely.  

Upper body strength: The strength of muscles such as Pectorals (chest), Rhomboids (upper back), Deltoids (outer shoulder), Triceps (back of upper arm) and Biceps (front of upper arm). 

Lower body strength: The strength of muscles in the legs such as quadriceps (the muscles on the front of the upper leg), Hamstrings (the muscles on the back of the upper leg), Gluteals, Hip Flexors, and Calf muscles. 

About Sportz Village: 

Sportz Village is the world’s largest youth sports platform that is trying to make the world a better place with an aim to get 100 million children to play sports. Established in 2003, Sportz Village’s philosophy is pillared on improving the health and ?tness of children and getting everyone to experience the magic of sports. EduSports, A Sportz Village initiative is India’s No.1 sports education program being implemented in over 1,500 schools across 250 locations impacting 7,00,000 children. The organization believes in making sports an integral part of the education of a child and is working towards developing a healthier and fitter generation by using a Structured Sports and Physical Education (P.E) curriculum. The curriculum has been developed based on NASPE (National Association for Sports and Physical Education, USA) standards. 

https://www.sportzvillage.com/