Air India Express Launches Flash Sale With Fares Starting At Rs 1037

^ Air India Express Flash Sale offer is valid for bookings made till August 25, 2024

Air India Express launched its ‘Flash Sale’, featuring Xpress Lite fares starting from ?1037 and zero convenience fee for logged-in members on the airline’s award-winning website, airindiaexpress.com and mobile app. The sale is open for bookings made till 25th August for travel from 26th August to 24th October, 2024, on domestic sectors of the airline.

The sale also includes Xpress Value fares starting for as low as ?1195 as the airline offers fab deals on routes such as Delhi-Jaipur, Kolkata-Imphal, Chennai-Bhubaneswar, along with special sale fares across its network of 32 domestic destinations.

Bookers on airindiaexpress.com get exclusive access to the exclusive zero-check-in baggage Xpress Lite fares. Xpress Lite fares also include the option to pre-book an additional 3 kg of cabin baggage at no fee and a discounted fee for check-in baggage at ?1000 for 15 kg on domestic flights and ?1300 for 20 kg on international flights.

Air India Express loyalty members get exclusive discounts and can earn up to 8% NeuCoins on the airline’s website, in addition to exclusive fab deals like upto 47% off Biz and Prime Seats, ‘Gourmair’ hot meals and beverages and add-on packs. In addition to loyalty members, students, senior citizens, SMEs, Doctors and Nurses, and members of the armed forces and their dependents can also book special discounted fares on the airline’s website.

Xpress Biz fares are available on all the new Air India Express Boeing 737-8 aircraft, as a Business Class equivalent, disrupting the traditional LCC model with the proposition of a hybrid value carrier in keeping with the refreshed Air India Express brand positioning ‘Fly As You Are’. Guests can also upgrade to Biz seats for an enhanced travel experience with a seat pitch of up to 58 inches. As it rapidly expands its fleet, the airline is inducting nearly 4 new aircraft every month and has 4-8 Biz seats in the over 30 new aircraft inducted since it’s brand launch in October 2023.

About Air India Express

Air India Express, is a subsidiary of Air India and a part of the Tata group, operating over 380 daily flights, connecting 32 domestic and 15 international airports, with a fleet of 82 aircraft, comprising 54 Boeing 737s and 28 Airbus A320s. Air India Express invites guests with the proposition to ‘Fly As You Are’, using thoughtfully considered technology to enable flyers to personalise and take charge of their travel experience. The airline offers ‘Gourmair’ hot meals, comfortable seats, and a host of exclusive loyalty benefits with a sense of unique Indian warmth, and an award-winning digital experience on its mobile app and website, airindiaexpress.com.

Bollywood Actress - Amrita Rao As Brand Ambassador For Hi Kalpaa Event In Bengaluru

* Amrita Rao to Champion Hi Kalpaa’s Vision of Experiential Learning, Aiming to Elevate Early Childhood Education Nationwide

Hi Kalpaa, a leading institution in early childhood education, proudly announces the onboarding of renowned Bollywood actress- Amrita Rao as its official Brand Ambassador. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone for Hi Kalpaa to provide top-notch education and care for young minds.

Hi Kalpaa, known for its innovative approach to early childhood education, emphasizes the importance of creation through experiment and experience. By nurturing each child's individual potential, interests, and needs, Hi Kalpaa provides a holistic and enriched learning experience.

“We are delighted to welcome Amrita Rao as the Brand Ambassador of Hi Kalpaa,” stated Shalini Sharma, CEO and Founder of Hi Kalpaa. “Her values and commitment to excellence mirror our own, and we provide an environment where every child can thrive. We are confident that her association with Hi Kalpaa will further our mission to revolutionize early childhood education and expand our reach nationwide.

Amrita Rao, celebrated for her contributions to Indian cinema, brings with her a reputation of grace, intellect, and integrity. Her involvement with Hi Kalpaa underscores a shared vision of nurturing future generations through quality education.

“It is a privilege to join hands with Hi Kalpaa, a pioneering institution that truly understands the significance of early childhood education,” said Amrita Rao. “The school’s focus on creating a nurturing and stimulating environment aligns perfectly with my values. I am excited to contribute to this meaningful initiative and help inspire the young minds of tomorrow.”

This partnership with Amrita Rao marks a significant milestone in Hi Kalpaa’s journey. As a Brand Ambassador, Amrita Rao will play a pivotal role in various campaigns and initiatives aimed at highlighting the unique strengths of Hi Kalpaa’s educational programs. Her involvement will further enhance the school’s efforts to connect with parents and communities who prioritize the best start for their children.

About Hi Kalpaa:

Hi Kalpaa is a School of Experiential Learning, dedicated to providing an environment where children can explore, learn, and grow with confidence. Backed by a team of exceptionally experienced educators, Hi Kalpaa is committed to nurturing the individual potential of each child through innovative and hands-on learning experiences.

Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, Galaxy A35 5G With Circle To Search Now Available Starting INR 25999

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced a never-before-seen price on Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G smartphones. Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G deliver the best of Samsung’s flagship mobile innovations, and now come with Circle to Search with Google, an AI feature.

Under the limited period offer, Galaxy A55 5G will be available at a net effective starting price of INR 33999, while Galaxy A35 5G will be available at a net effective starting price of INR 25999.

The Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G have multiple flagship features including Gorilla Glass Victus+, camera features enhanced by AI, Samsung Knox Vault, four OS upgrades and five years of security updates.

Customers can avail attractive bank cashback of INR 6000 on Galaxy A55 5G and INR 5000 on Galaxy A35 5G, when buying these smartphones using credit cards from leading banks. They can also avail EMIs of up to six months.

Customers can also enjoy an upgrade bonus of up to INR 6000 on Galaxy A55 5G and up to INR 5000 on Galaxy A35 5G. However, customers can avail either bank cashback or upgrade bonus.

Circle to Search

Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G come with Circle to Search, offering a transformative experience of discovery that goes beyond traditional search methods. This feature — the result of a deep collaboration with Google — has continuously evolved to enhance its usability and intuitiveness. As one of the most popular features of Galaxy AI, Circle to Search allows users to search for anything on their screen with a simple gesture – drawing a circle around a text with a finger or scribbling on an object on screen – without the need to switch apps. For instance, if users come across a clothing item they like in a social media post, they can draw a circle around it using Circle to Search to find similar products online instantly. Circle to Search, which has also become a standout in the Galaxy S24 Series, can further help with daily tasks like identifying a landmark, shopping for an untagged item, or exploring details within a video.

Awesome Camera

Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G come with a host of impressive features including photography capabilities inspired by Galaxy’s flagship camera innovations and a stunning 6.6-inch screen display that adjusts to users’ surroundings with Vision Booster. Galaxy A55 5G comes with 50MP Main with OIS and 12MP Ultra-Wide, while Galaxy A35 5G comes with 50MP Main with OIS and 8MP Ultra-Wide. Both feature a 5MP Macro. Galaxy A55 5G features a 32MP Front Camera, while Galaxy A35 5G comes with a 13MP Front Camera. The devices also have features such as 4K stabilization due to VDIS + adaptive VDIS (video digital image stabilization) and OIS (optical image stabilization) that keep photos and videos crisp even when filming on the go. The enhanced Nightography feature on Galaxy A55 5G ensures stunning low-light photography, capturing vibrant images even in challenging lighting conditions. Both devices also boast Super AMOLED displays, offering full HD clarity and an immersive viewing experience.

Moreover, Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G smartphones come with multiple innovative AI enhanced camera features that can take the user’s content game to the next level. Once a picture is clicked, AI-suggested edits like Photo Remaster allow users to enhance their images, Portrait Effect helps focus on what is truly important, and the Object Eraser feature can remove unwanted photo-bombers and reflections. The extremely popular Image Clipper lets users clip the subject of any image and use it as a sticker. The Adjust Speed feature is also phenomenal since it helps dynamically change the speed of the videos and create dramatic outputs similar to professionally shot clips.

Awesome Design & Durability

They are rated IP67, which means they can withstand up to 30 minutes in 1 meter of fresh water. They are also built to resist dust and sand, making them ideal for any situation. Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G are additionally designed to withstand slips and falls due to the Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection on the front and back.

Awesome Performance

The all-new Exynos 1480 processor built on 4nm process technology powers Galaxy A55 5G while the Galaxy A35 5G has been upgraded to the Exynos 1380 processor built on 5nm process technology. These power-packed smartphones come with several NPU, GPU and CPU upgrades along with a 70%+ larger cooling chamber that ensures a smooth output whether you game or multi-task.

Awesome Secure like None Other    

Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G bring one of Samsung’s most innovative security features from flagship Galaxy devices to Galaxy A series users for the very first time - Samsung Knox Vault. The hardware-based and tamper-resistant security solution offers comprehensive protection against both hardware and software attacks by constructing a secure execution environment that is physically isolated from the system’s main processor and memory. It can also help protect the most critical data on a device, including lock screen credentials, such as PIN codes, passwords and patterns.

For even more ways to stay protected, Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G smartphones offer Auto Blocker, which when switched on can block app installations from unauthorized sources, provide app security checks to scan for potential malware and block potentially malicious commands and software installations to your device while connected by USB cable.

Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G devices are available for purchase via Samsung.com, across Samsung stores, and other online platforms. Galaxy A35 5G is available in three colours - Awesome Lilac, Awesome Ice Blue & Awesome Navy while Galaxy A55 5G is available in two colours - Awesome Ice Blue & Awesome Navy.

Vi Honours Indian Artisans; Ties-up With NGOs To Showcase Local Handicrafts

* Artisans supported by various NGOs showcased their creations at Vi Stores across India

Celebrating India, leading telecom operator Vi launched its unique initiative, Artisans of India. This special initiative celebrated the craftsmanship and skills of local artisans, adding a vibrant touch across the country.

Vi helped provide a platform to over 60 talented artisans across its stores in multiple States. Vi Stores in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, New Delhi, Karnataka, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Gujarat collaborated with local NGOs to showcase artisans’ work to the public.  

These artisans, working with various crafts and traditions, showcased hand-painted bags, chikankari embroidery, paintings, toys, decorated diyas, and more.

Some NGOs Vi partnered with for this initiative included Universal Smile, ESSCENT, Astha Foundation’s Parivartan School for Specially-Abled Children, Shwwas Samiti-Swastik Handicraft Women Welfare Association, Disha Shakti Swayam Sahayta Samooh, and RAFEC. At Kolkata’s South City store, Universal Smile showcased hand-painted cloth bags made by women, with proceeds supporting an orphanage, while in Gujarat, the Astha Foundation worked with specially-abled children to create and showcase decorated Diyas.

This reflects Vi’s commitment to supporting local communities and preserving the rich artistic heritage of India. Through the Artisans of India initiative, Vi paid tribute to the cultures that unite us all. Vi remains committed to uplifting the artisans and craftsmen who contribute richly to the fabric of the nation.

About Vodafone Idea Limited

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service provider. The company provides pan India Voice and Data services across 2G, 3G and 4G platforms. Company holds large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mmWave 5G spectrum in 16 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the company is committed to deliver delightful customer experiences and contribute towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The company’s equity share are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India. The company offers products and services to its customers in India under the TM Brand name “Vi”. 

For more information, please visit: www.MyVi.in

Drone-Tech Startup NxtQube Raises Seed Round Funding To Enhance Operations across Asia Pacific, Europe, And The USA

* The funding round was led by Venture Catalysts and was participated by Pontaq VC, Ananta Bizcon LLP, Rushikesh Bhandari and others 

NxtQube, India's premier drone infrastructure company, is announcing that the firm has obtained a seed round funding led by Venture Catalysts, India's leading integrated incubator and accelerator platform, and also witnessed participation from Pontaq VC (STPI), Ananta Bizcon LLP, Rushikesh Bhandari, and other angel investors. The Nashik-based firm will use the acquired funds to enhance its operations in the defence and enterprise sectors across markets in Asia Pacific, Europe, and the US with 2 million drones.

The seed funding round marks a notable milestone for NxtQube in its objective to develop a Universal Drone Docking Station, designed to serve diverse drone categories irrespective of applications. This essential capital inflow will assist NxtQube to make headway in accelerating its strategic expansion, research & development, increasing product line and penetrating new strategic markets to cater to new-age consumers across levels. Furthermore, the firm also envisions unlocking new dimensions of interaction with aerospace technology and enriching lives through innovative solutions. This will be driven through NxtQube’s Drone dock;  a fully automated and industrial-grade universal drone docking station offering cross-compatibility with diverse drone manufacturers and technologies to ensure an efficient aerial ecosystem.

Nikhil Rajput, Co-Founder & CEO of NxtQube, shared his optimism following the seed round success, saying, “The aviation sector has been transforming rapidly through the growing emphasis on drones and this investment will further assist us to ensuring a future to seamlessly integrate technology with the skies to enhance human lives. This funding will also enable us to advance a step further to enhance the quality of our Universal Drone Docking Station to cater to diverse categories and applications. Soon after our domestic launch, we will debut this globally to ensure strategic market penetration to sustain and enhance our profitability. By leveraging innovations,  NxtQube is poised to transform how drones interact with the world, making aerial solutions more accessible and effective.”

Dr. Apoorva Ranjan Sharma, Co-founder, and Managing Director of Venture Catalysts, shared his insights on the investment decision, saying, “NxtQube's innovative approach to drone infrastructure aligns perfectly with the rapidly evolving drone ecosystem. Their universal docking station has the potential to significantly reduce operational costs and increase efficiency in drone deployments. We believe NxtQube is well-positioned to become a global leader in drone infrastructure, catering to the growing demand for autonomous drone operations across various sectors. What particularly excites us is the scalability of their solution and its potential to revolutionise industries beyond just drone operations. As India pushes towards becoming a drone hub, companies like NxtQube will play a crucial role in building the necessary infrastructure.”

Since its inception in 2022, NxtQube has been able to sustain a meteoric rise in the domain, developing indigenous docking stations, building indigenous hardware and feature rich firmware — complementing the Made in India initiative. This has helped the firm to make uninterrupted remote drone operations possible irrespective of locations. NxtQube’s docking stations boast top of the line compatibility of scheduling autonomous missions, along with remote diagnostic capabilities with minimal downtime and assistive pilot features.

The firm is presently developing a battery-swapping module to extend the operational efficiency of drones. However, the firm is also set to address the growing emphasis on global drone innovations by developing docks for swarm capabilities, logistics docks designed for hub-to-hub and last-mile delivery, and platforms for virtual piloting. Its Universal drone docking station, Nxtqube Drone dock is capable of undertaking complex activities that include take-off, landing, flight surveillance, charging and data extraction. 

About NxtQube

NxtQube is on a mission to build Universal autonomous docking stations, with a vision to empower aerial and on-ground robotics for Unmanned Level 2+ Autonomy. Currently leading the Autonomous Drone Docking Stations space in India. NxtQube is focused on building complementary technology and working with the ecosystem, focusing on the Niche technology of Autonomous Drone Docking Stations to continuously innovate and make reliable robotics technology.

PSG College Of Technology honors Leela Kaza, Founder & Co-CEO, Bounteous x Accolite With Distinguished Alumni Award

*  Leela Kaza has been recognized for his outstanding achievements in the IT industry and his role in fostering entrepreneurship 

*  Leela Kaza, Founder and Co-CEO of Bounteous x Accolite, has been recognized by PSG College of Technology as a Distinguished Alumni during the institution’s Foundation Day celebrations. The prestigious honor was awarded in recognition of Leela’s significant  contributions to the IT sector - for spearheading and delivering cutting-edge IT solutions to the world’s leading global brands, creating employment opportunities for thousands, and mentoring over 20 software enterprises to help them scale and thrive.  

Shri. Babasaheb Neelkanth Kalyani, Chairman & Managing Director of Bharat Forge Ltd., along with Shri. L Gopalakrishnan, Managing Trustee of PSG & Sons’ Charities, presided as chief guest for the event. 

The PSG Tech “Distinguished Alumni Award” is an esteemed accolade bestowed upon former students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and excellence in their respective fields. This year, Mr. Leela joins a select group of five other alumni, each of whom has made notable advancements in their industries. 

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Leela remarked, “I am overwhelmed with this recognition from my alma mater, PSG College of Technology. It is a privilege to have studied at such a prestigious institution, and being acknowledged as a Distinguished Alumni is an honor that I hold close to my heart. The foundation laid during my time at PSG Tech has been instrumental in shaping my professional journey, and I am deeply humbled to receive this award alongside such esteemed peers. The relationships I formed during my college days remain intact even today, and it has been incredible to witness how each of my batchmates has gone on to have illustrious careers. This award is not just a recognition of individual achievement but also a celebration of the enduring bonds and shared successes of my PSG Tech family.” 

Dr R Nadarajan, Dean Placement and Training, PSG College of Technology, commented on the award, stating, “We are immensely proud to recognize Leela Kaza as a Distinguished Alumni of PSG Tech. His achievements in the IT sector are truly exemplary and reflect the values and education that PSG Tech strives to instill in its students.

Having an alumnus like Mr. Kaza, who has made such significant contributions and continues to lead with integrity and innovation, is a matter of great pride for our institution. His success is an inspiration to our current students and to the broader PSG community.”  

About Bounteous X Accolite: 

Bounteous x Accolite makes the future faster for the world’s most ambitious brands. Our services span Strategy, Analytics, Digital Engineering, Cloud, Data  & AI, Experience Design, and Marketing. We are guided by Co-Innovation, our proven methodology of collaborative partnership. Bounteous x Accolite brings together 5,000+ employees spanning North America, APAC, and EMEA, and partnerships with leading technology  providers. Through advanced digital engineering, technology solutions, and data-driven digital experiences, we create exceptional and efficient business impact and help our clients win. 

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Marks Women's Equality Day With Renewed Commitment To Gender Equality And Empowerment

In recognition of Women's Equality Day on August 26th, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) reaffirms its steadfast commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women within its workforce and beyond. Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), TKM has initiated a series of transformative measures aimed at fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

As part of its long-term vision, TKM has set a target to increase the representation of women in its workforce to 30% by 2030. To achieve this, TKM has implemented a series of robust Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including the formation of a focussed senior level team dedicated to DEI, extensive benchmarking across industries and aligning with the International Labour Organization’s 2030 agenda of creating greater opportunities for women.

On March 13, 2024, TKM celebrated a significant milestone with the capping ceremony of its first batch of 55 women supervisors, along with the induction of 160 new female team members, raising the total number of women in the company to over 450, with plans to reach 850+ by the end of the year. TKM has also introduced a Gender Diversity Standard Operating Procedure Manual, detailing best practices for promoting gender diversity. These efforts, including unconscious bias surveys and the "Samvardhana" sensitization program, underscore TKM's holistic approach to creating a supportive, inclusive ecosystem that not only empowers women but also enhances the overall quality and competitiveness of its workforce.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. G. Shankara - Executive Vice President, Finance and Administration, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe that gender equality is not just a goal, but a critical driver of our success and sustainability. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace is deeply embedded in our organizational values, and we are proud to be making significant strides in empowering women within our workforce. By setting ambitious targets and investing in the necessary infrastructure and training programs, we are not only enhancing gender diversity but also creating a work environment where every individual can thrive. As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day, we reaffirm our dedication to creating equal opportunities and paving the way for a more equitable future for all.”

TKM’s commitment to gender diversity is further exemplified by the expansion of its training programs. The three-year residential course at Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) now has its intake doubled to 1200 students, with up to 600 female students, while the Toyota Kaushalya program offers a two-year training program for rural and economically disadvantaged students. To support this initiative, TKM has made significant infrastructure investments, including the construction of a new dormitory at Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) to accommodate 600 female students, and the enhancement of safety features and facilities such as upgraded restrooms and locker rooms.

As TKM marks Women’s Equality Day, the company reaffirms its commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women. This vision extends beyond the organization’s boundaries, encompassing the entire value chain and society at large. TKM believes that diversity and inclusion are not only corporate responsibilities but also societal benefits that contribute to the development of world-class talent and mass happiness. TKM remains dedicated to supporting the professional development and advancement of women through targeted initiatives and programs, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to thrive in their careers.

AJAX Engineering Appoints Mr. Gautam Eunny As Chief Marketing Officer

AJAX Engineering, India's premier concreting equipment manufacturer, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Gautam Eunny as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). With an experience spanning 25 years across multiple domains such as Business Development, Strategy, Operations, B2B Sales & Marketing, Gautam brings a wealth of expertise and experience to AJAX Engineering.

Gautam’s professional journey includes notable tenures at Pidilite Industries, Lafarge India, and Larsen & Toubro, where he has consistently driven business growth and strategic initiatives. Prior to joining AJAX, he was associated with Pidilite Industries as the Senior Vice President, Large User Business.

In his new role at AJAX Engineering, Gautam will be responsible for spearheading marketing strategies, driving business development, and enhancing the company's market presence. His comprehensive understanding of the industry, coupled with robust management skills, positions him as a valuable asset to the leadership team.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Shubhabrata Saha, Managing Director and CEO at AJAX Engineering, said, “We are glad to welcome Gautam to our executive leadership team. His exceptional track record in strengthening brand presence and innovative approach to market dynamics will be pivotal as we navigate our next phase of growth. Gautam's strategic insights and leadership expertise will significantly enhance our customer engagement and help drive operational excellence.”

Mr. Joseph Peeris, Chief People Officer & Corporate Affairs at Ajax Engineering, added, “Gautam's exceptional track record and his exposure to markets makes him a valuable addition to our leadership team. We are confident that his leadership will drive our marketing efforts to new heights.”

Expressing his enthusiasm on the appointment, Gautam Eunny commented, “I am honored to join AJAX Engineering and look forward to contributing to its success. With a commitment to cultivating a culture of innovation and growth, I look forward to work alongside a highly talented and dedicated team to drive ahead market strategies and enhance our brand presence. Together, we will focus on leveraging cutting-edge marketing techniques and insights to unlock new opportunities and elevate AJAX’s position in the industry.”

With Gautam’s extensive experience and strategic vision, AJAX Engineering is poised to embark on a new growth trajectory. His appointment underscores the company's commitment to driving innovation, expanding its market footprint, and delivering exceptional value to stakeholders. As AJAX Engineering continues to lead the industry with cutting-edge solutions, Gautam's leadership is expected to accelerate the company's growth trajectory and reinforce its position as a global leader in concreting equipment manufacturing.

Shorthills AI Studio Now Available In The Microsoft Azure Marketplace

* Microsoft Azure customers worldwide now gain access to Shorthills AI Studio to take advantage of the scalability, reliability, and agility of Azure to drive application development and shape business strategies.

Shorthills AI, today announced the availability of Shorthills AI Studio in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, an online store providing applications and services for use on Azure. Shorthills AI customers can now take advantage of the productive and trusted Azure cloud platform, with streamlined deployment and management.

Shorthills Al Studio modules like DocLens, Chatscribe, and BidCortex extract structured data from unstructured language documents to help you quickly unlock value from your existing data lake thereby generating a higher return on investment. These AI-powered modules can accelerate your AI/ML adoption journey.

“We are excited to bring Shorthills AI Studio to the Microsoft Azure Marketplace,” said Paramdeep Singh, Co-Founder, Shorthills AI. “By leveraging Azure's robust infrastructure and global reach, we can now offer our AI-powered solutions to a broader customer base. This partnership empowers businesses to unlock the full potential of their data, drive innovation, and achieve tangible business outcomes.”

Jake Zborowski, General Manager, Microsoft Azure Platform at Microsoft Corp., said, “We welcome Shorthills AI to Azure Marketplace, where global customers can find, try, and buy from among thousands of partner solutions. Thanks to trusted partners like Shorthills AI, Azure Marketplace is part of a cloud marketplace landscape predicted to grow revenue 500% from 2022 to 2025.”

The Azure Marketplace is an online market for buying and selling cloud solutions certified to run on Azure. The Azure Marketplace helps connect companies seeking innovative, cloud-based solutions with partners who have developed solutions that are ready to use. Learn more about Shorthills AI and get it now by visiting its page in the Azure Marketplace.

About Shorthills AI:

Based out of Shorthills (NJ, USA) and Gurugram (India), Shorthills AI builds generative AI based search products and solutions for enterprises. Shorthills AI Studio helps enterprises unlock the value in their data lake. These modules generate insights and create opportunities for up-sell/ cross-sell, optimize cash cycle, and improve customer experience. Shorthills AI is a one stop solution for GenAI consultancy, data engineering, model selection, data modelling as well as model fine-tuning. It is also one of the largest global contributors in open-source frameworks like LangChain, LlamaIndex etc. Besides being part of the first ever cohort of NASSCOM - GenAI Foundry, Shorthills AI is also NVIDIA Inception Partner and part of Microsoft Founder's Hub.

Fastrack Smart Unveils The Next Evolution In Style: The Bold & Fashion-Forward Metal Series

Fastrack Smart, India’s leading fashion-tech brand for youth, introduces the Metal Series, a new range of metallic, stylish and technologically advanced smartwatches. Designed specifically for the young India, this dynamic new collection seamlessly blends quality design, affordability with cutting-edge features, setting a new benchmark for the category.

Hailing from the House of Titan, Fastrack has consistently defined fashion-forward timepieces for India's youth. The Metal Series is a testament to this legacy, blending premium metallic aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. This collection is a perfect embodiment of Fastrack's DNA – delivering style and substance in perfect harmony. Inspired by Fastrack's stainless-steel watches, this smartwatch collection is crafted from premium-grade metal and features a stainless-steel strap. The products have also gone through multiple rigorous testing process to make sure the steel quality is durable and long lasting.

Speaking on the launch of The Metal Series, Adithya Raj, Head Sales & Marketing – Wearables, Titan Company Ltd. said, "Fastrack Smart has redefined youth fashion with its unique blend of style and technology. The Metal Series is a testament to our commitment to delivering trendsetting products that resonate with the aspirations of Gen Z. We believe this collection will not only elevate the smartwatch category but also become a coveted accessory for the modern youth. At Fastrack Smart, we're committed to staying at the forefront of wearable technology, delivering the trendiest designs with the smartest features, all at an accessible price point. We can't wait to see how the youth rocks the Metal Series!"

The Fastrack Smart Metal Series is a technological powerhouse designed to seamlessly integrate into your dynamic lifestyle.

*        Premium Design Meets Advanced Technology: Crafted with precision, the Metal Series boasts a premium metallic build and durable stainless-steel straps, ensuring a perfect blend of style and durability. Powering this exceptional performance is an advanced chipset, delivering seamless functionality and efficient energy management.

*        Stay Connected, Your Way: Experience unparalleled convenience with SingleSync BT calling, allowing you to effortlessly manage calls and messages without reaching for your phone.

*        Brilliance in Display: Feature stunning AMOLED displays, immersive UI experience and enhanced clarity for an enhanced user experience the products come with next-gen sensor customized for Fastrack Smart smartwatches.

These elements combine to create a smartwatch that not only looks good but also performs exceptionally, making the Fastrack Smart Metal Series the ultimate accessory. The campaign, ‘Designed to Flex,’ is crafted to highlight the fashion and utility that complement the evolving style statement sought by our country’s youth.

The Fastrack Smart Metal series will be available at Titan World, Fastrack Stores, Shopper Stop, Lifestyle, Pai International and other authorized multi-brand retail outlets & mobile doors. For online buyers it will be available at fastrack.in, Amazon & Flipkart.

Dynatrace Ranked #1 Across Three Of Five Use Cases In The 2024 Gartner® Critical Capabilities For Observability Platforms Report

* Dynatrace also named a Leader and positioned furthest for Vision and highest in Execution in the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant™ for Observability Platforms

Dynatrace (NYSE: DT), the leader in end-to-end observability and security, announced its platform ranked #1 in three of five Use Cases in the 2024 Gartner Critical Capabilities for Observability Platforms report. Gartner evaluated 17 vendors and positioned Dynatrace highest in the following Use Cases: Application Health and Performance Monitoring (4.27/5), Hybrid Infrastructure Platform Operations (4.25/5), and Business Insights (4.22/5). This report accompanies the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Observability Platforms, which named Dynatrace a Leader and positioned the company furthest for Completeness of Vision and highest for Ability to Execute.

“Advanced AI-powered observability and security, analytics, and automation have become mandatory to harness the complexity generated by modern digital ecosystems,” said Steve Tack, EVP, Chief Product Officer at Dynatrace. “The Dynatrace platform was purpose-built to allow teams to turn the unprecedented volumes of diverse data across their cloud-native architectures into real-time, contextually relevant insights that IT, development, security, and business teams understand. We’re honored to be recognized by Gartner, and we’re committed to continually enabling the business transformation initiatives of the world’s most successful companies.”

Gartner recommends that organizations view the Magic Quadrant and the companion Critical Capabilities together to gain a holistic view of the vendors in the observability market. Complimentary copies of the 2024 Gartner Critical Capabilities for Observability Platforms report and the 2024 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Observability Platforms are available on the Dynatrace website.

India’s Future International Champions: 5 Emerging Women Athletes Of India

As India advances on the global sports stage, a new generation of female athletes is emerging, poised to become the nation's next sports icons. This exciting transformation is supported by the Anju Bobby Sports Foundation and Anandana- The Coca-Cola India Foundation which are dedicated to nurturing and empowering young talent. Through substantial funding and support, including state-of-the-art facilities for professional training, these athletes are breaking records and inspiring future generations.

Here’s a closer look at five women athletes to watch:

1. Shaili Singh 

Shaili Singh has been making waves in Indian athletics. In 2018, at just 14 years old, she joined the Junior India Camp in the long jump and began training under Dronacharya Robert Bobby George, supported by the Sports Authority of India and the Anju Bobby Sports Foundation. Shaili holds national records in the U-16 (6.15 m), U-18 (6.48 m), and U-20 (6.76 m) categories. She earned a silver medal at the Junior World Athletics Championships in 2021 and another silver at the Asian Championships in 2023, marking her as a formidable competitor on the international stage. 

In October 2023, she achieved a world ranking of 22 but narrowly missed the entry for the Paris Olympics 2024 in the World Ranking quota by just 11 points. Shaili won gold at the Indian Grand Prix in April 2023 with a personal best jump of 6.76 meters—the second-best by an Indian woman. In the same year, she secured a bronze in the World Athletics Seiko Grand Prix held in Yokohama, Japan, and also participated in the Asian Indoor Championships, the Budapest World Athletics Championships, and the Hangzhou Asian Games. In 2024, participated in six World Athletics Continental Tour bronze/international meets, where she secured two silvers and one bronze. 

Shaili is poised to carry forward India’s long jump legacy and is expected to break the national record of 6.83 meters set by Anju Bobby George at the Athens Olympics in 2004.  

2. Poorva Hitesh Sawant  

Poorva Hitesh Sawant is known for her explosive speed and strength. Her journey began at the age of seven, and since then, she has explored various events, including the long jump and heptathlon, before discovering her passion for the triple jump in 2021. After moving to Bangalore in 2022 to train under the guidance of Robert Bobby George, Poorva’s dedication has led to remarkable achievements. She finished 4th at the Asian Indoor Championship in 2023 with a jump of 13.06 meters, won gold in the National Federation Cup in 2023, and clinched gold at the 3rd Indian Open Jumps Competition and Indian Grand Prix in 2024. With a personal best of 13.31 meters, she is expected to become a strong competitor at the international level. 

3. Ravada Kusuma  

Ravada Kusuma, a talented long jumper from Andhra Pradesh, has faced her fair share of ups and downs throughout her athletic career, including injuries and fluctuations in performance at national competitions. In 2023, her hard work finally paid off as she won gold in the U-23 National Championship and silver in the All India Inter University Championship. In 2024, she secured gold in the Khelo India University Games, marking a significant turning point in her athletic career. After joining the National Junior Camp in 2017, the support from the Anju Bobby Sports Foundation provided her access to quality coaching, training facilities, and nutrition. With a personal best of 6.14 meters, Kusuma's immense potential suggests she has yet to achieve her best.  

4. Namayi Ruchitha 

Namayi Ruchitha is a rising star in athletics, showcasing her talent on the track. In 2022, she won gold at the U-20 National Athletics Championship in the 100-meter hurdles and silver at the Khelo India University Games. In 2023, she secured silver in the Junior National Athletic Championship, and in 2024, she clinched gold again at the Khelo India University Games. With a personal best time of 14.28 seconds in the 100-meter hurdles, Namayi is a versatile and promising athlete to watch in future championships. The support from the foundation has allowed her to concentrate on her training and set ambitious goals, such as breaking the 14-second barrier in her events.  

5. Susmita 

Susmita’s journey hasn’t been easy; she has faced numerous challenges but her resolve to overcome these obstacles has been inspiring. Susmita draws strength from her family and her coach, Robert Bobby George, who motivates her to keep pushing forward. Her impressive achievements include earning silver at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships in 2023, gold at the Khelo India Youth Games in 2022, gold in the U20 National Athletic Championship in 2023, and a bronze at both the Indian Grand Prix and the Indian Open Jumps Meet in 2024, with a personal best of 6.28 meters. As she continues to rise, Susmita is emerging as a strong contender for future sports glory in the long jump. 

Conclusion

These five young athletes, supported by Anju Bobby Sports Foundation and Anandana- The Coca-Cola India Foundation, are setting the stage for India’s future sports success. As they train, compete, and break barriers, the nation watches in anticipation, ready to cheer them on as they reach the pinnacle of sporting excellence and represent India with pride and passion.   

PhonePe Enables Credit Line On UPI On Its Platform

*     Consumers can now link their pre-approved credit line to UPI on PhonePe and use it to make payments across millions of merchants

*     This also provides businesses an added avenue for customer payments and reduces drop offs

PhonePe today announced the launch of Credit Line on UPI on its platform. Consumers who avail credit lines from their banks can now link these credit lines to UPI on PhonePe and seamlessly make merchant payments. This feature enables consumers to make purchases with ease across millions of merchants and avail the flexibility of short-term credit that helps them manage their monthly expenses better.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently expanded the scope of UPI to include pre-approved credit lines, called ‘Credit Line on UPI’, allowing consumers to avail credit lines through banks and  use these through their UPI apps. This will further help exponentially increase the number of merchants where credit lines can be utilised.

Along with consumers, the option also allows merchants on the PhonePe Payment Gateway (PG), to offer their customers an additional payment option at the time of checkout. This not only reduces friction but also lowers cart abandonment leading to higher sales. Merchants simply need to integrate with PhonePe PG to add ‘Credit Line on UPI’ as a payment option to enable this offering.

Commenting on the launch Deep Agrawal, Head of Payments at PhonePe said “We are excited to launch Credit Line on UPI on our platform. This is the second offering that will unlock the potential of credit usage on UPI, following the tremendous success of Rupay Credit Cards on UPI. We believe digital payments in India is growing strength to strength and PhonePe is committed to providing the most innovative and best-in-class solutions to our customers. This offering will revolutionise the access and use of credit in the country and we are focussed on offering a varied set of new use cases in close partnership with the ecosystem players.”

Credit line on UPI rides on the same UPI rails that millions of Indians are familiar with. Here’s how users can avail it:

Users can link their Credit Line on UPI by clicking on the profile section on the top left of the PhonePe app home page and select the bank from which they availed the Credit Line.

The Credit Line associated with their registered phone number will  be linked on UPI upon clicking on the bank.

After linking, the user will be required to set a UPI PIN

Once this is done, the Credit Line option will show up as a payment instrument on the payment page while the user is making a payment.

About PhonePe Group:

PhonePe Group is India’s leading fintech company. Its flagship product, the PhonePe digital payments app, was launched in Aug 2016. In just 7 years, the company has scaled rapidly to become India’s leading consumer payments app with 550+ million registered users and a digital payments acceptance network of 40+ million merchants. PhonePe also processes over 270 million daily transactions with an annualised Total Payment Value (TPV) of USD 1.5+ Trillion.

On the back of its leadership in digital payments, PhonePe Group has expanded into financial services (Insurance, Lending, Wealth) as well as new consumer tech businesses (Pincode - hyperlocal e-commerce and Indus App Store - India's first localised App Store). PhonePe Group is an India headquartered technology company with 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.

Samsung Brings Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification To Galaxy Watches In India

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the rollout of Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification (IHRN) feature on the Samsung Health Monitor app for Galaxy Watches. The new feature, combined with the app’s existing Blood Pressure and Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring capabilities, helps detect heart rhythms suggestive of atrial fibrillation (AFib), offering Galaxy Watch users a more comprehensive understanding of their heart health.

Once activated in the Samsung Health Monitor app, the IHRN feature continuously checks for irregular heart rhythms in the background using the Galaxy Watch’s BioActive Sensor. If a certain number of consecutive measurements are irregular, Galaxy Watch warns the user of potential AFib activity, prompting them to take an ECG using their watch for a more accurate measurement. With the existing Blood Pressure and Heart Rate monitoring, this new feature provides users with even deeper insights into their cardiovascular health.

Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and AFib — a type of arrhythmia — is widely considered a warning sign for major cardiovascular issues including an increased risk of stroke, heart failure and other complications. Moreover, many cases of AFib are asymptomatic or even silent, leaving people unaware of their risk.

With the addition of the IHRN feature, Galaxy Watch users can now monitor other crucial aspects of their heart health. Equipped with Samsung’s BioActive Sensor, it offers tools to help users better understand their heart health, including on-demand ECG recording and an HR Alert function that detects abnormally high or low heart rates.

The Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification feature is now available as part of the newly launched Galaxy Watch7 Ultra, Galaxy Watch7 as well as on Galaxy Watch6, Watch5 and Watch4 series.

Galaxy Watch users can simply update the Samsung Health Monitor app on their devices via Galaxy Store and then enable the IHRN feature from the settings menu on the app.

Gameskraft Foundation And Inspire Institute Of Sport Unveil ‘Mere Kadmon Ke Peechhe’

* A Tribute to the Unsung Heroes Behind India's Sporting Success

Gameskraft Foundation, the social arm of leading skill-based online games company Gameskraft, in partnership with the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), proudly launches ‘Mere Kadmon Ke Peechhe’. This evocative film celebrates the unsung heroes—the support systems behind some of India’s most promising track and field athletes.

The film offers a glimpse into the lives of 16 track and field athletes from IIS, including iconic figures such as Neeraj Chopra (Men’s Javelin Throw), Parul Chaudhary (Women’s 5000m and 3000m Steeplechase), Avinash Sable (Men’s 3000m Steeplechase), and Praveen Chithravel (Men’s Triple Jump), who are all supported at the ‘Gameskraft Foundation Athletics Centre of Excellence’. By showcasing their journey, the campaign seeks to inspire a new generation of athletes and spotlight the collective effort required to achieve greatness.

The campaign goes beyond the athletes themselves, shedding light on the crucial contributions of coaches, physiotherapists, nutritionists, sports scientists, and the unwavering encouragement from family and friends. ‘Mere Kadmon Ke Peechhe’ beautifully captures the essence of teamwork and dedication, reminding us that behind every medal is a village of supporters who make success possible.

Rishi Wadhera, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at Gameskraft, said, “Our shared vision with IIS focuses on nurturing athletic talent and further building the sports ecosystem in India. ‘Mere Kadmon Ke Peechhe’ is a tribute to the collective tireless dedication, resilience, and unseen efforts of the support group that fuels every athlete's pursuit of excellence. We hope this film resonates with all; athletes, and all those who stand behind them - coaches, sports scientists, physiotherapists, nutritionists, friends, family and more.”

Rushdee Warley, CEO of Inspire Institute of Sport, further added, “At IIS, we are committed to nurturing talent and providing our athletes with world-class resources - sports coaches, physiotherapists, nutritionists,etc. This campaign is not just about the athletes, but also the collaborative spirit that drives them to excel. We are grateful to the Gameskraft Foundation for their tremendous support in this journey.”

Produced by Fat Rabbit Productions, the film is a heartfelt ode to the power of community and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The ‘Mere Kadmon Ke Peechhe’ campaign underscores Gameskraft Foundation’s mission to uplift and empower the sports ecosystem in India, reinforcing its commitment to fostering talent and celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship.

The campaign film is now live on the Gameskraft official Instagram and LinkedIn pages. It is also available on the Inspire Institute of Sport’s official YouTube channel. Watch it here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-9gwMhyVZh/

About Gameskraft Foundation

Gameskraft Foundation is the social arm of the leading online skill-based games company Gameskraft Technologies Pvt Ltd. The foundation engages with communities at a grassroots level to transform lives and create a positive impact, powering ambitions and realising hopes through its efforts.

About IIS

Inspire Institute of Sport is India’s first privately funded high-performance training centre that trains talented young athletes across five Olympic Disciplines - Wrestling, Boxing, Judo, Athletics and Swimming. Spread over 42 acres in Vijayanagar, Karnataka, IIS is a unique initiative led by the JSW Group that brings together 30+ corporate donors who are collectively funding the operations of the institute through CSR funding. Led by an Advisory Board comprising senior Indian sporting legends like Abhinav Bindra, Sourav Ganguly, Mahesh Bhupathi and high-performance expert Dr Tom Patrick, IIS offers 500+ talented young athletes’ full scholarships in a completely residential, world-class training environment. Visit us at https://www.inspireinstituteofsport.com/

Birla Fertility & IVF further Expands Its Network To 50 Clinics By Acquiring BabyScience IVF

Birla Fertility & IVF, India’s third-largest IVF network and a part of the USD 3 billion CK Birla Group, announced the acquisition of 12 BabyScience IVF Clinics, marking its entry into Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. BFI will now manage 50 clinics nationwide. The acquisition is a key component of Birla Fertility & IVF's strategic expansion plan, with a continued investment of over Rs 500 crore.

Speaking on this second acquisition within 3 months of acquiring ARMC IVF chain in Kerala, Avanti Birla, Chairman and Founder, Birla Fertility & IVF, said, "At Birla Fertility & IVF, we bring care into the science of conception. It’s something I’m very passionate about—creating access for more couples and women. We focus on tailoring treatments to individual patient needs, which includes advanced diagnostic testing and data-driven precision medicine to optimize outcomes. Fertility preservation, egg freezing, and embryo freezing are also key to what we do, allowing women to choose when to start a family. We ensure that fertility specialists, andrologists, and counsellors come together to support our patients both physically and emotionally. We have renowned global doctors and leading fertility specialists as our advisors, and we partner with global institutions to ensure couples have access to cutting-edge solutions in their parenthood journey. We are delighted to partner with BabyScience IVF clinics. They have consistently demonstrated excellence in the field of fertility care.”

Speaking on the occasion, Abhishek Aggrawal, Chief Business Officer, Birla Fertility & IVF, stated, "We have expanded across India, to leverage our global expertise and state-of-the-art infrastructure and deliver exceptional pregnancy rates that meet international standards. Our comprehensive range of services includes gynaecological procedures, male fertility treatments, laparoscopic procedures, genetic screening, diagnostics, and donor services." 

Dr. Manjunath CS, Founder of BabyScience, said, “We are excited to join this strong national brand, so that our patients will continue to benefit from the best science in the industry, and we look forward to operational enhancements as we continue to grow in Karnataka Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu as part of Birla Fertility & IVF.”

Commenting on this strategic move, Akshat Seth, Vice Chairman, C K Birla Healthcare, said, “With this step, Birla Fertility & IVF aims to raise awareness and provide reliable fertility treatments, strengthening our presence in the South. With BabyScience, we have found a like-minded partner who has a similar care model.”

In a country where 28 million couples face fertility-related challenges, and less than 1% seek assistance, Birla Fertility & IVF aims to raise awareness. With this acquisition, Birla Fertility & IVF has a combined experience of over 120,000 IVF cycles and has treated more than 230,000 patients.

Photo Caption:  Dr. Manjunath CS, Founder of BabyScience and Abhishek Aggrawal, Chief Business Officer, Birla Fertility & IVF at the press conference to announce the acquisition of 12 BabyScience IVF Clinics, marking its entry into Karnataka.

nasscom Strengthens India-Malaysia Tech Ties With Strategic MoUs With MDEC And PIKOM

In a significant move aimed at fostering stronger, sustained, and long-term business engagements between the Malaysian digital ecosystem and the Indian tech industry, nasscom has announced the signing of two pivotal Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with the National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM) and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). The MoU signing coincided with the state visit of Prime Minister of Malaysia, H.E. Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim.

The MoU signing ceremony was honored by the presence of H.E. Gobind Singh Deo, Hon Minister for Digital, Malaysia whose leadership plays a pivotal role in advancing this bilateral cooperation. Alongside him were key industry figures, including Mr. Rajesh Nambiar, President Designate of nasscom, Mr. YB Tuan Syed Ibrahim Chairman of MDEC, and Mr. Ong Chin Seong Chairman of PIKOM, all marking a significant milestone in the partnership between our two nations.

These strategic MoUs are set to enhance awareness of the Malaysian technology landscape among Indian companies, facilitate bilateral trade and investment opportunities, and provide essential market access support. Key initiatives include business matching platforms, networking sessions, and dialogues aimed at creating significant market opportunities for both nations.

As part of the MoU with MDEC, the collaboration will focus on:

Joint promotional activities for the purpose of awareness building on Malaysian tech eco-system and promotion of its digital eco-system.

Help Malaysian Tech companies in comprehending the India market opportunity via knowledge sharing, research reports and networking with Indian Tech companies to explore partnership and Joint go-to-market activities/collaborations.

Facilitating engagements on talent development for exchange of ideas and best practices and building greater familiarity of each other’s talent ecosystem.

To invite nasscom to join any of MDEC sectorial committees/ network with the aim to promote technology trade between India and Malaysia.

Provide market access to Indian tech companies in Malaysia by assisting in work visa applications (MTEP & DE Rantau), support nasscom and its member companies for high skilled worker mobility and other policy bottleneck and ensure ease of doing business for promoting Malaysia as a strong investment destination in the larger Asia-Pacific (“APAC”) region.

The MoU with PIKOM reflects a mutual desire to establish a collaborative relationship that will nurture the growth of trade in technology between India and Malaysia. The key areas of focus include:

Facilitating mutual exchange of information on Indian and Malaysian Tech industry landscape, recent shifts, challenges and potential for growth.

Organizing and supporting events, both virtual and in-person, to promote greater collaboration between the Malaysian and Indian technology companies.

Inviting subject matter experts from industry, but not limited to the technology industry, for sharing case studies and advisory on growth strategies, do’s and don’ts etc.

Organizing and supporting networking opportunities between Indian and Malaysian IT companies for the purpose of collaboration, R&D, and joint go to market.

Creating Special Interest Group to channelize joint industry positioning for the Malaysian market with the purpose of enabling Ease of Doing Business. 

Speaking on the occasion, Rajesh Nambiar, President Designate at nasscom, stated, “These MoUs signify a new chapter in the relationship between the Indian and Malaysian tech industries. We are committed to deepening this collaboration, which will not only enhance market opportunities for both nations but also drive innovation and growth in the region.”

“We are thrilled to strengthen our cooperation with nasscom through this MoU. Just as the relationship between Malaysia and India has evolved over the years, we aspire to grow this to a stronger comprehensive strategic partnership. Through knowledge sharing and joint initiatives, we aim to create a more vibrant and interconnected ecosystem”, added Ong Chin Seong during the signing ceremony.

The MoUs are expected to catalyze significant advancements in technology trade between India and Malaysia, paving the way for a stronger digital economy partnership in the years to come.

About nasscom

nasscom represents the voice of over $250 billion technology industry in India with the vision to establish the nation as the world’s leading technology ecosystem. Boasting a diverse and influential community of over 3000 member companies our network spans the entire spectrum of the industry from DeepTech and AI start-ups to multinationals and from products to services, Global Capability Centres to Engineering firms. Guided by our vision, our strategic imperatives are to accelerate skilling at scale for future-ready talent, strengthen the innovation quotient across industry verticals, create new market opportunities - both international and domestic, drive policy advocacy to advance innovation and ease of doing business, and build the industry narrative with a focus on Trust, and Innovation. And, in everything we do, we will continue to champion the need for diversity and equal opportunity.

For more details visit our website https://nasscom.in/ or write to us at: comms@nasscom.in

About PIKOM

PIKOM, THE NATIONAL TECH ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA, is the association representing the technology industry in Malaysia. Formed in 1986, its membership currently stands at more than 1,000 active companies involved in a whole spectrum of digital TECH products and services, which command 80% of the National Digital Economy.

There are 8 Chapters under PIKOM: GBS Malaysia; CIO; Cybersecurity; E-Commerce; Venture Investment; SpaceTech, Women in Tech and Digital Infrastructure  These chapters help improve and drive the business climate for all member companies, together with promoting industry growth in line with national aspirations.

As the Voice of the Tech Industry, PIKOM embraces the task of growing the size and capabilities of the tech industry in Malaysia by creating opportunities for its members as well as all Malaysians to capture the benefits offered by advances in technology. For more information, visit www.pikom.org.my.

Kisanserv’s 250-Store Expansion to Create 6,000 Jobs, Empowering Local Communities And Women

* The expansion aims to generate 2,000 direct and up to 5,000 indirect jobs, with a strong focus on hiring locally and prioritizing female employment. Future plans include scaling to 1,000 stores in key cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai-

Kisanserv, a rapidly growing bootstrapped retail company specializing in fresh fruits and vegetables, is ambitiously targeting a revenue milestone of ?500 crore within the next four years. Established in 2019, Kisanserv has quickly carved out a niche in India’s traditional fruits and vegetables market by combining operational efficiency, direct farmer partnerships, and an innovative hybrid retail model.

Kisanserv’s journey began by catering to quick-commerce companies, which provided a platform to test and refine its supply chain processes. With a solid foundation in place, Kisanserv opened its first retail store in January 2023. In just 16 months, the company expanded to 22 stores across Pune and Mumbai, achieving profitability in each location without investing in marketing or social media promotion. This organic growth has set the stage for an ambitious expansion to 250 stores, with a revenue target of ?500 crore over the next three years—a significant leap from the current ?35 crore revenue reported for the most recent fiscal year.

As Kisanserv expands to 250 stores, it expects to create 2,000 direct jobs and 4,000-5,000 indirect jobs, focusing on hiring from local communities and prioritizing female staff. Following this initial phase of expansion, the company plans to scale up to 1,000 stores, entering new markets such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai.

“Our success so far is a testament to our commitment to transparency, sustainability, and customer satisfaction,” said Niranjan Sharma, CEO of Kisanserv. “By eliminating middlemen, we’ve been able to offer fresher produce at significantly lower prices while ensuring that farmers receive more than double their traditional earnings. This approach not only empowers farmers but also delivers exceptional value to our customers.”

Kisanserv’s strategy of focusing on quality, service, and operational excellence is already yielding results. The company currently generates ?41,000 per square foot per year—significantly higher than the ?31,000 achieved by other top grocery retailers. With the planned expansion, Kisanserv aims to increase this figure to ?65,000 per square foot per year.

Kisanserv’s hybrid retail model has resonated strongly with urban customers. The company operates neighborhood convenience stores, each approximately 300 square feet, while also offering a robust online shopping experience through the Kisanserv Express app. This model allows customers to shop in-store or order online, with home delivery promised within 20-30 minutes at no additional cost. Currently, 70% of Kisanserv’s revenue comes from in-store sales, with online transactions contributing 30%. This balance reflects the company’s ability to cater to diverse consumer preferences, whether they prefer the traditional “touch, feel, and buy” experience or the convenience of online shopping.

“We’ve nearly perfected our business model, and now we’re ready to scale rapidly,” added Sharma. “Our focus on operational efficiency, combined with our commitment to quality and customer service, positions us to capture a significant share of the ?160 billion fruits and vegetables market in India, where 90% is still dominated by local Kirana stores.”

A key differentiator for Kisanserv is its in-house technology, which drives operational efficiency. The company has developed a custom ERP system that provides real-time visibility into demand, procurement, supply chain logistics, and product availability across all its stores. This technology has enabled Kisanserv to achieve an impressive inventory turnover of 1-2 days, ensuring product freshness and keeping wastage to a minimum—4-5% in stores and just 4% in the supply chain.

In a highly competitive market, Kisanserv distinguishes itself from both traditional Sabjiwalas and heavily funded e-commerce companies with a unique value proposition. By sourcing directly from farms, Kisanserv ensures superior quality produce with less handling and longer shelf life. Despite offering higher quality, Kisanserv’s prices are 10-15% lower than those of local shops and 20-25% lower than online retail competitors. Additionally, Kisanserv’s stores maintain strict hygiene standards, avoiding practices like splashing water on vegetables and selling nearly 100% of their produce in packed form, ensuring food safety.

Kisanserv’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its supply chain practices. Through its "Giving Back to Soil" initiative, the company distributes compost to farmers, encouraging the use of natural fertilizers and reducing the chemical load in produce. This initiative not only promotes environmental sustainability but also strengthens the company’s relationships with farmers, further supporting local communities.

Looking ahead, Kisanserv is exploring the introduction of self-checkout systems in its stores to enhance the shopping experience by making it quicker and more convenient. Additionally, the company plans to launch fresh cold-pressed fruit and vegetable juices, aligning with current consumer trends toward health and wellness.

Kisanserv’s journey from a bootstrapped startup to a company on the brink of achieving ?500 crore in revenue is a story of innovation, dedication, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the entire supply chain. As the company continues to grow, its focus on transparency, sustainability, and community engagement will remain at the forefront, ensuring that Kisanserv not only succeeds as a business but also contributes to a healthier, more equitable food system.

Air India Adds Flights To Kolkata From Bengaluru And Hyderabad For Nearly A Month

·         Temporary additional flights to Kolkata from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad

Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced it will temporarily operate additional flights to Kolkata from four Indian cities to meet greater travel demand to the city during the upcoming Durga Puja festivities.

Starting 20 September 2024, Air India will operate daily, non-stop flights to Kolkata from Bengaluru and Hyderabad for nearly a month.

The airline has also increased frequency to Kolkata from Delhi effective 15 August 2024, and from Mumbai effective 25 September 2024. 

With these additions, Air India will increase frequency on the Delhi-Kolkata route from 28x weekly to 35x weekly flights, and on the Mumbai-Kolkata route from 21x weekly to 28x weekly.

The added flights will operate at convenient times, providing greater choice and ease to travellers who plan to visit their loved ones during the joyous festive season. Air India’s flights to/from Kolkata are also conveniently timed to enable seamless connections via its Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru hubs to/from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, as well as several countries in Europe and Southeast Asia.

Bookings for the new flights are being progressively opened on all channels, including Air India’s website, mobile app, and through travel agents.

About Air India

Founded by the legendary JRD Tata, Air India pioneered India’s aviation sector. Since its first flight on October 15, 1932, Air India has built an extensive domestic network with non-stop flights to cities around the world, across the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Far-East, South-East Asia, Australia, and the Gulf. After 69 years as a government-owned enterprise, Air India and Air India Express were welcomed back into the Tata group in January 2022.

Air India is navigating through a major five-year transformation roadmap under the aegis of Vihaan.AI, with an ambition to become a world class airline with an Indian heart. The first phase of this transformation, the taxi phase was recently concluded, and focused on fixing the basics. These included bringing back to service many long grounded aircraft, addition of talent across flying and ground functions, rapid upgradation of technology and strengthening of customer care initiatives amongst others.

A member of Star Alliance, the largest global airline consortium of leading international airlines, Air India offers seamless connectivity and facilities to passengers all over the world.

Socomec Greater India Appoints Amit Jain As Chief Financial Officer

Socomec, a global specialist in the availability, control, and safety of low voltage electrical energy, has announced the appointment of Amit Jain as the company’s new “Chief Financial Officer” for its Greater India operations. With a career spanning over 25 years, Amit Jain brings a wealth of experience in financial management, strategic planning, and transformation across diverse industries and geographies.

Amit Jain's professional journey includes global leadership roles at renowned organizations such as Vodafone, CPA Global, Timex, KPMG, and PWC, along with his involvement in dynamic startups and entrepreneurial ventures. His credentials as a Chartered Accountant and an Executive MBA from IIM Calcutta complement his extensive experience, making him a strategic addition to Socomec’s leadership team. Amit's business acumen and functional expertise uniquely position him to drive and lead the finance function with vision and precision.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Meenu Singhal, Regional Managing Director of Socomec, Greater India said, “We are glad to welcome Amit Jain to the Socomec family. His vast experience and proven track record in financial management and strategic leadership make him an invaluable addition to our team. Amit's expertise will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our financial foundation and pursue our growth ambition in the region."

Amit Jain also shared his thoughts on joining Socomec: “I’m honored to be part of the Socomec family and to join Meenu Singhal in continuing Socomec’s growth journey in the Greater India region. Our business priority is to expand our footprint in this region, and I believe finance can play a key role in this journey. The finance team will focus on supporting critical infrastructure developments within Socomec, empowering sales through strategic initiatives, and building strategies aimed at increasing the value we bring to our customers while ensuring sustained growth for Socomec.”

Amit Jain’s appointment reaffirm Socomec’s commitment to bringing in right talent to lead its financial strategy in a dynamic and competitive market. His leadership will be critical in ensuring the company continues to achieve its ambitious goals.

Vi Ramps Up Network Infrastructure To Enhance Data Speed And Coverage For Users In Karnataka

*  Upgraded the spectrum in the 2100 MHz band to double the network capacity in this layer

*  Acquired additional spectrum in the 900 MHz band through the recent auction in June 2024

Leading telecom operator Vi, today announced advancements in its network infrastructure across Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Tumakuru, to provide faster data speeds for users in these cities. In a press event in the city today, the company shared that it has doubled the capacity of its LTE 2100 MHz band by expanding from 5 MHz to 10 MHz to enable customers with faster network speed and improved internet browsing experiences.

Vi plans to further enhance its network by deploying recently acquired spectrum in the 900 MHz band across the state. This will be used to strengthen indoor coverage, especially in densely populated suburban and rural areas, ensuring improved connectivity and a better user experience. Reinforcing its commitment to Karnataka, Vi also announced a new service zone in Davanagere to broaden its distribution & service reach within the state. These efforts are part of Vi's commitment to provide superior connectivity and better customer experience across Karnataka, thus ensuring its users benefit from enhanced voice quality and faster data speeds on its best-ever network, Vi GIGAnet.

Vi’s network currently covers close to 85% of the population in Karnataka. Over the past two years, Vi has made upgrades to its core network in Karnataka, ensuring 5G readiness, enabling customers to utilize the benefits of e-SIM, enhancing VoLTE architecture, and rolling out VoWIFI to improve indoor voice services. The company has also expanded its retail presence in the state, with over 140 stores including Vi Stores, Vi Shops, and Vi Mini Stores and has an extensive distribution network in the state with approximately 360 distributors and close to 19,000 recharge outlets to ensure greater service and support for its customers.

Speaking on these developments at the event, Abhijit Kishore, Chief Operating Officer, Vi said: “Our objective is to deliver the best network experience to our customers by expanding 4G coverage and enhancing data speed. As customers demand better choices, we have built a digital ecosystem with our partners to offer a differentiated experience. The Vi App serves as a multi-utility platform by offering games, entertainment, cloud gaming, utility bill payments and more.”

The Vi App, a cornerstone of Vi’s digital offerings, provides users with access to over 400 live TV channels, Video on Demand (VoD) content, popular games like Free Fire and Call of Duty, and utility services such as bill payments for electricity, water, LPG, FASTAG recharges, and more.

Vi continues to innovate in meeting customer demands with offerings such as the Vi Hero Unlimited Plan, which provides unlimited night-time (12 am to 6 am) data, unlimited calling, data rollover, and streaming benefits with free OTT subscriptions. The company has also introduced the ‘Choose Your Benefits’ feature for postpaid customers, allowing them to tailor their plans according to their needs.

Some of its most recent offers include:

·         Vi Guarantee Program: Vi customers will get 130 GB of guaranteed extra data over one year, with 10 GB data credited automatically every 28 days for 13 consecutive recharge cycles after they opt in through Vi App. This offer is valid for Vi customers with 5G smartphones and who have recently upgraded to a new 4G smartphone on daily data unlimited pack of Rs. 299 or above. 

·         The renewed RED X Plan in postpaid at a monthly rental of Rs. 1201 provides unlimited data for non-stop surfing, streaming, and connectivity. It gives consumers the choice to subscribe to complimentary offers like Netflix basic plan, 6-month Swiggy One membership, 7-day International Roaming pack, along with Priority customer service across all Vi touchpoints.

·         Vi now offers access to Netflix with its two subscription plans priced at Rs. 1198 for 70 days and Rs 1599 for 84 days. These packs offer the special benefits of Hero Unlimited to consumers with the features of 12 am-6 am unlimited data, weekend data rollover and data delight.

·         With the growing consumer demands of bringing more entertainment at an affordable price for its users, Vi Movies & TV App now offers access up to 17 OTT platforms and 350 Live TV Channels in one single subscription. It has newly launched two new subscription plans - Vi Movies & TV Plus priced at Rs. 248 per month and Vi Movies & TV Lite priced at Rs. 154 per month.  

·         Given the popularity of OTT platforms, Vi is expanding its bundling plans. Currently, it offers OTT bundles with Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLiv, and SunNxt and more partnerships are in the pipeline. 

About Vodafone Idea Limited: 

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service provider. The company provides pan India Voice and Data services across 2G, 3G and 4G platforms. Company holds large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mm Wave 5G spectrum in 16 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the company is committed to deliver delightful customer experiences and contribute towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The company’s equity shares are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India. The company offers products and services to its customers in India under the TM Brand name “Vi”.  For more information, visit: www.MyVi.in

AIC Pinnacle Launches “EvolutioNari Women Entrepreneurs Program”, To Empower And Nurture The Entrepreneurial Spirit Of Women

AIC-Pinnacle Entrepreneurship Forum, a leading incubator supported by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) -NITI Aayog, Government of India, is excited to unveil “EvolutioNari Women Entrepreneurs Program”, its latest initiative designed to empower and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of women.

Launched by Pinnacle Industries in 2023, EvolutioNari has been instrumental in promoting gender diversity and fostering an inclusive workplace. This multifaceted program aims to support women at every stage of their career journey, offering them opportunities to re-enter the workforce, explore new business ventures, and advance their careers across various sectors.

Building on the success and positive impact of EvolutioNari, AIC-Pinnacle is proud to announce its own dedicated initiative exclusively for women entrepreneurs. Evolutionari Women Entrepreneurs Program (WEP) is a 6-month long incubation program, designed to further encourage and support female entrepreneurs by providing them with a unique opportunity to join a carefully curated cohort of 10 women entrepreneurs.

By creating a dedicated space for women entrepreneurs, AIC-Pinnacle seeks to build on the momentum of EvolutioNari WEP and extend its benefits to a broader group of women entrepreneurs. This program will have over 100 mentors spanning across various sectors and geographies. Mentors are allotted based on the need and requirement of the start-up.

Former ARAI director Rashmi Urdhwareshe; Cofounder and CTO at Railofy Hrishabh Sanghvi; Acuitas TechComm director Dr. Rijwan Pinjari; are some of the mentors who would be guiding the female business leaders in their entrepreneurial journey.

At AIC-Pinnacle, 3 women-led ventures - Krishigati Pvt Ltd, Serenum Products Pvt Ltd and Mommy Mills Foods Pvt Ltd. have already demonstrated remarkable potential and have benefited immensely from the incubator’s resources and expert guidance. These women led startups have received comprehensive support including mentoring, technical assistance, networking opportunities, and substantial funding comprising of grants from MeitY startup Hub, Atal Innovation Mission and Startup India Seed Fund (SISFS). 

“The goal of this program is to create a nurturing environment where women can excel, innovate, and lead as entrepreneurs. For our previous cohorts, we have been receiving applications from women entrepreneurs across diverse sectors. To increase the percentage of women entrepreneurs, the incubator focus is more towards generating viable and innovative ideas first. We are confident that if women entrepreneurs come up with such ideas, our dedicated team of incubation managers, acceleration managers and mentors can support to commercialize them”, said Mr. Sunil Dhadiwal, CEO of AIC-Pinnacle Entrepreneurship Forum.

EvolutioNari WEP will offer a comprehensive support system, including mentorship, networking opportunities, and resources tailored to the needs of women entrepreneurs. The program’s funding will be determined based on the ideas and needs presented by applicants, ensuring that each participant receives the necessary support to succeed and achieve their goals.

Sector Focus – EvolutioNari WEP is sector agnostic, open for all the sector preferably tech based.

Eligibility – any female entrepreneurs above 18 years of age is encouraged to apply. Industry experience is not required. Freshers with good ideas can also apply.

Duration – 6 months (weekly 2 hours of virtual sessions will be conducted for 3 months)

How to Apply – please fill in this form - https://forms.gle/TZTv4aGXT9AwtF8T9 or contact +91-9307305181

Dates to Remember – Application deadline is 31st August 2024. Selection will be announced in mid-September 2024. Program commences from October 2024 onwards.

Since its inception in 2017, the incubator has supported over 86 startups across various sectors including Electric Vehicles, Agri-tech, Health-tech, IT, IOT, Clean Energy, Social Innovation and many more. With a robust ecosystem that includes state-of-the-art facilities, strategic industry partnerships, and mentorship from over 100 experts, AIC-Pinnacle provides more than just financial assistance.

The incubator’s existing programs, such as EMERGE, EVOLVE, and ELEVATE, have collectively generated over 35 Intellectual Property Rights applications and created more than 250 jobs, contributing significantly to India’s innovation ecosystem.

Women entrepreneurs interested in joining this transformative program are encouraged to apply and become part of this initiative aimed at reshaping the future of women in business.

Join us as we pave the way for a more inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.