ORRA’s Festive Fiesta: Stunning New Jewellery and Exciting Offers Kickstart From Navratri

·       Exquisite Mangalsutras and Pendant sets unveiled before the Navratri season kicks off

·       Customers can avail up to 25% off on Diamond Jewellery and get financing with 0% interest EMIs

With the festive season kicking in, and Navratri and Dussehra celebrations just around the corner, ORRA Fine Jewellery unveiled its latest Festive Collections featuring exquisite diamond studded Mangalsutras crafted to reflect the grace and tradition of this vibrant period. With consumers looking to accessorize their trendy festive look, ORRA has come up with diamond pendant sets that will capture the essence of timeless elegance and traditional design philosophy that exudes festivity and accentuates their look. From intricate diamond designs to grand statement pieces, ORRA has designed each jewellery with the modern woman in mind.

ORRA is also presenting the exquisite Mangalsutras, a new collection where modern luxury meets timeless tradition, and each meticulously crafted design will become the perfect statement piece for women to wear during this festive celebration. Adorned with dazzling diamonds and intricate goldwork, embodying a perfect balance of sophistication and cultural reverence, the new Mangalsutra collection will glamorize each festive look this season. Complementing this is the opulent diamond Pendants. These pendants, renowned for their delicate artistry and spectacular diamonds, will elevate any ensemble with their minimalistic yet undeniable glamour. Each pendant will be a testament to refined taste, offering a touch of elegance for Navratri and Dussehra festivities.

What’s more is that this festive season, ORRA is inviting its valued customers to celebrate in style, not only with an exclusive range of designer sets specially curated for the festive season, but also along with special offers like never before. Visit your nearest ORRA Fine Jewellery store to avail these exclusive offers:

·       Up to 25% off on Diamond Jewellery

·       Flat 25% of on making charges of Gold Jewellery

·       0% interest EMI

·       0% deduction on old gold jewellery

*Terms and Conditions apply

This limited time offer is exclusively available during Navratri and Dussehra for now

So, whether you're looking to add to your collection or find the perfect gift for your loved ones, beginning from Navratri, the festive period is the ideal occasion to make a memorable purchase from ORRA for a trendsetting look.

About ORRA:

The journey of a million gazes began in 1888 before it metamorphosed into ORRA. From sculpting and manufacturing diamonds to crafting and retailing the finest diamond and gold jewellery, ORRA has come a long way since its inception. Today, ORRA is one of India's finest diamond jewellery brands having spread its glow with 94 stores in 39 cities and has consistently been at the forefront of design, leadership and product innovation.

Master craftsmen who have inherited the centuries - old legacy of jewellery making, brilliantly cut Belgian diamonds, delicate designs in diamond jewellery, elaborate bridal sets in colored stones, India’s brightest 73-facet patented diamond- ORRA Crown Star, the one-of-its-kind ORRA store. These are just some of the facets that go into making ORRA - The Finest Diamond Destination.

For more information, visit – https://www.orra.co.in

IT Q2 Earnings Preview - Steady Quarter; Pinning Hopes On FY26 Recovery: Emkay Global Financial Services

Emkay Global Financial Services has released a note on the earning expectations for the Indian IT companies for Q2FY25. As per the research IT companies’ revenue growth is likely to reflect the steady demand environment and usual seasonal strength, although discretionary spending is yet to recover. Emkay Global expects YoY growth trajectory to improve further on the back of a stable demand environment, benefits of large deal ramp ups, and no further deterioration in discretionary spending.

The research note further states that the delay in decision-making due to macro uncertainties continue to restrict meaningful pick-up in the growth momentum. Margin performance is likely to remain stable to sequential improvement, except for companies where wage hike is implemented. Commentary on recovery in demand will be keenly watched to gain confidence on sustainable improvement in YoY revenue growth trajectory. The number of deal announcements have increased on sequential basis which indicates some improvement in the pace of deal closures.

Emkay Global believes the uptick in technology spending in CY25 hinges on confidence on macro stability and resilience of the economy after start of the interest rate-cut cycle; some clarity on it is expected earliest in early-CY25. Nifty IT index has outperformed the broader markets by ~9% in the last 3 months on the back of anticipated recovery in demand; however, it underperformed in the last 1 month by ~4% as its premium to broader market leaves limited scope for outperformance in the absence of a real uptick in demand. Their pecking order is Infosys, HCL Tech, Tech Mahindra, TCS, Wipro, and LTIMindtree in large caps. Among mid-caps, the preference eClerx Services, Cyient, Birlasoft, Firstsource Solutions, and Zomato.

YoY revenue growth to improve as demand environment remains fairly stable

The revenue growth is expected to improve on YoY basis for the companies under Emkay Global’s coverage on the back of a steady demand environment, benefits from large deal ramp ups, and some recovery in the BFSI vertical. Emkay Global expects select mid-cap companies to outgrow large caps. For Tier-1 companies, the estimated revenue growth of 0.9-3% QoQ, whereas mid-caps are expected to grow 2.1-4.5% (Coforge reported numbers would be higher due to integration of Cigniti). Among verticals, the companies highlighted green shoots in BFSI (particularly in North America) in Q1FY25, and the trend continued in Q2 as well. Retail and Hi-tech are seeing some softness, while healthcare and manufacturing are expected to remain relatively resilient. The underlying demand in Communications remains weak. Deal wins are expected to remain steady this quarter.

Emkay Global expects Infosys to raise its revenue growth guidance to 3.5-4.5% CC YoY (current 3-4%) for FY25, while retaining EBITM guidance of 20-22%. HCL Tech is expected to retain its revenue growth guidance of 3- 5% and EBITM guidance of 18-19%. Wipro is expected to guide for -1% to +1% growth in Q3FY25.

Margin trajectory to improve sequentially

Margin performance is likely to improve sequentially, except for a few companies implementing wage hike in Q2. Absence of visa costs and cost-optimization measures would support margin, whereas ramp up of large deals should partly negate it. For Tier-1 companies, margins are expected to remain flattish to 110 bps expansion on sequential basis, while the same for Tier-2 companies should be in the wider range of -180 to 260 bps QoQ, due to wage hike and M&As. Attrition should remain steady. Hiring is likely to see some uptick due to fresher intake, while lateral hiring trends should remain muted.

Key monitorables

i) FY25 revenue/margin guidance changes, ii) Management commentary on – demand trends across geographies, confidence on H2 growth uptick, furlough requests by clients, recovery in discretionary spending, and signs of optimism in client conversation after recent interest rate-cut in the US, iii) pace of decision-making, iv) demand trend in key verticals of BFSI, Retail, Manufacturing, Communications, and Hi-Tech, v) deal intake and pipeline, vi) attrition and hiring trends, vii) progress on Gen AI, and viii) pricing environment.

On The Fast Track: BMW Group India Posts Best-Ever Year To Date Car Sales

* At an all-time high of YTD Q3 car sales (BMW + MINI): 10,556 units, +10% growth.

* Overwhelming demand for Long Wheelbase models. (BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 7 Series).

* BMW 5 Series stars the festive season with strong deliveries.

* BMW Luxury Class affirms the symbol of exclusivity with BMW 7 Series, BMW i7 and BMW X7.

* BMW X1 dominates the Luxury Compact SAV segment.

* Leadership in Luxury Electric segment continues with the widest portfolio.

* BMW i7 is the largest selling BMW EV.

* #BMWGroupIndia #BMW #MINI #BMWMotorrad

BMW Group India continues its success story by posting best-ever year to date car sales (January – September 2024) with 10% growth. In the first nine months, 10,556 cars (BMW and MINI) and 5,638 motorcycles (BMW Motorrad) have been delivered. BMW sold 10,056 units and MINI 500 units.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “BMW Group India is scaling new heights with consistent and robust business results. The highest ever car deliveries during January to September this year, reflects the synergy between a successful strategy and an unparalleled customer experience. BMW Group India is changing the game with its long wheelbase product portfolio and a strong electric mobility offensive. Key models like the BMW 7 Series Long Wheelbase, BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase and BMW X1 are leading in their segments and demand for the new BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase is overwhelming. Excellence across the entire spectrum of sales, aftersales, processes and customer engagements set our brands apart, creating an intense pull for both existing customers and aspiring individuals who want to enjoy sheer driving pleasure.”

BMW Joy Days complimented the festive seasons as a catalyst for strong sales performance. The newly launched BMW 5 Series has already garnered sales of over 300 units with a strong order bank over 600 units.

BMW Group Electric Vehicles (EV)

With the widest and most attractive range of electric vehicles in the luxury segment, BMW Group India maintains its top position in the electric mobility space. 725 units of fully electric BMW and MINI cars were delivered YTD Q3 2024. BMW i7 was the largest selling BMW EV.

BMW Group India now offers six electric cars and two electric scooters in India –

BMW: i7, i5, i4, iX, iX1 | MINI: Countryman Electric | BMW Motorrad: CE 04 and CE 02.

BMW Group India is the first luxury car manufacturer in the country to cross the milestone of over 2,000 EV deliveries till date. BMW iX is the most popular luxury EV in India with over 1,000 units sold till date.

Apart from the strong product offensive, a key differentiating factor in this success is building a robust electric ecosystem for customers. BMW Group India has one of the largest fast-charging networks at its dealerships across 51 cities in India. Additional facilities like complimentary home charger with installation, Destination Charging and Smart E-Routing come together to build strong trust in electric mobility services from BMW and MINI.

BMW Long Wheelbase Range

BMW India possesses the largest portfolio of long wheelbase models in the luxury segment – BMW 7 Series, BMW 5 Series and BMW 3 Series. Designed keeping the requirements of Indian clientele in mind, these strategic models are highly successful due to enhanced space, comfort and luxury.

BMW Luxury Class (BMW 7 Series, BMW i7, BMW X7 and BMW XM)

BMW Luxury Class vehicles contributed 17% to total sales and BMW X7 was the highest-selling model. Launch of new exclusive editions such as BMW X7 Signature heightened the opulence of the segment.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicles and Sedans

With around 50:50 ratio between sports activity vehicles and sedans sales, BMW Group India is strategically positioned across the entire product spectrum in the luxury segment.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicles contributed 55% to sales. BMW X1 was the most popular SAV with around 20% share in sales. BMW 3 Series was once again the highest selling BMW sedan with a 19% share in sales.

BMW and MINI 360°

Customers enjoy great value proposition and complete peace of mind with the 360? finance plan from BMW India Financial Services which offers attractive low monthly instalments, assured buy-back, flexible end of term options and an opportunity to upgrade to a new car amongst other benefits. 7 out of 10 cars financed by BMW India Financial Services are through BMW and MINI 360?.

For BMW Joy Days festive offers, BMW India Financial Services has introduced exclusive finance plans with interest rates as low as 7.75% per annum and comprehensive EMI plans starting from just INR 49,999 onwards. (Valid on select models)

BMW Group India

With BMW, MINI and Motorrad, the BMW Group has its sight set firmly on the premium sector of the Indian automobile market. Along with cars and motorcycles, BMW Group's activities in India comprise of financial services for its premium clientele. BMW India and BMW India Financial Services are 100% subsidiaries of the BMW Group and are headquartered in Gurgaon (National Capital Region).

BMW India started operations in 2007. The wide range of its activities include a manufacturing plant in Chennai, a parts warehouse in Pune, a training centre in Gurgaon NCR and development of a dealer organisation across major metropolitan centres of the country.

MINI has successfully established itself as a premium small car brand in India since its launch in January 2012. BMW Motorrad officially started its operations as a part of the Indian subsidiary of BMW Group in April 2017.

With BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad, BMW Group India currently has over 80 touchpoints across the country setting high benchmarks in service quality and customer service. With launch of Retail.NEXT, BMW Group India aims to create a future-forward retail space that not only showcases its vehicles but also embodies the brand’s commitment to luxury, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The new retail concept entails new design, new digital tools, new roles, and new processes. With a total investment of INR 365.6 crores, Retail.NEXT will be implemented across 56 facilities in 33 cities over 36 months.

BMW India Financial Services, a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC), started operations in 2010. It operates with three business lines: Retail Finance, Commercial Finance and Insurance Solutions (as corporate agents). The services offered through BMW India Financial Services are significantly valuable to the premium clientele who require exclusive and flexible financial solutions.

Bengaluru Based NGO Association Of People With Disability Wins Jury Commendation At Bridgestone Mobility Social Impact Awards 2024

* The Association of People with Disability from Bengaluru won the Jury’s special recommendation for their project ‘Rehab on Wheels’ (ROW) for ‘Mobility for Increased Access to Resources and Opportunities’ category

Bengaluru based NGO The Association of People with Disability won the Jury’s Commendation at the 4th edition of Bridgestone Mobility Social Impact Awards for 2024. Introduced in 2021, Bridgestone Mobility Social Impact Awards (MSIA) is an initiative of Bridgestone India to promote safe and sustainable mobility for all. The awards aim to identify, recognize and promote innovations in sustainable mobility that address social issues and advance social development through the work of Not-for-Profit Organizations.

The 4th edition of the awards selected the winners under the categories of ‘Mobility for empowerment of vulnerable groups’ and ‘Mobility for Increased Access to Resources and Opportunities’..

“Bridgestone’s mission of ‘Serving Society with Superior Quality’ lies at the core of how we contribute towards people and communities around us. As a global leader in sustainable mobility solutions, these awards represent our commitment to support and celebrate mobility innovations for the greater good. This is the 4th edition for Bridgestone Mobility Social Impact Awards and we are enthused to see the calibre and impact of all participating organisations in providing solutions for the pressing needs of communities and working towards improving the quality of life of those whom they serve.” said Mr. Hiroshi Yoshizane, Managing Director Bridgestone India.

The Association of People with Disability from Bengaluru, Karnataka received Jury’s commendation for their project Rehab on Wheels (ROW) “Reaching the Unreachable – Comprehensive Rehab Service in the Last Mile”. The project created affordable rehabilitation care at the last mile for the socio-economically vulnerable communities in Bengaluru’s urban & rural areas. This included therapy services made available at geriatric centers and orphanages along with health and wellness camps at the doorsteps.

Talking about this first of its kind rehabilitation on wheels initiative for Persons with Disabilities, Dr N S Senthil Kumar PhD (Rehab) CEO of Association of People with Disability mentioned “We are incredibly proud of the impact Rehab on Wheels has made in its very first year. Bringing crucial rehabilitation services directly to communities has empowered over 1600 individuals to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. We are grateful to our donor partner in making this initiative a reality and we look forward to expanding our reach and impact in the coming months.”

About Bridgestone India:

Bridgestone India Pvt. Ltd, a group company of Bridgestone Corporation, started its operations in 1996. In March 1998 with the setup of its manufacturing facility in Kheda, Madhya Pradesh, Bridgestone achieved its objective of running Indian manufactured Bridgestone tyreson Indian Roads. It expanded its facilities by setting up one more facility in Chakan, Pune in 2013. The Indore plant rolled out its 100 million tyre in 2023. In a short stint of more than 25 years, Bridgestone India Pvt. Ltd has become one of the leading tyre companies in both the OEM & Replacement market.

About Bridgestone Corporation:

Bridgestone is a global leader in tyres and rubber building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Tokyo, the company employs approximately 130,000 people globally and conducts business in more than 150 countries and territories worldwide. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tyres and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play. 

98% Of Chili farmers Used Gracia Last Year – Godrej Agrovet

Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL) today said that 98% of Chili farmers used Gracia last year, an effective pest management solution for chili crops. Releasing the findings of the survey, which was carried in Chili markets across south, the company witnessed 57% of the farmers using Gracia between 15-35 DAT (Days After Transplanting).

“With Gracia offering a prolonged duration of control against thrips if chili crops are treated early, the findings clearly showcase that farmers are finding value in using Gracia early. Additionally, 71% of farmers we surveyed used the solution more than 2 times last year. This reiterates that Gracia is the most popular and go-to-brand for farmers,” said Rajavelu N.K, CEO, Crop Protection Business, Godrej Agrovet.

Gracia’s benefits extend beyond pest control. It enhances overall crop health, promoting better-established crops that lead to increased fruit production. The product’s quick knockdown of pests ensures pest-free chilis. Particularly notable is Gracia’s effectiveness in controlling thrips and lepidopteran pests, a major threat to chili crops. Early application prevents thrips build-up, providing long-lasting protection. Moreover, the use of Gracia results in healthier seedlings that require fewer resources, making crop management more efficient and economical for farmers.

Added Rajavelu, “Gracia’s translaminar action effectively controls both chewing and sucking pests, even those hiding under leaves. This comprehensive protection ensures that chili plants remain healthy throughout their critical development phases. Hence for optimal results, we recommend 2 applications of 160 ml of Gracia per acre – first within 15-25 DAT followed by a second application 10 days later.”

As the chili season approaches, Godrej Agrovet encourages farmers to “Start Healthy, Start with Gracia” for pest-free chilis, enhanced plant health, and prevention of thrips buildup.

About Godrej Agrovet:

Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL) is a diversified, Research & Development focused food and agri-business conglomerate, dedicated to improving the productivity of Indian farmers by innovating products and services that sustainably increase crop and livestock yields. GAVL holds leading market positions in the different businesses it operates - Animal Feed, Crop Protection, Oil Palm, Dairy, Poultry and Processed Foods. GAVL has a pan India presence with sales of over a million tons annually of high-quality animal feed. Our teams have worked closely with Indian farmers to develop large Oil Palm Plantations, which is helping in bridging the demand and supply gap of edible oil in India. In the crop protection segment, the Company has strong presence in the B2B segment through its subsidiary Astec Lifesciences and through its extensive distribution, network pan-India delivers innovative agrochemical offerings catering to the entire crop life cycles. In Dairy, Poultry, and Processed Foods, the company operates through its subsidiaries Creamline Dairy Products Limited and Godrej Tyson Foods Limited. Apart from this, GAVL also has a joint venture with the ACI group of Bangladesh for animal feed business in Bangladesh.

Cyient DLM Expands Global Footprint With Strategic Acquisition Of US-Based EMS Manufacturer

Cyient DLM, a leading integrated electronics manufacturing company, announced today its acquisition of Altek Electronics, a prominent EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Services) company based in the United States. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Cyient DLM's growth plan, expanding its presence in the North American market and strengthening its capabilities across key sectors.

Altek Electronics, with its strong footprint in the Medical & Healthcare and Industrial sectors, strengthens Cyient DLM’s capability in these sectors and adds a diverse customer base to Cyient DLM. The acquisition adds a number of Fortune 500 clients to Cyient DLM's portfolio and strategic engagements with multiple other key clients. Additionally, Altek Electronics, with its ITAR certification, positions Cyient DLM well to address the growing US Defense market. Through this acquisition Cyient DLM will also significantly expand its manufacturing capacity adding additional 80,000 sft of manufacturing area to cater to its clients globally.

This acquisition is in line with Cyient DLM’s strategic roadmap to expand geographic footprint, add strategic clients and increase client proximity.

Krishna Bodanapu, Executive Chairman of Cyient DLM, commented, "This acquisition is a pivotal moment for Cyient DLM. It expands our global footprint, brings us closer to our strategic customers, and significantly strengthens our capabilities. With this acquisition, Cyient DLM is not only broadening its reach into the Medical & Healthcare and Industrial sectors but also bolstering its capabilities for the Defense sector through ITAR compliance. Altek Electronics’ proven track record with key industry leading clients will accelerate Cyient DLM's ability to deliver high-performance, reliable services across these sectors.

Anthony Montalbano, CEO of Cyient DLM, added, "This acquisition is more than just an expansion, it is an important milestone for Cyient DLM. With the addition of Altek Electronics' expertise, we are enhancing our manufacturing capability & capacity, and strengthening our competitive position in the North American market. This allows us to continue offering world-class services that meet the evolving needs of our customers."

David Altschuler, CEO of Altek Electronics, mentioned, "Joining forces with Cyient DLM opens new avenues for us to scale our operations and leverage their global resources and industry expertise. As we enter this new chapter, we remain committed to upholding the values that have defined our success and look forward to leveraging expanded resources and capabilities to better serve our customers, suppliers, and stakeholders."

This acquisition highlights Cyient DLM's commitment to expanding its global footprint, diversifying its customer base, and positioning itself as a leader in the EMS sector for highly regulated and safety-critical industries. This move sets the stage for Cyient DLM's next phase of growth, ensuring long-term success and greater value for its customers worldwide. 

KMC Manipal Junior Resident Represents UN MGCY At The United Nations General Assembly

Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, takes immense pride in announcing that Dr. Poorvaprabha Patil, a second-year junior resident in the Department of Ophthalmology, recently made a remarkable contribution at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) held at the UN Headquarters in New York. Dr. Patil represented the United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth (UN MGCY) at the global forum, which brings together 193 countries to address pressing global challenges, including peace, security, climate change, and human rights.

Dr. Poorvaprabha Patil had the honour of moderating the Intergenerational Equity and Solidarity session at the UNGA Summit of the Future Action Day on September 20th. The session, held in the prestigious Trusteeship Council, was attended by world leaders, including ministers from Bahrain, Spain, and the Dominican Republic. Key topics discussed during the session included youth engagement, economic empowerment, green skills, civic engagement, and health.

In addition to her role as moderator, Dr. Patil also participated in several high-profile events during the UNGA high-level week. She had the unique opportunity to witness the speech delivered by India's Honourable Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, during the global forum, further enriching her experience at the United Nations.

On this proud occasion, Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor, Health Sciences, MAHE Manipal, extended his congratulations, stating "Dr. Poorvaprabha’s representation at the United Nations General Assembly is a shining example of the incredible global impact our students and residents can have. Her leadership and commitment to the causes of youth engagement and sustainable development reflect the values that MAHE stands for. We are proud of her achievements and look forward to the remarkable heights she will continue to scale."

Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, Dean of Kasturba Medical College, also expressed his admiration "It is truly an honour for KMC Manipal to have one of our own residents play such a pivotal role on the global stage. Dr. Poorvaprabha Patil’s involvement in such a prestigious forum is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion for creating positive change. Her contribution to the global conversation on youth engagement and sustainable development is inspiring, and we are immensely proud of her."

Dr. Poorvaprabha’s participation in the UNGA highlights the growing role of young leaders in shaping global policies and driving sustainable change across the world. Her voice, alongside other esteemed global leaders, contributes to building a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Yamaha’s Exclusive Pavilion At Mela! Mela! Anime Japan Excites Fans And Enthusiasts In New Delhi

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. participated in the inaugural ‘Mela! Mela! Anime Japan’, a landmark event celebrating the vibrant fusion of Japanese culture and anime fandom. The two-day event, held at Pacific Mall, Tagore Garden, New Delhi on the 28th and 29th of September, witnessed an overwhelming response from young enthusiasts and anime fans, who also visited Yamaha Pavilion at the fest.

The Yamaha Pavilion dazzled visitors with its signature blue-themed design, crafted to provide an interactive ‘touch and feel’ experience. Drawing inspiration from gaming and anime culture, the pavilion showcased a striking, sporty, and youthful atmosphere that resonated deeply with Gen Z audiences and the quintessential Yamaha enthusiasts.

In addition, the anime inspired pavilion also showcased Yamaha’s latest RayZR Street Rally 125 Fi Hybrid along with the R15 V4 and the MT-15 V2 for the visitors to experience the exhilaration of its two-wheelers. Apart from the displays, the pavilion also had a dedicated merchandise section for visitors to get their hands on Yamaha souvenirs, a Snap and share engagement adding to the digital memories, and a Monster Energy counter to keep the enthusiasm at full throttle, among other exciting engagements. The excitement multifolded with the presence of a famous Japanese singer - Spira Spica and a renowned Gamer and influencer - Kaashvi Hiranandani at the Yamaha Pavilion.

Supported by the Government of India and Japan, the Mela! Mela! Anime Japan Fest offered a rare opportunity for attendees to experience authentic Japanese culture and the vibrant world of anime. With a lineup of engaging anime-related activities that included a Japanese Film Festival and a host of Japanese brands attracting visitors with their unique products and services, the event saw one of the largest gatherings of enthusiasts of this vibrant subculture in India.

PDRL Announces The 2nd Edition Of AeroGCS Global Competition: Elevating Drone Innovation To New Heights

-        This year’s prize pool features a cash award of Rs 2.5 Lakh for the AeroGCS Champion, Rs 1 Lakh for the AeroGCS Expert, and Rs 50 Thousand for the AeroGCS Professional.

PDRL announces its 2nd AeroGCS Global Competition inviting participants to register now. Building on the success of last year, this year the competition is set to further encourage drone technology enthusiasts, innovators, and professionals to contribute to the evolving drone ecosystem while placing a special emphasis on creativity and positive social impact.

Global Platform for Drone Pioneers

The AeroGCS Global Competition 2.O invites individuals aged 18 and above whether Drone enthusiasts, Professionals, or Students—to join a journey of innovation. Beyond technical skills, the competition emphasizes the development of drone solutions that can bring about meaningful social change. The competition seeks to challenge participants to apply their technical skills toward addressing pressing global issues, such as agricultural efficiency, environmental sustainability, and disaster relief, among others.

Competition Overview: Phases and Structure

Registration is open until 7th December 2024, and the competition will progress through a series of rounds designed to assess participants' technical knowledge and practical drone flight skills:

*      Round 1 on Saturday, 14th Dec. 2024 – An online multiple-choice quiz focusing on drone technology fundamentals and its potential for social impact.

*      Round 2 on Saturday, 4th Jan. 2025 – A virtual simulation challenge using AeroGCS GREEN and an advanced drone simulator.

*      Round 3 on Saturday, 25th Jan. 2025 – The final on-field challenge held in Hyderabad where participants will go through a written test followed by configuration and execution of a live drone flight mission using AeroGCS Green & AeroGCS Enterprise.

This multi-stage format will ensure that only the best drone experts advance to the final on-ground event, where they will compete for top honours.

Awards and Recognition

The AeroGCS Global Competition 2.O offers more than just prestige; it provides participants with substantial rewards and career opportunities. This year’s prize pool includes a cash prize of Rs 2.5 Lakh for the AeroGCS Champion, Rs. One Lakh for AeroGCS Expert, Rs. 50 Thousand for AeroGCS Professional along with a PDRL Certificate, Social Media Spotlights, and potential job offers from PDRL and partners in the drone industry. Beyond the prizes, participants will also have the chance to network with industry leaders and potential employers, positioning this competition as a valuable stepping stone for their future careers.

Opportunity for participants

This year’s AeroGCS Global Competition 2.O is more than just a contest; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of drone technology while contributing to the broader good. Participants will have the chance to connect with thought leaders and innovators from around the world, gaining insights and mentorship that extend beyond the competition itself.

PDRL is committed to supporting the development of drone technology that not only pushes technical boundaries but also addresses the challenges facing communities worldwide.

Registration Details

Participants can register online at https://aerogcs.com/aerogcs-global-competition-2-0/, pay a nominal participation fee, and gain access to learning resources through PDRL’s AeroMegh platform. For those who qualify for the final round, PDRL will provide support in terms of travel and accommodation, ensuring the competition remains accessible to all.

Speaking about the competition, Anil Chandaliya, Founder of PDRL said, “India is undergoing a technological revolution as we strive for Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and drones, along with other emerging technologies, are leading this transformation across industries like construction, agriculture, mining, and healthcare.” He further added, “At PDRL, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of drone technology through continuous innovation. The AeroGCS Global Competition is the ideal platform to showcase this vision. We are eager to see how participants not only advance drone technology but also apply it to solve real-world social challenges.”

Vishal Joshi, Head - Training and Certification of PDRL said, “AeroGCS Global Competition is not just about identifying the next wave of drone innovators; it’s about giving them the tools and platform to create technology that makes a difference.” He further added, “We believe that drones have the potential to solve real-world problems, and through this competition, we want to spark a global conversation about how technology can be used to drive positive social impact.”

Northern Uni Set To Launch End-To-End Student-Led Satellite Project

The soon to be launched Satellite will carry an array of sophisticated instruments designed to study the Space atmosphere and demonstrate communication technologies.

This also marks the first student-led Satellite Technology project for the Government School students of Jaffna region in Sri Lanka.

Chennai, 4th October 2024: In commemoration of World Space Week, Northern Uni today signed a strategic MoU with Space Kidz India to launch a collaborative student-led satellite project, marking a monumental step in space education for the northern region of Sri Lanka. The MoU was signed in the city in the presence of Dr. Prafulla Kumar Jain, Director - InSpace Ahmedabad, Mr. Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman - SLIIT Northern Uni, Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder & CEO - SpaceKidz India, Ms. Alma Okpalefe, Executive Director - World Space Week Association and Dr. Saranya Jaikumar, Educational Psychologist, symbolizing the region's first foray into space technology. This ambitious project will bring together students from both Northern Uni and Government schools in Jaffna, along with students from India, to jointly design, develop, and launch a satellite. The satellite will carry sophisticated instruments aimed at studying the space atmosphere and demonstrating cutting-edge communication technologies.

This collaborative effort helmed by Northern Uni is expected to yield invaluable data for scientific research while showcasing the technological prowess of student innovators from both nations. This project also offers students a firsthand exposure to satellite technology and also the chance to participate in groundbreaking research that has the potential to contribute innovative solutions to global challenges. The initiative will equip students with essential skills in satellite development, data analysis, and communication technologies, preparing them for future careers in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. By engaging in this landmark project, students from both countries will play a role in advancing space research and promoting technological innovation that benefits society.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman SLIIT Northern Uni, said, "This initiative is a giant leap for both Sri Lanka and India in cultivating a culture of scientific collaboration and mutual innovation. Our students, the future citizens of both nations, will gain unparalleled exposure to the intricacies of satellite technology. What excites me most is the way this project fosters cross-border collaboration among students from different backgrounds, cultures, and educational systems. They will not only develop advanced skills in science and engineering but also learn the value of teamwork and shared goals. Through this project, we are building not just a satellite, but a future where innovation knows no borders.”

Adding to this Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder and CEO of Space Kidz India, said, "This project represents a shared vision for both India and Sri Lanka—one that sees education, technology, and space exploration as tools for uniting people and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. By engaging students from both countries, we are planting the seeds of a future generation that will work collaboratively on global challenges. These young minds will become the torchbearers of scientific progress, and their participation in building and launching this satellite is just the beginning. Space technology is an incredibly powerful platform, and through this project, we aim to inspire students to look beyond geographical boundaries and become true innovators and leaders in space science.”

The project is structured into two key phases. 

Phase 1 will focus on training students in space science and technology, with 50 school students from Sri Lanka, 10 school students from India, and 50 college students undergoing comprehensive training. This phase is designed to give participants a foundational understanding of satellite development and space missions, offering a rich educational experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights.

Phase 2 will involve 30 college students from Sri Lanka who will be directly engaged in building, integrating, and preparing the satellite for its eventual launch. The collaborative process will allow them to work alongside Indian experts and their peers, gaining hands-on experience in satellite construction. Furthermore, 15 college students and 50 school students from Sri Lanka will travel to India to witness the satellite launch, creating a powerful learning opportunity that will inspire future generations to pursue careers in space science and technology.

About Northern Uni -  Northern Uni is dedicated to providing world-class education and fostering innovation, with a particular focus on STEM subjects. The university strives to offer equal opportunities for all students, and its satellite project represents a critical step in expanding access to space technology in Sri Lanka.

About Space Kidz India -  Space Kidz India is a renowned organization dedicated to promoting space education and research. With a successful track record of satellite launches and space missions, Space Kidz India plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of space science in India and around the world.

Photo Caption:  From Left to Right: Students of SLIIT Northern Uni; G L Gnanatheva, Minister (Commerce), Sri Lanka Deputy High Commission;  Dr Saranya Jaikumar, Educational Psychologist;  Mr Indy Pathmanathan, Chairman, SLIIT Northern Uni; Dr Srimathy Kesan, Founder & CEO – Space Kidz India; Dr Prafulla Kumar, Director – InSpace, Ahmedabad and students of Space Kidz India.

Gandhigiri: From Sarcasm To Substance—Reviving The True Spirit -Commodore SR Sridhar (Retd)

With my morning cup of coffee, I turned on the TV to catch up on the news and see how the nation was observing Gandhi Jayanthi. I was taken aback when the news host casually remarked, “Let’s do some ‘Gandhigiri’ in today’s show,” with a giggle and a tone that carried a hint of sarcasm. The word, spoken so dismissively, provoked me, as it seemed to reduce the depth of Gandhi’s legacy to something trivial or funny.

Gandhigiri is a term that has evolved over the decades, gaining momentum in casual conversations at college tea shops and street corners where young people gather for debates and usual chitter-chatter. It reflects a disconnect that often exists between the youth and Gandhi’s core principles of nonviolence and truth. Today’s youth, while they may recognize the historical importance of Gandhi, view Gandhigiri with a blend of admiration, practicality, and skepticism.

Many young people still respect the essence of Gandhigiri, particularly nonviolence (ahimsa), truth (satyagraha), and civil disobedience as methods of positive change. These values are seen as timeless, particularly for activism, social reform, and environmental issues. However, the 2006 Bollywood film Lage Raho Munna Bhai was instrumental in making Gandhigiri popular again by presenting Gandhian ideals in a humorous and relatable way, showing how they can be applied to resolve everyday conflicts. This modern portrayal through Sanjay Dutt, though lighthearted, brought Gandhi’s philosophy back into contemporary discourse.

Despite this revival, Gandhianism is often viewed as an idealistic proposition in today’s fast-paced world. The gap between Gandhi’s ideals and their practical application has grown wider, given the complexities of modern life. In a world that rewards competitiveness and immediate results, the slow, deliberate approach of nonviolent resistance and truth-telling can seem impractical. Yet, the power of Gandhi’s principles endures. His emphasis on ethical leadership and public service remains more relevant than ever in a time when trust in political and corporate leaders is waning. Although difficult to practice consistently, values like honesty, transparency, and moral courage are still admired and aspired to.

The Gandhigiri we sometimes hear spoken of today with skepticism or dismissal—the playful, almost superficial version—does not capture the profound depth of Gandhi’s teachings. True Gandhigiri is not just about being kind or nonviolent in an easy, surface-level way; it’s about embodying resilience, moral courage, and unwavering integrity, even when the world seems to run counter to those values. While some may laugh or giggle at the term, the true spirit of Gandhigiri is a powerful force that can bring about lasting change in a world that sorely needs it.

DPIIT And Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited Join Hands To Set Up Manufacturing Based Startup Incubator In Gujarat

Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to establish an incubator to support Manufacturing-focused startups in Gujarat. This marks a significant milestone in Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India’s commitment to nurturing innovation and supporting the manufacturing ecosystem in the country. This Startup Incubator aims to provide a robust platform for startups focused on selected manufacturing sectors, fostering technological advancements, sustainability, and energy efficiency. The MoU was formalized under the leadership of Shri. Sumeet Jarangal, Director, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Shri. Sanjay Sudhakaran, Managing Director, Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited., India & South Asia Region. The signing took place in the presence of Shri. Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, DPIIT.

Shri. Sumeet Jarangal, Director, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry said that the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of "design in India, design for the world" is ushering India towards a Viksit Bharat. He added that the Government of India is committed to boosting the manufacturing sector with several initiatives such as Make in India and Production Linked Incentive scheme. He emphasized that a key element in boosting India’s manufacturing sector is to create a pipeline of innovation and an ecosystem of startups that drive this innovation. He expressed confidence that the partnership with Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Ltd. will provide the much needed nurturing and guidance to the young innovators and entrepreneurs of the country.

The incubator at Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited will provide mentorship and guidance to the manufacturing startups on various critical aspects such as concept-to-prototype development, project viability assessment, and go-to-market strategies. The company will also support them in managing potential funding needs along with other necessary services such as legal and IP filing to enable commercialization of innovative products.

Shri. Sanjay Sudhakaran, Managing Director of Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited in the India & South Asia Region, congratulated the Government of India and DPIIT for conceptualizing this initiative and for providing this unique platform that connects innovators with the industry. He noted that India has proven its innovative and entrepreneurial prowess in the IT sector with countless unicorns and it is now time for similar success in the manufacturing sector. He also said that Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited backed by Japanese innovation, technology and industry-leading expertise, has invested heavily in India to establish world-class R&D and manufacturing capabilities. He emphasized that the manufacturing facility at Kadi, Gujarat, which is one of the largest air conditioner manufacturing facilities in India and Global Development Center are committed to bringing innovative, premium and feature-rich air conditioning solutions to Indian customers.

Shri. Sanjay Sudhakaran also said that the company was delighted to partner with DPIIT to set up a state-of-the-art incubator at the company’s premises in Kadi, Gujarat.  This strategic collaboration with DPIIT highlights Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Ltd.’s role in fostering innovation in the manufacturing sector, aligning with the Indian Government’s vision to support technological advancement and industrial growth. Through this incubator, manufacturing-focused startups would get the much-needed guidance and nurturing required to bring their innovations to life.

Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India headquarters in Kadi, Gujarat, is home to world-class Global Design Center, a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, and now, Startup Incubator. This incubator will not only provide startups an exposure to world-class R&D, prototyping, and testing processes, but also aims to support them in developing prototypes and commercializing the product.  The company’s manufacturing facility at Kadi, one of India’s largest air conditioner manufacturing facilities, produces a diverse range of products, from room air conditioners, packaged light commercial and Commercial Air Conditioners as well as custom air conditioning solutions for specialized applications.

About Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited

Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited is a joint venture company of Johnson Controls, US and Hitachi Global Life Solutions, Japan. Through this joint venture, we have combined the rich heritage and innovative technology of Hitachi with the industry-leading expertise and a global network of Johnson Controls. The partnership is aimed at addressing the cooling needs faster, smarter and much more efficiently than ever before. Our customers will stand to benefit from our world-class R&D centres, where our researchers work tirelessly to provide innovative solutions and quality products that are designed to meet every expectation. Johnson Controls – Hitachi Air Conditioning has global presence. Its India subsidiary operates in the name and style of “Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited”

Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited manufactures a wide range of products under Hitachi Cooling & Heating brand, such as room air-conditioners (Split & Window ACs) to commercial air-conditioners including Cassette Air conditioners, Ductable air-conditioners & VRF systems.

Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited’s headquarter is situated in Ahmedabad, Gujarat with manufacturing plant in Kadi, Gujarat. Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning India Limited is amongst the leading air-conditioning companies in India.

KIMS Hospitals Signs MoU With Intuitive To Launch 25 New Robotic Surgery Programs; Expanding Accessibility In Tier 2 & 3 Cities

* da Vinci systems to be introduced in tier 2 and tier 3 cities in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Maharashtra.

Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) Hospitals, one of India’s leading corporate healthcare groups, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Intuitive, a global technology leader in minimally invasive care and the pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery (RAS).

The Robotic Surgery Centre of Excellence will be based out of KIMS-PES Hospital, Bengaluru and will provide training for all Robotic Surgeries across specialities to all KIMS branches in India.

This collaboration will establish 25 robotic surgery programs featuring da Vinci robotic-assisted surgical systems in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, with a focus on expanding access to advanced minimally invasive surgical care in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

The da Vinci systems will be deployed in key locations, including Nagpur, Nashik, and Thane in Maharashtra; Bengaluru in Karnataka; and Secunderabad, Begumpet, Kondapur, and Gachibowli in Telangana. In Andhra Pradesh, the da Vinci systems will be located in cities including Visakhapatnam, Srikakulam, Rajahmundry, Ongole, Kurnool, Nellore, and Anantapur.

KIMS Hospitals is committed to increasing access to quality care through patient-centric systems and processes. Through this collaboration with Intuitive, KIMS Hospitals seeks to enhance the availability of advanced surgical technology across geographies where access has been limited, ensuring that no patient is denied treatment due to economic limitations.

Commenting on the collaboration, Dr. Bollineni Bhaskar Rao, Chairman, and Managing Director of KIMS Hospitals, said, "This collaboration with Intuitive signifies an important step in KIMS Hospitals' commitment to expanding our capabilities and improving patient outcomes through minimally invasive care. By broadening access to advanced technologies like robotic-assisted surgery, we aim to improve care for patients across tier 2 and tier 3 cities in India. In addition, we plan to offer robotic-assisted surgical training to medical students in our associated colleges and institutes, further contributing to the future of healthcare in the region."

Gary S. Guthart, Chief Executive Officer of Intuitive, remarked, "Intuitive is honored to support KIMS Hospitals in achieving their objectives of improving patient care and expanding patient access to high quality, innovative minimally invasive care. Our collaboration aims to bring advanced robotic technologies to areas that may previously have lacked access, aligning with our mission to make high-quality surgical care accessible to a wider range of patients.”

There are currently over 170 da Vinci systems installed across India, with more than 850 surgeons trained in robotic-assisted surgery in specialties such as gynecology, urology, general surgery, and oncology. Collectively, there have been more than 14 million da Vinci procedures performed globally to date, with more than more than 38000 scientific articles referencing Intuitive’s technologies underscoring the safety, efficacy, and benefits of surgery performed with the da Vinci system, including fewer complications and conversions, and faster patient recovery.

Intuitive is committed to driving advancements in surgical care by collaborating with medical associations, government institutions, and private hospitals to expand training, generate local clinical evidence, and optimize healthcare programs.

As part of this collaboration, Intuitive India will provide comprehensive technology training, customer service and support to surgeons and care teams associated with KIMS Hospitals.  

ZEVO Secures $2 Million In Pre-Series A Funding From, Pegasus, BizDateUp, JIIF & Family Office

-       Investment to Drive Deployment of 5,000 Electric Vehicles, Fulfillment Centers, and Technological Advancements

ZEVO, a powerhouse tech-enabled EV mobility platform, has successfully raised $2 million in a Pre-Series A funding round. The investment was led by Pegasus India Fund, BizDateUp, JIIF and a family office, marking a significant milestone in ZEVO’s journey towards revolutionizing the electric vehicle supply chain and logistics industry.

The newly acquired funds will be strategically utilized to deploy 5,000 electric vehicles and develop state-of-the-art fulfilment centres across key locations. This initiative aligns with ZEVO's commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities and meeting the growing demand for sustainable, efficient, and reliable logistics solutions.

ZEVO is set to upgrade its technological infrastructure, ensuring cutting-edge solutions are in place to optimize logistics and supply chain management. The company plans to expand its footprint to new cities and strengthen its presence in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, bringing sustainable mobility solutions to a broader audience.

Aditya Singh Ratnu, CEO of ZEVO, expressed his enthusiasm about the funding round, stating, "This investment is a testament to the confidence our investors have in our vision and the significant impact we are making in the EV industry. With these funds, we aim to accelerate our growth, enhance our technological capabilities, and expand our reach, ultimately driving the adoption of electric vehicles in India. At ZEVO, we are committed to pioneering a new era of sustainable logistics, where efficiency meets environmental responsibility. Our mission is to redefine the industry standards, and this funding will help us get closer to achieving that goal."

Dhruv Bhatia, Co-Founder of ZEVO stated: “This funding marks a pivotal step in our journey to revolutionize the EV supply chain. Our focus on deploying advanced technologies and expanding our footprint into tier 2 and tier 3 cities is driven by a commitment to sustainable growth and innovation. We believe this infusion of capital will not only accelerate our mission but also set new benchmarks for efficiency and reliability in the industry.”

Meet Jain, Co-Founder of BizDateUp, added, "At BizDateUp, we focus on identifying businesses that have the potential to create lasting change, and ZEVO stands out as a key player in the EV mobility space. This investment is not just about financial support but about partnering with a company that is set to redefine logistics with its sustainable solutions. Recently, the Union Transport Minister highlighted India's potential to become the top exporter of electric two-wheelers, and we believe that ZEVO is well-positioned to contribute to this vision. We are excited to be part of ZEVO’s journey as they expand their electric fleet and help drive the transition to a greener, more efficient future for the logistics industry."

Looking ahead, ZEVO is in talks to raise $20 million by January 2025. This future investment will further bolster the company's efforts to lead the EV supply chain market and achieve its ambitious growth and sustainability goals to have 2,00,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2030.

Founded by visionary entrepreneurs, ZEVO is committed to redefining the standards of the electric vehicle industry. The company operates a comprehensive fleet of electric vehicles, catering to diverse delivery needs with a strong focus on operational efficiency and sustainability. ZEVO’s innovative approach and strategic partnerships are driving a new era of zero-emission logistics solutions in India.

Zoom Phone Now Available In Indian Market

* Multinational organizations and businesses can now have access to Zoom India’s first cloud phone solution licensed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) India 

Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZM) today announced the launch of its industry-leading Zoom Phone in India, commencing with the availability of Zoom Phone service with native India phone numbers in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle (Pune). Zoom Phone brings multinational corporations (MNCs) with a domestic presence and homegrown companies unrivaled simplicity and modern functionality to their distributed hybrid workforce, as well as global native coverage in 50 countries and territories.  

The native phone number support will be available starting with the Maharashtra Telecom Circle (Pune), followed by Karnataka (Bangalore), Tamil Nadu (Chennai), Andhra Pradesh (Hyderabad), Mumbai and Delhi telecom circles, covering all the major technology centers in India.  

Zoom India received the Unified License with Access — All/PAN India and Long Distance licenses from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, in April 2023. Thereafter, Zoom India focused on establishing its dedicated domestic infrastructure for Zoom Phone in India and complying with regulatory requirements. This effort enables Zoom to lead the industry with the launch of the first-of-its-kind licensed cloud private branch exchange (PBX) service bundled with local phone numbers for India. 

“Zoom’s cloud PBX service meets the requirements of India’s Unified Telecom license which requires building the dedicated local interconnection infrastructure in accordance with the regulatory requirements. This demonstrates Zoom’s commitment to bringing a trusted service that our customers want,” said Velchamy Sankarlingam, president of product and engineering, Zoom. “Globally, Zoom Phone saw continued expansion in the market, amassing five Zoom Phone customers with 100k+ seats in Q1 FY25,  demonstrating our customers’ trust in Zoom for critical employee and customer experience processes. Our latest offering reaffirms Zoom’s leadership in delivering seamless cloud services on a global scale, enhanced by local investments to help ensure compliance and service excellence in every market, including India.”

With an intuitive and familiar interface, Zoom Phone offers reliable, secure, and flexible voice communication features that seamlessly integrate with Zoom Workplace, the company’s open collaboration platform with Zoom AI Companion. Zoom Phone provides local telephony services and is available as an add-on to Zoom's existing paid customers. With support for inbound and outbound calling through the public switched telephone network (PSTN), enterprise customers can seamlessly replace their existing PBX solution and consolidate their business communication requirements into one platform.

“We are excited to bring Zoom Phone to India, first rolling it out in the Maharashtra Telecom Circle (Pune), empowering multinational enterprises and homegrown companies of all sizes to support dynamic workstyles, improve employee engagement, and elevate the customer experience,” said Sameer Raje, general manager and head of India & SAARC region, Zoom. “The launch of Zoom Phone marks a significant milestone in Zoom’s commitment to the Indian market. This achievement represents our dedication to delivering a reliable collaboration platform that powers limitless human connection and solves real business problems for our customers.”

In addition to its comprehensive features, Zoom Phone is now boosted with AI Companion capabilities to enhance call productivity. Users can request post-call summaries and next steps, allowing them to focus on conversations instead of taking notes. Voicemail prioritization elevates urgent messages, moving them to the top of the queue, while voicemail task extraction delivers tasks from voicemails, helping users understand the next steps without listening to every message. Zoom Phone integrates with leading business applications, contact center partners, and hardware providers, offering an all-in-one collaboration platform for MNCs with a domestic presence and businesses of all sizes. 

“The availability of Zoom Phone is timely, reflecting the trend of strong demand for Unified Communications as a Service solutions integrated with telephony in India. By offering a single platform with enterprise-class features, Zoom Phone addresses the growing modern collaboration needs of local companies and global businesses with presence in India as they look to unify their employee and customer communication channels with a solid foundation in voice,” said Krishna Baidya, senior industry director, Frost & Sullivan. “In addition to streamlining communications with one platform, Zoom Phone stands out with its scalability, security, and user-friendly interface.” 

To learn more about Zoom Phone, visit the Zoom Phone page. 

About Zoom

Zoom’s mission is to provide one platform that delivers limitless human connection. Reimagine teamwork with Zoom Workplace — Zoom’s open collaboration platform with AI Companion empowers teams to be more productive. Together with Zoom Workplace, Zoom’s Business Services for sales, marketing, and customer care teams, including Zoom Contact Center, strengthen customer relationships throughout the customer lifecycle. Founded in 2011, Zoom is publicly traded (NASDAQ:ZM) and headquartered in San Jose, California. Get more information at zoom.com.

Bringing Gold To The Masses: Moneyview Partners With CaratLane To Offer Digital Gold

Moneyview, a leading financial services platform set to strengthen Moneyview’s comprehensive suite of financial services with its latest service offering, Digital Gold, in partnership with India’s leading omni-channel jewellery brand, CaratLane. This collaboration aims to simplify gold investments by providing a user-friendly platform where consumers can buy, sell, and store gold digitally. Through its partnership with CaratLane, Moneyview brings its customers access to high-quality 24K gold, backed by assured purity and transparency.

Gold has been a cornerstone of savings and investment for Indians. However, traditional gold investments often involve high entry barriers and physical storage challenges. Digital gold, on the other hand, allows fractional ownership of gold while making it accessible to a wider range of customers. With low entry ticket size, digital gold reduces the financial burden associated with traditional gold investments, making it a more attractive savings option for many. Moneyview and CaratLane are set to redefine the digital gold investment landscape in India, offering customers a trusted, hassle-free way to invest in a timeless asset.

Speaking about the partnership, Sushma Abburi, Chief Business Officer of Moneyview, said, "As we evolve in our multi-product journey, our mission is to provide access to different savings and investment options for our customers for them to manage and grow their finances efficiently. Our partnership with CaratLane allows us to offer a trusted and accessible gold investment option that resonates with India's evolving digital consumers. Our partnership has come at the right time considering the festive season in India begins, a period known for increased gold investments. We are excited to provide an effortless digital gold experience, ensuring that our customers have more choices when it comes to securing their financial future. This partnership strengthens our position as a leading platform providing safe and secure investment options in one app."

Atul Sinha, Chief Operating Officer of CaratLane, commented, “The whole point of building the digital gold business is to provide a simpler, cost effective solution to consumers who buy and gift gold for future jewellery purchases.  Today most of such customers buy gold coins. This partnership can give those digital gold buyers an option to redeem that gold for beautiful jewellery. We feel that we can combine our capabilities and provide a wonderful experience and great value to Moneyview's customers.”

This partnership enhances Moneyview’s SuperApp by integrating the flexibility of digital gold investments while reinforcing its commitment to providing Indians with a range of cutting-edge financial solutions under one roof.

About Moneyview:

Moneyview, founded by Puneet Agarwal and Sanjay Aggarwal in 2014 is a leading financial services company headquartered in Bengaluru that focuses on leveraging technology to provide accessible financial services to every Indian with a smartphone. With the support of data and technology, Moneyview currently offers personal loans, personal finance management solutions, and credit trackers and will be launching a suite of other financial products as well. A series-E funded company, Moneyview is backed by investors like Apis partners, Tiger Global, Accel Partners, and Ribbit amongst others. Moneyview strives to empower individuals through inclusive financial solutions that promote financial health and stability.

About CaratLane:

CaratLane - a Tanishq Partnership, India’s first omni-channel jewellery brand with 280+ stores across 120+ cities, was founded in 2008 by Mithun Sacheti and Srinivasa Gopalan with a simple but courageous objective – to make beautiful jewellery accessible, affordable and forever wearable. The driving force behind all of CaratLane's efforts is its purpose of enabling people to express their emotions. Through its unique designs and innovative technological interventions, it aims to be a meaningful part of every celebration in the modern woman’s life.

87% Of Professionals In Bengaluru Seek More Guidance Than Ever To Stay Ahead At Work

* Key focus areas include integrating AI at work and adapting to flexible working

* Videos are the most popular medium for gaining professional knowledge

* Professionals are turning to LinkedIn for the tools and insights to navigate change and stay ahead

Professionals in Bengaluru are realising how quickly work is changing with 87% looking for more guidance and support than ever before, according to new research from LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network.

As jobs evolve, the biggest opportunity for workers in India is integrating AI into daily tasks (40%). 61% of professionals in Bengaluru are convinced that getting ahead in their career now depends on their comfort with AI. In response, the use of LinkedIn Learning courses focused on AI aptitude has spiked by 117% among non-technical professionals over the past year.

LinkedIn data shows a 123% increase in posts mentioning flexible work* over the last two years, highlighting how this continues to be top of mind for workers as companies evolve their return-to-office (RTO) strategies.

Professionals recognise that experience alone isn’t enough

64% of professionals in the city acknowledge the need for continuous learning with 43% believing that upskilling is essential for career growth. According to the research, 62% seek guidance on the skills needed to navigate workplace change. Many are learning about tech advancements (45%), sector-specific market analysis (38%), social trends (38%) to stay informed and prepared for future opportunities.

Video is the most popular format for professionals to gain knowledge

55% of professionals in Bengaluru find short-form videos easy to engage with, while 51% prefer long-form video courses focused on specific skills, considering them the most helpful. Professionals particularly value videos with anecdotes and learnings (53%), and unscripted podcast conversations (46%), which help them make informed professional decisions and evaluate career prospects.

Searching for solutions to stay ahead

Professionals are turning to LinkedIn for the knowledge and skills to help them adapt to the rapid changes in the workplace. With expert insights, AI-powered coaching, and real-time news, LinkedIn has the tools they need to stay ahead.

Nirajita Banerjee, Career Expert and Head of Editorial, LinkedIn India says, “With AI and hybrid work models changing how we work, staying informed about the latest industry trends is now more important than ever. Today, 8 out of 10 (79%) workers in Bengaluru are already turning to industry leaders and peers for advice—recognising the value of proactively seeking professional knowledge. Embracing this mindset, staying curious, and continuously developing new skills can set you up for success and help you stay ahead of change.”

LinkedIn Career Expert tips for adapting to change and staying ahead:

Stay on top of change: Topics like AI and hybrid work are changing constantly. By staying up-to-date with the latest news and insights from trusted experts, such as LinkedIn Top Voices, you can better understand how these developments impact your daily work and what they might look like in the future.

Adopt a growth mindset: Change is hard and it’s okay to feel nervous, but try to approach the process with an open mind. With a willingness to learn, you can build knowledge in areas that will make navigating change easier. Take AI, for instance. Practising prompt writing or using AI to take meeting notes will make it easier to use these tools in the future. LinkedIn has unlocked a series of Learning Courses such as Building an Adaptability Mindset in the Age of AI for free until 25th November 2024 and is also offering two complimentary professional certificates on Gen AI until the end of 2025. 

Embrace bitesize learning: Find easier ways to acquire new skills and knowledge so continuous learning feels more manageable. Professionals find short-form video the most helpful and engaging when looking for information – and it's rapidly growing on LinkedIn, with video uploads up 34% year-over-year.

LinkedIn data methodology

*Data measured from September 2022 to September 2024 of posts mentioning the keyword “flexible work” on LinkedIn. Incorporates global English-only posts.

**Indicates growth in unique LinkedIn learners during the time period. LinkedIn Learning courses are identified which are tagged and can be used to develop one of LinkedIn's taxonomy of 139 AI skills. Members who consumed these LinkedIn Learning courses are referred to as learners with AI aptitude. Non-technical functions exclude members mapped to one of the following functions: 'Engineering', 'Information Technology', 'Research', 'Education', 'Business Development' based on LinkedIn taxonomy.

Consumer research methodology

This research was conducted by Censuswide, with 2,142 professionals in full-time or part-time employment in India between September 2 to September 11, 2024. Censuswide abide by and employ members of the Market Research Society which is based on the ESOMAR principles. Censuswide are members of the British Polling Council. 

About LinkedIn

LinkedIn connects the world’s professionals to make them more productive and successful and transforms the way companies hire, learn, market, and sell. Our vision is to create economic opportunity for every member of the global workforce through the ongoing development of the world’s first Economic Graph. LinkedIn has over 1 billion members and has offices around the globe. www.linkedin.com / mobile.linkedin.com.

IMDb Celebrates Top 250 Indian Movies Of All Time

IMDb (www.imdb.com), the world’s most popular and authoritative source for information on movies, TV shows, and celebrities, has reached 250,000 followers on its India Instagram handle, launched in October 2022. Entertainment fans across the country rely on the IMDb India social media handles to learn who and what is trending, discover new content, and decide what and where to watch. To celebrate this milestone, IMDb has designed a limited edition collectible poster of the Top 250 Highest Rated Indian Movies of all time, which will be presented as a gift to select entertainment industry leaders. Additionally, IMDb India will host a contest on Instagram, giving select fans the opportunity to win this coveted poster. Head to the IMDb India Instagram to learn more about the contest. 

The IMDb Top 250 Highest Rated Indian Movies list is a collection of the highest-rated Indian films, which allows fans to celebrate and discover groundbreaking new films, as well as classics from all decades, genres, and regions. Titles on this dynamic list are determined by ratings from IMDb users who regularly vote on IMDb. 

Notably, the current No. 1 movie on the list is 2023’s critically-acclaimed 12th Fail. Alongside contemporary hits like Maharaja, Kantara, and Laapataa Ladies, the list also features classics such as Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Pariyerum Perumal, and Pather Panchali, showcasing the diversity of Indian cinema. Together, the 250 movies on the list have received more than 8.5 million votes on IMDb. 

Here are the top 20 titles from the list, as of September 22, 2024: 

12th Fail

Gol Maal

Nayakan

Maharaja

Apur Sansar

Anbe Sivam

Pariyerum Perumal

3 Idiots

#Home

Manichitrathazhu

Black Friday

Kumbalangi Nights

Rocketry: The Nambi Effect

777 Charlie

Kireedam

C/o Kancharapalem

Taare Zameen Par

Sandesham

Dangal

Laapataa Ladies

It is noteworthy that five titles from 2024, including Maharaja, Maidaan, The Goat Life, Laapataa Ladies, and Manjummel Boys, are on the list. The earliest movie on the list is Satyajit Ray’s classic Pather Panchali, released in 1955. 

With seven titles, director Mani Ratnam has the highest number of movies on the list, followed by Anurag Kashyap with six titles. 

Interestingly, the list also includes six movies along with their sequels: Drishyam (Malayalam) and Drishyam 2 (Malayalam), Drishyam (Hindi) and Drishyam 2 (Hindi), Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. and Lage Raho Munna Bhai , Jigarthanda and Jigarthanda DoubleX , K.G.F: Chapter 1 and K.G.F: Chapter 2 and Baahubali: The Beginning and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion .

Sharing his excitement about 12th Fail topping the list, Vikrant Massey reflected on the most touching scene from the film. He said, “The scene I want to highlight is the champi sequence between Manoj and his mother, which was a pivotal moment in the film when Manoj comes to the realization that his grandmother has passed. What makes it special is the amount of planning and production that goes into shooting even a single shot. In this scene, in the background, there’s a door with magic light—the brief period when day meets night, lasting only 5 to 7 minutes. Vidhu Vinod Chopra sir and DOP Rangarajan Ramabadran designed this master shot months in advance. On set, we actors had to be precise, as we had only those few minutes to capture it. Geeta ji and I chose not to use glycerin for this emotionally taxing scene, opting instead to feel as close to the moment as possible. It was a scene where we were required not to cry, but weep. So, it was a big challenge. It took several rehearsals, but we managed to pull it off.”

To view the Top 250 Highest Rated Indian Movies list, click here. Entertainment fans can follow the IMDb India Instagram handle @IMDb_in to stay up to date on Indian movies, TV shows, and celebrities. 

About IMDb 

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Tanuj Virwani Shares Incident Regarding How He Got Stranded In Georgia Looking For Sneaker Brand Worn By Shah Rukh Khan

* Tanuj Virwani Spoke About This Hilarious Incident On Zee Café’s New Show  ‘Just Talk Sneakers’

Popular actor Tanuj Virwani, who recently welcomed a baby girl, made quite an entertaining appearance on Zee Café’s latest show, Just Talk Sneakers. As the guest on the inaugural episode of this unique chat show, which dives into the world of sneakers and sneakerheads, Tanuj shared a funny story that had everyone in splits.

“I was shooting for a show in Tbilisi, Georgia, when I discovered a brand called Golden Goose. I had heard that the king himself, Shah Rukh Khan wears it but had no idea one could get it in this small town.”  Tanuj recalled.

Excited, he tracked down a store, even though it was quite far from the shoot location. His love for sneakers made him venture out during one of his breaks from the shoot. Determined to get his hands on this brand, he made his way to this non-descript place where apparently the store was. However, midway through the drive, the car ran out of fuel, leaving Tanuj stranded in the middle of nowhere. The driver hurried off to get petrol, while Tanuj stressed firstly about making it to the store and secondly but most importantly returning back on the sets. After a tense wait, the driver emerged with fuel and they finally made it to the store, only to find out that it catered only to women. But as luck would have it, the storekeeper pointed out that he did have pairs for men but only 3 were in stock. 

While Tanuj’s frustration was seeping in, he suddenly decided to just pick the only three pairs available without trying and rush back to his shoot. 

As Tanuj recalled, “Only people close to me know about my deep love for sneakers. I purchase them from every corner of the world and showcase them like a prized trophy. However, this quest for looking for SRKs favourite brand led me to buy shoes of a smaller size. The choice was between returning back empty handed or coming back with a size smaller, so but obviously I chose the latter” he quipped. 

He further added, “ I had to flaunt the babies so wore them the next day itself. I cut my toe nails, and squeezed my foot to get into it. My walk was indeed a sight to behold ..ha ha. But such is my love for sneakers.”

This is just one of the many entertaining stories Tanuj shared on Just Talk Sneakers. Catch the premiere episode on 6th October at 8:30 pm on Zee Café, with new episodes dropping every Sunday. You can also watch it on Zee Café’s YouTube channel.

Sony India Establishes ‘Cinema Is Coming Home’ Concept For BRAVIA Televisions, Stamped By S.S. Rajamouli’s Cinematic Vision

1.    BRAVIA ‘Cinema is Coming Home’ delivers a seamless, immersive movie experience at home

2.    Mr. S.S. Rajamouli champions Sony's 'Cinema is Coming Home' concept for an immersive home viewing experience

3.    BRAVIA FY24 lineup delivers an immersive cinematic experience at home with enhanced picture and sound quality

Sony India proudly announces a significant moment in home entertainment with the introduction of ‘Cinema is Coming Home’ concept. This innovative vision is designed to uplift how consumers enjoy movies at home, merging Sony's cutting-edge technology with a rich cinematic experience. With the endorsement of acclaimed filmmaker Mr. S.S. Rajamouli, this association promises to redefine how Indians watch movies at home.

1.    BRAVIA ‘Cinema is Coming Home’ delivers a seamless, immersive movie experience at home

Building on the decades of operating at the heart of the professional film production equipment development as well as film production and distribution, Sony is in a unique position that allows it to utilise its unparalleled film industry, professional equipment, and consumer electronics experience with its pioneering BRAVIA television and BRAVIA Theatre home audio devices to create this seamless cinematic experience.

The Cinema is Coming Home concept is not just a product launch but a lifestyle transformation for movie lovers, allowing them to recreate cinema like experience in the comfort of their homes. This concept is important for three key reasons, first and foremost is cinematic picture and sound. Thanks to advanced picture and audio technology in BRAVIA televisions, we are now able to express a vividness and a sense of immersion that conventional televisions cannot. Next is Studio Calibration, wherein collaboration with Netflix, Prime Video and Sony Pictures Core, we provide the picture quality as intended by their creators. Lastly, there is the high-quality film experience where BRAVIA incorporates cinema-derived technologies such as IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision and Atmos.

Mr. Sunil Nayyar, Managing Director, Sony India said, “With ‘Cinema is Coming Home,’ we are bringing to life the filmmaker’s vision in the most authentic way possible. Our BRAVIA products are designed to deliver the ultimate cinema experience, combining dazzling picture quality with immersive sound that resonates with the soul of movie enthusiasts”.

2.    Mr. S.S. Rajamouli champions Sony's 'Cinema is Coming Home' concept for an immersive home viewing experience

Mr. S.S. Rajamouli, acclaimed filmmaker, advocated Sony's 'Cinema is Coming Home' concept, underscoring its role in providing a genuine viewing experience for film lovers. Partnering with Sony India, Mr. Rajamouli stresses the necessity of experiencing movies in their authentic form, asserting that the BRAVIA televisions enables audiences to fully engage with the magic and emotion of cinema from their own living rooms. With exceptional picture quality and immersive sound, Sony’s groundbreaking products are designed to bring the filmmaker’s vision to life, revolutionizing how viewers connect with their favourite films and transforming every home into a cinematic haven.

Mr. S.S. Rajamouli, acclaimed filmmaker said, “I wholeheartedly endorse Sony’s 'Cinema is Coming Home' concept, as it resonates with my vision as a filmmaker. This concept redefines the home viewing experience, enabling audiences to truly immerse themselves in the authentic essence of cinema. With the new BRAVIA series, viewers can enjoy stunning picture quality and immersive sound, transforming their living rooms into a genuine cinematic haven. It’s not just about watching a film; it’s about experiencing the magic and emotion of storytelling in the comfort of home.”

Talking about the association, Mr. Nayyar added, “I am fully convinced that Mr. S.S. Rajamouli is the best person to effectively communicate Sony’s ‘Cinema is Coming Home’ concept to our customers.”

3.    BRAVIA FY24 lineup delivers an immersive cinematic experience at home with enhanced picture and sound quality

Sony has meticulously crafted the new BRAVIA 9, 8, 7, and 3 series, bringing the magic of the big screen right into living rooms. The flagship BRAVIA 9 series lead the line-up with Backlit MasterDrive and high peak luminance, supreme contrast, and natural colours, delivering a breathtakingly realistic viewing experience. Paired with the newly launched BRAVIA Theatre Bar 8, BRAVIA Theatre Bar 9 and Bravia Theatre Quad, consumers will experience cinematic sound and picture quality in a way that has never been seen before in home entertainment system. To increase customer brand recognition of BRAVIA and to help customers better understand our products, we have introduced marketing names in addition to model names and changed our naming rules.

Sony India is offering exciting promotional offers on BRAVIA televisions and home theatres, making it the perfect time for customers to bring home the luxury of cinema.

·         3 years comprehensive warranty on select BRAVIA televisions

·         Instant cashback of up to Rs.25,000/-

·         One free EMI on select range of BRAVIA televisions

·         Single combo EMI scheme for televisions and soundbar starting from 2,995/-

·         Discount of up to Rs. 64,990/- on unique combo purchase of select BRAVIA televisions along with BRAVIA Theatre soundbar combo

With a strong product lineup, endorsement from Mr. S.S. Rajamouli and exciting consumer promotion offers, Sony is confident to reinforce itself as a leader in the premium television segment in India.

About Sony India Pvt. Ltd.

Sony India Private Limited (Sony India), a private limited company with its ultimate holding company as Sony Group Corporation, Japan, has established itself as a premium brand in various product categories including television, digital imaging, personal audio, home entertainment, gaming, car audio, and professional solutions. The company places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and maintains high standards in sales and services. Sony also prioritizes environmental sustainability, aiming to achieve a zero environmental footprint throughout the lifecycle of its products and business activities to contribute to a healthier and enriched life for all of humanity and future generations.