Brigade REAP Invites Applications For COHORT 15, Paving The Way For PropTech Innovation

Brigade REAP, India’s pioneering real estate accelerator program with a focus on PropTech, has opened applications for its upcoming Cohort 15, the focus sectors for which include Real Estate Development, Construction Technology, Sustainability, Data Analytics, Sales and CRM, Real Estate Investment, Hospitality, Smart Retail, Urban Tech, and Smart City Solutions. Brigade REAP is accepting applications until November 15, 2023, and the shortlisted startups will be onboarded for mentoring in January 2024.

"At Brigade REAP, we take pride in nurturing startups that excel in groundbreaking technologies on a global stage. As we open applications for the 15th cohort, we eagerly anticipate new technologies and innovations that these startups bring to the table. We are committed to empowering startups in creating not just innovative solutions but also building futuristic sustainable and scalable businesses, while handholding through their go-to-market strategy. " Keshav Jain, Head of Investments, Brigade REAP.

Eligible startups must be incorporated in India, be at the pre-seed stage; be actively solving significant challenges within the real estate ecosystem and have reached at least the minimum viable product stage.

To apply for Cohort 15, please visit the website - brigadereap.com

About BRIGADE REAP:

Brigade Real Estate Accelerator Program (REAP) started in 2016 was recognised by Startup India as the No 1 accelerator program in the country. Within a year of commencement of the program, Brigade REAP has been recognized amongst the Top #3 Real Estate accelerators in the world! Its success over the past 6 years has established the emergence of PropTech as a critical sector for India’s progress. Started in October 2016, the main objective of Brigade REAP is to understand the challenges faced by the Real Estate sector and then identify, nurture and validate solutions by innovative startups that can then catalyse the rapid adoption of technology by the sector, helping deliver significant cost savings, revenue maximization and overall process efficiencies. Through its well-established network of over 50 veteran mentors, domain experts, investor access, deep industry relationships, corporate partnerships, access to a structured program, & the expertise of in-house mentors, REAP startups are adding value to India’s Real estate developers- both big and small. 

Sustainable City Hopping This Dussehra: Explore The Best Weekend Getaways From Bengaluru And Chennai

Embark on an unforgettable holiday experience this upcoming long weekend, embracing the vibrant spirit of Dussehra. Let this weekend be a blend of leisure, cultural exploration and festive joy, creating cherished memories in the heart of the holiday season.  

Traveling from Bengaluru and Chennai 

Tirupati- In Tirupati, embrace a spiritual journey by visiting the renowned Sri Venkateswara Temple atop the sacred Tirumala Hills, a pilgrimage destination for millions. Experience the divine atmosphere and partake in rituals that have been observed for centuries. Don't miss a visit to the Akasaganga Teertham waterfall and explore the lush surroundings, adding a natural touch to your spiritual sojourn in this culturally rich city. 

Puducherry- Puducherry, with its French colonial influence and serene coastal ambience, invites visitors to stroll through the charming streets of White Town, where colonial architecture meets vibrant Tamil culture. Relax by the picturesque Promenade Beach, offering a tranquil escape along the Bay of Bengal. Dive into the spiritual atmosphere at Auroville, an experimental township, and explore the unique blend of cultural diversity that defines this coastal town in southern India. 

Getting there: Book NueGo’s premium AC electric bus services starting from Chennai’s Koyumbedu to Puducherry and Tirupati and from Bengaluru’s Majestic to Tirupati 

This long weekend, choose your perfect holiday getaway and celebrate this Dussehra in a safe and sustainable way by availing NueGo’s premium AC electric bus services to travel and unwind. The tickets can be easily booked through NueGo's official website https://nuego.in/ and other digital platforms such as, NueGo app, Redbus, Paytm, and Abhibus. NueGo offers a hassle-free payment experience through Paytm Wallet, Paytm UPI, net-banking, and credit/debit cards. 

The First-Ever BMW i7 M70 xDrive And The All-New BMW 740d M Sport Launched In India

* Unmatched ‘Power of Choice’ for all customers of BMW 7 - petrol, diesel, electric and an all-electric performance model.

* BMW i7 M70 xDrive: First all-electric M car to be launched in India, with 1,100 Nm of instantaneous torque.

* Exceptionally refined six-cylinder in-line diesel engine of the all-new BMW 740d.

* Extravagant opulence with Swarovski Crystal Headlights, BMW Individual Two-Tone Paint Finish & Full Leather Merino Upholstery.

* Best-in-Class Rear Seat Experience with 31.3” 8K Resolution BMW Theatre Screen & Executive Lounge Seating.

BMW India has launched the first-ever BMW i7 M70 xDrive along with the diesel variant of the all-new BMW 7 Series – 740d M Sport. The BMW 740d M Sport is locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai while the all-electric BMW i7 M70 xDrive is available as a completely built-up unit (CBU). Both these cars are available at all BMW India dealerships from today onwards.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “The all-new BMW 7 Series defines the ultimate luxury sedan and sets new standards of luxury and exclusivity. The 7 has bedazzled the high-end segment with its new design language, powerful dynamics, comfort and trailblazing digital experience. With the addition of the BMW i7 M70 xDrive and the BMW 740d M Sport, our flagship is now available as a petrol, diesel, electric and an all-electric performance model. This diversification allows us to cater to all customer preferences and meet the overwhelming demand for the 7 Series in the Indian market. As the vehicle of choice of leaders and luminaries with next-level style and substance, the 7 will continue to shape forwardism.”

Mr. Pawah added, “The BMW i7 M70 xDrive marks another milestone for BMW M GmbH in its electric mobility transformation. This all-electric performance model that now spearheads the BMW 7 Series range has a highly individual aura that signals outstanding dynamic performance and reveals its power potential at first glance. It delivers the perfect combination of electric mobility and performance, resulting in a driving experience unique in the luxury segment.”

The cars are available at an ex-showroom price of –

The all-new BMW 740d M Sport             -           INR 1,81,00,000

The first-ever BMW i7 M70 xDrive          -           INR 2,50,00,000

Price prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Ex-showroom prices inclusive of GST (incl. compensation cess) as applicable but exclude Road Tax, Tax Collected at Source (TCS), RTO statutory taxes/fees, other local tax cess levies and insurance. Price / options are subject to change without prior notice. For further information, contact an authorised BMW dealer.

The all-new BMW 740d M Sport is available in following paintworks – Oxide Grey, Mineral White, Black Sapphire, and BMW Individual Tanzanite Blue. The first-ever BMW i7 M70 xDrive is available in the two-tone paintworks along with BMW Individual paintwork as standard – Black Sapphire Roof or  Oxide Grey Roof paintwork are possible with BMW Individual Paintwork of customer’s choice. The choice of paintwork can be made online at BMW Visualizer.

Both 740d M Sport and i7 M70 xDrive are offered in BMW Individual Leather ‘Merino’ upholstery in Amarone, Tartufo, Mocha, Black and Smoke White. BMW Individual leather ‘Merino’ with exclusive contents is optionally available on the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, including Leather Merino - Cashmere Wool combination.

The car comes with standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometers. Repair Inclusive can extend warranty benefits from third year of operation to maximum fifth year without any mileage limitation. The high-voltage battery in BMW i7 M70 xDrive is covered by a warranty valid for eight years or up to 160,000 kilometers.

Thanks to BMW India Financial Services, customized and flexible financial solutions are designed as per individual requirements. Customers enjoy great value and complete peace of mind with BMW 360? Finance Plan. It includes attractive monthly instalments, assured buy-back option up to five years, flexible term-end opportunities, and options to upgrade to a new BMW among other benefits.

The all-new BMW 740d M Sport and the first-ever BMW i7 M70 xDrive

The powerfully expressive design features for the exterior of the new BMW 7 Series authentically reflect its central product attributes and the associated on-board experience. The headlights are divided into two parts. At the top are the daytime running lights, complete with the BMW Crystal Headlights. Their sparkling Swarovski crystals reflect ambient light in a multi-faceted way even when not illuminated, resulting in an impressive shimmering effect. Underneath are the LED headlights for high beam and low beam. Another distinguished feature is the strikingly illuminated BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille surround that lends an unmistakeable appearance.

The first-ever BMW i7 M70 xDrive features the BMW kidney grille which sports an M logo, underlining the range-topping model’s dynamic character. It is bordered by Black high-gloss surfaces, giving it even greater visual prominence. M-specific design features along the flanks and at the rear clearly showcase the performance character of the top-of-the-range model variant. Eye-catching M side skirts, M logos with embellished borders on the front side panels, M High-gloss Shadowline trim, black M exterior mirrors with twin-stalk design and M Sport brakes in blue add sporting flourishes. The car is specified with the standard M Performance package that features a black M rear spoiler, a black accent strip between the rear lights and an inlay – also in black – for the rear apron. The standard 21-inch M light-alloy wheels on the BMW i7 M70 xDrive feature an exclusive, aerodynamically optimised design.

In the interior, the innovative BMW Interaction Bar defines the revolutionary cockpit design. This backlit bar looks like a piece of crystal jewelry where air vents are integrated almost invisibly. Using this touch-enabled bar, passengers can also adjust ambient lighting, air conditioning as well as its appearance. Unique and innovative features in the rear take comfort to a new level. A key feature here is Rear Seat Entertainment Experience with BMW Theatre Screen. The 31.3-inch touch screen with 8K resolution extends down from the ceiling to turn the car into a mobile home cinema as the windows blinds and panorama glass roof automatically close. The Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System adds an extremely high-quality and multi-faceted sound experience to film watching in the rear of the new BMW 7 Series. It sets new standards in its segment not only with up to 36 speakers, of which four are integrated into the headliner, and amplifier output of 1,965 watts, but also in terms of sound quality. Another highlight is the 5.5-inch smartphone-style touchscreen control panels in the rear doors. The cars also offer the comfort-enhancing feature of automatic door opening and closing via just a touch on the door handles, the buttons in the BMW Interaction Bar or the rear door trim or the car key.

The BMW i7 M70 xDrive also gets the Carbon Fibre M interior trim with silver stitching/Piano Finish Black that adds to the overall experience inside the cabin. The BMW i7 M70 xDrive comes as standard with M-specific equipment details that accentuate its sporting flair and enhance its concentrated sense of driving pleasure. These include illuminated M door sills, M Merino leather trim in Black/Atlas Grey available as an option, an M leather steering wheel, M-specific content on the BMW Curved Display and an M driver’s footrest.  The electric all-wheel drive, the steering, the dampers and the driving stability systems are each underpinned by the M-specific application of all control systems, ensuring superbly judged driving characteristics in all situations.

The Executive Lounge Seating behind the front passenger reclines to 42.5 degrees, offering a true first-class experience thanks to multifunction seats, massage function, active seat ventilation and rear console. My Modes can be used to turn every journey into an individual experience by combining sound, light, temperature, suspension settings and seat functions to create a particular mood. Other than Personal Mode, Sport Mode and Efficient mode, the new BMW 7 Series is offered with multiple new modes: My Mode Relax, My Mode Theatre and My Mode Expressive. My Mode Relax combines calm images in the Control Display, seat massage and a gentle soundscape to encourage occupants to unwind. In addition, drivers can black out the window areas and the panoramic glass roof. In My Mode Theatre, the BMW Theatre Screen folds down, the interior is dimmed, and the seat moved into a comfortable viewing position. My Mode Expressive accentuates the driving experience with lively colours and patterns as well as BMW IconicSounds Electric.

Thanks to the unrivalled BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the diesel engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offers spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The three-litre six-cylinder diesel engine of the all-new BMW 740d M Sport produces an output of 210 kW / 286 hp and a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 1,500 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 6.0 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h.

An M-specific configuration of the drive system enables the BMW i7 M70 xDrive’s rear-axle motor, in particular, to achieve unprecedented levels of power density. The drive unit has a six-phase design with a dual inverter. This forms the basis for a very substantial increase in peak output that remains on tap up to high speeds, endowing the BMW i7 M70 xDrive with the power delivery characteristic of M models. The car instantly accelerates from 0 to 100 km/hr in 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/hr. It produces an output of 660 hp and a class-leading maximum torque of 1100 Nm. The extremely slim and high-voltage lithium-ion recyclable battery integrated in the floor has a net capacity of 101.7 kWh providing a range of up to 560 kms (WLTP). The BMW i7 M70 xDrive comes with a complimentary BMW Wallbox charger with installation. It can be integrated at home to enable safe and convenient charging up to 22kW.

The BMW i7 M70 xDrive is one of the brand's first models to feature the latest generation of BMW iDrive with "QuickSelect" and BMW Operating System 8.5. The advanced display and operating system offers a redesigned entry screen and "QuickSelect” access with an improved menu structure oriented towards consumer electronics devices. The new entry screen permanently shows the map view of the navigation system or other displays that can be individually configured. The cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps now not only offers an Augmented View display on the Information Display behind the steering wheel, but also improved functions for even more precise and charging station optimised navigation.

BMW ConnectedDrive technology includes BMW ID, MyBMW App, Digital Key Plus, Emergency Call, Real-time Traffic Information, Remote Services, smartphone parking and Amazon Fire TV. BMW iDrive with Operating System 8 on the BMW 740d offers all the possibilities for interaction between occupants and the vehicle – using touch, gesture or speech. It is complemented by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant system which has a self-learning intelligence that adopts a driver’s individual habits, proactively provides useful tips on new driving functions and seamlessly integrates smartphone apps.

The spread of Driver Assistance Systems is more extensive. They support the driver and also increase comfort and safety. Standard equipment includes functions like Cruise Control, Attentiveness Assistant, Parking Assistant Professional with remote parking via smartphone and Reversing Assistant. In the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, Integral Active Steering and the Executive Drive Pro suspension package including Active Roll Stabilisation with Active Roll Comfort also feature as standard equipment.

BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, ECO PRO mode, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution, Driving Experience Control switch and many other innovative technologies. The M Launch Control function in the BMW i7 M70 xDrive ensures the power generated by the electric motors is metered extremely precisely, allowing the drive system’s M-typical performance characteristics to be instantly converted into stunning acceleration without any loss of traction. The M Sport Boost function is activated with the shift paddle on the left of the steering wheel and is visualised by Performance-specific graphics in the instrument cluster. At the same time, the standard BMW IconicSounds Electric by Hans Zimmer provides a fitting acoustic accompaniment by switching to a particularly exhilarating, M Performance-specific note.

BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

ONGC Roadshow In Singapore: Collaboration Opportunities In Offshore Oil And Gas Projects

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is organizing a roadshow in Singapore on 19 and 20 October 2023, to invite global oil and gas companies for collaboration opportunities in offshore oil and gas projects. The Roadshow will offer valuable insights into business opportunities within India's offshore oil and gas infrastructure sector. The Roadshow is taking place in Hotel Pan Pacific, 7 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore.

In pursuit of strategic growth aligned with the evolving energy landscape, ONGC has meticulously designed an ambitious roadmap, the Energy Strategy 2040. This comprehensive plan reflects its resolute commitment to double oil and gas production, expand refining capacity, diversify into renewable energy, and bolster our non-oil and gas ventures.

To achieve substantial growth and diversify its energy portfolio, ONGC prioritizes the early monetization of discoveries through accelerated project execution. It is also making significant investments in Deepwater exploration, Improved Oil Recovery (IOR), and Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) projects, maximizing production efficiency and tapping untapped reserves.

Aligned with its growth plans, ONGC is embarking on an expedited development of multiple offshore fields over the next three years. Its objective is to establish more than 25 offshore facilities, lay over 1000 kilometers of subsea pipelines, and create associated infrastructure, requiring an investment of USD 11 billion.

As a trailblazer in India's energy sector since 1956, ONGC remains dedicated to providing dependable and sustainable energy solutions. Recognizing the vital role hydrocarbons will play in India's energy security and economic growth, ONGC looks forward to have a mutually beneficial relationship and long lasting partnership with its business partners.

BenQ Unveils Groundbreaking ScreenBar Halo - Revolutionizing Workspace Lighting For Enhanced

BenQ, a leading provider of advanced display technology solutions has launched the ScreenBar Halo, the ultimate desk companion that revolutionizes your workspace lighting, delivering a new era of clarity and comfort. This innovation not only champions minimalist aesthetics to optimize desktop space but also effectively tackles the common issues of screen glare and eye discomfort associated with traditional desk lamps. The ScreenBar Halo boasts a comprehensive array of features, including a multitude of ambient lighting modes, a wireless controller, and seamless adjustment of colour temperature and brightness. It is a meticulously crafted lighting solution aimed at mitigating eye strain and enhancing work efficiency.

The ScreenBar Halo is an innovative desk lighting solution designed for optimal eye comfort and enhanced productivity. Its unique asymmetrical lighting technology precisely directs light to your workspace, reducing screen glare and eye strain by up to 82% compared to traditional desk lamps. The innovative patented clamp ensures a solid connection to both flat and curved monitors, transforming it into an intelligent lamp with space-saving, anti-slip technology. It can also automatically adjust the brightness to meet the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 500 lux standards.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajeev Singh, Managing Director, BenQ India & South Asia, said, “At BenQ, our unwavering commitment to enhancing user experiences and pushing the boundaries of innovation is evident in the ScreenBar Halo. It redefines how we illuminate our workspaces; this revolutionary lighting solution embodies our dedication to providing optimal eye comfort and productivity. With its unique asymmetrical lighting, versatile features, and smart wireless controller with intuitive controls, we believe the ScreenBar Halo will set a new standard for workspace lighting, making it an indispensable tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike”

KEY HIGHLIGHTS:

* Adaptable Lighting Modes: ScreenBar Halo offers three distinct lighting modes tailored for various scenarios. The Precise Front Light keeps your focus on work, while the Immersive Back Light enhances leisure and entertainment. Front-and-back lights provide comprehensive eye-care illumination.

* Convenience at your fingertips: The ScreenBar Halo comes with a convenient and easy-to-use intuitive wireless controller that allows users to customize the lighting of their ScreenBar Halo monitor light to suit their needs.

* Precision Eye Comfort: The ScreenBar Halo brings a groundbreaking shift to workspace lighting through its distinctive asymmetrical lighting design, accurately channelling light to the required workspace, preventing screen glare, and decreasing eye strain. Laboratory experiments have unveiled a remarkable 82% decrease in screen glare when compared to conventional desk lamps.

* Customizable Color Temperatures: ScreenBar Halo boasts personalized lighting with adjustable colour temperatures, ranging from warm (2700K) to cool (6500K), catering to your specific work and relaxation needs. It also comes with a built-in light sensor which automatically detects the ambient light and adjusts the brightness automatically.

 * Effortless Setup and Versatile Functionality: The patented clamp guarantees a secure connection to your monitor, whether it's flat or curved, even in busy settings. It automatically senses ambient light sources to meet the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 500 lux brightness standards. The wireless controller streamlines adjustments, ensuring a smooth workflow.

The BenQ ScreenBar Halo is now available for purchase at the BenQ online brand store and on Amazon at an MRP of Rs.19,990. This Diwali, illuminate your desk setup with ScreenBar Halo at a festive period offer of Rs.15,990; For more information about the ScreenBar Halo, please visit BenQ India's official website.

About BenQ Corporation

Founded on the corporate vision of “Bringing Enjoyment ‘N’ Quality to Life”, BenQ Corporation is a world-leading human technology and solutions provider aiming to elevate and enrich every aspect of consumers’ lives. To realize this vision, the company focuses on the aspects that matter most to people today – lifestyle, business, healthcare, and education – with the hope of providing people with the means to live better, increase efficiency, feel healthier and enhance learning. Such means include a delightful broad portfolio of people-driven products and embedded technologies spanning digital projectors, monitors, interactive large-format displays, and lighting solutions. Because it matters.  

About BenQ Group

The BenQ Group is a $25+ billion powerhouse comprised of nearly 20 independent companies operating in over 30 countries across numerous industries with a combined workforce of over 100,000 employees.  Each Group member is a recognized leader in its field, contributing to the BenQ Group’s vast resources, broad R&D, and distinct strategic strengths.  By leveraging each company’s vertical specialization to create true scale across horizontal markets, the BenQ Group controls a highly efficient value chain with the unrivalled ability to deliver critical components and world-class solutions in the following industries: TFT-LCD, green energy, fine chemicals, and advanced materials, lighting, IC design, precision components, system integration, branded business, and service.  The Group is committed to profitable and sustainable businesses that share its long-standing vision of Bringing Enjoyment ‘N’ Quality to Life.

The BenQ Group companies are BenQ Corporation, AU Optronics Corporation (world’s top manufacturer of large-size TFT-LCD panels), Qisda Corporation, Darfon Electronics Corporation, BenQ ESCO Corp., BenQ Materials Corp., BenQ Guru Corp., BenQ Medical Center, BenQ Medical Technology Corp., BenQ AB DentCare Corp., BriView Co., Ltd., Daxin Materials Corp., Dazzo Technology Corp., Forhouse Corp., Lextar Electronics Corp., LILY Medical Corp., and Raydium Semiconductor Corp.

Dharmendra Pradhan Felicitates Winners Of WorldSkills Competition 2022, Launches IndiaSkills 2023-24

Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship felicitated 18 candidates from India, applauding their outstanding talents and skills displayed at the World Skills Competition 2022 Special Edition. India participated in 50 skills and secured 11th position with 2 Silver Medals, 3 Bronze Medals and 13 Medallion for Excellence. The winners and their expert trainers were honoured with certificates and cash prizes during a grand event.

The Hon’ble Minister, Shri Pradhan also took this momentous occasion to announce the commencement of IndiaSkills 2023-24, the nation's most significant and awaited National Skill Competition. With this, the candidates can enrol themselves on Skill India Digital platform. The event was graced by Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman UGC, Shri Krishna Kumar Dwivedi, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Prof. T. G Sitharam, Chairman AICTE, Ms Trishaljit Sethi, Director General (Training), and Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International.

WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition was the official replacement for WorldSkills Shanghai 2022, cancelled in May due to the pandemic. Deviating from its original format, the skill competitions were held over 12 weeks in 15 countries and regions between 7 September and 26 November 2022.

Winners of Silver Medals were rewarded with the cash prize of Rs. 8 lakh, while their experts received Rs. 3 lakh. The Bronze category winners were presented with Rs. 6 lakh, and their experts with Rs. 2 lakh. The candidates and experts who received the Medallion for Excellence were rewarded with cash prizes of Rs. 2 lakh and Rs. 1 lakh, respectively.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship said, “Under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, we have been giving equal importance to competencies, applied knowledge, and hands-on training to lead in the 21st century. The skill competitions represent a key component of our skilling system, enhancing the employability and market acceptance of India's youth, who play a pivotal role in nation-building. With the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 formalising the integration of skill development with education, I am confident that MSDE will broaden the canvas of India's participation in WorldSkills 2023-24 and finish within the top 10 positions. I urge industry, academia, and policymakers to work together and make skill development a jan-andolan (people's movement) for realizing the vision of making India a developed nation by 2047.”

At the event, the winners also shared their inspiring stories of how they fought against all odds, including the deadly pandemic, to travel to foreign countries and compete against the world’s best candidates in their respective trades, displaying unwavering determination and an undying passion. Their exuberance and enthusiasm have not only been a source of inspiration but also a driving force to encourage others to compete at both the state and national levels.

The 46th WorldSkills was originally planned for 2021 and was postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic. The special edition welcomed more than 400,000 visitors, over 84 days at 29 separate events. Almost 1,000 Competitors from 56 Member countries and regions competed in 62 skill competitions.

India participated in 50 skills with 56 competitors and 50 experts and witnessed 19% of female participation in skills which were traditionally performed by men like welding, plumbing and heating, CNC Milling, CNC Turning, Electronics, and Bricklaying. This is in alignment with Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of harnessing Nari Shakti for the development of the nation.

Team India also participated in six new future skills listed as under Industry 4.0, Robot System Integration, Additive Manufacturing, Renewable Energy, Mobile Applications Development, Digital Construction.

Furthermore, the transition from 39th position in World Skills Competition 2011 to 11th position in 2022 reflects the evolving need for multi-industry training among youth to broaden the horizons of their careers and equip the workforce with diverse skill sets to increase their employability in the current job market. Skill competitions are also breaking the gender barrier and significant number of female participations in skills traditionally performed by men like welding, plumbing & heating, CNC Milling, CNC Turning, Electronics, Bricklaying, Renewable Energy, Industry 4.0, Mechatronics, and Robot System Integration.

Additionally, the launch of India Skills Competition 2023-24 meets the aspiration of young India by promoting global standards of skills, providing competitiveness, and encouraging innovation. The competition will be held in more than 15 sectors including automotive, electronics, green jobs and manufacturing with competitors competing in trades like Autobody Repair, CNC Milling, Additive Manufacturing, Robot System Integration, Water Technology, and Renewable Energy.

Skill championships like WorldSkills or IndiaSkills are instrumental in advancing the careers of emerging professionals by offering them a platform to display their skills with perfection. It also facilitates cooperation among governments, industry, and academia to close the skill gap and prepare the youth for the ever-evolving job market. Going forward, such endeavours will be able to help the Indian youth attain world-class standards of competence, excellence, and productivity.

CityKart Celebrates Remarkable Growth In India, Eyes INR 100 Crores Investment & 25-30 New Stores By End Of FY 23-24

* The customer-centric & employee-friendly brand is leading by example through its permanent & temporary employment drives in India .

* It is also promoting a diversification ratio of approximately 15-20% to foster a dynamic & inclusive work environment.

CityKart, India's leading value retail chain, is thrilled to announce that it has attained remarkable growth and success in the Indian market, with the shopping platform eying an investment of up to INR 100 crores across India. Moreover, Citykart is all set to witness the opening up of 25-30 stores by end of FY 23-24, with the significant investment also contributing to the employment of 700-1000. 

The multi-faceted brand boasts a very impressive and diverse talent pool in India, with the current employee strength for each store standing more than 30-35 individuals. It stands as a customer-centric and employee-friendly retail destination, as it takes immense pride in fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment, promoting a diversification ratio of gender equality approximately 15-20%.

Having raised INR 105 crores to date for the expansion plan of attaining 300 stores by 2026, CityKart is aiming to capture a significant market share and become a bustling shopping hub for residents and fashion enthusiasts. Currently, it is operating 95 stores in 73 cities across 8 states.

Ritesh Rathi, COO, Citykart said, "We are thrilled to have experienced such tremendous growth and success in the Tier 2 and Tier 3 market. The  overwhelming response and acceptance  that we have received from our customers  has encouraged the entire Citykart team to expand our store presence and product offerings. We remain committed to providing an unmatched shopping experience, and we look forward to continuing to create an atmosphere that brings joy and celebration to our customers in India." 

Owing to its tremendous experience, CityKart has become a go-to shopping destination for men's, women's, and kids' apparel, Home Furnishing, and accessories, thereby capturing the hearts of residents and experiencing exponential growth in the region. Ever since entering the market, the company has witnessed spectacular expansion, with its dedication to community engagement and its unique value proposition perfectly resonating with customers and further propelling its successful journey in the city. The brand’s lineup includes Athiya, Nimes, Fumee, and Remise, each catering to specific fashion preferences.

Citykart is currently active in eight states and recently launched their 94th store in the country and the first store in West Bengal by opening a store at Kanchrapara (approx.30 km from Kolkata)  West Bengal. Furthermore, the company is planning to launch 9 more stores including the 100th store in Bihar and it will be the largest store in Bettiah spanning an impressive 17,000 sq feet. Anticipating a significant influx of customers during the festive, wedding, and winter seasons, the company is gearing up for an exciting period of growth and opportunity.