Monday, September 17, 2018

Mt. Litera Zee School to Compete for the National Title of HDFC ERGO Insurance Awareness Award Junior – Quiz 2018


HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, India’s leading non-life insurer, launched the 3rd season of their Insurance Awareness Award Quiz with the Semi-Final round in Bengaluru. The team from Mt. Litera Zee School won the Semi Final round in Bengaluru city, competing against 30 schools from Bengaluru. The winning team from Bengaluru will compete against 8 school teams from Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Ranchi and Pune in the Grand Finale to be held in Mumbai on 27th September 2018.

Last year, Padma Seshadri Bala Bhavan School from Chennai won the HDFC ERGO Insurance Awareness Award Junior – 2017, which was held in Mumbai last year.

As a part of the insurance awareness drive and a prelude to the quiz, HDFC ERGO representatives conducted townhalls in schools to impart basic knowledge on insurance, thereby helping students understand insurance as a life skillset. With this drive, HDFC ERGO reached out to more than 6,000 students of class 8th and 9th in Bengaluru, covering many leading schools like Mt. Litera Zee School, New Oxford English High School, JSS Public School, Kendriya Vidyalaya & many more.

Talking about the Bengaluru City Semi-Final Round of the HDFC ERGO Insurance Awareness Award Junior - Quiz, Mr. Mehmood Mansoori, Member of Executive Management & Group Head, HDFC ERGO General Insurance said, “The HDFC ERGO Insurance Awareness Award Junior – Quiz, is a drive to impart the insurance knowledge to the Generation Z, by making it fun in the form of quiz. In this 3rd season, we aim to reach out to more than 50,000 students across the 9 cities in the country. We are overwhelmed to witness the participation and preparation of the students in the Semi-Final Round held in Bengaluru.”

The HDFC ERGO Insurance Awareness Award Junior - Quiz is an awareness drive with the motive to take insurance knowledge among students across the country through an interesting format of a Quiz.

Mindtree, IIT Madras Partner to Establish an Endowed Faculty Fellow Position in Data Science and AI



Mindtree, a global technology services and digital transformation company, has partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras to set up a dedicated Faculty Fellow position in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. This endowment empowers the renowned academic institution, which has been at the forefront of developing the next-generation Digital Technology and Talent, with industry specific knowledge and resources to help create solutions to accelerate the growth and adoption of Data Science and AI globally.

Organizations across industries are continually striving to keep pace with the rapid technological transformation driven by AI, data analytics, and machine learning. Through this endowment, Mindtree will help accelerate the development of technology innovation in these fields.

IIT Madras has formalized a process to identify the faculty member who will be named to the Mindtree Faculty Fellow Position.

“Artificial Intelligence and Data Science are key priorities for our clients as these technologies offer immense potential to create new business opportunities” said Rostow Ravanan, CEO and Managing Director of Mindtree. “IIT Madras is one of the global leaders in this field and the collaboration between Mindtree and IIT Madras will help accelerate innovationand push the boundaries of knowledge.”

“Considering the speed with which technology is evolving, such partnerships are vital for the business ecosphere”, IIT Madras Director, Bhaskar Ramamurthi said stressing on the importance of such collaborations. He further added, “AI, Data Sciences, and Machine Learning are new territory for a majority of organizations, and a deep association with Mindtree will give our students and teachers valuable exposure to the industry’s needs.”

Mindtree will further extend the partnership with IIT Madras to include research projects focusing on related topics such as personalization, conversational interfaces and natural language generation.

Atlas Copco Launches ZR 90-160 VSD+ Air Compressor with up to 35% Less Energy Consumption


The latest oil-free rotary screw air compressor from Atlas Copco, the ZR 90-160 VSD+, delivers up to 35% energy savings for a fast return on investment. The new ZR is available with or without integrated dryer. Ideal for applications in the food & beverage, electronics, automotive, textile and pharmaceutical industries, the water-cooled ZR 90-160 VSD+ is equipped with two high-efficiency permanent magnet motors, state-of-the-art compressor elements, a new cooler design and an improved monitoring system. This plug-and-play compressor is housed in a compact, soundproof enclosure. It’s the latest air compressor in Atlas Copco’s smart AIR solutions portfolio.

The drive design of the ZR 90-160 VSD+ incorporates Atlas Copco’s most sophisticated Variable Speed Drive (VSD) technology: NEOS drives combined with permanent magnet motors. The dual motor concept with a smart control algorithm allows both elements to be run at different speeds, which optimizes efficiency. 

“By adjusting output to match actual needs, the ZR 90-160 VSD+ significantly cuts energy consumption, costs and environmental impact,” says Jeroen Hoen, Product Manager Oil-free compressors. “The internal IP66 water-cooled permanent magnet motors, designed for class-leading efficiency and high reliability, contain oil-lubricated bearings for a long maintenance-free lifetime. Moreover, all service parts are grouped together for ease of access for a minimal service time.”

All components in the compressor element, such as the rotor profiles, smart inlet (patent pending) and rotor coating, have been redesigned for maximum efficiency and durability. The design and sealing of the venting chamber ensure physical separation between the oil and air circuits, eliminating any possibility of oil entering the compressed air chamber and thus guaranteeing Class 0 oil-free air.

The redesigned cooler incorporates a highly efficient water separator. Parallel water flow optimizes cooling of the motor, element and the cooler itself. Enlarged stainless steel surface coolers improve cooling efficiency and ensure top performance over a long lifetime.

The NEOS drive communicates directly with the new, user-friendly Elektronikon® Mk5 Touch Controller to optimize system pressure and maximize energy efficiency. Mk5 Touch includes warning indications, maintenance scheduling and online visualization of the machine’s condition. The data monitoring program SMARTLINK is integrated as standard. This remote monitoring system provides analysis of the whole compressed air system on how you can reduce energy cost and plan your preventive maintenance. 

The full feature version is available with integrated MDG rotary drum dryer, providing a stable and guaranteed Pressure Dew Point of  -40°C/-40°F at almost zero energy cost.

The ZR 90-160 VSD+ works together with the Atlas Copco’s new Optimizer 4.0 central controller. It enables a compressed air system to be optimized through selection of the most efficient combination of air compressors while assuring supply of required pressure and having balanced running hours. Air dryers can also be monitored through Optimizer 4.0. With the highly intuitive user interface, the end-user can view the performance and energy consumption of each machine as well as of the whole system. Optimizer 4.0 can also be monitored through a customer’s PC. 

The ZR 90-160 VSD+ can be included in a Total Responsibility Plan, in which Atlas Copco takes care of all compressor maintenance, upgrades, repairs and possible breakdowns.

Hyperloop Transportation, Government Stakeholders Move Forward with Regulatory Framework


Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, leading testing, certification and inspection company TÜV SÜD, and Munich Re, one of the world’s leading providers of reinsurance, primary insurance and insurance-related risk solutions announced today the creation of the first set of Hyperloop core safety requirements and certification guidelines along with the first insurance framework for HyperloopTT worldwide systems. As construction moves forward at different locations around the world, HyperloopTT has reached key milestones on two of the biggest hurdles remaining for the new transportation system: regulation and insurance.

At a private meeting held at TÜV SÜD’s global headquarters in Munich, Germany, several of HyperloopTT’s partners and stakeholders, together with government representatives, were introduced to the first set of the new guidelines and products. Additionally, a roadmap for joint creation and adoption into a final legal framework for regulating the construction and safe operation of Hyperloop systems was discussed. In attendance were representatives from Ukraine, China, France, and the United States all of whom have existing agreements with HyperloopTT.

“TUV SUD has been working intensively with HyperloopTT over the past year,” said Ferdinand Neuwieser, CEO of TÜV SÜD Industrie Service GmbH. “As a global leader in this field, TÜV SÜD will contribute to making the innovative technology of Hyperloop reliable and safe. The potential risks for passengers and others will be reduced to a minimum. Furthermore the guideline will form a strong basis for standardization, regulation and certification of Hyperloop systems.” The final version of the guideline is expected to be published in Q1 2019.

“Last year we told the world that HyperloopTT’s system was insurable,” said Claudia Hasse, head of special enterprise risks at Munich Re. “We are now able to insure their first commercial projects around the world and are working together to include our services into HyperloopTT’s technology license.”

“Hyperloop will change transportation as we know it,” said Volodymyr Omelyan, minister of infrastructure of Ukraine. “It is our responsibility to make sure that future technologies are regulated and safe, and today represents the foundation of a safe and reliable commercial Hyperloop system.”

“The creation of regulations and legal frameworks are critical components to our ongoing feasibility study between Chicago and Cleveland,” said Grace Gallucci, executive director of Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency. ”We look forward to continuing to work alongside HyperloopTT and their partners to implement these guidelines and policies into a framework specific to the Great Lakes Hyperloop.”

“HyperloopTT is the first company to have an insurable commercial system,” said Dirk Ahlborn CEO of HyperloopTT. “We have proven the technology to be feasible at every level and through our work with these partners, stakeholders, and governments we are creating the safest, most secure system possible.”

“In order to bring Hyperloop to reality we have sought out and formed alliances with industry leaders to provide the complete solutions for our systems,” said Bibop Gresta, Chairman of HyperloopTT. “Now we invite other nations to join these pioneers.”

Bangalore gets India’s First Largest Pet Resort - Petcart Nest at Sarjapur Road


Petcart, a fully integrated pet care solutions company has launched “Petcart Nest”, an exclusive ret resort in Bangalore. India’s first luxury resort that is dedicated for Pets.

Situated in Sarjapur Road Bangalore, PETCART “NEST” is spread across 2 acres of lush green space and a 2000 sqft of reception area. 

Petcart Nest is developed after three years of extensive research amongst the Pet Parents, and studying the matured markets like USA under the guidance and mentorship of the well known veterinary experts.  Pet Cart Nest is an exclusive dedicated resort where pet parents and their furry babies can spend stress free quality time under one roof.  Pet parents can also camp with pets and explore various adventures as well plan for overnight stay in tents.

Commenting on the launch, Shekhar Gaonkar Co-Founder and CEO shared his enthusiasm to bring distinctive “Pet Cart Nest” to Bangalore.  “With the steady increase of pet adoption and limited stress free avenues available for pets in Bangalore, we are optimistic that Petcart Nest will be an ideal luxury destination for pets and pet parents. 

“We are also developing a pet life cycle management tool liked by pet parents and loved by furry friends which will derive a personalized schedule for all pets at every stage of their life. Our aim is to foster healthy and happy pet world”, Gaonkar added.

Commenting on the launch, Nilendu Maiti, Co-founder mentioned, “To address the key challenges of new pet parents, at Petcart Nest we do provide hand-holding and training to first time pet parents on how to handle pets at every stages of their growing up”

At Petcart, we believe that pets make us better humans; thus we want to create a unique fun destination for pets and pet parents.  

Key Features of “Petcart Nest”

·         Spread across two acres of lush green space
·         With 1800 sqft swimming pool, with shower & blower facility
·         2 large size play areas
·         70 eco-friendly huts
·         Well-trained staff
·         In-house veterinary service
·         24/7 Surveillance
·         Pick-up & Drop of pets from the doorstep (Coming soon)
·         Video conferencing chat room facility to stay connected with your furry babies
·         Boarding & Day care facility
·         Night Camp with your pet
·         Flee & tick free resistance environment
·         Ample parking space
·         Eco-friendly waste management system
·         Pet Grooming Station
·         Pet Parent training 

Inaugural experiential Carnival for pets and pet parents is scheduled on 23rd September where pet and pet parents can experience the key features of the facility with Fun, Frolic Food and great Music. The entry for this event will be free for the pet parents.

L&T Infrastructure Finance Revises its Prime Lending Rate; Increases PLR by 25 Bps


L&T Infrastructure Finance Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of L&T Finance Holdings Ltd, has announced a revision in its Prime Lending Rate (PLR). The company has increased the PLR by 25 bps to 16.00% from 15.75% for all eligible loans linked to PLR effective September 14, 2018. 

As on June 30, 2018, the wholesale finance loan book stands at Rs. 45,945 cr. with disbursements amounting to Rs. 8,665 cr. in Q1FY19. L&T Infrastructure Finance is the market leader in its focused areas of Infrastructure Finance - renewables, roads and transmission. The company’s strength lies in its strong underwriting ability, structuring and syndication capabilities and providing all infrastructure finance related services under one roof.

Kalyan Jewellers Invests Rs 125 Cr to Launch Flagship Showroom in South-Extension, New Delhi


A new landmark is set to shine in the tony neighbourhood of South Extension, New Delhi with the opening of Kalyan Jewellers’ flagship showroom on September 28, 2018. With an investment of Rs. 125 cr., the showroom in the capital city promises to be the crown jewel in the Kalyan Jewellers global network of 132 outlets. The flagship showroom of Kalyan Jewellers in South Extension I is spread over 2 dedicated floors with ample parking.  The showroom will offer customers a personalised jewellery shopping experience with a wide variety of contemporary and traditional designs.

Customers will be able to browse through Kalyan Jewellers’ myriad designs and selections for everyday as well as bridal wear and festive occasions.  Collections like Muhurat, the bridal jewellery line curated from across India, Tejasvi – Polki jewellery, Mudhra - handcrafted antique jewellery, Nimah – temple Jewellery, Glo – dancing diamonds, Ziah – Solitaire like diamond jewellery, Anokhi – uncut diamonds, Apoorva – diamonds for special occasions, Antara – wedding diamonds, Hera – daily wear diamonds and Rang – precious stones jewellery will enthral patrons at the flagship showroom. 

T. S. Kalyanaraman, Chairman and Managing Director, Kalyan Jewellers Ltd. said, “In the last four years Kalyan Jewellers has managed to establish itself as one of the most preferred jewellery brands in the NCR region. Our significant presence with 8 showrooms across the region and the large investment in a flagship showroom reiterates our commitment to grow our presence. The exciting part of our flagship showroom is the ability to give our customers a superior value proposition with the best of quality, world class designs, and service standards conceived for a memorable shopping experience.”

The second quarter of the current financial year has seen Kalyan Jewellers opening 10 showrooms across Indore, Kanpur, Ranchi, Raipur, Guwahati, Nagpur and Bengaluru. The launch of the flagship showroom in Delhi marks the second phase of its stated expansion plan of Rs.1000 cr. over 20 showrooms during this fiscal. The present showroom expansion is being met through internal accruals, without any bank borrowings or capital dilution.

Today, Kalyan Jewellers has 132 showrooms in India and Middle East. The brand also has a presence online through candere.com.

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