Dakota DC3 – VP905 - Parashurama - Star of Indian Air Force Day Celebration 2018

The Indian Air Force today celebrated its 86th anniversary. A scintillating air display by various aircraft was the hallmark of the Air Force Day Parade at the Air Force Station Hindan in Ghaziabad. However, the star of this year’s celebrations was the Dakota  DC3 aircraft that made it’s maiden appearance in the Fly Past.

The Indian military aircraft, which played a vital role in the 1947-48 India-Pakistan war and other wars, was restored to its original glory, made in flying condition by Rajeev Chandrasekhar and was inducted in to the Vintage Aircraft Flight of the Indian Air Force in May this year.

This aircraft was gifted to nation by Rajeev Chandrasekhar and was named Parashurama by him.

MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar is an aviation enthusiast and is the son of an Air Force Officer Air Commodore M.K.Chandrasekhar who served as Trainer of Fighter Aircraft who flew Dakota and was part of several sorties of Dakota as well.

Speaking on IAF Day 2018, Chandrasekhar said “I am delighted see the Dakota participating in it’s maiden fly past. The Dakota is an important part of Air Force’s history - and J&K history. If it was not for the Dakotas and the troops it airlifted in 1947 - Srinagar would not be with India today. The restoration took over 6 years and cost me a lot of money. But I was motivated mainly for my father and many others who served and the need to remind country of the bravery of IAF and Army in 1947 which kept young independent India together with J&K.

Journey of Dakota to India

On 13 February 2018, Rajya Sabha MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar gifted the Dakota bearing the Tail Number VP 905 and called “Parashurama” in a signing ceremony to The Indian Air Force to be added to its Vintage Fleet.

The Gift Deed was signed between Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa , PVSM, AVSM, YSM, VM, ADC , Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force and Air Commodore M K Chandrasekhar, VM, VSM (Retd)- Rajeev Chandrasekhar’s father who an Dakota Pilot himself.

The aircraft commenced its journey from the UK on April 17 to India with and flew a total of 9,750 km during its ferry en-route halts in France, Italy, Greece, Jordan, Bahrain and Oman and landed on Indian soil on 25 Apr 18.

Dakota DC3 VP 905 Parashurama was formally inducted into the IAF Vintage Flight on 4 May 2018 in a grand ceremony at Air Force Station Hindan where Air Cmde M K Chandrasekhar (Father of MP Rajeev Chandrasekhar), a veteran Dakota pilot himself, handed over a symbolic key to the Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal B S Dhanoa.

Legacy of Dakota D3

The Dakota D3 was at the forefront of operations from 1947 to 1971 and played an indispensable role in logistics and transportation during its flying years in the IAF.

The Dakota was deployed by to fight Pakistan army aided by an irregular militia consisting of tribesmen from the frontier invaded Kashmir in 1947.

The Dakota was put to good use during the Indo China war of 1962 and also during the India Pakistan war in 1971.

The crucial para-drop operations in Tangail, 60 miles from Dhaka, on 11 December 1971, four days ahead of Pakistan military’s historic surrender to the India-Bangladesh Joint Command on December 16 were done from a Dakota.

NetRack participated in BISCI-Bangalore; Showcased its revolutionary product: iRack

NetRack, a leading solution provider for data centers and end-to-end IT server racks, exhibited its significant product, iRack, with its self-cooled, self-powered features and self-contained design has gained maximum attention in BISCI gathering. iRack is equipped with air-seal kit, blanking panels, brush models and panels for efficient Airflow management. The features like precision cooling unit (3.5KW cooling capacity), with & without redundancy, intelligent PDU, UPS, environmental sensors   etc., has mesmerized the crowd.
  
Addressing the gathering, Ravi Raj, Brand Head, Director, Sales & Support at NetRack said, "BISCI has always been a remarkable event for us as well as other vendors assisting IT industry. It provides great platform to exhibit our products and acts as a medium to connect with industry leaders and IT professionals."

"We at NetRack are delighted to showcase iRack, a high quality and superior cooling rack cabinet for SME server Rooms and Hub Rooms application, Remote AV application, ware house / Industry application. This is an innovative product which requires less area and provides maximum server space for small setups. Considering the demand of intelligent infra capsules and utilizing advanced technology, we have manufactured iRack and meet the next level Application NetRack has iRack Blocks to ease the installation, Faster Deployment and increase cooling efficiency."

NetRack manufactures its racks under stringent ISO 9001 - 2008 Manufacturing & Quality standards to ensure highest quality product. iRack comes with rack load capacity of 1000kgs and carefully configured to prevent thermal short circuits. iRack series are highly efficient and eco-friendly in nature. Thus, ensures energy - saving, promoting overall reduction in energy costs.

Array AVX Network Functions Platforms Earn ICSA Labs Security Certification

Array Networks,Inc., the network functions platform company, today announced that its AVX Series Network Functions Platforms (AVX Series) family has earned ICSA Labs SSL-TLS VPN security certification, becoming one of only three solutions worldwide to hold the distinction. The AVX Series are hyperconverged platforms designed specifically to host networking and security workloads. The platforms deliver the performance of physical appliances coupled with the agility of virtual appliances while providing dedicated resources per instance.

ICSA Labs, an independent division of Verizon, develops and performs comprehensive, unbiased, third-party security certification testing. The ICSA Labs SSL-TLS VPN certification standard includes data confidentiality, authentication and integrity assurance for inter-network transactions. ICSA Labs certification helps enterprises, service providers and government agencies identify and evaluate security solutions with confidence. The AVX Series is an open platform that supports both Array and third-party virtual appliances; the testing was performed on AVX platforms running instances of Array's vxAG virtual SSL VPNs and MotionPro Layer 3 VPN client.

"ICSA Labs recognizes Array Networks' dedication to delivering high quality and secure platforms for networking and security applications," said Sebastien Mazas, Director of ICSA Labs. "Following testing, ICSA Labs found that the network functions platforms are thoughtfully designed and properly execute SSL and TLS, confirming that the AVX Series securely processes SSL-TLS encrypted traffic."

SSL-TLS has become the 'gold standard' for web sites as well as for transmission of corporate information via virtual private networks. Corresponding with the growth of public, private and hybrid clouds, nearly 80 percent of internet traffic is encrypted. The ability of networking and security solutions to efficiently and securely process SSL-encrypted traffic has become essential.

Array's Network Functions Platforms include high-performance SSL hardware to process SSL traffic with performance equal to that of dedicated, single-function appliances. The AVX Series features a security-hardened operating system that protects against a wide range of network attacks. Both the AVX Series and the vxAG virtual SSL VPN utilize Array's robust SSL stack, which is tuned for both security and performance, and has proved immune to attacks such as Heartbleed, GHOST, DROWN and others.

The combination of SSL hardware, security hardening and Array's proprietary SSL stack - and the ability to host multiple security functions and service-chain them within a single consolidated appliance - make the AVX Series particularly well suited for use in data centers.

"ICSA Labs is one of the most respected security technology testing organizations, and offers independent validation of SSL-TLS conformance and efficacy to help enterprises, service providers and others protect critical network traffic," said Milind Kulkarni, Senior Director of  Product Management for Array Networks. "Many CIOs, CISOs, IT managers and others are seeking the agility of virtualization with the performance of dedicated appliances, to consolidate data center networking and security, or to develop innovative solutions for security and networking. They can now rely upon this testing in evaluating their options."

Tata Motors Launches Hexa XM+, the Latest Variant of the Company’s Lifestyle SUV

Bringing in the festive season celebrations, Tata Motors today announced the launch of Hexa XM+, a new variant of its lifestyle SUV. Launched at a price of INR. 15.27 Lakhs, ex- showroom New Delhi, this additional trim will be offered with a host of luxurious features which will lure all car enthusiasts this festive season. With a mixture of plush features like the all- new Charcoal grey alloys among others, the Hexa XM+ will blend in with the needs of an active and dynamic urban lifestyle customer. 

According to S. N. Barman - Vice President, Sales, Marketing & Customer Support, Passenger Vehicles Business Unit, Tata Motors, “With Turnaround 2.0 in play, we have continued to deepen our focus towards catering to the evolving customer demands by introducing new products and variants at regular intervals. The Hexa has successfully established itself as a great lifestyle SUV and with the launch of the Hexa XM+, we are further strengthening this product range by offering more to our customers. We are confident that the XM+ will take brand Hexa a step ahead towards delighting our customers”.

The Hexa XM+ comes with 16 new exciting features. Few key features highlighted below:

1 Striking Exteriors

All new R16 Charcoal Grey Alloys

2 Luxurious Interiors

Soft-Touch Dashboard with Hexa Branding

3 Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel

4 Fully Automatic Temperature Control (FATC) with Dual AC

5 Superior Convenience and additional safety features

Front Fog Lamps

6 Reverse Parking Sensor with Camera

7 Cruise Control

8 Automatic Headlamps (Light sensing)

9 Rain Sensing Wipers

10 Electrically adjustable & foldable outside mirrors

The Hexa XM+ will retain Hexa’s premium all-black sporty interiors, sculpted indulgent seats as well as the 8-colour, ambient mood lighting. Tata Motors also offers customers the option to customize their Hexa with an electric sunroof to enhance the style quotient. The sunroof is available with a 2 years warranty through Tata Motors Genuine Accessories along wth a host of other interesting options to choose from. 

Flipkart Adds 30,000 Direct and an Estimated 500,000 Plus Indirect Jobs for the Big Billion Days

In preparation for the fifth edition of The Big Billion Days, Flipkart, India’s largest e-commerce marketplace, has added 30,000 direct jobs in its supply chain and logistics arm, and is expecting its seller partners to have added an estimated 5 lakh plus indirect jobs at their locations. The annual Big Billion Days event is scheduled from Oct 10th to Oct 14th this year.

The directly employed workforce is spread across the entire supply chain, from Flipkart Wishmasters to  personnel in warehouses, mother hubs, and delivery hubs. This is exclusive from the jobs generated by Flipkart’s vast network of sellers, which is estimated to be 500,000 plus, as they also prepare for the festive season demand. The additional indirect jobs created at the seller location are in packaging and warehouse management where Flipkart also partners these sellers for providing the right training to the hired talent.

The company will also leverage a network of flexible infrastructure built specifically to cater to, what is expected to be, record demand from customers. A total of 16 flex fulfillment centres and 15 mother hubs have been added to Flipkart’s supply chain infrastructure, and capacity at existing facilities has been expanded.

The hiring and upskilling of the newly-recruited staff is in line with the government’s National Skill Development Mission, and will provide a major boost to to the local employment and the economy. All hired personnel undergo training in supply chain process for their respective function, and are trained to handle Hand-Held Devices, PoS Machines, scanners, various mobile applications and ERPs. As a result, these employees become future ready to work in tech-driven supply chains, food-tech and other allied industries.

“The Big Billion Days is India’s own shopping festival and as a homegrown company, we want it to have a positive impact on the entire ecosystem. Along with ensuring that our customers have a seamless shopping experience, we want the economy too to benefit from the increased activity. By generating employment and enabling our sellers to scale their businesses during this time, we’re playing an important role in driving the industry and subsequently the economy,” said Kalyan Krishnamurthy, CEO at Flipkart.

Besides there are many of the indirect jobs created are at the third-party vendors, such as housekeeping, security, transport etc, as they scale their own operations to cater to Flipkart during this time.

Tata Harrier to be Powered by All-New 2.0L KRYOTEC Diesel Engine

The best in Diesel Engine technology is here. Tata Motors has introduced the all-new 2.0L KRYOTEC Diesel engine for its much awaited SUV – the Tata Harrier. KRYOTEC is inspired from Cryogenic rocket engine for its power and reliability. It has been benchmarked against global standards of performance and refinement.

Engineered to deliver exceptionally refined drivability and performance on every drive, this powerful 4- cylinder, next generation diesel engine is equipped with state of the art engine management system. The exhaust after treatment systems are tuned to deliver extremely low carbon footprint.

Multi Drive Modes are a part of Tata Motors product DNA and the KRYOTEC engine takes it to the next level by marrying the Multi Drive Modes to the Terrain Response Modes of the ESP. The Advanced Electronically Controlled Variable Geometry Turbocharger (eVGT) will ensure excellent power & pickup to take on any terrain. The KRYOTEC comes with Low Friction Valve Train Architecture and an Advanced EGR to deliver exceptional fuel economy and to meet stringent emission requirements

This engine has been tested extensively on Tata Harrier for endurance under harsh conditions and optimized for performance by pushing it to its extremes.

Sporting an intriguing amalgamation of power-packed performance of KRYOTEC, futuristic IMPACT 2.0 design language and cid:image003.png@01D45D97.3277E4B0 architecture, the Tata Harrier, #BornofPedigree, will set new benchmarks for SUVs in India in early 2019.

1,500 Visitors and 50 Exhibitors Participate in SMART ASIA India 2018

SMART ASIA India Expo and Summit 2018, the second edition and the largest smart cities event in Southern India came to a close on 6th October 2018. The summit just in its second edition received not just active participation from Indian companies and government bodies but also overwhelming response from various cities in Taiwan. The sheer number of visitors stood testament to the success of the summit. The expo had over 1,500 visitors and 50 exhibitors and delegates from Taiwan and India to discuss various topics like smart technological innovations, smart energy management, and green mobility among others, for a better tomorrow.  This knowledge partnership between India and Taiwan resulted in successful creation of trade opportunities and industry collaboration.

SMART ASIA India Expo and Summit 2018 reflected the rising need to create an integrated approach for constructing smart cities. Honorable Chief Minister of Karnataka H. D. Kumaraswamy who inaugurated the exhibition resounded the sentiment of building sustainable cities. This message was reiterated by Union Minister, Mr. Giriraj Singh who visited the expo on its second day where he mentioned that innovations in the smart technology sector can give our country a boost in becoming sustainable.

The expo also saw India-Taiwan EV Business Opportunities Forum where Adaptive Energy Systems and J.S. Power signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the growth of electric vehicles in India. On this occasion Ms. Sahana Ramesh, MD, Adaptive Energy Systems said, “Adaptive Energy Systems Pvt Ltd, one of the major stand out companies at the recent Smart Asia 2018 conference in Bangalore, appears to be set to impact India in a big way.  Recently entering the market for Lithium-Ion re-chargeable batteries, it has big investment plans in India that will boost the local economy, support high-tech jobs growth and aligns to the Karnataka State Electric Vehicle & Energy Storage policy with Made In India solutions.  With its strategic partnerships with Taiwan Lithium-Ion manufacturers and its entrepreneurial executives, Adaptive Energy Systems has swiftly moved to supply quality and customer-centric solutions for aerospace, military, electric vehicle, energy storage and other needs in India.  Expect to hear more positive news on Adaptive Energy Systems in the near future.”

Another exhibitor at the show Kevin Cheng, Vice President, H.P.B. Co., Ltd., indicated how Smart Asia Expo helped them initiate talks with at least 10 system integrators in India who are interested in their healthcare and monitoring solutions. This shows how Smart Asia Expo is becoming a platform, where Indian and Taiwanese companies can produce business opportunities and work towards creating a better tomorrow. Ms Padma Priya J, Director Smart Cities, Grant Thornton India LLP and advisory to digital India Program is also expressed her interest in Avision’s , Taiwan based company’s, E-Government Solutions.

James C.F. Huang, Chairman of the Taipei World Trade Center said, “SMART ASIA India Expo and Summit continues to develop a platform for business opportunities in order to create a smarter tomorrow. We are committed to sharing expertise in the Smart City domain and enhancing the Smart City business solutions for Indian and Taiwanese companies. If the summit is any indication of the business opportunities to come then I am confident that we have a brighter future ahead. “

Some of the key exhibitors at the event were D-Link, Taiwan Tourism Bureau, YPCloud, Good Will, Technogreen amongst many others. The expo also saw various sessions and panels like Effective Bilateral Market Collaborations for India’s 100 Smart cities mission, opportunities, developments, future trends in Indian Smart Cities, Smart Cities and technologies, Smart Water management among others. Various industry stalwarts participated in these panels and spoke about the application of cutting edge technologies and solutions to effectively tackle the various challenges that cities face as a result of rapid urbanization and increasing population. SMART ASIA India Expo and Summit has received a big boost taking cues from Honorable PM Narendra Modi’s initiative of “Make In India” and “Digital India”. SMART ASIA has developed into a perfect platform for generating trade synergies between the two countries.