Toyota Achieves ‘Quality Education for All’ in Government Schools of Ramanagara, Karnataka

Key Highlights

-          Stimulated a steady increase in the overall enrolment of school children amongst various Government schools at Bidadi region at various grades up by 24% in 2018, as compared to 2016-17
-          During FY 2019-20, 24,500 school children from 327 schools in Ramanagara district benefitted
-          Toyota’s Educational Activities outreach expanded to cover 300+ schools until this year [activity started in 2003 with one school].
-          Toyota creates a model school in GLPS Devalinganapalya near Bidadi to upscale the Government school standards in line with the private learning environment

In its relentless commitment towards promoting quality education to school children from the weaker sections of the community since 2003, Toyota Kirloskar Motor today kicked off the distribution of essential school supplies to children covering 327 government schools from the state. This initiative is a part of Toyota’s sustained efforts to develop a positive learning environment in schools. The school supply kit consisting of bags, books, geometry box’s, drawing books and crayons will be distributed to 24,500 students across first to tenth grades in Government schools at Ramanagara district, where the company’s manufacturing plant is located.

The company represented by Mr. K. V. Rajendra Hegde, General Manager, Toyota Kirloskar Motor handed over the books and bags to the local school children in the presence of Mr. Gangemare Gowda, Deputy Director of Public Instruction and Mr. Marilinge Gowda, Block Education Officer, Ramanagara, marking the commencement of the activity.

Toyota’s timely interventions and focused approach has stimulated a steady increase in the overall enrolment of school children amongst various Government schools at Bidadi region at various grades up by 24% in 2018, as compared to 2016-17. Such initiatives have been a significant step in ensuring uninterrupted learning and reducing school dropouts amongst the financially challenged children.

Additionally, for past three years TKM has been working to build capacity of teachers in Government Schools on their English Communication and teaching skills.

Appreciating Toyota’s initiative, Mr. Gangemare Gowda, Deputy Director of Public Instruction, Ramanagara said, “Education plays a pivotal role in the development of the economy of the country.  We are happy with the way Toyota is setting a benchmark in enhancing the quality of education in the local communities through a very holistic approach.  The company has been committed ensuring education of highest quality and encouraging education for all. We encourage more corporates to come forward and help us provide free and quality education among the weaker sections of the community, so that together we can build a better tomorrow. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to Toyota for continuing this wonderful cause year after year.”

Sharing his thoughts on this initiative, Mr. Naveen Soni, Vice President - Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “We have been working closely with local communities to catalyze sustainable impact through system and behavioral change. Children are at the core of these interventions and act as change agents.

We at Toyota recognize education as one of the main pillars to a nation’s development and have always worked towards providing quality education at the grass roots level. TKM believes in providing holistic solution for quality education. Thus, in addition to providing learning aids, sports kits, we have also upgraded the infrastructure of Government Lower Primary Schools in Ramanagara. This has helped in motivating the students, teachers and changing the perception of the parents. Our aim is to significantly contribute towards reducing school dropouts rate in the local communities with such sustained efforts.” he added.

These programs have expanded over a period, enhancing the beneficiary coverage to around 24,500 school children across 327 Government Schools this academic year, as compared to 3000 children in 2007.

Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund Launches Dedicated Partner Priority Desk for Karnataka

 

Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund, the mutual fund arm of Aditya Birla Capital announces the launch of Partner Priority Desk (PPD), a one-of-its kind, dedicated service counter for its distribution partners in Karnataka. Partner Priority Desk is to become a one stop solution for the distribution channels’ servicing needs and ensure accurate resolution of service requests from distribution partners, speedily and with a sense of urgency.

Mutual Funds have become a preferred investment tool for investors. Industry growth fuelled by increased number of investors has led to higher volume of transactions. This in turn has led to greater volume of service requests. Distribution partners who play a key role in growth of the industry, require the support of robust service standards as they manage growing number of investors.

Commenting on the launch of the Partner Priority Desk, Mr. A. Balasubramanian, CEO, Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund said, “Partner Priority Desk Telangana is part of our continued effort to deliver best-in-class service experience to our distribution partners. Given the steady rise in retail interest for Mutual Funds from Karnataka, we see PPD contributing greatly in helping distribution partners in the region and enhancing the overall experience for our stakeholders.”

PPD has implemented dedicated region-specific toll-free numbers to ensure that service requests are resolved in a timely manner. The Desk has also deployed a real-time feedback mechanism to capture distributor feedback after every phone call. This feedback channelled back into the system helps the fund house drive continuous improvement and raise the bar on service delivery to distribution partners.

Partner Priority Desk Karnataka is equipped with trained specialists, dedicated only for distributors. Distribution partners have the comfort of speaking to a service expert from their region, in their regional language, who will take responsibility for the service request and see it through to resolution. All service requests are logged into a dedicated system that enables tracking until satisfactory closure.

Garmin India Launches New ‘Forerunners’, 245 and 245 Music with Ultra Modern Technology

Expanding the choices for running enthusiasts in India, Garmin India- a unit of Garmin Ltd. today launched the all new Forerunner 245 and Forerunner 245 Music. These two are the latest and advanced models under their best-selling Forerunner series. Built on the mantra of “You do the running; FR 245 series will do the thinking”, the lightweight smartwatch is loaded with advanced features such as, incident detection, body battery, race predictor, and are available in new attractive colours.

Specially made for the serious and new-age runners, these GPS-enabled smartwatches enhance the running experience with detailed data, safety and tracking features along with other advanced training options. In addition to these, the Forerunner 245 Music holds up to 500 songs and lets users sync playlists from select preloaded music streaming services like Spotify or transfer music from a computer.

Speaking at the launch of these new models of the Forerunner series, Mr. Ali Rizvi, National Sales Manager - Garmin India said, “The Forerunner series is the flagship series for Garmin, which has been highly appreciated by the running fanatics. Adding more value to the series, Garmin India today launched the Forerunner 245 and Forerunner 245 Music for all those enthusiasts who wish to combine intelligence, style and futuristic features, all in one. With features like body battery, VO2 max, incident detection, race predictor etc., this forerunner series will prove to be the perfect running partner to deliver an enhanced running experience to the users.”

The Forerunner 245 and Forerunner 245 Music are the latest solution from the ever-expanding Garmin fitness segment, which focuses on developing technologies to enhance and promote healthy and active lifestyles. Whether it is running, cycling, swimming or simply looking to stay active throughout the day, Garmin fitness devices can help athletes of all levels reach their health and fitness goals.

Key Features:

Train safer & smarter with Forerunner 245 & Forerunner 245 Music

These watches don’t just serve the purpose of your fitness, but also look after one’s safety & security. With their built-in incident detection feature, one can now easily share their location with their pre- chosen contacts, in case one needs assistance. Location can also be shared if a potential incident, such as a fall is detected.

Another new feature with the Forerunner 245 series is the newly introduced Body Battery which helps optimize body’s energy. The Body Battery energy monitoring uses collected data to gauge one’s energy reserves at any moment, so that the user can plan their day accordingly, optimizing times for activity and rest.

Additionally, the Forerunner 245 Music holds the ability ‘Store up to 500 songs’ on the watch for phone-free listening and even syncs one’s favourite music from select streaming services like Spotify or allows transferring music from a computer to your device.

Advanced Physio Features & Running Dynamics

With the improved race predictor, a runner can now easily predict the race time and plan training sessions accordingly. The Forerunner 245 model is also equipped with advanced features that will help one evaluate the training status and indicate if under training or overdoing is taking place. It also offers additional performance monitoring features like VO2 Max, to analyze the amount of oxygen a person can utilize during intense exercise. It further analyzes the recovery time post intense activity, aerobic and anaerobic training effect, and training status & load.

These watches also come with advanced running dynamics such as ground contact time & balance, stride length, vertical oscillation and vertical ratio, which work on enhancing one’s overall running sessions.

Designed for the running gene

Garmin users can now train with the help of Garmin Coach feature, which offers free training plans that adapt according to a runner’s goals and performances. Whether the user is training for a 5K or a marathon, it creates a personalized workout. The user can also download Garmin Coach adaptive training plans for free! Offering a lot more, the smartwatch also includes multiple sport activity modes like run plus treadmill, indoor track, bike, indoor bike, treadmill, pool swim, row indoor, elliptical, stair stepper and many more.

The Forerunner 245 and Forerunner 245 Music are reliable training companions with outstanding battery life - up to 7 days in smartwatch mode; up to 6 hours in GPS mode with music and 24 hours in GPS mode without music.

Pricing and Availability

The Ultra modern and sport-ready Forerunner 245 & Forerunner 245 Music comes with lightweight, adjustable, quick release bands. The Forerunner 245 is available in Slate and Amp Yellow colours, priced at Rs. 29,990 while the Forerunner 245 Music is available in three quirky colours- Black, Lava Red and Aqua, priced at Rs. 34,990

The ‘Forerunner 245 and Forerunner 245 Music is available online at Amazon.in, Paytmmall and Myntra. For offline purchase the customers can shop at GO Sport Mumbai and Bangalore, Peloton Calicut, PlayWell Calicut and Kochi and Helios Watch Stores Pan India.

Dettol Unveils Dettol Co-Created with Moms with 0% Free from Parabens, Dyes and Talc

Dettol, the leading germ protection brand in the country, today announced the launch of Dettol Co-Created with Moms, a range of bathing soaps and hand washes, designed keeping consumer preferences in mind.  With this announcement, Dettol has developed an entirely new space, with a range of products that have ingredients approved by moms while continuing to deliver Dettol’s trusted protection. This is a unique innovation with products that are free from any parabens, dyes and talc, giving mothers exactly what they want.

Acknowledging a growing need for products that have lesser chemicals & avoidable ingredients, Dettol co-created with Moms has been introduced without paraben and dyes, with fragrances inspired from nature. Dettol directly went to mothers to understand the attributes they want in products and received their approval on the ingredients before launching the range.

With consumer needs at heart, this significant product innovation has been designed to ensure that today’s mother gets the best of both worlds – trusted protection with lesser chemicals. This led to, Dettol Co-Created with moms that has 0% Parabens, 0% dyes and 0% talc, with protection from 100 illness causing germs.

Commenting on the launch, Pankaj Duhan, Chief Marketing Officer, RB South Asia Health said, “Dettol’s rich heritage in India makes it - a trusted partner for mothers and we constantly thrive to innovate our product offering to best suit their needs. We are very excited to launch the Dettol Co-Created with Moms range, a - unique initiative where Dettol has gone ahead of the curve and directly engaged with mothers to understand what they want in products for their family, so that moms never have to compromise. With ingredients approved by Moms, we have added a touch of mom’s love to the trusted protection of Dettol – and this range has been co-created with moms to give them exactly what they want. It is truly a range that has, “Touch of Mom, with a Touch of Dettol”.

Dettol Co-Created with moms soap and handwash - comes in two fragrances infused with natural essences: Tulsi and Jasmine. It is available in the following pack sizes –

125g Multi Packs: Launched with a consumer offer of Buy 4 Get 1 Free, MRP Rs. 260/-
175ml Refill Pouch with a Buy 3 Get Rs. 40 off Promo: MRP Rs. 146/-
200ml Liquid Handwash with a 175ml Pouch Combo: MRP Rs. 125
75g Multi Packs: Launched with a consumer offer of Buy 4 Get 1 Free, MRP Rs. 160/-
75g Single: With an introductory MRP of Rs. 30/-

It will be available across, grocery stores, departmental stores, pharmacists in India and leading e-commerce websites.

ZEE5 Partners with Applicaster for App Development in India

OTT digital platform ZEE5 has entered into a partnership with Applicaster, one of Israel's leading global cloud platforms for media app development and management in the media space. Applicaster will work with ZEE5 to enhance the latter's user interface and experience, leveraging its state-of-the-art tech, industry knowledge on the evolving trends across the globe.

It will also enhance ZEE5's functionality, offering a seamless content viewing experience to the viewers. "India is the world's fourth largest app market and one of the most crowded one for OTT players. ZEE5 has been a frontrunner in bringing the best-in-class experience for subscribers seeking entertainment content in multiple Indian languages.

"And today we have become the first to harness the capabilities of Israeli tech start-ups and their expertise in the mobile entertainment space. With the warming up of relations between the two advanced countries, we are confident of building a winning proposition for all involved," Tarun Katial, CEO, ZEE5 India said in a statement.

He added the journey over the past year has given the company immense insights in terms of the changing behaviour of OTT viewers. "This knowledge complemented by the technological prowess of Applicaster will result in a delightful experience for the ZEE5 viewers the world over," Katial said. Applicaster co-founder and CEO Jonathan Laor said he is thrilled to partner with ZEE5.

"Throughout our discussions, ZEE5's passion for delighting their customers through rich user experiences was clear and matched our beliefs perfectly. We are thrilled to be chosen as ZEE5's partner of choice in realising their desire to minimise development time and integrate the best of breed components necessary to deliver an industry leading user experience to their 61.5 million active users," Laor said. Both the parties signed the MoU in the presence of Pavan Kapoor, Indian ambassador to Israel at the Indian Embassy in Israel.

Kapoor said deals like these will set the tone for more collaborations between the two countries going forward in the field of innovation and technology. "India and Israel share a deep bond of friendship with extensive commercial linkages. Collaborations like this will bring our people closer and enable learning and mutual prosperity," the ambassador added.

Survey Finds Chief Data Officers Are Prioritizing the Right Things, But Higher Strategic Focus Is Required

Chief data officers (CDOs) and their data and analytics (DA) teams are focusing on the right priorities, but they are not yet achieving the best balance of their various responsibilities to deliver superior organizational performance, revealed a recent Gartner, Inc. survey.

“CDOs are generally focused upon the right things, but they do not have the right mix of activities,” said Debra Logan, distinguished research vice president at Gartner. The survey found that while the creation of a data-driven culture was ranked the No.1 critical factor to the DA team, there were conflicting rankings for technical and nontechnical activities (data integration and data skills training), and strategic and tactical activities (enterprise information management [EIM] program and architecting a DA platform).

Gartner’s fourth annual CDO survey was conducted online from September through December 2018, among 257 CDOs, chief analytics officers and other high-level data and analytics leaders from across the world.

While the implementation of a DA strategy was ranked the No. 3 most-critical success factor by 28% of CDOs, another strategic activity – creating a data literacy program – was ranked only 12th. This was despite the fact that, in the same survey, ‘poor data literacy’ was rated the No. 1 roadblock to creating a data-driven culture and realizing its business benefits.

“The low ranking of strategic activities can be explained because the majority of organizations are at maturity level 3 or higher for EIM and business intelligence and analytics,” said Ms. Logan. “While the survey shows that information governance is important, especially master data management (MDM), CDOs should never lose sight of the business outcomes they are trying to achieve. Focusing exclusively on governance, even MDM, is not enough to succeed as a CDO.”

Emerging Technologies Are Important to DA Strategy Success

A majority of CDO respondents rated machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) as critical at 76% and 67%, respectively. Sixty-five percent of respondents were using or piloting ML, while 53% were using or piloting AI. Less than 20% of CDOs surveyed were using or piloting smart contracts (18%) or blockchain (16%).

“CDOs are embracing emerging technologies to enable and drive data program success,” said Ms. Logan. “The survey respondents reporting superior overall organizational performance compared to competitors or peers were more likely to use ML to drive revenue growth, attract and retain top talent and translate customer or business needs into high-value products or services.”

Only 8% of CDOs Are Directly Measuring Financial Value of DA

In terms of measuring the value of their organization’s information and data assets, only 8% of CDOs were measuring the financial value of DA. Forty-five percent of CDOs reported they produce some data quality metrics – such as accuracy, completeness, scale and usage – while 29% said they measure the impact of key information and data assets on business processes, such as KPIs.

“The measurement of information value clearly leans toward data quality. There is room for improvement as nearly a fifth of CDOs surveyed have no objective measurement of information assets,” said Ms. Logan. “Organizations need to realize that those who measure either the financial value of key information and data assets or measure the impact of these on business processes are nearly twice as likely to report superior performance in DA team effectiveness.”

The survey also found that the majority of CDOs generated value from information assets to improve internal processes (60%) and increase the value of products and services (57%), with a focus on efficiency. Fifty percent of CDOs reported a focus on enhancing new offerings by innovating with information. Other means to realize value from information assets also lagged. Nineteen percent of CDO respondents were selling or licensing information via data brokers or online marketplaces and only 17% were selling or licensing to others for cash.

Overall, respondents using information and data assets to generate indirect economic benefits were more likely to report superior organizational performance when engaged in improving or developing new offerings, in increasing the value of their products/services, and in exchanging information with business partners for goods, services or favorable contract terms.

Ms. Logan added that a successful CDO need to emphasize the importance of:

Providing measurable business outcomes – for example, how DA can reduce customer churn as well as deliver specific outcomes such as data quality.
Balancing tactical and strategic initiatives especially when it comes to technology implementation (the emphasis is not on implementation, which CDOs should leave to the CIO).
Experimenting with digital emerging technologies and looking for the best use cases to develop past the pilot stage.

Boeing and Rossell Techsys Celebrate Dual Milestones for V-22 Osprey and AH-64 Apache

Rossell Techsys celebrated dual milestones with Boeing [NYSE: BA] for the V-22 Osprey and AH-64 Apache programs. Rossell Techsys delivered the 2000th harness for the V-22 Osprey and the 1000th electrical panel for the AH-64 Apache to Boeing. 

 “We are proud to partner with Rossell Techsys to deliver high quality components for some of Boeing’s most advanced platforms like the Osprey and Apache,” said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India. “Boeing remains committed to investing in India’s supplier capability and a local work-force across manufacturing engineering services, training and skills-development, to create a world-class aerospace ecosystem in India.”

Rossell Techsys has been a long-standing Boeing supplier in India, since 2013. The contract for AH-64 Apache components was awarded to Rossell Techsys in March 2017, and the V-22 Osprey components in August 2017. In January 2019, Rossell delivered the 15,000th wire harness to Boeing for the AH-64 Apache.

“Rossell Techsys is committed to strengthening aerospace manufacturing in India. Partnering with Boeing has enabled us to further develop and position ourselves as a globally competitive aerospace supplier,” said Prabhat Kumar Bhagvandas, chief executive officer, Rossell Techsys.

Boeing has invested significantly in the development of a robust aerospace ecosystem in India, with over 160 existing industrial partners including Rossell Techsys, who are raising the bar to deliver world-class quality, cost-efficiency and productivity as they become an important part of the company’s worldwide supply chain for some of the most innovative products in the world. Boeing provides technical knowledge and support to suppliers, helping them deliver components of the highest quality standards for the global aerospace industry. Boeing sourcing from India has quadrupled over the years and now stands at $1 billion.

Boeing also partners with Rossell Techsys on skilling initiatives to prepare a future ready aerospace workforce. These curriculums and initiatives are training workers on aerospace-relevant skills to support India’s growing aerospace ecosystem.