Stop Child Marriages: CRY Organizes a Wedding Ceremony in B'lore

Child Rights and You (CRY) a leading ‘rights’ based organization working in the domain of child rights for the last 40 years organized a unique campaign to sensitize the netizens of Bangalore on the prevalence of child marriage. The event called ‘Not Yet’ saw a ceremonial wedding procession where people were asked to attend the marriage of a young girl representing the truth of 653131 married girl child in the state of Karnataka.

The latest Census figure shows the percentage of married children increase steeply with increasing age, and the increase is much more for girls than boys. At the age of 15 only 2.2% of the married population are boys while 8.6% are girls; this for the boys in the age of 18 becomes 3.6% and for girls is 27.45 % indicating the steep rise. Today’s girls are tomorrow’s women. Young girls who get married at an early age face several health related problems and lie at a greater risk of infant and maternal mortality.

The event marked by the presence of around 20 CRY volunteers and staff dressed up as attendees of a wedding procession escorted a Palki signifying a bride sitting in it. Mock invitations were given out asking people to join the ceremony. The invitation contained information on child marriage sensitizing people on the ground reality and also provided information on how common people can support the cause.

“The surprise factor was very impactful. It reminds us of the sad truth about the society that we don’t give importance to. The manner in which the complexity of the issue was sensitized to us motivated us to be part of CRY’s effort in its work towards to bring a sustained change in the lives of children,” said one of the onlookers, Arkadeb Ghosh, working in an analytical firm.

“Through this event we wanted to inform the general public and draw their attention to some of the serious threats the girls of our country are facing. The importance of school for a girl child is much more than education as being there for the prescribed period also and averts them from instances of child marriage and child labor,” said Karthik Narayanan, Regional Director CRY (South).

CRY:
Child Rights and You is an Indian NGO that believes in every child’s right to a childhood - to live, learn, grow and play. For 4 decades, CRY and its 850 initiatives have worked with parents and communities to ensure Lasting Change in the lives of more than 2,000,000 underprivileged children, across 23 states in India. 

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Employees Come Together to Create a Better Tomorrow for the Differently Abled

Highlights

* Marking Toyota’s 12th ICARE initiative, TKM collaborates with NGO – ‘Sandesh’ to spread the message of love and equality for all human beings
* As part of the ICARE initiative, over 100 TKM employees (ICARE Champions) volunteer to create products for differently abled children from Sandesh
* Toyota’s ICARE intervention engages its employees to contribute to a bigger social cause in the fields of Health, Road safety, Education and Environment

Continuing its relentless efforts to motivate and encourage employees to partake in social causes, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, today, conducted its 12th ICARE activity in Bangalore, spreading the message of love and equality for all human beings. This time around, TKM associated with NGO – ‘Sandesh’ that works for the differently abled. More than 100 ICARE Champions (TKM employees) came together to build an inventory of products to raise funds for the NGO, benefitting the differently abled children associated with Sandesh.

As part of this activity, TKM volunteers participated in a workshop making products including: lampshades, books, photo frames, paper Mache bowls, clay pots, paper bags and many more under the guidance of the differently abled children from the NGO. It acted as a platform for the volunteers to engage with the children from Sandesh, bringing a smile to their faces and uplifting their spirits. This activity also helped TKM volunteers to empower the differently abled children, and celebrate the essential togetherness of humanity. Additionally, employees were also sensitized in dealing with differently abled children.

‘ICARE’– an employee voluntary initiative, is an effort aligned with the company’s commitment to sustained community development. This drive actively involves the employees and strives to enhance their understanding on various societal issues, contributing to address vital needs within TKM’s CSR framework. Since its launch in 2017, ICARE has grown manifold and managed to create a large impact in the society. The volunteers have addressed various societal issues under thematic areas like Education, Environment, Road Safety, and Health thereby impacting lives. Currently, around 700 employees have been registered under TKM’s ICARE initiative.

A Prasad Kumar, ICARE Champion, participating in the cause said, “I am very happy to participate in this activity as it gives me an opportunity for driving the message of equality for all and spreading love and joy in the lives of the differently abled children from Sandesh. I am thankful to TKM for creating a platform for its employees to come together and make a difference in the community. Being a part of the ICARE initiatives has always motivated us to serve the community and work towards the betterment of the society. Such activities not only benefit the society but also help us become better human beings. I am delighted to spend my time to make such wonderful impact in the lives of the needy people.”

Sharing his thoughts on the activity, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head & Senior Vice President, External Affairs, Public Relations, Corporate Social Responsibility & Corporate Governance, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota, we have always believed in putting our collaborative efforts to bring about a positive change in the society and achieve long-term sustainability. Through ICARE, we inspire our employees to get actively involved in noble causes and empower them to be the change creators in the society, helping them grow as a responsible citizen. For this activity, we have collaborated with NGO – Sandesh, to engage with the differently abled children, create a wholesome environment for them, and leave a positive impact on their overall growth.”

“We are happy to see the active participation of our employees as ‘ICARE Champions’ in each of the ICARE activity. This platform helps the bonding amongst the Toyota family and also enables employees to understand the company’s commitment towards enriching lives of communities. We will continue to focus our efforts on issues that need our intervention and strive to make a key contribution to the society”, he added.

Established in 2008, Sandesh has been working with differently abled children, providing daycare centers, vocational training and skill development training for them. Since its inception, Sandesh has reached out to more than 200 families. Each of them has received hope and courage to face the life with dignity and smile.

Under ICARE, Toyota employees have earlier restored a Government School, facilitated specialized health camps, conducted recreational day with orphan children, initiated eco-campaign amongst school children through eco-painting of school premises, built playground with recycled material, installed road safety structures for smooth traffic flow, took part in the restoration and maintenance of Bannerghatta National Park and extended support to families affected by cyclone in Odisha.

Toyota will further continue its various CSR interventions from a long term development perspective of socio-economic stature of the society, touching many more people’s lives to make a difference in each one’s well-being.

Women's Day Remarks from Popular Brands Across the Tech, Market Research and Hospitality Sectors

1) Aditya Agarwal, Co-Founder, Wealthy 
"The theme for International Women's Day 2020 -- #EachforEqual -- draws attention to the fact that gender inequality poses not just societal issues but also economic ones. In our culture, women are still breaking the mould and realizing that financial independence is a key element for gender equality.
According to the Women in Financial Services 2020 report, the financial services industry is missing out on $700 Billion a year by not meeting the financial needs and expectations of women. This is a huge gap and there is a vast scope to meet the growing financial needs of women in our economy. Our experience with the female wealth managers at Wealthy validates this as they perform better than their male counterparts. Therefore, it also makes business sense for us to support and encourage women to earn on their own terms. Our platform is dedicated to providing an inclusive approach and our Wealth Managers are playing a vital role in providing sound financial counsel for clients' financial growth and well-being."

2) Neha Sanjay, Head of Marketing, Esper
"Around the world and through the decades, we have all shared the struggles of Gender Equality. Gender Equality is an apt theme for IWD 2020 and is particularly relevant for a country like India. Gender inequality is not a woman's issue, but an economic one. It is crucial in ensuring the smooth progress of every industry and sector.
According to the Zinnov-Intel India Gender Diversity Benchmark report released last year, India has merely 26% female representation in technical roles at corporates across the country. This statistic may be a reminder of the gender disparity in the industry, however, it is also indicative of the scope of opportunities for women disruptors in this space. Brands and workplaces need to focus on taking on the role of an enabler in this regard.
At Esper, we believe that Gender Equality has to be designed deliberately at the workplace. Keeping this in mind, we are making efforts to ensure gender diversity through initiatives like hiring more women at all levels, and offering them upskilling and leadership programmes as well as flexibility at work."

3) Sahiba Singh, Chief People Officer, Acuver Consulting Private Limited.
"The technological era is ultimately about maximizing human potential. In these ultra- competitive times, a culture of bias repels true talent and compromises all scope of organizational growth. At Acuver, we truly believe that we stand invincible on the foundation of equality. Here true equality is not just an idea but everyday actions of providing for everyone’s unique needs and trusting everyone with the freedom to design their own success roadmap. In serving as a springboard for every employee’s professional development, whether men or women, we ensure a win-win for our people as well as the organization." 

4) Rachan K, Associate Director – HR, Markelytics Solutions
“Balancing work and personal life can have its hardships, mistakes can be inevitable but there is always a success and we also need to understand that failure is a part of your success. Although we relatively lead a steady life, work or life can become overbearing and when a feeling of being overwhelmed hits us, we may not make the right decision. Having a form of guide or a mentor in life skills helps you to understand your inner morals and allows you to think and compete in a rapidly challenging world.

We, at Markelytics, have always realized the importance of work-life balance for all our employees and have regularly conducted sessions for the same. Work-life balance becomes more challenging for women given the society that we live in, where more impetus is on women to ensure proper functioning both at home and at work. There is no dedicated day, but the realization is more now since women’s day is around and we’ve invited a renowned life skills coach to give a talk on this subject to all our women employees sometime next week. She will be joined by a few senior female employees as well, who will share their inputs to inspire and engage with our people.”

5) Sunaina Sharma Menerkar, General Manager, Grand Mercure Mysore -

'Having come a long way within the Hospitality industry, I have seen the glass ceiling break that existed where the women had to work harder or give up working due to their family commitments. For me this has been a long and fulfilling journey.  We are living in a changing world where more women are following their dreams with passion, desire, and spirit to lead. The Hospitality industry has started to acknowledge and appreciate the commitment shown by women to create a safe culture and opening up numerous opportunities for them'. 

Tata Nexon EV Stages ‘The Grand Electric Tour’ for Customers and Enthusiasts in Bengaluru

To accelerate mainstream adoption of EVs in India, Tata Motors today announced an exciting new initiative called ‘The Grand Electric Tour’ - an immersive drive experience of India’s own Electric SUV – the Tata Nexon EV. The premium set-up is designed for customers to get a first-hand experience of the Nexon EV’s capabilities. Customers will get an opportunity to test the limits of the Nexon EV by driving it on various courses comprising - Acceleration, Slalom, Autocross, and Lane Change. Each of these activities are planned to test the power, stability and the driving experience of the Nexon EV. Adding further excitement, visitors can also experience the Nexon EV, at the hands of a professional race driver.

With the first Grand Electric Tour kicking off in Bengaluru, the two-day fun filled event will reach out to customers, inviting them to experience and indulge in a host of electrifying experiences. Customers will also get a chance to experience advanced connected car features offered by Tata Motors’ ZConnect App, such as remote commands, remote diagnostics, location-based services and safety & security alerts. Customers also have the opportunity to book the vehicle at the venue. Similar set-up are being planned in other metros and towns like Hyderabad, New Delhi/NCR, Mumbai and Pune, serving as an exclusive platform for visitors and enthusiasts.

Slots for experiencing the Grand Electric Tour can be booked by logging in to https://nexonev.tatamotors.com/

Commenting on the occasion Mr. Ashesh Dhar, Head – Sales, Marketing and Customer Care, Electric Mobility Business Unit (EVBU), Tata Motors Ltd. said, “Ever since its launch the Tata Nexon EV has generated a great amount of interest and excitement, resulting in an encouraging response for bookings across our dealerships. To accelerate mainstream adoption of EVs in India, we are building on our customer engagement initiatives by augmenting the ultimate electric experience of Nexon EV through ‘The Grand Electric Tour’. One of the first cities to have dedicated policy for electric vehicles, Bangalore sets the perfect platform to kick start our experiential drive tour, enabling our potential customers and enthusiasts to get up, close and personal with the feature loaded Nexon EV.  We are eager for our guests to experience the various elements of driving Nexon EV and behold the amazing.”

The Tata Nexon EV is an aspirational SUV for personal car buyers looking for a thrilling, connected drive experience with zero emissions. Powered by the cutting-edge Ziptron technology, this vehicle promises zippy performance, an ARAI certified anxiety-free range of 312 km on a single charge, an efficient high voltage system, fast charging capability, extended battery life and class leading safety features. The Nexon EV will be available in three trim levels across 60 plus authorized dealerships in over 22 cities. It will be available in three exciting colour options – Signature Teal Blue colour, Moonlit Silver and Glacier White.

In order to accelerate the adoption of EVs in India, Tata Motors is closely working with other Tata Group companies including Tata Power, Tata Chemicals, Tata Autocomp, Tata Motors Finance and Croma, to create an e-mobility ecosystem, Tata uniEVerse. Powered by Tata uniEVerse, consumers will have access to a suite of e-mobility offerings including charging solutions, innovative retail experiences and easy financing options.

Expert View: Step by Step Guide to Clear Competitive Exams

By Akhand Swaroop Pandit, Educationist, CEO & Founder, Catalyst Group, Online Learning Platform

The initial move towards your groundwork for any competitive exam is to comprehend the pre-requirements of the exam. You should also well-rehearsed with the syllabus (you get that easily on the Internet). Other than the syllabus, you should make a note of the weightage of various subjects so that you can plan your preparations like wise. Looking over previous years' question papers assists in getting well acquainted with the exam pattern.

Here are six steps that you can follow to prepare for any competitive exam:

1) Understanding the syllabus: First thing first, you should always put all your mind and heart in understanding the syllabus of the exam and the level of questions asked. It is very important for you to understand “what to prepare”.

2) Preparing a time table: After you have decided on “what to prepare” it is your turn to plan “how to prepare”. Prepare a time table including your short term and long term goals; this in turn will help you in timely preparation for the exam. A good time table is most likely to help you in better preparation and avoids haphazardness.

3) Study Smartly: Working hard is always important but smart study never goes out of fashion. Going through previous years question papers gives you an edge and also you can analyze the kind of questions being asked, including heavy weightage topic. Your major focus should be on qualitative studying rather than quantitative studying.

4) Revise regularly: Every candidate should have a regular revision strategy in handy. It takes at least four times of regular revision to actually remember something for long term. Whatever you study should be revised on the third day then on the sixth day then on twelfth day and after than on twenty first day. A good revision cycle is definitely going to help you ace the exam.

5) Take Breaks: “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”, as rightly emphasized by the proverb, it is equally important to take breaks. Rather than studying for long durations divided your slots and take a break in between, go out for a walk, take a nap or just listen you’re your favorite track.

6) Keep yourself motivated:  The last and the most important thing is to keep yourself motivated. Motivation to achieve your goal is the key to success. If you are preparing for any exam and if you lack motivation then even a single failure is going to affect you badly. To qualify any exam we should have a strong desire to clear it and it should be maintained on a regular basis.
Belief' is a very powerful tool. You must believe in yourself and your preparation. Ensure that you study the same way throughout the year, to avoid last minute rush and stress. Spend 10-15 minutes before going off to sleep to quickly recap all that you learnt throughout the day.

Also,a bit of physical activity and meditation helps to improve concentration. Do not take stress throughout the entire preparation time and stay away from stressful people. Each and every moment you must tell yourself “I Can, I Will" and trust me you will do it!

PVR Expands its Presence in Karnataka; Opens 12th Property in Bengaluru

PVR Cinemas, the largest and the most premium film exhibition company in India, announced the launch of its 5-screen multiplex in OMR Bangalore at Orion Uptown Mall, today. The property boosts the concept of neighborhood movie viewing in an endeavor to take world class cinema to the doorstep of the patrons. The BARCORGB+ Laser projectorsmake a debutin the state of Karnataka with this opening. Equipped with technological excellence andcoupled with best-in-segment F&B offerings and hospitality services the new multiplexmakes enhanced movie-viewing experienceeasily accessible to the audiences located in the periphery of Bengaluru. With this launch, PVR augments its presence in the state of Karnatakaacross 15properties to 103 screens and to46 properties and 286 screens in Southern India.

With this opening, PVR consolidates its growth momentum in FY 2019-20, so far opening 83 screens in the year, bringing its portfolio to 841 screens at 176 properties in 71 cities.

Located in the popular and fast developing residential suburb ofOld Madras Road, the property is well-connected to the city and the neighboringstate of Tamil Nadu. The new cinema spreads across an area of 22,906 sq. ft.with a seating capacity of 876 audiences. Integrated with advanced technological features like BARCO RGB+ Laser projectors, QSC 7.1 surround sound system, UHB 3D system and Harkness Silver &Perlux White screens, the new cinema ensuresunparalleled cinematic experience at the theatres.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Joint Managing Director, PVR Ltd. said,“We feel proud to cross the 100 screens milestone in the state of Karnataka at the verybeginning of the year. Southern India has a strong market with significant growth potential. In Bengaluru, we have introduced some of our best formats and offerings owing to the nature of preferences by our customers. This property is integrated with differentiated features making cinema viewing accessible, engaging and convenient. We are sure this new multiplex will be well received by our patrons and we look forward to witnessing their excitement for the new RGB+ Laser equipped theaters.”

“We are happy to introduce the new property which is integrated with the best-in-segment in-theatrical solutions to the patrons in Bangalore. The endeavor was to take the modern cinema viewing experience to more people and the property stands true to the commitment owing to its convenient location. We will continue to enhance the consumer experience through innovation and set new benchmarks in the Indian multiplex industry.”said Mr. Pramod Arora, Chief Growth and Strategy Officer, PVR Ltd.

Designed around the concept of modernity, the new cinema enhances customer experience through Quick tix facility, delectable Gourmet menu and recliner seats. Customers can further redeem PVR gift cards and check for privilege membership at the cinema.

Tinder Pledges Upto $1 Million in Free In-App Ads to Women Entrepreneurs in India

Tinder, the world’s most popular app for meeting new people, is pledging up to $1 Million in in-app advertising to support women/anyone who identifies as women entrepreneurs in India.

Tinder is inviting applications from companies where at least 50 percent of the founding team are women or identify as women. To qualify, companies should be under 3 years old, have cumulatively raised less than INR 35 crores in equity financing, and actively target Gen-Z and millennial audiences in India. Both for-profit and not-for-profit entities may apply. Entries will be accepted on a first come first serve basis for up to 25 startups, subject to meeting all eligibility criteria, and applications will close on the 31st of March 2020. Only the first 500 applications will be considered.

Over 90% of Tinder’s community is between the ages of 18-30, and for any women-owned business aimed at that cohort, the ads are intended to support their business, grow their network and help them speak directly to potential consumers. All applicants will be screened by an all-woman panel of Tinder execs in their sole discretion, and all decisions are final.

At Tinder, equal opportunity and inclusivity are core values and we recognize its impact on communities and businesses. Tinder believes in amplifying women’s voices, and the initiative is designed to empower women entrepreneurs, giving them a platform to reach their audiences, raise awareness and generate relevant leads.

Tinder believes change is necessary and knows that real change—the kind that endures—must come from within. In 2018 Tinder partnered with an outside firm to do a comprehensive pay equity audit to make sure that there weren’t disparities at Tinder. All statistical evidence indicates that Tinder has achieved pay equity, and they remain committed to maintaining leadership in this space.

“We are proud to have women driving growth within the organisation across various functions including management, product engineering, and design. We remain committed to our promise of opening doors for women around the world and this initiative is another step in this direction” said Taru Kapoor, GM, Tinder and Match Group, India.

How it works:

Sign up through this application form. You can also access this form through Tinder India’s Instagram handle @tinder_india. Applications are evaluated on need, brand fit, and relevance to Gen Z and millennial audiences.
If you have been selected or should Tinder need additional information, Tinder will reach out to you via email in 2-14 business days.
Once you receive an email confirmation, you will be asked to provide marketing materials and copy for your ad. Ads are subject to Tinder’s guidelines, restrictions, and formatting requirements.

About Tinder

Tinder was introduced on a college campus in 2012 and is the world’s most popular app for meeting new people. It has been downloaded more than 340 million times and is available in 190 countries and 40+ languages. As of Q3 2019, Tinder had nearly 5.7 million subscribers and was the highest grossing non-gaming app globally.