ADW To Provide Platform For Growth, Funding To 47 Defence Startups

The third edition of Ahmedabad Design Week – ADW 3.0 – which is being organised by Karnavati University, will become a big platform for defence sector start-ups to be able to showcase their ideas and breakthrough innovations before the investors and experts. Some 47 startups are set to benefit from this opportunity. This year’s theme for ADW 3.0 is Design and Innovation in Defence and Aerospace – a topic of strategic importance. The event will be inaugurated by the Honourable General MM Naravane, Chief of Army Staff, Indian Army; along with Shri Hari Babu Srivastava, Outstanding Scientist and Director General – Technology Management (TM), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), on February 26.

Some of these startups work in Augmented Reality-based solutions for Remote Assistance; electro-optic surveillance systems, UAV heavy lifters, holographic solutions, drone technology, surveillance equipment and sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) and sensor-enabled systems for industrial health applications, cyber security, among others.

“Startups are known for bringing about breakthrough innovations in technology. This year’s theme of ADW 3.0 is very much in line with the Government of India’s vision of achieving Atmanirbharta in Defence Manufacturing. Startups, known for breakthrough innovations and disruptions, have a major role to play here. The ADW 3.0 will see a host of defence industry experts in addition to industry thought leaders who understand precise requirements of the sector. We at Karnavati University aim to bridge this gap between investors, industry experts and startups,” said Mr Ritesh Hada, president, Karnavati University.

“Identifying the right technology and fund it at the right stage, will go a long way in helping these new ventures scale up their innovations and aid in attaining self-reliance in defence manufacturing in India,” Mr Hada further went on to say.

Representatives from industry organisations such as Monarch Networth Capital, GVFL, CII and GCCI, will evaluate the ideas of the startups and forge partnerships through funding and mentorship support.

Vi And A5G Networks Partner To Enable Industry 4.0, Smart Cities, And Smart Mobile Edge Network

Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL), India's leading telecom operator, today announced its collaboration with A5G Networks, Inc. to enable industry 4.0 and smart mobile edge computing in India. Vi and A5G Networks have together set up a pilot private network in Mumbai utilising existing 4G spectrum.

Vi’s association with A5G Networks is in line with its commitment to realize Digital India dreams with the latter’s differentiated and unique 4G, 5G, and Wi-Fi autonomous software for distributed Networks. A5G Networks software is fully cloud-native containerized software built for hybrid and multi-cloud infrastructure.

Through this engagement, Vi has already set up an end-to-end private network using A5G Networks’ autonomous core software and white box RAN elements in Mumbai, showcasing industrial automation use cases, enterprise applications, and low latency scenarios - all while seamlessly interconnecting with the operator network.

"Vi is committed to providing superior services to digital enterprises and consumers to enhance user experiences, empowered by an autonomous network," said Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Idea Ltd. "As part of our digital transformation journey on the 5G roadmap, we are happy to partner with A5G Networks to bring new services enabling industry 4.0 and smart cities in the digital era."

"We are excited to be a part of this important journey for Digital India with Vi," said Rajesh Mishra, Founder, and CEO of A5G Networks. "Vi is committed to delivering best-in-class services to their subscribers and driving the Digital India movement. Success depends upon a highly resilient, secure, and flexible network infrastructure.

Vi is partnering with technology leaders and innovators to set up digital networks enabling several low latency applications, private networks, smart cities, and connected cars.

About Vodafone Idea Limited

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is India’s leading telecom service provider. The Company provides pan India Voice and Data services across 2G, 3G, 4G and has a 5G ready platform. With the large spectrum portfolio to support the growing demand for data and voice, the company is committed to deliver delightful customer experiences and contribute towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The Company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The Company is listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in India.

The company offers products and services to its customers in India under the TM Brand name “Vi”.

For more information, visit: www.MyVi.in and www.vodafoneidea.com

About A5G Networks Inc.

A5G Networks Inc. is a leader and innovator in autonomous mobile network infrastructure. The company is headquartered in Nashua, NH, USA with offices in Pune MH, India. A5G Networks is pioneering secure and scalable 4G, 5G and Wi-Fi software to enable distributed network of networks.

To learn more about A5G Networks, visit www.a5gnet.com

Godrej Appliances Launches Wide Range Air Conditioners With Smart IOT Controls, 99.9% UV Virus Sterilization, Advanced Cooling

* Projects more than double growth over last summer, meeting pre-covid levels

Godrej & Boyce, the flagship company of the Godrej Group, announced that its business Godrej Appliances, has launched its premium range of Air Conditioners with advanced cooling, air purification technology, IoT controls, differentiated aesthetics and more. These air conditioners provide smart controls to increasingly tech savvy consumers, along with comfort and safety through IoT, UVCool technology, Nano Coated Anti-Viral filtration, lower derating and more.

Higher internet penetration and increased access to smartphones has revolutionised consumer behaviour, and the pandemic has increased digital familiarity by leaps and bounds; thereby bringing in more demand for tech-enabled devices. To cater to consumer’s growing acceptance for smart ACs, Godrej Appliances has introduced its all-new Godrej Eon D series air conditioners and will also have these newer technologies incorporated in some of its other existing product range. These smart air conditioners are wi-fi enabled. The ACs are voice enabled with Alexa and Google Home compatibility. They can also be operated remotely through android smartphones to control temperature, fan speed, mode setting, schedule time as well as easy monitoring of the ACs’ health. It aims to provide comfort and convenience to consumers through remote scheduling and monitoring.

The pandemic has also brought about a greater focus on health and hygiene aspects in any product that consumers purchase. The all new UVCool Technology incorporated in Godrej ACs help to disinfect the air as well as the surfaces of objects such as fabric, wood, metal placed in the room where the AC is operational. The UV module is placed inside the AC on the evaporators which emits UVC rays in the range of 260-275nm. This is the optimal wavelength emitted from the UV module, enough to disinfect 99.99%* viral particles, bacteria, fungus and other air pathogens from the surface of the evaporator. Moreover, Nano Coated Anti-Viral filter eliminates 99.9%**+ viral particles from the air to provide safety to the consumers.

Additionally, the heavy-duty rotary inverter compressor coupled with an electronic expansion valve and superior design provides faster and efficient cooling along with lower derating – ensuring superior cooling even at high ambient temperatures of 52°C. These ACs are available with combination of R290 & R32 refrigerants, that are eco-friendly with zero ozone depletion potential and lower global warming potential.

Commenting on the product launch, Kamal Nandi, Business Head and Executive Vice President – Godrej Appliances, part of Godrej & Boyce said, “In line with our philosophy of ‘Things Made Thoughtfully’, we are embracing new age technologies to deliver best-in-class solutions for our consumers. Our indigenous manufacturing expansion is helping us offer a wider AC portfolio to our consumers, with greater design possibilities. While summer sales for AC in 2021 was better than 2020 summer, however the business still hasn’t reached pre-covid levels. With the third wave practically over, vaccination drive covering a larger population and summer temperatures rising, we expect more than double growth in our AC sales this summer in comparison to last year.”

Adding further thoughts, Santosh Salian, Product Group Head, Godrej Appliances said, “Our foray into smart air conditioners and health & hygiene segment, is a testament to our commitment towards solving the needs of consumers by providing them with future ready products through latest technology. This summer, we are all set to offer a host of 21 new inverter split ACs all providing powerful cooling which has all along been our strength, along with Nano Coated Anti-Viral filter and UVC technology, IoT enabled smart controls, super-efficient ACs with high ISEER, durability and superior aesthetics.”

The Godrej Eon D series air conditioners are available in White, Copper and Rose Gold colour options across ecommerce platforms as well as offline pan India stores.

About Godrej Appliances:

Godrej Appliances, a business unit of Godrej & Boyce, is one of the leading Home Appliances players in India. Godrej & Boyce was the first Indian Company in 1958 to manufacture Refrigerators and since then Godrej Appliances has expanded its portfolio across many other categories like Washing Machines, Air Conditioners, Microwave Ovens, futuristic Thermo-electric cooling solutions, Air Coolers, Deep Freezers, highly specialized Medical Refrigerators and more recently, UVC Technology-Based Disinfecting devices and Dishwashers, all powered by the driving philosophy of 'Things Made Thoughtfully’.

This thought extends from human-centric design to planet centric design. Environment is a core value at Godrej. Both manufacturing units of Godrej Appliances became the first in the country to win the coveted Platinum Plus Green Co certification for their pioneering green manufacturing practices. The brand takes pride in not just its carefully designed products and environment-friendly technologies, but also best in class after-sales service delivered through over 680 service centers and more than 4500 SmartBuddy service experts spread all over the country.

To learn more visit: https://www.godrej.com/godrej-appliances

Ashok Soota, Executive Chairman Of Happiest Minds Is Among India’s 100 Great People Managers 2021

Happiest Minds Technologies Limited (NSE: HAPPSTMNDS), a ‘Born Digital . Born Agile,’ Mindful IT Company, announced today that Ashok Soota,  Executive Chairman, is featured among the Top 100 Great People Managers in a study by Great Manager Institute® and published in Forbes India.

Great Manager Institute® follows a four-layer process to arrive at the final list of the 100 greatest people leaders in the country. The process involves feedback from various stakeholders associated with the leader, evaluation of their practices that make them unique, and reputation checks involving technology-driven methods powered by surveys and quantitative evaluation tools.

The Great People Manager Study 2021, had 10,273 leaders and managers from 4,189 participating organizations. The Top 100 list has a diverse mix of founders, CEOs and senior and junior managers and the event is all about people revolutionizing the world of business. The Top 100 list  is derived through the Great People Manager Study, the largest study of People Managers and Leaders in India that helps to recognize Great People Managers and the companies that nurture them.

Read the full article published in Forbes India: https://www.forbesindia.com/article/great-people-managers/great-people-managers-good-leaders-make-great-businesses/72981/1.

About Happiest Minds Technologies:

Happiest Minds Technologies Limited (NSE: HAPPSTMNDS), a Mindful IT Company, enables digital transformation for enterprises and technology providers by delivering seamless customer experiences, business efficiency and actionable insights. We do this by leveraging a spectrum of disruptive technologies such as: artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud, digital process automation, internet of things, robotics/drones, security, virtual/augmented reality, etc. Positioned as ‘Born Digital . Born Agile’, our capabilities span digital solutions, infrastructure, product engineering and security. We deliver these services across industry sectors such as automotive, BFSI, consumer packaged goods, e-commerce, EduTech, engineering R&D, healthcare, hi-tech, manufacturing, retail and travel/transportation/hospitality.

A Great Place to Work-Certified™ Company, Happiest Minds is headquartered in Bangalore, India with operations in the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia and Middle East.

MAHE And bioMérieux To Establish Center Of Excellence In Antimicrobial Resistance And Antimicrobial Stewardship In South Asia

* Partnership to deliver high-value solutions, expertise, and service in Antimicrobial Stewardship to improve patient care

Manipal Academy of Higher Education and bioMérieux announced the signature of the framework agreement to create a Center of Excellence for Antimicrobial Resistance and Antimicrobial Stewardship. This new generation laboratory will be located at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal.

The increasing and inappropriate use of antibiotic treatment for both human and animal medicine is fueling the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria around the world. Common infectious diseases are becoming more and more difficult to treat, which is alarming for the entire healthcare community.

A recent report* by The Lancet estimates 1.27 million people die from Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) each year. If no action is taken, AMR could lead to 10 million people dying every year by 2050, according to the World Health Organization**. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is key to fighting resistance and sustaining antibiotic efficacy for future generations as it allows patients to get the right drug, at the right dose at the right time.

bioMérieux and Manipal Academy of Higher Education have a shared vision for the future of managing AMR & improving antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) initiatives. Through this agreement, Manipal Academy of Higher Education has become a partner of choice to define and demonstrate Medical & Economic value and data-driven best practices around AMS, to improve AMS interventions and showcase how throughout the medical community across South Asia. They are also collaborating in a clinical performance evaluation of new diagnostic solutions. Manipal Academy of Higher Education is using its unique panel of academic, technical, and business experts to address the topic of AMR & AMS.

As a world leader in in vitro diagnostics, bioMérieux provides its expertise in advanced diagnostic technologies, IT and lab automation, as well as training and quality management support. A dedicated team is accompanying Manipal Academy of Higher Education to support their AMS initiatives to optimize the use of antibiotics and fight against the transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). With its comprehensive range of diagnostic solutions and deep knowledge on data generation for and beyond the lab, bioMérieux will directly support frontline AMS stakeholders, including clinicians and pharmacists, with timely, integrated diagnostic insights to support patient therapy and stewardship intervention.

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education said “We consider bioMérieux as a global partner with long-standing commitment & expertise in infectious disease diagnostics and a strong presence worldwide. We are convinced that working together will boost the efficiency and the quality of patient care and will show significant improvement in antimicrobial stewardship measures,”

Rajan Nagar, Vice President & General Manager – bioMérieux, South Asia added “We are extremely pleased by this partnership as we benefit from the expertise of the leading microbiologists and clinicians at Manipal Academy of Higher Education to fight against antimicrobial resistance and further develop antimicrobial stewardship solutions. We are convinced that rapid patient results and epidemiological information will enable microbiologists and clinicians to work together more closely and effectively with the aim of improving patient care.”

This landmark event was witnessed by Dr P L N G Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr Venkatraya Prabhu, Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Registrar, MAHE, Dr Chiranjay Mukhopadhyay, Associate Dean, Dr Krishnananda Prabhu, Associate Dean, Dr Vandana K E, Professor and Head, Department of Microbiology, from KMC, Manipal. The bioMérieux was represented by Mr Somnath Banerjee, Mr Soumyabrata Chakraborty and Dr Navjeet Singh.

* https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(22)00087-3/fulltext

**https://www.who.int/news/item/29-04-2019-new-report-calls-for-urgent-action-to-avert-antimicrobial-resistance-crisis  About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

ABOUT Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Manipal is synonymous with excellence in higher education and MAHE is one of India's leading academic and research institutions. It has been granted Institution of Eminence status by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India. Manipal has created some of the country's best institutes/schools across several diverse streams and Kasturba Medical College being the jewel in the crown. Currently, in 300+ programs across 31 disciplines, over 28,000 students from 57 different nations live, learn, and play in the sprawling University town of Manipal. Research has always been an area of paramount importance at Manipal. The experts at Manipal are taking meticulous and meaningful steps to build reservoirs of intellectual wealth and academic excellence. MAHE promotes Innovation and Entrepreneurship among students, faculty, alumni as well as people of the region by providing required facilities & support.

Established in 1953, Kasturba Medical College has been the flagship institution of Manipal Academy of higher education which by itself is the top ranked private medical university in the country and an Institute of Eminence.  KMC, Manipal has been consistently ranked in the top 10 medical college in the country since many decades. The college is well supported by Kasturba Hospital, a premier tertiary center with 2032 beds and is the apex teaching hospital established in 1961. Other information can be found at www.manipal.edu

ABOUT BIOMÉRIEUX

Pioneering Diagnostics

A world leader in the field of in vitro diagnostics for over 55 years, bioMérieux is present in 44 countries and serves more than 160 countries with the support of a large network of distributors. In 2020, revenues reached €3.1 billion, with over 90% of international sales (outside of France).

bioMérieux provides diagnostic solutions (systems, reagents, software and services) which determine the source of disease and contamination to improve patient health and ensure consumer safety. Its products are mainly used for diagnosing infectious diseases. They are also used for detecting microorganisms in agri-food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Corporate website: www.biomerieux.com.

ABOUT BIOMÉRIEUX’S COMPLETE ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP (AMS) SOLUTION

One of bioMérieux’s healthcare missions is to help sustain the use of antibiotic efficiency for generations to come. To support hospitals, institutions and laboratories with their AMS programs, bioMérieux has a complete solution covering antibiotic therapy initiation, optimization and discontinuation. This constantly evolving offer provides labs with timely, accurate results to adjust therapy, transforms data into actionable insights and integrates smoothly into any hospital with its flexible partnership approach. bioMérieux has over 55 years of microbiology expertise with more than 75% of its R&D directed to AMR/AMS research to ensure the current offer evolves to meet customers’ AMS needs.

Bosch Global Software Technologies Strengthens Commitment To Sustainability Plants 25,000 Saplings To Celebrate 25 Years In India

Bosch Global Software Technologies (BGSW), formerly known as Robert Bosch Engineering and Business Solutions (RBEI), has partnered with Forests by Heartfulness to "plant 25,000 saplings in a mini-forest plantation drive to celebrate its 25 years" legacy in India and also to represent its 25,000 associate strength. This multi-city plantation which will be across Bangalore, Coimbatore and Hyderabad was kicked off on February 24, 2022.  

Speaking on the initiative Mr. RK Shenoy, SVP – Mobility Engineering and Member of Executive Leadership, BGSW said, "This plantation drive marks our commitment to sustainability. BGSW focuses on improving the quality of life and this is reflected in our commitment to developing new products and high-tech solutions that are intelligent, connected, and sustainable. We are celebrating 25 years of our legacy in India and our recent rebranding to BGSW through an initiative that will leave a positive enduring impact for many decades to come. Globally Bosch has taken many steps on sustainability and one of the first to be Carbon neutral. BGSW has been driving many initiatives including lake rejuvenation. This is one more small but sincere step in the conservation and maintenance of the planet's ecological balance. Together with the local community, we can fight climate change and create a healthy environment for the next generation." 

Mr. Kamlesh Patel (aka Daaji), President and Guide of Heartfulness said, “‘Forests by Heartfulness is our endeavor to create widespread awareness and enhance sustainable green cover for the future generations. The amount of flora that needs to be replenished for the natural ecosystem to be restored, is not an overnight process nor can it be a single entity initiative. It is a shared responsibility amongst various stakeholders – corporates, governments, NGOs, forestry, and individuals as well. We are greatly encouraged to see the interest within corporates to actively collaborate with this initiative towards building a green legacy. We congratulate Bosch Global Software Technologies (BGSW) towards taking up this large-scale multi-city mini-forest plantation drive across many cities marking their 25 years in India and commitment to sustainability.”  

With 25,000 Sapling across Bangalore, Hyderabad and Coimbatore, this project focuses on improving biodiversity, creating a microclimate to abate city pollution, providing naturally grown fruits and medicinal herbs to the local communities, raising the local water table, and reducing at least 5,000 tonnes of carbon emission over the next ten years. BGSW with their NGO partner, Heartfulness will collaborate with local communities to take care of saplings and provide the necessary technology for geotagging and monitoring their growth for at least two years to ensure nutrient management. 

The 25,000 saplings will be planted using Forests by Heartfulness proprietary Heartyculture High Density (HCHD) plantation method. This method involves extensive soil reconstitution using Activated Biochar, Vermicompost, Cow manure, and Cocopeat. BGSW will facilitate the plantation of over 100 different species of trees to create a mini forest. The trees selected for the plantation drive are native, endemic and support one another through an extensive root network. 

About Bosch Global Software Technologies Pvt Ltd, BGSW :  

Bosch Global Software Technologies, formerly known as Robert Bosch Engineering and Business Solutions is a 100% owned subsidiary of Robert Bosch GmbH, one of the world’s leading global suppliers of technology and services, offering end-to-end Engineering, IT and Business Solutions. With over 23,000 associates, it’s the largest software development center of Bosch, outside Germany, indicating that it’s the Technology Powerhouse of Bosch in India with a global footprint and presence in US, Europe and the Asia Pacific region. With our unique ability to offer end-to-end solutions that connect sensors, software, and services, we enable businesses to move from the traditional to digital or improve businesses by introducing a digital element in their products and processes. 

Photo Captions :  Kiran Sundara Raman, Vice President and Center Head Hyderabad, Mr. RK Shenoy, SVP – Mobility Engineering and Member of Executive Leadership; Mr. Amarnath Reddy, Chief Relations Officer - Information Technology, Electronics & Communications Dept. Govt. of Telangana BGSW at the Heartfulness Headquarters participating at the 'mega plantation drive' 

Vogue Conducts Unique Workshop On Tanjore Painting For Apparel

The Vogue Institute of Art and Design (VIAD) conducted a one- day workshop for students today at the institute’s premises. Tanjore Painting Expert Nagashree B N conducted the session. This unique workshop was organised to restore Tanjore painting and to train students with the latest art of Tanjore Painting on apparel.

This classical South Indian Painting style is characterized by its rich colors, glittering 22ct gold foil & precious stone/bead inlay work. The delicate gesso work gives 3D effects. . In earlier times, the paintings were created with natural pigments. Now it's been replaced with chemical colors. Traditionally the paintings are done for wall art. Now it is being explored on fabric for apparel like blouse, sarees and kurtas.

Nagashree BN, Tanjore Painting Expert took the students through the traditional representation and technical live demonstration of the Tanjore style of painting on apparel like sarees, blouse, kurtas etc. The students were trained in contemporary Tanjore art which included learning to paint, use of vibrant colors, 3D liners & metallic paints to create an 3D extravagant depiction of Thanjavur inspired traditional art form.  The paintings created by students at the workshop were put on display at the Vogue Institute Gallery.

Talking about the unique workshop, Nishank Kariappa, General Manager, Vogue Institute of Art and Design said, “The students got a highly participatory exposure to Tanjore Painting on fabric for outfits for the first time. Tanjore painting originated from the town of Thanjavur (anglicized as Tanjore). The usage of rich vibrant colors, glittering gold foils, with gesso work explored their creative realms which can be infused and inspired with their designs on outfits like blouse, kurta or a saree.”

In today's world, hobbyists are inspired by this unique traditional art form & have been painting them on the clothes they wear using fabric painting techniques. A classical art form has reached the common man in a different style. But the overall experience of the process is overwhelming. Over the years this particular art form has been transformed. In contemporary art world, these paintings are done on canvas, paper, MDF, home decor, fabrics, jewellery, accessories etc.

Chaithra Chander , HOD (Diploma branch), Vogue Institute of Art and Design said, “India is a country known for its beautiful tradition and culture. India has many art forms which are recognized globally. Tanjore is one such classical art form from southern India. It is a unique form of painting with vibrant colours and mythological stories, which was initially made on wooden planks, In recent days this art form has been adopted onto fabrics especially South Indian silk textiles.”

Tanjore Painting Expert, Nagashree BN apprised, “Tanjore Painting on fabric was a workshop uniquely designed for beginners to explore their artistic side. This one day workshop helped the students to create Tanjore inspired motif on fabric.”

Bhavikaa T Dhariwall , Student, Vogue Institute of Art and Design who participated in the workshop said, “I joined this workshop because it sounded very interesting. The Tanjore painting workshop was very helpful as we understood the intricacies of this traditional form of Indian art which will allow us to use these in our future designs. I am extremely thankful to our teachers for having organized this for us to be able to widen our horizons and help us learn some old forms of art which is not very common these days.