BLS E- Services Limited Files DRHP For IPO

BLS E- Services Limited ("The Company") s a leading technology enabled digital service provider of (i) Business Correspondents services to major banks in India, (ii) Assisted E-services; and (iii) E-Governance Services at grass root levels in India, has filed its DRHP with market regulator Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

The Company plans to raise funds through an Initial public offering (IPO) of Fresh Issue of up to 2, 41, 30,000 equity shares  (face value Rs.10).

Company proposes to utilise the Net Proceeds towards funding the following objects: 1. strengthening technology infrastructure to develop new capabilities and consolidating existing platforms; 2. funding initiatives for organic growth by setting up of BLS Stores; 3. Achieving inorganic growth through acquisitions; and 4. General Corporate Purposes.

The Equity Shares that will be offered through the Draft Red Herring Prospectus are proposed to be listed on the BSE Limited (“BSE”) and National Stock Exchange of India Limited (“NSE”)

Unistone Capital Private Limited is the sole Book Running Lead Managers to the issue.

About The Company: 

BLS E- Services through its tech-enabled integrated business model provide digital and physical products and services in the G2C, B2C, B2B categories in semi-urban, rural and remote areas where penetration of internet is low and citizens need assistance in availing basic technology enabled services. Company organize its business along three primary business segments, (i) Business Correspondents Services; (ii) Assisted E-services; and (iii) E-Governance Services. A key stakeholder in each of its business segments are merchants, with whom BLS E-Services collaborate for delivery of its products and services to the citizens. As a part of their operations, the company act as business correspondents to provide banking products and services on behalf of banks to people while performing a variety of services including opening savings, recurring deposit accounts, cash deposits, withdrawals, remittance, transfer, bill collection services, through its  Subsidiaries, namely ZMPL and Starfin. Company  also provide a variety of assisted eservices through retailers and digital stores also known as BLS Touchpoints, including PoS services, ticketing services, assisted e-commerce services, etc. Further, it facilitate delivery of various e-governance initiatives of the State Governments in India by providing various information communication technology (“ICT”) enabled citizen centric services (“E-Governance Services”) through its merchants also known as BLS Touchpoints to the citizens. Company’s  EGovernance Services, enable the provision of citizen-centric and front-end services through BLS Touchpoints ranging from birth and death certificates, PAN and Aadhar registrations, property registrations, and other citizen centric services in a transparent and accountable manner. BLS E-Services has entered into an MOU with the National e- Governance Division (“NeGD”) for agent assisted delivery of unified mobile application for new-age Governance (“UMANG”) services into its digital platform, offering convenient access of E-Governance Services.

How To Manage Diabetes Effectively At Work

To fuel your career ambitions and professional growth, good health plays a key role. Health shouldn’t hold anyone back professionally. One of the most growing health conditions today that people need to manage effectively – including in the workplace - is diabetes. With careful planning, you can keep your blood sugar levels in check, so you continue to be at your best – throughout the work day and beyond.

Dr. Kranti Shireesh Khadilkar, Endocrinologist, Narayana Health, Bangalore, commented, “India now has over 101 million people living with diabetes – a rise from 77 million in 2019.[i],[ii] Diabetes is a chronic lifestyle condition that needs to be managed properly to lessen the risk of other health problems in the future. For working professionals, many of whom are doing desk jobs, this can be challenging. As a result, people living with diabetes are sometimes inconsistent with their lifestyle changes and don’t take their medicines as prescribed. It is critical for people with diabetes to take necessary steps to effectively manage their diabetes and properly follow the treatment schedule for better health outcomes.”

Ashwini Pawar, Medical Affairs Director for Abbott in India said, “For people with diabetes, disease management is important for maintaining good health. However, many don’t take their medicines as prescribed. At Abbott, we go beyond treating diseases by helping people build better habits and addressing typical barriers for taking timely medication. Introducing patient-centric innovations such as making tablets with a special coating that make them easier to swallow, can help people overcome difficulties. Through such measures, we hope to help patients effectively manage diabetes so they can lead healthier lives while performing at their best.”

Here Are 7 Steps To Help You Keep Your Diabetes In Check At Work:

Have a diabetes action plan that suits your work life: Navigating your diabetes and work journey starts even before you reach the office. Getting good sleep at night matters[vi] – as does how you plan for the day. Create a routine so you don’t skip breakfast – which is important to keep sugar highs and lows at bay.[vii] Decide whether you want to have this meal at home or when you get to work but keep it nutritious. Limit empty calories and cut back on salt and saturated fat.[viii],[ix]

Snack smart: Whether a co-worker is munching on chips or fried foods or candy, or offering everyone mithai with celebratory news, you are always surrounded with unhealthy temptations. Avoiding snacking entirely can be tough, so have them in moderation, and be mindful of what you eat. Keep healthy snacks at hand – fruits, salad, nuts, yogurt – for when cravings hit.[x] Also remember to stay hydrated with water over sugary and caffeinated drinks.

Healthy Lunch Matters: Pack lunch smartly so you can enjoy a healthy, balanced meal and aren’t only dependant on outside food. A diabetes-friendly diet includes leafy greens (like spinach), non-starchy vegetables (like carrots, tomatoes, onions, okra, cauliflower), healthy carbs (like whole grains and brown rice), lean proteins (including eggs, beans, and chicken), and fruits low in carbohydrates (such as oranges).[xi],[xii] On days with special events, whether a colleague’s birthday or team lunch, watch your calorie intake beforehand.

In addition to following a balanced diet, it is crucial to monitor your glucose levels before and after meals. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices can be helpful in tracking your glucose levels throughout the day, providing real-time data to aid in managing your diabetes.

Stick to your medication routine: To manage your diabetes well, adhering to medication is important, which helps maintain glycemic control. In case you need to take any medication at work, be sure to set reminders – maybe on your phone or with a post-it note on your desk.

Let your team be in the know: If you feel comfortable, talk to your manager and team about living with diabetes. This may help you request for more flexible adjustments, or even consistency with lunch breaks. You can also discuss critical steps necessary in case of a glucose emergency, so they know how to help you if such situations arise.

Get moving: Many at work have sedentary lifestyles. Physical activity helps people with diabetes manage their condition better. Get active by stretching at your desk, taking short walks around the office, up and down the stairs, or even outside. A recent study found that a post-meal walk also helps lower your blood sugar levels.[xiii] Further, try fitting exercise into your routine before or after work.

Learn to manage stress: When you are stressed, you may notice your glucose levels changing.[xiv] Sometimes, you may be overwhelmed at work. Good coping mechanisms help keep your blood sugar levels in check when things get difficult.[xv] Try meditating in a quiet corner, find time to unwind (talk to a colleague or take a break), and identify and manage stressors.  

Try finding a diabetes-friendly routine that works for you, so you can better manage your diabetes at work! 

MAHiE Secures Top Spot Among Deemed To Be Universities In Outlook-ICARE India University Rankings 2023

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal has been crowned the numero uno among the top 40 deemed to be universities in India, according to the prestigious Outlook-ICARE India University Rankings 2023. The university's unwavering commitment to academic excellence, holistic development, and industry engagement has catapulted it to the pinnacle of Indian higher education.

Underlining its dedication to fostering holistic growth, Manipal Academy of Higher Education has received commendable scores across various categories, firmly establishing its position as a frontrunner in the realm of higher education. The university garnered an exceptional score of 917.15 out of 1000, with standout performances in Academic & Research Excellence, Industry Interface & Placement, Infrastructure & Facilities, Governance & Extension, and Diversity & Outreach.

Dr. HS Ballal, Pro Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, expressed his elation at the university's remarkable achievement, stating, "In alignment with the enduring principles of our esteemed founder, Dr. TMA Pai, we are humbled by this recognition conferred upon us by the Outlook-ICARE India University Rankings. This accomplishment underscores our ceaseless pursuit of academic and research excellence, and it mirrors the tireless dedication of our students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders. We remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding Dr. Pai's values and delivering educational eminence."

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, further emphasized the institution's dedication to holistic education, saying, "Manipal Academy of Higher Education is resolute in providing not only world-class academic experiences but also nurturing well-rounded individuals who are equipped to lead in a dynamic global landscape. This recognition bolsters our resolve to continue providing education that empowers our students to excel intellectually, professionally, and personally."

The Outlook-ICARE India University Rankings 2023 assess universities based on key parameters, including Academic & Research Excellence, Industry Interface & Placement, Infrastructure & Facilities, Governance & Extension, and Diversity & Outreach. Manipal Academy of Higher Education's exceptional scores across these categories are a testament to its comprehensive approach to education and its continuous efforts to provide students with an environment conducive to growth and learning.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education is now positioned at the zenith of higher education in India, setting an example for academic institutions nationwide and exemplifying the embodiment of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity in education.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE):

MAHE is recognized as a leading quality academic and education service provider and has significantly contributed to continuously improving the standards and penetration of higher education in India. The Manipal Academy of Higher Education has, as its genesis, an enthralling story of a genius, the late Dr. T. M. A. Pai who had the vision of making society rid of the three major ills of illiteracy, ill health, and poverty. It provides a great variety of graduate and postgraduate skill enhancement educational courses covering several important disciplines like medicine, engineering, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, allied health, management, communication, life sciences, hotel administration, etc. through its 28 Professional Higher Education institutions. It has world class academic and research departments in Statistics, Commerce, Geopolitics & International Relations, European Studies, Philosophy & Humanities, Atomic & Molecular Physics, etc. Over 40,000 students from all over the world pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in diverse subjects. The finest of infrastructure facilities, state-of-the-art equipment, well-equipped laboratories, and dedicated and competent faculty have enabled MAHE to be recognized as Institution of Eminence status by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. The University has two Off-Campus centres, one each at Mangalore and Bangalore, One Medical College with TATA Group at Jamshedpur and two Off-Shore campuses, one in Dubai (UAE) and the other in Melaka (Malaysia).

For further information log on to: https://manipal.edu/mu.html

EPACK Durables Limited Files DRHP With SEBI

EPACK Durables Limited (“The Company”) has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (“DRHP”) with market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (“SEBI”). According to F&S Report, the company is the fastest growing room air conditioner original design manufacturers (“ODM”) based on growth in volume manufactured between Fiscals 2020 and 2023 in India.

The Company plans to raise funds through initial public offerings of equity shares (face value ? 10 each). The offer comprises of fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to ? 400 crore (The “Fresh Issue”) and offer for sale up to 13,067,890 equity share by Selling Shareholders (The “Offer for Sale”).

The company proposes to utilize net proceeds from fresh issue towards - 1. Funding capital expenditure for the expansion / setting up of manufacturing facilities; 2. Repayment and / or prepayment, in part or in full, of certain outstanding loans of our Company and 3. General corporate purposes.

The Offer for Sale comprises of - up to 1,172,976 equity shares by Bajrang Bothra, up to 666,798 equity shares by Laxmi Pat Bothra, up to 748,721 equity shares by Sanjay Singhania, up to 748,721 equity shares by Ajay DD Singhania (collectively, the “promoter selling shareholders”), up to 286,351 equity shares by Pinky Ajay Singhania, up to 286,351 equity shares by Preity Singhania, up to 442,905 equity shares by Nikhil Bothra, up to 442,905 equity shares by Nitin Bothra, up to 379,633 equity shares Rajjat Kumar Bothra (collectively, the “promoter group selling shareholders”), up to 72,61,127 equity shares by India advantage fund S4 I and up to 6,31,402 equity shares by Dynamic India fund S4 US I (collectively, the "investor selling shareholders).

The Equity Shares that will be offered through the Red Herring Prospectus are proposed to be listed on the BSE Limited (“BSE”) and National Stock Exchange of India Limited (“NSE”)

Axis Capital Limited, DAM Capital Advisors Limited, ICICI Securities Limited are the Book Running Lead Managers to the issue.

About The Company: 

EPACK Durables Limited  is the fastest growing room air conditioner original design manufacturers (“ODM”) based on growth in volume manufactured between Fiscals 2020 and 2023 in India (Source: F&S Report). Further, the company is the second largest ODM manufacturer in the Indian room air conditioner manufacturing market, with a market share of 29% in terms of volume manufactured in Fiscal 2023 (this does not include the units which are imported as kits and gas filling is done in India). (Source: F&S Report)

EPACK Durables Limited is a customer-centric business driven by a focus on continuing innovation and operational efficiency. Since 2003, it has been on a journey of evolution, where it initially started as an OEM for RAC brands. Driven by company’s focus on product development and innovation, EPACK Durables Limited evolved into an ODM partner for RACs for its customers.

EPACK Durables Limited also identified the opportunity to increase its value addition in its offerings to customers, and accordingly, started manufacturing of various components such as sheet metal, injection moulded, cross flow fans and PCBA components which are actively used in the manufacturing of RACs. In parallel, company capitalised on its existing manufacturing infrastructure to strategically expand its operations in the small domestic appliances (“SDA”) market, particularly considering the seasonality of the demand for RACs, and currently design and manufacture induction cooktops, mixer-grinders, and water dispensers. This evidences company’s continued focus on the backward integration of its operations and diversification of their revenue streams.

EPACK Durables Limited commenced its operations with a single manufacturing unit in Dehradun, Uttarakhand in 2003, and have since expanded its manufacturing operations with Dehradun Unit II, Dehradun Unit III and Dehradun Unit IV, and manufacturing facility at Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. The company is also in the process of setting up a third facility at Sri City, Andhra Pradesh.

EPACK Durables Limited over the course of its business operations established long-standing relationships with several well-known Indian and global customers. Some of its customers for  RAC products include Blue Star Limited, Daikin Airconditioning India Private Limited, Carrier Midea India Private Limited, Voltas Limited, Havells India Limited, Haier Appliances (India) Private Limited, Infiniti Retail Limited and Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Company Limited, and for its SDA products include Bajaj Electricals Limited, BSH Household Appliances Manufacturing Private Limited, and Usha International Limited.

Croma Curates Thoughtful Raksha Bandhan Gifting Ideas!

Raksha Bandhan is like a bright jewel in India's collection of festivals. Among the many traditions of this day, giving gifts takes the spotlight – it's a canvas where feelings come together in a beautiful way, painted with love and care. Just as the threads of the Rakhi tie siblings, these gifts tell stories of laughter, shared secrets, and lots of fun times. With each thoughtful gift, unspoken feelings find a way to be understood, wrapping up the special bond in beautifully wrapped packages of love. Below are some exciting deals that Croma has to offer this Raksha Bandhan to strengthen bonds and spread happiness and warmth.

Carlton 2200W London Hair Dryer

Enjoy super-fast drying as soon as you buy Carlton London Hair Dryer online for your siblings this Raksha Bandhan. Now you can get the salon-quality style in the comfort of your own home. This product is a mixture of fashion and technology for your stylish siblings to blow dry and style their hair. It has a foldable handle design to make it travel-friendly. It facilitates you with three modes normal, hot, and cold air, for a salon-like finish. This product comes with a benefit of a diffuser which is the perfect hair accessory for those with curly to wavy hair, as it helps maintain the natural curl pattern. So, go ahead and order the Carlton London Hair Dryer online, right now or visit the nearest Croma Store!

Price: INR 1,990

Croma 3-in-1 Wireless Charger

Simplify your sibling's life with a thoughtful gift! No more carrying chargers during travel or work. Present them with the Croma 15 Watts Wireless Charging Pad. Ideal for daily use, travel, emergencies, and more. Compatible with QI-enabled phones and iOS devices. It's lightweight, offers quick charging, and features over-voltage protection. The reasonable price includes built-in safety features like short circuits and over-current protection. The LED indicator shows the charging status. Make your sibling's life easier – get the Croma 15 Watts Wireless Charging Pad online or in-store today!

Croma ANC TWS Earbud

Upgrade your audio experience this Raksha Bandhan! Introducing the Croma TWS Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation. These earbuds feature 13mm drivers for powerful bass and spacious acoustics. Enjoy uninterrupted listening with an astounding 30-hour battery life, thanks to the Type-C connector for swift charging. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit, making your music sessions a breeze. With Bluetooth 5.3, you get a stable connection and instant pairing. These earbuds are sweat and water-resistant (IPX5), perfect for any adventure. Their compact and stylish design adds to their allure. Elevate your gifting game – grab the Croma TWS Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation online today!

Price: INR 1,590

Croma Hook Bluetooth Speaker (CRER2107)

Take your tunes wherever you go this Raksha Bandhan and jam to your favorite songs with the Croma Bluetooth Speaker with Hook. This sleek, portable speaker in classic black boasts an easy power on/off button. With a reach of up to 10 meters, play your favorite tracks and groove with friends. The 300 mAh battery lasts a solid four hours at mid-volume. Plus, the built-in mic lets you chat hands-free. An added perk: the hook-shaped clip lets you attach it to wallets, purses, and bags, so your musical world is always at your side. Perfect for gifting – grab it now and spread the joy!

Price: INR 599

Croma Coffee Maker CRAK0028

Gift the joy of well-brewed coffee with the Croma Coffee Maker to all the coffee lover siblings. It whips up 1.5 litres in 10 minutes, and the 1-minute to 24-hour. The timer in this lets you customize brew time. It lets you keep your coffee warm with the auto shut-off feature. The water level gauge and LCD display help you in keeping you informed, and the Heat resistant glass carafe ensures durability, while the nylon filter is easy to clean. It also has a feature dripping safe and is also equipped with overheating safety; this maker guarantees perfect coffee every time you meet your siblings. Simplify Raksha Bandhan gifting for coffee lovers by choosing the Croma Coffee Maker!

Price: INR 2490

Experian Recognised Among “Top Employers For Tech Talent In India”’ By Everest Group

Experian India, one of the leading data analytics and decisioning companies, announced its inclusion in the esteemed list of “Top Employers for Tech Talent” in India (Top 25), by Everest Group.  

Everest Group, a renowned research firm known for guiding business leaders in making confident decisions, conducted a comprehensive evaluation of over 400 leading tech employers in India, the United States, and the United Kingdom. In the Indian market, they meticulously assessed the top 135 employers for tech talent. Among them, only 25 were recognised as Top Employers, with Experian securing an impressive position in this elite group. 

Experian has achieved a highly favourable ranking in key areas such as the work environment, career development, employee satisfaction, diversity, and inclusion. It has also received a favourable rating in terms of attrition, compensation, and benefits. 

“This prestigious recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to cultivating a highly skilled and dynamic workforce. At Experian, our aim is to attract and retain top-notch tech talent, empowering them to thrive and deliver exceptional solutions that elevate operational and financial performance for our esteemed clients across the globe. This accolade reaffirms our holistic approach to nurturing talent and further strengthens our determination to lead in the ever-evolving tech landscape.” said Saikrishnan Srinivasan, Managing Director, Experian Credit Information Company of India (ECICI).  

“I am thrilled that Experian has been recognised as one of the Top Employers for Tech Talent in India and the United States," said Ravi Devesetti, Global Chief Technology Officer, Experian Software Solutions. "This award reflects our commitment to 'Engineering Excellence Everywhere'. We have invested significantly in our employees' growth and upskilling through innovative Learning & Development programs. At our core, we promote innovation and continuous learning through engaging hackathons. Our early careers and university partnerships have been instrumental in attracting top talent." 

Experian’s dedication to promote innovation has set it apart as a prominent player in the field. 

India's Rental Market Continues To Grow With Average Rents Increasing 4.9% QoQ: Magicbricks

* Rental demand increased 18.1% QoQ; Rental supply increased 9.6% QoQ 

* NCR (27.25%), MMR (18.35%), Pune (19.3%), Hyderabad (22%) and Bengaluru (12.8%) witnessed the highest increase in rental demand 

* Demand for 1 & 2 BHK units accounted for 80% of total rental searches; indicating preference towards compact and small apartments 

India's leading real estate platform, released its flagship Rental Index for April-June 2023, (https://property.magicbricks.com/microsite/research-insights/index.html)  observing that the rental demand across 13 major cities in India increased 18.1% QoQ , supply increased 9.6% QoQ while rents increased 4.9% QoQ. 

Based on the behavior and preferences of over 2 crore customers on Magicbricks platform, the report (https://property.magicbricks.com/microsite/research-insights/index.html) also observed that notable cities such as Bengaluru (8.1%), Navi Mumbai (7.3%), and Gurugram (5.1%) displayed the highest increment in average rents QoQ. Conversely, Delhi (- 0.9%) and Mumbai (-0.1%) witnessed marginal decline in rents QoQ. 

Sudhir Pai, the CEO, Magicbricks, commented, "Over the past year, rental housing demand surged in major Indian cities, driven by returning employees and students. Return to office culture boosted the need for workplace-proximate housing while educational institutions resumed in-person activities, drawing students back to city centers. Meanwhile, as property values soared, homeowners seized opportunities for profitable property sales over rentals, reducing supply. This, coupled with high demand, notably hiked rents across prominent Indian cities." 

As per the Magicbricks Report, the popularity of 2 BHK units remains unchallenged, commanding a significant 53% share in both demand and supply, followed by 1 BHK (27%) and 3 BHK (18%). The demand for 3 BHK units declined from 36% in Q1 2023 to 18% in Q2 2023, while the demand for 1 BHK units increased from 17% in Q1 2023 to 27% in the present quarter. This shift highlights a growing inclination toward compact apartments.  

The report concludes that beyond the factor of proximity to employment hubs, a significant driving force for demand this quarter is affordability. Rental accommodations with a monthly rent within INR 10,000 to 20,000 emerged as the favored choice among tenants. These preferences were predominantly observed within unit dimensions spanning from 500 to 1,000 square feet of covered area.

About Magicbricks: India's no 1 property site   

As the largest platform for buyers and sellers of property to connect in a transparent manner, Magicbricks has monthly traffic exceeding 2 crores and an active base of over 15 lakh property listings. Magicbricks has metamorphosed into a full stack service provider for all real estate needs, with 15+ services including home loans, pay rent, movers and packers, legal assistance, property valuation, and expert advice. 

With 15+ years of experience and deep research-based knowledge, Magicbricks also presents a repertoire of insight-driven platforms like MBTV- India’s leading online real estate YouTube channel, and other proprietary tools so that home buyers can access all information related to price trends and forecasts, locality reviews and more.