Renault And BLS E-Services Sign MoU To Boost Mobility In Rural India

* The partnership aims to enhance the reach and accessibility of Renault Products in rural markets

Renault India, the European car brand in India and BLS E-Services, a subsidiary of BLS International, has formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance the availability and accessibility of Renault’s new 2024 range of Kwid, Triber and Kiger - in rural India.

This partnership aims to boost the reach and accessibility of new 2024 range, stimulating product experience among consumers in rural market. Through this collaboration, Renault India will leverage BLS E-Services’ widespread network of approx.100,000 touchpoints, B2C, CSPs, and VLEs, along with 1,016 digital stores, to drive awareness and facilitate sales of Renault cars in rural and semi-urban regions across the country. Customers opting for BLS E-Services to book cars will enjoy seamless car booking experience, Finance options and access to hassle-free test drive facilities.

On this occasion, Mr. Sudhir Malhotra, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Renault India Private Limited (RIPL), said: “Rural India holds great potential for us, and through our collaboration with BLS E-Services, we aspire to deepen our presence in these markets by introducing our made-in-India, made for the world cars that are designed to cater the unique preferences of our customers. Leveraging the digital and on-site strengths of BLS, we have the assurance of presenting Renault's automotive technology to newer and diverse customer segments.”

Shikhar Aggarwal, Chairman of BLS E-Services, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “By forging this alliance with Renault India, we are sculpting a dynamic landscape of progress. Through an extensive distribution network, we are unleashing the prowess of Kwid, Triber, and Kiger across the tapestry rural landscape. This collaboration transcends transportation; it's a transformative journey, delivering Renault's automotive brilliance directly to the heart of rural India. Brace for the resonance of innovation echoing through every corner as we redefine the very fabric of mobility.”

This partnership with Renault India is in harmony with BLS's vision to work as a catalyst for rural economic growth, reinforcing Renault's dedication to the Indian market. BLS E-Services will actively promote awareness and empower rural consumers to access a variety of goods and services transparently through its platforms.

ABOUT RENAULT

Renault, a historic mobility brand and pioneer of electric vehicles in Europe, has always developed innovative vehicles. With the ‘Renaulution’ strategic plan, Renault has embarked on an ambitious, value-generating transformation moving towards a more competitive, balanced and electrified range. Its ambition is to embody modernity and innovation in technology, energy and mobility services in the automotive industry and beyond.

Renault India Pvt. Ltd. is a fully owned subsidiary of Renault S.A.S. France. Renault India cars are manufactured in the manufacturing facility located in Oragadam, Chennai, with a capacity of 480,000 units per annum. Renault India also has a widespread presence of close to 430+ sales and 490+ service touchpoints, which include 250+ Workshop on Wheels locations across the country, with benchmark sales and service quality.

Rotary Bangalore Midtown And Sukruthi Trust Unite For NEMMADI A Centre For Palliative Care

Rotary Bangalore Midtown and Sukruthi Trust came together to formally sign the MOU, symbolizing the commencement of the NEMMADI project a palliative care center at Dasanapura, near Nelamangala. The ceremony was marked by a sense of unity and shared purpose, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defines the Rotary movement.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by Rtn Abdul Sait, President and PP Rtn M G Pramod, Hon. Secretary and President Elect Rtn Palani Loganathan of Rotary Bangalore Midtown and Rtn B S Nagarajan representing Sukruthi Trust in the august presence of District Governor Rtn Udaykumar Bhaskara, who graced the occasion during his official visit to Rotary Bangalore Midtown for the year 2023-24.

The NEMMADI project, a testament to both organizations' commitment to serving the community, represents a significant step forward in addressing the crucial need for palliative care in the region. 

The collaboration seeks to provide compassionate care and support to individuals and their families facing life-limiting illnesses, focusing on enhancing their quality of life during challenging times.

It is a multi-disciplinary approach that improves the quality of life of patients (adults and children) and their families who are facing problems associated with life-threatening illness The proposed Palliative Care Centre will be in a 22000 sq ft building on 1 acre plot and will have the following:

An inpatient 54 beds (Adults – 48, Children – 5, Isolation – 1)  Fully Charitable model – Free treatment, medicines and food for everyone.

Accommodation for nursing staff (female only), male & female attendants

Multi-religion Prayer / Meditation room

Kitchen, dining hall for staff & attendants 

Procedure room, Counseling rooms, OPD Consulting room Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Grieving room / Morgue The Construction began on 10th December 2023 and is expected to complete by June 2025. 

The signing ceremony began with Rtn B S Nagarajan briefing the gathering about the project. He thanked Rotary Bangalore Midtown for coming forward in supporting this project. The President of Rotary Bangalore Midtown highlighted the shared vision of Rotary Bangalore Midtown and Sukruthi Trust in creating a positive impact on the lives of those in need and stressed the importance of community partnerships in achieving this goal.

District Governor Rtn Udaykumar Bhaskara, commended the collaboration between Rotary Bangalore Midtown and Sukruthi Trust, recognizing the potential for NEMMADI to become a beacon of hope for individuals and families dealing with serious illnesses. He applauded both Rotary Bangalore Midtown and Rtn B S Nagarajan for their dedication to the Rotary motto of "Service above Self”.

The NEMMADI project envisions a comprehensive palliative care center that integrates medical expertise, counselling services, and community outreach to provide holistic support to patients and their families. It aligns with Rotary International's commitment to addressing critical health issues and contributing to the overall well-being of communities.The signing of the MOU for the NEMMADI project marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts of Rotary Bangalore Midtown and Sukruthi Trust to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need, bringing hope and comfort to individuals facing challenging health circumstances.

Samsung Expands Galaxy Ecosystem Experience In India; Announces Pre-book For Galaxy Book4 Series

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today opened pre-booking for Galaxy Book4 series, the most intelligent PC lineup with Galaxy Book4 Pro 360, Galaxy Book4 Pro and Galaxy Book4 360.

Galaxy Book4 series comes with a new intelligent processor, a more vivid and interactive display and a robust security system — beginning a new era of AI PCs that offer ultimate productivity, mobility and connectivity. These enhancements not only improve the device but also elevate the entire Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, advancing the PC category and accelerating Samsung’s vision of AI innovation — for today and tomorrow.

Bringing next level connectivity, mobility and productivity, the Galaxy Book4 series redefines how users interact with their PCs, smartphones, tablets, and other devices, delivering truly connected and intelligent experiences. It is completely interactive with optimized and familiar touch-based user interface, just like the experience on your smartphone or tablet.

Featuring an intelligent processor for powerful performance, the Galaxy Book4 series has a new Intel® Core™ Ultra 7/Ultra5 processor that combines a faster central processing unit (CPU), a higher-performance graphics processing unit (GPU) and a newly added neural processing unit (NPU).

Talking AI capabilities to the next level, the Galaxy Book4 series features Intel’s industry-first AI PC Acceleration program to boost productivity.

The Galaxy Book4 series offers a stunning and interactive display with its Dynamic AMOLED 2X display assuring clear contrast and vivid colour, whether indoors or outdoors. Its Vision Booster uses an Intelligent Outdoor Algorithm to automatically enhance visibility and colour reproduction in bright conditions, while anti-reflective technology reduces distracting reflections.

The sound quality is equally top-notch with AKG Quad speakers with Dolby Atmos® delivering high octaves and rich bass for clear and crisp sound. All the exceptional features are packaged in this next generation of intelligent PC, which also has a robust security system.

A testament to Samsung’s vision of AI-powered innovation, the Galaxy Book4 series is designed to empower people with higher levels of productivity while exploring new possibilities to enhance their quality of life. 

Start Of Applications For Intercultural Innovation Hub 2024. Connecting, Empowering, And Elevating Grassroots Organizations

The Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH) of UNAOC and the BMW Group, with the support of Accenture, connects people and cultures, empowers grassroots organizations and elevates intercultural innovation.

Innovative projects championing diversity, integration and social inclusion will be selected to scale up their impact and achieve sustainable growth.

Participants of the Hub will benefit from a financial grant of up to USD 20,000 in addition to a comprehensive capacity-building programme, international workshops, customized support and mentorship, as well as membership to an exclusive global platform.

Deadline: 25 March 2024 at https://www.interculturalinnovation.org/

Munich/New York. Every day, at the forefront of addressing intercultural challenges through social innovations, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group, with the support of Accenture, are pleased to announce the 2024 cycle of the Intercultural Innovation Hub.

Through the Intercultural Innovation Hub (IIH), we continue to connect people and cultures, empower grassroots organizations, as well as elevate and scale up innovative approaches that contribute to inclusive societies.

To this end, we invite grassroots organizations that promote intercultural dialogue and understanding as well as social inclusion to apply. Selected organizations will benefit from a comprehensive support programme designed to expand the impact of their projects.

The Intercultural Innovation Hub will select up to 10 projects focused on addressing xenophobia and hate speech, preventing violent extremism; promoting gender equality; using sport, art and culture as tools to drive social change and foster social inclusion; and building inclusive and cohesive societies.

Selected recipients will receive:

Financial support for sustainable growth: Each finalist will receive up to USD 20,000 to scale up the sustainability of their project and accelerate the impact of their work.

Year-long capacity-building programme: Selected recipients also will benefit from a year-long series of capacity-building workshops, focused support, and customized mentoring provided by UNAOC and the BMW Group, with the support of Accenture.

Access and membership to a global leadership platform: Recipients will have an opportunity to extend their spheres of influence, collaborate with other changemakers, and take part in regional and international events by becoming part of a global leadership network.

To apply, please read the eligibility criteria and complete your application no later than 5 p.m. (EDT) on 25 March 2024 at http://www.interculturalinnovation.org/application-process

Canon Celebrates 21st Consecutive Year Of No.1 Share Of Global Interchangeable-Lens Digital Camera Market

Canon Inc. announced today that the company’s interchangeable-lens digital cameras (digital SLR and mirrorless cameras) have maintained the No. 1 share[1] of the global market for 21 consecutive years from 2003 to 2023.

Canon’s EOS series of interchangeable lens digital cameras are imaging systems based on the basic concept of "Speed, Comfort, and High Image Quality," for which the company has developed proprietary key components, including CMOS image sensors, the DIGIC image processors, and interchangeable lenses. Putting together a wide-ranging product lineup—from high-performance flagship models that are highly trusted by professionals to entry-level models that allow users to enjoy full-scale shooting with easy operation, as well as a rich selection of over 115[2] RF and EF series lenses that make possible a wealth of creative expression—Canon continues to support the diverse needs of customers.

During the dawn of digital SLR cameras, Canon introduced its breakthrough EOS Kiss Digital (EOS Digital Rebel or EOS 300D in other regions) in September 2003. By launching this groundbreaking camera, which was competitively priced and featured a compact, lightweight design, Canon spurred growth in the digital SLR market, capturing the top share of the global market and heralding the age of digital SLR cameras. Since that time, Canon has continued to launch a range of groundbreaking products, including the professional-model EOS-1D series and the EOS 5D series, which paved the way for digital SLR video recording. Canon’s desire to further expand the boundaries of visual expression led to its next-generation EOS R System, launched in October 2018, that includes the full-frame mirrorless camera EOS R5—the first camera to feature 8K video recording[3]—released in July 2020 and the EOS R3 in November 2021, which features tracking of fast-moving subjects and continuous shooting performance. In addition, Canon launched the EOS VR System, designed to record video for virtual reality content, in December 2021.

In 2023, Canon led demand for mirrorless cameras and lenses by further expanding its lineup of EOS R series cameras and lenses. This expanded lineup included the EOS R50 (released in March 2023), an APS-C size mirrorless camera complete with easy-to-use and convenient functions, the EOS R8 (released in April 2023), a full-frame camera that is both small and lightweight while demonstrating high performance and the EOS R100 (released in June 2023), an APS-C size mirrorless camera that even beginner photographers can use to enjoy full-fledged shooting, and 9 RF lenses[4].

Additionally, Canon-brand cameras comprised the number one share[5] of Rugby World Cup France 2023, demonstrating that they have earned the deep trust of professional photographers. Based on the support of this wide range of customers, Canon managed to secure the No. 1 share of the global market for the 21st consecutive year.

Canon will continue to refine its proprietary imaging technologies while bringing fulfillment and excitement to people’s daily lives as well as promoting the spread of photo and video culture by providing products, services, and solutions that meet its customers’ diverse needs.

About Canon Inc. 

Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leader in the fields of professional and consumer imaging equipment, industrial equipment, and information systems. Canon’s extensive range of products includes production printers, multifunction office systems, inkjet and laser printers, cameras, video and cinematography equipment, network cameras, medical systems and semiconductor-manufacturing equipment. Originally established in 1937 as Precision Optical Industry, Co., Ltd., a camera manufacturer, Canon has successfully diversified and globalized to become a worldwide industry leader in professional and consumer imaging systems and solutions. With approximately 180,775 employees worldwide, the Canon Group includes manufacturing and marketing subsidiaries in Japan, the Americas, Europe, Asia and Oceania; and a global R&D network with companies based in the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia. Canon’s consolidated net sales for fiscal 2022 (ended December 31, 2022) totaled $30.31 billion (at an exchange rate of ¥133=U.S. $1). Visit the Canon Inc. website at: global.canon 

About Canon India  

Canon India Pvt. Ltd. Is the sales and marketing subsidiary of Canon Inc., a world leader in imaging technologies. Having started its operations in 1997, Canon India markets a comprehensive range of sophisticated contemporary digital imaging products and solutions in India. The company today has offices in 10 cities across India with merchandise warehousing facilities at 4 location and employs over 1000 staff and over 850 channel partners. Canon India enjoys a vast retail presence across the country through Canon Image Square (CIS) stores, PIXMA Zones, and BIS Lounges. Canon India’s service reach extends to over 632 towns covering 19,118 PIN codes across India – which comprises of 349 Camera collection points, 15 Camera repair centers, 316 Printer repair centers, 184 Copier, Scanner and 129 Large Format Printer Sales & Service dealers. (Data as of February 2023) 

In sync with its corporate tagline- ‘Delighting You Always’, reinforced by World-class technology, Canon offers an extended product portfolio, including Digital Production Printers, Large Format Printers, Commercial Printers, Multi-Functional Devices, Managed Document Services, Inkjet & Laser Printers, Document and Cheque Scanners, Digital Cameras, DSLRs, Mirrorless cameras, Cinematic Imaging Products, Surveillance cameras and Medical Imaging products catering to the multiple market segments of consumer, SME, B2B, Commercial, Government & PSUs. 

Dalmia Cement Elevates Its Commitment As Roof Column Foundation Expert; Onboards Superstar Ranveer Singh As Brand Ambassador!

* To extend its legacy of technical excellence to home builders -through its technical support team

Taking the onus of guiding and assisting customers with right usage of cement in the most critical part of the house ie. Roof Column Foundation, Dalmia Cement is making a tectonic shift in its brand focus with its new campaign “RCF Strong toh Ghar Strong”. The new customer-centric messaging is aimed at creating awareness amongst the home builders and contractors in choosing the right cement, using it in the right way and following best construction practices to build their dream homes.

The campaign that would consolidate Dalmia Cement as the ‘RCF Expert’ will feature Superstar Ranveer Singh. It will be launched through a comprehensive multimedia approach with Superstar Ranveer adding much efficacy to the brand's message of predominant technical knowledge, and peerless service, as amplified by the slogan, "RCF Strong toh Ghar Strong”.

Commenting on the initiative, Shri Puneet Dalmia, MD & CEO, Dalmia Bharat Limited, said, “During our illustrious journey over the last eight decades, Dalmia Cement has stood shoulder to shoulder to build our nation from its roots, contributing to create iconic national landmarks as well as happy homes for millions. As individuals, we cherish our homes which hold a profound value and place in our lives. Thus, constructing such a generational asset with the proper application of cement and technical expertise not only ensures structural integrity, but also represents an investment for life.”

“Our new brand campaign manifests not just an eminent legacy, but also a commitment to consumer centricity – it conveys a core message that building a home with due care means building it for generations to come,” he said.

Commenting on his collaboration Superstar Ranveer Singh shared, "I have always admired Dalmia Cement for contributing to the construction sector for over 80 years. I am happy to partner with the company & advocate for the vital importance of Roof Column and Foundation in home construction. Together, we aim to educate individuals to make informed choices, ensuring that every structure stands the test of time."

Mr. Sameer Nagpal, COO, Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Ltd. shared, “We believe that the brand must play a vital role in consumer’s lives so that they can make informed choices. Dalmia Cement has over the years developed proprietary know-how of optimising cement recipe that makes it most suitable for Roof Column and Foundation. These are the most critical elements in the structure of the house and are responsible for its strength and longevity. In addition to providing the right cement for RCF, we also have a strong on-the-ground technical workforce which assists home builders and contractors in using the cement in the right way. The RCF campaign brings to fore this value proposition”.

About Dalmia Bharat:

Founded in 1939, Dalmia Bharat Limited (DBL) (BSE/NSE Symbol: DALBHARAT) is one of India’s pioneering cement companies headquartered in New Delhi. With a growing capacity, currently pegged at 44.6 MnT, Dalmia Bharat Limited (including its subsidiaries) is the fourth-largest cement manufacturing company in India by installed capacity. The manufacturing presence of the company is spread across 10 states and 15 manufacturing units. Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited, a subsidiary of Dalmia Bharat Limited, prides itself at having one of the lowest carbon footprint in the cement world globally. It is the first cement company to commit to RE100, EP100 & EV100 (first triple joiner) – showing real business leadership in the clean energy transition by taking a joined-up approach. Visit us at https://www.dalmiacement.com/.

Kotak Announces Organisational Developments At The Leadership Level On February 19, 2024

Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. (“KMBL” / “Bank”) today announced the following appointments at leadership levels, giving impetus to its vision for ‘Accelerating Change’ in becoming a customer-centric tech-enabled financial institution.

Ashok Vaswani, MD & CEO, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, “I am delighted to share key leadership announcements that will shape the future of our group. These leadership changes demonstrate the value of stewardship and the depth of talent we have at Kotak.”

KVS Manian has been appointed as Joint Managing Director with effect from March 1, 2024. He will spearhead the growth of Wholesale Bank, Commercial Bank, Private Banking, Asset Reconstruction Division and Wholesale Credit. He will also continue to have oversight over the Institutional Equities and Investment Banking businesses of the Group.

Shanti Ekambaram has been appointed as Deputy Managing Director with effect from March 1, 2024. She will continue to drive the growth of 811, Treasury and Global Markets businesses in addition to overseeing the functions of Human Resources, Group Marketing & Corporate Communications, Internal Vigilance, Internal Audit (administrative matters), Public Affairs, Corporate Social Responsibility and ESG. She will also continue to have oversight over Kotak Mahindra Financial Services Limited and Kotak Karma subsidiaries.

Both Manian and Shanti have demonstrated a tremendous track record of building successful and purposeful businesses over their long association with the Group.

Devang Gheewalla will succeed Jaimin Bhatt as the Group Chief Financial Officer with effect from April 1, 2024. Jaimin Bhatt, Kotak Group’s current Group Chief Financial Officer superannuates on March 31, 2024.

Milind Nagnur has been elevated as Chief Operating Officer of the Bank with effect from April 1, 2024. He will continue to be the Bank’s Chief Technology Officer and will take additional responsibility for Bank Operations, Group Technology Architecture and Cyber Security functions. In his new role, he will be responsible for building the critical enablers that will fuel our aspirations for scale.

Paul Parambi has been elevated as Group Chief Risk Officer with effect from, March 1, 2024, thereby extending his role from the Bank to all Group companies. In his new role, Paul will be extending his expertise in assessing risk to our Group companies.

KVS Manian, Whole-Time Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, “We are embarking on an exciting journey of growth and innovation, and I am honoured to step into this new role as Joint Managing Director. I am committed to working closely with my esteemed colleagues to drive our group forward, delivering value to our customers and stakeholders while upholding our core values of ethics and integrity”.

Shanti Ekambaram, Whole-Time Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, “I thank the Board and the leadership team at Kotak for entrusting me with the role of Deputy Managing Director. As we embark on the next phase of scaling up Kotak, I look forward to contributing to the continued success and growth of our group. I am committed to collaborate closely with the team to drive strategic initiatives, foster innovation and uphold our commitment to excellence.”

About Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited

Established in 1985, Kotak Mahindra Group is one of India's leading financial services conglomerates. In February 2003, Kotak Mahindra Finance Ltd. (KMFL), the Group's flagship company, received banking licence from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), becoming the first non-banking finance company in India to convert into a bank - Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited

The Bank has four Strategic Business Units – Consumer Banking, Corporate Banking, Commercial Banking, and Treasury, which cater to retail and corporate customers across urban and rural India. The premise of Kotak Mahindra Group’s business model is concentrated India, diversified financial services. The bold vision that underscores the Group’s growth is an inclusive one, with a host of products and services designed to address the needs of the unbanked and insufficiently banked. As on December 31, 2023, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has a national footprint of 1,869 branches and 3,239ATMs, in addition to a branch in GIFT City and in DIFC (Dubai).

For more information, visit the company’s website at https://www.kotak.com/