Rapido Partners With BBMP And Election Commission of India To rOffers Free Rides In Bengaluru During General Elections 2024

*     In a proactive stride towards civic engagement, Rapido deploys all its resources by joining hands with the Election Commission of India (ECI) to offer free bike taxi, auto, and cab rides to voters in Bengaluru

*       Rapido’s free auto and cab services are extended exclusively to the differently abled and senior citizen voters of Bengaluru in association with Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP)

*      Use code "VOTENOW" to avail free rides by Rapido during General Elections 2024

In a resolute commitment to fortify the nation's democratic fabric, Rapido, India's foremost commute app, assumes a pivotal role in national duty with the launch of the "SawaariZimmedariKi" initiative. In collaboration with the Election Commission of India (ECI) and Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), Rapido sets forth to champion civic engagement during the Indian General Elections 2024 by extending free auto and cab rides to differently abled and senior citizen voters in Bengaluru. As part of this historic endeavor, Rapido pledges to provide free rides to voters in Bengaluru on 26th April, 2024.

On election day, voters can avail free rides on the Rapido app using the code ‘VOTENOW’ and exercise their democratic right. The initiative aims to facilitate residents' voting rights and ensure a more inclusive electoral process. This concerted effort aligns with Rapido's nationwide campaign, deploying over 10 lakh captains across more than 100 cities to provide free rides on election-day. With the support of the ECI, Rapido will be offering free bike taxi rides to voters in Karnataka across the cities of Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Mangaluru on election day.

Rapido's partnership with the ECI reflects its commitment to being a brand that drives positive change for a better society. Rapido’s Co-founder Pavan Guntupalli said, "We are undertaking this initiative to ensure that every voter in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Mangaluru can successfully fulfill their civic duty by casting their votes in the Indian General Election 2024. We have deployed all available resources to us in order to ensure that voters in Bengaluru can participate in the electoral process. We want to specifically ensure that differently abled, and senior citizen voters have equitable access to exercise their democratic right. By extending free auto and cab rides to them, we are redoubling our commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility.”

He further added, “By offering these free rides, we are facilitating democracy in action. Our Rapido captains in Bengaluru are more than just drivers; they are ambassadors of civic engagement, enabling greater voter turnout and promoting a more representative electoral system in the world's largest democracy."

Rapido's partnership with the Election Commission of India underscores its commitment to being a brand that drives change for a better society. Through initiatives like this, Rapido continues to demonstrate its dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of people across the country. This initiative emphasizes Rapido's dedication to empower and encourage the voter population of Karnataka to exercise their democratic right by casting their vote.

Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence, Telangana Hosts Cybersecurity And Privacy Conference

- The DSCI’s Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence (CCoE), Telangana hosts a Cybersecurity and Privacy Conference at Hyderabad. This pioneering effort by Dr Sriram Birudavolu, CEO of the Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence Telangana was aimed at sensitising the government departments to the vulnerabilities of cyber-attacks and developing a strategy to counter the same.

The conference was attended by distinguished guests from various departments of the Government of Telangana, including Dr Jayesh Ranjan, Special Chief Secretary, ITE&C Department and Department of Industries & Commerce, who was the Chief Guest of the event. Ms Rama Devi Lanka, Director, Emerging Technologies was the Guest of Honour, and Mr Venu Prasad, Jt. Director (Infra & Communications) was a special guest at the conference.  Industry stalwarts such as Mr Vinayak Godse, CEO – DSCI, and Mr Srikanth Srinivasan, Vice President of NASSCOM were also present at the conference and enriched the gathering with their valuable insights. Over 200 government representatives from 30+ departments attended the event.

The event featured specialized sessions covering a wide range of topics, including Cybersecurity Best Practices, Data Privacy and DSCI Privacy Seal, Risk Management, Incident Response, and more. Led by industry experts, these sessions provided invaluable insights into tackling modern cybersecurity challenges. The DSCI Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence team also conducted a VPAT evaluation of the government website and presented the outcomes. They also shared insights on what the various departments should consider and the role CCoE can play in helping them implement those solutions. The conference witnessed a dynamic exchange of ideas, fostering collaborations between government entities and industry stakeholders to strengthen the cybersecurity ecosystem.

Mr. Jayesh Ranjan appreciated the team at CCoE for conducting the VPAT exercise for the government website. He encouraged the departments to identify common areas for collaboration to utilize the transformative potential of Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence, Telangana and devise strategies to safeguard the critical infrastructure and sensitive data assets in this digital era.

According to Dr Sriram Birudavolu, CEO of the Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence Telangana, “The CCoE has been set up with an aim to provide secure and resilient cyberspace to fulfil the needs of the digital economy and society by creating a cluster of cybersecurity organisations in the state. This conference was organized to highlight the vulnerabilities and give a holistic view of cybersecurity best practices and affordable indigenous solutions to the government departments. the conference emerged as a cornerstone event, highlighting proactive efforts to fortify the cybersecurity landscape across government entities. The CCoE conducted a vulnerability assessment and penetration testing exercise on a government website.

Seven startups and partners of CCoE were recognized for their exemplary performance in conducting penetration testing exercises on government department websites, underscoring their commitment to advancing cybersecurity standards. Leading industry players actively participated in the event, showcasing their latest product and service offerings tailored to meet the cybersecurity needs of government departments. Stalls set up by companies such as TCP Wave, Qualys, Seqrite, Cotelligent, and others provided attendees with insights into cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions.

MIT Manipal Hosts FINENT-2024: A Confluence of Fintech And Entrepreneurship Shaping Tomorrow's Innovators

MIT Manipal proudly hosted FINENT-2024, a conclave that brought together thought leaders from the fintech and entrepreneurship sectors on April 18, 2024. This event highlighted the transformative impact of financial technologies and fostered discussions on the future of innovative business practices.

The event opened with a rousing message from Dr. Milind Agarwal, CEO & Founder of Quickwork, who set an empowering tone for the conclave. "Fintech is more than technology; it's a visionary approach to democratizing financial services and empowering a new generation to tackle global challenges innovatively," he stated, emphasizing the critical role of financial technologies in shaping future societal contributions.

Dr. Yogesh Pai, Head of the Department of Humanities and Management extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests and highlighted MIT Manipal’s dedication to nurturing a bridge between academic insight and industry innovation. The inauguration saw notable contributions from MIT alumnus Dr. Milind Agrawal, along with insightful addresses by Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, Director of MIT Manipal, and Dr. Giridhar Kini, Registrar of MAHE. Their discussions revolved around the pivotal role of academia-industry collaborations in spurring technological and entrepreneurial innovation.

Speakers such as Mr. Venu Madhav, Senior Vice President of Fidelity Information Services, and Ms. Sabrina Khatri of MSCI, Mumbai, shared their perspectives on the dynamic fintech environment and the essential competencies required to thrive within it. Mr. Madhav spoke on the necessity of adaptability in the rapidly evolving fintech sector, while Ms. Khatri focused on the importance of interdisciplinary skills and a customer-centric approach.

The event's morning sessions concluded with a compelling keynote from Mr. Prakash Ganeshan, Co-founder of LCode Technologies, who discussed the catalytic role of fintech entrepreneurship in driving social change.

The afternoon featured Mr. Nithin Seth, CEO and Co-founder of Incedo Inc., USA, who presented on 'Mastering the Data Paradox,' underscoring the strategic importance of data, digital transformation, and AI. This was followed by a vibrant panel discussion about Manipal’s evolution as an entrepreneurial hub, led by Dr. M H Bala Subrahmanya and featuring industry stalwarts.

The conclave wrapped up with a valedictory session where Lt. Gen. (Dr) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, and Mr. Nithin Seth delivered stirring addresses. Lt. Gen. Venkatesh emphasized the importance of the conclave, stating, "This gathering is a testament to our dedication to cultivating an environment where innovative ideas are not only conceived but effectively implemented. Our goal is to prepare our students not just to participate in the future but to actively shape it." Mr. Seth, focusing on the broader implications for India, encouraged the participants with these words: "India's current entrepreneurial landscape is burgeoning with possibilities that beckon to be seized. It is essential that we harness these opportunities, not only to drive individual success but also to significantly advance our nation's economic and technological frontiers."

The event was expertly organized by Dr. Raveendra Rao and Dr. Sumukh S Hungund, with valuable support from co-convenors Dr. Rajesh R Pai and Prof. Lidwin Kenneth Micheal.

Medtronic Launches Advanced NeuroSmartTM Portable MER Navigation System In India To Manage Parkinson’s

* Neurology team at Fortis Hospital Bengaluru becomes the first to use this technology for DBS therapy in Parkinson’s patients.

India Medtronic Private Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT), today announced the launch of India’s first NeuroSmartTM Portable Micro Electrode Recording (MER) Navigation system for Parkinson’s treatment.  Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a treatment for symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty walking. DBS is a therapy in which a small pacemaker-like device sends electrical signals through very thin wires, known as ‘leads’, to a targeted area in the brain related to the symptoms. Advanced DBS implants are designed to capture brain signals using the implanted DBS system. The NeuroSmartTM Portable MER Navigation system revolutionizes DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation) therapy by enhancing precision during surgery. 

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that eventually causes severe disability due to the increasing severity of both treatment-resistant motor problems and non-motor symptoms. In 2016, it was estimated that 6.1 million people worldwide had Parkinson’s disease. The prevalence in India was estimated to be 10% of the global burden, that is, 5.8 lakhs.1

Medtronic has been at the forefront of DBS therapy since 1987, with over 185,000 DBS devices implanted worldwide. The NeuroSmartTM Portable MER Navigation system, developed by Alpha Omega Engineering, is a groundbreaking treatment for neurological and psychiatric diseases. Featuring advanced neurophysiological navigation mapping, it enables accurate electrode placement while recording neural activity. Its advanced capabilities for enhanced target localization, based on HaGuide automatic navigation, help identify the most effective target for the patient, ensuring optimum symptom relief. 

The Neurology team at Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru, comprising of Dr. Raghuram G, Additional Director Neurosurgery and Dr. Guruprasad Hosurkar, Additional Director Neurology, became the first to use this technology for Parkinson’s patients. The case in point was a 68-year-old patient who had been suffering from Parkinson’s for over a decade. The condition led to restrictions in movement, causing challenges in performing daily chores. It also became challenging for the patient’s family to take care of him. While initially medications provided relief, over time these became ineffective, calling for alternative management options. With the implications of new advancement in NeuroSmartTM, doctors were able to identify the right target that was stimulated to manage this patients’ uncontrolled symptoms with minimal side effects.

Dr. Raghuram G, said, “This technology is a game-changer. AI and real-time feedback mean that the new MER Navigation system has revolutionized our approach to targeting brain structures during DBS procedures. This advancement significantly elevates our precision, enabling us to tailor treatments with unprecedented accuracy. Ultimately, this precision optimization translated directly into improved patient outcomes, offering newfound hope and efficacy in our efforts to manage Parkinson's disease and other neurological conditions.”

Dr. Guruprasad Hosurkar, said, “DBS therapy is a transformative intervention, enabling enhanced motor function and granting patients newfound independence. Through the precision of the new and advanced AI enabled MER Navigation system, electrode placement is meticulously optimized, offering profound relief from debilitating symptoms such as tremors and stiffness.”

“Aimed at enhancing patient and clinician experiences, Medtronic's legacy of innovation in DBS spans over two decades. Our advanced DBS systems foster confidence in the operating room by empowering healthcare professionals with precise data for procedural planning and verification. The NeuroSmartTM MER Navigation system integrates seamlessly, providing real-time feedback to ensure accuracy and reliability throughout the DBS procedure,” said Prateek Tiwari, Senior Director, Neuroscience & Specialty Therapies, Medtronic India

About Medtronic

Bold thinking. Bolder actions. We are Medtronic. Medtronic plc, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission — to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life — unites a global team of 95,000+ passionate people across more than 150 countries. Our technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people first, and better outcomes for our world. In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary. For more information on Medtronic (NYSE:MDT), visit www.Medtronic.com and follow @Medtronic on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

Explore The Fossil Spring 2024 Collection For Fresh Fashion Upgrades With Kriti Sanon And Varun Dhawan

~Dive into Elegance and reinvent your style with exceptional Timepieces and Accessories~

Get ready to step into the spring season with the Fossil Spring 2024 collection, inspired by the effortless elegance of Kriti Sanon and Varun Dhawan. With a range of classic timepieces, timeless accessories, and leather goods, each piece is designed to elevate your look and ignite your springtime spirit. Whether you're exploring the blooming outdoors or enjoying cozy indoor moments, these captivating accessories are your perfect companions on every journey, effortlessly infusing sophistication and craftsmanship into your ensemble.

FOR HER

Sharing her thoughts on the Fossil Spring 2024 Collection, Kriti Sanon, brand ambassador for Fossil India, stated, “The latest collection from Fossil is truly a dream for every woman." She further expresses, "With accessories ranging from style-forward to timelessly classic, there's something to suit every personal style. Each piece in the collection, be it the iconic timepieces, the innovative watch rings, or the wear-everywhere bags, exudes charm and confidence, making it the perfect companion for the modern woman.”

Timepieces

Introducing our versatile Carlie collection, perfect for any occasion, blending casual flair with a touch of elegance. Boasting a revamped '90s-inspired T-bar and a captivating bracelet design, this watchpiece showcases a sleek 28MM stainless steel case complemented by a silver sunray dial adorned with luminous hands, Roman numeral, and stick indices. Priced at INR 11,995, it's the epitome of affordable luxury and features in gold, rose-gold and silver tones.

Telling time has never been more stylish—or more giftable, introducing the Raquel Watch Ring. These statement-making trendsetters are coveted for their compact size and unique design, making them an instant favorite. Available in rose gold, silver, and gold tones, the Raquel Watch Ring features a rectangular shape, metallic sunray watch face and a flexible band to fit any finger, each adding a touch of glamor to your daily OOTDs. We assure you that these delightful treasures of timeless joy are sure to leave a lasting smile on your face

Accessories

Our Jessie Bucket Bag is every woman's delight, combining space, versatility, and luxury in one elegant package. Crafted from quality rich brown & black leather that softens with time, this modern take on the iconic silhouette exudes sophistication. Enhanced with Fossil's signature Knurling and an engravable Legacy Charm, it comes in two versatile sizes. Priced at INR 19,995, it represents a timeless investment in both style and quality.

Our woven neutral Jessie Bucket Bag , priced at INR 21,995, is an ideal choice for those inclined towards understated luxury. Featuring a central zipper compartment and a detachable shoulder strap, it seamlessly blends practicality with refined elegance, catering perfectly to the needs of the modern woman on the go.

This Jessie Bucket Bag is our reinterpretation of the iconic silhouette, crafted in captivating woven neutrals and adorned with distinctive Fossil design elements including our Signature Knurling and customizable Legacy Charm.

FOR HIM

"When it comes to choosing accessories like watches, I prioritize designs that seamlessly blend functionality and versatility with effortless style, which is why Fossil stands out as the perfect brand for me and every modern man," shares Varun Dhawan, Fossil India brand ambassador. "As someone who enjoys reinventing his personal style and experimenting with new looks, I find the distinctive, well-crafted watches of the Fossil Spring 2024 Collection to be the perfect companions for all occasions."

Timepieces

Rev up your style and make a bold statement with Fossil Sport Tourer watches, where functionality meets the adrenaline rush of racing. These refined timepieces are more than just accessories, they're an ode to the spirit of automotive culture. With a Japanese center second chronograph movement, high-performance tachymeter bezel, and lume hour markers, each watch in this collection is engineered for the road ahead. Can't decide? Take a cue from Varun's favorites—the rugged brown leather strapped timepiece with an off-white sunray dial, or the sleek silver stainless steel watch boasting a bold black sunray dial. Join the race and let your wrist be the ultimate statement of speed and style

So, what accessories and classic timepieces are you bringing home this Spring season?

Available at select online and offline stores

ABOUT FOSSIL

Fossil is a leading global lifestyle accessories brand inspired by creativity and ingenuity, dedicated to connecting people to what matters most: time. Fossil takes pride in creating timeless and exceptionally crafted watches, leather goods and jewelry—designed to accompany you on every journey life presents. As a trailblazer in the industry, Fossil brings innovation and style to its accessories, while also working diligently to Make Time For Good™, a platform created to enact positive change for the brand’s people and communities.

Bank of Baroda Teams Up With Kunaal Roy Kapur For PehchaanCon 3.0 Campaign To Spread Awareness On New-Age Financial Frauds

* Releases two new ad films to inform and educate people on emerging threats in the digital age and how one can protect themselves

Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, today announced the release of its #PehchaanCon 3.0 Banking Fraud Awareness campaign. Building upon the success of the earlier two editions, the latest campaign seeks to raise awareness about new-age financial frauds such as Artificial Intelligence-generated Deepfake scams that can succeed in duping even the most vigilant customers.

In Phase 3 of the #PehchaanCon campaign, the Bank has released two new ad films featuring actor Kunaal Roy Kapur. Combining the use of humour with informative content, these videos illustrate how anyone – even the smartest and strongest amongst us – can end up getting conned. Using the latest deepfake tech to deceive individuals by masquerading as a family member/a close acquaintance or targeting online shoppers by posing as a delivery agent asking for an OTP, which is then used to hack into one’s personal data, fraudsters are using a range of methods to try and dupe people.

The ads showcase how anyone is vulnerable to falling prey to such an attack. Kunaal Roy Kapur plays the role of the quiet and compassionate doctor to whom his patients pour their hearts out to, while also contemplating how to protect themselves from such kinds of frauds in future. The ads emphasise that by being alert, watchful and being able to recognise a fraud/fraudster or Con, customers can protect themselves and their confidential financial information and enjoy a safe and secure online banking and shopping experience.

Shri Lal Singh, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “Online frauds aimed at defrauding people have become more common nowadays and are an ever-present threat. Further, with the advent of new technologies, the modus operandi of financial cons also keeps evolving rapidly. Hence, all of us need to be extremely alert and learn to identify a potential fraud/scam. Bank of Baroda's PehchaanCon campaign emphasises the importance of self-vigilance to customers so that they can ensure the safety of their hard-earned money from the threats presented by cybercriminals.”

In essence, the campaign aims to amplify the message: Stay informed and stay alert. Watch the videos here:  PehchaanCon Film #1 and PehchaanCon Film #2. 

A multi-channel campaign, the #PehchaanCon 3.0 campaign will play across television, radio, digital and outdoor platforms.

Indus Appstore Launches The Voice Search Feature In 10 Indian Languages

-          Users can now discover and engage with apps by using voice search in native languages

PhonePe’s Indus Appstore, India’s homegrown app marketplace, today announced the launch of its Voice Search feature available in 10 Indian languages in addition to English.

This innovative feature transforms the user experience, enabling users to discover apps through voice search in their preferred language. The Voice Search technology is powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, ensuring accuracy and precision in understanding diverse accents and speech patterns offering relevant search results.

Vernacular language speakers account for approximately 75% of India’s Internet user base underscoring the need to bridge the linguistic barriers that come with discovering and engaging with apps. Traditional text-based search in regional languages pose numerous challenges, including the need for specialized keyboards and complex character compositions. These hurdles hinder seamless communication.

Indus Appstore’s Voice Search technology elevates user experience by allowing users to freely express themselves in their local language with just a tap of the voice search button. This aligns with Indus Appstore’s mission to empower users with inclusive and accessible features, catering to varying levels of literacy and linguistic preferences. Additionally, this new feature is a positive development for app developers as it is proven to boost app installs.

Speaking on the launch, Akash Dongre, Co-founder and CPO, Indus Appstore said, “The new Voice Search feature is our effort towards creating an inclusive and accessible app store. With 82% of smartphone users engaging in voice-activated technology, integration of Indian languages has been the strongest growth driver for tech across the six-to-sixty age spectrum. The user-centric feature positions Indus Appstore at the forefront of transformative Voice Technology that is the need of the decade."

About Indus Appstore

Indus Appstore is a native Android-based mobile app store, designed to fulfill the localized and cultural needs of Indian consumers. With an extensive array of categories it seeks to provide users a localized, contextual and a personalized experience. Indus Appstore is available in English and 12 Indian languages, which allows users to explore the ap p store in their preferred language.

For developers, Indus Appstore provides a fair and level playing field to list, distribute & promote their products in the Indian app ecosystem. It provides a self-publishing platform, localization services, multiple tools to monitor and grow their apps along with a dedicated 24×7 customer support.

For more details: media@indusappstore.com