A Higher Power: The First-Ever All-Electric BMW i5 M60 xDrive Launched In India

* Responsive power (601 hp) coupled with sublime driving dynamics: 0-100 km/hr in just 3.8 seconds.

* Dual-motor all-wheel drive with integral active steering for exhilarating performance.

* Modern interpretation of BMW’s signature twin headlights and illuminated kidney grille.

* M Specific displays on the BMW Widescreen Curved display with the new BMW Operating System 8.5

* Exemplary efficiency with driving range of up to 516 kilometres (WLTP).

* #BMWi5 #BMW #BMWIndia #MPerformance

The first-ever BMW i5 was launched in India today and will be available as an exclusive BMW M Performance model, BMW i5 M60 xDrive.

This all-electric sporty executive sedan leads with elegant presence, innovative technology, and dynamic performance. As a performance model from BMW M GmbH, the all-electric BMW i5 M60 xDrive comes as standard with specific exterior features that also visually underline its outstanding sport potential.

The first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive is available at all BMW dealerships across India as a Completely Built-Up Unit (CBU) model from today onwards.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “With the first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive, you can expect nothing short of a completely electrifying experience. It brings together the legacy of eight generations of the sportiest executive sedan – the ‘5’, adrenaline laden performance of ‘M’ and the sustainability of ‘i’. As the sixth electric offering from BMW Group India, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive will further reinforce our leadership in the Indian luxury electric mobility segment. With uncompromised performance that defines exhilaration for the modern era, it is an experience engineered for unbridled excitement and unparalleled thrills.”

The first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive is available at an ex-showroom price of INR 1,19,50,000.

*Price prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Ex-showroom prices inclusive of GST (incl. compensation cess) as applicable but excludes Road Tax, Tax Collected at Source (TCS), GST on Tax collected at source, RTO statutory taxes/fees, other local tax cess levies and insurance. Price and options are subject to change without prior notice. For further information, please contact the local authorised BMW Dealer.

The first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive is available in Alpine White as non-metallic paintwork and in following metallic paintworks – M Brooklyn Grey, M Carbon Black, Cape York green, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Sophisto Grey, Oxide Grey, Mineral White. Following BMW Individual paintworks are also available as an option – Frozen Portimao Blue, Frozen Deep Grey, Frozen Pure Grey and Tansanite Blue. The standard interior trim is in Carbon Fibre and upholstery options include Alcantara / Veganza | Black. Veganza and Leather Merino upholstery are available as optional upgrades.

The car comes with standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometers. Repair Inclusive can extend warranty benefits from third year of operation to maximum fifth year without any mileage limitation. The high-voltage battery in BMW i5 M60 xDrive is covered by a warranty valid for eight years or up to 160,000 kilometers.

Thanks to BMW India Financial Services, customized and flexible financial solutions are designed as per individual requirements. Customers enjoy great value and complete peace of mind with BMW 360? Finance Plan. It includes attractive monthly instalments, assured buy-back option up to five years, flexible term-end opportunities, and options to upgrade to a new BMW among other benefits.

The first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive

The exterior of the first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive is designed to be as innovative as you. The Illuminated BMW kidney grille sets the scene with its unique radiance. Stylistically inspired by the so-called "Sharknose" and projecting far forward, the BMW kidney grille functions as the visual centre of the vehicle front. The range of functions of the standard Adaptive LED Headlights includes the cornering light and the Matrix High Beam including the glare-free High Beam Assist BMW Selective Beam. In addition, blue design elements below the LED units stage the light sources impressively. The LED headlights show the hallmark four-eye face in a modern and reduced form. Daytime driving lights and turn indicators are each generated by two nearly vertical LED elements arranged on the outside. Just like the headlights and the BMW kidney grille, the other areas of the front apron also feature precisely defined contours and tightly designed surfaces. The clear and reduced design language is also expressed in the side view of the BMW i5. Its dynamically elongated proportions, long bonnet and almost upright BMW kidney grille are clearly visible from this perspective. At the transition to the rear, the shoulder and roof lines flow harmoniously into the contours of the lights. The flat rear lights interpret the brand's hallmark L-shaped lights with modern appeal.

Individual design features give the BMW i5 M60 xDrive a striking look, which emphasise its dynamic performance. A front apron with black surfaces in its centre and large air intakes, a BMW kidney grille with contour line lighting, horizontal slats and M logo, side skirts and exterior mirror caps finished in high-gloss black, 20-inch M light alloy wheels and a rear apron with a pronounced diffuser insert signal the sporty character of the performance sedan.

Thanks to the standard M Sport Pro Package, the first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive features host of M specific design features, most notably the large air intakes at the front, strikingly flared side skirts in high-gloss black and a rear apron with diffuser insert and the M high-gloss Shadow Line. Further, the illuminated BMW kidney grille with black surround, the dynamic light carpet, high-gloss black exterior mirror caps and a black-painted M rear spoiler is also available. In addition, there are also the M Shadow Line lights for the front and rear and red-painted brake calipers.

BMW M Performance Accessories offer customers the ability to bring their personality to the vehicles. To enhance the sporty appearance and character of the car, customers have the option to choose from a wide range of individual accessories including wheel size upgrades or curated accessory packages.

Generous space, modern functionality, a high level of acoustic comfort as well as high-quality, precisely processed materials, fine workmanship and advanced digital services characterise the ambience in its interior. In the first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive, the emotional performance experience is supported by M specific displays on the BMW Curved Display. The bands of the main displays and associated design elements in the instrument cluster appear in a platinum silver finish. The typography and graphics are based on the display in the cockpit of high performance cars from BMW M GmbH.

The BMW Interaction Bar combines modern functionality and fascinating design. The strikingly backlit functional unit with crystalline surface structure extends below the trim strip across the entire width of the instrument panel far into the door panels and includes touch-sensitive control panels for controlling ventilation and air conditioning and for activating the hazard warning lights. My Modes provides for a customizable driving and interior experience. A large-surface Carbon Fibre interior trim strip for the instrument panel highlights the BMW Curved Display and the optional BMW Interaction Bar. As an alternative to the standard Carbon Fibre trim, Dark Silver Accent combined with fine-wood trim is also optionally available in dark oak high gloss or open pored. The new gear selector switch on the centre console control panel, also features a particularly modern and high-quality design.

The Panorama Skyroof connects almost the entire roof surface, extends without interruption from just behind the windscreen to almost the rear window and, with its dark glass surface, gives the vehicle a particularly elegant appearance. Sport seats, whose height and inclination can be adjusted electrically, are standard equipment. Comfort Seats can be made available optionally. Active Seat Ventilation is also available as standard. With 18 speakers and an amplifier output boosted to 655 watts, the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System guarantees an outstanding acoustic experience. Further, the optimized functionality of the M leather steering wheel is combined with a classic three-spoke design. Contrast stitching in BMW M GmbH colours and a red centre marker for the steering wheel of the Performance model emphasise the sporty character of this model. Exclusive seat surfaces in Veganza/Alcantara finish with unique perforation in the shoulder area and translucent accents in red and blue is also available. In addition, an anthracite-coloured roof lining adds to the sporty flair.

The first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive combines a particularly powerful electric drive with hallmark M performance characteristics. Two highly integrated drive units on the front and rear axles, in which the electric motor, power electronics and transmission are very compactly combined in a common housing, form an electric all-wheel drive system that enables the BMW i5 M60 xDrive to deliver fascinating dynamic performance. The car instantly accelerates from 0 to 100 km/hr in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 230 km/hr. It produces an output of 601 hp and a maximum torque of 795 Nm. The high-voltage battery combines compact dimensions with high energy density and it provides a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive has a range of up to 516 kilometres determined in the WLTP test cycle. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive comes with a complimentary BMW Wallbox charger with installation. It can be integrated at home to enable safe and convenient charging up to 11 kW. The 22 kW AC Charging Professional is also available as an option.

BMW Operating System 8.5 in the first-ever BMW i5 M60 xDrive offers a wider range of digital content for information and entertainment, faster update cycles for functions, improved information on charging points for electric vehicles and optimised access to many specific online services. The display and control system expanded to include the BMW Head-Up Display in conjunction with the BMW Live Cockpit Professional. The advanced display and operating system offers a redesigned entry screen and "QuickSelect” access with an improved menu structure oriented towards consumer electronics devices. The new entry screen permanently shows the map view of the navigation system or other displays that can be individually configured. The cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps now not only offers an Augmented View display on the Information Display behind the steering wheel, but also improved functions for even more precise and charging station optimised navigation.

The spread of Driver Assistance Systems is more extensive. They support the driver and also increase comfort and safety. Standard equipment includes functions like Cruise Control, Attentiveness Assistant, Parking Assistant Professional with remote parking via smartphone and Reversing Assistant. The optional Driving Assistant Professional, including Distance Control with Stop & Go function and Steering and Lane Control Assistant, provides the driver with maximum support on long journeys and in city traffic.

The Adaptive Suspension Professional with electronically controlled shock absorbers is offered as standard. Infinitely adjustable valves enable wheel-specific regulation of the damper forces, which is adaptive to the driving style, the road conditions and also the load condition. The advanced Integral Active Steering makes manoeuvring more comfortable, enhances agility at medium speeds and conveys confidence when changing lanes and cornering at higher speeds. Optionally, customers can choose the Adaptive M Suspension Professional with additional Active Roll Stabilisation that uses the new control logic to optimise sportiness and comfort. The damper forces are controlled using an M specific characteristic.

The newly designed Travel & Comfort System is also available to provide customised entertainment in the rear. BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

National Financial Awareness Day: How Home Credit India Is Promoting Financial Literacy

By: Ashish Tiwari, Chief Marketing Officer, Home Credit India

Financial literacy is the cornerstone of sound personal finance management, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about money matters. In a country like India, where economic empowerment is intertwined with social progress, the importance of financial literacy cannot be overstated. It not only enables individuals to manage their finances effectively but also plays a crucial role in fostering economic stability and growth at both individual and societal levels.

According to several reports, 27% of India's population is financially literate, which is lower than other developed economies like the US, Germany, Canada, and the United Kingdom.   Recognising this, Home Credit India integrated financial literacy as one of the primary pillars of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. As a responsible participant in the financial ecosystem, Home Credit India is committed to promoting a culture of responsible borrowing and financial awareness in the wider society.

Their annual financial literacy initiative, ‘Saksham’ epitomises this commitment. Under this initiative, Home Credit India has been imparting financial education to thousands of women across the country through physical workshops. The curriculum covers financial topics like budgeting, savings, creditworthiness, investment planning, among others. Last year, the initiative reached 30,000 young girls and women across the country, and this year, the initiative is underway with a goal of reaching a minimum of 20,000 women.

One of the participants of the initiative is Anita, a self-employed woman running a small cosmetic shop in New Ashok Nagar, Delhi. Through Saksham, she learned about digital literacy, enabling her to utilise digital modes of payment securely and protect herself from phone fraud. Now, she efficiently manages her payments using online digital platforms, enhancing her financial inclusion and security. Anita's story mirrors countless others who have found newfound confidence and security through Home Credit India's initiatives.

Additionally, Home Credit India has leveraged digital platforms to reach a wider audience. Through its 'Paise Ki Paathshala' microsite and social media campaigns, Home Credit India has engaged with over 3 million people. Interestingly, individuals aged 25-34 from Tier 1 cities constitute a significant portion of the audience, indicating a growing interest in financial literacy among urban youth.

Understanding financial products and services empowers individuals to make educated choices, plan their finances efficiently, manage debt prudently, build financial stability, and alleviate financial stress. Ultimately, financial literacy is foundational to achieving lasting financial stability and prosperity, enabling individuals to establish a secure and prosperous future. 

CriticalRiver Announces 100% Of Its Employees Will Now Have Ownership In The Company Through Stock Options

* Harvard Business Review Outlines Enhanced Productivity and Growth Owed to Employee Ownership

CriticalRiver Inc., a leading technology solutions provider announces that 100% of its employees will now have ownership in the company through its lucrative ESOP initiative, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to empowering its workforce. This move underscores CriticalRiver's commitment to fostering a culture of customer-centricity, employee empowerment, and shared success. CriticalRiver embarks on a new chapter where every team member has a stake in the company's future. With over 1,000 employees across 9 global locations, this strategic move reinforces the company’s commitment to retaining its top talent. As part of the transition, CriticalRiver will grant 100 ESOPs to each employee annually based on their years of service. Furthermore, each employee's account will receive an additional 100 ESOPs each year. This move not only reflects the company's dedication to building long-term relationships with clients and maintaining a positive company reputation.

According to the Harvard Business Review, businesses with at least 30% employee ownership tend to be more productive, experience faster growth, and have a lower likelihood of going out of business compared to their counterparts. In addition to ensuring the continuity of quality talent, this model reinforces a customer-centric approach, where employees deeply invest in satisfying clients and meeting their expectations, thereby securing the longevity of the organization.

Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Anji Maram, Founder & CEO of CriticalRiver Inc., said, "This strategic move is more than a milestone; it's a testament to our confidence in our team and our collective future. Aligning with our visionary goal, we are setting the stage for propelling CriticalRiver towards revenues of $500 million by 2030 and achieving our Initial Public Offering (IPO) vision thereafter. The ESOP further reinforces our commitment to innovation and excellence, ensuring unwavering customer confidence. This strategic shift underscores our unwavering commitment to bolstering client confidence, and we're further reinforcing the founders' and management's steadfast dedication to nurturing the organization's growth."

Mr. Chandra Chandragiri, CFO of CriticalRiver Inc., expressed enthusiasm about the new journey, emphasizing the strategic decision as a testament to their faith in their employees, who are now more than ever the pillars of the company's success. “For clients, this transition promises not only improved service quality but also a partnership model where employees are deeply invested in satisfying clients and meeting their expectations. This alignment fosters better customer service, innovative solutions to client needs, and a shared sense of purpose in achieving mutual success.”

The initiative is expected to attract and retain top talent, improve job satisfaction, and foster a collaborative, and innovative work environment. It reflects the company’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to creating a sustainable and prosperous future for its employees and stakeholders, enhancing its capability to serve clients as true partners in their journey.

About CriticalRiver, Inc.

CriticalRiver Inc. is a globally recognized consulting and technology services provider that redefines the boundaries of digital transformation. Specializing in delivering innovative solutions, CriticalRiver Inc. provides unparalleled technology consulting services to address the complex business challenges of its clients, including the world's leading enterprises and Fortune 100 and 500 companies.

With a steadfast focus on excellence and innovation, the company leverages its deep industry expertise and technology prowess to empower businesses across various sectors. This approach enables CriticalRiver's clients to achieve sustainable growth and a competitive advantage, underscoring its commitment to driving forward the digital frontier.

Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Signs An MOU With Vertelo To Accelerate e-Mobility In India

Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. (TPEM), a subsidiary of Tata Motors Ltd., known for pioneering India's electric vehicle (EV) revolution, has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Vertelo, a Macquarie managed integrated fleet electrification platform, for the delivery of 2,000 XPRES-T EVs. This partnership aims to bolster the plans to accelerate India’s transition to sustainable e-mobility. The company will begin deliveries of the cars to Vertelo in a phased manner.

Speaking on the partnership, Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. said, “As market leaders of passenger EVs in India, we are committed to the uptake of sustainable mobility in the country. We are delighted to partner with Vertelo in their effort to increase EV adoption in India. With over 89% market share in FY 24, the fleet segment has seen a rapid adoption by Corporates and Institutions. The XPRES-T EV has proven to be an attractive option for both customers and operators in the commercial fleet segment. Such collaborations in the industry will further help strengthen our market position amidst India’s EV revolution.”

Commenting on the partnership, Sandeep Gambhir, Chief Executive Officer, Vertelo stated that "We are really excited to partner with Tata Motors on this long-term strategic partnership to buy up to 2,000 electric cars. This partnership aims to bring together two business that are at the forefront of fleet electrification and decarbonisation in India. We hope that this partnership will help with accelerating the shift towards a more sustainable India by making bespoke leasing options available to fleet operators that help them onboard EVs in larger numbers."

In July 2021, Tata Motors launched the ‘XPRES’ brand exclusively for fleet customers, and the XPRES-T EV is the first vehicle under this brand. The new XPRES-T electric sedan comes with 2 range options – 315km and 277km (ARAI certified range under test conditions). It packs a high energy density battery of 26 kWh and 25.5 kWh and be charged from 0- 80% in 59 mins and 110 mins respectively, using fast charging or can also be normally charged from any 15 A plug point, which is easily available and convenient. It comes with zero tail-pipe emission, single speed automatic transmission, dual airbags, and ABS with EBD as standard across variants. The premium interiors with standard automatic climate control and Electric Blue accents across its interior and exterior will give it a differentiated presence from other Tata cars.

Vertelo is a new platform providing end-to-end solutions in fleet electrification in India. The company aims to accelerate the transition of fleets to electric vehicles and build a robust EV ecosystem by offering bespoke solutions to customers including leasing and financing, charging infrastructure and energy solutions, fleet management services, and end of vehicle life management. The new platform has been established by Macquarie Asset Management and has received anchor investment from the Green Climate Fund which has committed to invest up to $US200 million. Overall, Vertelo plans to invest $US1.5 billion over 10 years with the aim to achieve a potential greenhouse gas emissions reduction.

Marriott International Celebrates Milestone On Journey Towards Net-Zero

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) has verified its near and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). SBTi is a global climate action organization that develops tools that allow businesses to set greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets in line with data-driven methodology. Marriott is the largest global hospitality company to receive approval for both near-term and long-term science-based targets.

The company has committed to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 46.2% by 2030 from a 2019 base year. Marriott also commits to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from fuel and energy-related activities, waste generated in operations, employee commuting, and franchises 27.5% by 2030 from a 2019 base year, and that 22% of its suppliers by emissions covering purchased goods and services, capital goods, and upstream transportation and distribution will have science-based targets by 2028.

Marriott commits to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain by 2050, reducing absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 90% by 2050 from a 2019 base year and reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions 90% by 2050 from a 2019 base year. The target boundary includes land-related emissions and removals from bioenergy feedstocks.

“For nearly a century, Marriott has been committed to our core value of serving our world as we strive to be a force for good wherever we do business,” said Anthony Capuano, President and CEO, Marriott International. “The impact of climate change is being seen and felt across the globe. As we continue to connect people through the power of travel, we are committed to driving meaningful improvements to the environment and are energized by reaching this significant milestone. The approval of our near-term and long-term targets is the result of the hard work and dedication of Marriott’s teams around the world who are committed to our climate action journey and creating the future of sustainable hospitality.”

“Marriott has been on a journey to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in our operations and supply chain. We believe it’s good business and good for the planet,” said Erika Alexander, Chief Global Operations Officer, Marriott International. “The decarbonization of the global electrical grid is a vital component of reducing GHG emissions. We are united with other leading companies in elevating efforts to help address the effects of climate change and hold ourselves accountable as we embed sustainability throughout our operations.”

To reach its net-zero target, Marriott is focusing its efforts in three distinct areas: energy reduction, sourcing more energy from renewables, and purchasing goods with lower carbon footprints across its portfolio of over 8,800 properties in 139 countries and territories.

The company’s recent sustainability highlights include:

Launching the Climate Action Program (CAP), the company’s approach to charting a growth-focused future through building climate fluency, addressing climate risk, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the organization.

Delivering property-specific carbon and energy reduction targets to every managed and franchised hotel globally.

Enhancing the Marriott Environment Sustainability Hub (MESH), a global platform for properties to log monthly power, water and waste metrics. With these enhancements, properties can now easily access customized, property-specific information for reducing energy and carbon.

Introducing the Energy Optimization Program to help properties manage rising energy costs. The program assists properties in conducting an energy audit to identify ways to become more energy efficient.

Engaging with suppliers as they work to understand and reduce their emissions.

Sharing sustainability information, including individual hotel carbon footprint data, on Marriott.com.

Marriott’s sustainability strategy is focused on a wide range of tactics including designing resource-efficient hotels, implementing technologies to track and reduce energy and water consumption, as well as waste and food waste, increasing the use of renewable energy, managing water-related risks, focusing on third-party sustainability certifications at the hotel-level, supporting innovative ecosystem restoration initiatives, implementing and responsible and local sourcing. In support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Marriott created its sustainability and social impact platform, Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction, which guides the company’s efforts to make a positive and sustainable impact on the world’s most pressing social, environmental, and economic issues wherever it does business. More details about Serve 360 can be found at Marriott.com/Serve360.

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.