Honda inaugurates new R&D Facility in Bengaluru to Accelerate Electrification in India

Honda R&D (India) Private Limited (HRID), a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and functioning as Honda’s research and development arm for motorcycles & power products in India, today Opened its new Solution R&D Center in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Honda has set a global target of achieving carbon neutrality in all its products and corporate activities by 2050. The company is working to make a wide range of its products carbon neutral in terms of their power sources. In the motorcycle business, Honda is aiming to achieve carbon neutrality for all its motorcycle products during the 2040s.

Shifting to India where economic development continues, in 2021, the Indian government announced at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (also known as 26th Conference of the Parties, COP26) that the country will work towards achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2070.

Under such environmental change, Honda believes that in order to continue to be chosen by customers, the company needs not only to respond to electrification trends, but also to create new value outside of the established framework and provide more attractive products and services.

The Solution R&D Center will incorporate advanced mobility technologies into electrified vehicle development more quickly, as well as work on software and connected services through ‘co-creating’ open innovation by adopting technologies and ideas of research and development companies. In addition, by taking advantages of ‘ecosystem*1’ from its geographical location, the Solution R&D Center in Bengaluru will be partnering with companies with new ideas to develop new services and businesses that go beyond the scope of existing businesses and products from a long-term perspective.

Furthermore, Honda will actively work to solve social issues, such as the effective use of energy through Honda’s Triple Action to ZERO*2 initiative (carbon neutrality, clean energy, and resource circulation), and the prevention of traffic accidents to realize a society with zero traffic collision fatalities*3.

Honda will continue to provide products with new added value that is uniquely Honda, through various technological advancements and innovations, bringing ‘the joy of freedom of mobility’ to its customers.

*1 A common profit environment for products and services established by multiple companies.

*2 Honda’s three pillars to achieve zero environmental impact throughout the life cycle of products and corporate activities by 2050.

*3 Honda aims to achieve zero fatalities in traffic accidents involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050.

Photo Caption: From L to R (Sitting): Mr. Koichiro Honda - Director & OH (SRC) (HRID), Mr. Tomoyuki Maruyama - GM (HM), Mr. Tsutsumu Otani - MD, President & CEO (HMSI), Mr. Hiroshi Tokutake - EVP (ASH), Mr. Mikio Uchiyama President & CEO (HRID), Mr. Masayuki Hamamatsu - GM (HM).

L&T Technology Services Celebrates Innovation And Talent At TECHgium® 2024, India's Largest Engineering Hackathon

 -      503 renowned institutes across India participated with 4,426 concepts received across Mobility, Sustainability and Hi-Tech

-      Cash prizes of over INR 18 Lakhs for winners 

TECHgium®, India’s largest innovation platform for engineering students concluded its seventh edition on Thursday. More than 36,765 students registered from 503 engineering institutes across the country in the annual technology competition, held at LTTS' newest Bengaluru campus.

Since its inception in 2016, TECHgium® has become the most sought-after academia-industry engineering innovation hackathon hosted by L&T Technology Services (LTTS). The winners of this year's competition were awarded prizes totaling more than Rs 18 lakhs. Dr. Tessy Thomas, popularly known as the Missile Woman of India for her pivotal role in India's AGNI missile project, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Her presence and perspectives during her keynote address, inspired the audience.

“It was wonderful to see the technological innovations presented by students from engineering colleges nationwide. Such technology innovations hold the potential to shape future-oriented engineering applications. L&T Technology Services has spearheaded this praiseworthy initiative, effectively mentoring these young minds in their quest for innovation over the past seven years. By bringing together the inventive ideas of young engineers, platforms such as TECHgium® are pivotal in #EngineeringTheChange not only within our nation but across the globe," remarked Dr. Tessy Thomas.

The 7th edition of TECHgium® witnessed participation from leading IITs, NITs and state-level engineering colleges across the country. The two-day hackathon focused on the themes of Mobility, Sustainability and Hi-Tech encompassing areas such as UAVs, medical diagnostics, robotics, compute vision, analytics, electric vehicles, and wireless transmission, among others. Participants were motivated to solve real-world problems with creative solutions, offering them the chance to work with LTTS and earn recognition as TECHgium® innovators.

The winners of TECHgium® 2024's 7th edition were the team from B V Raju Institute of Technology, Telangana, who impressed with their project on AI Based Situational Awareness Algorithms for eVTOL Detect and Avoid Systems?. The runner-up accolade went to students from Sri Ramakrishna Engineering College, Coimbatore for developing a TwinScape Oil Well Monitor prototype, while the second runner-up position was secured by students from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Chennai for their solution on Knee Injury Detection System, an Intelligent Radiologist Assistant MRI?. Additionally, a special jury prize was awarded to a team from the B V Raju Institute of Technology, Telangana? for their project on Identification of Flood Prone Areas in Urban Settlements.

Over nine months, the engineering students have dedicated themselves to the competition, receiving guidance from LTTS’ technical and subject matter experts. Following a series of evaluations and ideation sessions leading to the development of proofs-of-concept (PoCs), top 32 engineering teams were shortlisted. The finalists showcased their functional prototypes to an esteemed jury of industry veterans, academicians, and analysts. After a thorough evaluation, the top three winners were announced, highlighting the apex of innovation achieved through TECHgium®.

This year's event saw the finalists present PoCs on a wide range of cutting-edge technologies, including Carbon Chain, Robust Traffic Sign Detection in Challenging Conditions, Smart Air traffic management for eVTOLs, Autonomous Stock Checking Robot, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) X ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems) and Visual Inspection System among others.

Reaffirming LTTS’ commitment to advancing the fields of science and technology, Abhishek Sinha, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director of L&T Technology Services, remarked, “TECHgium® stands as a premier platform celebrated by the global engineering, science, and technology academic communities. Our dedication to attract exceptional talent is evident through our investments in platforms like TECHgium®, a pivotal initiative for fostering innovation and expertise among aspiring engineers. The biggest impact of this initiative lies in effectively bridging the gap between academia and industry, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that has led to a fivefold increase in registrations and concept submissions since the program's inception. My heartfelt congratulations go out to all participants and winners for their remarkable achievements, which not only contribute to the industry's advancement but also propel us toward breaking new ground."

For more information on TECHgium® and future competitions, visit the official website at https://ltts.techgium.com/

About L&T Technology Services Ltd

About L&T Technology Services Ltd L&T Technology Services Limited (LTTS) is a listed subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro Limited focused on Engineering and R&D (ER&D) services. We offer consultancy, design, development and testing services across the product and process development life cycle. Our customer base includes 69 Fortune 500 companies and 57 of the world’s top ER&D companies, across industrial products, medical devices, transportation, telecom & hi-tech, and the process industries. Headquartered in India, we have over 23,800 employees spread across 22 global design centers, 28 global sales offices and 104 innovation labs as of March 31, 2024. For more information, please visit https://www.LTTS.com

IREDA Incorporates Subsidiary In GIFT City, Gujarat From May 7, 2024

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA) has incorporated a wholly owned subsidiary in the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) located in GIFT City, Gujarat. Named "IREDA Global Green Energy Finance IFSC Limited," the subsidiary was officially incorporated on 7th May 2024, after receiving the No Objection letter from the Reserve Bank of India on 8th February 2024, to setup the finance company in IFSC GIFT City.

Shri Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman & Managing Director of IREDA, said that IREDA's presence in GIFT City signifies a momentous step in its mission to pioneer innovative approaches to green financing. This subsidiary not only positions IREDA to extend its global reach but also acts as an offshore platform for securing competitive funding to drive the renewable energy sector's growth, aligning with the Government of India’s ambitious ‘Panchamrit’ targets.

He added that IREDA's entry into the IFSC is anticipated to unlock fresh business prospects and establish its global footprint in the renewable energy sector. This strategic step is in line with our vision of facilitating sustainable development through renewable energy investments, both domestically and internationally. With IREDA's presence in the IFSC, we anticipate greater access to innovative financing alternatives and enhanced collaboration with international investors, encouraging the advancement of renewable energy projects in the country and abroad.

Bank of India Signs MOU With Indian Coast Guard For BOI Rakshak Package

Bank of India, one of the leading public sector bank, reinforced its commitment to the Defence Sector by signing MOU with the Indian Coast Guard, offering a Defence service Salary Package with best in class features under its “BOI Rakshak Salary/ Pension Savings Scheme”.  

The Signing Ceremony was held on 9th May, 2024 at the Coast Guard Headquarters, New Delhi with the Indian Coast Guard represented by Shri Narendra Singh, Deputy Inspector General & Principal Director (Administration) and Bank of India was represented by Shri Sharda Bhushan Rai, Chief General Manager Head Office (Resource/ Marketing/ GBD) Mumbai, Shri Lokesh Krishna, General Manager FGMO New Delhi and Shri Ajay Kumar Panth, Deputy General Manager, Government Business Department.

Through this exclusive BOI Rakshak Package, Bank of India will offer numerous benefits to all Ranks of the Indian Coast Guard, Veterans, Recruits and Agniveers including Personal Accidental Insurance coverage upto 150 Lakhs, Permanent Total Disability cover upto Rs 50 Lakhs, Air Accidental Cover upto Rs 100 Lakhs and Permanent Partial Disability Cover of Rs 25 Lakhs. Apart from this the Bank will also offer Concessions in Retail Loans, Processing Charges and Locker Rentals.

The MOU is a reflection of Bank of India’s constant endeavor to serve the Defence Forces and help them to meet their financial requirement, aspirations and milestones.

BOI’s digital Initiative and BOI Mobile Omni Neo app will also enable the Defence personnel at Borders and other remote areas to stay connected and get easy access to bouquet of Financial Solutions.

Krishikalpa Launches India's First FPO Accelerator Program With NABARD’s Support

Krishikalpa, a leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), today launched India's first-ever accelerator program designed specifically for FPOs by Krishikalpa. This initiative, also supported by NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), aims to transform FPOs into sustainable rural businesses, driving positive change in the agricultural ecosystem.

The launch event, held at the RV Dental Campus in JP Nagar, Bangalore, brought together key stakeholders in the agricultural sector for a day of collaboration and inspiration. The event celebrated the spirit of entrepreneurship within the FPO ecosystem and highlighted the critical role FPOs play in connecting farmers with markets and resources. Dignitaries including Shri Manoj Ahuja, Agri Secy, Govt. of India, Shri Shaji K V, Chairman NABARD, Smt Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, ACS & Development commissioner and Shri Ahteeq L K, ACS, IAS, Govt of Karnataka officially launched the accelerator program.

The program recognizes the critical role FPOs play in connecting farmers with markets and resources. However, many FPOs struggle with a lack of entrepreneurial skills and knowledge. Krishikalpa's accelerator program addresses this gap by providing FPO leaders with:

* Market Orientation Training: Equipping FPOs to understand and navigate the market effectively.

* Output Business Development: Moving beyond input business and focusing on generating additional income for member farmers.

* Entrepreneurial Leadership Skills: Building the skills needed to run FPOs as successful businesses.

* Supply Chain Management: Optimizing FPO operations for efficiency and profitability.

* Market Linkages: Connecting FPOs with Agri-tech startups, processors, and ethical buyers.

"India's first-ever accelerator program tailored for FPOs is a game-change in our quest to revolutionise rural economies. By empowering FPOs with essential entrepreneurial skills and market insights, Krishikalpa aims to catalyze a transformation towards sustainable and scalable rural businesses. NABARD's commitment to rural development coupled with Krishikalpa's comprehensive approach will ensure we are poised to drive positive change in the agricultural ecosystem, fostering resilience, prosperity, and sustainability for generations to come," said Prashanth Prakash, Chairman, Krishikalpa

Launch Highlights:

* Welcome and Introduction: Krishikalpa CEO C.M. Patil welcomed attendees and provided an overview of Krishikalpa's journey and the importance of the accelerator program.

* Program Details: Patil also detailed the overall program structure, the current state of FPOs across India and Karnataka, and the selection process used to choose the 30 FPOs participating in the accelerator.

* Program Launch: Dignitaries including Shri Manoj Ahuja, Agri Secy, Govt. of India, Shri Shaji Ji, Chairman NABARD, and Shri Ahteeq L K, ACS, IAS, Govt of Karnataka officially launched the accelerator program.

* Inaugural Panel Discussion: Titled ‘Harvesting FPOs Innovation: Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs in Agribusiness through FPO acceleration,’ the panel featured a distinguished group of experts including the aforementioned dignitaries and moderated by Shri Prashanth Prakash, founder Accel Partners & Chairman Krishikalpa. The discussion focused on fostering innovation and empowering rural entrepreneurs within the FPO space.

* Ecosystem Enablers Panel: A second panel discussion, titled "Ecosystem Enablers Role in Creating Sustainable FPOs Ecosystem Marking the New Chapter in Rural Transformation," explored the roles of various stakeholders in supporting FPOs. Panelists included Shri Raman Reddy, Ex – IT & BT Secy, IAS Govt. of Karnataka, Shri Ramesh T, CGM NABARD, representatives from Agri-startup companies, FPOs, and banking institutions. The discussion was moderated by C.M. Patil.

* Experience Sharing: Shri Ikram, IAS, Finance Dept. Govt. of Karnataka, shared his valuable insights on the program's evolution from concept to reality.

* Agri-Startup Showcase: Ten Agri-startup companies working with FPOs presented their solutions and how they are playing a catalytic role in uplifting the FPO ecosystem in association with Krishikalpa.

* Future Roadmap: CM Patil concluded the event by outlining the future roadmap for the program.

About Krishikalpa

Krishikalpa, founded in 2020, is a Section-8 company dedicated to empowering FPOs. They work towards building self-sustainable FPO models, fostering entrepreneurial spirit among FPO leaders, and creating a vibrant rural ecosystem. 

https://www.krishikalpa.com/

Motorola Disrupts Indian True Wireless Stereo Category With Launch Of “moto buds And moto buds+” In Collaboration With Bose

Highlights 

Motorola today announced the launch of the moto buds and moto buds+ in India.

moto buds+ is the Segment’s 1st and only buds that have the unique certification of  Sound by Bose. The moto buds+ brings Bose’s unique expertise in Active Noise Cancellation and EQ tuning, resulting in an amazing sound experience

Moto buds+ also has support for Dolby Head tracking and Dolby Atmos for immersive multi-dimensional sound experience and comes with dual dynamic drivers and Hi-Res audio enabling lossless sound with crisp vocals and deep bass

The moto buds+ and moto buds enable up to  42 hours of playtime  with wireless charging support on moto buds+  

These Earbuds have Dynamic Adaptive Noise Cancellation which lets users choose between different noise cancellation modes. Moto buds has segment’s leading noise cancellation upto 50db.

Both the earbuds come in Pantone Curated Colors with IP54 & IPX4 rated water repellant design that protects it from spills and splashes while listening to music on your run or taking a call in the rain

The moto buds+ and moto buds seamlessly integrate into the Moto ecosystem, enhancing the experience with the moto buds app

Motorola, the world’s leading technology brand announced the launch of the moto buds and moto buds+ True Wireless Stereo offerings in India. Expanding beyond smartphones, moto buds family strengthens Motorola’s current product portfolio by integrating accessories into the Moto ecosystem, for a smoother, dynamic experience for consumers. In today’s fast-paced world where seamless integration and dynamic audio experiences are essential, the moto buds’ family stands out, offering users a perfect blend of clarity, intensity, style, and innovation. For this launch, Motorola has introduced the ‘Sound of Perfection’ a never seen before Intellectual property by a mobile phone brand that brings top music artists from across India to create five songs in five different languages, culminating in a final fusion track bringing all the artists together for a perfect fusion. The album is aimed at bringing a sensorial musical experience to the audience resonating with the true audio experience provided by the moto buds family.

Introducing Sound by Bose, moto buds+ are the Segment’s Only Earbuds which brings Bose’s unique expertise in optimizing sound quality, Active Noise Cancellation and EQ tuning, resulting in a staggering sound experience. Motorola and Bose, two iconic brands with a shared commitment to innovation have joined forces to deliver an unmatched experience for high-quality audio on the go. The moto buds+ are certified by Bose to deliver an unprecedented audio experience. Additionally, the Dual Dynamic Drivers (11mm+6mm) help users experience lossless audio with crisp vocals and deep, dynamic bass for the users to enjoy every song and movie with clarity and unmatched intensity.

Users can enjoy up to 8 hours of playtime with their earbuds on just a single charge  which together with case battery backup can last upto 42 hrs for moto buds. It also has a fast charging which gives backup of up to 3 hours of listening on just a 10-minute fast charge for unstoppable listening. The moto buds+ can also be charged wirelessly so users can break free from the hassle of wires and chords and charge their earbuds on the go. Additionally, users can immerse themselves in the fuller, multidimensional sound of Dolby Atmos® with greater depth, clarity, and details than ever before. Coupled with Dolby Head Tracking™ which identifies the location of sound as the user turns their head, recalibrating to give a more natural sound experience. Furthermore, its Hi-Res Audio certified sound system provides studio-quality music with a wider dynamic range and 3x more data rate.

Dynamic Adaptive Noise Cancellation lets users choose between different noise cancellation modes to find what works best for them. Going up to 46dB of noise cancellation and up to 3.3KHz of ultrawide noise cancellation frequency range, the moto buds+ also comes with Adaptive mode which intelligently identifies ambient noise and automatically switches cancellation levels. Conversely, Transparency Mode captures the sound around the user, so they stay tuned in to their surroundings.

The moto buds+ seamlessly integrates into the Moto ecosystem, enhancing the experience with the moto buds app. All this with a modern design and comfortable fit and feel which is water repellent and stays protected from spills and splashes in any direction.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. T.M. Narasimhan, Managing Director, Mobile Business Group – India, Motorola said, "The launch of moto buds and moto buds+ exemplifies Motorola's commitment to deliver cutting-edge technology and fostering innovation across the entire Motorola ecosystem. Boasting Sound by Bose, and advanced audio features such as Dolby Atmos, Dolby head tracking, Hi-Res Audio, and advanced noise control, all packaged in a modern, water-repellent design, our new earbuds redefine on-the-go audio experiences. Our collaboration with Bose exemplifies our commitment to partnerships that help us leverage mutual strengths to achieve innovation, enhancing the way people experience sound. Together, we aim to set new standards for audio excellence and elevate the listening experience for our customers.”

Following suit, the moto buds also deliver high-quality sound and enhanced bass owing to its 12.4mm dynamic driver with expert tuning, resulting in crisp and clean audio. Similar to the moto buds+, the moto buds also come with a Hi-Res Audio certified sound system for a wider dynamic range and 3x more data. Users can enjoy the audio undisturbed with different noise cancellation modes with Segment’s leading  noise cancellation up to 50dB and up to 4KHz of ultrawide noise cancellation range. Connecting seamlessly with the Moto ecosystem for added convenience.

It also charges up quickly, providing 2 hours of listening time with just a 10-minute charge and 42 hours of keep-up time whenever needed with a fully charged case for an uninterrupted listening experience. Additionally, a single charge provides up to 9 hours of playtime. The moto buds have a triple-mic system that captures audio from three different points, resulting in better ambient noise suppression and echo cancellation. Crystal Talk AI, voices can be heard clearly over loud environments. Finally, the moto buds have a premium ergonomics design and light in weight. These also boast a water-repellent design and are available in youthful Pantone-curated colours Starlight Blue, Glacier Blue andCoral Peach  

Availability:

The moto buds+ and moto buds will go on sale from 15th May 2024, 12PM on Flipkart, Motorola.in

Pricing & Launch Offers:

For moto buds+,

Launch Price: INR 9,999

For moto buds,

Launch Price: INR 4,999

Affordability Offers:

Consumers can additionally avail special limited period Instant bank discount on ICICI Bank Credit Cards of upto Rs 2,000 on moto buds+ and upto Rs 1,000 on moto buds

Net Effective Pricing,

For moto buds+, INR 9,999  INR 7,999 (Including bank discount)

For moto buds, INR 4,999  INR 3,999 (Including bank discount)

Samsung To Launch Galaxy F55 5G With Premium Vegan Leather Finish On May 17

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, is all set to launch Galaxy F55 5G in India on May 17. The latest addition to the immensely popular Galaxy F series, Galaxy F55 5G features a classy vegan leather finish with a unique saddle stitch pattern crafted to perfection.

Galaxy F55 5G, exuding sophistication and elegance, is set to stand out with several segment-leading features that are designed to offer users a premium smartphone experience.

Galaxy F55 5G will be available in two vibrant colours, Apricot Crush and Raisin Black, on Flipkart, Samsung.com and across select retail stores.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For latest news on Samsung India, please visit Samsung India Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com/in. For Hindi, log on to Samsung Newsroom Bharat at https://news.samsung.com/bharat. You can also follow us on Twitter @SamsungNewsIN