Punch.ev Receives 5-Star Safety Ratings With Highest Ever Scores From Bharat-NCAP

Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd (TPEM), a subsidiary of Tata Motors and the pioneer of India’s EV revolution, in a significant announcement today declared that the Punch.ev and the Nexon.ev have achieved the 5 star Bharat-NCAP safety rating. While the Punch.ev set a major milestone by receiving the highest ever scores achieved by any vehicle till date – 31.46/32 and 45/49 points for adult occupant protection (AOP) and child occupant protection (COP) respectively, the Nexon.ev scored 29.86/32 and 44.95/49 points for AOP and COP respectively. With this, Tata Motors is now the only OEM with the safest range of SUV portfolio scoring 5-stars across Bharat-NCAP and Global-NCAP tests.

Mr. Nitin Gadkari – Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, expressed, “My heartfelt congratulations to Tata Motors on this significant milestone as the Nexon.ev and Punch.ev receive a 5-star rating, under Bharat-NCAP. The certification aligns with the Indian government's vision for safer vehicles in the country and emphasizes the role of Bharat-NCAP in making India's automobile industry 'aatmanirbhar'. The Bharat-NCAP car safety standard is pivotal in realizing the government’s vision to make India a global automobile hub and increase its export worthiness in International markets.”

Commenting on this extraordinary achievement, Mr. Shailesh Chandra, MD, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility and Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, “Safety, once less discussed, is now a top priority for the Indian car buyer. At Tata Motors, safety is engrained in our DNA, which has made us an industry benchmark. We have continued to be the pioneers in driving the safety conversation – ensuring that our commitment reflects in every vehicle we manufacture, regardless of price point. We welcome stricter government safety standards and are proud to be the first manufacturer to have sent vehicles and lead the Bharat-NCAP protocol with superlative results. We are delighted to produce India’s safest vehicle – an EV – in the Punch.ev, while the Nexon.ev continues its legacy of safety with its 5-star rating. Together, all four of our SUVs tested under the Bharat-NCAP have achieved 5-star ratings, setting a benchmark for all passenger vehicles to follow. Looking ahead, our proactive stance on safety will continue, backed by extensive R&D to help us evolve and enable us in leading the way to create a safer future for every road user.”

The Punch.ev, since its launch, has been quite an attraction for EV enthusiasts and first-time buyers, with over 35% owners from the rural markets. With its combination of long range, exalting performance, cutting-edge technology, and features that are generally found in segments 2 – 3 above its own, the Punch.ev has attracted over 10,000 proud members to its family. It’s not only a truly electric SUV; it’s a bold step into the future of mobility. The Punch.ev also scores mighty high on convenience and punches above its weight, offering a premium experience that is accessible to customers.

Credited as the kickstarter of India’s EV revolution, the Nexon.ev has sold over 68,000 units since its launch in 2020. The updated gamechanging avatar of the SUV unveiled in 2023 makes a significant leap forward for the entire Indian auto industry. Its striking digital-first design, technology-driven driving experience, and groundbreaking innovations makes it a true gadget on wheels and has established a new benchmark in the Indian EV industry.

Beyond The Tie: De Beers Forevermark Diamonds For A Father's Day He'll Remember

He is the man ready to take you on a shopping spree, lend you his credit card, or take you out for dinner when your significant other lets you down! Today's fathers are not confined by the traditional boundaries and stereotypes of the past. They are caregivers, confidantes, and friends.

This Father's Day, it's time to celebrate these multifaceted men with gifts that reflect their diverse interests and dynamic roles. So, skip the predictable and opt for a gift that reflects the enduring strength and the unwavering love of your dad.

For all that they are & all that they do, they definitely deserve some sparkle in their wardrobe as a reminder to who they mean to us. De Beers Forevermark offers a range of men's diamond bracelets, rings, and cufflinks, each meticulously crafted to embody timeless elegance. But what truly sets them apart is that each diamond is inscribed with a unique inscription number accompanied by a card ensuring that you are receiving a natural, genuine diamond, one that is among the world’s most beautiful!

Forevermark diamonds are ethically sourced, ensuring the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility. This allows you to gift with a clear conscience, knowing the diamond represents not just luxury, but integrity.

Here are some unique gift ideas to honour the modern-day dad.

Classic Cufflinks:

Diamond cufflinks from De Beers Forevermark serve as a perfect gift which can be worn to work or for a night out. The sleek and timeless cufflinks from the Forevermark Icon™ Collection hold a beautiful, natural diamond at the heart of each pair and are crafted with 18k gold. They are available in both enamel and white gold. Each pair is crafted with precision, ensuring a timeless accessory that can be cherished as a memento of love.

Statement Rings:

Dads are notoriously tricky to shop for, but a De Beers Forevermark men's ring strikes the perfect balance between sentimental and stylish. These rings are crafted with ethically sourced diamonds, ensuring both quality and a clear conscience. The timeless designs, from classic bands to contemporary pieces, celebrate his unique personality and the special bond you share. This Father's Day, gift him a ring as a symbol of your love and appreciation that will be treasured for years to come. With a range of white & yellow gold rings to choose from, a De Beers Forevermark diamond ring is always a classic piece of jewellery to gift a loved one. 

Distinctive Bracelets:

Modern dads appreciate a touch of sophistication on their wrist.  A De Beers Forevermark bracelet in sleek platinum and rose gold is the perfect solution. Featuring a sparkling solitaire diamond at the clasp, this bracelet is both stylish and meaningful. Even a sleek gold bracelet from the Avaanti Collection is a gift he'll love to wear every day.

So, forget the impersonal tie or another box of chocolates. This Father's Day, create a lasting memory with a gift of diamond jewelry. It's a timeless expression of your love and appreciation for the one-of-a-kind man in your life.

To explore the Forevermark Collection, visit www.forevermark.com or your nearest authorized retailer De Beers Forevermark.

AGS Transact Technologies Set Up Addition Of New Cash Vault Facility In Bengaluru

Wholly-owned cash management subsidiary of AGS Transact Technologies Limited (BSE: 543451 & NSE: AGSTRA), Securevalue India Ltd. (SVIL), has set up a new cash vault facility in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This state-of-the-art facility will offer world class cash processing and vault services. The addition of this new cash vault facility is expected to further enhance company’s cash management operations across Karnataka.

SVIL’s new cash vault facility is spread over an area of 14,000 square feet. It is equipped with topnotch security features, including 24x7 CCTV monitoring, intrusion systems with motion sensors, fire alarm systems, interlocking systems and other advanced access control systems to ensure highest level of security for the stored cash.

Commenting on the development, Shailesh Shetty, Managing Director, Securevalue India Limited said, “The new state-of-the-art cash vault facility in Bengaluru is significant for the cash management operations at Securevalue India. Our focus is on optimising route operations and other processes to maximise growth, revenue, and profit margins. This facility will enable us to provide best-in-class cash-in-transit services with higher operational efficiency and security. Furthermore, its strategic location will offer us a competitive advantage.”

Securevalue India Limited is the second-largest cash management company in India. As of March 31, 2024, SVIL services 38,418 ATMs/CRMs across 1,800+ locations in India and has an expansive infrastructure of 47 vaults & 400+ spoke locations, and 2,370+ secure cash vans.

About AGS Transact Technologies Limited (AGSTTL)

Established in 2002, AGS Transact Technologies Limited (BSE: 543451| NSE: AGSTRA) is one of the largest integrated omni-channel payment solutions providers in India in terms of providing digital and cash-based solutions to banks and corporate clients. AGS Transact provides customised products and services comprising ATM and CRM outsourcing, cash management and digital payment solutions including merchant solutions, transaction processing services and mobile wallets. The company operates in three broad business segments, namely, Payment Solutions; Banking Automation Solutions; and Other Automation Solutions.

Ongo is a fast-growing omnichannel digital payment platform by AGS Transact Technologies, which offers convenient payment solutions. Launched in 2015, Ongo offers merchant Acquiring and Prepaid Issuance services. Furthermore, Ongo is a non-bank prepaid payment instrument and offers dedicated open-loop Prepaid solutions for consumers in segments.

AGS Transact Technologies serves diverse industries such as banking, retail, petroleum, toll and transit, cash management and fintech in India and other select countries in Asia. As of March 31, 2024, the company has deployed 248,585 payment terminals and was one of the largest deployers of PoS terminals at petroleum retail outlets in India, having rolled out 41,756 terminals at various petroleum retail outlets.

For more information, visit www.agsindia.com

76% of Indian Employees Say Their Team Is Constantly Pulled In Too Many Directions: Atlassian State of Teams Report

Atlassian Corporation (NASDAQ:TEAM), a leading provider of team collaboration and productivity software including Jira, Confluence and Trello, has launched its report, ‘The State of Teams 2024’, that addresses the most crucial pain points of modern work and highlights specific focus areas for leaders who want to build high-performing teams, through effective collaboration. This year’s survey revealed 76% of Indian knowledge workers agree that their team is constantly pulled in too many directions.

Atlassian surveyed 5,000 knowledge workers across India, U.S., Australia, Germany, and France, as well as 100 Fortune 500 executives. The data shows knowledge workers spend so much time planning and talking about work that it prevents them from actually doing work that matters. The survey found that 93% of F500 executives say teams could deliver similar outcomes in half the time if they collaborated more effectively, and they estimate that only 24% of their teams are doing mission-critical work. According to the research, 25 billion work hours are lost to ineffective collaboration each year within the Fortune 500.

Annie Dean, Global Head of Team Anywhere, Atlassian said, “Modern teams are more global, online, and overwhelmed than ever before. We know that great teamwork isn’t a product of great software alone. Great teams develop consistent practices, and constantly improve how they work. And we care a lot about validating what those new ways of working are. Our results show that high-performing teams build the right foundations for teamwork by making time to improve their processes, practices, and tools.”

“These new ways of working need to prioritize a reality where work does not happen shoulder to shoulder. The internet and AI are going to start to solve these problems for us. If we can focus, get clear on what matters, and build the right teams, we can deliver creative solutions to the problems we face - at a much higher speed,” she further added.

Team Pain Points

According to the State of Teams report, teams are facing challenges because they are:

(1) Spread across too many goals

82% of Indian knowledge workers agree that it would be easier to make progress if they had fewer, more specific goals

(2) Drowning in notifications and meetings

83% of Indian knowledge workers say it’s more important to quickly respond to messages than it is to make progress on top priorities

77% of Indian knowledge workers say that they are overwhelmed by the number of notifications and messages they receive each day      

(3) Struggling to share and find information

66% of Indian knowledge workers find it hard to track down information despite knowing a lot of people at their job

63% of Indian knowledge workers have worked on a project and only later found out that another team was working on the same thing

63% of Indian knowledge workers say that teams at their company plan and track work in different ways, which makes it hard to collaborate

(4) Unsure how to harness AI in their day-to-day

68% of Indian knowledge workers agree that AI is important, but they don't get how to use it in their day-to-day work.

Focus Areas

Top teams stop to answer and act on these three questions:

(1) Are we working on the right things?

In India, when teams put processes in place to identify their top-priority work, they are:

7.5x more likely to be effective

7.5x more likely to be productive

9.8x more likely to be adaptable

(2) Do we use our time to make real progress?

Globally, teams who make the most of their time are:

1.6x less likely to engage in “productivity theater” [acting busy to appear productive without actually making progress on important tasks]

1.6x more likely to plan and track work in consistent ways across teams

(3) Is knowledge easy to find and understand?

In India, when teams make information self-serve, they are:

5.4x more likely to be effective

5.6x more likely to be productive

6.8x more likely to be adaptable

For further details on Atlassian’s State of Team report or to download it, please visit: https://www.atlassian.com/blog/state-of-teams-2024

About Atlassian

Atlassian unleashes the potential of every team. Our agile & DevOps, IT service management and work management software helps teams organize, discuss, and complete shared work. The majority of the Fortune 500 and over 300,000 companies of all sizes worldwide - including NASA, Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys and Salesforce - rely on our solutions to help their teams work better together and deliver quality results on time. Learn more about our products, including Jira, Confluence and Loom at https://atlassian.com.

Quess Corp Launches Its Blue-Collar Recruitment Satellite Hubs, ‘Jobspot’, In Karnataka

* Jobspot by Quess guarantees on the spot jobs within 30 minutes to blue-collar workers

*  Plans to launch 15 Jobspot centres in 2024

Quess Corp, India’s leading business solutions provider, today announced the launch of its flagship blue-collar recruitment satellite hubs – Jobspot by Quess. These centres were launched to address the growing demand for talent in the industrial sector, especially the manufacturing industry and assure jobseekers a guaranteed job within 30 minutes. Jobspot centres are strategically located in proximity to manufacturing centres for automobile, textiles, electronics, and the machinery industry. The first two Jobspot centres were inaugurated at Narasapura, Karnataka and Hosur, Tamil Nadu.

Driven by the government’s push for investments in labour intensive industries and initiatives such as Make in India, Project Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, The SAMARTH Udyog Bharat 4.0, and the National Manufacturing Policy, the industrial and manufacturing sectors are seeing sustained growth. This has led to India emergening as a manufacturing hub, with numerous multinational corporations establishing their manufacturing plants within the country.  This sector, currently accounting for around 16-17% of the GDP and employing nearly 20% of the workforce, is projected to experience a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 4% from 2023 to 2028 and has further impetus for growth with the National Manufacturing Policy targeting to increase the share of manufacturing to 25% of India’s GDP by 2025.

With this robust growth outlook, women’s participation in the manufacturing sector in India also requires critical focus. Over the last two decades, percentage of women in the manugacturing sector has been stagnant at 19-20%, according to the Annual Survey of Industries (ASI). Jobspot by Quess, which is located to provide easy access of jobs to the local community with a special focus on women jobseekers, endeavours to address the corresponding surge in demand for manpower resources within the sector and bridge the gap of women employment in manufacturing.

The newly opened Jobspot centres in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu serve as convenient platforms for industries and jobseekers to connect within rapidly growing industrial clusters. By offering on the spot job interviews and immediate job offers, Jobspot expedites the job placement process, enabling individuals to seize career opportunities swiftly, while meeting the industry’s burgeoning need for entry level talent. Through these satellite job hubs, Quess aims to inspire young first-time workers to explore significant opportunities in manufacturing. The centres will provide access to formal employment, skill development, and social security benefits during their tenure with the company.

Quess plans to establish 15 Jobspot centers in 2024, which will offer employment to over 1 lakh entry level and experienced blue-collar workers by the end of FY25. The two newly opened locations already cater to over 200 walk-in jobseekers daily.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Lohit Bhatia, President, Quess Worforce Management, says, “The manufacturing sector has witnessed a substantial surge in demand for manpower in recent times. At Quess, manufacturing already accounts for a significant 15% of the workforce placement. We are well positioned to understand the needs of the industry and with Jobspot by Quess, we aim to enhance the efficiency of recruitment for the sector. With guaranteed job placement within 30 minutes as well as an assurance of inclusivity and effective recruitment systems, we believe that Jobspot will be able to power the growth of manufacturing sector in the years to come.”

Quess Corp has seen an uptick in the hiring of manufacturing sector workforce, with over 67,000 associates employed in this domain in 2024, up from 44,000 in 2023. Operating as a conduit between jobseekers and companies, Quess ensures that organizations secure the right caliber of skilled labour while simultaneously providing livelihood opportunities for jobseekers. From production line workers to engineers, Quess enables factories to optimize their processes by supplying the requisite workforce.

Long Weekend Alert: Escape The City Chaos To Peaceful Destinations From Bangalore

Embark on an unforgettable long weekend getaway from Bangalore! Whether you seek spiritual serenity in Tirupati, coastal charm in Pondicherry, cultural immersion in Trichy, or coastal allure in Chennai, our curated list has something for every traveler. Rejuvenate your soul and create lasting memories amidst divine temples, French-infused architecture, ancient traditions, and pristine beaches. Escape the hustle and bustle of Bangalore and immerse yourself in unforgettable experiences!

Traveling from Bangalore:

Tirupati - Nestled amidst the ethereal Eastern Ghats, Tirupati, a renowned spiritual hub, beckons devotees and visitors alike with its celestial aura and captivating landscapes. Situated approximately 550 km from the cosmopolitan city of Bangalore, this sacred destination offers a mesmerizing escape from the urban bustle. Embark on a profound journey as you ascend the ancient hills to the revered Sri Venkateswara Temple, one of the most significant Hindu pilgrimage sites, where the air resonates with the chants of devotees. Lose yourself in the divine ambiance of the temple's intricately carved gopurams and the serene atmosphere that envelops the entire complex. Indulge in a leisurely stroll along the bustling Car Street, lined with an array of shops offering everything from fragrant floral garlands to delectable local delicacies, capturing the essence of Tirupati's rich cultural tapestry.

Chennai - Steeped in rich cultural heritage and a vibrant cosmopolitan spirit, Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, beckons visitors with its captivating charm. Situated approximately 350 km from the bustling city of Bangalore, this coastal metropolis offers a mesmerizing escape into a world of contrasts. Embark on a journey through Chennai's colonial past by exploring the iconic Fort St. George, a magnificent architectural marvel that served as the headquarters of the East India Company. Lose yourself in the serene ambiance of the Kapaleeswarar Temple, a revered Hindu shrine adorned with intricate carvings and towering gopurams, offering a glimpse into the city's deep-rooted spiritual traditions. Indulge in a leisurely stroll along the Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world, where the gentle sea breeze caresses your face, and the sound of crashing waves provides a soothing melody. Discover the vibrant energy of Chennai's markets, where the aroma of freshly ground spices and the vibrant hues of colorful sarees captivate the senses.

Pondicherry - Nestled along the Coromandel Coast, about 160 km from the vibrant city of Chennai, Pondicherry captivates visitors with its unique French colonial heritage and laid-back charm. Embark on a journey through the city's charming French Quarter, where you'll be greeted by the iconic Yellow Colonial Buildings and the serene promenade along the Bay of Bengal. Lose yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a spiritual center that attracts seekers from around the world. For the young and adventurous, indulge in water sports like surfing and kayaking along the scenic coastline. Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beachfront, savoring the delectable French-influenced cuisine and street food. Art enthusiasts can explore the vibrant galleries and studios showcasing the region's rich artistic heritage. Whether you're seeking a cultural immersion, spiritual awakening, or a relaxing beach getaway, Pondicherry offers an unforgettable experience for every age group.

Trichy - situated about 320 km from Chennai, beckons visitors with its rich tapestry of culture and history. Explore the iconic Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, a magnificent architectural marvel, and the tranquil Rock Fort Temple offering panoramic city views. Delve into the city's glorious past at the Trichy Rock Fort and Jambukeswarar Temple, or find solace in the serene Rockfort Botanical Gardens. Families can enjoy thrilling rides at the Trichy Eco Park, while the vibrant bazaars and street food cater to all ages, making Trichy an unforgettable experience for every visitor, regardless of their interests.

Getting there: Choose the green and sustainable mode of transport NueGo. NueGo is the premium AC electric coach brand that operates daily bus service at affordable rates from Bangalore’s Nagasandra Metro Station Main Station to Pondicherri, Chennai, Tirupati, Truchy and more at very nominal rates starting from Rs.399 only. The tickets can be easily booked through NueGo website https://nuego.in/ or via the NueGo App.

NueGo coaches are 100% green. These are AC electric buses with innovative technology and zero tailpipe emission. They offer noiseless travel and are safe and comfortable with features such as live tracking, CCTV surveillance, mobile charging point, ample leg space, reclining seats and much more. 

Michelin Unveils India’s Most Fuel-Efficient Commercial Vehicle Tyre “MICHELIN X Multi Energy Z+”

* Offers up to 15% fuel savings, enabling fleet operators to save up to Rs 3 lakh*

* 20%* higher tyre life than conventional tube tyres

Michelin, the world’s tyre technology leader announced the launch of its most fuel-efficient truck and bus tyre, the “MICHELIN X Multi Energy Z+”, for the Indian market. This latest line of made-in-India tyre is specially engineered for Indian road and load conditions and also takes into account the growing demand for fuel-efficient tyres by Indian fleet owners.

MICHELIN X Multi Energy Z+ represents a significant advancement in tyre technology, boasting the industry’s lowest rolling resistance that delivers up to 15%* fuel savings. This tubeless truck tyre, sized at 295/80R22.5 is an upgraded version of the acclaimed MICHELIN X Multi Energy Z, and is designed to help reduce CO2 emissions by up to 8 tons**.

“After the successful launch of the MICHELIN X Multi Energy Z range in 2020, we are excited to bring the next generation MICHELIN X Multi Energy Z+ for our Indian customers,” said Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India. The MICHELIN X Multi Energy Z+ addresses the major issue of high fuel costs in logistics, which contribute up to 60% of the operating expenses of Indian fleet owners, by providing excellent fuel efficiency and lowering their overall costs.”

For Michelin, a sustainable future and advances in technology go hand in hand. Respect for environment is a long-standing commitment and one of the Michelin’s five core values. For over 30 years, the Group has demonstrated its willingness to reduce its environmental footprint and its ability to design increasingly innovative products, services, and solutions with less impact. In tyres, Michelin has shown the way since 1992 with the launch of the “green” tyre.  MICHELIN X Multi Energy Z+ which is expected to help reduce CO2 emissions by up to 8 tons** will significantly contribute to Michelin Group’s CO2 emission reduction commitments by 2030.

The tyre range is currently available at all authorized Michelin India dealerships.