Made-in-India Yamaha Ray ZR 125 Witness Robust Sales Performance In Europe

* Around 13,400 units exported collectively in several European markets between Jan to July, 2024

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd., announced a significant achievement in their manufacturing history, celebrating the phenomenal success of the Made-in-India, Yamaha Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid, in the European Market. This scooter, renowned for its superior quality and cutting-edge features, has captivated consumers across several European markets. The model has witnessed outstanding sales performance in the market with around 13,400 units shipped between January to July period in 27 European countries, highlighting the scooter’s exceptional appeal and wider acceptance in these matured markets that are known for their stringent quality standards.

Making a mark in the European markets, also underlines the global quality standards that IYM is adhering to across its portfolio. The commitment and ability to deliver on all fronts, such as performance, safety, style and practicality, makes the Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid a preferred choice in matured markets, such as Europe, where quality truly matters. The consumers have recognized the efforts in delivering a well rounded product and the positive word of mouth has powered further acceptance in European markets including major countries like UK, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, Turkey, Switzerland, Greece and Portugal. IYM began exporting the Ray ZR models to 27 countries in Europe from January this year.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Eishin Chihana, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies, said, “It is indeed a moment of pride that the Made-in-India, Yamaha’s Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid is witnessing a phenomenal response in Europe. This feat speaks volumes of the superior quality this scooter embodies which is in line with the global trends. The remarkable sales growth of the model in this market, highlights our capability to meet and exceed high expectations, not only in India, but also in other mature markets, such as Europe. In addition, this milestone gives our effort to establish India as a manufacturing hub for Yamaha globally, a much needed boost. We are confident of carrying forward the same momentum and replicate this success in other matured markets.”

The Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid with its dynamic styling and powerful engine, has created a niche for itself among consumers since its inception. It offers a perfect blend of performance and efficiency, making it ideal for urban commuting. Its imposing stance, characterized by its aggressive design, bold colours, and superior performance, sets it apart from the rest and makes it stand out. This scooter is equipped with modern and advanced features, such as a digital instrumental cluster, front disk brakes with UBS, spacious under-seat storage compartment, making it for a comfortable and safe ride. The Yamaha Ray ZR 125 with its light weight, offers exceptional agility, better handling, pick-up, and fuel economy. In addition, it is compatible with E20 fuel, which reduces emissions and helps in cutting down pollution.

About Yamaha Motor India group of companies:

Yamaha Motor made its initial foray into India in 1985 as a joint venture. In August 2001, it became a 100% subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd, Japan (YMC). In 2008, Mitsui & Co., Ltd. entered into an agreement with YMC to become a joint investor in India Yamaha Motor Private Limited (IYM). IYM's manufacturing facilities comprise State-of-the-art plants at Surajpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu). The infrastructure at these plants supports the production of motorcycles and parts for the domestic as well as overseas markets. YMC has established its subsidiaries - Yamaha Motor Research and Development India Pvt Ltd. (YMRI), Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt Ltd. (YMIS) and Yamaha Motor India Pvt Ltd. (YMI) in India to independently support IYM in the development, sales & marketing of its products and overall business planning & regional control respectively. Presently, its product portfolio includes YZF-R3 (321cc), MT-03 (321cc), YZF-R15 V4 (155cc), YZF-R15S V3 (155cc),  MT-15 V2 (155cc); FZS-Fi Version 4.0 (149cc), FZS-Fi Version 3.0 (149cc), FZ-Fi Version 3.0 (149cc), FZ-X (149cc), AEROX Version S (155cc), AEROX (155cc) and scooters like Fascino 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR Street Rally 125 FI Hybrid (125cc).

Odysse Electric And SUN Mobility Join Forces To Drive e-Mobility Revolution Across International Markets

* The partnership promises to revolutionize the global two-wheeler electric mobility landscape by introducing battery swapping technology in electric bikes

Odysse Electric Vehicles, is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with battery-swapping solutions provider SUN Mobility for the export of its flagship electric motorcycle, Vader SM. Under this collaboration, Odysse Electric aims to deploy its daily commute bike, Vader SM, powered by the SUN Mobility's advanced battery-swapping technology, in key markets across the world. This collaboration marks an important step for Odysse Electric in expanding its global footprint and accelerating the adoption of electric mobility worldwide.

Vader SM is powered by two of SUN Mobility’s Smart Batteries, that are AIS-156 approved and are portable and swappable at SUN Mobility’s Quick Interchange Stations. Vader SM has a digital instrument cluster, is powered by a 4000 watt electric motor with a top speed of 80 kmph and range of 130 kms per swap. Vader SM offers 5 drive modes including Eco, Power, Sports, Reverse and Parking mode with cruise control. Vader SM also has advanced features such as Combi Braking system, Hill assist, Energy Regeneration and includes CAN communication with built-in protection circuits, ensuring safety and convenience for commuters.

This partnership will leverage SUN Mobility’s innovative battery-swapping platform to enhance the accessibility and convenience of Odysse Electric’s Vader SM for international markets, including Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia under the Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model. These vehicles will be manufactured in Odysse’s Ahmedabad facility in Gujarat.

SUN Mobility is currently deploying its swapping stations across Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia on a pilot basis to enable riders to swap batteries quickly and conveniently, addressing the key concerns of upfront cost, range anxiety and long charging time for EV owners.

Mr. Nemin Vora, CEO, Odysse Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. said, “We see huge export potential in the EV market and aim to contribute to the EV aspirations globally. This collaboration underscores our dedication to spearheading the transition towards providing sustainable mobility solutions on a global scale. Our association with SUN Mobility will enable us to bring our flagship product, Vader SM, to new markets by leveraging SUN Mobility’s advanced battery infrastructure and network.”

Mr. Ajay Goel, Co-founder & Executive Director, SUN Mobility, said, "We are proud to collaborate with Odysse Electric Vehicles in introducing the Vader SM, one of India's first electric motorcycle powered with SUN Mobility’s advanced battery-swapping technology, to international markets. This partnership marks a significant step forward in our mission to drive affordable sustainable mobility solutions globally, leveraging our innovative battery swapping platform to enhance accessibility and convenience for electric vehicle users worldwide."

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations Releases July’24 Vehicle Retail Data

Overall Growth: The Indian Auto Retail sector experienced a double digit growth of 13.84% YoY.

Segment Performance:

Two-Wheelers (2W): Positive YoY growth of 17.17%.

Three-Wheelers (3W): Increased by 12.88% YoY.

Passenger Vehicles (PV): Double digit growth of 10.18% YoY.

Tractors (Trac): Significant YoY decline of 11.95%.

Commercial Vehicles (CV): Increased by 5.93% YoY.

Challenges Identified:

Monsoon Impact: Above-normal cumulative rainfall with uneven geographical distribution, leading to varying impacts across regions.

Consumer Sentiment: Low in some regions due to heavy rains and economic uncertainties.

High Inventory Levels: PV segment inventory surged to historic highs of 67-72 days amounting to Rs 73,000 Crores worth of stock, thus posing risks for dealer sustainability.

Financial Strain: Dealers continue to face financial pressure due to high inventory and interest costs.

Market Competition: Increased competition and heavy discounting in the PV segment.

Near-Term Outlook

Monsoon Forecast: IMD predicts 'above normal' rainfall in the second half of the monsoon season due to potential La Nina conditions.

Agricultural Impact: Brief monsoon break in August not expected to impact overall rainfall, crucial for Kharif sowing and standing crops.

Festive Season: Expected to boost auto retail sales across segments.

Product Launches and Promotions: Availability of new models and ongoing sales promotions to support future growth.

Dealer Sentiment: Cautiously optimistic outlook with anticipated new product launches, despite concerns over low customer inquiries and potential impacts of heavy rains.

Cautious optimism in near term.

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) released Vehicle Retail Data for July'24.

July24 Retails

FADA Vice President Mr. C S Vigneshwar provided insights on July 2024's auto retail performance, stating, “Following a deficient June, monsoons in India have intensified, resulting in above-normal cumulative rainfall for July. However, the geographical distribution was uneven, with Southern and Central India receiving excess rain, while 10 meteorological divisions experienced a double-digit deficit. Kharif sowing has increased by 2.3% since last year, but these figures are somewhat misleading due to poor sowing activity in the previous year caused by El Nino disruptions. Compared to July 2023, the sown area has actually decreased by 2.4%, according to experts.

Despite these challenges, India’s automobile retail sector saw a YoY growth of 13.84%, with almost all categories witnessing an increase. Two-wheelers (2W) grew by 17%, three-wheelers (3W) by 13%, passenger vehicles (PV) by 10% and commercial vehicles (CV) by 6%. Tractors, however, continued to underperform, falling by 12% YoY.

The 2W segment experienced notable growth due to a thriving rural economy, positive monsoon effects, and government support programs enhancing rural incomes. The introduction of new products and better stock availability also contributed significantly, despite market slowdowns in certain regions, excessive rains, and increased competition. The segment also saw an increase in EV sales due to discounts and EMPS scheme deadline.

PV sales saw a robust 14% growth, driven by new model launches and attractive pricing strategies. Dealers reported benefits from good product availability, attractive schemes, and a wider range of products. Nonetheless, heavy rains, low consumer sentiment, and intense competition posed challenges. Some dealers managed to sustain sales through strong promotions and incremental discounts.

However, this growth is accompanied by a significant concern. Inventory levels have surged to a historic high of 67-72 days, equating to Rs 73,000 crores worth of stock. This poses a substantial risk for dealer sustainability, necessitating extreme caution. FADA urges PV OEMs to be vigilant about potential dealer failures due to these high inventory levels. It is also crucial for the Reserve Bank of India to mandate financial institutions to implement stringent checks before releasing inventory funding, preferably requiring dealer consent or collaterals to prevent the escalation of NPAs.

CV retail sales showed a 6% YoY growth, with dealers reporting mixed sentiments. Positive factors included growth in the construction and mining sectors, while challenges such as continuous rainfall, negative rural market sentiment, poor finance availability, and high vehicle prices were also noted. Some dealers achieved growth through small bulk deals and leveraging increased market reach and product acceptability.”

Near-Term Outlook

The near term outlook across the auto retail segments shows a blend of optimism and caution. 2W sales are expected to be buoyed by factors such as a growing rural economy, positive monsoon impacts and the introduction of new products. The festive season beginning after the Aadi festival and favourable agricultural conditions are also likely to contribute to increased sales. However, heavy rainfall, ongoing agricultural activities and inconsistent monsoon patterns may dampen demand in certain areas.

PV could see mixed results. While the festive season, attractive schemes and good monsoon are expected to boost sales, concerns over low consumer sentiment, heavy rainfall and a lack of new product launches persist. High inventory levels pose a significant risk and it is crucial for PV OEMs to avoid further increases in stock to prevent financial strain on dealers. CV face a modest outlook, with positive factors including improved market reach and the festive season, tempered by challenges such as bad freight rates and ongoing rainfall.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that rainfall in the second half of the monsoon season (August-September) is likely to be 'above normal' due to the potential formation of La Nina conditions. While August may see a brief break in the monsoon, overall rainfall for the two months is expected to remain high, which is crucial for Kharif sowing and standing crops. However, excessive rains could lead to city flooding, floods in low-lying areas and landslides in hilly regions, potentially impacting auto retail sales.

The auto retail market is cautiously optimistic for the near term, driven by positive monsoon effects, the festive season, and some product launches. Nonetheless, challenges such as heavy rainfall, high inventory levels in the PV segment, and economic uncertainties warrant caution. Effective inventory management and stringent financial checks are essential to sustain growth and mitigate financial risks, ensuring the stability and health of the auto retail sector.       

Key Findings from our Online Members Survey

Liquidity

Neutral               50.22%

Good                 25.97%

Bad                      23.81%

Sentiment

Neutral              45.89%

Good                   29.87%

Bad                      24.24%

Expectation from August’24

Growth               51.08%

Bad                      38.10%

De-growth         10.82%

Ageas Federal Life Insurance Partners With PhonePe” Tie Up To Increase Life Insurance Penetration In India

* 1st of it’s kind partnership to offer Instant Term insurance on a digital platform – PhonePe

* The partnership will ensuring swift, seamless and hassle-free policy purchase across India

Ageas Federal Life Insurance, one of India's leading private life insurers, has announced their partnership with PhonePe to provide Instant Term insurance to its vast customer base. This pioneering collaboration marks a significant milestone, as Ageas Federal Life Insurance becomes the first insurer in the industry to offer Instant term insurance through the PhonePe platform. This initiative is poised to enhance insurance penetration across India, particularly in Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities, by leveraging PhonePe's extensive reach of 20 crore monthly active users.

Through this partnership, PhonePe users aged 18-45 can easily access the 'Ageas Federal Life Insurance Group Term Plan' via the app, enjoying a seamless digital application process with no medical tests or extensive paperwork. Users can choose a sum assured ranging from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 25 lakh and opt for either monthly or yearly premium payments, starting at just Rs. 5,000 annually. This collaboration is rooted in a shared vision of leadership and innovation, bringing insurance solutions to millions of underserved customers and reinforcing both brands' commitment to making financial protection accessible to all.

Speaking on the partnership, Sachin Gupta - Business Head - Digital & D2C, Ageas Federal Life Insurance, said, “We at Ageas Federal Life Insurance are extremely excited about our partnership with Phone Pe. Not only does it help us realize our commitment to make insurance accessible to all, but the digitization of the process will also ease the customer journey. The end-to-end process of purchasing a policy, from application to issuance, can be completed swiftly and seamlessly, with policies issued instantly. Through this partnership with PhonePe, we are confident of creating a robust distribution channel for digitally savvy customers and securing a fearless future for all."

The goal of this collaboration is to streamline the insurance purchasing process and give customers a transparent and hassle-free process at the tips of their fingers.

Nilesh Agarwal - Head of Insurance, PhonePe said “We are delighted to partner with Ageas Federal Life Insurance as we continue our journey to provide market-leading customized products with exceptional service and customer experience. We believe there are complementary synergies between our work ethos and offerings, and this partnership will enable us to offer needs-based life insurance solutions seamlessly to our customers. Ageas Federal Life Insurance Group Term Life insurance plan will be fully integrated into the PhonePe platform. This association benefits PhonePe significantly as we now offer group term life insurance for the first time.”

Orientation Program At MSAP, MAHE, Manipal, Held On July 26, 2024

The Orientation Program held at Manipal School of Architecture and Planning (MSAP), MAHE, Manipal, on July 26th 2024, was a resounding success. The institute warmly welcomed the newly enrolled students. The event aimed to acquaint students with the institution's culture, values, and academic offerings, laying a strong foundation for their educational journey.

Dr. Nandineni Rama Devi, Director of MSAP, delivered a heartfelt welcome address. Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor - Technology & Science, MAHE, Manipal was the Chief Guest and Ar. Siddharth Sankar, Partner at Sankar & Associates, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, an alumnus of MSAP was the Guest of Honour for the event. They shared their experiences motivating the new students towards pursuit of excellence

Dr. Geetha Maiya, Director of Student Affairs, and Col. Vinod Bhasker, Chief Warden of MIT Hostels, assured the students of a strong support system and comfortable hostel facilities, ensuring their experience at MSAP feels like a "home away from home.

Dr. Pradeep Kini, Joint Director, MSAP,  Prof. Sanghamitra Roy, Associate Director, Academics and Examination, MSAP, Dr. Veena Rao, Head of the Department of Design, MSAP acknowledged the faculty's support and the student’s coordination, who contributed to the seamless functioning of the event. Prof. Sonali Walimbe extended sincere appreciation to all individuals who wholeheartedly contributed to the success of the program.

The event was attended by parents, students, faculty, and student volunteers. It set a positive and exciting tone for the incoming students to start their academic journey  at MSAP with determination and vigour.

54% Surveyed Parents Often Feel That They Don’t Have Instant Answers For Kids’ uestions, Amazon Alexa Study

Children are inherently curious and parents are always trying to find accurate answers that satiate their curiosity. This was apparent in a recent study commissioned by Amazon Alexa and conducted by Kantar among 750+ parents across six cities in June 2024. The survey reveals that about 54% of surveyed parents often feel that they don’t have instant answers for kids’ questions. It further indicates that 52% respondents instantly search and answer accurately if they don’t know the answer. What’s interesting to note is that 44% surveyed parents admitted to making up answers on the spot.

Only 3% surveyed parents ignore the question or change the topic to stop the kid from asking questions

“How to make a car?”, “How big is the universe?”, “How does an aeroplane fly?”, and “How do fish breathe under water?”, etc. are some of the curious questions asked by kids. About 60% of surveyed parents indicated that they often find themselves stumped when kids ask seemingly easy questions such as, “What season comes between winter and summer?”, “Why do parents have to work?”, and “Why do we wash vegetables?”, among others. Some parents even tend to deflect answers to their partner, with 37% of the survey pool admitting to asking their kids to go to the other parent with their questions.

Kids ask more questions when watching TV

The study further elaborates on children’s curiosity triggers; wherein 63% parents have revealed that their kids become more curious and ask questions when watching TV. Traveling (57%), studying (56%), outdoor activities (55%), watching content on handheld devices (52%), and listening to conversations amongst adults (50%) are the other five activities that ignite curiosity amongst kids. Moreover, food, animals, nature, general knowledge, holidays, technology, and movies emerged as some of the top topics that kids enquire about.

Technology has helped transform the way parents access and transfer information to their kids

The survey further states that more than 80% of parents often use technology to find information that can help them answers their kids’ questions. Technologies like voice AI services, including Alexa (available in devices like Echo smart speakers), can prove to be of great assistance in parenting as it can help parents find information or answers to their kids’ questions, helping their children in freely satiating their curiosity with ready responses.  So, when kids are feeling curious, parents can take Alexa’s help by asking any number of questions across a wide range of topics, from science to history and beyond.

“From asking spontaneous questions to those that are more knowledge-based or unconventional for their age, kids are inherently curious and constantly on the hunt for answers about the world around them. It’s crucial for parents to respond to their questions in ways that are informative, simple to understand, constructive, and age-appropriate,” said Dilip R.S., Country Manager for Alexa, Amazon India. “Today, across the world, families with young kids ask Alexa 25 million questions per month – a testimony to Alexa becoming an information and learning hub for parents. Our focus remains on continuing to improve how families with young kids experience Alexa by packing it with relevant skills that can help them learn new things each day while also having fun.”

Parents encourage their kids to ask more questions

More than 90% of parents agree that they encourage their kids to asking more questions to help them continually grow and learn about new things. Nearly 92% of parents agree that they learn new things in this process of responding to their kids’ questions.

Deepender Rana, Executive Managing Director – South Asia, Insights Division, Kantar said “Kids these days are more curious than ever and parents always try their best to satiate their curiosity. While watching TV drives curiosity amongst kids and often leads to them asking more questions about the things they see and hear –majority of surveyed parents prefer screen-free learning for their kids. And this is where voice-first search, whether done by parents or by kids in their presence, proves to be a great screen-free solution to find answers and learn about the world.”

With numerous voice-first engaging experiences for kids on Alexa smart speakers like Echo Pop and Echo Dot, parents can engage their children with curiosity-driven content, with trust and safety at the forefront.

About Kantar

Kantar is the world’s leading marketing data and analytics business and an indispensable brand partner to the world’s top companies, including 96 of the world’s 100 biggest advertisers. We combine the most meaningful attitudinal and behavioural data with deep expertise and technology platforms to track how people think and act. We help clients develop the marketing strategies that shape their future and deliver sustainable growth. For more information, visit www.kantar.com  

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Amazon strives to be Earth’s Most Customer-Centric Company, Earth’s Best Employer, and Earth’s Safest Place to Work. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalised recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the things pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit www.aboutamazon.in and follow @AmazonNews_IN.

The 13th Edition of Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2024" Concludes With Unprecedented Success

Key Highlights:

* The 13th Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2024 event celebrated emerging talent and leading innovators through awards such as the Bengaluru INDIA NANO Innovation Award,  

* Karnataka DST Nanoscience Fellowships, Nanotech Quiz Award, Poster Awards, Exhibitor Awards and NanoSparX Awards.

* The conference featured 81 distinguished speakers across 41 sessions, exploring a broad range of topics from cutting-edge research to practical industry applications in nanotechnology. Over 200 young attendees participated in the pre-conference tutorials.

 * This year’s event attracted 1,018 delegates and participation from 11 countries, including Korea, Morocco, USA, UK, France, Canada, Germany, Netherlands, Russia, Japan, and Poland.

* The exhibition hall hosted 49 exhibitors, comprising 21 startups and 28 industry and institutes.

* At the Valedictory, Dr. Devi Shetty, Founder of Narayana Hrudayalaya, delivered an insightful “Vision Talk”.

* The 14th edition of Bengaluru INDIA NANO has been announced for July 2026.

The 13th edition of Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2024, organized by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, Karnataka Science & Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), and Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) held at The Lalit, concluded today with resounding success. Themed "Nanotechnology for Sustainability: Climate, Energy, and Healthcare," the summit served as a stage for a diverse array of participants, including researchers, scientists, academicians, industry leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and students. Notable personalities, including Balajee Sowrirajan, Managing Director of Samsung Semiconductor India Research; Dr. Debashish Bhattacharjee, Vice President, Technology & R&D, Tata Steel Limited; Dr. Suraj Rengarajan, CTO, Applied Materials India, addressed the attendees besides several key dignitaries.

The event featured 81 speakers across 41 sessions, 1018 delegates, 11 countries, 49 exhibitors, and 200 posters. The exhibition had a footfall of 3,000+ visitors. Global Innovation Partner Countries like USA, Germany, and the Netherlands curated exclusive sessions in the GIA track. The last two days witnessed more than 150 B2B Meetings exchanges through partnering tool- InterlinX, virtually and physically. The exhibition hall showcased 49 exhibitors which included 21 Startups and

28 exhibitors from the Industry and Institutes. Some of the key exhibitors included Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS Pilani), Huber Process Control Systems India, Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Park Systems India and Middle East, Pennsylvania Trade & Investment Office – India, Ray Nano Science and Research Centre LLP, SASTRA Deemed University, Semix Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-B) and VTU.

Speaking at the Valedictory, Shri N.S. Boseraju, Hon’ble Minister of Science & Technology and Minor Irrigation, Government of Karnataka, stated, “Over the past three days, we have delved into the transformative potential of nanotechnology, a field poised to revolutionize industries and improve lives. I am pleased that Karnataka and Bangalore have been central to these discussions, reflecting our commitment to advancing science and technology. Our government is dedicated to fostering innovation, as seen in our support for both nanotechnology and emerging fields like quantum technology. We are investing in science centers across Karnataka and constructing a state-of-the-art facility in Bangalore to promote scientific inquiry and curiosity. These efforts are aimed at addressing critical global challenges such as climate change, food security, and water security. As we move forward, let us harness these technologies to drive sustainable development and ensure that scientific advancements serve humanity with compassion and responsibility.”

On the closing day, the opening plenary session were conducted by Dr. T. Pradeep, Professor at IIT Madras, and Prof. S. Sampath, Professor and Chair of the Department of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry at IISc Bangalore, who delivered a captivating session on "Can Water Microdroplets Make Soil?" Following this, Balajee Sowrirajan, Managing Director of Samsung Semiconductor India Research, and Prof. S. Sampath, Professor and Chair, Dept. of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry | IISc Bangalore gave a compelling and insightful plenary talk on "AI in Semiconductors."

The conference focused on key topics such as "Nano in Climate," presented by Dr. Praveen Kumar Vemula, Faculty, DBT-INSTEM, India; Prof. Neetu Singh, Professor & Head, Center for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, India; Dr. Suraj Rengarajan, CTO, Applied Materials, India; Dr. Dinesh Rangappa, Professor & Chairperson, Department of Applied Sciences (Nanotechnology), VTU, India. "Nano in Healthcare," presented by Prof. Suddhasatwa Basu, FIPI Chair Professor, IIT Delhi, and former Director, IMMT, IIT Delhi, India; Prof. Vinu R, Professor, IIT Madras, India; Dr. Pushplata Singh, Senior Fellow and Associate Director, The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), India; Dr. Suman Basu, Section Head - Battery Pack (AVP), Reliance Industries Limited, India; Dr. Sudhir Dapurkar, Lead Scientist, Tata Chemicals, Innovation Centre, India; Capt. Purushothama Bhat, General Manager, Head of Flight Test & Operations, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, India; K Krishna Moorthy, President and CEO, IESA, India. "Nano in Energy," presented by Shri Puneet Mehrotra, Director, Nano Science and Technology Consortium, India; Dr. Debashish Bhattacharjee, Vice President, Technology & R&D, Tata Steel Limited, India; Dr. Tharamani C N, Professor, IIT Ropar, India; Prof. Sagar Mitra, Professor, IIT Bombay, India.

Speaking at the Valedictory of 13th Bengaluru INDIA NANO event at the Lalit, Dr. Devi Shetty, Founder, Narayana Hrudayalaya Pvt. Ltd, said, “I firmly believe that India will be the first country in the world to dissociate healthcare quality from wealth, demonstrating that every citizen can access top-tier healthcare regardless of financial status. This transformation is not a distant dream, it is set to happen in the next five to ten years, propelled by rapid advancements in healthcare technology and the dedication of brilliant innovators. At Narayana Hrudayalaya, we have been pioneering this journey for over 20 years, culminating in the creation of a groundbreaking digital platform called Athma. This platform is revolutionizing healthcare delivery by enabling seamless patient registration, remote monitoring by intensivists, and early detection of critical conditions like cardiac arrests through AI-driven analysis. Our vision is for every hospital to adopt such digital technology, dramatically reducing medical errors and improving patient outcomes.

Moreover, the recent steps by the Insurance Regulatory Authority to allow hospitals to become health insurance providers will have a profound impact. This alignment of interests between hospitals and patients will drive the healthcare industry forward. Our aim is to provide health insurance coverage to the 100 million middle-income families in India, ensuring they are protected against catastrophic illnesses with affordable premiums. The future of our country will not be a mere extension of the present; it will be shaped by the dreams and efforts of all of you. Together, we can build a healthcare system that is equitable, efficient, and innovative.”

The Bengaluru INDIA NANO Innovation Award 2024 was bestowed upon the JNCASR-CeNS-SGRI Team for their breakthrough Smart Glass Technology, accompanied by a trophy, a certificate, and a cash award of Rs. 1,00,000.

The Karnataka DST Nanoscience Fellowships were awarded to five scientists: Ms. Sumita Mukherjee from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Berhampur; Ms. Soumi Mondal from the New Chemistry Unit, JNCASR, Bengaluru; Dr. Kenneth Lobo from the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Bangalore; Ms. Manisha Bungla from the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi; and Mr. Sourav Rudra from the Chemistry and Physics of Materials Unit, JNCASR, Bengaluru. Each recipient received a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 50,000.

The Nanotech Quiz, a national-level competition, aims to promote awareness about the fascinating world of nanotechnology among students, especially at the grassroots level, ensuring they stay informed about the latest advancements in the field. 437 students from 22 States and 2 Union Territories participated in the Zonal Rounds of Nanotech Quiz. The first-ever physical grand finale of Nano Quiz was conducted this year, and Mr. Animesh - Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra from the East Zone emerged as the National Winner, earning a cash prize of Rs. 50,000. The 1st Runner-up and 2nd Runner-up were awarded Rs. 40,000 and Rs. 30,000, respectively.

In the Nano SparX Startup Pitch, a total of 18 startups from across the country participated in the competition. Out of these, five finalists—Neer Shakti Systems Pvt. Ltd, Pradaan Innovation Labs LLP, Vimano, Trinano Technologies Pvt. Ltd, and Shilps Sciences—showcased their groundbreaking ideas. After a rigorous evaluation, Vimano and Neer Shakti Systems Pvt. Ltd startups were selected as winners for their outstanding pitches, demonstrating their potential to make significant contributions to nanotechnology winning Rs 50,000 cash prize each.

The Best Poster Awards, a highlight of Bengaluru India Nano, showcased innovative research from over 200 young researchers. With participation from 35 cities, 19 states, 3 entries from abroad, and 70 institutions—including 145 posters from Bengaluru—the event was a vibrant platform for emerging talent. The top 15 posters were honored with a cash prize of Rs. 20,000 and a certificate. Notable institutions among the winners included the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela; IIT Roorkee; Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru; ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources; Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences; Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research; and the Institute of Nano Science and Technology.

At the Valedictory, several exhibitors were recognized for their exceptional showcase. The Exhibitor Awards featured various categories, with Park Systems winning in the Interactive & Best Managed category. Indian Oil Corporation Limited was honored for its Content & Information, while the Ray Nano Science & Research Centre received the award for Innovative Display.

The 13th edition of Bengaluru INDIA NANO has not only showcased the latest advancements in nanotechnology but has also fostered collaboration and innovation among the brightest minds in the field. The event's success highlights its importance as a global platform for knowledge exchange and networking, paving the way for future breakthroughs in sustainability, climate, energy, and healthcare.