IIIT-B COMET Foundation Exhibits Cutting-Edge Telecom Solutions At IMC 2024

* Two Supported Startups Win 1st & 2nd prize in 5G/6G Hackathon

India Mobile Congress (IMC), a premier event organized by the Department of Telecommunications and COAI, witnessed a remarkable showcase of advanced communication technologies from IIIT-B COMET Foundation. Held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi recently, the IMC provided a platform for industry leaders, innovators, and researchers to explore the latest trends and advancements in the telecom sector.

IIIT-B COMET Foundation was invited to set up a stall under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) Pavilion, where it proudly exhibited its groundbreaking innovations in O-RAN base station, Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS), and Private 5G networks. These technologies demonstrate IIIT-B COMET Foundation’s commitment to driving India's telecom sector forward through indigenous research and development.

O-RAN Base Station: IIIT-B COMET Foundation showcased its cutting-edge 5G-Advanced O-RAN (Open Radio Access Network) massive MIMO base station technology, which is revolutionizing the telecom landscape by offering greater flexibility, interoperability, and cost-effectiveness. The O-RAN architecture enables seamless integration across different vendors, empowering telecom operators to innovate rapidly and accelerate digital transformation.

Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS): RIS is a revolutionary technology that optimizes the performance of wireless communication networks by intelligently reflecting radio waves, enhancing signal strength and coverage. This innovation is crucial for improving connectivity in complex environments and is particularly vital for 5G-Advanced/6G deployments and beyond.

Private 5G Box: IIIT-B COMET Foundation also showcased Private 5G Box, a tailor-made, high-performance solution designed for enterprises seeking to deploy secure and private 5G networks, developed by Mantiswave Networks Pvt. Ltd., a start-up incubated by IIIT-B COMET Foundation. It offers seamless connectivity, robust security, and optimized network management, making it ideal for industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and smart cities.

2 IIIT-B COMET Foundation Supported start-ups win 1st prize & 2nd prize in Hackathon:

Two of the IIIT-B COMET Foundation-supported startups, Provaya Technologies Pvt. Ltd. and Cablesmith, participated in the 5G/6G hackathon organized by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and secured the First and Second prizes, respectively. The winner, Provaya Technologies Pvt Ltd, received a prize of 2 lakh INR, while the first runner-up, Cablesmith, was awarded a cash prize of 1.5 lakh INR.

“IIIT-B COMET Foundation is pleased and honored to participate in Indian Mobile Congress, in the Department of Science and Technology Pavilion. We are grateful to the support by DST, IIIT-Bangalore and collaborating institutes and are excited to showcase technologies developed in collaboration with the partner institutes and startups. COMET remains committed to cultivating a robust startup ecosystem, enabling entrepreneurs to leverage shared knowledge and advanced technologies to drive progress in the communication sector.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Provaya Technologies Pvt Ltd and Cablesmith for securing the First and Second prizes, respectively, at the 5G/6G hackathon organized by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT)” said Mr. Sridhar Pillalamarri, CEO, IIIT-B COMET Foundation.

“We are proud of IIIT-B COMET Foundation’s, NM-ICPS, DST, GoI funded R&D centre in advanced communication participation at India Mobile Congress 2024 (IMC), where we showcased cutting-edge innovations in 5G-Advanced and 6G communication technologies. The remarkable achievement of our supported startups, Provaya Technologies and Cablesmith, winning the 1st (Winner) and 1st runners-up positions respectively in the 5G/6G hackathon organized by the Department of Telecom, highlights our commitment to promoting innovation and driving India’s telecom sector forward.” Said Prof. Debabrata Das, Director, IIIT-Bangalore.

About COMET Foundation

IIIT-B COMET Foundation, a Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) funded through the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) program of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), operates under the aegis of the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B). Its core focus lies in the domain of Advanced Communication Systems, with an emphasis on translational research, entrepreneurial development, and skill-building.

About IIIT-Bangalore

IIIT-Bangalore is a premier institute dedicated to undergraduate and postgraduate programs specializing in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (DSAI), IT for Society, and broader fields of IT and research. Situated in the heart of Electronic City, Bengaluru, it holds a prominent position in the academic landscape. IIIT-Bangalore is graded A+ by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). IIIT-Bangalore secured the 74th position in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings for the second consecutive year, 2024 reflecting its commitment to academic excellence. The institute was ranked number 9 among India's Best Technical Universities (Private) by India Today. IIIT-Bangalore contains state-of-the-art infrastructure, eminently qualified faculty, a vibrant alumni community, cutting-edge research facilities, and close industry collaborations.

The institute’s specially designed courses make the students’ cognizant of the current technologies. Experiential learning and practices followed in the institute equip them with the tools and knowledge to solve contemporary real problems. IIIT-Bangalore has consistently achieved excellent placement records every year since its establishment in 1998, thanks to the unwavering support of the industry and the expanding pool of highly skilled alumni.

For more information about IIIT-Bangalore, visit www.iiitb.ac.in

Tata Motors Wins Order To Supply 1000 Bus Chassis To Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation

Tata Motors, India's largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, announced that it has received a prestigious order from the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) to supply 1,000 units of the Tata LPO 1618 diesel bus chassis. The order was won by Tata Motors following a competitive e-bidding process conducted via the Government tendering process, and the bus chassis will be supplied in a phased manner as per mutually agreed terms.

This latest order follows the successful fulfilment of a similar, larger order of 1,350 bus chassis received last year, and which are currently running efficiently by the UPSRTC. Designed for safe intercity and long-distance travel, Tata LPO 1618 diesel bus chassis deliver superior performance and excellent passenger comfort with low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

On receiving the order, Mr. Anand S, Vice President and Head – Commercial Passenger Vehicle Business, Tata Motors, said, "We are delighted to continue to partner UPSRTC in their efforts towards expanding and improving public transport. The Tata LPO 1618 bus chassis is engineered to deliver robust and reliable mobility with high uptime and low maintenance and operating costs. We look forward to commencing supplies as per the guidance of UPSRTC.”

Tata Motors has been at the forefront of delivering advanced buses and public transportation solutions to various cities and states across India. Thousands of these buses operate successfully on the country’s roads, connecting urban and rural areas, facilitating comfortable and efficient daily travel for millions of citizens.

About Tata Motors

Part of the USD 165 billion Tata group, Tata Motors Limited (BSE: 500570 and 570001; NSE: TATAMOTORS and TATAMTRDVR), a USD 44 billion organization, is a leading global automobile manufacturer of cars, utility vehicles, pick-ups,  trucks, and buses, offering an extensive range of integrated, smart, and e-mobility solutions. With ‘Connecting Aspirations’ at the core of its brand promise, Tata Motors is India’s market leader in commercial vehicles and ranks among the top three in the passenger vehicles market.

Tata Motors strives to bring new products that captivate the imagination of GenNext customers, fuelled by state-of-the-art design and R&D centres located in India, the UK, the US, Italy, and South Korea. By focusing on engineering and tech- enabled automotive solutions catering to the future of mobility, the company’s innovation efforts are focused on developing pioneering technologies that are both sustainable and suited to the evolving market and customer aspirations. The company is pioneering India's Electric Vehicle (EV) transition and driving the shift towards sustainable mobility solutions by developing a tailored product strategy, leveraging the synergy between Group companies and playing an active role in liaising with the Government of India in developing the policy framework.

With operations in India, UK, South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia, Tata Motors markets its vehicles in Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the SAARC countries. As of March 31, 2024, Tata Motors’ operations include 90 consolidated subsidiaries, two joint operations, five joint ventures, and numerous equity-accounted associates, including their subsidiaries, over which the company exercises significant influence.

Park Hospital Saves 45-Year-Old Man From Complicated Diaphragmatic Hernia Through Advanced Robotic-Assisted Surgery

·         Most parts of the patient’s abdomen were pressed against the lung, making it difficult for the patient to breathe 

·         This surgery marks a milestone for the Hospital, which has performed 50 robotic-assisted surgeries within 50 days of installing the advanced robotic system

Park Hospital, one of the leading multi-specialty healthcare providers in the region, has successfully performed a complex robotic-assisted surgery to save a 45-year-old man from a complicated diaphragmatic hernia. The surgery, led by Dr. Anshuman Kaushal, Director of the Department of Minimal Access, Metabolic, Bariatric & Robotic Surgery, involved repairing a significant defect on the left side of the diaphragm, which measured around 8 by 10 centimetres, with the help of the advanced da Vinci Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) system.

This surgery marks a significant milestone for Park Hospital, which has successfully completed 50 robotic-assisted procedures, including bariatric, colorectal, and upper GI surgeries, within just 50 days of installing the advanced Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) system. Park Hospital is committed to making robotic-assisted surgeries accessible and affordable, ensuring patients from various income groups can benefit from this cutting-edge technology.

The patient arrived at Park Hospital's emergency department with severe breathing difficulties and abdominal discomfort. A thorough evaluation revealed a life-threatening diaphragmatic hernia, where the abdominal organs pressed against the left lung, severely impairing its function. Given the complexity and location of the hernia, Dr. Anshuman Kaushal and his team chose to perform the procedure using robotic technology, which offered superior precision and control for repairing the defect.

Dr. Anshuman Kaushal shared his insights on the procedure, stating, “This was an extremely challenging case due to the large size of the hernia and the involvement of the thoracic cavity. We opted for robotic-assisted surgery because traditional open surgery would have posed significant risks, including larger incisions, longer recovery times, and more postoperative complications. Robotic-assisted surgery allowed us to safely reduce the herniated organs back into the abdominal cavity and repair the diaphragm with a large mesh, ensuring a stable closure. The precision and dexterity of robotic technology were instrumental in the success of this surgery.”

The patient underwent single-lung anaesthesia, carefully managed by the anaesthesiologist team, which enabled the procedure to be completed with minimal risk. The hernia contents were reduced, and a large mesh was placed on the diaphragm to prevent future complications.

“Thanks to the robotic-assisted approach, the patient experienced minimal postoperative pain, a faster recovery, and an early discharge from the hospital. He was moved out of the ICU just two days after surgery and discharged in excellent condition shortly after. During his follow-up visit, the patient showed significant improvement, with fully expanded lungs and a complete resolution of symptoms,” Dr. Kaushal added.  

Expressing his gratitude, the patient said, “I am incredibly thankful to Dr. Anshuman Kaushal and the Park Hospital team. Their expertise and care have given me a new lease on life, and I’m recovering much faster than I anticipated.”

While talking about the hospital’s mission to enhance patient access to advanced treatment options, Dr. Ankit Gupta, Co-Founder, Park group of hospitals said, “Our hospital is committed to helping patients from all walks of life by offering cutting-edge treatments, including robotic surgeries, at relatively affordable costs. The mission is to advance medical care through the latest technologies, ensuring that high-quality healthcare is accessible to everyone. As a part of that mission, we adopted one of the advanced robotic-assisted surgery technologies earlier this year, to provide cutting edge surgical solutions to the patients in this region. By prioritizing both technological advancement and compassionate service, we aim to redefine what is possible in healthcare.”

Allianz Partners India Announces Partnership With CI Metrics To Enhance Predictive Weather-Based Automotive Assistance Solutions

Allianz Partners India, a leading Assistance and Services Company has partnered with CI Metrics, a leader in predictive analytics and risk management, to enhance its proactive roadside assistance breakdown solutions. By integrating CI Metrics’ advanced weather prediction models and AI-driven insights, the company aims to anticipate and respond to automotive weather-related challenges, enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.

This partnership marks a significant advancement in the automotive assistance industry. It combines Allianz Partners extensive experience with CI Metrics industry-leading technology to revolutionize roadside assistance services. 

Key benefits of this partnership: 

·       Proactive Solutions: With access to real-time weather data and AI-powered predictive models, Allianz Partners will be able to forecast breakdowns caused by adverse weather conditions, minimizing disruption, and improving customer experience.

·     Efficient Resource Allocation: Accurate predictions will enable planning and mobilizing of the resources more effectively during weather-related incidents, ensuring faster response time and potentially reducing average wait time. 

·     Enhanced Customer Trust: By offering more reliable and proactive services, Allianz Partners will reinforce its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Charu Kaushal, Managing Director of Allianz Partners India, said, “We are excited to partner with CI Metrics in this next phase of delivering unparalleled reliability for our valued customers. Leveraging CI Metrics’ advanced weather prediction models will allow us to anticipate breakdowns accurately and reduce the impact of weather anomalies on our customers during extreme weather conditions. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to provide peace of mind to our customers anytime, anywhere.”

Gagan Agrawal, Investor and Advisor at CI Metrics, added, “Allianz Partners longstanding reputation in roadside assistance services, combined with our state-of-the-art predictive analytics and AI-driven insights, will set a new standard. Our approach incorporates satellite and drone imagery, data fusion and ground up ontology stack, AI and deep learning to achieve high prediction accuracy for severe weather events.”

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Introduces Limited Festival Edition Of Toyota Rumion

* Experience enhanced comfort and prestige powered by premium TGA packages

* Complimentary accessory packages available across all Toyota dealerships until 31st October 2024.

Making this festive season special for car buyers, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today introduced the Festive Edition of the Toyota Rumion. This Limited-Edition, featuring exclusive Toyota Genuine Accessory (TGA) packages aimed at enhancing the Rumion's aesthetics and comfort is the perfect mobility choice to celebrate the season in elegance and style.

This festive edition of the Rumion, available across all grades, comes with a dealer-fitted TGA package worth ?20,608, ensuring that customers enjoy a premium experience.

The Festival Limited Edition TGA package features:

Back Door Garnish

Mud Flaps

Rear Bumper Garnish

Deluxe Carpet Mat (RHD)

Head Lamp Garnish

Number Plate Garnish

Door Visor - Chrome

Roof Edge Spoiler

Body Side Molding Garnish Finish

Commenting on the introduction of the festive editions, Mr. Sabari Manohar – Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “We are thrilled to introduce the Limited-Edition Toyota Rumion, which not only enhances aesthetics and comfort but also ensures a superior driving experience.  As we embrace the festive spirit leading up to Diwali, our commitment to offering exceptional value to our customers remains unwavering. This special edition showcases our dedication to customer satisfaction by offering newness through features such as premium accessories, extended warranties topped with outstanding after-sales service, all meticulously designed to cater to the unique needs of Indian buyers.”

The Toyota Rumion has already garnered a strong following as a versatile and family-friendly MPV, seamlessly combining spacious interiors, fuel efficiency, and superior safety features. Offering a choice between a 5-speed manual transmission and a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission, providing a seamless driving experience for both manual and automatic enthusiasts, this MPV is available in powerful K series 1.5-litre Petrol engine with Neo Drive (ISG) technology and E-CNG technology. The cutting-edge K-series engine also offers an excellent fuel efficiency of 20.51 km/l for Petrol variant and 26.11 km/kg for CNG variant.

Toyota Rumion is available in six variants of S MT/AT, G MT, and V MT/AT, S MT CNG offering a wide range of options for customers.

Bookings for the Festival Limited Edition of the Toyota Rumion are now open at all Toyota dealerships, as well as online at www.toyotabharat.com/online-booking.

Airace Elevates Geospatial Tech With New Features For Precision Data Collection: Empowering Surveyors, Engineers & Farmers

* Free Lifetime Access, Local Language Support, and Advanced Hardware Help Professionals Achieve Greater Accuracy and Efficiency in the Field

Airace Technologies Private Limited, a leading provider of geospatial solutions, has rolled out a range of exciting updates aimed at helping professionals in surveying, engineering, and agriculture. With the introduction of local language support, free lifetime app access, new land measurement units like guntha, and enhanced hardware, these updates are set to revolutionize how users collect and analyze geographical data.

“Our latest features are designed to make advanced geospatial tools more practical and user-friendly for professionals working in real-world conditions," said Swayambhu Mohanty, Co-Founder of Airace Technologies. "Whether you’re a surveyor in a remote field or an engineer on a complex project site, these improvements help you capture highly accurate data with ease.”

Making Technology Accessible to All Users

One of the major updates is the addition of local and regional language support to the Airace One application. This enables users—particularly those in agriculture and land management fields—to easily navigate the app in their preferred language. With the inclusion of land measurement units like guntha, the app becomes even more relevant for professionals working across diverse geographies in India.

Supporting the Next Generation of Field Professionals with Free Lifetime Access

In a move that sets Airace apart from competitors, the Airace One app is now available with free lifetime access, including feature upgrades at no extra cost. This ensures that surveyors, engineers, and farmers always have access to the latest tools without worrying about additional fees, making it an ideal solution for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the industry.

Boosting Signal Strength and Precision with New Hardware

To further support users working in challenging terrain, Airace Technologies has launched a new UHF Antenna that guarantees strong signal reception over distances of up to 15 kilometers. This addition is designed to ensure reliable performance in varied field conditions, making it easier for professionals to maintain accuracy and connectivity no matter where they work.

Time-Saving, Calibration-Free IMU and Lightweight GNSS Receiver

Airace’s new IMU simplifies data collection by allowing precise measurements at up to 60 degrees of tilt without the need for calibration. This feature is a game-changer for those working in rugged environments, as it helps save time and boosts efficiency. Additionally, the redesigned GNSS receiver weighs just 400 grams, providing all-day comfort for users who need to carry the device over long periods.

About Airace Technologies Private Limited

Airace is a leader in geospatial solutions, combining innovative hardware with intuitive software to improve how professionals capture, visualize, and analyze data. Focused on accessibility and affordability, Airace serves industries such as agriculture, surveying, and engineering, helping them make informed decisions through precise geospatial data.

For more information, visit https://airace.in/

Kotak Mahindra Bank Announces Results In Q2FY24

Kotak Mahindra Bank Consolidated PAT for Q2FY25 Rs 5,044 crore, up 13% YoY Standalone PAT for Q2FY25 Rs 3,344 crore, up 5% YoY

The Board of Directors of Kotak Mahindra Bank (“the Bank”) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated results for the quarter and half-year ended September 30, 2024, at the Board meeting held in Mumbai, today.

Consolidated results at a glance

At the consolidated level, Return on Assets (ROA) for Q2FY25 (annualized) was 2.53% (2.68% for Q2FY24). Return on Equity (ROE) for Q2FY25 (annualized) was 13.88% (14.99% for Q2FY24).

Consolidated Capital Adequacy Ratio as per Basel III as at September 30, 2024 was 22.6% and CET I ratio was 21.7% (including unaudited profits).

Consolidated Networth as at September 30, 2024 was Rs 147,214 crore (including increase in reserves due to RBI’s Master Direction on Bank’s investment valuation of Rs 4,777 crore and gain on KGI divestment of Rs 2,730 crore). The Book Value per Share at September 30, 2024 was Rs 740 (Rs 605 at September 30, 2023).

Consolidated Customer Assets which comprises Advances (incl. IBPC & BRDS) and Credit Substitutes grew to

Rs 510,598 crore as at September 30, 2024 from Rs 428,404 crore as at September 30, 2023, up 19% YoY.

Total Assets Under Management as at September 30, 2024 were Rs 680,838 crore up 37% YoY over Rs 498,342 crore as at September 30, 2023.

Kotak Asset Management, the 5th largest AMC saw its Domestic MF Equity AUM increase by 60% YoY to Rs 319,161 crore as at September 30, 2024.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Reports Standalone Results For Q2, 2O24

The Bank’s PAT for Q2FY25 stood at Rs 3,344 crore, up 5% YoY from Rs 3,191 crore in Q2FY24

Net Interest Income (NII) for Q2FY25 increased to Rs 7,020 crore, from Rs 6,297 crore in Q2FY24, up 11% YoY. Net Interest Margin (NIM) was 4.91% for Q2FY25.

Fees and services for Q2FY25 increased to Rs 2,312 crore from Rs 2,026 crore in Q2FY24, up 14% YoY. Operating profit for Q2FY25 increased to Rs 5,099 crore from Rs 4,610 crore in Q2FY24, up 11% YoY. Customers as on September 30, 2024 were 5.2 cr (4.6 cr as on September 30, 2023).

Customer Assets, which comprises Advances (incl. IBPC & BRDS) and Credit Substitutes, increased by 18% YoY to Rs 450,064 crore as at September 30, 2024 from Rs 380,412 crore as at September 30, 2023. Advances (incl. IBPC & BRDS) increased 17% YoY to Rs 419,108 crore as at September 30, 2024 from Unsecured retail advances (incl. retail microcredit) as a % of net advances stood at 11.3% as at September 30, 2024.

 357,012 crore as at September 30, 2023.

Unsecured retail advances (incl. retail microcredit) as a % of net advances stood at 11.3% as at September 30, 2024.

Average Total Deposits grew to Rs 446,110 crore for Q2FY25 compared to Rs 385,950 crore for Q2FY24 up 16% YoY. Average Current Deposits grew to Rs 61,853 crore for Q2FY25 compared to Rs 58,351 crore for Q2FY24 up 6% YoY. Average Savings Deposits grew to Rs 124,823 crore for Q2FY25 compared to Rs 121,967 crore for Q2FY24 up 2% YoY. Average Term Deposits grew to Rs 259,434 crore for Q2FY25 compared to Rs 205,632 crore for Q2FY24 up 26% YoY.

CASA ratio as at September 30, 2024 stood at 43.6% (June 30, 2024 at 43.4%) TD sweep balance grew 41% YoY to Rs 52,411 crore.

As at September 30, 2024, GNPA was 1.49% & NNPA was 0.43% (GNPA was 1.72% & NNPA was 0.37% at September 30, 2023).

Capital Adequacy Ratio of the Bank, as per Basel III, as at September 30, 2024 was 22.6% and CET1 ratio of 21.5% (including unaudited profits).

Standalone Return on Assets (ROA) for Q2FY25 (annualized) was 2.17% (2.45% for Q2FY24).

The financial statements of Indian subsidiaries (excluding insurance companies) and associates are prepared as per Indian Accounting Standards in accordance with the Companies (Indian Accounting Standards) Rules, 2015. The financial statements of subsidiaries located outside India are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in their respective countries. However, for the purpose of preparation of the consolidated financial results, the results of subsidiaries and associates are in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in India (‘GAAP’) specified under Section 133 and relevant provision of Companies Act, 2013.

About Kotak Mahindra Group

Established in 1985, Kotak Mahindra Group is one of India's leading financial services conglomerates. In February 2003, Kotak Mahindra Finance Ltd. (KMFL), the Group's flagship company, received banking license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), becoming the first non-banking finance company in India to convert into a bank - Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd (KMBL).

Kotak Mahindra Group (Group) offers a wide range of financial services that encompass every sphere of life. From commercial banking, to stock broking, mutual funds, life and general insurance and investment banking, the Group caters to the diverse financial needs of individuals and the corporate sector. The premise of Kotak Mahindra Group’s business model is concentrated India, diversified financial services. The bold vision that underscores the Group’s growth is an inclusive one, with a host of products and services designed to address the needs of the unbanked and insufficiently banked.

Kotak Mahindra Group has a global presence through its subsidiaries in UK, USA, Gulf Region, Singapore and Mauritius with offices in London, New York, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore and Mauritius respectively. As on 30th September 2024, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has a national footprint of 2,013 branches and 3,329 ATMs (incl. cash recyclers), and branches in GIFT City and DIFC (Dubai).