Genpact Launches AI Gigafactory To Accelerate Enterprise Value

·       Unique combination of Genpact’s deep industry expertise, proprietary Agentic Solutions and responsible AI framework drives accelerated AI-led transformation

·       Aims to create pool of over 25,000 builders of AI

Genpact (NYSE: G), a global advanced technology services and solutions company, today unveiled the Genpact AI Gigafactory -- a first-of-its-kind AI accelerator designed to help enterprises rapidly scale AI solutions from pilot to full-scale production. It addresses the growing demand for enterprise-wide AI adoption while tackling critical governance challenges in an era of agentic advancement.

“The benefits of AI are clear, but most businesses struggle with how to implement it at scale,” said Sanjeev Vohra, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Genpact. “A multi-disciplinary approach is essential to drive transformative impact—one that combines deep industry knowledge, expertise in data, technology, and processes, along with highly specialized talent.”

Despite organizations' desire to leverage the potential of AI, Genpact's recent research with HFS found that only 5% of enterprises have reached full AI maturity. The Genpact AI Gigafactory is helping businesses close this gap through:

·       Scalable AI Solutions – driving repeatability. Genpact’s proprietary Agentic Solutions provide a transformative approach to running businesses, leading to accelerated efficiencies. Its data marketplaces and engineering libraries offer thousands of pre-built AI and generative models, driving scale and speed-to-value.

·       Multidisciplinary Approach –using a unique pod delivery model and leveraging cross-functional teams with deep industry, computer science, data engineering, and integration expertise to accelerate the development cycle. Powered by on-demand talent backed by tech-partner certification programs –scaling to a pool of 25,000 builders of AI.

·       Responsible AI-First Approach -- leveraging a robust risk framework, ethical design tools, and humans-in-the-loop, talent is equipped with tools to ensure responsible, safe and ethical use of data and AI by design.

“When it comes to AI, the question is no longer if but how to scale it effectively across an organization,” said Vishal Gupta, Partner, Everest Group. “A key challenge in this journey is access to cross-functional, AI-ready talent. Genpact’s AI Gigafactory solution tackles this challenge by collaborating with technology partners and building a pool of highly skilled professionals through comprehensive training programs. This approach enables faster deployment of AI-ready professionals and accelerates value realization for enterprise clients."

Through strategic collaborations with ecosystem partners like Databricks, the data and AI company, Genpact’s AI Gigafactory is redefining how enterprises adopt and scale AI solutions with speed and efficiency.

“At Databricks, we're committed to helping all organizations build data intelligence and maximize their data investments. We see Genpact's AI Gigafactory as a critical solution in helping companies scale their AI projects," said Sabina Shaikh, Vice President, Global Systems Integrators, Databricks. “By integrating the Finance Data Hub with Databricks Data Intelligence Platform, we’re enabling enterprises to revolutionize how they leverage financial data for greater agility and insight.”     

To learn more, visit www.genpact.com/gigafactory.

About Genpact:

Genpact (NYSE: G) is a global professional services and solutions firm delivering outcomes that shape the future. Our 125,000+ people across 30+ countries are driven by our innate curiosity, entrepreneurial agility, and desire to create lasting value for clients. Powered by our purpose – the relentless pursuit of a world that works better for people – we serve and transform leading enterprises, including the Fortune Global 500, with our deep business and industry knowledge, digital operations services, and expertise in data, technology, and AI.

Get to know us at genpact.com and on LinkedIn, X, YouTube, and Facebook.

Union Bank Of India Approved The Accounts Of The Bank For The Quarter Ended December 31, 2024

Key Highlights in Q3FY25

* Strong Financial Performance:

Net Profit of the Bank increased by 28.24% on YoY basis during Q3FY25. Non-interest income of Bank grew by 17.02% on YoY basis during Q3FY25.

* Bank continues to demonstrate a strong Liability franchise:

Global deposits have increased by 3.76% YoY. Bank now have a total deposits base of          Rs.12,16,562 Crores as on December 31, 2024.

* Business Growth gaining momentum:

Total Business of the Bank increased by 4.70% YoY, wherein Gross Advances increased by 5.94% YoY & Total Deposit grew by 3.76% YoY. Bank has a total Business of Rs.21,65,726 Crores as on December 31, 2024.

* Growth in Retail, Agri and MSME (RAM) segments:

RAM Segment of the Bank increased by 9.26% YoY, where 16.36% growth in Retail, 4.34% growth in Agriculture and 6.34% growth in MSME is achieved on YoY basis. RAM advances as a percent of Domestic Advances stood at 56.69%.

* Reduction in NPA:

Gross NPA (%) improved by 98 bps on YoY basis to 3.85% and Net NPA (%) improved by 26 bps on YoY basis to 0.82% as on December 31, 2024.

* Strong Capital Ratios:

CRAR improved from 15.03% as on December 31, 2023 to 16.72% as on December 31, 2024. CET1 ratio improved from 11.71% as on December 31, 2023 to 13.59% as on December 31, 2024.

*  Improved Returns:

Bank’s Return on Assets improved by 23 bps on YoY basis to 1.30% & Return on Equity improved by 50 bps on YoY basis to 17.75% during Q3FY25.

Network:

8,574 Branches including foreign branches

9,087 ATMs

23,114 BC points

135 MLPs (MSME Loan Points)

137 RLPs (Retail Loan Points)

54 ALPs (Agriculture Loan Points)

106 Union MSME First Branches

1,685 Gold Loan Points

16 LCBs & 37 MCBs

6 SAMBs & 30 ARBs

Financial Inclusion schemes:

Financial Inclusion schemes launched by GOI with an aim to eliminate barriers and provide economically priced financial services to the less accessible sections of the society through government-backed schemes like PMJJBY, PMSBY, PMJDY and APY.

Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY):

This is a Government- backed insurance scheme; where 4.40 lakhs new enrollments were done by the Bank for the quarter ended December 31, 2024.      

Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY):

This is Government- backed insurance scheme for accidental insurance; where 15.99 lakhs new enrollments were done by the Bank for the quarter ended December 31, 2024.

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY):

Our bank is instrumental in opening 3.14 Crores accounts under PMJDY Scheme with balance of Rs. 11,637 Crores as on December 31, 2024. The corresponding figure was      2.88 Crores account with balance of Rs. 9,604 Crores as on December 31, 2023.

Atal Pension Yojana (APY):

APY is a pension scheme, primarily targeted at the individuals working in unorganized sector, 1.66 lakh new enrollments were done by Bank for the quarter ended                      December 31, 2024.

Union Nari Shakti Scheme for Women Entrepreneurs: Sanctioned 4,242 Applications for Rs.598 crores during Q3 FY25

Credit facility towards Green initiatives: -

Renewable Energy Sector: -Sanctioned Rs. 27,269 crores as on December 31, 2024.

Union Green Miles: -Sanctioned amount Rs. 645 crores as on December 31, 2024.

At The Ninth Dr. M.V. Kamath Endowment Lecture, Shekhar Gupta Highlights Growth And Reform Priorities

Renowned journalist Shekhar Gupta emphasized the need for India to aim for a growth rate exceeding 7 percent. Delivering the ninth Dr. M.V. Kamath Endowment Memorial Lecture at an event organized by the Manipal Institute of Communication (MIC), Gupta highlighted that India has not witnessed substantial growth over the past decade. He called for introspection rather than self-congratulation.

Praising the Modi government for its efficient distribution mechanisms for the poor, Gupta acknowledged that the system has significantly reduced corruption. However, he expressed concern that India appears to be stuck in a cycle of stagnation, with no substantial progress to showcase. He noted that the tendency to conflate domestic politics with international issues often detracts from meaningful development, as everything becomes focused on electoral gains. Gupta remarked that Indians often assume a moral right to preach to the world, rooted in the strength of their ancient civilization. However, he pointed out that the global order is undergoing significant redefinition. He highlighted India and Tanzania as examples of multi-civilizational societies that have endured over time.

The journalist observed that India has grown stronger with each passing decade, both internally and externally, and has become more cohesive as a society. He described social cohesion as a gift to the world, adding that the Indian Constitution provides a legal framework compelling diverse communities to coexist peacefully. Gupta criticized the country's economic performance, noting that the growth anticipated during the Congress-era economic reforms has not been sustained. While India initially positioned itself as a democratic alternative to China, it has now shifted to a narrative of cultural superiority.

Discussing global politics, Gupta cited the example of Donald Trump as evidence of a transformed world order. He urged India to establish international platforms and let others tell its story instead of constantly narrating it domestically. He argued that criticism accompanying development should be ignored. He also criticized the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), describing it as an unnecessary provocation. Gupta lamented the lack of contestation in Indian history and emphasized the urgent need for improvements in public education, which he described as being in a state of serious decline.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Pro Vice Chancellor, Technology and Sciences, Dr Narayana Sabahith, Registrar Dr Giridhar Kini, COO Dr Raviraja NS, MIC Director Dr Padma Rani were present.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 Specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangaluru, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable academic track record, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life and for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.

Goldmedal Illuminates Spaces With Stylish And Versatile Parkos 01 LED Wall Light

Goldmedal Electricals, one of India's leading Fast Moving Electrical Goods (FMEG) companies, has announced the launch of Parkos 01, a contemporary up-down wall light designed to elevate both indoor and outdoor aesthetics.

Crafted with a sleek black finish and robust polycarbonate housing, Parkos 01 seamlessly integrates into various settings, from residential spaces and hotels to garden pathways and outdoor seating areas. Its uniquely designed lenses ensure precise beam control and optimal light distribution, creating a captivating ambiance. Available in a versatile range of wattages – 2W, 4W, 6W, 8W, and 10W – Parkos 01 offers customizable illumination solutions to meet diverse lighting requirements. Each wattage variant features multiple lights on both sides, providing ample brightness and versatility.

Features of Parkos 01:

Durable construction: Made with a tough polycarbonate housing that ensures long-lasting durability.

Energy efficient: Provides up to 75 lumens per watt, ensuring bright illumination while saving energy.

Wide voltage range: Operates efficiently in a wide voltage range of 140-300VAC, making it suitable for varied electrical conditions.

Surge Protection: Equipped with up to 4KV surge protection, safeguarding the light against power fluctuations.

Dust and splash resistant: IP54 protection ensures resistance to dust and splashes, making it perfect for outdoor use.

Speaking about the Parkos 01, Kishan Jain, Director, Goldmedal said, “We are thrilled to introduce Parkos 01, a stylish and functional addition to our portfolio of innovative lighting solutions. Parkos embodies our commitment to providing high-quality, energy-efficient products that enhance the lives of our customers. With its versatile applications and robust features, Parkos is designed to meet the evolving lighting needs of our customers, whether for residential or commercial spaces.”

The Parkos 01 wall light is now available both in online and retail stores, with a variety of power options, including 2,4,6,8 and 10 Watts, priced at Rs. 475, Rs. 582, Rs. 769, Rs. 799, and Rs. 916 respectively. These wall lights come with two-year warranty.

The 11th Edition of IIHM's YCO Local Round On Feb 4 In Bengaluru; Grand Finale Of YCO In Kolkata On Feb 8, 2025

* India is ready for the largest student chef competition in the world

* The Young Chef Olympiad-YCO, held by IIHM- International Hospitality Council brings together young chefs from 50 countries for a week-long competitive bonding over food in a spirit of solidarity and friendship; YCO founder Dr Suborno Bose will launch his pathbreaking book on AI in hospitality and tourism at this 11th edition of YCO

One of the most iconic and the largest congregation of student chefs from 50 countries will gather for a week, in different cities, to celebrate power of food to build bridges of solidarity and bring people and countries together.

The 11th edition of the Young Chef Olympiad, will be held under the aegis of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) in partnership with the International Hospitality Council (IHC) London. The Young Chef Olympians- student chefs from 50 nations will undertake two rounds of culinary challenges, to attempt to win, the coveted YCO 2025 Golden Toque. 

Speaking to journalists across India on a video conference before this global event, Dr. Suborno Bose, Chairman of International Hospitality Council (IHC) and Founder YCO, and Chairman IIHM said “Through the course of 11 years, the Young Chef Olympiad has grown from strength to strength and has taken on many worthy causes starting from unity in diversity to the UN Sustainability Development Goals and to the promotion of Millets. This year we will secure the future of hospitality & hospitality education to make AI which we call Advanced Intelligence) help tourism and hospitality do more for people with enhanced human touch. The immersive experience of the Olympiad, will dismantle barriers and cultivate an environment where dialogue flourishes and friendship blossoms.” 

The competition rounds will start, at the IIHM campus kitchens, from Feb 3, in Goa, and from Feb 4 in Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. The top 10 Young Chef Olympians as per the scores of the two rounds, will compete in the Grand Finale of YCO 2025 in Kolkata on February 8, 2025.However there is also the plate trophy and the Dr Suborno Bose Culinary International Challenge prize up for grabs. Each trophy, in this global platform, is bound to embellish the careers of young chefs and validate their skills.  

But each of the Young Chef Olympians, along with their mentors, the judges, and the YCO organising team and student volunteers will be- quite literally, on the same plate of friendship, as each of them will go home a winner, in the cause of cementing friendships and unity through food.

There will be another winner in this year’s YCO. This winner will not compete but be the catalyst for phenomenal change in global hospitality education- A.I.  

The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), has adopted a comprehensive framework to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into global hospitality education. This initiative prioritizes inclusivity, human-centric values, and sustainability, reflecting the industry’s evolving needs while preserving its essence.

Bengaluru round on Feb. 4th 2025: 

On Feb 4, 2025. Bengaluru will host students from Romania, Malaysia, South Africa, Namibia, Maldives, Bhutan, Equatorial Guinea, Switzerland, Northern Islands and Iran.

Judges in Bengaluru will be Chef Shaun Kenworthy, Chef/food concept consultant and strategist; Chef Mario Perera, Executive Chef at The Dorchester, London; Chef Enzo Oliveri, Celebrity Chef, Cavaliere OSI, President of Italian Chefs Federation UK, Director International Hospitality Council, Senior Judge Young Chef Olympiad, Hospitality Educator, Food promoter, Events/Exhibition Organiser. 

The Chief Adjudicator will be Chef Paul Jervis - head of school Westminster capital city of college. The Bengaluru event will be sponsored by Ariane Porcelain, Brigade Hospitality, Mc Cain Foods, Incredible India- Ministry of Tourism & Yuva Tourism Bangalore Chapter and Delphis.

“This year an additional elimination round was the Young Chef India round which saw participation from students from hotel management institutes across the country. We are proud that the winner of the YCI 2025 is Aliakbar Rampurawala from Bengaluru,” apprised Ms Sanchari Chowdhury, FIIHM, Director- IIHM Hotel School, Bangalore, Head- South India & Co-Director- IndiSmart Learning, while addressing the media. 

“Showcasing the multicultural culinary diversity of different countries, YCO 2025 will also bring together the student chefs and chef mentors for the “United World of Young Chefs”. There will be World Cuisine display by the 10 participating countries at Bangalore & Karnataka Food festival organized by IIHM Bangalore in partnership with Venue Partner Brigade Hospitality on 3rd February 2025.  We are expecting a foot fall of 500 - 700 pax to be present within the age demographic of 18-25 in the student crowd and a mixture of 25-60 in the form of parents, mentors and chefs from abroad,” added Ms Chowdhury.

A book by Dr Suborno Bose on the A to Z of AI in tourism and hospitality will be launched during the opening of the YCO in Goa. This is aptly called Harmonizing Human Touch and AI in Tourism and Hospitality 

“With YCO and AI Suborno Bose has changed the realm of hospitality education”, said Padma Shri Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, Principal Judge and Mentor for YCO 2025

Intelligent hospitality, therefore will be a goal and a way of life of the Young Chef Olympians as they cook, compete, collaborate, but most importantly cement ties, in the largest grandstanding of culinary diplomacy in the world, achieved by young chefs. This impact will be felt beyond the kitchens in IIHM campuses, in the cities where two rounds of the Young Chef Olympiad will be held, culminating in the grand finale where the winner will be chosen. 

As in previous years Padma Shri Chef Sanjeev Kapoor is the Principal Judge and Mentor for YCO 2025 while Prof David Foskett OBE, the legendary hospitality educator and author is Chairman of the Jury. The judging panel includes internationally acclaimed celebrity chef judges including Chief Judge Chef John Wood, a Michelin Star Chef and Founder of KitchenCUT . 

Members of the public will also get an opportunity to participate. There will be an online voting opened to vote for the best dessert in round 1 of the main competition, and for the most popular national dish in the United World of Young Chefs competition.

As the chefs of 50 countries including India’s very own, Aliakbar Rampurawala from Bengaluru, return from YCO; the fire of solidarity of the Young Chef Olympiad movement will burn in hospitality college campuses and beyond in these countries, thus making the YCO, a truly global movement- curated and chiseled under the visionary leadership of Dr Suborno Bose, Chairman IIHM and Founder YCO.

About Young Chef Olympiad (YCO):

Launched in the year 2015, Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) aims to give young student chefs from around the world a platform to showcase their skills and compete at the global level. Through the last five editions of the Olympiad, the world has seen culinary stars been born and dreams been celebrated on the global culinary stage.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Breaks Ground For Educational Infrastructure Development In Vijayapura

- Empowering over 2,500 rural students with enhanced learning environments by 2026

In a significant step towards fostering educational empowerment in rural Karnataka, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today marked a significant milestone with the successful ground-breaking ceremony for its comprehensive educational infrastructure development project in Vijayapura. The prestigious event was graced by the Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Karnataka, Dr. M. B. Patil, alongside senior leaders from TKM, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head State Affairs, and Mr. Roshan, General Manager.

This ambitious initiative is a testament to TKM’s unwavering commitment to community development through sustainable and inclusive education. The project is designed to significantly enhance the capacity and infrastructure of six key educational institutions across the Vijayapura district by 2026, creating a lasting impact on the educational journey of over 2,500 rural students. By focusing on holistic development, the initiative aims to provide these students with an enriched learning environment and the resources needed to thrive academically and personally.

The project scope includes the construction of 26 new classrooms, ensuring safe, spacious, and conducive learning spaces for students. In addition to infrastructure development, the initiative focuses on improving the overall capacity of these institutions, enabling them to accommodate more students while fostering an enhanced learning experience. The six targeted institutions benefiting from this initiative are:

Government Degree College, Mamadapura

Government PU College, Arjunagi

KPS Mamadapura

Government High School, Bolchikalakki

Government High School, Hebbalahatti (RMSA)

Government High School, Kanamuchanal

Beyond classrooms, the project is designed to address critical infrastructure needs by enhancing key facilities. This includes the construction of fully equipped kitchens to support mid-day meal programs, ensuring improved hygiene and sanitation through the provision of washrooms across all institutions, and distributing essential furniture to existing classrooms, with the initiative already underway and progressing steadily toward completion.

The strategic execution of the project began with the supply of furniture to existing classrooms, and construction activities have been initiated at the Government Degree College, Mamadapura, and Government High School, Kanamuchanal. The remaining institutions are slated for development in the upcoming financial year. With completion targeted by 2026, this transformative initiative is set to become a model for public-private collaboration in the education sector, inspiring similar efforts across the state and beyond.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. M. B. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Karnataka, expressed his appreciation for TKM’s proactive role in community development, “Quality education is the cornerstone of sustainable growth and societal transformation. Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure in Vijayapura is commendable. This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of students but also lays the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future for the region. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact this project will have on thousands of young minds.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President & Head State Affairs - Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe in the power of education to drive meaningful change. Our initiative in Vijayapura is part of our larger vision to create sustainable communities by bridging educational gaps. By providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and essential facilities, we aim to empower students to unlock their full potential. We are grateful for the support from the Government of Karnataka and remain committed to completing this project by 2026, impacting thousands of young lives positively.”

This project aligns with TKM’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals, focusing on education, environment, and community development. By addressing critical infrastructure challenges such as inadequate classrooms, poor sanitation, and lack of proper kitchen facilities, TKM is fostering an environment where students can pursue their education without basic hindrances.

Cyient Laying The Groundwork For A Recovery Ahead

Information Technology   

REDUCE

TARGET PRICE (Rs) : 1,700

Cyient management hosted a follow-up call post-Q3FY25 earnings call after the stock fell 23% on Friday. Key takeaways: i) Karthikeyan Natarajan, the outgoing CEO, will continue as an employee and advisor at least till the end of Q4FY25, and aid in the transition process. ii) Krishna Bodanapu will be at the helm only till a new candidate is onboarded, latest by the declaration of Q4FY25 results. iii) From a business perspective, the operating metrics are strong – deal wins in Q3FY25 (also large deals) and robust pipeline are both at an all-time high. This, coupled with improving client spends, should support medium-term growth. iv) Q4 should see moderate growth (in CC terms), with FY26 expected to see growth on both, the revenue and margin fronts. We await further improvement in operational execution and clarity on the management change before turning positive on the stock. We retain REDUCE.

On a steady footing operationally

In Q3FY25, Cyient reported its highest-ever order intake of USD312.3mn, including 13 large deals. Pipeline was also at an all-time high. Going ahead, focus remains on: i) proposition clarity and differentiation, ii) move from relationship-based selling to value-based selling, and iii) rewarding incremental revenue growth (rather than status quo), with a strong performance management system. Also, the company now has a strong large-deal team. Coupled with improving client spends, the company should report an improved performance in FY26. Cyient has also made significant investments in technology over the last few years which it endeavors to translate into revenue.

Pickup in revenue and margins in FY26

The management expects moderate sequential growth in Q4 (in CC), impacted by currency headwinds. However, orders won in Q3FY25 will not fully execute in Q4, thus limiting an upside. FY26 should see revenue growth after a decline in FY25, coupled with margin expansion. Such growth will be spread through the year, unlike in FY25, where growth was more back-ended. Margin expansion will be led by three key factors: i) revenue growth, ii) second phase of a comprehensive cost optimization plan (Phase 1 in FY24), which can aid a 100-150bps margin expansion; operating costs and SG&A can be optimized, and iii) enhanced offshoring.

Transition process under way

After resignation of Karthikeyan Natarajan, the Board is evaluating both, internal and external candidates, for the position of CEO, for which a large job consultancy firm has been appointed. This process should be completed mostly by the end of Q4FY25 (certainly by the declaration of Q4FY25 results). During this interim period, Krishna Bodanapu will remain in-charge of the company, with the outgoing CEO aiding in this transition. The appointment of the new CEO should not result in any wholesale changes, but build on top of the existing base that has been established over years.