Hitachi Vantara Introduces Hitachi iQ M Series, A Modular Design With Hybrid Cloud Data Orchestration For GenAI & Industry Workloads

* Hitachi iQ to leverage NVIDIA AI Data Platform reference design, providing enhanced capabilities for reliability and performance and enabling a faster shift from AI to ROI

Hitachi Vantara, the data storage, infrastructure, and hybrid cloud management subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), announced Hitachi iQ M Series, the latest addition to the Hitachi iQ portfolio of AI-ready infrastructure solutions. This new solution provides a lower entry cost with built-in adaptability and scalability as customer needs evolve. Integrating accelerated computing platforms with robust networking, Hitachi iQ M Series combines Hitachi Vantara Virtual Storage Platform One (VSP One) storage, integrated file system choices, and optional NVIDIA AI Enterprise software into a scalable, adaptable, cost-effective AI infrastructure solution.

For more information on Hitachi iQ, visit:

https://www.hitachivantara.com/en-us/solutions/ai-analytics/hitachi-iq 

The rise of generative AI and the explosion in data processing power are pushing the pace of change. As more businesses adopt AI, the rapid increase in training costs and data management presents significant challenges. The Hitachi iQ M Series allows for a choice of NVIDIA accelerating computing platforms to select the most suitable GPU for specific workloads to ensure optimal performance across different AI applications. The solution allows for the scaling of compute and storage independently with the flexibility to adapt to diverse and fluctuating data sizes, data types, and workloads, meaning businesses can allocate resources efficiently, scaling compute or storage as needed rather than overprovisioning, and reducing unnecessary expenses.

Additionally, Hitachi iQ is integrating the NVIDIA AI Data Platform reference design, created to power the era of enterprise agentic AI. Using the design, Hitachi Vantara will integrate its premier enterprise-grade storage with NVIDIA’s accelerated computing, networking, and AI software to enable AI agents with near real-time business insights. This ensures that Hitachi Vantara customers will benefit from the highest standard for performance and reliability, seamlessly powering their most critical AI applications and transforming their data into actionable insights. Through its continued collaboration with NVIDIA, Hitachi Vantara will continue to innovate its AI-ready infrastructure, reshaping how organizations manage and use data, closing the gap between AI agents and business knowledge.

“We’re on a mission to help customers from all industries harness the power of AI regardless of the market they’re in,” said Jason Hardy, chief technology officer for artificial intelligence at Hitachi Vantara. “With the expansion of computing power from Hitachi iQ M Series and the high performance and reliability standards inherent in the NVIDIA AI Data Platform, we have created a unique opportunity for businesses to innovate, revamp user experiences, streamline operations, and optimize cost. This enables businesses to capitalize on AI without overburdening their teams or their bottom line.”

As a part of the Hitachi iQ portfolio, M Series features flexible configurations using NVIDIA accelerated computing and a choice of a high-performance file system or a global namespace file system. There is also an optional object storage repository available within the Hitachi iQ portfolio. As a result, the M Series can handle the various data types, sizes, and workload demands, making it ideal for businesses operating in dynamic and data-intensive environments.

“Enterprises generate and store vast amounts of data, much of it unstructured and

inaccessible to modern AI-driven applications,” said Bob Pette, vice president of enterprise platforms at NVIDIA. “With the AI Data Platform reference design, stored data is accessible in real time on Hitachi iQ, giving applications access to full knowledge of the business and providing invaluable insights that strategically accelerate AI initiatives.”

Hitachi iQ Powered by Hammerspace and VSP One

Additionally, to bolster the data orchestration power of Hitachi iQ, Hitachi Vantara has entered into a strategic resell agreement with Hammerspace, a fast-growing software company that is radically changing how data is used and preserved. Through the agreement, Hitachi Vantara has integrated Hammerspace software with the VSP One storage platform, expanding Hitachi iQ’s capabilities to address different data management requirements for dataset creation, processing, governance and protection. The joint VSP One and Hammerspace solution ensures distributed data is easily and transparently accessible from anywhere for GenAI workloads. As a result, Hitachi iQ represents a complete infrastructure solution for AI, GenAI, analytics, and data lake environments across a range of industry-specific use cases.

The Hitachi iQ portfolio of AI-ready infrastructure, solutions, and services is among the most comprehensive, end-to-end AI enablement tools available today. The portfolio includes an AI Discovery Service designed to help customers identify the most valuable AI use cases, assess their data readiness, determine ROI, and create a strategic roadmap for successful AI implementation.

For more information on Hitachi Vantara, visit: hitachivantara.com.

Union Bank of India Successfully Rolls Out IDEA Hackathon - First In The PSBs Hackathon Series 2025

~ Union Bank of India is the first bank in the industry to have successfully conducted the hackathon on Fintech, Cybersecurity, and Gen AI~

Union Bank of India, in collaboration with K J Somaiya College of Engineering, Mumbai, successfully concluded the IDEA Hackathon, a flagship event under the PSBs Hackathon Series 2025. This event is part of a larger initiative by the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India and Indian Banks Association, where all Public Sector Banks (PSBs) will conduct a series of Hackathons.

This initiative aims to delve into innovative solutions for real-world problems and critical areas of operations in the BFSI sector.

The event received an enthusiastic response from nearly 300 teams from over 30 colleges across Maharashtra, out of which 42 teams participated vigorously in a 24-hour Hackathon leading to a finale of 10 teams. MD & CEO of Union Bank of India A. Manimekhalai in the presence of Executive Directors of Union Bank of India announced Six teams as winners under various categories, including an all-women team and a differently-abled team.

The winning teams received cash prizes amounting to Rs. 11 lacs, with the first, second, third and consolation winners receiving Rs. 5 lacs, Rs. 3 lacs, Rs. 2 lacs, and Rs. 1 lac, respectively.

The event was graced by distinguished delegates and dignitaries from leading banks, financial institutions, fintech firms, and regulatory bodies, including Mr. Dilip Asbe, MD & CEO of NPCI. The attendees included representatives from RBI, IBA, IDRBT, IFTAS, ReBit, PSB Alliance, and top executives from other PSBs.

"We are thrilled to have hosted the IDEA Hackathon, which has provided a platform for young minds to showcase their innovative solutions," said MD & CEO, A. Manimekhalai, in her address.

The IDEA Hackathon is a testament to Union Bank of India's commitment to innovation and digital transformation. The bank will continue to support and encourage innovative ideas, driving growth and excellence in the BFSI sector.

Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks Opens Its New Showroom In Tumkur, Karnataka

* It’s 68th showroom of the company and 4th showroom in Karnataka.

Sai Silks Kalamandir Ltd (SSKL), one of India’s leading ethnic wear retailers, has launched its 68th showroom under the Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks format in Tumkur, Karnataka. The grand inauguration was graced by Sri Sri Siddalinga Mahaswamigalu on March 19.

Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks is renowned for its premium-quality silk sarees at the lowest prices in the market. With its own exclusive looms and in-house designs, the brand ensures direct sourcing and cost efficiency, offering unmatched value to customers. Its extensive collection features Kancheepuram Silk Sarees, Banarasi, Patola, Kota, Paithani, Organza, Kuppadam, Ikkat, Bandhani, and many more – catering to weddings, festive occasions, and everyday elegance. Speaking on the occasion, Durgarao Chalavadi, Director, Sai Silks Kalamandir Ltd, said,

"We are excited to bring the legacy of Kancheepuram Varamahalakshmi Silks to Tumkur with our 68th showroom. Our commitment is to provide customers with the best Price, premium Quality, and widest Range (PQR) of ethnic sarees at the most competitive prices. With a strong presence in Karnataka, we aim to redefine the saree shopping experience by offering the best of traditional and contemporary weaves at unbeatable prices."

To strengthen its foothold in Karnataka, SSKL is also investing in a state-of-the-art warehousing facility to support its growing retail network. The brand continues to expand aggressively in South India, which accounts for 50% of saree sales in India, reinforcing its position as a market leader in ethnic wear.

Cargill Recognized For Outstanding Performance And Strong Commitment In Food Safety At CII Food Safety Awards 2024

Cargill, a global leader in food and agriculture, has been recognized for Outstanding Performance and Strong Commitment in Food Safety at the 15th edition of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Food Safety Awards 2024. The awards, presented at a ceremony in New Delhi highlights Cargill’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest food safety standards across its operations.

The company received these recognitions in the ‘Large Manufacturing Food Businesses - Fats & Oils’ category, ‘Outstanding Performance in Food Safety’ for Kurkumbh plant in Maharashtra and ‘Strong Commitment in Food Safety’ for Kandla plant in Gujarat. This honor underscores Cargill’s dedication to stringent food safety protocols, superior quality control, and cutting-edge manufacturing practices. The award was presented by Hashmat Ali Yatoo, IAS, Commissioner of Food Safety and Drugs Administration in Jammu and Kashmir, Mr Minhaj Alam, IAS, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Dr Alka Rao, Advisor – Science, Standards & Regulations Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and Ms. Kavery Ganguly, Principal Lead, CII Food and Agriculture Centre of Excellence (FACE).

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Simon George, Managing Director, Cargill Food South Asia, said, "This recognition is a reflection of our team’s unwavering commitment to food safety and quality. At Cargill, we prioritize world-class practices to ensure that our products not only meet but exceed global food safety standards. The Kurkumbh and Kandla plants are a prime example of our efforts in automation, testing, and training, which work together to provide safe, high-quality food to our consumers. We remain dedicated to continuous improvement and innovation in food safety."

Mr. Sunil Nair, B2B Go-to-Market and R&D and Technical Services & Application Leader added, “We are proud to be recognized for our dedication to food safety excellence. The ‘Outstanding Performance in Food Safety’ Award not only highlights our rigorous standards—exemplified by the success of our Kurkumbh and Kandla plants—but also reinforces our role as a trusted partner in delivering safe, high-quality food solutions to our customers across India.”

The CII Food Safety Awards serve as a benchmark for excellence in food safety across various sectors of the food industry, including Beverages, Dairy, Bakery, Edible Oils, Ready-to-Eat Snacks, and more. The awards evaluate companies based on their adherence to rigorous food safety standards, leadership in implementing food safety measures, and compliance with regulatory and statutory guidelines. The assessment process includes detailed onsite evaluations by a team of experts, ensuring hat only the best practices in food safety are recognized.

Cargill’s Commitment to Food Safety

For over 35 years, Cargill has implemented robust food safety mechanisms in India, ensuring compliance through advanced infrastructure, trained personnel, and stringent quality control processes. The Kurkumbh plant, which was the recipient of this year’s award, is a prime example of Cargill's dedication to food safety. It features state-of-the-art infrastructure, in-house testing facilities, and automated packaging lines that minimize manual intervention, ensuring product safety at every stage.

Cargill’s Product Safety, Quality, and Regulatory Policy adheres to Indian food safety and international standards, ensuring product safety, quality, authenticity, and regulatory compliance. In addition, the company has a Continuous Improvement Production Excellence (CIPE) team that is dedicated to enhancing quality management programs and processes across all products and services. Cargill’s continuous focus on food safety has earned it multiple accolades at the CII Food Safety Awards.

In 2023, the company received two awards for ‘Significant Achievement in Food Safety’ for its Kurkumbh and Davangere plants. This year’s recognition for the Kurkumbh and Kandla plants further validates Cargill’s leadership in food safety and its continued commitment to excellence.

The CII Food Safety Award, with its emphasis on Food Safety Maturity Assessment, serves as a symbol of credibility and pride in the industry. It recognizes and celebrates the capacity-building efforts of organizations and promotes the adoption of internationally benchmarked food safety practices.

Photo Caption: Cargill Kurkumbh plant team at the CII Award for Food Safety 2024, New Delhi.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Launches ‘Hausla Talks’ – A Platform To Celebrate Bold Dreams And Relentless Determination

Kotak Mahindra Bank (“KMBL” / “Kotak”) announced the launch of ‘Hausla Talks’, a powerful platform to sharing real stories of ambition, courage and success.

Hausla Talks is a key pillar of Kotak’s new brand philosophy, ‘Hausla Hai Toh Ho Jayega’, reinforcing Kotak’s commitment to evolving as a Bank and establishing itself as the go-to financial services organisation for the Aspirational Indian.

As a challenger brand in the Indian BFSI sector, Kotak has always been guided by the ethos of dreaming big and acting with confidence. At a time when ambition drives progress in the country, the Hausla Talks platform will showcase extraordinary individuals—both Kotak customers and employees —who dared to dream big, face adversity head-on, and emerged victorious across all walks of life.

The inaugural episode features the Hausla Hero—Swati Bedekar speaking about breaking social and economic barriers to launch the Sakhi Project, providing biodegradable, low-cost sanitary napkins to rural women. The following episodes of ‘Hausla Talks’ celebrates Sirisha Raju and Kaamya Karthikeyan; each sharing their journey of overcoming challenges to achieve extraordinary success. Sirisha shares her story of defying small-town limitations to become a pilot while Kaamya highlights how endurance, patience, and trust helped her overcome financial challenges to become the youngest female to complete the Seven Summits challenge in 2024.

Kedarswamy Ravangave, Executive Vice President - Marketing, Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, “At Kotak, we believe that ambition, when met with the right support, can create extraordinary success stories. ‘Hausla Talks’ is a testament to that belief—spotlighting individuals who dared to dream big and had the resilience to turn those dreams into reality. Through this platform, we aim to fuel India’s unstoppable spirit, reaffirming our commitment to being the financial partner that empowers ambition at every stage."

With Hausla Talks, Kotak Mahindra Bank is not only celebrating stories of resilience but also reinforcing its role as a catalyst for India’s growth story. This initiative marks the beginning of a bold new chapter—one where ambition meets opportunity, and every aspirational Indian has the financial support to turn possibilities into reality.

Government of Karnataka And AIGF Launches India’s First Industry-Led Digital Detox Centre – ‘Beyond Screens’

~ Hon’ble Minister Priyank Kharge reaffirms commitment to promoting responsible digital consumption and well – being ~

~The initiative aims to combat digital addiction through structured interventions, awareness programs, and integration into mainstream healthcare~

In a groundbreaking move to promote responsible digital consumption and well-being, the Government of Karnataka and the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF) have taken a significant step forward in their Digital Detox Initiative – ‘Beyond Screens.’ Launched this month, the initiative marks India’s first industry-led effort to combat digital dependency through structured interventions and awareness programs.

Taking this vision forward, Hon’ble Minister for IT & BT, Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Government of Karnataka – Priyank Kharge, today inaugurated the ‘Beyond Screens’ Digital Detox Centre and official website, marking a crucial milestone in the fight against digital addiction. The Centre will serve as a dedicated hub for resources, counselling, and intervention programs aimed at fostering healthier digital habits.

Recognizing the urgent need for digital wellness solutions, the Government of Karnataka and AIGF have developed a strategic roadmap with clear, actionable objectives. ‘Beyond Screens’ serves as a comprehensive resource hub designed to assist individuals struggling with digital addiction.

With a strong focus on education, support, and empowerment, the initiative aims to provide structured solutions through short, medium, and long-term programs. The newly launched Digital Detox Centre and website will serve as a one-stop destination for individuals seeking guidance on responsible technology use and digital well-being.

The initiative is committed to:

·         Raising awareness about excessive digital usage and its impact.

·         Providing structured solutions for healthier digital habits.

·         Integrating digital detox programs into mainstream healthcare.

·         Developing research-driven strategies to support individuals and communities.

Minister Priyank Kharge, addressing the audience at GAFX 2025, reiterated the government’s commitment to digital well-being. He highlighted that “As a firm believer of balance in our digital lives, I always say, ‘sunlight before screen light.’ The ‘Beyond Screens’ initiative is a testament to our commitment to promoting responsible digital consumption and ensuring the well-being of our citizens. This initiative will address the often-ignored challenges of digital addiction by providing structured support, raising awareness and integrating digital wellness into mainstream healthcare”.

He further emphasized the importance of AIGF’s expertise in responsible gaming, adding, “With AIGF as our key partner, their expertise in responsible gaming will be invaluable in this effort. Whether it’s setting boundaries with your devices or learning to unplug without guilt, we are here to help every step of the way. This is a crucial step towards fostering a healthier relationship with technology, where our people can thrive both online and offline.”

As a leading industry body advocating responsible gaming and digital engagement, AIGF has played a crucial role in shaping the initiative. Roland Landers, CEO of AIGF, reaffirmed the federation’s commitment, stated, “As the oldest and largest industry body for online gaming in India, AIGF has always been committed to fostering a safe, responsible, and sustainable digital ecosystem. We are honoured to support the Government of Karnataka in launching Beyond Screens, a pioneering initiative in digital wellness. This is a great first step toward fostering a balanced and responsible approach to digital engagement.”

He further added, “The launch of the Digital Detox Initiative reinforces AIGF’s commitment to responsible gaming and mental well-being. This collaboration with the Government of Karnataka is a crucial step toward setting a benchmark for the digital industry.”

‘Beyond Screens’ is a partnership between the Department of Electronics, IT, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka (ITBT Karnataka) and the All India Gaming Federation (AIGF). The initiative is poised to evolve into a nationwide movement, integrating digital detox strategies into public health initiatives and empowering individuals to take charge of their digital well-being.

Rasna Launches World’s First Richer, Thicker And Tastier Powder Concentrate

~ Rasna Rich priced affordably at Rs 10 for 3 glasses ~

~ Heartwarming Ad Campaign to Launch New Product ~

Rasna, a beloved beverage of Indian families for generations, has launched a unique and novel product – ‘Rasna Rich’ – a powder concentrate that is not only rich in flavour, but full-bodied in texture and taste as well. It also brings in an unmatched value proposition, each Rs 10-sachet making 3 glasses of beverage at an effective price of Rs 3 per glass.

The focus flavour in the new product is the king of fruits, Mango. Mango is one of Rasna’s best-selling flavours and, therefore, a natural choice for its launch in the ‘Rasna Rich’ line-up. Mango is associated with premiumness and exclusivity, but with the new Rasna Rich Mango it will now be conveniently available throughout the year. The new Rasna Rich is also available in variety of other flavours like Orange, Lemon, Pineapple, Guava and Mixfruit.

Compared to other mango drinks priced between Rs10 and Rs20 per glass, Rasna Rich provides affordability, over and above its proven legacy of quality products and taste. True to its promise of good health and nutrition, Rasna Rich is fortified with 21 vitamins and minerals, adding to its product salience. The convenient sachet packaging makes it ideal for schools, picnics and travel.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Piruz Khambatta, Group Chairman, Rasna International, said: “Our new product embodies the aspirations of Indian consumers, an Atmanirbhar brand that delivers international quality at affordable prices. Rasna has always believed in offering products that are deep-rooted in Indian values, seamlessly blending nutrition, health and taste. With this launch, Rasna strengthens its presence in Indian households and takes further strides into the Rs 20,000-crore fruit drinks market, delivering world-class refreshment at unbeatable value.”

To increase awareness about the new and exciting ‘Rasna Rich’ beverage lineup pan-India, the company has also kicked off a heartwarming new ad campaign, just in time for Summer 2025. Conceptualized by leading advertising agency ‘The Womb’, the campaign taps into customer nostalgia by citing relatable, everyday moments that take viewers back to their childhood.

The advertisement beautifully captures the simple joy of two young boys making Rasna together while innocently waiting for their little sister to grow up and savor it with them. This beautiful ad film evokes emotions that connect people from Kalyan to Kolkata and Bathinda to Bengaluru. The new Rs 10 pack which makes 3 glasses is also called the “sharing pack” and is all about “sharing and enjoying good times with the loved ones”, and the campaign drives this core brand value, rightly positioning Rasna Rich as a drink meant to be made and shared together with family and friends.

The ad has been shot in 60-second, 35-second and 15-second formats, and has been released in eight Indian languages to ensure its nationwide reach. With this campaign, Rasna will strengthen its emotional connect with consumers, while redefining summer refreshment for a new generation.

Campaign link:

To amplify this exciting promotional campaign, Rasna has rolled out a dynamic 360-degree marketing strategy, spanning television, print, digital and on-ground activations. The brand has also roped in 10 top influencers to engage Gen Z audiences, alongside extensive in-store displays, sampling drives and direct consumer interactions.

About Rasna Pvt Ltd

Rasna is India’s most reputed FMCG business house and the No.1 family-owned brand sold in more than 60 countries. With 12 manufacturing plants across India and various certifications, including ISO-22000-2005, HACCP, HALAL, and FSSAI, Rasna boasts a robust distribution network featuring 26 depots, 200 super stockists, 5,000 stockists and 900 sales personnel, covering 1.8 million outlets across India.

Rasna has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Superior Taste Award (2008) from The International Taste and Quality Institute, Belgium, as well as recognition from Cannes Lions, Monde Selection, Master Brand, The World Brand Congress, and ITQI for superior taste and quality. Renowned for innovation in product development, marketing, and distribution, Rasna enjoys 100% brand recall and an 85% market share, making it a benchmark in the industry.

Website: https://rasnainternational.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rasnainternational/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rasna_international

X: https://x.com/rasnaindia

Youtube link- https://youtu.be/8okuAlHQJK8?feature=shared

Youtube link  - https://youtu.be/HzfpXDRA9M4?feature=shared