Archives May 2023

Hyderabad, 19th May 2023: Telangana has become the first state in the country to launch a State Robotics Framework with a vision of “Creating a sustainable robotics ecosystem in Telangana that champions innovation, entrepreneurship, and research & development, positioning the state as a leader in the field of robotics.” This is the sixth framework in line being formulated and launched by the Emerging Technologies Wing of the ITE&C Department. The other frameworks launched were blockchain in 2018 (first in the country), Drones framework – in 2019 ( first in the country), 2020 AI ( first state in the country, NITI Aayog came up with AI for ALL strategy document), the Cloud Adoption Framework in 2021, and in 2022 SpaceTech Framework, the honourable minister launched it in Metaverse, a very unique launch. Thus, Telangana has become a pioneer in embracing emerging technologies and a role model for other states to emulate.

The Framework is a comprehensive roadmap that outlines the state’s vision for the development of the robotics ecosystem in the state and contributing to the growth of the industry in the country. The framework was developed by the Emerging Technologies Wing of the ITE&C Department in collaboration with the All India Robotics Association and inputs from academia, industry experts and stakeholders.

The framework focuses on leveraging robotics technology to drive growth and development across identified four key domains – agriculture, healthcare, industrial automation and consumer robotics. The key points in the framework are that the state will set up a Robo Park equipped with testing facilities, co-working options, and co-production/manufacturing options either at sites owned by the state or in partnership with the industry, academia, and incubators, at competitive rates. Additionally, the state will establish a world-class robotics accelerator to provide startups with the necessary incubation, infrastructure, authorization support, market insights, investor connections, and mentorship support.

In order to achieve the vision of the framework, the government has identified five key pillars: infrastructure access, business enablement, fostering research & innovation, human capital enhancement and responsible deployment. These pillars are critical components of the framework for promoting a vibrant and sustainable robotics industry in the state. To fulfil its vision, the state shall set up a separate body called the Telangana Robotics Innovation Center (TRIC) which shall be responsible for the implementation of this framework and will be the nodal point to implement the Key Pillars of the Framework.

At the occasion, the state also signed MoUs with five organizations, including academic institutions, industry associations, and incubators. They are IIT Hyderabad, ART PARK IISC, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL), AgHub (PJTSAU) and All India Robotics Association (AIRA). Overall, these partnerships aim to enhance the robotics ecosystem in Telangana and promote innovation, research, and growth in the field.

In addition, The state of Telangana is planning to organize a Global Robotics Summit to showcase its growing robotics ecosystem and attract investments from across the world. The summit will provide a platform for startups, researchers, and industry leaders to showcase their work, network with potential partners and investors, and explore new business opportunities. A poster for the summit was also launched at the event.

Launching the framework, Shri. K.T Rama Rao, Hon’ble Minister for IT, MA&UD, and Industries, Government of Telangana said, “As Telangana continues to strive towards technological advancements and development, the state is committed to embracing new technologies and promoting innovation across sectors, ensuring a better tomorrow for all. I’m confident that the identified four key focus domains and five key pillars in the framework will nurture and promote a vibrant and sustainable robotics industry in Telangana”

Shri. Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary ITE&C and Industries, Government of Telangana said, “We are confident that the launch of the framework will catalyze the growth of the robotics industry in Telangana and the country. We believe that the Telangana Robotics Innovation Center (TRIC) that will be set up soon will play a pivotal role in implementing the framework and fostering a sustainable robotics ecosystem in the state. The partnerships established will be our first step towards nurturing the robotics ecosystem in the state.”

Smt. Rama Devi Lanka, Director of Emerging Technologies, said, “ The launch of the Telangana Robotics Framework is a significant milestone in our efforts to foster a robust robotics industry in the state. The ET Wing has been working towards the development and adoption of emerging technologies, including robotics, and we are proud to have developed this framework. We firmly believe that robotics technology has immense potential to transform various sectors and drive growth and development in Telangana.”

By Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

Pune has been witnessing increasing inward migration over the years, thanks largely to the good job prospects, the city’s many high-grade educational institutions, and overall better livability than many other metros. Recent estimates peg Pune’s average annual population growth at 3% to 4%, and as of September 2021, the city’s population was about 3.13 million (31.3 lakhs).

Pune regularly attracts professionals and students from different parts of the country and even from abroad. One of the city’s major USPs is its thriving IT and IT-enabled services sector, as well as a massive manufacturing base, which contribute significantly to the influx of people seeking better career prospects.

The Homebuyer’s Quandary

The immediate difficult decision that new arrivals face is the one about housing. Depending on the sector they have found employment in and at what level, migrants may initially choose to rent if they are unsure about their long-term plans. Renting provides flexibility and requires a comparatively smaller financial commitment in the short term.

Once established in their work, they will invariably consider the next logical step – buying a home in Pune, which offers stability and long-term investment benefits, including capital appreciation. The next question is where buying a home makes more sense.

This is an important decision. It will impact the buyer at various levels beyond the immediate cost of buying a home, including the quality of life they will enjoy, the overall cost of living in the chosen area, and how well their investment will appreciate in value.

A Case for PCMC

In the broadest sense, Pune is divided into two major municipalities – the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). Native Puneris will often choose to live in PMC areas for natural reasons. The Pune Municipal Corporation was established in 1950 when it was formed as a local governing body for Pune. PMC governs the core areas of Pune city.

On the other hand, PCMC in the northwest of Pune city was established relatively later. It came into existence in 1982 when the industrial townships of Pimpri and Chinchwad were merged with nearby areas to form a separate municipal corporation. PMC primarily governs the older areas of Pune city, while PCMC governs the younger industrial and residential hub of PCMC.

This is important background for newly aspiring homebuyers to consider while choosing between the two regions. One obvious reason is that most people prefer to live close to their places of work. But it is also a question of whether a ‘younger’ area offers more benefits than an ‘older’ area. Without a doubt, the answer, in this case, is yes. Let’s examine why.

Superior Lifestyle Quotient

Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation offers several advantages over its older sibling, and for good reasons:

Cost of Living: PCMC generally offers a lower living cost than PMC. Not only because the housing prices and rentals are more affordable but also because PCMC has invested much more in infrastructure. Yes, there is a connection, which is my next point.

Transit Infrastructure: PCMC’s superior infrastructure investments have resulted in well-planned roads and better connectivity. Faster commutes to and from work result in significant household savings and fewer medical expenses for health problems caused by long commutes in polluted air. Which also brings me to my next point.

Less Traffic Congestion: PCMC witnesses far less traffic congestion than Pune’s core areas. The well-planned road networks, including the Pune-Mumbai Expressway and Pune-Nashik Highway, provide a smoother commuting experience. The Pune Metro in PCMC further enhances the transportation infrastructure and reduces road congestion.

Master-planned Development: In PCMC, all development is based on a master plan, providing an important related advantage. The well-thought-out manner in which residential complexes, commercial cent res, and entertainment hubs complement each other in PCMC results in a comfortable and convenient lifestyle for its citizens.
PCMC’s dedicated industrial zones and residential areas separate industrial activities from residential pockets, resulting in a more organized and livable environment.

PCMC has a reliable water supply and electricity distribution system. Constant investments are being made into uninterrupted water supply and reliable power infrastructure to enhance residents’ overall quality of life. The region also has ample green spaces, parks, and recreational facilities for residents.

Areas like Pimpri Chinchwad Science Park, Auto Cluster Exhibition Center, and various sports complexes provide outdoor and leisure opportunities. In fact, PCMC is also textbook case of commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability because of the focus on creating a sustainable and inclusive environment by promoting green spaces, cycling tracks, and pedestrian-friendly zones.

Education: PCMC is home to renowned educational institutions across various streams, including engineering, management, and medicine. These institutions ensure access to quality education and provide a steady funnel of high-grade workforce to PCMC’s various employment hubs.

Employment Opportunities: PCMC is a major industrial and employment hub, hosting numerous manufacturing units, IT parks, and business cent res. These industries provide countless job opportunities at all levels and contribute to the region’s thriving economy.

Let me elaborate on this point since it deserves to be highlighted.

Employment Mecca

PCMC is home to several prominent Infotech parks and IT hubs, making it Pune’s most definitive IT and business destination. The region’s IT/ITeS repertoire includes the Rajiv Gandhi IT Park in Hinjewadi, which houses numerous IT and software companies, including multinational corporations, startups, and service providers.

The International Tech Park, also located in Hinjewadi, accommodates a wide range of IT and software companies who choose it for its state-of-the-art infrastructure, office spaces, and facilities.

The MIDC IT Park in Bhosari is an industrial area that includes IT and software companies alongside other industries. Its massive ecosystem houses multiple sectors, including IT, manufacturing, and engineering.

On the industrial manufacturing side, the MIDC (Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation) belt in PCMC comprises multiple industrial zones and areas, including the Pimpri-Chinchwad Industrial Area, Chinchwad Gaon Industrial Area, Bhosari Industrial Area, Chakan Industrial Area, and Talegaon Industrial Area.

These areas are spread across different parts of PCMC and accommodate various industries, including manufacturing, engineering, automotive, pharmaceuticals, IT, and more. The job opportunities are limitless.

Taking a Smart Homebuying Call

All of the above is just the tip of the iceberg for homebuyers. Based on its track record for good civic governance and superior infrastructure, PCMC has been selected as a Smart City under the Smart Cities Mission.

This provides a clear road map of PCMC’s future potential since the Smart City tag entails the implementation of various smart and sustainable initiatives, including using technology for efficient governance, improved infrastructure, and enhanced quality of life for residents.

Undoubtedly, individual preferences on where to buy a home vary, and many people still prefer living in the core areas of Pune for various reasons. However, new arrivals to the city have a clear advantage – they have no preconceptions or cultural biases. Thus, they are well-placed to make informed, logical choices on where they should buy their homes.

Mumbai,19th May 2023 Mangoes have always been a summer staple in India, but this year, the country’s love affair with the fruit is taking on a new dimension. As consumers increasingly turn to online platforms for their grocery needs, mangoes are emerging as a popular item on Q-commerce apps. Leading 10-Min grocery delivery service Zepto has seen a massive uptake among mango lovers this year with over INR 25 crore worth of the fruit being sold in just the month of April. And the demand continues to be ripe in May as well.

As per Zepto’s data, here are some insights on how consumers are increasingly showing their affinity towards mangoes this season:

Sales reaching new heights

Temperatures are soaring and so are Indians’ cravings for mangoes – as many as INR 60 lakh worth of Mangoes were sold on a single day
Raw mangoes are an Indian kitchen staple, especially in summer. Be it making a big batch of achaar (pickle) to last throughout the year or Kairi Panna (Raw Mango juice) to beat the heat, the sour fruit has seen increasing demand on Zepto with a total of INR 25 lakh worth of raw mangoes sold so far

Different varieties catering to diverse taste buds:

Alphonso mangoes from Ratnagiri have the most admirers in the markets of Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi
Dominant in the Western markets, Alphonso mangoes were the most sold variant with a 30% share of total Mango sales on Zepto. Bainganpalli, which is produced in Andhra Pradesh, was sold widely in the southern cities with 25% of sales, while Kesar was the third most in-demand category of Mangoes at 15%
Fresh mango juice is a refreshing beverage everyone loves to consume in summer. Bainganpalli, the most common variety used to make mango juice, has also been in high demand on Zepto

Zepto sold most varieties of Mango online locally sourced from various parts of India from over 1,000 farmers

Top sources for each variety of mangoes are: Ratnagiri and Devgad for Alphonsoes; Jalna & Junagarh for Kesar mangoes Anantapur, Chittor, Kolhapur for the Badami variety Pallakad for Lalbagh, Krishnagiri, Ramnagar for Totapuri); Malihabad, Sahrangpur, Sitapur, Meerut for Dasheri; Banaras, Balrampur for Chausa and Barasaat for Malda
Zepto fulfills its commitment to quality by offering only carbide-free, naturally ripened mangoes. Each variety is accompanied by a certification on the app to ensure transparency

Srinibas Swain, Senior Vice President and Business Head for Zepto’s Fresh Category said, “Fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the fastest-growing and critical categories on Zepto, covering over 50% of shopper baskets. The soaring sales of mangoes and other seasonal fruits and veggies throughout the year are a testament to the immense levels of trust we’ve been able to build in one of the most sensitive grocery categories in India. We are proud to build one of India’s richest and most sustainable FnV supply-chain in partnership with our farmer community.”

With a dedicated section on the app, customers can choose from a wide variety of mangoes – from the fragrant and sweet Alphonso to the tangy Totapuri.

This message contains information which may be confidential and privileged. Unless you are the intended recipient (or authorized to receive this message for the intended recipient), you may not use, copy, disseminate or disclose to anyone the message or any information contained in the message. If you have received the message in error, please advise the sender by reply e-mail, and delete the message. Thank you very much.

India,19th May 2023In view of the current constantly evolving market scenario, India’s leading integrated human resource solutions organization, Genius Consultants Ltd. conducted a survey to evaluate trends predicted in Hiring, Compensation and Attrition for the fiscal year 2023-24.

77% of India Inc. predicts hiring trends to comprise of both replacement hiring and new position hiring in FY 2023-24. The South and West of India will predictively have maximum hiring ratios in this financial year, as specified by 33.30% of participants. The prime focus for experience levels during hiring is agreed by 36.06% to be 4 to 7 years on an average. Merely 9% of individuals deem that employees with 13 years and above experience are top candidates while hiring.

According to this research survey, a majority of 70% participants believe that equal hiring of male and female candidates will be preferred by their organization. 27% maintain that male candidates will be chosen over female and 3% vice versa. The projected increase in manpower strength has been noted to be 15% and above by 36.20% participants. On the contrary, 27.30% partakers are of the opinion that there will be no increase in the same.

Maximum of survey contributors hold that job portals will be the most prioritized candidate sourcing avenue while hiring this year. This is backed by AI technology-based apps and websites, campus hiring and consultants. Correspondingly, candidates who hold an MBA degree will be prioritized by the companies of 41.50% survey participants. IT, Electrical and automation engineering candidates follow next in order.

The survey findings reveal lower attrition rates. 50% of participants indicated that the anticipated level of attrition for their organization for this year would be less than 5%, whilst 40% consider it to be between 5-10%. However, it is noted that 84% of participants agreed on junior employees being the most susceptible to attrition and a mere 11% of senior employees encounter the same.

The widespread survey also observed that 63.60% individuals regard background verification checks for filling up key positions in their organization as extremely crucial, and the remaining 36.40% suggested that it is of moderate importance. The maximum attrition ratio is foreseeable in South India by 44.40% individuals, while 22.20% project North and West zones, respectively to have these highest ratios. Similarly, barely 11.20% participants suppose the East of the country will have ultimate ratios.

Another key aspect reflected in the survey is based on the levels of employees who will experience higher increment ranges for their organization. 57.80% of people are of the view that mid-level employees will benefit the most with increments. On the other hand, only 21.10% are convinced that senior and junior level employees will receive significant increments.

For FY 23-34, the projected range of increment for one’s company is believed by 54.50% of participants to be between 5-7%. The West of India will witness the highest increment ratio, as expected by 36.40% people. This will be followed by the South, North and East zones.

Commenting on the survey, Mr. R P Yadav, Chairman and Managing Director, Genius Consultants Ltd said, “Substantial changes in work cultures have played a major role in lowering attrition rates. This implies that factors such as flexible working hours, standard increments, appreciation of work and flat organizational structures have contributed majorly to employee retention. The overall market condition is favorable and as a result, the Indian job market will remarkably improve as organizations strive for the most qualified candidates.”

The survey was floated from 12th March to 15th April 2023. Its Statistics are based on the feedback received from all sectors through Direct Mails to all Clients & Senior Dignitaries, Google Free Sites (Survey Monkey, Type form, Google forms, etc.) and LinkedIn Direct Messaging to Senior Dignitaries & CXO Levels of Organizations.

Punjab,19th May 2023 It was a remarkable moment for Bharti Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Bharti Enterprises, as the students of Satya Bharti Adarsh Senior Secondary Schools in rural Punjab scored well in Class 12th and 10th CBSE Board Examination.

The overall pass percentage of 89.3% for 12th and 89.4% for 10th these underprivileged students from the rural heartlands of Punjab has proven that they are no less than anyone if given the right environment and support.

It was a proud moment for Bharti Foundation as the girl students across five Satya Bharti Adarsh Senior Secondary Schools in Punjab scored the top three positions for 12th and 10th. In Class 12th, Mehakdeep Bawa from Jhaneri, Sangrur and Anmolpreet Kaur from Sherpurkalan, Ludhiana scored the highest, 96.6% followed by Shakina from Rauni, Ludhiana scored 94.8%. In Class 10th, Shehnaj Khan from Rauni, Ludhiana was declared topper with 96.6% followed by Arshpreet Kaur with 95.2% and Amandeep Kaur at the third position with 94%, both from Sherpur Kalan, Ludhiana.

Speaking on the occasion Ms. Mamta Saikia, Chief Executive Officer, Bharti Foundation said “The success of students from Satya Bharti Adarsh Senior Secondary Schools is special as many of them are coming from challenging backgrounds of rural Punjab. The results have reaffirmed the Foundation’s belief that holistic development of children can lead to positive outcomes in many folds. And this year it is even more special as our girl students have continued to make the school and their community proud with their outstanding performance in CBSE board examination. I would like to congratulate the students and teachers for the successful outcome and thank the community and Government of Punjab for consistently supporting and motivating our schools.”

Satya Bharti School children come from marginalized communities and their achievements especially that of girls are special to the surrounding communities. Considering the fact that most of these students have withstood various social and economic pressures but despite the adversities, the children have proved their potential in the board examination. It is a dream come true to most of them and their family members as they stand as exemplars in the community.

These Schools provide opportunities for holistic development of children in rural India. The school curriculum has been designed weaving in innovative teaching methodologies for effective understanding of concepts by the children. Both classroom as well as out-of-class activities encompass interventions that help students develop attitudes, values and skills for life. While innovative Teaching Learning Material (TLM) enhances the classroom experience, special programs like The Physical Education Curriculum (PEC) makes the outdoor learning more meaningful along with computer aided learning, digital classrooms and advanced technology labs. Currently 173 Satya Bharti Schools are operational across the villages of Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Of the 173 schools, five schools are senior secondary schools run in public private partnership mode under Punjab Government’s Adarsh Scheme.

Vidisha,19th May 2023 Re-emphasizing the need to build a culture of safe riding habits in India, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) took forward its National Road Safety Awareness Campaign in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh.

Road Safety is a global priority for Honda. Through this three-day camp at Government Girls College in Vidisha, HMSI spread awareness on safe riding practices to more than 2500 college students and staff members. HMSI’s road safety instructors utilized age-appropriate road safety learning programs to enhance the retention of road safety awareness among all.

Speaking on HMSI’s commitment towards building a collision-free India, Mr. Vinay Dhingra – Senior Director, HR, Admin, IT & Corporate Affairs, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India said, “Road safety education is essential for developing a road safety mindset. HMSI has been conducting a Road safety awareness campaign to develop more responsible road users across the country. With this campaign, we aim to cultivate the right road safety habits amongst the new and upcoming riders as well as help them in understanding the importance of using the roads safely.”

HMSI’s National Road Safety Awareness program made learning fun yet scientific through:

1. SCIENTIFICALLY DEVISED LEARNING MODULE: Honda’s skilled instructors set the foundation with theory sessions on road signs & markings, driver’s duties on road, riding gear & posture explanation and safe riding etiquettes.

2. PRACTICAL LEARNING: A special training activity on Honda’s virtual riding simulator was executed for all to experience over 100 possible dangers on road before actual riding.

3. INTERACTIVE SESSION: Participants were given danger prediction training known as Kiken Yosoku Training (KYT) which helps in enhancing rider/driver’s sensitivity to danger and ensures safe driving behaviour on roads.

4. EXISTING DRIVERS HONING RIDING SKILLS: Students & school staff members who are already existing riders tested & honed their riding skills through slow riding activities and riding on narrow planks.

5. LEARNING IN A FUN WAY: To ensure that the young students could learn more about road safety, Honda also conducted fun educational activities like road safety games and quizzes on daily basis.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s CSR Commitment towards Road Safety:

For Honda globally, road safety comes first. As announced in April 2021, “Honda will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050”. Fulfilling its corporate social responsibility (CSR), HMSI has been promoting road safety in India since its start in 2001. Working towards the realization of Honda’s global safety vision, today HMSI’s road safety awareness initiative has already spread to more than 50 lac Indians. Its team of skilled safety instructors conducts daily programs at its 10 adopted traffic parks across India and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC).

Not only this, all of HMSI’s 1000+ dealerships across India spread road safety awareness. HMSI’s proprietary virtual riding simulator increases the risk-prediction ability of riders; while new customers too are given predelivery safety advice (PDSA) before they start riding at every dealership across India.

Additionally, to ensure that learning does not stop in the new normal, HMSI started the digital road safety education initiative – Honda Road Safety E-Gurukul. Since its start in May’20, this initiative has sensitized more than 8 Lac Indians on the importance of being aware & responsible road users.

India,19th May 2023 Happiest Minds Technologies Limited (NSE: HAPPSTMNDS), a ‘Born Digital . Born Agile’, Mindful IT Company, today announced that it has been conferred with the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) Exports & Excellence Special Jury Award Promising Debutant Indian Category. The award is presented in recognition of contributions made by the STP/IT units in exports, employment generation, innovation, and boosting the overall economy and prosperity of the State of Odisha. The award ceremony was organized by STPI, part of Transforming Odisha Conclave 2023, the Economic Times & co-hosted by the E & IT Department, Government of Odisha, on May 11, 2023, at Hotel Taj Vivanta, Bhubaneswar.

STPI, an autonomous society under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Govt. of India, has been set up with a distinct focus on boosting Software export from the country. STPI-Bhubaneswar has played a seminal role in promoting IT/ITeS exports from the region by boosting tech entrepreneurship and creating employment opportunities for the local youth. STPI-Bhubaneswar was set up in 1990 and has operational centers at Berhampur, Rourkela, Patna, Ranchi, and Deoghar.

Mr. Venkatraman Narayanan, MD & CFO, Happiest Minds Technologies, said, “We are excited to receive the STPI Exports & Excellence Awards within the first year of starting operations in the State. Odisha is a regional tech hub with a large talent pool, supported by a business-friendly Government, making it a preferred location for us.”

In 2022, Happiest Minds announced its expansion plans in Odisha with a new software Development Centre at Fortune Towers in Bhubaneswar, taking forward its long-term investment plans for further expansion in the state in alignment with the Make in Odisha focus of the state government.

Designed for perpetuity, Happiest Minds is recognized among India’s Top 10 ‘India’s Best Workplaces™ in Health and Wellness 2022, and Top 50 India’s Best Workplaces for Building a Culture of Innovation by All™ 2023 by the Great Place to Work® Institute. The company has also won the prestigious Golden Peacock Award for Excellence in Corporate Governance 2022.

Mumbai,19th May 2023 – BPCL, a leading player in the energy industry, has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Aspen Technology Inc., USA. This partnership aims to integrate Aspen Tech’s process simulation solution with BPCL’s BPMARRK® software, enabling the generation of complete assay data within a fraction of the time it would traditionally take using laboratory methods. Assay, a comprehensive chemical analysis of crude oil, plays a vital role in predicting the volume and quality of refined products resulting from refining processes.

The groundbreaking BPMARRK® technology predicts a detailed Crude Oil Assay for any unknown crude oil within an impressive timeframe of 2 to 5 minutes, utilizing just four physical parameters as input. By providing comprehensive crude characteristics, the tool empowers refiners to anticipate the volume and quality of refined products with utmost accuracy.

During the MOU signing event, BPCL also unveiled K Model®, an innovative web-based software that enables swift and precise prediction of crude oil blend compatibility and optimization for any number of crude oils within minutes. K Model® empowers refiners to select the most suitable crude oil blend based on economics, availability, and processing feasibility in real-time. This allows for simultaneous evaluation of multiple blend options, enabling optimal decision-making.

Mr. Sanjay Khanna, Director (Refineries), BPCL, delivered a remote address to the attending audience. In his speech, he stated that, “Refiners often process mix of crude oils, for which accurate assay is not available on real-time basis. Variations in crude quality as well as lack of reliable crude assay information makes the task of real-time optimization extremely challenging if not impossible. BPMARRK® generates the entire assay within one hour as compared to several weeks through conventional laboratory methods, and it predicts detailed Crude Oil Assay with more than 500 data information of any unknown crude oil within 2-5 minutes making it extremely useful for real-time applications.”

Further, Dr. Ravi Kumar V., Head (R&D), BPCL said, “BPMARRK® will benefit our community of users with faster and more accurate decision-making for the characterization of crudes and maximize the refinery profitability.”

Sunil Patil, Senior Director, Solution Consulting at AspenTech, said: “AspenTech is pleased to expand its long-standing partnership with BPCL to ensure operational excellence and generate sustainability advances from more informed feedstock selections and value additions to its accurate processing in crude distillation units. In addition, the integrated solution will enable real-time decisions in response to changing operating conditions.”

Combining the power of BPMARRK® with Aspen Technology’s digital twin models, this collaboration is set to revolutionize crude oil sourcing and real-time optimization. The integrated solution can be seamlessly implemented in any refinery configuration, empowering real-time applications across the industry.

K Model® – another major initiative from BPCL – brings unique capabilities in predicting crude oil blend compatibility, thereby significantly impacting profit margins for refiners dealing with large crude mix parcels. Refiners processing mix parcels comprising 4 to 10 crude oils from different sources will find K Model® indispensable, as it allows for the selection of crude mix parcels with more constituents, ultimately increasing overall profitability.

BPCL remains committed to adopting cutting-edge technology solutions to enhance refinery operations, ensuring optimal performance, profitability, and environmental responsibility. The integration of K Model® and BPMARRK® digital twin models in Aspen online interfaces marks a transformative milestone in crude oil sourcing and real-time optimization.

Pune(S.N): Under the leadership and guidance of the Moon Man of India, Padma Shri Awardee and former Director of Indian Space Research Organization’s Satellite Centre Dr Mylswamy Annadurai, and in collaboration with UAE-based Edutech4Space, a pioneer in the field of space technology education, BITS Pilani Dubai Campus (BPDC), one of the UAE’s leading technology and engineering universities has recently launched and tested 5 Pico Satellites using Drone Satellite Launch Vehicle (DSLV) at Sanad Academy, Dubai. This effort marks a significant first step towards Project MAHASAT.

Students were thrilled as the Pico Satellites started transmitting real time data of temperature, humidity, pressure, air quality, UV intensity, and orientation. The data were projected on a large smart board for the visitors, giving them the ambience of a mission control centre.

Present at the launch were dignitaries from the UAE, Chief Guest, Dr. Eesa Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai, Dr. Srinivasan Madapusi, Director of BPDC, faculty members and students of BPDC.

A team of 30 undergraduate students from BPDC studying in diverse streams such as Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology etc came together and managed to launch the Pico Satellites within 6 weeks of the announcement of Project MAHASAT.

Dr Annadurai who is overseeing the Project MAHASAT and guiding BPDC students said, “With the emergence of advancements in space technology, availability of trained manpower is going to be crucial. A very concrete academic plan has been devised wherein students of BPDC will be trained to make significant contributions in the field of Space technology of UAE and India. The university will also have its own Ground Station in near future which will enable students to communicate with their satellites, collect data, analyse it, and create predictions on weather, pollution levels, disaster management etc.”

Speaking at the launch Dr. Madapusi said, “Pico Satellites are the future of space exploration, and they’re already making waves in the classrooms across the world. While their low cost and relatively quick turnaround time makes them invaluable from an education perspective, they also have the power to engage students in a project from its initial paper design to building and testing to launch. Further, this is an excellent training ground for developing interdisciplinary skills and systems level thinking that are critical for the future. Through this hands-on experience in development, management, and mission training, BPDC is giving next-generation scientists a chance to learn valuable skills that will forge UAE’s plans to become the regional hub for commercial space activities and advanced research and development”.

Ms. Shrisudha Viswanathan, Founder & CEO of Edutech4Space, said, “We had an intensive training with upcoming engineers & future scientists of BPDC from the time we started the project MAHASAT. Using Drone Satellite Launch Vehicle (DSLV) to carry the 5 Pico Satellites to an altitude of 100 meters is a unique attempt in GCC. With this success we are now geared to move for Phase 2 which is, ground station installation at BPDC before we finally build the Engineering model and flight model of cubesat.”

Echoing the excitement of the team, Samarth Kalpesh Kumar Brahmbhatt, 2nd Year Electronics student of BPDC said, “Being a part of this team has been a whole new and an amazing opportunity of learning. Creating the processor of this satellite was my favorite part and made me feel like I am a space scientist. We are grateful for being given an opportunity to participate in this; it has been an amazing experience so far. I am truly thankful to BPDC and Edutech4Space.”

Another team member, Hansa Kannan, a 1st-year Biotech Engineering student of BPDC said “During the span of six weeks, I have been immersed in a realm of science that has completely transformed my perspective. It has been an incredible journey, and I am truly grateful to BPDC for igniting my passion and providing me with invaluable guidance to pursue my aspirations and dreams.”

Bengaluru, 19th May 2023: Myntra, India’s leading destination for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, has introduced a revolutionary feature on the platform, called ‘My Stylist’, an AI powered end-to-end automated personal style guide for its customers. This unique concept is set to revolutionize shopping for fashion and lifestyle at large, with the digital style assistant recommending the right outfits and suggesting a complete look to the users. Ahead of the 18th edition of the highly-anticipated End of Reason Sale (EORS), its biannual fashion event, Myntra is all set to cater to the outfit styling aspirations of shoppers like never before and taking fashion to the next level with this next-gen product discovery and purchasing feature.

‘My Stylist’ has been created to tackle the daunting task of putting together the perfect outfit. Styling requires a deep understanding of a broad range of properties including colour, shape, pattern and fabric, along with awareness of current fashion trends and an individual’s style preferences, to be able to get that perfect outfit. ‘My Stylist’ fulfills these requirements of customers in a way that is scalable, automated, customisable and in real-time. ‘My Stylist’ utilizes Artificial Intelligence to offer customers complete shoppable outfit recommendations based on four different factors: uploaded images from their offline wardrobes, their purchase history on the app, browsing history on the app, and what’s currently trending on the platform, thus giving instant access to styling options and enhancing their shopping experience, making it visual, fun and instantly gratifying.

The pioneering product has been developed in-house and will be unique to the platform, while also being a one-of-its-kind offering at this scale in the Indian e-commerce fashion ecosystem. The feature throws recommendations from ~4.5 lakh styles from the fashion and lifestyle categories currently, which includes all topwear, bottomwear, footwear and accessories. Since the launch of the feature, ‘My Stylist’ has witnessed good adoption. It is currently the highest used feature on the floating action button or ‘M-Explore’ on the homepage of the app, with a high engagement rate and click through rate (CTR) of over 65%. The company expects nearly ~80% of its customers to engage with recommendations from ‘My Stylist’ feature on trial by the end of this year.

How customers can use ‘My Stylist’

For customers who have shopped before on Myntra, My Stylist helps them find and shop for a complete look based on any apparel product they bought recently on the app, recently browsed products, or popular outfits on the platform based on which outfits are generating maximum engagement from users. For new customers, the feature also enables them to upload images of any product from their offline wardrobe, and get pairing ideas. New and existing users can also play around with the feature by taking a picture or uploading an image from their phone gallery of any offline product from their wardrobe and checking out pairing ideas to complete an outfit. The feature lets users ‘shop the entire look’ at the click of a button.

The Tech Behind My Stylist

Myntra’s in-house artificial intelligence (AI) technology, machine learning (ML) models and computer vision algorithms, along with expertise of subject matter experts in curation and styling, is used to power My Stylist’s ‘Fashion Object Detection’, ‘Image Search’, and ‘Outfit Recommendations’ features. These aspects use an AI algorithm that taps into the platform’s catalogue data via deep convolutional neural networks and is also trained using a Bi-LTSM model that expands dataset from Myntra’s catalogue, which enables the feature to handle a high-volume of requests.

Introducing the ‘My Stylist’ feature, Raghu Krishnananda, Chief Product and Technology Officer, Myntra, said, “ The launch of ‘My Stylist’ takes our commitment of democratising fashion using technology, a notch higher! Powered by machine learning and AI-based technology, this first-of-its-kind innovation at scale in the fashion space in India, is poised to further take the customers’ shopping experience to the next level by recommending looks with an understanding of fashion. Our team of experts has worked tirelessly to ensure that this feature is user-friendly, and intuitive, and from what we have gathered since the launch, we are confident that our customers all across will love to have access to this expert stylist at their fingertips through the much loved Myntra app.”

Roadmap for ‘My Stylist’

The feature currently covers the fashion and lifestyle segments, with plans in the pipeline to include other categories including beauty and an increased number of styles as well. Myntra also plans to include elements like ‘Your Digital Wardrobe’ and ‘Save the Look’, along with additional customizable user options, which consider factors like trends, age, gender, body type, and personal style, in subsequent phases.

Users can access ‘My Stylist’ via a floating action button on Myntra’s homepage, with banners and picture-in-picture videos informing them about the same.