Archives June 2023

Mumbai,21st June 2023: Unacademy, India’s largest learning platform*, is proud to announce the outstanding performance of its Learners in the highly competitive JEE Advanced 2023. Unacademy Centres, within just a year of launch, has produced stellar results.

The results reflect Unacademy’s dedication to offering top-notch education and comprehensive guidance to aspiring engineering professionals. With an achievement of 11 All India Ranks (AIR) in the coveted Top 100, Unacademy has demonstrated its excellence in preparing learners for the most challenging engineering entrance examination.

5 Unacademy Learner also shine as Zonal Toppers in JEE Advanced 2023. Unacademy Learner Deshank Pratap through remarkable performance has secured an outstanding All India Rank 22 and a zonal rank 5 in the IIT Delhi zone. Among other notable achievers from Unacademy are Dhruv Jain who attained an All India Rank of 36, and a zonal rank 1 in the IIT Kharagpur zone, Shivanshu Kumar who secured an All India Rank of 42 and a zonal Rank 3 in the same zone, Nipun Goel who secured an All India Rank of 40, and Abhi Jain who secured an All India Rank 58. The stellar results also include Vivswan Savyasachi with an All India Rank 80 and a zonal rank 1 in the IIT Guwahati zone, and Vaibhav Singh with an All India Rank 100 with a zonal rank 2 in the IIT Kanpur zone.

More than 3000 learners under Unacademy’s guidance have qualified in JEE Advanced 2023, further highlighting the effectiveness of the comprehensive learning programs offered by Unacademy.

With its innovative teaching methodologies, expert Educators, and personalized learning approach, Unacademy has consistently empowered Learners to unlock their true potential and excel in competitive examinations. The remarkable performance in JEE Advanced 2023 reinforces Unacademy’s position as a trusted partner for quality education and comprehensive exam preparation.

New Delhi, 21st June 2023 Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon. Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Govt. of India and Mahindra Logistics, one of India’s largest integrated logistics solutions providers, unveiled a stirring book titled ‘Desh Chaalak’ at an event in New Delhi today. Authored by Ramesh Kumar, a prominent journalist and an industry veteran with a deep understanding of the driver community, the book serves as a tribute to the unsung hero community – the drivers of India.

‘Desh Chaalak’ acknowledges and honors the silent contribution of India’s drivers to the growth of the country. The book also highlights the life on the road for these drivers, and their trials and tribulations that they overcome in the multitude of journeys they undertake. Comprising a collection of 30 stories based on real-life experiences, ‘Desh Chaalak’ is a captivating account of their journey on the road.

Speaking at the book launch, Hon. Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, Shri Nitin Gadkari, expressed his admiration for the drivers of India and the vital role they play in the country’s economic progress. He stated, “As we gather today to launch the book ‘Desh Chaalak,’ I commend Mahindra Logistics for taking this initiative to honour these silent warriors of India. These tireless drivers are the true backbone of our nation, steering the country towards growth. With world-class roads and accompanying infrastructure, we are attempting to make the lives of these drivers better. ‘Desh Chaalak’ is a step in the right direction to make more people aware of the contributions made by the driver community for India”.

Mr. Ramesh Kumar, Author of the book ‘Desh Chaalak’ said, “This book touches upon an aspect of our nation that often remains overlooked. It is an attempt to direct this spotlight on the extraordinary working lives of India’s drivers and their untold stories. I am deeply grateful to Mahindra Logistics for their support in this endeavor, to bring these inspiring and emotional stories to life, and help bring attention to a community that deserves its due recognition”.

Mr. Rampraveen Swaminathan, Managing Director & CEO, Mahindra Logistics, said, “At Mahindra Logistics, we firmly believe that our drivers are not just the backbone of our operations but also the driving force behind the entire logistics industry. In recognition of their remarkable contribution, the book ‘Desh Chaalak’ serves as a heartfelt tribute to our drivers highlighting their resilience that keeps the wheels of the industry turning. The book stands as a symbol of our deep admiration and gratitude and aims to bring greater recognition to the drivers’ tireless efforts, ensuring that their indispensable contributions are acknowledged and valued by all “.

The launch event also witnessed Mahindra Logistics awarding scholarships to the children of drivers, further emphasizing their commitment to the welfare of the driver community.

Mahindra Logistics is dedicated to empowering communities by enhancing the livelihoods of their driver-partners, improving access to essential resources, and promoting hygiene and safety awareness. It consistently strives to exceed expectations in fostering equitable development within societies.

GIFT IFSC, 21st June 2023, NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) today unveiled a new and refreshed brand identity of GIFT Nifty as a part of full-scale transition of SGX Nifty to Gift Nifty from July 3, 2023. The new identity of Gift Nifty signifies the unique opportunity and new direction for the international investors to participate in India’s growth story to access Nifty products through NSE IX at GIFT City. The new look of Gift Nifty is aligned with the flagship index NIFTY 50, which reflects the growth story of Indian equity markets.

The unveiling of the new logo follows the recent announcement of full-scale operations of NSE IX-SGX Connect to start from July 3, 2023. This strategic initiative between NSE IX and SGX, enables Gift Nifty orders from SGX members to be routed to NSE IFSC for trading and execution with clearing and settlement through SGX Derivatives Clearing.

To begin with, market participants can access Gift Nifty 50, Gift Nifty Bank, Gift Nifty Financial Services and Gift Nifty IT derivative contracts on NSE IX and gradually other indices will be rolled out under Gift Nifty suite. These contracts are accessible for almost 21 hours, which overlaps Asia, Europe, and US trading hours. Gift Nifty offers a single pool of liquidity and venue to access USD denominated Nifty derivatives at NSE IX under the regulatory framework of International Financial Services Center Authority (IFSCA).

In addition, NSE IX also unveiled its new corporate brand identity evolving distinctly designed IX along with NSE to signify the ambition and vision of NSE International Exchange to be a leader in global capital market landscape.

Commenting on the occasion:

Shri Injeti Srinivas, Chairperson, IFSCA, said: “IFSCA aims to develop IFSC as global gateway for inbound and outbound requirement of the international financial services. Given the growing influence of international investors in India’s growth story, Gift Nifty plays a catalytic role to access broad representation of Indian equities. I take this opportunity to complement NSE IX on unveiling Gift Nifty brand identity and corporate identity.”

Mr. Tapan Ray, MD & Group CEO, GIFT City said: “GIFT City is becoming a leading Global Finance hub and destination of choice for investors across the world, with competitive tax structures, ease of business and world class infrastructure. Gift Nifty will help India to become a net exporter of financial services and achieve our Hon’ble prime minister’s vision to onshore the offshore. We congratulate NSE IX on this occasion and wish them a great success.

Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD and CEO, NSE said: “The new identity of Gift Nifty signifies the unique opportunity and new direction for the international investors to participate in India’s growth story to access Nifty products through NSE International Exchange at GIFT City. This brings us one step closer to the full-scale transition of SGX Nifty to Gift Nifty from July 3, 2023. Gift Nifty will be a catalyst in achieving Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision for GIFT City to become a price setter for largest traded instruments in the world.”

Shri V. Balasubramaniam, MD and CEO, NSE IX said: “GIFT Nifty offers global investors a single venue for the trading of USD denominated Nifty derivatives. This is an important milestone to begin the transformation of GIFT City financial landscape and make this a truly global IFSC. NSE IX also unveils its new corporate brand identity which signifies the ambition and vision of NSE International Exchange to be a leader in global capital market landscape.”

itel, a prominent mobile phone brand in India, is gearing up to unveil its highly anticipated feature phone series, itel Super Guru. This remarkable new line-up is poised to revolutionize the market by offering disruptive features that guarantee users unparalleled connectivity experiences and resilient, durable devices.

While the detailed specifications of the itel Super Guru are yet to be revealed, sources suggest that it will introduce an innovative feature in the form of UPI payments. Yes, you heard it right! Consumers will now be able to conveniently send and receive money through UPI123 Pay using their itel feature phones, even without the need for internet connection and GPRS.

Additionally, the device is expected to have a super strong build with a high metallic finish. As per the information available, The series will set a new standard for feature phones by showcasing exceptional durability in a sleek 9.8mm ultra-slim body with a large display. The series is going to excel in battery performance, boasting a 1900 mAh battery and a Super Battery mode that extends battery life for prolonged usage in his higher variant.

This latest addition to itel’s portfolio is designed to cater to the needs of consumers in the real Bharat, promising unmatched features and a premium user experience.

itel has already established itself as a preferred brand in the sub 8,000 segment by reporting the biggest proportion of repeat users among first-time handset buyers in the segment, according to a consumer survey conducted by Counterpoint Research. In the feature phone segment, itel is undisputed leader for three consecutive years and captures 38% market share in 1st quarter.

21st June 2023: PNB MetLife, one of India’s leading life insurance companies, has set a milestone by declaring the highest-ever bonus of INR 768.6 crore for eligible policyholders. This bonus is 29% higher than that of the previous year and is set to benefit 5.52 lakh policyholders. The announcement reaffirms PNB MetLife’s commitment to delivering financial security for its policyholders.

PNB MetLife has a strong track record of delivering bonuses to policyholders of participating products over the past 19 years, demonstrating its disciplined approach to investing for sustainable returns. PNB MetLife’s strong fund management capabilities and experience along with its rigorous risk management practices have made PMLI a preferred choice for those seeking long-term wealth creation.

Ashish Kumar Srivastava, MD & CEO, PNB MetLife, said, “The INR 768.6 crore bonus is the highest we have given out till date, and this is a testament to PNB MetLife’s robust financial performance, sound investment strategies, and efficient risk management practices. It highlights the company’s strong position and our ability to generate sustainable returns for our policyholders. This bonus will benefit approximately 5.5 lakh PNB MetLife policyholders and enable us to assist our clients in building a more secure and confident future.”

PNB MetLife continues to drive innovation in the insurance industry, leveraging advanced technologies and customer-centric solutions to meet the evolving needs of policyholders. The company remains committed to maintaining its leadership position, forging strong relationships with its customers, and creating a secure future for all its stakeholders.

NTT DATA, a digital business and IT services leader, and NLB Services, a leading technology and digital talent solutions provider, have recently released a comprehensive research report titled “Bridging the Skills Gap – Towards an Equal Workplace” that talks about women in STEM. In India, 62% of employers plan to hire more women working in STEM sectors in the upcoming fiscal year 2023–2024, according to the report. The report also highlights the expectations of women employees enrolled in STEM, highlighting the preferences of both married and unmarried women in each category.

The study surveyed 250 employers from various companies of 12 different sectors in 15 Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities. The study also surveyed 500 female employees from businesses across a range of sizes, industries, and cities.

As per the report, here are the top five expectations of women employees in STEM:

1. Flexible/Remote Work Policies: In today’s fast-paced world, offering flexible work options can enhance employee satisfaction, boost productivity, and attract a diverse talent pool.
   58% of married women prioritize flexibility in their work arrangements, allowing them to balance personal and professional commitments effectively. 43% of unmarried women consider flexible or remote work policies as a crucial factor when deciding to join a STEM organization.
2. Maternity/Paternity Policies: By implementing comprehensive maternity and paternity policies, STEM organizations can foster an inclusive and supportive environment for employees, allowing them to thrive both personally and professionally. 61% of married women value maternity and paternity policies that provide adequate support during the crucial stages of building a family and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 30% of unmarried women see maternity benefits as a critical consideration when evaluating potential employers.
3. Learning and Development: Employers that invest in training programs, mentorship opportunities, and professional development resources can attract and retain top female talent while nurturing their employees’ potential. 41% of married women choose continuous learning and development opportunities to enhance their skills and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in their field. 42% of unmarried women value ongoing learning and development initiatives for their career growth and job satisfaction.
4. Innovation: Creating an environment that encourages experimentation, rewards innovative ideas, and promotes collaboration can help companies harness the full potential of their female employees in STEM fields. 33% of married women seek workplaces that prioritize innovation, allowing them to contribute to groundbreaking projects and stay engaged in their work. 47% of unmarried women highly value organizations that foster an innovative culture, encouraging creative thinking and innovation.
5. Leadership Role Opportunities: To empower women in STEM, employers should provide clear pathways for advancement, mentorship programs, and leadership training to support their professional growth aspirations. 32% of married women aspire to participate in leadership roles within their organizations, seeking opportunities for growth, influence, and impact. While 17% of unmarried women express their interest in leadership positions, showing their ambition and desire for career advancement.

Understanding and meeting the expectations of women enrolled in STEM is crucial for organizations looking to attract, retain, and nurture top female talent. By offering flexible work policies, comprehensive maternity/paternity benefits, and learning and development initiatives while fostering innovation and creating leadership opportunities, employers can create an inclusive and supportive environment that benefits women employees and contributes to the overall success of the organization in the ever-evolving STEM landscape.

New Delhi, 21st June 2023, Cornea, a leading electronics manufacturer, has recently introduced its premium & Future of Entertainment WebOS TV which is packed with advanced features that takes the viewing experience brilliance at its finest.

Equipped with the latest 4K technology, the Cornea WebOS TV delivers crystal-clear picture quality with vivid colors and sharp details. Its ultra-thin design and bezel-less screen provide a seamless viewing experience and will elevate the viewing experience with cutting-edge & transform the living room with sleek sophistication.

The Cornea WebOS TV is available in 50,55,65 & 75-inch and starts at INR 28499. It comes with a user-friendly interface that runs on the popular WebOS operating system from where one can unleash the power of seamless screen sharing. Also, this enables one to easily access all the favorite streaming services and apps, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, among others. In addition to its superior performance and design, the Cornea WebOS TV is built to last. It features cutting-edge technology that ensures long-lasting durability and reliability.

Commenting on the same, Mr. Ankit Garg, Director, Cornea, ” We are highly delighted to introduce our new premium WebOS TV to the market. These televisions with the latest technology and premium features will deliver an incredible viewing experience. Whether one is watching movies, playing games, or streaming the desired shows, the Cornea WebOS TV will provide an unparalleled entertainment experience.”

This TV is operated through the Magic Remote, which is a very versatile remote control that allows for smooth and easy navigation. With its scroll button, one can easily browse through content, and with voice control, one can command the TV with voice. The air mouse feature is convenient for air gestures, making it easy to point and click. And with universal control, one can even use the magic remote to control other devices like cable boxes or Set-top-box.

The Cornea WebOS TV is available for purchase online on Amazon or from Official Cornea Website. With its impressive specifications and features, the Cornea WebOS TV is sure to set the standard for premium home entertainment.

Gurugram, 21st June 2023– Indian School of Hospitality (ISH), a premier hospitality institution in India, is thrilled to announce the signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ICEX Spain Trade and Investment. This partnership aims to evaluate and explore collaborations in hospitality education, gastronomy, and cultural exchange, reflecting both institutions’ commitment to excellence and innovation.

ICEX Spain Trade and Investment is a prominent entity under the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Tourism, and Trade, dedicated to internationally promoting Spanish businesses and culture. ICEX, through its Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of Spain in New Delhi, stands at the forefront of gastronomic diplomacy, showcasing Spain’s remarkable culinary diversity and gastronomic heritage.

This partnership heralds an era of boundless possibilities in the following domains:

1. Hospitality Education: ISH and ICEX will collaborate on programs that provide an immersive experience in Spanish gastronomy, foods, and wines, including tastings and presentations of Spanish pantry products.

2. Training Programs: Dedicated educational programs in Spanish gastronomy, wines, and food history will be developed and implemented, imparting in-depth knowledge and skills to the faculty and students of ISH.

3. Dissemination of ICEX Programs: ISH will champion ICEX programs and initiatives among its alums, forging a bridge for hospitality professionals to the plethora of opportunities ICEX offers.

4. Culinary Experiences: The Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of Spain in New Delhi will consider incorporating ISH’s culinary expertise in crafting authentic Indian culinary experiences at events, creating a gastronomic tapestry that intertwines Indian and Spanish cultures.

5. Exploration of Future Collaborations: ISH and ICEX remain committed to continually expanding their collaborative efforts in hospitality and gastronomical education.

The partnership will pave the way for an enriched curriculum and exposure to global best practices in hospitality and culinary arts for students and faculty at ISH. Additionally, it will drive cultural exchange between India and Spain and bolster economic activities via cross-border trade and investment in the hospitality and gastronomic sector.

Another significant advantage of the alliance includes enhanced access to international opportunities for ISH alums via ICEX’s comprehensive network.

Mr. Kunal Vasudeva, Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer of the Indian School of Hospitality, said, “This partnership with ICEX Spain Trade and Investment is not merely a collaboration; it is a fusion of cultures and an academic renaissance. The enriched curriculum, coupled with international insights, will forge professionals who are also ambassadors of cultural exchange. This collaboration with ICEX is a catalyst for empowering Indian students with a blend of heritage and global acumen. Together, we are navigating the confluence of tradition and innovation to redefine hospitality education. For parents, this signifies a golden opportunity for their children to embrace an education that harmoniously bridges cultures.

“This partnership with ISH marks a transformative journey with the Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) and opens new avenues for Spanish gastronomy in India. This collaboration will allow ISH students, who are destined to occupy leading positions in the gastronomic and hospitality sector in India and the world, to become ambassadors of Spanish gastronomy with a multiplier effect in the future. This long-term project aims to establish a solid and fruitful relationship with the ISH” stated Ms. Lucía Paternina Torme, Chief Economic and Commercial Counsellor, Embassy of Spain in New Delhi.

Mumbai21st June 2023 Simplilearn, a leading online bootcamp offering digital skills training, has published the findings of their 2023 State of Upskilling survey. The survey included a mix of individuals from various industries, focusing on upskilling and the skills in demand. The report highlights professionals’ expectations for 2023, their outlook on the impact of upskilling in their career growth trajectory, and the type of upskilling courses they are likely to take up this year.

The 2023 Consumer Survey indicates dynamic shifts in learner sentiments from last year’s. In 2022, 30% of respondents wished to pivot to a new career. This number has gone up to 41% in 2023, with more professionals looking for a career change in 2023. Similar changes are indicated when it comes to the method of upskilling. As per Simplilearn’s State of Upskilling 2022 survey, 59% of professionals took self-study courses, 33% of learners enrolled in part-time courses, and 51% earned skilled certifications. However, in 2023, regarding upskilling preferences, 51% of professionals said they prefer to enroll in part-time or online certifications. Only some opt for self-study (23%), open-source projects (12%), or full-time college enrollment (7%).

Sharing thoughts on the survey, Mr. Kashyap Dalal, Co-founder, and Chief Operating Officerof Simplilearn, said, “Our 2023 Consumer Survey results highlight that professionals continue to actively take up upskilling courses despite shifts in ways of working and as back-to-office norms return, globally. Either through online certifications or self-study, professionals are actively equipping themselves with relevant skills in the best ways possible. They understand the importance of upskilling and its positive impact on career growth. Confident of receiving better salaries and jobs or desired promotions at their existing workplaces, sharpened and new skills remain the strongest ammunition for professionals. Additionally, with the rise of generative AI and new digital economy tech, learners are keen to upskill in the same or allied fields.”

Insights from the Simplilearn 2023 Consumer Survey Report:

• Gender and Demographics: 49% of the respondents were from Tier 1 Indian cities

The survey comprised 71% males, 25% females, and 4% LGBTQA+, with 49% residing in Tier 1 Indian cities and 23% residing outside India.

• Occupation and Designation: 38% included individual contributors

Among respondents, 38% were individual contributors, 28% were managers, 17% were students, 9% were freelancers, 4% VPs or department heads, and 4% CXOs. The leading departments the respondents were from include IT – 34%, Marketing – 18%, Engineering – 15%, and Production – 10%.
Industry and workplace: 32% of the respondents were from Technology and Computers

Among respondents, leading industries included Technology and Computers – 32%, BFSI – 11%, Education – 11%, and Consumer Products & Services – 10%. 51% were working from home, hybrid – 27%, and work from office – 22%.
Upskilling and expectations from 2023: 95% said that upskilling will help in bolstering their career

51% of respondents enrolled in part-time or online certifications, 23% engaged in self-study, 12% participated in open-source projects, and 7% enrolled in college full-time. Data Science and Business Analytics were the most in-demand skills, followed by program and project management at 40%, AI & ML at 35%, and Cloud Computing and DevOps at 31%.
30% of the respondents believe that upskilling will help them to get a job with a new employer

Respondents feel that irrespective of the choice of upskilling method, 30% will receive jobs in new companies, 25% think that upskilling will give them new opportunities in their current workplace, 22% believe that they would receive a salary hike after upskilling, and 16% think that upskilling will help them get a desired promotion.

Top 4 in-demand skills

According to the survey, learners are most interested in upskilling in the following skills:

• Data science & business analytics – 41%
  Program & project management – 40%
  AI & ML – 35%
  Cloud computing & DevOps – 31%

Most Desired Skill Areas by Company Size:

• Small companies (up to 49 employees) listed Digital Marketing as the most desired skill. Those with more than 50 employees, Medium and large firms (up to 4,999 employees) sought Data Science & Business Analytics skills.
• Large firms of 5,000-9,999 equally desired Data Science & Business Analytics, Cloud Computing & DevOps, and Business Strategy & Product Management as top skills.
• Those with 10,000+ employees desired skills in Program & Project Management the most.

Most Demanded Skills in Each Industry – AI & ML skills are in most demand across sectors such as Agriculture, BFSI, Energy, Mining & Utilities and Media & Communications. Other skills in demand across sectors include:

• Agriculture: AI & ML, Software/Full Stack Development
• BFSI: Data Science & Business Analytics, AI & ML
• Consumer Products & Services: Data Science & Business Analytics, Business Strategy & Product Management, Digital Marketing
• Education: Data Science & Business Analytics, Software/Full Stack Development
• Energy, Mining & Utilities: AI & ML, Program & Project Management
• Government & Public Sector: Program & Project Management, Cyber Security
• Healthcare & Life Sciences: Program & Project Management, Business Strategy & Product Management
• Manufacturing, Automotive & Aerospace: Data Science & Business Analytics, Program & Project Management
• Media & Communications: AI & ML, Cyber Security, Digital Marketing, Program & Project Management
• Technology & Computers: Program & Project Management, Cloud Computing & DevOps

21st June 2023:mjunction Services Limited, India’s largest B2B e-commerce company, today organized the Special International Tea Day auction for the third year in a row, to celebrate the International Tea Day that falls on May 21st. A Tea Board of India initiative, this occasion was celebrated by all its stakeholders across India. On International Tea Day, producers pluck the best quality green leaf, process it, and put them up for sale during this Special Auction every year.

junction displayed a catalog of premium Assam CTC marks like Bahani, Narayanpur Panbarry, Tirual, Rungliting, Joya, Nagabari from Nagaland, and premium handcrafted teas from Diroibam, and Pabhojan. Pu’er Tea from Gauripur was also on offer. A total of 580 kgs of premium tea was sold at an average price of Rs 324/kg.

Gauripur PU’ER tea fetched Rs 9000 per kg, which is a record price in its category. Pu’er tea is a special type of tea, where green leaf is compressed and cured for a few years.

Mr Nilesh Divekar of Shangrila Enterprise who purchased the PU’ER tea, thanked junction for the support provided to them. He assured continued support to quality teas, especially artisan teas created with innovative ideas.Mr Jayant Jalan of Absolute Tea said, “Since its inception, Absolute Tea has been procuring quality tea from the states of Assam, Darjeeling and Arunachal Pradesh. The Assam CTC produced by Bahani and offered at Jorhat was of high quality. We have continued our legacy of paying a deserving price for the tea, which we intend to sell viaour website absolutely.in.”Director, Bahani Tea, also expressed his happiness on the prices being fetched in its CTC teas. He looked forward to more support from buyers in the coming days.

mjunction launched its e-marketplace for tea in 2020 in Jorhat of Assam. Its seller base is spread across the entire Northeast and buyers are spread all over India.Today’s event organised by mjunction elicited positive response from buyers and sellers alike.