Archives December 2023

14th December 2023, New York / New Delhi Global AI (Artificial Intelligence) Thought leader and Tech. Analyst Mr Sumant Parimal predicted about ‘AI for All’ four years back while publishing his insights in Forbes Global AI Experts Panel in year 2019, and now his prediction is turning into a reality as Indian PM Mr Narendra Modi has announced that his Govt. shall be ensuring ‘AI for All’ and further announced a national AI Mission for achieving the same while inaugurating GPAI Summit 2023 at New Delhi.

“It was heartening to listen PM Modi inaugural speech at Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit 2023 where Primer Minister has given a call for ‘AI for All’ in India and also announced an inclusive AI Mission of Govt. of India which shall be helpful in achieving this ‘AI for All’ call. It was a moment of great satisfaction for me personally when PM Modi picked up ‘AI for All’ under his Govt.’s agenda for rolling out and implementation in India, as four years back when I predicted ‘AI for All’ then at the core of this thought leadership was to make AI available for the benefits of all in order to enhance overall development and growth of the nations and its people” said Mr Sumant Parimal, Chief Analyst of 5 Jewels Research.

While elaborating on his thought leadership for ‘AI for All’ Mr Sumant Parimal further said “AI for All means empowering all by utilizing innovative and productive powers of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technologies. AI for All to ensure that people’s incomes goes up, people’s safety and security gets better, people’s health and wellness gets enhanced, people’s learning and creativity gets improved, people’s productivity and efficiency goes up and various new opportunities also gets opened up for the people. In most populus country like India, AI and its democratization through AI for All is going to be a game changer for achieving faster economic growth of the country which shall further enable Govt. of India’s mission to become a developed country by 2047. Hence for India, ‘AI for All’ means giving aspirations and enabling those aspirations to millions of people of India”.

“I am happy to note that Indian Govt. has now taken up a lead in propelling idea of AI for All under the visionary leadership of PM Modi, its now time to expect similar plans in line with Indian Govt. plan of ‘AI for All’ to be adopted by various nations and trade bodies around the World. It is important to ensure that safe and responsible AI For All at everywhere to be made available by adopting holistic and inclusive AI Tech. innovation and adoption frameworks” Mr Sumant adds further in his statement.

Due to his unique thought leadership on AI and AI For All, Sumant Parimal was recognized as top most AI thought leader and expert in the Global AI Experts panel of Forbes , during year 2019-20.

MiniKlub, India’s foremost kidswear brand, proudly announces the inauguration of its second store in Trivandrum, further solidifying its commitment to providing stylish and high-quality clothing for children. This new addition to the MiniKlub family marks a significant milestone in the brand’s expansion strategy and aims to bring the latest trends and kid-friendly fashion to families in Trivandrum and its surrounding areas.

The new MiniKlub store, strategically located in Lulu Mall, Thiruvananthapuram offers a vibrant and engaging shopping environment where parents can explore a wide array of trendy and comfortable clothing options for children of all ages. From adorable newborn essentials to stylish ensembles for 8-year-olds, MiniKlub is dedicated to making every shopping experience enjoyable and hassle-free for parents.

Ms. Anjana Pasi, Director of MiniKlub, expressed her excitement about the new store, stating, “We are thrilled to open our second store in Trivandrum, a city that appreciates quality and style in children’s fashion. MiniKlub is not just a brand; it’s a celebration of childhood, and we are excited to bring our unique and fashionable collections to more families in Trivandrum.”

Incepted in 2013, MiniKlub, from the house of First Steps Babywear, has emerged as a fast-growing omni-channel brand with a presence in over 450 plus multi-brand outlets, leading e-retailers and exclusive brand stores – both physical and online. Having successfully marked its presence in 28 cities with 65 exclusive brand stores. Inspired by the childhood spirit, Miniklub takes utmost care while designing the products for comfort and safety of the babies. Miniklub also takes pride in following sustainable manufacturing process while bringing the best quality products to the market. The retailer today operates 450+ multi-brand outlets with a solid presence on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Myntra, Flipkart and Ajio. Miniklub also delivers across India through their own ecommerce platform www.miniklub.in

New Delhi, 14th December 2023: A leading diversified technology company, Panasonic Life Solutions India’s Industrial Devices Division (INDD) today introduced an innovative 6-in-1, 6DoF (Degrees of Freedom) Inertial Sensor. The sensor measures vehicle acceleration and angular rate across three axes (X, Y, and Z), providing critical information that enhances vehicle safety and stability. These sensors adhere rigorously to the ISO26262 Functional Safety Standards, including the Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL-D), reflecting the robustness and dependability in mission-critical application

The sensor’s applications extend to diverse use cases making them a key component in the ongoing evolution of automotive safety:

• As safety stands as an overriding priority within the Automotive sector, the 6Dof sensors can detect sudden manoeuvres or abrupt halts, promptly recognizing the vehicle’s rapid shifts in movement and send signals to the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helping the driver maintain control of the vehicle.
• In the case of two-wheelers, the 6-in-1 inertial sensors are used for the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) module enabling accurate detection of posture and motion to apply traction control, riding mode, race ABS, semi-active suspension system, and adaptive lighting for supporting safe and comfortable cruising.
• In autonomous driving applications, the 6DoF inertial sensors enhance the performance of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and collision avoidance systems by furnishing precise insights into the vehicle’s position and dynamics.
• The sensor also supports Vehicle-to-X (V2X) communication, including Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle-to-Control Centre communication, which are essential for communication during an emergency situation.

Commenting on the launch Mr. Narayan Kumar, Divisional Director – Industrial Devices Division, Panasonic Life Solutions India said, “We believe in prioritizing safety, performance (efficiency) and durability for our customers.  With the ongoing evolution of ADAS and vehicle safety features in the Automotive sector, there has been a rise in demand for high-precision inertial sensors that enable accurate self-position estimation. Notably, this trend transcends beyond just passenger vehicles and extends to the 2-wheeler market in India. Panasonic’s 6DoF sensor reflects our firm commitment to catering to these rapidly evolving requirements. It has been engineered with precision to address the multifaceted requirements of modern automotive and industrial systems, from safety applications to advanced control systems.”

The Panasonic 6in1 Inertial Sensor is compact, measuring just 4.5mm x 4.5mm x 1.1mm, and houses an array of three accelerometers and three gyroscopes integrated onto a single MEMS chip. This design innovation eliminates the complexities of alignment during integration, providing engineers with unparalleled design freedom. These sensors empower automotive systems to adeptly respond to evolving road conditions, unforeseen emergencies, and potential hazards, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and elevating overall passenger safety while driving.

Pune, 14th December 2023: On the momentous occasion of World Water Day, Sayaji Hotels Pune took a resounding step towards environmental stewardship by spearheading a River Cleanliness Campaign at Pawna River, Chinchwad Gaon. Recognizing the pivotal role of clean rivers in fostering both human well-being and ecological balance, the event unfolded on the the world water day.

The campaign, a collaborative effort between Sayaji Hotels Pune Ltd, the esteemed PCMC Ex Corporator, Mrs. Ashwinitai Chinchawde, Municipal Corporation Division Head, Madhav Shinde, and the dedicated efforts of Area Head, Prakash Kashale, along with his team, aimed to raise awareness and take action towards preserving and restoring the Pawna River.

“We believe that a clean river is essential for both humans and nature to thrive,” expressed the team at Sayaji Pune, emphasizing their commitment to environmental conservation.

The event witnessed an enthusiastic team of 20 individuals who dedicated their time and efforts wholeheartedly to the cause. Together, they laboured diligently to address the pressing issue of garbage accumulation along the riverbanks. Their concerted efforts culminated in the collection of a significant amount of waste, tallying between 150-200 kilograms.

The commitment, dedication, and unwavering spirit displayed by each team member underscored the efficacy of teamwork in effecting positive change for the environment.

“Participating in the River Cleanliness Campaign on World Water Day was a humbling experience. Our team’s dedication exemplifies the power of collective action in safeguarding our environment. At Sayaji Pune, we’re committed to driving meaningful change and nurturing a sustainable future for generations to come,” expressed General Manager Mr. Ajay Kanojia.

Sayaji Pune extends heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Ashwinitai Chinchawde, Madhav Shinde, Prakash Kashale, and the entire team for their invaluable contribution and unwavering support during this endeavour. The success of this campaign exemplifies the potential for meaningful change when communities unite for a common cause.

This initiative aligns with Sayaji Pune’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The organization remains steadfast in its dedication to future endeavors aimed at preserving our precious water resources and fostering a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

Mumbai, 14th December 2023: Sayaji Hotels proudly announces the appointment of Teena Nichani as the General Manager – Sales. With a robust career spanning over 22 years in the hotel industry, she brings a wealth of experience in sales and marketing management, front office operations, and strategic business solutions.

Teena’s extensive expertise includes strong negotiation skills, problem resolution, and a client-centric approach. She is recognized for her exceptional communication skills and a proven track record of achieving results. Teena’s strengths lie in interpersonal skills, team management, organizational abilities, an analytical approach, diligence, innovation, and a self-motivated attitude.

In her previous roles, Teena played a pivotal role in achieving the unit’s income budget and maintaining the highest RevPAR in the direct compset. She was also recognized for her outstanding performance and contribution to the unit, earning her a place at Cornell University for a Professional Development course in Market Strategy and Revenue Management.

Teena’s achievements extend to successful hotel launches, securing prestigious outdoor catering businesses, and creating brand awareness. Her experience includes handling sales and marketing management for various hotels and regional offices, showcasing her ability to strategize and achieve organizational goals.

As the newly appointed General Manager – Sales for Sayaji Hotels, Teena Nichani will lead the sales teams, oversee the implementation of hotel systems and budgets, and ensure the achievement of GOPs in conjunction with unit general managers. She will leverage her expertise to drive business growth, enhance brand visibility, and contribute to the overall success of Sayaji Hotels.

Upon her appointment, Teena Nichani shared her enthusiasm, stating, “I am thrilled to join Sayaji Hotels and contribute to the continued success of this esteemed brand. I look forward to working with the team to elevate the sales strategies, ensuring Sayaji Hotels remains a leader in the hospitality industry.”

Sayaji Hotels welcomes Teena Nichani to the leadership team and looks forward to her valuable contributions in shaping the future success of the organization.

New Delhi, 14th December 2023: YuppTV, a global leader in internet-based TV and on-demand services for South Asian content, proudly announces the addition of Pitaara TV to its FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) network platform. Pitaara TV, Punjab’s premier movie satellite channel, has garnered a massive global audience of 1.3 billion viewers, solidifying its position as the ultimate entertainment destination.

Building on its decade-long experience in the OTT field, YuppTV’s entry into the FAST network segment aims to tap into the flourishing category of free ad-supported streaming television services, witnessing significant growth worldwide. The partnership with major network providers enhances the quality content offering through YuppTV’s FAST channels, which currently boasts 200+ channels and anticipates reaching 500+ channels in the coming months.

Commenting on the launch, Uday Reddy, CEO & Founder, YuppTV, said, “We are delighted to introduce Pitaara TV to our FAST network platform, a significant expansion reflecting the surging demand for diverse content. As one of the foremost entertainment channels for Punjabis and the Punjabi diaspora, Pitaara TV aligns seamlessly with our commitment to offering premium, culturally-rich entertainment. The channel’s unique mix of Punjabi films, music, and exclusive shows brings a fresh, vibrant dimension to our FAST channels. This partnership not only enhances our viewers’ experience but also reinforces YuppTV as a go-to destination for global audiences seeking quality content. We look forward to bringing the magic of Pitaara TV directly to homes worldwide.”

Mahesh Sharma, Vice President of Strategic Partnership and Alliances at Pitaara TV, expressed his enthusiasm to launch Fast channel Pitaara TV on YuppTV, stating, “We are thrilled that Pitaara TV is now available on YuppTV, one of the world’s largest internet-based TV and On-demand service providers for South Asian content. Our goal is to extend our reach to the homes of each & every Punjabi residing worldwide. With this inclusion, we are confident that our mission will be accomplished. Pitaara TV offers the finest Punjabi content, featuring the latest movies, shows, and music that will cater to diverse entertainment preferences.”

YuppTV is currently ranked as the #1 Internet Pay TV platform for South Asians living abroad and the largest Internet TV platform for premium content availability in India. With over 13 million mobile downloads and a 4.0 user rating, YuppTV remains a top choice for virtual home entertainment anytime, anywhere.

By – Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

In the wake of the Indian stock market’s record-breaking highs, many investors find themselves in a quandary. Should they continue investing in stocks, chase the ever-fluctuating gold market, or explore a different path altogether? While both assets have the potential for reward, there’s one asset class that consistently outperforms them in both value appreciation and overall satisfaction: residential real estate.

Real Estate: A Consistent and Reliable Performer

Consider these compelling statistics:

The national average residential property price increased by over 8% year-on-year in the first half of 2023, according to leading property consultancies.

Average rental yields across major Indian cities ranged between 2.5% and 4.5% in 2023, providing a steady stream of passive income.

Property prices in key metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi have grown by an average of 15% annually over the past five years.

These figures paint a clear picture: residential real estate offers consistent appreciation, making it a reliable long-term investment.

Beyond Financial Returns: The Unquantifiable Value of Owning a Home

The true value of real estate extends far beyond financial benefits. Owning a home provides a fundamental human need: a secure and comfortable haven. This alone carries immense value, offering stability, peace of mind, and a sense of belonging that no stock or gold investment can replicate.

Land: A Scarce Resource with Increasing Value

Unlike stocks, which can be readily replicated and traded, land is a finite resource. As India’s population continues its rapid growth, the demand for housing shows no signs of abating. This translates to an ever-increasing scarcity of land, particularly in desirable locations. By investing in real estate, you’re not just buying a home; you’re securing a piece of land that will only become more valuable with time.

The Psychological and Social Benefits of Homeownership

Owning a home goes beyond dollars and cents. It fosters a sense of belonging, community, and pride. It provides a space for families to grow and thrive, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Studies have shown a positive correlation between homeownership and mental well-being, overall life satisfaction, and even stronger family bonds.

A Treasured Legacy for Generations to Come

Real estate offers a tangible, long-term investment that can be passed down to future generations. By investing in a home, you’re not just building wealth for yourself, but for your family’s future as well. This creates a generational legacy that ensures long-term financial security and stability for loved ones.

Financial Stability Through Rental Income

Owning a second home or renting out a portion of your property can be a reliable source of passive income. This additional income stream can contribute to financial stability, retirement planning, and achieving other financial goals, ultimately giving you greater control over your financial future.

Tax Benefits and Portfolio Diversification

Investing in residential real estate offers various tax benefits, including deductions on home loan interest and capital gains tax exemptions under certain conditions. This further enhances the financial attractiveness of owning a home. Additionally, real estate provides diversification benefits for your portfolio, protecting you from the volatility of the stock and gold markets, thereby creating a more balanced and resilient investment strategy.

A Home is More Than an Investment

While stocks and gold may offer the allure of short-term gains, they also come with the risk of sharp dips and worrisome highs. In contrast, real estate remains a cornerstone for long-term wealth creation and overall well-being. With its consistent appreciation, increasing land value, social and psychological benefits, and long-term value proposition, a home offers much more than just financial returns.

It is the only investment that delivers multiple and sustained returns and should definitely feature large in a diversified investment portfolio. And – it’s a place to call your own, a sanctuary for your family, and a legacy to be cherished for generations to come. As the Indian economy continues its growth trajectory and urbanization progresses, investing in real estate remains a wise and rewarding decision for those seeking a secure and fulfilling future.

13th December 2023Hyderabad, India: Nourish You, India’s pioneering superfood brand announces the 100% acquisition of leading vegan dairy brand, One Good, in a landmark moment in India’s burgeoning plant-based foods ecosystem.

Founded in 2016 under the name Goodmylk, One Good, headquartered in Bengaluru, is best known for its award-winning range of vegan dairy products like milks, cheeses, chocolates, curd, ghee, butter, and more. This acquisition marks the largest M&A activity in the conscious-consumption category. Making way for long-term growth and backed with a shared vision, the One Good team including CEO & Co-founder Abhay Rangan, CFO & Co-founder Radhika Datt, and COO Dhivakar Sathyamurthy join the leadership team at Nourish You.

Starting with 50 acres to over 5000 acres today, Nourish You pioneered the cultivation of Quinoa and Chia in India. Having expanded into the superfoods category with a range of innovative products made with fills, mueslis and plant-based milk, Nourish You’s products are available across over 2,500 retail stores. Nourish You is backed by marquee investors including Zerodha’s Nikhil Kamath, leading actor and active investor Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Darwinbox’s Rohit Chennamaneni, Triumph Group’s Y Janardhana Rao, Gruhas Proptech’s Abhijeet Pai, KIMS Hospitals’ Abhinay Bollineni among others. The company ventured into alternative dairy with the launch of Millet Mlk in early 2023. It secured the Poshak Anaaj Award 2023 from Indian Institute of Millet Research (IIMR) and the Best Alternative to Dairy accolade from Plant-Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA) for Millet Mlk.

One Good is known for its efforts in innovating to offer vegan milk at a lesser cost as compared to cow’s milk in select pockets of the country. It continues its mission of enabling access to high-quality, accessible plant-based nutrition for all. A leader in the vegan dairy category, One Good has acquired 3 plant-based companies till date.

Speaking on the acquisition, Krishna Reddy, Co-founder, Nourish You, said, “From introducing India to the power of superfoods and now acquiring One Good, Nourish You evolves from being a superfood brand to a plant-based brand, embracing a more inclusive vision. One Good’s journey is revolutionary. It was born with a vision of creating the next big dairy company, devoid of animals. Moreover, it is led by a team of fervent vegans dedicated to both innovation and animal protection. The acquisition integrates Nourish You’s commitment to animal welfare with our existing values of nourishing consumers, farmers, and the planet. It also reinforces our commitment to make healthy, flavorful plant-based foods, affordable and accessible.”

Speaking on becoming a part of the Nourish You family, Abhay Rangan, CEO and Co-founder, One Good, said, “Our journey towards creating One Good was ignited by a passion for animal rights and a dedication to accessible and affordable plant-based alternatives for all. We are excited about being a part of Nourish You’s incredible platform and leveraging their scale and operational excellence to build India’s biggest plant-based dairy company.”

Nourish You’s growing retail presence combined with One Good’s strong direct-to-consumer engagement positions the company as the go-to destination for innovative plant-based alternatives in India.

BANGALORE, 13th December 2023: Syngene International Ltd, a leading integrated research, development, and manufacturing services organization, is proud to announce Happy Kumari, Nikitha A, Likitha S from Government Higher Primary School, Haaragadde and Sharoon Bilal Hasan, Govinda Raj, Bharathi Muttappa Ari from Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School – Katipalla, as the winners of the second edition of the annual Science Quiz from Bangalore and Mangalore respectively. This year, the initiative celebrates the company’s 30th anniversary. Themed “Think, Learn, Win! Enable, Amplify, Empower!” the quiz competition aimed to provide equal opportunities, motivation, and talent identification for students in government schools across Dakshin Karnataka. The announcement ceremony, graced by the esteemed Dr. Vasudev Aatre Former Head, Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) was the Chief Guest and Dr. Tessy Thomas Director General of Aeronautical Systems, Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) were the Guest of Honor, Ms Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Founder & Managing Trustee, Biocon Foundation, Dr. Anupama N Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation, Dr. Jayashree Aiyer, Vice President, Biology, Discovery Services, Syngene International Limited, Mr K Thigarajan, Executive Vice Chairman, Agastya International Foundation, Ms Rakhi Advani Gautham, General Manager – Partner Relations, Agastya International Foundation in Bangalore.

The quiz covered 125 schools in Bangalore and Dakshina Kannada, creating excitement in the academic community. The program is implemented in collaboration with Agastya International Foundation and Biocon Foundation, the charitable arm of the Biocon Group of companies. As a part of this initiative employees of Syngene volunteered to help run the program, conducting the preliminary rounds, evaluating the answers and mentoring the children during the course of this initiative.

Dr Anupama Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation, commenting on the occasion stated, “Through initiatives like the science quiz, we believe in igniting the flame of curiosity and knowledge, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has the opportunity to explore the wonders of science and shape a brighter future. The purpose of the quiz is to make learning science an easily accessible and enriching experience for children, providing them with a better understanding of the world around them.”

The science quiz successfully provided students in government schools with an equal opportunity to engage in science education, and encouraged them to be curious about the subject and its impact on everyday life, irrespective of socioeconomic backgrounds. Serving as a motivational tool, the quiz inspired children in government schools to pursue scientific studies and consider future career paths. Moreover, the quizzes played a crucial role in identifying students with a natural aptitude for science.

“Beyond the competition, we’ve witnessed the transformative impact on students, fostering a deeper appreciation for science and cultivating critical thinking skills. This initiative has not only encouraged academic excellence but has also sparked a passion for discovery, paving the way for future scientists and innovators. By breaking barriers and making science enjoyable, we aim to create a lasting impact on these young minds, inspiring a lifelong love for learning and inquiry.” Dr Shetty, added.

A comprehensive question bank with interactive science questions based on real-life situations and appropriate to the curriculum was created. Schools were oriented about the initiative, and a 20-minute test with 20 questions in multiple-choice format was conducted. The top three students from the participating school [one from class 6 and two from class 7] selected for the final round, with Happy Kumari, Nikitha A, Likitha S from Government Higher Primary School, Haaragadde and Sharoon Bilal Hasan, Govinda Raj, Bharathi Muttappa Ari from Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School- Katipalla, winning the quiz from Bangalore and Mangalore respectively.

The students selected in the final round were also mentored during the course of a week to help them excel. After exciting rounds of semifinals and finals, Government Higher Primary School, Haaragadde, Government Higher Primary School, Veerasandra, Government Higher Primary School, Marasuru and Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School- Katipalla, emerged as the winning teams, followed by Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School- Pandeswara and Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School- Madhya as a close second and third position in their respective cities. Medals and cash prizes of Rs. 15,000, Rs. 12,000 & Rs. 9,000 were bestowed upon the top three teams, along with consolation prizes of Rs. 4,500 being awarded to Abhijit, Dharshan R and Sirish from Government Higher Primary School, Devangapete and Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School –Mannagudda, Hosabettu, Baikampady Fisharish. The top winning schools at each location will also receive smart classroom infrastructure. It will come with a furnished classroom and EdTech devices to harness technology and transform classroom into interactive and highly engaging digital classroom. Additionally, a rolling trophy was presented to the school that secured the top spot.

Students and teachers alike have praised the program for its impact on learning. Govinda Raj, Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School, Katipalla shared, “The science quiz has opened a new world of possibilities for me. It’s not just about winning a competition; it’s about discovering the joy of science and realizing that learning can be exciting. The hands-on experience and mentorship have fueled my curiosity, and I’m inspired to pursue a future in science, thanks to this incredible initiative.”

Reflecting on the program’s approach, Smt. Sumati, from Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Higher Primary School, Parapaade, “As an educator, witnessing the impact of the Syngene Science Quiz on our students has been truly rewarding. It goes beyond textbooks and classrooms, creating an environment where learning becomes an adventure. The quiz has not only enhanced their academic understanding but has also instilled critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It’s a testament to the power of experiential learning in shaping young minds.”

Launched in 2022 in Anekal, Karnataka, with 50 schools, the science quiz has expanded its reach this year, encompassing Anekal, Dakshin Karnataka, and Hyderabad. Through this initiative, Syngene aspires to create a positive impact, reaching 7,500 students across 150 government schools spread across the three locations.

The science quiz aligns with Syngene’s broader initiatives in supporting science education and research. Anupama highlighted the various other programs the company is involved in, including the Mobile Science Lab, and the Lab On Bike. This is in addition to the sponsorship of staff completing their PhDs, support for PhDs and postdocs at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, and collaborations with institutions like the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) for research projects and the establishment of a not-for-profit, multi-specialty hospital.

Mumbai, India,13th December 2023: Callebaut, renowned for producing the Finest Belgian Chocolate, proudly announces the return of its flagship event, Callebaut Patissier of the Year (CPY) 2024, in association with Chocolate Academy Mumbai as a ‘Knowledge Partner.’ This third edition of the prestigious competition invites chefs and artisans to showcase their creativity and mastery in the art of chocolate crafting.

Celebrating a century of crafting The Finest Belgian Chocolate, Callebaut acknowledges the value of originality. In the world of chocolate and pastry, being original is paramount. And this year’s theme, ‘Craft Your Signature,’emphasizes the uniqueness of every chef. Amid the pressure for artisans and chefs to conform to trends on social media, CPY 2024 seeks to create a platform that celebrates chefs for who they are – their background, culture, and authentic selves.

The competition will feature qualifying rounds that challenge participants to showcase their originality through chocolate creations. These will be held through February 2024 and will take place in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore. The qualifier winners will compete in the finale, which will be held in Mumbai in May 2024.

Speaking about this, Mr. Dhruva Sanyal, Managing Director of India for Barry Callebaut, the company that produces the Callebaut brand, said, “As we embark on the third edition of Callebaut Patissier of the Year, we are excited to witness the diverse and innovative creations of our talented Indian chefs. This competition reflects our commitment to supporting and celebrating the unique talents within the culinary world.”

Furthermore, Pratik Deshmukh, Head of Chocolate Academy Mumbai, said, “The CPY 2024 offers an exhilarating opportunity to join the Callebaut family. This competition is not only a chance to compete but also to learn. We welcome you to become a part of the Callebaut and Global Chocolate Academy™ Network. We’re thrilled to witness groundbreaking creation techniques and excited to see the best talents come forward to participate in the competition. We are excited to find the best gem of the pastry chef community together”.

Application submissions are open from 1st December 2023 and can be submitted online (here). The last date to submit applications is 20th January 2024. The applications will be evaluated by an esteemed jury led by the Head of Chocolate Academy Mumbai, Pratik Deshmukh.

The title winner will be privileged to visit the world’s largest chocolate factory in Wieze, Belgium. The first runner-up will receive a masterclass at Chocolate Academy Dubai. The second runner-up will be awarded an international masterclass at Chocolate Academy Mumbai.

Since its inception in 2017, Callebaut Patissier of the Year has been a platform dedicated to challenging the chocolate creativities of Indian chefs, artisans, and chocolate professionals. Hosted by the House of The Finest Belgian Chocolate, the competition aims to provide a stage for pastry chefs and chocolatiers from across India to exhibit their passion and innovation before a distinguished jury.