Archives 2023

Gram Unnati Ties Up with UP Government to Transition 100,000 acre From Summer Paddy to Spring Maize

Gram Unnati

Lucknow, 22nd December 2023 Four Leaf Clover Agro Pvt. Ltd. (Gram UnnatiTM), India’s first truly integrated agri solutions company, announced that it is getting into a strategic partnership with the Government of Uttar Pradesh for a massive transformative initiative aimed at diversifying crop cultivation.

The project was unveiled here at the IIA Bhawan under the Chairmanship of Shri. Manoj Kumar Singh, IAS, Agriculture Production Commissioner / Infrastructure and Industrial Development Commissioner & Additional Chief Secretary, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, and in the presence of Dr. K.V. Raju, Economic Advisor to the Hon. Chief Minister of UP.

The project, which is also supported by IFC’s India Agtech Advisory Project (IAAP) aims to shift 100,000 acres from summer paddy to spring maize across six districts in Western UP: Amroha, Bareilly, Bulandshahr, Moradabad, Rampur, and Sambhal. Spanning a timeline of three to five years its overarching goal is to elevate farmer incomes and preserve vital natural resources.

Commenting on the launch of the project, Shri. Manoj Kumar Singh, IAS Agriculture Production Commissioner / Infrastructure and Industrial Development Commissioner & Additional Chief Secretary, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh said: “This initiative marks a significant milestone in agricultural sustainability and socio-economic development in Western Uttar Pradesh. We are extremely delighted to have Gram Unnati as a valuable partner for a critical project that will lay the groundwork for a transformative journey toward sustainable agriculture. This project will showcase the potential for socio-economic progress through innovative crop diversification and will reap financial benefits for a number of farmers in these six districts of Uttar Pradesh.”

The primary objectives are to significantly enhance farmer incomes by 15% to 25% and to conserve crucial natural resources, including reducing water usage for irrigation by an impressive 60% to 80%.

An elated Aneesh Jain, CEO & Founder, Gram Unnati said: “We are greatly honored today to see the fruits of months of effort of fostering collaboration among a wide range of stakeholders come to life. Our commitment is to cultivate synergies among stakeholders, crafting a model that not only bolsters farmer prosperity but also champions environmental preservation. Facilitating partnerships between the government, maize processors, input suppliers, and other essential actors in the agricultural ecosystem is crucial for the project’s success.”

At the event, discussions revolved around a strategic roadmap aimed at transitioning the specified acreage to maize cultivation. Pertinent stakeholders, including farmers, maize processors, input suppliers, service providers, and others, actively participated, aligning their interests with the project’s objectives.

E2E Networks Launches India’s First HGX H100-Powered AI Platform for Developers

India,22nd December 2023 E2E Networks (NSE: E2E) has made a landmark achievement in India’s technological landscape with the launch of the HGX H100 GPU-powered TIR, its flagship AI platform, specifically designed for startups, researchers, and enterprises focusing on building foundational AI models, such as Large Language Models (LLMs). This state-of-the-art AI-building platform sets a new standard for AI model development in India, offering seamless training, inference, and model deployment capabilities.

In the AI era, the ability for startups and enterprises to leverage advanced GPU infrastructure is crucial. The HGX H100 GPUs provide incredible computational efficiency and speed, making them ideal for the complex tasks involved in AI model training and deployment. TIR, designed to address businesses’ growing needs in foundational AI model development, eliminates the complexities associated with infrastructure management. By leveraging the advanced capabilities of HGX H100 GPUs, TIR enables companies to focus on building sophisticated AI models, without the constraints of underlying infrastructure.

With this launch, E2E Networks has become the first hyperscale cloud service provider in India to bring the HGX H100-powered AI building platform for developers, data scientists and researchers working on foundational AI models and Indic-language LLMs. By democratizing access to such technology, E2E Networks is enabling Indian businesses to compete globally and lead in the AI frontier.

Speaking about this development, Mohamed Imran, Chief Technology Officer, E2E Networks said, “HGX H100 is the AI supercomputer designed to provide efficiency and speed required for building advanced AI models. TIR, our AI platform, simplifies complex AI workflows, enabling innovators to harness advanced AI capabilities effortlessly. By bringing the capabilities of HGX H100 GPUs to TIR, we are enabling businesses of all sizes to harness the power of advanced machine learning without the complexities of infrastructure management. Through this launch, we are not just leveling the playing field; we are empowering Indian organizations to lead in the global AI revolution and drive significant advancements in AI development.”

Freshworks Chennai Marathon powered by Chennai Runners to be held on Saturday, January 6th, 2024

Chennai, December 21, 2023: The Chennai Runners, a not-for-profit organization run by passionate runner-volunteers since 2006, and Freshworks Inc. (NASDAQ: FRSH), the global software as a service company from Chennai, announced the 12th edition of the Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024, scheduled to be held on Saturday, 6th January 2024. This year the marathon is expected to witness the participation of over 22,000 runners including competitors, corporate honchos, and thousands of running enthusiasts.

The upcoming Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners, will be certified by AIMS (The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races), a worldwide association of the organizers of long-distance road running races. Chennai Marathon 2024 is recognized by Abbott World Marathon Majors as a qualifier event.

Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024, powered by Chennai Runners, the largest running event in Chennai and the second-largest marathon in India, will comprise four events for men and women including, a Full Marathon (42.195 Km) – the flagship race of the event, the Perfect 20 Miler (32.186 Km), the Half Marathon (21.097 Km) and the 10 Km Run.

This year the Freshworks Chennai Marathon will see the participation of over 35% women runners. The marathon will have participation from visual impaired runners, blade runners, and wheelchair runners.

Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024, powered by Chennai Runners is all set to rock the city limits as the full marathon is set to be flagged off at the iconic Napier Bridge, Marina Beach, and run through the scenic beach route towards the lighthouse and later it will pass through Madhya Kailash, Tidel Park and to ECR. Like the previous edition, this year’s marathon will also have two start points, Napier Bridge and Elliot’s Beach.

Stock photo - Napier bridge Marathon start (1)

Full Marathon (42.195 Km) the Perfect 20 Miler (32.186 Km) and the 10 Km Run will start from Napier Bridge while Elliot’s Beach will be the starting point of the Half Marathon (21.097 Km). The Indian Maritime University will be the finish point for the full marathon, 20 miler, and the half marathon while the CPT IPL Ground will be the finish point for the 10-kilometer run.

Like the previous edition, this year the Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners seeks to increase awareness of Type 1 diabetics and intends to raise funds for people with insulin needs thereby supporting monthly needs towards their insulin expenses.

Partners

Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners will bring together a host of Chennai-based brands as partners. Baashyaam as the Lifestyle Partner, Sundaram Finance Group as the Silver Partner, Chennai Metro Rail Corporation will be the Metro Partner, Apollo Hospitals will be the Medical Partner, CR Volunteers will be the First Responders, Limca Sportz is the Hydration Partner and Unived is the Marathon Fuelling partner.

The Marathon is also thankful for the support of the Greater Chennai Police Commissioner, Greater Chennai Traffic Police, Tambaram Commissionerate, TNAA, the People of Chennai, Cand the vibrant running community of Chennai, and the Greater Chennai Corporation.

Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 will be a zero-waste marathon and has roped in Urbaser Sumeet as a partner for recycling and waste audits.

Mr. V P Senthil Kumar, Race Director, Freshworks Chennai Marathon 2024 powered by Chennai Runners said, “Chennai Runners are thrilled to announce the 12th edition of our iconic event, Freshworks Chennai Marathon powered by Chennai Runners. Building upon the resounding success of the previous edition we are gearing up for an even more exhilarating experience that promises to leave an indelible mark on the city and the world at large.

Over the years, the event has grown in stature and earned its place among the top marathons organized in the country. The recent recognition from the Abbott World Marathon Majors is a testament This prestigious designation allows athletes who achieve the Automatic Qualifying Time for their respective age groups to secure an immediate invitation to the 2024 Abbott WMM Wanda Age Group World Championships”.

Mr. Girish Mathrubhootham, Founder and CEO, Freshworks said, “Freshworks is proud to be associated with the iconic Chennai Marathon. Running throught the scenic landmarks of the city, together with a huge number of athletes from all over the world is going to be a special feeling for all of us at Freshworks. We want everyone to take up fitness as a daily agenda and training for a marathon is the best way one can start.”

KidZania’s Winter Wonderland: A Magical Festive Extravaganza Captivates Families

Noida, December 21, 2023 – The enchanting Winter Wonderland festivities at KidZania Delhi NCR and Mumbai kickstarted on 15th December 2023 and will conclude on January 7, 2024, leaving behind cherished memories of a magical holiday season. Families and children indulged in the timeless charm and joyful spirit of the holidays throughout the celebration, turning KidZania into a haven of festive joy.

Event Highlights:

● Giant Snow Globe
● Tinkle Mega Collection Box
● Nestle Ceregrow Christmas Art Challenge
● FSM Carol Singing Workshop
● Santa Parade with RightZkeepers
● Christmas DIY

KidZania's Winter Wonderland_ A Magical Festive Extravaganza Captivates Families (1)

Games:

● Ballistic Bingo Blast
● Arctic Pin Tumble
● Jolly Ring Toss Challenge

Rahul Dhamdhere, Chief Marketing Officer of KidZania India, said, “As the season unfolded, we witnessed hearts filled with goodwill and the joy of carols at KidZania. Our commitment to bringing the enchanting charm of Christmas, especially to children, is evident in the unforgettable experiences crafted through meticulously planned activities. In the spirit of love and generosity, we are treating every visitor to delectable food, cherishing moments that make this time of year truly special.”

Unwind this winter in Pune with Bhimthadi Jatra

National, December 21st, 2023: Bhimthadi Jatra, founded by Sunanda Tai Pawar, celebrates its 17th year, with a captivating rural extravaganza that offers a unique and vibrant experience for visitors from all walks of life. Held annually in Pune, this extraordinary carnival seamlessly blends culture, tradition, skills, and entertainment, making it a must-visit.

With over 400,000 visitors every year, the Jatra welcomes Punekars, Mumbaikars, and art enthusiasts from neighboring cities. There is a beautiful music anthem attached to Bhimthadi this year with an aim to attract the younger generation to embrace the cultural diversity, bridging the gap between the rural and urban culture at Bhimthadi Jatra.

The 17th year is a platform empowering women to showcase their skills in handicrafts, textiles, and food preparation, contributing to their communities.

In a world where the allure of preserving and revelling in cultural heritage is irresistible, Bhimthadi Jatra emerges as a distinctive and authentic experience that beckons exploration. This annual spectacle, nestled in the heart of Maharashtra, not only showcases the region’s agricultural splendour but also unfolds as a vibrant stage for local artisans, craftsmen, and farmers to showcase their talents and products.

Bhimthadi Jatra has attracted eager visitors who are interested in buying products from rural and tribal women around India. The handicrafts at Bhimthadi are made of materials like khun, neem wood, and bamboo. Specially abled children from NGOs make coasters, warli paintings, and pen holders which are sold at the Jatra. She can give valuable input on the things showcased at the event. The home decor items are upcycled and brought to the event. Furniture, kitchenware, and other items made from neem wood and bamboo are also available.

Since its inception, Bhimthadi Jatra has attracted eager visitors who anticipate the delectable food served annually at the fair. The event also boasts repeat customers who return each year to patronize specific food stalls. Millets have been a staple in our diet for generations and have seen a resurgence in popularity recently. Attendees at Bhimthadi Jatra will have the opportunity to sample local Maharashtrian cuisine at various food stalls. Bhimthadi Jatra also provides support to entrepreneurs seeking certification for their food products and assists with proper branding and packaging strategies for their goods.

Bhimthadi Jatra (1)

Continuing its ongoing approach towards embracing conscious choices and clothing, sustainable fashion wear brands like The Kishkinda Trust, Viva La Vida India and Love for the Loom are going to be participating in Bhimthadi Jatra’s 17th year exhibition.

Bhimthadi Jatra itself as an event follows sustainable practices, encouraging and educating the people who are participating and those attending.

– There is a farmers market where you can purchase organically produced products from direct contact.

– There is a policy for non-plastic, non thermocol plates being used, etc.

– The flexes used at the event for advertising purposes are all sent for recycling, ensuring zero wastage at the event.

– Plastic water bottles are not allowed at the event.

– Zero food wastage is ensured as well.

Date: December 21st – December 25th, 2023

Time: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Venue: Agricultural College Ground, Shivaji Nagar, Pune

Amey Dharwadker receives the IET India Youth Engineering Icon of the Year Award 2023

Bangalore, 21st December 2023: Amey Dharwadker, was honored with the Youth Engineering Icon of the Year Award 2023 by The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) India, a global engineering body at the forefront of innovation, advocating and leading technology usage for positive social impact for his extraordinary recommendations in the field of large-scale video, positively impacting the daily lives of over 440 million Indians.

Dharwadker is currently working at Meta as an engineering lead. His key projects involve supporting the Watch Ranking Machine Learning team working on Video Recommendations. His pioneering research in mitigating bias and exploring user interests in billion-scale online recommender systems holds immense significance in promoting fairness and shaping industry standards in the field of artificial intelligence. He has also shown an unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers through his active participation in top-tier global AI conferences, as well as his mentorship and support for Indian AI startups.

“The IET India Youth Engineering Icon of the Year Award is not just a platform to recognise exceptional engineering efforts, but to encourage and inspire a new generation to champion technology adoption for social impact. This year, we received exceptional entries across domains, each showcasing remarkable innovation and creativity in the adoption of emerging technologies. But the winner definitely stood out. We eagerly anticipate his future contributions to the continually evolving engineering landscape.” said Mr. Shekhar Sanyal, country director, IET India

The IET India Youth Engineering Icon of the Year award recognises the remarkable contributions of an individual under the age of 35 within the realm of Indian engineering. It is 1 of the 7 categories under the IET India awards that aim to motivate India’s large and rapidly expanding engineering talent to apply cutting-edge technologies to tackle world issues. Now in their third edition, the awards received a large number of entries from individuals and organizations across the country. The next edition of the awards will be announced in May 2024, and further details will be available on IET India’s official website and social media handles.

The VIBGYOR Group of Schools’ 15th Edition of VIVA Wraps Up Spectacularly

The VIBGYOR

Mumbai, 21st December 2023: The VIBGYOR Group of Schools, a leading Indian chain of K-12 schools, phenomenally and successfully concluded the 15th edition of VIVA, a blockbuster inter-school cultural extravaganza. This year’s event, held across 36 locations nationwide, exhibited the immense talent of 30,000 students from over 2000 schools in various categories.
VIVA, took off on a captivating note, offering an extensive array of over 80 competitions and workshops tailored for diverse age groups. The event encompassed 11 sports categories, along with the eagerly awaited Premier Competitions.

Expressing gratitude to the competitors and winners at the grand finale, held on the 17th December 2023, Ms. Kavita Kerawalla, Vice-Chairperson, stated, “VIVA has consistently been a beacon, illuminating the extraordinary talents within our student community. Witnessing the diverse skills and creativity showcased by participants is truly heartening and resonates with the core values of the VIBGYOR Group of Schools. This event epitomises our commitment to nurturing holistic development and providing a platform for students to shine. Congratulations to all participants and a sincere thank you to the judges, parents and supporters who made the 15th edition of VIVA 2023 an unforgettable celebration of talent and achievement.”

The event was graced with the presence of esteemed personalities like actors Kranti Redkar, Gauri Karnik and Sandeep Rajora, vocalist Jatin Bidkar, choreographers Himanshu Gadani and Pratyush Mahamia and the talented flautist Suchismita Acharya, who complimented the outstanding performances of the finalists, which left the audience in absolute awe. The winners in each category demonstrated not only their talent but also their commitment to excellence. To conclude the event, Mr. Shim Mathew, Director – Academic Operations and International Partnerships from the VIBGYOR Group of Schools expressed gratitude, with each winner being honoured with a trophy and a monetary reward.

VIVA 15 celebrated the artistic and cultural diversity within our schools and emphasised the importance of nurturing holistic development in our students.

The winners of VIVA 15 are:

Name of the winner Category School Name City
Aarohi Joshi – Winner Voice of Viva VIBGYOR High Vadodara
Devika Vinod – 1st Runner Up Voice of Viva VIBGYOR High Airoli
Anishka Sharma – Winner Nova Girl VIBGYOR High Balewadi
Mahee Mantri – 1st Runner Up Nova Girl VIBGYOR High Kolhapur
Abhay Rajesh – Winner Nova Boy VIBGYOR High Doddanekkundi
Aariz Menon – 1st Runner Up Nova Boy VIBGYOR Roots and Rise Hennur
Prabal Bhandari – Winner Swing n Swirl – Solo Hills High school Surat
Prachi Thakur – 1st Runner Up Swing n Swirl – Solo ST. MARY’S JNP URAN Airoli
DWM Crew – Winner Swing n Swirl – Group DWM (Dance with Music company) Academy Pune
Legends Dance Academy- 1st Runner Up Swing n Swirl- Group LEGEND DANCE ACADEMY Mumbai


HCLTech’s digital solution for the aerospace and defense industry receives SAP recognition

NEW YORK, US and NOIDA, India, Dec 20, 2023—HCLTech, a leading technology company, today announced that its digital manufacturing solution for the aerospace and defense (A&D) industry, Base90, has been recognized as an SAP-qualified partner-packaged solution.

HCLTech Base90 for A&D production engineering and operations (PEO) leverages SAP software and innovations and helps to accelerate the implementation of SAP S/4HANA®, SAP’s leading ERP solution that allows companies to perform transactions and analyse business data.

“Our SAP-qualified partner-packaged solution combines industry-specific best practices, frameworks and resources with SAP capabilities in project-based fabrication, assembly, maintenance, repair and overhaul. By delivering pre-configured business processes to manufacturing clients, we can help them accelerate efficiencies across the entire product digital thread lifecycle,” said Ajay Bahl, Chief Growth Officer, Americas, MEGA Industries, HCLTech.

HCLTech is part of the SAP PartnerEdge® program. The SAP PartnerEdge program provides the enablement tools, benefits and support to facilitate building high-quality, disruptive applications focused on specific business needs – quickly and cost-effectively.

SAP-qualified partner-packaged solutions are built, sold and supported by SAP partners. These integrated solutions combine SAP® software with a partner’s industry or line-of-business expertise, services, customizations, or applications, so that customers can run at their best whether they have 100 employees or more than 10,000.

Packaged solutions create a unique customer offering with a pre-defined price, scope and rapid implementation timeline and fast time to value. To obtain this designation, HCLTech met specific criteria and was qualified by the SAP Partner Solution Center organization.

Golden Jubilee Celebration of IIA India – Calcutta Chapter

IIA India

Kolkata, 21st December 2023: The Institute of Internal Auditors India – Calcutta Chapter (IIAI Calcutta Chapter) was the first chapter established in 1974 in India and the year 2023-24 is the Golden Jubilee year for the Chapter. The chapter was founded by a group of internal audit professionals who recognized the need for a professional organization to promote the development of the internal auditing profession in Eastern India.

The Chapter headquartered at Kolkata has 3 audit clubs at Bhubaneswar, Guwahati and Jamshedpur under its arm. Presently, the chapter has more than 400 active members – Corporate and individuals including Big4 accounting & auditing firms.

The Chapter celebrated its’ Golden Jubilee on Saturday 16th December 2023 at Hotel Taj Vivanta, Kolkata under the leadership of the President of the Chapter Mr. Subhash Saraf, a practicing CA over four decades. Mr Sidheshwar Bhalla, National President of the Institute of Internal Auditors India gave the inaugural address and Mr. Subrata Bagchi (former partner of Deloitte India) was Chief Guest and he spoke on the evolution of Internal Audit function and its most importance in future. Mr Debashis Ghosh, National Secretary and Mr Abin Mukhopadhayay, Secretary of the Chapter were also the part of the dais and gave their valuable views. The celebration was attended by around 200 professionals which included corporate leaders from all across India as well as leaders from leading CA firms in Eastern India. All the Past Presidents of the Chapter were invited and they were felicitated by the chapter at the function for their leadership at the chapter.The chapter released a memorable souvenir on this occasion. The Chapter has lined up many events in this golden jubilee year.

The chapter has a strong track record of providing high-quality education, training, and advocacy for the profession. The chapter is also a valuable resource for internal auditors in Eastern India, providing them with a network of colleagues and support services.

In recognition of its contributions to the internal audit profession, the IIA Calcutta Chapter has received several awards from IIA India, including the “Chapter of the Year” award on multiple occasions

Rhythm Hospitality Unveils Rhythm Gurgaon: A Luxurious Retreat in the Heart of Gurugram

Rhythm Hospitality

Gurugram, 21st December’23: Rhythm Hospitality, a distinguished player in the luxury hospitality sector, is thrilled to unveil the launch of its newest venture, Rhythm Gurugram, slated to open its doors to guests in January 2024.

The property boasts an exquisite blend of contemporary design, top-notch amenities, and the signature warmth that defines the Rhythm experience. With 121 stylish rooms to spacious suites, the hotel redefines opulence and comfort in the heart of Gurugram.

Elegance Redefined: 121 Luxurious Rooms Categorized in Three Suites

Immerse yourself in the epitome of luxury as you step into Rhythm Gurgaon, offering 121 exquisitely designed rooms categorized into luxurious suites. Each room promises stunning views of the city, providing a sanctuary of comfort and sophistication.

Strategic Location: Next to Airia Mall

Strategically located a mere 24 kilometers from the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Sohna Road in New Delhi & adjacent to the renowned Airia Mall, Rhythm Gurugram boasts a prime location, making it an ideal destination for both business and leisure travelers. The strategic positioning ensures easy accessibility and proximity to key attractions in Gurugram.

Luxury Beyond Accommodation: Multi-Cuisine Restaurant, Banquet Halls, and More

Guests can indulge in the culinary delights of the in-house restaurant offering a delectable selection of North Indian and multi-cuisine delights. The hotel also features state-of-the-art wedding and event halls, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for any special occasion.

World-Class Facilities:

The property boasts world-class facilities, including a fully equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts, and a stunning pool area. Guests can also enjoy delectable culinary offerings on site creating a culinary journey that complements the luxury of the surroundings.

The Sky Club: Rooftop Lounge

Perched atop the Rhythm Gurgaon Hotel, the Sky Club – Rooftop Lounge is a captivating haven that transcends the ordinary. With panoramic views of the cityscape, this elevated oasis offers a sophisticated and relaxed ambiance that complements its exclusive position on the hotel’s summit. As the sun dips below the horizon, the Sky Club Rooftop Lounge comes alive with an enchanting atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for intimate gatherings or vibrant social events. Indulge in a curated selection of craft cocktails, fine wines, and delectable bites, all while surrounded by the glittering lights of Gurgaon.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening under the stars or a chic venue for a celebration, the Sky Club Rooftop Lounge at Rhythm Gurgaon Hotel is the epitome of urban elegance, providing an unparalleled experience that lingers in the memory long after the night concludes.

Sky Club provides the perfect setting for a sundowner gathering after work. The venue has multiple halls that are ideal for meetings and social celebrations. The Hotel serves its breakfast at the Rooftop restaurant and it’s the perfect way to start the day. The rooftop pool set against the background of the city skyline, is the best place to cool off after returning back to the hotel at the end of the day.”

“We are excited to introduce Rhythm Gurugram, a jewel in the crown of Rhythm Hospitality. With its strategic location, luxurious offerings, and unparalleled service, we believe Rhythm Gurugram will set new standards in the realm of upscale accommodations. We look forward to welcoming our guests to this exceptional destination in January 2024,” said Ashish Jatia, Executive Director of Rhythm Hospitality.