Archives February 2024

HostBooks, a leading provider of SaaS-based accounting software, has entered into a strategic partnership with Inde Hotel Group to streamline and organize finance and operations across their group hotels.
Inde Hotel Group, facing challenges in managing multiple locations spread across India in the competitive hospitality sector, recognized the need for a transformative solution. Their disjointed operating procedures and decentralized accounting systems posed serious obstacles, hindering unified financial data and effective compliance management.

The implementation of HB Hospitality ERP 360 marked a turning point in Inde Hotel Group’s operational journey, aiming to enhance overall efficiency and streamline operations. The challenges faced by Inde Hotel Group, such as trouble with consolidated financial data and ineffective inventory management, were addressed with the deployment of HB Hospitality ERP 360.

The integrated ERP system facilitated centralized control over operations, optimizing processes and enhancing cooperation among various properties. With centralized purchasing and distribution management, procurement procedures were streamlined, leading to cost savings across the hotel chain.

Rathnaraj Livingston, Director of Global Business head and and Chief Business Officer-HORECA, emphasized the significance of the deployment, stating, “I am overjoyed with collaboration. Our Software will help Inde Group to increase their efficiency and tbi would be able to standardise their operations all over.”

The successful deployment of HB Hospitality ERP 360 at Inde Hotel Group underscores its importance in improving operational effectiveness, generating cost savings, and driving industry expansion. Positioned for sustained success in the competitive hospitality sector, Inde Hotel Group has leveraged HB Hospitality ERP 360 to achieve operational excellence.

VitrA, a pioneer in premium bathroom fittings and sanitaryware, recently concluded its captivating exhibition at India Design ID 2024, held at NSIC Grounds, New Delhi. The event served as a testament to VitrA’s commitment to redefining the standards of bathroom design, offering a captivating blend that seamlessly integrated aesthetic appeal, practicality, and groundbreaking design.

Elevating its presence at the distinguished ID Design Show 2024, VitrA’s booth emerged as a sophisticated showcase, inviting enthusiasts to delve into a curated fusion extending beyond mere products. At the grand event, India Design ID 2024, VitrA took center stage, captivating attendees with its latest offerings and actively engaging design enthusiasts. The exhibition served as a platform for visitors to explore and appreciate the intricate details of VitrA’s premium bathroom solutions, providing a firsthand experience of the brand’s commitment to design excellence and innovation.

Collaborating with globally acclaimed designers and the VitrA Design Team, VitrA has produced exquisite collections. Although the recent event has ended, VitrA continues to lead in shaping the future of bathroom design. The Liquid Collection by Tom Dixon seamlessly blends practicality with contemporary aesthetics, introducing a sense of fluidity to design. The Plural Collection by Terri Pecora, distinguished by its artistic fusion of form and function, serves as a testament to VitrA’s commitment to crafting spaces that go beyond the ordinary. Furthermore, Istanbul by Ross Lovegrove, a tribute to the city’s rich cultural heritage, offers a unique and timeless bathroom experience.

Mr. Tirthankar Sarkar, Sr. Country Manager, VitrA Bathrooms India, provided insights through an impactful quote, “VitrA goes beyond the ordinary, presenting a blend of style, functionality, and innovation, establishing new standards in premium bathroom solutions. India Design served as a dynamic platform, enabling visitors to directly experience groundbreaking innovations and emerging trends in bathroom design. VitrA not only exhibited products but curated an immersive experience that resonated with those aspiring to a refined lifestyle.”

VitrA’s participation in India Design ID 2024 solidifies its status as the sole international brand providing holistic solutions for complete bathroom needs. The brand’s commitment to excellence and forward-thinking design was evident throughout the exhibition, leaving a lasting impression on the discerning audience.

VitrA continues to lead the way in redefining the standards of bathroom design, offering a fusion of style, functionality, and innovation that elevates the everyday living experience.

For those who missed the opportunity to visit the VitrA booth during India Design ID 2024, we invite you to stay connected with VitrA through the website and social media channels for updates on the latest innovations and upcoming events.

Hyderabad, 23rd February 2024 – Synchrony, a premier consumer financial services company in collaboration with Soham Academy, proudly hosted a one-of-a-kind Robotics Hackathon, an innovative event initiated by their Citizenship team.

Embracing a spirit of inclusivity and empowerment, the hackathon provided a platform for 30 students of grades 7 and 8 from 10 schools across Hyderabad and nearby districts to unleash their creativity and engineering prowess. Unlike traditional school projects, this event went beyond cardboard and popsicle sticks. This event embraced advanced technology providing access to 3D-printed components designed and printed on-site. This not only gave the students a taste of real-world engineering practices but also fueled their imaginations to create truly extraordinary models.

“By empowering these future engineers and inventors, we’re not just building robots; we’re building a brighter future where technology serves humanity,”said Kameswari Gangadharabhatla, VP, HR – Asia Diversity & Recruitment COE Leader.“This Robotics Hackathon truly highlighted how these students are using technology to make a difference in the real world. It was incredible to see their dedication at such a young age. By giving them early exposure to STEM fields, this hackathon shaped the future of innovation. It wasn’t just about competition; it was an opportunity for these students to dive deeply into the world of robotics. The dedication and ingenuity they displayed are testaments to the power of early exposure to STEM fields. By opening doors to technology at a young age, we’re indeed shaping the trajectory of innovation,” she added.

The esteemed judges panel, included Mrs. Uttara Kumari, a retired DRDO scientist, Mrs. Phanisree from JNTU’s Electrical and Electronics Engineering department, and Mr. Prashant Tiwari – VP, Solution Architect and a volunteer from Synchrony’s Technology team, ensured that the competition maintained the highest standards of excellence. Their presence at the event highlighted the importance of expertise and mentorship in fostering the growth of these young talents. The Senior Wellness Centre of Zilla Parishad High School, Janampet, Mahbubnagar district, won the first position. The second position was jointly awarded to the projects titled Modern Exhibition of Telangana State Model School and Smart Jewelry Store of Government High School. The third position was shared by Smart Agriculture of Zilla Parishad High School, Indira Nagar, Siddipet School, and Intelligent Baby Monitoring System of Government High School, Devaljhamsingh, Hyderabad.

Prizes were presented by Michael Matthews – SVP, Chief Diversity & Corporate Responsibility Officer during his India visit, along with Kameswari Gangadharabhatla – VP, HR – Asia Diversity & Recruitment COE Leader, and Danielle Brown – VP, Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

These winning projects truly displayed the incredible impact envisioned by these young minds. It is fantastic to see how their ideas align with Synchrony’s dedication to making a positive difference in the world. This Robotics Hackathon marks the beginning of an incredible journey towards an even brighter future. With the potential of young minds and Synchrony’s steadfast commitment to empowerment, we are fostering a path for exciting opportunities and advancements. It is remarkable to witness how this event mirrors the values and dedication of Synchrony in building a resilient community.

Mumbai, 23rd February 2024 – In the realm of medical advancements, the intersection of technology and compassionate care often becomes a beacon of hope for patients facing intricate health challenges. Mrs. Reema’s journey at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, serves as a compelling testament to the transformative power of robotics in overcoming complex orthopedic dilemmas.

Mrs. Reema found herself in the clutches of end-stage arthritis, a condition that rendered even the simplest steps a painful ordeal. Adding to the complexity, an earlier intervention had left a rod embedded in her right thigh bone, presenting a formidable obstacle to the much-needed knee replacement surgeries. The dilemma loomed large: Should she undergo a protracted and arduous surgery to remove the rod?

Dr. Manan Shah, Consultant Joint Replacement surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals Mumbai Central, devised a meticulous plan tailored to Mrs. Reema’s unique situation. The strategy unfolded in two phases, addressing each knee with a thoughtful approach that combined conventional and robotic surgical techniques.

The first phase involved a conventional knee replacement on Mrs. Reema’s left side. This procedure allowed her to recover and regain mobility without the need for extensive measures. It was a pivotal step in preparing her for the subsequent challenges posed by the rod in her right thigh bone.

The second phase marked the introduction of cutting-edge technology – the Stryker Mako robot. This state-of-the-art robotic system offered a revolutionary solution by enabling knee replacement surgery on the right side without the necessity of removing the embedded rod. The precision and adaptability of the Stryker Mako robot allowed Dr. Manan Shah and his team to navigate the intricate contours of Mrs. Reema’s anatomy, tailoring the procedure to match her natural bone shape with unparalleled accuracy.

The decision to utilize robotic assistance not only spared Mrs. Reema from the rigors of an unnecessary surgery to remove the rod but also facilitated a level of precision that traditional methods might struggle to achieve. The robot’s ability to fine-tune the surgical plan ensured a personalized and optimized outcome for the patient.

In the aftermath of this innovative approach, Mrs. Reema has emerged triumphant. With newfound comfort and confidence, she has seamlessly reintegrated into her routine life, free from the shackles of debilitating knee pain. The success of this case not only reflects the skill and expertise of Dr. Manan Shah but also underscores the commitment of Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, to embrace advancements that enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.

The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of its flagship exhibition, the 22nd IAAPI Amusement Expo, scheduled to take place from 27th to 29th February 2024 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. Supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of MSME, Government of India and Bihar Tourism as a partner state, this event serves as a testament to the exponential growth of the Amusement, Leisure, and Entertainment industry in India.

The current market size of the amusement industry in India is valued at 11,500 crores, with a projected CAGR of 10.20%. The industry is expected to reach a staggering 25,000 crores by 2030, reflecting the nation’s growing appetite for recreational activities. Building on the immense success of previous years, this year’s expo promises to be grander than ever, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders under one roof.

With over 165 exhibitors from India and 35 overseas companies participating, including representatives from Australia, Canada, China, Dubai, Germany, Italy, Russia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the USA, the expo offers unparalleled networking opportunities. Attendees can engage with decision-makers from Amusement Parks, Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Family Entertainment Centres, showcasing new products, exploring joint ventures, and witnessing the latest industry trends.

The event will feature concurrent events such as the IAC Connect conference, Networking Evening, Business Excellence Award, and Training Programme, providing attendees with a comprehensive experience. Moreover, participants can gain expert insights by participating in discussions on vital industry issues and learning from the experiences of industry stalwarts.

Reflecting on the industry’s growth, Mr. Srikanth Goenka, Chairman of IAAPI, stated, “The Indian amusement sector, with its significant growth potential, is an exciting space for innovation and development. The IAAPI Expo 2024 is not just an expo but a catalyst for new opportunities and collaborations.”

Mr. ND Rana, Chairman for the amusement expo, added, “The Indian amusement park industry is still in its infancy, with enormous growth potential. IAAPI aims to bring together members of the industry across India to contribute to this ever-growing market. This year, the show floor area will exceed one Lakh sq. ft, and we have already received a great response, with thousands of participation requests and registrations from delegates across the country.”

Don’t miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to be a part of the 22nd IAAPI Amusement Expo 2024 and explore the future of the amusement industry in India.

IAAPI, established in 1999, has been a pivotal force in shaping the amusement and entertainment industry in India. With over 500 members, including SMEs, park operators, and equipment manufacturers, it serves as the voice and advocate for the sector’s advancement.

Join us at IAAPI Expo 2024 to experience the evolution of India’s amusement industry and to be part of its future.

Pune: Kirloskar Institute of Management (KIM) proudly conducted the highly anticipated fourth edition of its national-level case analysis competition, KIRIT 4.0 – the ultimate corporate case-study challenge. The KIRIT 4.0 semi-finals were organized on February 19th in Harihar, Karnataka, and the grand finale took place on February 21st in Pune, Maharashtra. This event emerged as a premier platform for the convergence of young managerial talent, providing participants with a unique opportunity to showcase their critical thinking prowess in addressing real-world managerial challenges.

KIRIT 4.0 extended a warm invitation to aspiring minds from diverse academic backgrounds. Open to 4-year full-time B.Tech/BE, 2-year full-time regular PGDM/MBA, and 3-year full-time undergraduate students, the competition offered a level playing field for participants to showcase their ingenuity and problem-solving acumen. Teams comprised three members each, with members from the same institute, albeit not necessarily from the same academic year.

Teams from prestigious institutions such as Indian Institute of Technology (IITs), Indian Institute of Management (IIM), B-schools, and various universities across India participated. In total, 24,699 students from 29 states registered, with 550 teams shortlisted for case analysis. Finally, 12 teams were selected for the semi-finals, and 8 teams advanced to the grand finale.

The KIRIT 4.0 journey unfolded through a series of rigorous rounds:
– Round 1: Online Quiz
– Round 2: Online Case Study Submission
– Round 3: On-Ground Semi-Final at Harihar Campus – 12 Teams
– Round 4: On-Ground Finale at Pune Campus – 8 Teams

As participants progressed through each stage, they were evaluated on analytical prowess, strategic thinking, and the ability to devise innovative solutions to complex managerial dilemmas.

The proud winners of KIRIT 4.0 are Yash Parte, Gunjan Ghanwat, and Somesh Shinde from SCM HRD, Pune, who received a cash prize of Rs. 100,000. They will also have the opportunity to appear for an exclusive interview for an internship at the esteemed Kirloskar Group. Himaangi Gupta, Harshit, and Shitiz from Shaheed Sukhdev College of Business Studies (SSCBS), University of Delhi (DU), Delhi, were the runner-up team who received a cash prize of Rs. 75,000/-

The Vice-President of the governing council and the Director of KIM congratulated the winning participants, commending their exceptional performance in this fiercely competitive event.

Ms. Aditi Kirloskar, Vice-President, Governing Council Kirloskar Institute of Management, expressed her thoughts on the occasion, stating, “At KIM, our commitment lies in nurturing the finest talent by providing a modern approach to education that is directly applicable to the ever-evolving business landscape.”

She added, “Through these initiatives, we strive to instil in our students a spirit of innovation, collaboration, and excellence that will serve them well throughout their professional journeys. I am proud of the dedication and passion demonstrated by our faculty and staff in delivering a world-class educational experience at KIMs.”

The event was supported by the Kirloskar Institute of Management (KIM), Kirloskar Industries Limited (KIL), Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited (KOEL), Kirloskar Pneumatic Company Limited (KPCL), Kirloskar Ferrous Industries Limited (KFIL), Kirloskar Chillers Private Limited (KCPL), and ARKA Fincap.

New Delhi, 23rd February 2024: Noise, India’s leading connected lifestyle brand, has teamed up with renowned graffiti artist Mooz to create a captivating graffiti art showcasing its latest TWS, Noise Buds N1. This collaboration is showcased in the brand’s latest digital film, highlighting the seamless blend of both creativity and innovation embodied by Noise Buds N1.

Set against the backdrop of the wall in Ulwe, Navi Mumbai, the digital film follows Mooz’s journey as he unleashes his creative vision after plugging in the latest TWS, inviting viewers into his world to witness the transformation of his artistic concept into reality. Seamlessly blending his signature style with the bold chrome finish of Noise Buds N1, Mooz intricately designs the latest product, with each stroke mirrored on the wall in real-time.

Through this collaboration with Mooz, Noise aims to bring together art and technology to create something truly extraordinary. Engineered to deliver exceptional sound in a premium chrome design, Noise Buds N1 is set to compliment users’ lifestyles by allowing them to stand out with the new elevated audio experience. With a playback time of up to 40 hours, the new TWS from Noise is ergonomically designed to suit users’ fashion with the segment’s most aspirational features.

As Noise Buds N1 is set to go on sale on 27th February, the digital film offers an exciting preview of what’s to come. Stay tuned as Noise continues to redefine the landscape of connected living, one innovation at a time.

Bhuj, 23rd February 2024 : Ensuring road safety is the topmost priority of HMSI. To promote responsible behavior on the roads and to aid in creating a more conscientious and safety-oriented society, the company frequently conducts Road Safety Awareness Campaigns across various regions of the country. HMSI firmly believes that such campaigns encourage individuals to adopt safe driving practices, fostering a culture of caution and consideration on the roads. One such campaign was recently held in the city of Bhuj which left an indelible mark on the participants. On the premises of Army Public School, HMSI saw an enthusiastic participation of more than 2200 school students and staff members.

HMSI firmly believes that imparting road safety awareness at an early age is imperative, and thus, promotes the inclusion of road safety educational curricula at both school and college levels. Understanding that young minds are receptive to learning, the company aims to empower the next generation with the knowledge and skills necessary for navigating roads responsibly. The road safety awareness campaign consists of highly interactive and engaging activities such as Road Safety Games, Safe Road Theory Session, Road Signage and Riding posture training.

Since inception, in the state of Gujarat, HMSI has imparted education to nearly 3 lakh adults and children, focusing on promoting responsible road usage and cultivating safe riding habits.

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

In 2021, Honda globally made a vision statement for the year 2050 where it will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles. In India HMSI is working in line with this vision and the Government of India direction of reducing fatalities to half by 2030.

One critical aspect of achieving this goal is inculcating a positive mindset towards road safety in our children by the year 2030 and continuing to educate them thereafter. Road safety education at schools and Colleges is not only to create awareness but to inculcate a safety culture in young minds and turn them to be the safety ambassador. It empowers future generations to become responsible and significantly contribute to a safer society.

HMSI wants to be a company that Society wants to exist and is strongly focusing on Road safety awareness to all sections of society with unique ideas catering to each segment from school kids to Corporates and society at large.

HMSI’s set of skilled safety instructors conducts daily programs at our 10 adopted traffic training parks (TTP) across India and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC) to make road safety education accessible to every part of society, and the initiative has already reached over 5.7 million Indians. HMSI’s National Road Safety Awareness program made learning fun yet scientific through:

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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

Hyderabad/ Greater Noida, 23rd February 2024: South Asia’s leading travel show SATTE 2024, organized by Informa Markets in India, kick-started today at the India Expo Mart, Greater Noida, Delhi NCR. The three-day event was inaugurated by Smt. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary Tourism Govt. of India and Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director of Informa Markets – India, along with several other dignitaries.

SATTE 2024 is now set to begin its three-day celebration from the 22nd to the 24th of February 2024 and will spotlight the theme of ‘Inclusive and Sustainable Tourism’, marking its 31st edition as a pivotal milestone in the global tourism industry.

Smt. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary Tourism Govt. of India, commending SATTE’s accomplishment, extolled its profound impact on the trajectory of the travel industry. Highlighting its pivotal role, she stated, “The resurgence of South Asia is nothing short of remarkable. We witness an upsurge in numbers coupled with an enriching diversity, showcasing the exponential growth of each country in the region.” Recognizing the region’s abundant heritage, both tangible and intangible, she also suggested, “We must harness SATTE as a platform to champion our heritage, fostering enduring collaborations among nations within a structured framework.”

On the occasion of the founding day at Saudi Arabia today, Mr. Alhasan Ali Aldabbagh, President – Asia Pacific, Saudi Tourism Authority, extended his regards and addressed the gathering and conveyed his enthusiasm for the inaugural day of SATTE, noting its particular significance as Saudi Arabia commemorates its Founding Day today. He highlighted the crucial role of SATTE 2024 in bolstering ties with the Indian tourism market. He emphasized, “Aligned with our 2030 vision, we aim to attract over 7.5 million Indian travelers to Saudi Arabia, positioning it as our premier source market. To achieve this, we have streamlined various aspects of the journey, including visa applications, permits, hotel accommodations, and flight bookings, for Indian travelers.”

Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director of Informa Markets – India, in his address, mentioned, “As the Year’s first major international Tourism Show, SATTE 2024 has garnered an unprecedented response from the Indian and global travel markets. Committed to providing a 360-degree role in delving into India’s thriving travel industry, we unite the entire tourism value chain for networking and exploration in the presence and with support from key government associations and forums.” He proceeded, “With India’s visitor export earnings projected to hit US $50 billion by 2028, SATTE 2024 serves as the cornerstone for achieving Indian tourism’s goals. Our focus on inbound tourism and Vision@2047 ensures a platform for leading public and private players to drive impactful, solutions-centered changes and innovations.”

The global platform of SATTE 2024 features prominent partner countries such as Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Mauritius, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Jamaica, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Maldives, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Danang Province of Vietnam, Chonburi Provincial of Thailand, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan among others. Saudi Arabia is the Premium Partner Country for the event.

David Drda previously worked as an Account Manager for sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management.

(St. Louis, Mo., Feb. 23, 2024) David Drda was recently hired as an Alliance Coordinator for Valley Insurance Agency Alliance (VIAA), a cohesive family of more than 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois. His responsibilities include generating a systematic approach to information gathering, analysis, and problem solving. Drda will also assist alliance member agencies with system processing and carrier code updates.

Drda brings 12 years of insurance industry experience to the alliance. Prior to joining VIAA, Drda served as an Account Manager for sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management where he helped clients with policy services. He previously worked at various Illinois insurance agencies in numerous capacities. Drda earned his Associate of Arts degree and Associate of Science degree in Business Management from Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, Ill.

“We moved David from Powers to VIAA based upon his strong detail-oriented skill set,” said Valley Insurance Agency Alliance’s co-founder Henry Powers. “Our alliance continues to grow its membership, and David is the ideal candidate to work with onboarding new agencies to ensure efficiency and profitability.”

Founded in 2006, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance generates more than $600 million in written premium and is the regional founding member SIAA – The Agent Alliance, a $12.5 billion national insurance network. Founded in 1991, sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.viaa4u.com.