Archives February 2024

Mumbai, 16th February, 2024: PayNearby, India’s leading branchless banking and digital network has unveiled the Digital Naari platform that aims to generate long-term self-employment for women across Bharat. This program is designed to provide additional income generation opportunities for women in rural and semi-urban areas, recognising their pivotal role as equal contributors in the nation’s growth.

Aligned with the Government’s ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, the platform seeks to onboard and uplift 1 lakh women by the end of 2025, facilitating their economic empowerment. The goal is to help women business owners, single women, and women with literacy challenges to have sustainable livelihood opportunity while enhancing their financial well-being and fostering self-reliance.

Through our Digital Naari platform, the uplifted banker didi can provide a diverse range of financial and digital services to the masses. The banker didi will have the flexibility to offer services at her convenience in terms of time, location (from home/store), and product preferences. Catering to the needs of rural women, the services include cash withdrawal, bank account opening, money transfer, recharge, assurance (insurance + assets), credit, and e-commerce, facilitating their path to financial literacy and financial independence.

Currently, PayNearby has a strong network of over 10,000+ women collectively steering more than INR 1000 crores of transaction annually. The Digital Naari platform aims to broaden this network by partnering with organizations, self-help groups, and individuals dedicated to promoting sustainable livelihood among rural women.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Anand Kumar Bajaj, Founder, MD & CEO, PayNearby, said, “In the journey of a nation’s progress, true advancement is achieved when women stand as equal contributors. At PayNearby, we recognize women as the GDP reserve of our nation, wielding the power to drive social and economic change. It is our privilege to participate in the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, dedicated to unleashing their potential and contributing to a sustainable future. Our collaborations with various livelihood missions, including Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission (UPSRLM), Rajasthan Grameen Aajeevika Vikas Parishad (Rajeevika), Grameen Foundation India, are propelling countless women towards economic independence and societal recognition through our Digital Naari app. We extend an open invitation to like-minded institutions and self-help groups to join us in maximizing the reach of this initiative and empowering women.”

Jayatri Dasgupta, CMO, PayNearby, stated, “Launching the Digital Naari platform marks a crucial stride in fostering economic empowerment for women across Bharat. We believe that economic empowerment is key to women’s self-reliance and their transformative journey. With ‘Digital Naari’ program we are sowing the seeds of strength, resilience, and self-reliance across the nation by giving every woman in the country a sustainable livelihood and an opportunity to lead life at her own terms. Sashakt Naari, Sashakt Desh.”

16th February 2024: École Ducasse is delighted to announce its partnership with Hectar, a pioneer in the development of new sustainable agricultural models and firmly committed to regenerative agriculture that prioritizes soil conservation. This collaboration is a new step for École Ducasse, which aims to play a pioneering role in the integration of sustainable nutrition into culinary education. 

Forward-thinking training for a sustainable future 

In June 2024, École Ducasse and Hectar will launch a Professional Training course on the theme of “Bringing Biodiversity and Sustainable Food to the Plate“. Hectar is an association dedicated to accelerating the agricultural transition and supporting start-ups in this field across Europe. Hectar also creates initiatives backed by major groups such as Parfums Christian Dior. The two-day professional training course scheduled for 20 and 21 June will enable chefs to better identify the role they need to play in the transition to healthier, more sustainable food and will cover key topics such as soil regeneration, climate issues and the importance of the chef-producer relationship. It will also include an immersive visit to the Hectar pilot farm, as well as conversations with renowned chefs who have initiated new forms of collaboration with producers and implemented self-production “kitchen-garden-chef” approaches.

All École Ducasse Bachelors and career conversion programs will also be enriched with a two-day module on sustainable food. This addition will form an integral part of the healthy and natural cooking module from 2024 onwards and will focus on plant-based cuisine as well as territorial diversity, with an immersive visit to the Hectar pilot farm and talks by experts on the themes of soil regeneration, permaculture and fermentation.

Through this collaboration, École Ducasse and Hectar are committed to training chefs who are not only talented but also involved in a responsible transition towards more sustainable food, keenly aware of their environmental impact as part of their professional practice.

The vision nurtured by Alain Ducasse – Founder École Ducasse, Michelin-starred chef and emblematic figure in the world gastronomy – inspires the spirit of this partnership: “Well-sourced produce is at once good to eat, economically good and good for the planet”.

Elise Masurel, Managing Director École Ducasse, comments: “We are delighted that this long-term partnership with Hectar has come to fruition, as it aligns perfectly with our desire to train civic-minded chefs who must be fully involved in the transition to a sustainable and healthy diet. This partnership is a major step towards a form of gastronomy that respects, celebrates and preserves our planet.”

“Hectar is delighted to be involved in the training of future chefs, as it is important for us to be able to contribute to the dissemination of knowledge in order to foster links between those who work the land and those who enhance its produce”, said Hectar Founder Audrey Bourolleau.

Chennai, February 16th, 2024: The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) franchise Chennai Singams unveiled their logo for the highly anticipated inaugural edition of the league. Rajdipkumar Gupta, Sandipkumar Gupta- promoters of Route Mobile Ltd and Actor Suriya Sivakumar are the co-owners of Chennai Singams, a Chennai-based franchise.

 The logo with a roaring lion depicts the great strength and valour of Chennai. The standout logo perfectly aligns with ISPL’s mission to merge the spirit of the streets with the grandeur of stadium cricket. Additionally, the highlighted yellow colour in the logo visually depicts the radiance of Chennai.

 Rajdipkumar Gupta, Co-Owner of Chennai Singams said “Both I and Sandip besides being entrepreneurs are very passionate towards sports and the same reflects in our ownership of multiple clubs in MCA that have produced talented players like Sudhir Naik, Zaheer Khan, Wasim Jaffer, Rajesh Pawar, Raju Sutar, Nilesh Kulkarni besides our ownership of North Mumbai Panthers that plays at the Mumbai T20 Premiere League and Saraswati Sports Complex in Mumbai that provides good sporting amenities.

 Additionally, he stated, “Women’s Cricket is another focus area we would like to develop and currently we have set up a team via National Cricket Club from which 5 women and 5 men are part of the Mumbai State team in BCCI”

 ISPL is scheduled to kick off from March 6 th to March 15 th 2024, in Mumbai, The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) is India’s first-ever T10 tennis ball cricket tournament. Promising an enthralling display of cricketing brilliance, the tournament will feature 19 high-intensity matches, boasting a line-up of six teams – Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, and Srinagar.

National, 16 February 2024: Hungama Digital Media Entertainment Pvt. Ltd, a leading digital entertainment company, and BharatBox, the cutting-edge Web3 solution provider join hands to present a groundbreaking fusion of music, technology, and fan engagement by a live concert featuring the incredibly talented Ritviz. Known for his soul-stirring performances, Ritviz is set to take the stage at Phoenix Citadel, Indore, on the 17th of February 2024, starting at 5 pm.

From chart-toppers like ‘Udd Gaye’ and ‘Barso’ to the soulful ‘Liggi,’ Ritviz’s music is a fusion of electronic beats, Indian classical influences, and captivating vocals, captivating fans across India and around the world. His unique musical blend has garnered him a massive fan following, and this live performance is set to be a spellbinding showcase of his exceptional talent. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable evening filled with the magic of Ritviz’s music – an experience that is bound to resonate long after the beats fade away.

Soumini Paul, Senior Vice President of Hungama Digital Media said, “We’re excited for a special musical concert in Indore. This partnership with BharatBox aligns seamlessly with our commitment to delivering unparalleled entertainment. With Ritviz’s mesmerizing musical prowess at the helm, this concert promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. Join us for an evening filled with pure enjoyment, as we collectively embark on a transformative adventure you won’t want to miss.”

Adding on, singer-songwriter Ritviz shared, “I am thrilled by the electrifying energy of concerts —it’s an anticipation I eagerly embrace. Collaborating with Hungama and BharatBox fills me with joy as I prepare to connect with fans for an unforgettable night of music and revelry. I’m excited to curate an atmosphere brimming with pure joy and celebration for everyone to enjoy.”

Karan Keswani, CEO, BharatBox said, “Our collaboration with Hungama at Ritviz’s concert is just the beginning of our efforts to integrate collectables for concert visitors, and we will also be adding future utility to the collectables for the Hungama World located in The Sandbox. Music enthusiasts, join us for an evening filled with unforgettable melodies and an electric atmosphere.”

New Delhi,16th Feb 2024- The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) jointly with PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) and Hotel Association of India will host “Travel for Life; Tourism Sustainability Summit, an event set to redefine the path of sustainable tourism in India. Under the ambit of the Ministry of Tourism’s Travel for Life program, the summit will be held on 8th March 2024, 10.00 am at Hotel Le-Meridien, New Delhi. The Summit will address crucial aspects of sustainable tourism, aligning with global imperatives for environmental protection and climate action. This event is supported by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, (UK), Niti Aayog, Invest India and KPMG as Knowledge Partner. This initiative stems from India’s commitment, particularly highlighted during its G20 Presidency, to foster a tourism sector that champions sustainability and resilience.

This Summit aims to address key aspects of tourism sustainability, particularly focusing on the “Travel for Life” program, which emphasizes responsible and sustainable tourism practices, aligning with global efforts for a greener and more eco-friendly travel industry. The initiative shall further strengthen India’s position as a “global tourism and hospitality destination” besides fostering cooperation at national, bilateral, regional & sub-regional, multilateral and international levels. This Summit shall bring together various important stakeholders from the government, industry, diplomatic fraternity, international agencies, practitioners and media at one platform to ideate and make a forward-looking action plan for “tourism sustainability” at a global scale.

Through the sharing of best practices and exemplary case studies from global sources, stakeholders will be inspired and informed, contributing to informed decision-making. It also proposes actionable frameworks aligned with the innovative Goa Roadmap for Tourism while highlighting the indispensable role of technology and green investments in advancing sustainability within the industry.

According to Mr Pradeep Shetty, President of FHRAI, “The Travel for Life Summit marks a pivotal moment for India’s tourism and hospitality industry. As stewards of this vibrant sector, we recognize the imperative to embrace sustainability as a guiding principle. Through this summit, we aim to galvanise stakeholders towards a collective vision of responsible tourism that not only enriches visitor experiences but also safeguards our planet for future generations. We also expect that the knowledge report published by KPMG at the Summit on national and international best practices on Sustainable Tourism will herald a new paradigm shift in tourism & hospitality in India”.

FHRAI PHDCCI and HAI invite all stakeholders to join this landmark event and contribute to shaping the future of sustainable tourism in India. Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of North Eastern Region has consented to be the Chief Guest of the Summit where Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa and Former CEO, Niti Aayog will be the Guest of Honour.

Ms. Manish Saxena, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Pradeep Shetty, President, FHRAI; Sanjeev Agrawal, President, PHDCCI Yugal Joshi, Mission Director, Niti Aayog; Rohit Khosla, EVP Operations, North, IHCL; H C Vinayaka, Vice President, Technical, EHS & Sustainability, ITC Hotels; Sachin Mylavarapu, Senior Area Director of Operations-South Asia, Marriot International Inc.; Aradhana Lal, Senior Vice President (Sustainability & ESG), Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd; Akanksha Singh, Global Sustainability Manager, Radisson Hotel Group; Harish Chandra, Managing Director, HotelKey are some of the eminent speakers and panellists that will take part in the discussions at the Summit.

The event will also have a host of international speakers including H.E. Amb Dr Shankar Prasad Sharma, Ambassador of Nepal to India H.E. Amb Major General Vetsop Namgyel, Ambassador of Bhutan to India, H.E. Mr Dato’ Muzafar Shah Mustafa, High Commissioner of Malaysia to India, Philip Halanen, Head of Sourcing and Sustainability, EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Glenn Mandziuk, CEO, Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, UK

NEW DELHI—February 16, 2024—The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) and the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) today welcomed the release of a report evaluating India’s existing semiconductor ecosystem and policy frameworks and offering recommendations to facilitate longer-term strategic development of complementary semiconductor ecosystems in the U.S. and India. The report, titled “Assessing India’s Readiness to Assume a Greater Role in Global Semiconductor Value Chains,” was authored by the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF). It was commissioned by SIA and IESA through the U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) to inform government efforts to deepen commercial ties in this strategic sector.

“This is an exciting moment in history for the semiconductor industry and for strategic cooperation between the U.S. and India,” said John Neuffer, SIA president and CEO. “India is already an important link in the global semiconductor supply chain and has the opportunity to expand its role in our sector. While global competition for semiconductor investment is fierce, India’s value proposition is strong, and I’m confident it can grow even stronger with the right mix of government policies.”

Ashok Chandak, president of IESA, stated, “Given its rapidly expanding domestic market, a well-developed design ecosystem, supportive government policies, and concerted industry collaboration to tap global markets, the present juncture presents a unique opportunity for the establishment of semiconductor manufacturing in India. The report underscores India’s tremendous progress towards becoming a prime destination for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, capitalizing on its robust semiconductor design ecosystem.”

The ITIF report concludes India’s value proposition as an investment destination for high-tech industries is promising, and identifies opportunities in India to further improve its policy, regulatory, and business environment to better compete for investment from semiconductor companies seeking to diversify their supply chains. In particular, it recommends exploring further work in the following areas to strengthen India’s semiconductor competitiveness:

· Advance U.S.-India cooperation on semiconductors through a partnership under the CHIPS for America International Technology Security and Innovation Fund (ITSI);

· Create a pilot visa program to facilitate the circulation of skilled workers between the U.S. and India, as a potential deliverable of the iCET;

· Advance policy reforms to lower the cost of doing business for semiconductor companies in India, including offering tax breaks to chip companies, reducing customs administration burdens, and expediting clearance times for goods entering the country;

· Establish cross-sector partnerships with higher-education institutions to grow India’s semiconductor-ready workforce; and

· Facilitate robust and ongoing consultation with semiconductor industry stakeholders.

An event launching the report will take place on Feb. 22 at 9 a.m. EST at ITIF (700 K St NW, Suite 600 Washington DC, 20001).

Mumbai, India 15 February 2024: Jon Austin, Co-founder of Supermassive, Sydney Australia, and Kate Stanners, Chairwoman and Global Chief Creative Officer, Saatchi & Saatchi have been appointed as Jury Chair of Branded Content & Entertainment category and Jury Chair of Film Cinema Digital OTT (above 1 min duration) category respectively, at The ABBY One Show Awards 2024.

Jon Austin, Co-founder of Supermassive has been appointed to the Jury of ABBY One Show Awards 2024 to chair the Branded Content & Entertainment category 

Co-founder of Supermassive, Jon is a creative leader whose work has been recognized at every major advertising awards show in the world for PR, entertainment, social and influencer, music, media, and audio. Prior to co-founding Supermassive, Jon was the Executive Creative Director of Host Havas Australia. With over 15 years of work experience, Jon has helped numerous ambitious and iconic brands achieve amazing things. 

With a background in commercial music, which saw Jon playing on stages around the world, his passion for popular culture has helped him accrue far more interesting accolades than the usual industry fare. His creations, a true crime podcast for the AFP, and a Christmas carol charted at #1, with the carol still being taught in NZ schools.

Jon‘s modern contributions to the tourism industry are significant. He launched a world-first gamified model of ecotourism, that has been praised by global policymakers as a tourism game-changer. Jon also created a global brand platform for Tourism Fiji that brought new levels of authenticity and visitors to the islands. A writer of two Gold Albums, Jon has also helped get a five-year overdue release date from George RR Martin for Winds of Winter.

Kate Stanners, Chairwoman and Global Chief Creative Officer of Saatchi & Saatchi joins ABBY One Show Awards 2024 as Jury Chair of Film Cinema Digital OTT (above 1 min duration) category

Kate Stanners is Chairwoman and Global Chief Creative Officer at Saatchi & Saatchi. Having been at Saatchi & Saatchi for 18 years, she has been pivotal in transforming the agency. By harnessing the unreasonable power of creativity, Kate has driven the agency’s spirit of Nothing Is Impossible to deliver impossible outcomes and revolutionize clients’ businesses.

Based at Saatchi & Saatchi’s London headquarters, Kate oversees Saatchi & Saatchi’s creative output, the creative talent of the network, and global clients that include Visa, UBS, Beiersdorf, and Deutsche Telekom to name a few. Prior to Saatchi, Kate was a Founding Partner of the groundbreaking agency, St Lukes in 1995 – famous for its revolutionary working practices, as well as progressive work.

Recognized as one of AdAge’s ‘Women to Watch’, she also sits on the customer experience council of the V&A museum and was honored to be made President of D&AD in 2019. She is a member of WACL, an association for the most influential women in the UK Communications industry.

The Abby One Show Awards 2024 will be held on the 29^th, 30^th, and 31^st of May during Goafest 2024.

For more details on The ABBY Awards, visit https://abbyawards.com/

Bengaluru, 16th February 2024: SBI Life Insurance, one of the most trusted life insurers in the country, continues to reinforce the need for accomplishing one’s aspirations while taking care of familial responsibilities with its #ApneLiye ApnoKe Liye campaign, relayed again this year. The thought is to keep inspiring every Indian consumer to champion the spirit of ‘Responsible Ambition’ and encourage them to explore their own ‘wants’ while securing the ‘needs’ of their loved ones. The campaign continues to underscore the delicate balance between personal aspirations and familial responsibilities thereby inspiring every individual nationwide to adopt a ‘Responsible Ambition’.

New Delhi, 16th February 2024 – Mobikasa, a top-rated web and app development company, demonstrates its dedication to promoting digital inclusivity via its Digital Accessibility vertical. This initiative focuses on making digital assets, such as websites, mobile apps, and PDFs accessible to people with disabilities. Clients can benefit from a range of tools and methods provided by Mobikasa for accessibility audits and remediation, including checks for keyboard, contrast, zoom, and other essential parameters.

Mobikasa adapts emerging trends in digital accessibility that promise a future wherein the internet is genuinely inclusive. AI-powered solutions, coupled with the rise of immersive technologies such as AR/VR, are at the forefront of these trends. Automatic image descriptions using computer vision, haptic feedback, sensory interfaces, spatial audio design, and Voice User Interfaces (VUIs) are all set to transform the digital landscape, making it intuitive and accessible for users with varying abilities.

Mobikasa provides accessibility training and consultation services to help organizations become digitally inclusive. Experts certified by the International Association of Accessibility Specialists (IAAP) develop brand-specific code playbooks and offer guidance and technical training. The company actively engages with industry experts through participation in global conferences, seminars, forums, etc.

Mr. Prateek Sachdev, Managing Partner at Mobikasa, emphasized the company’s commitment to digital inclusivity. He stated, “Our dedicated business vertical aims to empower corporations to make their digital assets accessible to users with disabilities. Our comprehensive accessibility testing and remediation solutions, underscore our determination to create a truly inclusive digital world.”

Mobikasa’s accessibility experts stand out for their technical knowledge, accessibility guidelines adherence, and user-centered approach. They function as Accessibility Advocates, not just auditors, providing clients with comprehensive digital accessibility solutions.

Mobikasa remains at the forefront of digital accessibility, ensuring that its digital experiences are inclusive for all users.

New Delhi: The inaugural International Inclusion Alliance Conference 2024, held at the prestigious Stein Auditorium, Indian Habitat Centre, on the 15th of February 2024 marked a historic moment in the global pursuit of inclusivity and diversity. Organized by Global DEI Specialist Shruti Swaroop and Dr. Neeraj A Sharma, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Palau to India and Co-Founder of IIA, the event brought together esteemed diplomats, corporate leaders, academicians, and advocates from around the world to engage in critical discussions and collaborative action.

The presence of Chief Guest Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Culture, added to the significance of the event. Her support underscored the government’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity on both national and international levels. Addressing the confluence she said, “International inclusion Alliance, such beautiful words and I was reflecting that at the heart of our mission as a country is inclusion. We strive to embrace everyone, leaving no one behind. In our pursuit, we recognise the myriad ways people can be marginalised – economically, politically, socially. Bridging these divides is paramount. At the recent G20 summit hosted by India, we amplified the voices of the marginalised through a Global South Summit, ensuring their concerns shape global policies. With our rich experience, India champions inclusion, lifting millions out of poverty, advancing healthcare, and sharing vaccines with the world. Inclusion isn’t just a concept, it’s our ethos, rooted in our Constitution and civilisation’s values. Together, let’s create a more inclusive, cooperative world and that is what the IIA conference is also about that inclusion within India can be a template internationally.”

Shruti Swaroop, hosted a panel discussion about Societal Inclusion with Panelists: Ms. Geeta L, Founder-President of Swayam Foundation,Filmmaker, Author and Scriptwriter, D.r Sabyasachi Saha, Associate Professor – RIS, Ms. Pooja O. Murada, Principal Lead, SM Sehgal Foundation, Ms. Manisha Gulati, Former Chairperson Punjab State Women’s Commission, Dr. Nirupama Prakash, Director of Amity institute of Social Sciences, Amity University – Noida.

Shruti Swaroop, Founder, Embrace Consulting and InclusiBuild, Co-founder of ERTZ and IIA expressed gratitude to all panelists for their contributions and emphasised the importance of sustained efforts in driving positive change. She said, “This is something very close to my heart, stemming from my personal experience where I never perceived differences based on gender or background. However, upon moving to the UK, I encountered division based on nationality. So we are often categorised by gender, nationality, education, appearance, and affiliations. Let’s discuss on the ways to dismantle these perceptions and use media platforms to promote societal inclusion and create a platform for people to speak and create that awareness. Let’s look at social inclusion with policies that are macro level that we can create that can play into a more inclusive society. I believe inclusion starts young and inclusion begins at home. Are we truly inclusive if we label individuals? We must challenge these societal norms. Whether at home or work, inclusivity should be consistent. Let’s reshape societal parameters and embrace diversity. The International Inclusion Alliance Conference 2024 has laid the foundation for continued collaboration and action towards a more inclusive world.”

His Excellency Dr. Neeraj A Sharma, Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Palau to India and Co-Founder of IIA shared, “The International Inclusion Alliance champions a world where everyone, regardless of borders, enjoys social, gender, and financial equality. By fostering awareness and collaboration with global entities, we strive to cultivate inclusive environments and workspaces. At our inaugural conference, representatives from diverse nations, esteemed leaders, and government officials came together to share insights and perspectives on inclusion. We’re privileged to have had Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi ji grace our event and share her insights on inclusivity.”

His Excellency, H.E. Mr. David Pine, High Commissioner of New Zealand to India shard, “Inclusion is a vital road map for society. From village dialogues on sanitation to international finance complexities, communication is key. Hosting a distinguished Māori judge from New Zealand, the first indigenous judge on High Court in a long history, I learned that in disagreements, fair processes matter most. In a world of varied perspectives, striving for perfect justice is futile. We must continue having conversations on justice, ensuring that all voices are heard. Conferences like today signify progress, guiding us towards the right path of inclusivity and understanding. Congratulations to the organisers for this terrific. Let’s keep conversing, for inclusivity knows no bounds.”

Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Honorary Consul Generals representing various countries shared unique insights and experiences on fostering inclusivity within their borders. Their contributions enriched the dialogue and provided valuable lessons for global cooperation. The conference served as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration across borders.