Archives March 2024

India, 9th March 2024- T-Hub, India’s leading startup incubator, in collaboration with The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department within the Ministry of Science and Technology in India has today inaugurated one-of-its-kind Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Technology Hub (MATH). This momentous occasion marks a significant stride towards leveraging AI and ML to propel India’s technological prowess onto the global stage.

With its strategic vision to foster AI innovation, create job opportunities, and provide a conducive ecosystem for AI startups, MATH has set ambitious goals to propel India’s AI market to new heights. The Centre of Excellence aims to generate over 500 AI-related jobs by 2025 and nurture more than 150 startups annually, positioning itself as the go-to destination for AI-driven initiatives in the country.

India’s AI market is poised to reach $17 billion by 2027 with a CAGR of 25-35%. In sync with this growth trajectory, MATH’s inauguration as a Centre of Excellence represents a pivotal step forward in advancing AI and ML in India. The launch event, held at T-Hub witnessed esteemed dignitaries including Sridhar Babu Duddilla, Minister for IT, E&C, I&C Government of Telangana, Rahul Paith, CEO of MATH, Jayesh Ranjan, IAS, Principal Secretary, IT, E&C and I&C Department, Government of Telangana, BVR Mohan Reddy, Board Member of T-Hub and Founder & Chairman of Cyient, and Mahankali Srinivas Rao (MSR), CEO of T-Hub.

Mahankali Srinivas Rao, CEO, T-Hub, said, “We are excited to partner with MATH in establishing a transformative hub for AI and ML technologies. This collaboration embodies our shared vision of nurturing startups, fostering innovation, and creating a thriving ecosystem for technological advancement. Together, T-Hub and MATH will empower entrepreneurs to harness the power of AI and ML, driving meaningful change and propelling India onto the global stage of technological leadership.”

Rahul Paith, CEO of MATH, said, “The inauguration of MATH marks a significant milestone in our journey towards harnessing the potential of AI and ML to drive innovation and create impact. With state-of-the-art facilities and a comprehensive support ecosystem, MATH is poised to become the epicenter of AI and ML innovation in India. We are excited to collaborate with T-Hub and stakeholders across the ecosystem to accelerate the growth of AI-driven startups, empower researchers, and shape the future of technology in our nation.”

MATH unveils cutting-edge facilities including a mini data center with GPU capabilities, a world-class Learning Management System (LMS) tailored for AI education, and robust data infrastructure to support diverse AI applications. This launch signifies a pivotal moment for startups, researchers, and students as MATH introduces a diverse array of programs and initiatives to empower stakeholders across the AI and ML spectrum. From providing access to state-of-the-art compute infrastructure to offering AI skilling programs, data lakes, and virtual connectivity to global AI ecosystems, MATH positions itself as the ultimate destination for all things AI and ML.

MATH commits to providing comprehensive support to startups, ranging from infrastructure and workforce assistance to access to problem statements, data, and opportunities for patent conversion. Technological infrastructure and tools such as GPU clusters, data lakes, LMS platforms, and annotation tools are readily accessible, empowering stakeholders to drive AI and ML advancements with unparalleled support and resources.

09th Mar 2024: Indian Overseas Bank proudly marked International Women’s Day from 4th March to 08th March 2024, with a series of special events and initiatives aimed at recognizing and appreciating the women employees across the nation.

The festivities encompassed a range of activities, including various competitions that saw deserving winners receiving well-deserved prizes. Notably, the invaluable contributions of women providing housekeeping services within the bank premises were acknowledged and applauded.

To uplift the spirits of women employees, the bank organized guest lectures, offering insights and motivation. Additionally, campaigns were launched to facilitate increased loans to women borrowers, emphasizing programs like NRLM, SHG, and IOB Mahila Samriddhi. Special medical camps were set up exclusively for women staff members and customers, prioritizing their health and well-being.

Highlighting exemplary leadership, the bank felicitated the best-performing women Branch Heads, recognizing their outstanding contributions. Shri. Ajay Kumar Srivastava, the Managing Director & CEO, extended his heartfelt wishes to the entire women workforce on this significant occasion. Executive Directors Smt. S. Srimathy and Shri Joydeep Dutta Roy conveyed their greetings through special addresses, further emphasizing the importance of gender equality and empowerment within the organization.

Indian Overseas Bank reaffirms its commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering workplace, recognizing the indispensable role of women in its success.

Bengaluru, 9 March, 2024: As ICICI Bank enters its 70th year, the bank has come out with a video encapsulating its journey over the years in serving the nation.

The bank’s predecessor, the Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India (ICICI), was born on January 5, 1955 through a collaboration between the Reserve Bank of India and the World Bank, as part of the independent India’s endeavour to foster growth of indigenous industries.

Throughout the years, ICICI played a crucial role in bolstering India’s industrial sector by providing financial assistance to companies across industries, and helped setting up pioneering institutions which would eventually revolutionise various sectors of the economy. ICICI started a leading investment banking company in the early 90s. The institution also became the first Indian company and the inaugural non-Japan Asian bank or financial institution to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

In the early 2000s, ICICI diversified its offerings by venturing into life and general insurance sectors, becoming a comprehensive financial services provider.

Set up on January 5, 1994, ICICI Bank has always been at the forefront of technological innovation. In 2002, the merger of ICICI Limited and ICICI Bank made the institution a universal bank offering a wide spectrum of retail and corporate financial services.

In alignment with the government’s Digital India initiative, ICICI Bank’s flagship app, iMobile Pay, offers over 400 services, catering to customers of the bank and customers of other banks. The bank revolutionised business banking by introducing InstaBIZ, an innovative business banking mobile application for all businesses.

Beyond banking, ICICI Bank aims to create an enduring impact on society and the environment. Efforts of the bank’s philanthropic arm, ICICI Foundation for Inclusive Growth, in providing affordable and accessible healthcare, creating rural livelihoods, and supporting societal development have made a difference to millions of lives.

Kolkata, 9th March 2024: In a celebration of the burgeoning awareness surrounding plant-based foods and their pivotal role in sustainability, health and animal welfare, the Plant Based Foods Industry Association (PBFIA) proudly announces its 4th Mega Convention – The India Plant-Based Foods Show. This groundbreaking event was held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, on the 1st day of AAHAR, Thursday, March 7th, 2024. This convention is presented by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Development Authority (APEDA), ICAR- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Indian Chamber of Commerce, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and ProVeg International, and EY as the Knowledge Partner.

Sanjay Sethi, Executive Director of PBFIA, expressed, “Planting innovation in every bite, the plant-based food industry thrives on collaboration. From setbacks to a projected $5 billion market by 2032-33, we remain steadfast in delivering health and flavor”.

The India Plant-Based Foods Show, an integral part of the 38th AAHAR – International Food & Hospitality Fair 2024, is set to attract industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers for a day of immersive discussions and networking opportunities. The event will be graced by the Shri Arjun Munda, honourable Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Minister of Tribal Affairs, and Shri Kailash Choudhary, honourable Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare as its distinguished chief guests. Featuring over 40 brands globally and presentations from more than 45 distinguished speakers including Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General of ICAR and Secretary of DARE; Mr. Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Secretary of Ministry of Commerce and Industry; Mr. Minhaj Alam, Additional Secretary of Ministry of Food Processing Industries; Mr. Abhishek Dev, Chairman of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA); Mr. Samuel Praveen Kumar, Joint Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; Dr. Sudhanshu, Secretary of APEDA; Mr. Satyam Shivam Sundaram – Partner, Ernst and Young. The event promises to be a visionary platform for plant-based foods exhibitors from around the world. The event is supported by, THRYVE Plant-Based Venture, Plantaway Foods, Continental Greenbird, Patanjali Foods – Ruchi Soya, Pall Corporation, Nutricircle Limited, Veganta, DBS Bank, Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), Right to Protein, Hello Tempayy, Pall Corporation and ACME Group.

“Pall Corporation, with its comprehensive expertise in providing turnkey solutions encompassing MF/UF/NF and even chromo if required, empowers protein manufacturers to cultivate highly efficient, multi-functional proteins. In the ever-evolving landscape of plant-based foods, Pall stands as a stalwart ally, seamlessly bridging innovation and sustainability for the plant-based foods industry’s growth.”

The convention will kick off with an exhibition showcasing diverse plant-based foods by various companies and startups. Exhibitors will unveil their innovative products and connect with key industry players, including potential customers, investors, and partners. In partnership with EY, PBFIA will also launch its breakthrough report, ‘Food Tomorrow: Elevating India’s Role in the Plant-Based Revolution’ navigating the potential of plant-based nutrition within the Indian market, especially focusing on plant- protein clusters.

Supporting plant-based food alternatives, Satyam S. Sundaram, Partner, Strategy and Transactions at EY asserted, “In a world grappling with unprecedented challenges, from climate change to growing health concerns, the spotlight is increasingly shifting towards healthy and sustainable food systems. Plant-based foods have emerged as a beacon of hope, not only addressing these pressing issues but also unlocking a myriad of business opportunities.”

As the food industry shifts from animal-based to plant-based, driven by informed consumers’ concerns for health and the environment, a transformative era unfolds. The report aims to serve as a guiding light in navigating the complex terrain of the plant-based foods industry, mentioned Satyam Shivam Sundaram, Partner Strategy and Transaction, EY LLP. The event will further amplify its impact with a conference featuring keynote speakers and policymakers, providing insights into the latest trends, sustainability, innovations, and the future of the plant-based foods industry.

New Delhi, 09th March 2024 – Inknibs, a pioneering one-stop shop for books, toys, office supplies, and party supplies, in convenience shopping, has officially launched, redefining the way we fulfill our daily needs. With a promise to be your one-stop destination for books, stationary toys, office and party supplies, Inknibs offers a comprehensive range of products ranging from books to toys, stationery to party supplies, and everything in between. But what truly sets Inknibs apart is its commitment to delivering your purchases right to your doorstep within 60 minutes after placing the order.

In a world where life is busy, parents don’t have the time to buy things from shops or markets for their kids or students who are busy with their studies and classes, Inknibs emerges as the beacon of efficiency and convenience. Gone are the days of waiting impatiently for your orders to arrive through Inknibs, your desired items are in your hands via online medium.

“Our mission at Inknibs is simple yet ambitious: to make life easier for our customers by providing them with an unparalleled shopping experience,” says Divyanshu Solanki, Founder, and CEO at Inknibs, is the visionary behind this innovative venture. He added, “We understand the value of time and the importance of convenience, which is why we’ve crafted Inknibs to cater to the diverse needs of our customers, all while ensuring swift and seamless delivery.”

But what truly sets Inknibs apart is its asset-light quick commerce model, adeptly serving B2B2C sectors. Leveraging an aggregator model that automates processes, Inknibs merges manufacturers and retailers to optimize efficiency and profitability. In the B2B realm, Inknibs earns commissions on sales, while in the B2C space, it collects an 18-20% commission on items sold by retailers. Additionally, Inknibs specializes in last-minute customer needs, offering hyper-local delivery within a 5km radius of one of its stores.

With modern technology and an efficient logistics network, Inknibs guarantees that your orders will be delivered to your doorstep within 60 minutes around a 5km radius. No more anxiously waiting days, Inknibs ensures that you get what you need when you need it, without any hassle or delay.

In addition to its unrivaled speed, Inknibs prides itself on its allegiance to customer satisfaction. With a user-friendly app and seamless browsing experience, shopping on Inknibs is a breeze. Plus, with secure payment options and a dedicated customer support team ready to assist you every step of the way, Inknibs ensures that your shopping experience is not only fast but also stress-free.

“We believe that shopping should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore,” adds Divyanshu Solanki, Founder, and CEO at Inknibs, “That’s why we’ve made it our mission to provide our customers with a platform that not only meets their needs but also exceeds their expectations. With Inknibs, convenience is just a click away.”

As the world continues to evolve and technology advances at a rapid pace, Inknibs stands at the forefront of innovation, leading the way in the realm of convenience shopping in the educational sector, extra co extracurricular activities. With its unmatched selection of products, 60 delivery services, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, Inknibs is poised to revolutionize the way we shop for books, toys, stationery, office essentials, and party supplies.

Mumbai, 09th March, 2023: RPG Foundation (RPGF) has initiated a marine conservation initiative under Project nature:re. At nature:re, we take small steps to rebalance our planet to reconnect us to nature. Under nature:re ocean, we aim to enhance marine biodiversity and support the livelihood of coastal communities.

Rolling into action, we are installing 210 artificial reefs in the ocean near Worli, Mumbai on 7th March 2024 between 8am to 10am.

Reefs provide a win-win solution that serves the environment by creating carbon sinks and by increasing biomass, they provide more fishing opportunities to coastal communities.

An artificial reef is a concrete structure made from cement and steel. When immersed, they initiate the formation of bacterial biofilm, which covers the surface of the artificial reef modules. Over time, they will be covered by micro and macro algae. They also become a sanctuary for small and large-sized native fish species. This transformation is visible between 3-6 months.

Over the years, fisher folks in the city have been experiencing a drop in their incomes due to the declining fish population caused due to pollution from sewage and plastic waste being dumped into the oceans. Artificial reefs remove pollutants from water, providing a natural filtration process for the water. As the reefs mature, they transform into carbon sinks as they increase the sea surface area (about 50-60 sqft per module), which results in more productivity and biodiversity. This ability to capture carbon from the air would be a potentialsolution for the deteriorating air quality of the city.

RPG Foundation has commissioned Kuddle Life Foundation, a marine conservation NGO, for scientific assessments and timely evaluation. We plan to extend its success to other areas in Mumbai and beyond.

Such projects reflect RPG Foundation’s commitment to addressing environmental and social issues responsibly. As we launch this initiative, we renew our dedication to creating a better future for marine life and coastal communities.

How have artificial reefs helped globally?

Across the globe, there are efforts taken to build climate-resilient artificial reefs that are like underwater homes for marine life. Countries like Indonesia, Australia, the US, Japan, India and Venezuela, to name a few, are spearheading successful reef projects to combat climate change. They help bring back marine animals to areas where their habitats have been damaged. These reefs also protect coastlines from big waves and storms, preventing erosion. People love visiting these reefs for activities like snorkeling and diving, which brings in tourists and helps local economies.

Mumbai/New Delhi, 9 March 2024: To leverage the opportunities from the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) and the increasing demand from the Indian middle class for premium agrifood products, Australian premium food & beverage companies will showcase the best of Australian premium agrifood products at Aahar 2024 to connect with the Indian businesses and consumers.

The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) in partnership with the state governments of New South Wales and Victoria is bringing together 20+ Australian brands to showcase their products at the Australian Pavilion located at Hall No.1, Stand No.1G-02A in Aahar 2024.

The Australian pavilion at Aahar 2024 will showcase products across different categories ranging from sheep meat, seafood and aquaculture, horticulture, grains and pulses and premium health food products.

Australia’s reputation for clean, green and safe produce makes Australia a compelling destination to develop, commercialise, scale and source the next generation of agriculture and food technologies.

Taste the Wonders of Australia Coinciding with Aahar 2024, the Australian High Commissioner to India, HE Philip Green OAM is hosting the inaugural ‘Taste the Wonders of Australia’ event on 7 March 2024 at the Australian High Commission, New Delhi.

The event will provide an opportunity Indian and Australian businesses to come together to network, enjoy Australian food and beverage and celebrate the depth of our bilateral relationship. The event menu will be curated by Indian celebrity Chef Saby using the Australian ingredients and produce.

The event is being delivered in partnership with ANZ Bank, HCL Technologies, Linfox, HSBC Bank and Qantas Airways. Products featured have been generously provided by Avocados Australia, Meat and Livestock Australia, Tassal, Western Australian Government, Treasury Wine Estates and Saint Andrews Beach Brewery.

Speaking about the Australian participation at Aahar 2024, Mr John Southwell, Trade and Investment Commissioner – South Asia, Australian Trade and Investment Commission said, “India and Australia’s bilateral ties have seen remarkably strengthened over the years, and our produces in various sectors have grown exponentially. It is this partnership and shared prosperity that has motivated us to bring our products to India and collaborate with local importers to enhance trade relations and further strengthen the bond between our two nations. We can see Australian products featuring more and more in Indian cuisine, from dals to lamb biryani paired with premium Australian wine. If you are after fine high-quality, great tasting products – come and visit us at Aahar.”

Bengaluru, March 09, 2024: TVS Supply Chain Solutions Limited (NSE: TVSSCS, BOM: 543965), a global supply chain solutions provider and one of the largest and fastest-growing integrated supply chain solutions providers in India, has announced the expansion of its warehousing capacity in India by adding 6,50,000 sq. ft. of ultra-modern multi-client warehouse space in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. The facility was inaugurated by Mr. K N Radhakrishnan, Director and CEO, TVS Motor Company and Mr. Ravi Viswanathan, Managing Director, TVS Supply Chain Solutions, today. With this addition, the organisation’s total warehouse capacity has increased from 21.2 to 21.85 million sq. ft. This expansion has created 1200 new jobs and is in line with its customers’ growth requirements.

Says, Mr. Ravi Viswanathan, Managing Director, TVS Supply Chain Solutions Ltd., “We are thrilled to unveil our new warehouse equipped with cutting-edge automation and IT systems. This marks a pivotal step in our commitment to efficiency, innovation and delivering unparalleled service to our customers.”

Inaugurating the new facility, Mr. K N Radhakrishnan, Director and CEO, TVS Motor Company said, “This new facility by TVS SCS demonstrates their ongoing efforts to enhance service capabilities and meet customers’ evolving needs. We have strategically positioned our Global Parts Distribution Centre in this new facility, which will serve as a hub for our global market. I am confident that TVS SCS through their process excellence, business know-how and technical expertise will provide services par excellence.”

TVS SCS’ warehousing solutions are backed by industry-leading technology systems and material handling equipment. The offering includes a wide range of warehouse storage options such as contract warehousing, cross-docking, open yard management, rework & refurbish management, multi-user facilities, palletised & racked and temperature controlled.

TVS SCS firmly believes in three key aspects; customer centricity, process excellence & standardisation and work culture & diversity in its operations, and these are well represented in the new warehouse facility. The new warehouse facility will have around 300 women employees in various roles like kitting, binning, etc.

Globally, TVS Supply Chain Solutions operates around 300 strategically located warehouses across five continents, covering over 27 million square feet of warehousing space.

March 9th, 2024: BSH Home Appliances Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of BSH Hausgeräte GmbH, a global leader in the home appliance industry, announces the launch of a range of Bosch single-door refrigerators designed to cater to the varied storage needs of Indian households. Designed to revolutionize the Indian cooling segment, the new refrigerators are the result of extensive research into evolving consumer needs and preferences. With this launch, BSH Home Appliances further reinforces its commitment to ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make For India’ by delivering innovative solutions that enhance user experiences.

Based on a deep understanding of consumer pain points, the range has been meticulously crafted with ergonomic and aesthetic features. It is available in capacities ranging from 187L to 226L, the refrigerators offering generous storage space to accommodate the needs of families of all sizes. With an array of colors and patterns, refrigerators complement modern kitchen aesthetics. The refrigerators are available across high energy-efficient classes that not only ensures optimal cooling, it also enables consumers to reduce energy consumption and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

The refrigerators boast a host of unique consumer-centric features, such as a delicate crisper box for soft & leafy vegetables (fragile items), an easy-access zone for daily essentials, unique pedestal box with adjustable bin for better segregation of dry items, Cool Bottle Zone with smart shield technology for faster cooling that can accommodates upto four 1 litre water bottles without compromising door space, catering to the hydration needs of modern households. Across all capacities, the refrigerators offer 18-hour cooling retention, ensuring food remains fresh even during extended power cuts. The Bosch single-door refrigerator promises best-in-class cooling performance with fast ice-making and 2.5x faster bottle cooling. The refrigerators also come with the largest vegetable storage with a capacity of 21 liters ensuring ample storage for fruits and veggies for larger families. Engineered with German quality standards, the refrigerators are built to last, backed by a 10-year compressor warranty.

Commenting on the launch, Saif Khan, MD & CEO, BSH Home Appliances, said “After thoroughly researching and understanding the real pain points for consumers, we are thrilled to introduce our new range of Bosch Single Door Refrigerators. From tackling space constraints for delicate items to offering ample room for dry goods and extra water bottles in summer, they also keep leafy veggies fresher, curbing food waste. Rooted in ‘Make in India,’ these refrigerators promise expanded storage, greater flexibility, and unmatched durability, making it a perfect fit for your diverse needs”.

Noida, March 9, 2024: The grand opening of Climb City, India’s largest indoor climbing destination, marked a triumphant celebration on March 6 th . Nestled in the heart of Noida at Sector 132, this expansive 17,000-square-foot indoor adventure sports haven beckons
adventure enthusiasts for an unparalleled one-day escapade.

 Breaking new ground in experiential entertainment, Climb City proudly showcases 3,000 square feet of climbing space with 3 monumental walls—a first of its kind in India standing tall at heights of 12 meters for top rope climbing and 6 meters bouldering, featuring 550+ holds.

 Climb City is more than just a climbing gym; it’s a secure and air-conditioned haven designed to captivate climbers of all skill levels. Offering top-rope, autobelay, and bouldering experiences, it ensures a diverse and thrilling adventure.

 The 12 lanes of top rope, secured with a harness, is manned by a professional belayer, while autobelay relies on an automatic device for a controlled descent. The 150 bouldering problems are done sans harness and provides a dynamic challenge with thick crash pads ensuring safety. New climbers were given a brief orientation, covering risks, belay, etiquettes, lead climbing, falling and safety.

 The brainchild of a dynamic quartet, Climb City showcases the visionary collaboration of Pranav Jain, Prateek Jain, Riddhika Jain and Rishab Gupta. Pranav Jain is an avid climbing enthusiast and the force behind the project. Inspired by his exploits in the outdoors and navigating the world of climbing, Pranav recognised the untapped potential of wall climbing in air-conditioned comfort in the region and sowed the seed for Climb City. Pranav is IRATA Level 1 certified, a course in safe practices and measures for working at heights.

“Climb City is the realisation of a dream born from years of exploration and research, aiming to provide a heart-pounding yet safe rock-climbing experience. I wanted to create a space where people could escape the ordinary, embrace the extraordinary and experience climbing in a way that can open new perspectives,” explains Pranav Jain, founder and climbing expert. “Climb City is not just about climbing walls; it’s about pushing limits, discovering the thrill of adventure, and having a memorable experience.”

 Riddhika Jain is the meticulous creator of the dedicated soft play zone for children – Hoppers.Rishab Gupta is the culinary virtuoso and visionary behind the celebrated Mediterranean restaurant Burash, located on the same premises as Climb City. Prateek, a seasoned finance specialist, oversees the business operations.

 Beyond the climbing excitement, Climb City offers an extensive space for families to explore, ensuring a delightful day out for both kids and adults. The soft play zone with over 40 activities such as slides, trampoline, obstacle course and foam pit crafted for children, ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. While children can enjoy the zone and young adults can test their mettle in rock climbing within secure surroundings, Burash gives parents and older adults a place to rest their tired souls and relish delectable cuisine.

 “With Climb City, we aim to blend the thrill of ascent with the exquisite flavours of Burash. It’s not just a place to experience adventure or have a fantastic meal. It is conceived as the ultimate one-day retreat—a serene oasis where families and friends can come together to forge core memories,” expresses Rishab Gupta.

 The newest addition to Noida’s leisure landscape, Climb City caters to all age groups, offering a unique blend of culinary excellence and adventurous pursuits. It intends to take you to a journey of discovery, excitement, and unparalleled fun. Reasonably priced at INR 800 for 3 hours, the adrenaline-pumping climbs promise an unforgettable adventure for seasoned climbers and first-time adventurers alike.