Archives May 2024

Hyderabad, 2nd May 2024 SVKM’s NMIMS Hyderabad School of Business Management (SBM) held its 13th Convocation Ceremony for the Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) 2022-2024 batch. The monumental occasion saw a total of 266 being conferred their MBA degrees.

Mr. Sairam Prasad, CEO, Suzlon Global Services Limited., graced the event as the Chief Guest. Dr Sharad Mhaiskar, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Mr. Pravin H Doshi, Member Managing & Executive Committee, and Nominee of the Hon’ble Chancellor; Mr. Ashish Apte, Controller of Examinations, Dr N Mahesh Kumar, Deputy Registrar, Dr Suneetha Sistla, Programme Chairperson; Dr Y L N Kumar, Associate Professor, SBM were present in the ceremony as part of the NMIMS leadership.

The grand event began with an academic procession and the lighting of the lamp. Mr. Pravin H Doshi presided over the prestigious ceremony and conferred the degrees to the new graduates. Pro VC Dr Sharad Mhaiskar administered the oath to the students followed by the sustainability oath by Dr Suneetha Sistla. Commemorating the memorable occasion, Dr. Sharad Mhaiskar and Mr. Sairam Prasad delivered inspiring addresses to a hall full of dignitaries, faculty, and enthusiastic students.

Meanwhile, Dr Y L N Kumar presented the SBM School Report. In the preceding academic calendar, NMIMS Hyderabad SBM achieved several milestones. In the academic year 2023-2024, the distinguished faculties of SBM published 32 distinct research papers in National and International journals. Of these, two papers were published in the ‘A’ category of ABDC-listed journals.

Furthermore, NMIMS Hyderabad SBM had a highly successful placement season, with 85 companies hiring top talent and the highest offer being INR 11 Lakh per annum. Among the top employers were PwC, Bank of America and Nestle. Moreover, the WeCare Winter Internship Programme saw students being placed in corporations such as TATA Steel, TATA Power, and Microsoft, among others to assist them in their social initiatives.

Moreover, meritorious students were presented with awards with Dean awards & Gold medals for their academic achievements. Faculty members were also awarded on their areas of excellence in Academics, Research, and Multi-campus program coordination. Best Faculty was awarded to Dr. YLN Kumar, Best Researcher award to Dr ShowkatBusru and Best Faculty – Multi-Campus Program Coordination to Dr Abhilash Ponnam.

Addressing the graduating students, Mr. Sairam Prasad said, “As fresh graduates, when you step into the professional world, you must remember three important things. Firstly, you must have a global perspective, secondly, you must be patient and thirdly you must work towards building your unique value.”

Dr Sharad Mhaiskar congratulated the graduating students and said, “NMIMS has a strong legacy of providing quality education to aspiring students from different sections of society. The NMIMS legacy is built on five important pillars – Excellence, Employability, Innovation, Responsibility and Collegiality. The School of Business Management has been a bearer of this legacy. As you graduate, you will be inheriting a proud and privileged NMIMS legacy of beliefs and sustained values to translate vision into action.”

The solemn ceremony ended with a Vote of Thanks by Dr N Mahesh Kumar, Deputy Registrar, NMIMS Hyderabad.

Gen Z, a generation known for its adaptability and influence, faces a unique financial dilemma. A Deloitte survey reveals a concerning trend: 51% of Gen Z individuals worry about living paycheck to paycheck, highlighting a potential lack of financial stability. Intuit’s Prosperity Index Study further emphasizes that 3 out of 4 Gen Zers prioritize quality of life experiences over saving for the future. While Gen Z’s desire to embrace a fulfilling, self-driven lifestyle is admirable, navigating the balance between immediate enjoyment and long-term financial security is crucial. Could online investment platforms offer a solution that allows this generation to thrive today while building a solid foundation for tomorrow? Let’s explore five popular investment platforms in India, each with its own strengths and ideal user profiles:

1. Per Annum
Per Annum is tailored for investors seeking both security and diversity. Their focus on institutional-grade investment products with low entry barriers opens up a range of opportunities previously reserved for high-net-worth individuals. Their portfolio includes P2P debt investments, revenue-based financing, bonds, and SIPs – delivering the potential for consistent returns and the flexibility to tailor investments to your risk tolerance. Per Annum’s impressive track record, with over 500,000 investors and an AUM of over Rs 2000 crores, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a well-established platform.

2. Angel One
Angel One is a top choice for investors seeking a comprehensive trading and investment platform. With its low-cost brokerage structure, including zero brokerage for the first 30 days and no account maintenance fees in the first year, it’s a cost-effective option. Angel One offers a wide range of investment options, including stocks, IPOs, F&O, commodities, mutual funds, and even US stocks. Traders and investors benefit from robust research tools, advisory services, and a user-friendly mobile app. Additionally, Angel One provides offline support through its network of branches and offers access to various trading segments, including commodities and forex.

3. Groww
Groww attracts investors with a global mindset. The platform’s zero brokerage fees and free account opening for US stock market investments are major draws, allowing young investors to dip their toes into international markets. Their fixed fee-per-order model can be advantageous for certain trading styles, especially those who may not engage in frequent, high-volume trades. Groww is ideal for beginners and those seeking international diversification to expand their portfolios beyond Indian markets.

4. 5paisa
5paisa appeals to cost-conscious traders with its flat fee of Rs. 20 per order across various segments. Investors seeking control and personalization will appreciate features like add-on packs and APIs that enable a customized trading experience. 5paisa empowers active traders with its focus on value, comprehensive market resources, and the ability to build their trading terminal.

5. LenDenClub
LenDenClub delivers a streamlined investment experience designed for ease and risk mitigation. Its completely digital process, zero opening fees, and emphasis on fund diversification make it an attractive option for those new to investing. The platform leverages data analysis to help investors make informed lending decisions, minimizing guesswork. LenDenClub is ideal for those seeking ease of use, minimal barriers to entry, and a commitment to risk mitigation through diversified lending.

New Delhi- 2nd May 2024: Sommet Education, a leading worldwide player in hospitality education boasting a community of 10,000 students and 60,000 influential alumni worldwide, is proud to announce the launch of its Foundation, a significant milestone aimed at supporting employment challenges within the hospitality sector.

The Foundation will concentrate on tackling the sector’s employment challenges by focusing on two levers of action: offering scholarships for hospitality education to talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds and advocating for careers and professions in hospitality.

Empowering individuals from underserved communities to pursue rewarding careers in hospitality.

The launch of the Foundation comes at a pivotal moment for the industry, with the travel and tourism sector projected to employ 449 million people worldwide by 2034 (source: World Travel and Tourism Council). By then, 12.2% of the global workforce will be powering this vibrant sector. Despite these promising figures, many destinations and hospitality employers continue to face recruitment challenges.

Drawing on Sommet Education’s long-standing commitment to developing hospitality talent, the Sommet Education Foundation will leverage its global network of hospitality schools to train and open doors to careers in this promising industry for individuals from diverse and socially disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Sommet Education Foundation will identify talents supported by a network of social partners, including UN agencies, governmental entities, and NGOs. These talents will be selected in alignment with the framework of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal number 4, focusing on inclusive education. Funding and support will be provided to educate and empower, particularly youth from impoverished backgrounds and women, while also creating lifelong learning opportunities and ensuring that talents are gainfully employed within the sector.

”Joining the Hospitality Industry is more than a job guarantee; it is a promise of a rewarding and fulfilling career nurtured by human encounters, passion, cultural exchanges, and experiences. By offering scholarships leading to employment opportunities, we aim at offering life-changing opportunities to a new generation of talents and empowering them with the necessary skills to join the thriving hospitality industry,” said Mrs. Anouck Weiss, Executive Vice-President at Sommet Education Foundation.

Sommet Education Foundation Patronage

The Foundation can already count on Accor as a Founding Patron. The hospitality group has already committed to promoting talent development, fostering social equality, and bolstering economic growth through a first dedicated initiative in India. Steven Daines, Chief Talent and Culture Officer, said on the occasion: “As a leading hospitality group, investing in people’s talent is a key priority. Hospitality is a sector that transcends territories and borders. This implies open-mindedness and connection to others. I am proud to be in a sector that promotes cross-border work experiences and multicultural environments”.

Echoing his views, Mrs Anne-Sophie BERAUD, SVP Diversity & Inclusion & Social Care Accor, said, “The success of our employees must not be determined by diplomas, origins or nationalities. We want to guarantee each of our talents the opportunity to reach their full potential by preventing inequalities and discrimination.”

Promoting hospitality professions

To inform the Foundation’s roadmap and strategic direction, Sommet Education Foundation engaged OpinionWay, a pioneering market research institute, to conduct a comprehensive European survey, with the primary objective of identifying the key factors that attract and retain talents in the hospitality industry. 1,300 young professionals and hospitality human resources managers across Europe were interviewed, along with 20 key industry leaders* (see list below) encompassing the broader spectrum of the sector, including hotels, restaurants, travel, tourism, independent, medium-sized, and large hotel groups, and high-end retail.

Survey shows strong sector attractiveness and employer voluntarism to seduce and retain new talents

The service sector holds considerable appeal for 85% of young professionals across Europe. Three-quarters of young European professionals would be ready to join high-end hotels, restaurants, and retail shops, praising the career opportunities, especially internationally, and the people-to-people connections. The survey confirms the overall challenge of the sector throughout Europe, with 59% of HR managers facing employment challenges. 78% state that Generation Z (18 to 28 years old) brings specific challenges from identification, recruitment, and loyalty.

Hospitality’s Unique promise fuels optimism in the sector

Professionals within the sector are resolutely convinced of the depth and appeal of their respective fields, with an overwhelming 86% expressing confidence in the sector’s allure. Moreover, they exhibit unwavering faith in their ability to sustain employee commitment, rating it at an impressive 7.5 out of 10.

This sector uniquely offers pathways for individuals to advance socially and professionally, regardless of their educational background. It stands out as one of the few industries where individuals can achieve rapid success and take on greater responsibilities over time, effectively climbing the social ladder. This unique promise of upward mobility makes it particularly appealing to many. Furthermore, employers place a premium on motivation, soft skills, and service-oriented personalities, prioritizing these qualities over formal diplomas and being ready to invest in their talents. The overwhelming majority—93% of HR managers—emphasize the centrality of training in fostering talent excellence, development, and long-term loyalty.

Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive at Mandarin Oriental shared on the subject: “Architects design the buildings of tomorrow. I would like people coming out of hospitality schools to be able to design the experience of tomorrow».

[Rotterdam, Netherlands, 2nd May 2024 ] Huawei is presenting its innovative Intelligent Distribution Solution (IDS) at the 26th World Energy Congress in Rotterdam. Developed in collaboration with ecosystem partners, the IDS aims to tackle the electric power industry’s most pressing challenges, including high line loss, unreliable service, and the burden of managing new energy loads.

To address these challenges, power companies are turning to digital solutions that harness the power of data, connectivity, and automation. The digitization of the power distribution network—often referred to as the ‘last mile’—is a critical element in the modernization of the conventional power grid system. This ‘last mile’ ensures the delivery of electric power directly to consumers’ homes, businesses, and industries. Huawei’s IDS leverages cutting-edge technologies to optimize power distribution, enhance grid reliability, and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources.

“Huawei’s Intelligent Distribution Solution enables power enterprises to shift from single-point digitalization of power distribution rooms to architecture-supported, evolvable, open, and systematic intelligence. With an open digital ecosystem, we can stimulate grassroots creativity internally and make industry and cross-industry capabilities available to customers externally,” said David Sun, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of Huawei’s Electric Power Digitalization BU.

The IDS architecture is built on a unique “cloud-pipe-edge-pipe-device” framework, which includes an on-premise private cloud as the digital foundation, both wired and wireless solutions for the backhaul network, an all-in-one edge computing unit (ECU) for lean management, and next-generation high-speed power line carrier communication (HPLC) on the low-voltage side. This comprehensive approach enables real-time measurable observations that empower utility providers to optimize their operations, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction by identifying and repairing faults before power outages occur.

The solution has already proven its effectiveness in real-world applications, with successful implementations across several provinces in China, including in the Shaanxi province in collaboration with the State Grid Shaanxi Electric Power Co., Ltd and partners. The solution has revolutionized the management of over 100,000 distribution transformer districts, reducing outage durations and achieving an impressive power supply reliability rate. Moreover, it has enabled the seamless integration of over 50,000 residential photovoltaic sites and more than 1,000 large-scale 10kV photovoltaic sites have achieved 100% access and consumption.

“The solution delivers comprehensive and accurate power distribution network sensing, lean and refined management, timely and proactive customer service, as well as simpler and more efficient work for our employees,” said Zhang Genzhou, CIO of State Grid Shaanxi. (See video: “Successful Practice of Intelligent Distribution Solution in State Grid Shaanxi.”)

The solution has also delivered promising initial test results in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, demonstrating its potential to revolutionize power distribution on a global scale.

Attendees of the World Energy Congress are invited to visit the Huawei booth (Stand 5.635, Rotterdam Ahoy) to learn more about the Intelligent Distribution Solution and see how Huawei’s experience assisting power companies transform their operations can help drive further success for global customers.

Hyderabad,2nd May 2024: Virinchi Hospitals, a pioneer in healthcare services in Hyderabad, hosted a specialized workshop on Neonatal Resuscitation for the nursing staff, today at Virinchi Hospital, Banjara Hills. This vital program was organized by senior consultant Pediatrician Dr. Vannala Raju, with esteemed faculty members including Dr. Purna Guggilum, KIMS Cuddles; Dr. Vaddi Vamsi Krishna, Rainbow Children’s Hospital; and Dr. Raju himself.

The workshop focused on critical resuscitation techniques necessary for caring for newborns immediately after birth. More than 50 nursing professionals from various hospitals in & around the city participated in this engaging and informative session, acquiring skills that are crucial in reducing brain damage due to lack of oxygen immediately after birth (hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy – HIE) —a common yet preventable threat to newborns.

India’s current neonatal mortality rate stands at approximately 20 deaths per 1,000 live births and conditions such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) because of poor cry/inability of the baby to breathe immediately after birth contribute significantly to neonatal deaths. It is estimated that 1.5 babies per 1,000 live births in India are affected by HIE, making it a crucial area for intervention.

Dr. Vannala Raju, who spearheaded the workshop, emphasized the importance of equipping nursing staff with the knowledge and techniques to administer immediate care. “Through this workshop, we aim to disseminate knowledge and skills to reduce neonatal mortality and enhance the quality of care provided right at the moment of birth,” said Dr. Raju.

The training covered a range of topics crucial to newborn care, including the effective management of breathing and cardiovascular stabilization. The workshop’s hands-on approach ensured that the nursing staff could practice and master these lifesaving techniques in a controlled, supportive environment.

The success of this program highlights Virinchi Hospitals’ commitment to advancing neonatal care and improving health outcomes for the youngest patients. The knowledge disseminated here is expected to significantly decrease the incidence of hypoxic damage and, by extension, neonatal mortality rates. Virinchi Hospitals continues to stand at the forefront of medical excellence and educational empowerment, aiming to set new standards in healthcare provision and staff training.

New Delhi, 2nd May 2024 – SwopStore, a leading Customer Acquisition platform for online businesses, is on track to achieve a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of 400 Cr. by the fiscal year 2024-2025. Building on its recent milestone of surpassing 5 Cr. GMV for March 2024, the company is poised for exponential growth in the coming years.

Throughout FY 2023-2024, SwopStore has demonstrated robust performance, with consistent Month–on–month growth of 40% in GMV and revenue. This impressive trajectory underscores SwopStore’s strategic initiatives, including targeted acquisitions, collaborations, and a steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction.

By prioritizing market expansion and enhancing offerings through acquisitions and collaborations, SwopStore has solidified its position as a key player in the industry. Notable acquisitions include The Man Company, Bombay Shaving, Perform, Snitch, Plix Life, Enamor, Hindustan Liver, Earth Rhythm, Godrej, Lenskart, and John Jacob.

Ayush Gupta, CEO of SwopStore, is passionate about propelling the company forward by achieving milestones, fostering meaningful relationships, and delivering value to stakeholders. He recently shared his excitement about SwopStore’s ambitious goal of reaching a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of 400 Cr, a testament to the company’s dedication to growth and conscious consumerism.

With a proven track record of scaling up sales for over 100 online businesses by up to 20% in the past year and facilitating 1 million transactions, SwopStore has solidified its position as a leader in driving sales and nurturing customer relationships in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape. The platform’s user-friendly interface and data-driven strategies have consistently set it apart, enabling brands to expand their customer base and enhance sales figures effectively.

In addition to its remarkable achievements, SwopStore aims to target key sectors such as fintech, quick-commerce services, multinational restaurant aggregators, airlines, banking loyalty programs, and hotel chain loyalty programs. By strategically focusing on these sectors, SwopStore intends to further broaden its impact and establish itself as a versatile solution provider in the global marketplace, he added”.

2nd May 2024: mPokket, one of India’s leading digital lending platforms, today announced the appointment of Todd Ruppert to its Advisory Board. Todd brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served as a venture partner at Greenspring Associates and Founder of Ruppert International, a firm with diversified global interests in startup companies.

Todd, the ex-CEO of T. Rowe Price Global Investment Services and co-president of T. Rowe Price International, holds senior advisory and board positions with multiple PE/VC firms, including Antler, the largest early-stage company builder worldwide. During his tenure at T. Rowe Price, Todd spearheaded the firm’s investment in UTI, one of India’s leading asset managers.

“Todd’s wealth of experience and deep understanding of the financial landscape will be invaluable as we strive to propel towards our aim of empowering the underserved youth of India. With his expertise, we are not only focused on meeting the credit needs of the youth but also on providing them with new earning avenues and career growth opportunities.” Mr. Gaurav Jalan, mPokket’s Founder and CEO, said in a statement.

Beyond finance, Todd is deeply also passionate about education and youth development and protection. He has served as a board member of INSEAD Business School from 2012-to 2021 and is currently a member of its Advisory Council. He also serves as a board member of the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, as well as a global ambassador for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

“I am honored to join mPokket as an advisor and contribute to their journey towards becoming a leading force in India’s youth growth story over the next decade. With a commitment to education, youth development, and financial inclusion, mPokket is poised to make a significant impact, and I’m excited to be a part of this journey.” Todd Ruppert, said in a statement.

mPokket has disbursed ~US$2 billion in loans till date with minimal default rates powered by its proprietary AI-based underwriting algorithm. The company recently announced a $61 million debt raise from BPEA credit.

Hyderabad, 2nd May 2024: KLH Bachupally campus of KL Deemed to be University organized its inaugural VIWENTIAA 2024, the annual techno-cultural extravaganza, with resounding success, showcasing the vibrant culture of innovation and creativity among students, recently. Over two electrifying days, the event brought together over 400 students from different colleges, who immersed themselves in a whirlwind of activities, ranging from technical workshops and expos to hackathons and coding battles.

KLH Bachupally Fest went beyond technology, offering a refreshing blend of non-technical events that captivated attendees with entertainment and excitement. The festival featured TechCorner Events such as GLaM Code Couture, Bots Battle, Hack-A-Thon, Ideas Spark, PCB Design Workshop, and more. Additionally, Non-Technohub events like E-gaming, GAMEconQUEST Smash Karts, GAMEconQUEST Tambola, etc., ensured there was something for everyone amidst the festivities.

The event’s success was further elevated by the presence of chief guests Amarnath Kothamasu, Director of Financial Services (Insurance), and Advitheeya Entertainers. The cast of the film “Ishitha” also graced the occasion, adding to the glamour and excitement of VIWENTIAA 2024. They delighted the audience with a sneak peek of the trailer. Meanwhile, actor Arjun Ambati, exuding charm and charisma, captivated the attendees with his magnetic presence.

Dr. G. Pardha Saradhi Varma, Vice-Chancellor of KL Deemed to be University, expressed his delight at the festival’s outcome, stating, “Such fests showcase not just technological capability but also promotes a sense of community and camaraderie. We at the University believe in practical learning and innovation, nurturing the next generation of leaders. Across our campuses, we continue to embrace curiosity and collaboration as we pave the way for a brighter future.”

Under the leadership of Dr. L Koteswara Rao, Principal, KLH Bachupally, the dedication and hard work of students, faculty, and staff, the success of VIWENTIAA stands as a testament to the vibrant culture of innovation and creativity that defines this institution.

Mumbai, 2nd May 2024: Amazon miniTV, Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently released its riveting coming-of-age teenage drama, Amber Girls School. The series follows Ojaswini as she moves from being a teenager to becoming an adult, delving into the difficulties of adolescence set against the backdrop of 2008. Produced by Reliance Entertainment Studios and directed by Rajlaxmi Ratan Seth, the series captures the clash between traditional values and the modern aspirations of young women. Along with bringing a compelling narrative of rebellion, self-discovery, and the pursuit of individuality, here are the top 5 reasons why Amber Girls School must be on your binge-watch list.

● An intriguing narrative that questions the changing dynamics of growing up : Set in the premise of an all-girls school, the series Amber Girls School offers a unique cultural setting that intensifies the narrative, with a blend of teenage struggles, high emotions, and a compelling storyline. With a conflict between the desire to venture into impermissible adventures or march towards a well-planned goal, the narrative deftly unfolds the drama and development of each character.

● Exploration of teenage life and challenges: The series delves into the heart of adolescence, exploring a variety of struggles faced by them in a conservative society. Taking the viewers through the journey of Ojaswini and her friends, the series showcases the struggles, curiosity and excitement of transitioning into adulthood while one goes through rapid changes. It also offers a raw and unfiltered look at the lives of teen girls who are not afraid to push boundaries and break free from societal expectations.

● Emotional depth and relatable storyline: The series touches on various relatable themes that resonate with the audience. From the daily conflicts in family and its complex dynamics to school life and financial highs and lows, the storyline explores the world of sisterhood, aspirations and self discovery. The emotional aspect of the series will take the viewers through each character’s journey, resounding with their joys, struggles, and triumphs while navigating through different challenges.

● Talented cast ensemble with character development: Led by the talented Celesti Bairagey as Ojaswini, the cast of Amber Girls School also features Kajol Chugh, Adrija Sinha, Ishika Gagneja, Harsh Khurana, and Shruti Panwar in pivotal roles. Through their powerful performances, they bring depth and authenticity to their roles. The series showcases the unique challenges encountered by each girl.

● Watch for free: Immerse in the journey of self-discovery and defiance against traditional constraints with Amber Girls School for free on Amazon miniTV. There is no need to pay anything to tune in to this engrossing coming-of-age teenage drama on a subscription basis. It is now available to stream on Amazon miniTV and Fire TV within the Amazon Shopping App and on Play Store.

Dive into the captivating world of Amber Girls School exclusively on Amazon miniTV, available on Amazon’s shopping app, Prime Video, Fire TV, Smart TVs, and Play Store!