Archives July 2024

Bangalore, Karnataka, India  Living in a digital age can be interesting due to evolving experiences that have the power to transform reality through technology. In doing so, data centers have become the backbone of countless industries, powering everything from financial transactions to entertainment streaming. While living in the ecosystem of making life easy and seamless, we often forget to pay attention to the critical aspects of technology that make operations seamless. One commonly overlooked critical factor is the quality of Power Distribution Units (PDUs). Netrack recognizes the importance of reliable PDUs and emphasizes their role in maintaining uninterrupted operations within data centers.

The cost of a power outage in a data center due to non-compliant PDUs can be devastating. Non-compliant PDUs increase the risk of electrical failures, leading to unplanned downtime and costly disruptions to business operations. Beyond the immediate financial losses incurred from downtime, there are long-term consequences such as equipment failure, reputational damage, loss of customer trust, and potential legal issues related to failure of timely delivery.

Netrack also highlights the fact that poor-quality PDUs pose a threat to smooth data center operations by increasing the risk of electrical faults, overheating, and even fire hazards. Again, such PDUs will also lack essential features such as overload protection and remote monitoring capabilities, further adding to the downtime and compromise of data center security. Hence, Netrack always suggests opting for certified PDUs since they are reliable and efficient. They undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with industry standards. Certified PDUs also feature advanced functionalities such as power metering, environmental monitoring, and remote management, empowering data center operators with real-time insights and control over power distribution.

Netrack recognizes the importance of adhering to globally recognized standards for PDUs. Among these, certifications such as UL and CE are important. UL certification signifies compliance with stringent safety standards, ensuring that PDUs meet or exceed industry requirements for electrical safety and reliability. Likewise, CE certification indicates conformity with European Union regulations, validating the product’s compliance with essential health, safety, and environmental protection standards.

Hence, Netrack manufactures premium-quality, CE-certified PDUs. All Netrack products, especially PDUs, undergo thorough testing and scrutiny to meet the highest industry standards. By offering CE-certified PDUs, Netrack ensures that its solutions showcase the integrity and resilience of data center infrastructure, safeguarding against costly downtime and maintaining uninterrupted operations.

New Delhi, Delhi, India  The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League ended on a high note as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinched their third IPL title, defeating the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 8 wickets. Parimatch’s Festival of Winnings added an extra layer of thrill, offering fans numerous opportunities to win big during this cricketing extravaganza.

While the Festival of Winnings winners enjoy their well-deserved prizes, those who missed out can still join the action by taking part in the Festival of Winnings: Afterparty, which provides cricket fans with a mind-blowing opportunity to win Rolex watches and share Rs. 1,00,00,00 prize fund till May 31st!

Let’s recap the incredible journey of this season and savor the highlights of an unforgettable IPL 2024.

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Batting Collapse
Batting first, SRH faced a strong KKR bowling attack that broke down their lineup, resulting in a mere 113 runs. This marked the lowest total ever in an IPL final. SRH’s batting collapse began with the early dismissals of openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. The rest of the batting order struggled to recover, with skipper Pat Cummins top-scoring with just 24 runs off 19 balls. This match was notable for being the first IPL final in which no player from the batting side reached the 30-run mark.

Kolkata Knight Riders’s Dominant Response
In response, KKR’s innings began with an early setback as Sunil Narine was dismissed. However, Rahmanullah Gurbaz held steady while Venkatesh Iyer launched a blistering attack, scoring 40 runs off just 12 balls, including 4 boundaries and 3 sixes. Their partnership propelled KKR to a record powerplay score of 72/1, the highest ever in an IPL final.

Shreyas Iyer Leads KKR to Victory
Despite losing Gurbaz to a Shahbaz Ahmed delivery, skipper Shreyas Iyer joined Venkatesh Iyer to finish the job. KKR chased down the target of 114 runs in just 10.3 overs, with 57 balls to spare. This set a new record for the highest margin of victory in an IPL playoff match, and it was SRH’s most significant defeat in terms of balls remaining.

Post-Match Honors
Sunil Narine’s outstanding all-round performance earned him the ‘Most Valuable Player’ award, making him the first player to win this prestigious accolade three times. Harshal Patel claimed the Purple Cap for his 24 wickets this season, becoming the third player to win it twice, joining the ranks of Dwayne Bravo and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru skipper Virat Kohli was awarded the Orange Cap for amassing 741 runs in the 2024 IPL season. Kohli made history by becoming the first Indian to win the Orange Cap twice, a feat previously achieved only by Chris Gayle and David Warner.

Historic Achievements

• KKR’s Third IPL Title: With this victory, KKR joins the elite club of franchises that have won the IPL title three times.
• Lowest Total in IPL Final: SRH’s 113 runs set a new record for the lowest total in the history of IPL finals.
• Record Powerplay Score: KKR’s 72/1 during the powerplay overs set a new benchmark for the highest score in an IPL final powerplay.
• Largest Victory Margin: KKR’s chase, completed with 57 balls to spare, marked the highest margin of victory in an IPL playoff/knockout match.

Looking Ahead
This season’s triumph underscores KKR’s strategic brilliance and the depth of their squad. Parimatch extends its sincere gratitude to all the participants and sports lovers who made the IPL season an unforgettable journey. With the end of the 17th IPL season, Parimatch remains committed to enhancing the thrill and excitement of sports betting, ensuring that users can continue to enjoy a world-class gaming experience.

Those who missed the action can still join the Festival of Winnings: Afterparty and stand a chance to win prestigious Rolex watches.

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  The preowned car sales market in India is set to reach 10.92 mn. units in FY28 as per the latest edition of the Indian Blue Book (IBB) report by car&bike and Das WeltAuto. by Volkswagen. The Indian Used car industry was valued at $32.44B in FY23 and will more than double to $73B by FY28.

Upgrading to a new pre-owned car is the top reason for owners to sell cars while budget buyers are predominantly looking for quality cars. Customers are also becoming more informed about car technicalities with 71% of buyers looking at MMV (Make, Model & Variant) as a big consideration.

“The latest edition of the Indian Blue Book, a collaboration with Das WeltAuto. by Volkswagen, reinforces our confidence in the Indian pre-owned car market’s explosive growth potential. The increasing involvement of organized players is bringing stability and trust to this market; achieving consistent profitability and providing superlative customer experience remains the top priorities for organized players,” said Mr. Ashutosh Pandey, CEO & MD, of Mahindra First Choice.

Buyer Highlights

• The report found that majority of buyers are highly budget conscious (63 %) and looking for quality cars.
• Customers have become more informed about the technicalities of cars with 71% of buyers acknowledging overall repairs & servicing costs as a big consideration.
• Big shift noticed among consumers, who are prioritizing safety as a key feature in a used car, giving impetus to brands like Volkswagen for their 5-star GNCAP product portfolio of Taigun and Virtus
• 45% of buyers/intenders prefer local dealers for exploring, followed by Auto Tech Start-ups (26 %) & OEM backed brands (23 %).
• In terms of awareness and preferences of car leasing, 28% of buyers were aware of the concept while 62% of buyers would avail it in the future.
• Warranty and financial assistance topped the list of demands in terms of services.
• A majority of 56% did not prefer an EV used car.

Seller Perspective

• Upgrading to a new used car top reason to sell cars among 59% of respondents, followed by sufficiency of having another vehicle has increased as extra cars bought during COVID-19 are being sold now.
• Due to the Fastrack process in auto tech startups & OEM backed companies, the actual Turn Around Time (TAT) to sell a car has come down to 3 days
• Full payment within 24 hours remains the top priority among sellers during the sale process followed by vehicle inspection at a location of their choice.

“The pre-owned car market is significantly growing with the potential of it being double by FY 2028. The growth primarily comes from the evolving trends and customer preferences while selecting a pre-owned vehicle. A notable shift is the top priority for safety features, a transition similar to the new car industry, enabling a brand like Volkswagen, to be more accessible and in-demand for customers with our 5-star GNCAP rated product portfolio – Taigun and Virtus. The high preference for safety features and standards among customers is positively impacting the residual value of Volkswagen cars, especially the Taigun. We are confident the Das WeltAuto. business, will continue to grow as one of the top certified pre-owned car brands in India for customers,” said Mr. Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India.

Mahindra First Choice Wheels-backed Indian Blue Book launched the first edition in 2015 to highlight the trends in the used car industry in India. Since then, the annual report has been established as the largest and most intensive primary research conducted in India. Since 2022 Das WeltAuto., the pre-owned car brand of Volkswagen, and car&bike, a 100 % subsidiary of Mahindra First Choice Wheels, have co-curated this research report.

Gurgaon, Haryana, India Niswarth Kadam, led by its visionary founder Pramod Raghav, is proud to announce the upcoming launch of its first mobile skill development center. Initially, the pilot project will start from Gurgaon, and then it will expand across India. This innovative initiative is designed to bring vital skills training directly to communities across the country, empowering individuals with practical knowledge and capabilities that can significantly improve their livelihoods.

The mobile skill development center will travel from one location to another, ensuring that people in both urban and rural areas have access to a wide range of short-term courses tailored to meet the needs of today’s dynamic job market. The center will offer courses in basic computer skills (MS Office, Internet browsing), sewing and tailoring, basic cooking and nutrition, gardening and urban farming, beauty and grooming techniques, art and painting techniques, Mehendi, Basic first aid, and patient care.

Pramod Raghav, commenting on this landmark project, said, “Our goal with the mobile skill development center is to democratize education and skill training. By bringing these opportunities directly to people’s doorsteps, we can help bridge the skills gap and empower individuals to take control of their futures.”

The mobile center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and is staffed by experienced trainers who are dedicated to providing high-quality education and hands-on training. This approach ensures that learners can immediately apply what they have learned in real-world scenarios, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial prospects.

Niswarth Kadam has always been at the forefront of social impact initiatives, and this mobile skill development center is yet another testament to their commitment to fostering inclusive growth and development across India.

Delhi NCR, India REnergy Dynamics (RED), a company dedicated to advancing the renewable sector with a special focus on bioenergy and fostering sustainable energy solutions, proudly announced its official launch today. Co-founded by Kushagra Nandan (Serial Clean Tech entrepreneur, Co-Founder & former MD – of SunSource Energy) and Varun Karad (BioEnergy Entrepreneur), RED will operate as an integrated techno-financial platform developing sustainable energy projects that contribute to a greener future.

With a commitment to environmental stewardship and technological prowess and a strong backing of experienced leaders in integrated renewable energy projects, the new venture has set ambitious goals for itself. REnergy Dynamics is targeting to close orders worth Rs. 5000 crore by 2029, with Rs. 575 crore worth of projects already confirmed and under execution. This business will primarily come from four focus areas namely: development of company-owned large-scale bioenergy projects; Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services to Renewable Energy developers; feedstock aggregation and its supply to Compressed BioGas (CBG) projects to ensure a reliable feedstock supply; and manufacturing and supply of biogas plant components.

RED has a robust pipeline of self-owned Bioenergy projects with under construction projects in South and West India, with a cumulative capacity of 50 Tons Per Day (TPD) of CBG and several other projects already in advanced stages of planning. Additionally, RED is executing three large-scale EPC projects for setting up CBG units with cumulative capacities of 67 TPD for Reliance Industries Limited. Two of the under-construction projects are in West India and the third one is in North India. The company has also received orders for the supply of biomass for Bioenergy projects across multiple States.

“Our mission at RED is to help preserve our planet and contribute to our nation’s goal of achieving net zero status by 2070. A key unlock of this journey lies in empowering communities and businesses to embrace sustainable energy,” said Kushagra Nandan, Chairman and Managing Director, RED.

“With the launch of our innovative bioenergy portfolio, we are proud to offer a transformative solution that not only addresses the pressing need for renewable energy but also contributes to the circular economy by repurposing organic waste materials,” Nandan added.

Bioenergy, a renewable source derived from organic waste materials such as agricultural by-products, food waste, and municipal solid waste, offers immense potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating environmental degradation.

Speaking on the occasion, Varun Karad, CEO, RED said, “By unleashing the power of bioenergy, RED is poised to catalyse a paradigm shift towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future. Through our scalable and customizable renewable energy solutions tailored to the unique needs of diverse industries, we aim to drive positive change and inspire others to join the movement towards a greener, cleaner world.”

2nd Ju ly 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Wonderful Pistachios, the world’s largest grower and processor of pistachios and distributor of California Pistachios in India, released today, World Nutrition Day, the findings of a new global study that sheds light on the snacking habits of urban Indians. The study, commissioned with Material, a leading global research consultancy, which included 10 countries and over 12,400 respondents, revealed a new behavioral trend that urban Indian consumers prioritize nutrition over taste when it comes to snacking. This growing preference for healthy snacking emphasizes the importance of good nutrition for overall well-being.

For the Indian market specifically, the study delved into the snacking habits of 2,415 shoppers across six Indian cities, which represented a population of approximately 35.9 million consumers. Remarkably, a majority of urban Indians (58%) reported basing their food purchasing decisions on nutritional benefits more than taste, exceeding the global average of 52%. Delhi and Ahmedabad lead with over 60% of urban shoppers preferring nutrition in their food. Bengaluru and Chennai follow closely, indicating a nationwide shift towards smarter snacking preferences. In India, Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge in health-conscious purchasing decisions, with more than 83% of consumers in these age groups reading nutritional labels before buying.

Indian consumers prioritize four key factors when shopping for nutritional snacks: natural (free of artificial colours and preservatives), heart-healthy, protein-rich, and provides energy. Nine out of 10 urban shoppers consciously seek protein-rich food options, compared to the global average of seven out of 10. The focus on nutrition has fueled the rise of nuts as a preferred snack choice, becoming essential to daily eating habits. The study found a staggering consumption of nuts, with 86% of Indian shoppers reporting purchasing them in a span of 6 months, compared to just 75% globally. With 6g of protein in per 28g serving, California Pistachios are a smart snack choice that provides benefits without sacrificing taste.

Shail Pancholi, Country Director, India, Wonderful Pistachios, commented on the study, saying, “Nuts were traditionally used as garnishes and consumed during festivals, but have now become a popular snack in India, indicating a notable shift in dietary habits. Pistachio consumption in India has doubled in the last six years, as consumer awareness of the nutritional benefits that pistachios offer has grown. Consumers are discovering that pistachios are naturally cholesterol-free, rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber, and provide over 30 different vitamins and minerals.”

Interestingly, the study found that nuts are the second most preferred snack among urban Indian consumers, with 64% of Baby Boomers and 59% of Gen Z prioritizing nutrition over taste when selecting food. This indicates a growing focus on health across generations, with Baby Boomers focusing on senior wellness and Gen Z reflecting the rise of mindful purchasing. Though on opposite ends of the age spectrum, these two generations take the lead in seeking protein-rich options, as well as preferring natural snacks.

Mumbai tops most of the consideration sets when choosing a snack. Residents opt for natural ingredients (35% vs. the national average of 30%), heart-healthy options (33% vs. 30%), and protein (33% vs. 29%). Chennai residents look for energy-boosting snacks (31% vs. the national average of 29%).

The fact that 69% of urban Indians surveyed have the opinion that plant-based protein is just as good as meat-based protein reflects a positive shift towards varied dietary preferences. Pistachios are a good source of high-quality complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. A 28g serving of pistachios provides 6g of protein, which is 11% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) according to FSSAI.

The Wonderful Pistachios study unveils a compelling shift in Indian snacking habits. Nuts are evolving from festive treats to a daily snacking staple, fueled by a nationwide preference for more nutritious options. The trend transcends generations, resonating with Gen Z and Baby Boomers alike, underscoring the growing importance of mindful eating in urban India. As consumers increasingly seek natural, heart-healthy, protein-rich, and energy-boosting snacks, the future of Indian snacking appears to be firmly rooted in nutrition and well-being.

Wonderful Pistachios
Wonderful® Pistachios is the world’s largest grower and processor of pistachios, with a global presence in over 70 countries. As a vertically integrated operation, they are experts in every step of the process from tree to shelf, ensuring the highest-quality product every time. In tandem with its Grower Partners, Wonderful Pistachios harvests 125,000 sunny acres (50,000 hectares) of land in California that receive warm days and cool nights, which work in harmony with the rich, natural soils to create the perfect growing climate for high-quality pistachios. They ship 600 million pounds (204 million kg) of nuts worldwide from their advanced processing facilities to ensure the highest standards are met. When it comes to pistachios, Wonderful® Pistachios expertise is unmatched in scale and capacity, paired with warehouses and sales teams worldwide that are well-equipped to provide support at every step of the way.

California Pistachios
California Pistachios are grown and distributed by The Wonderful Company, the world’s largest vertically integrated pistachio processor and marketer located in California’s Central Valley. California Pistachios are non-GMO, providing a smart, healthy choice for consumers around the world. Sun-ripened in the moderate Mediterranean climate of California, these distinctively green nuts pack taste and contain antioxidants and over 30 different nutrients. California Pistachios in India are available under leading brands and private labels at retail outlets, grocery stores, and online platforms.

DPS Indirapuram organized two international tours for its students to broaden their cultural and educational perspectives. The two trips covered Singapore, Malaysia, and the iconic sites in Europe. The students immersed themselves in each destination’s rich traditions and vibrant atmospheres, from the bustling cities to their architectural marvels.

Students ventured to Singapore and Malaysia from 31st May to 7th June 2024, experiencing seven days of cultural discovery, educational enrichment, and culinary delight. They marveled at iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay, Little India, and Chinatown in Singapore. Exciting adventures at Sentosa Island, Universal Studios, and the serene Gardens by the Bay left lasting impressions. In Malaysia, the group explored Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, enjoying luxurious stays and visiting notable sites like the Batu Caves and KLCC Tower. Seamless travel and scenic drives enriched their journey. Meanwhile, visits to educational hubs like the NeWater Visitor Centre, URA, Stem Workshop, Batik Painting Session, and cultural landmarks added depth to their experience.

Another group comprising 19 students and 2 teachers embarked on a 9-day educational tour across Europe from 10th June to 19th June 2024. The trip covered Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and France. The journey included a guided bicycle tour of Munich, a visit to the BMW museum, and an exploration of Innsbruck and the Swarovski Crystal World in Austria. The group also visited a cuckoo clock factory and the Rhine Falls en route to Zurich. The students enjoyed excursions to Mt. Titlis and Lucerne in Switzerland, and the tour concluded in Paris with visits to the Eiffel Tower, a Seine River Cruise, and a day at Disneyland Paris.

Ms. Priya John, Principal of DPS Indirapuram, expressed, “ We are proud to offer such enriching opportunities that leave a lasting impact on our students. The trips were a captivating blend of historical exploration and breathtaking natural scenery, providing an unforgettable taste of each destination’s varied heritage. We look forward to organizing more such educational tours for our students.”

 

Hyderabad, July 2nd, 2024: The Rotary Club of Lake District Moinabad (Rotary District 3150, India), in association with Premier Energies Ltd. and Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), is spearheading a major service project. The initiative involves a donation of ₹2.1 Crores from Premier Energies Ltd. to NIMS, aimed at establishing a Paediatric Epilepsy Centre and renovating the crèche facilities to offer specialized care for children and enhance employee welfare. The initial amount towards the project was presented at a program held at ITC Kohenur.

The Rotary Club of Lake District Moinabad is dedicated to impactful service activities, supported by the Rotary Foundation and Rotary Clubs worldwide. The club focuses on projects in areas such as safe water, literacy, education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability, particularly for remote communities lacking access to essential development opportunities.

Previous and Upcoming Projects:

In previous years, the Rotary Club launched a project of over ₹1.10 Crores to recycle plastic waste in Vizag City and its beaches. Collaborating with Sai Sanjivini Hospital, the club funded pediatric heart surgeries for 90 underprivileged children, amounting to ₹1.17 Crores. Rotary Club also established a hospital for Paediatric Heart surgeries at Siddipet in Telangana with 100% free-of-cost surgeries. Other significant projects included distributing pushcarts, establishing kitchens for children, and distributing bicycles, among many others.

For the upcoming year, the club plans to extend its impact with projects such as:

Intensive Care Unit for Paediatric Epilepsy Patients at NIMS.

Renovation of the crèche for employees’ children at NIMS.

Provision of interactive TVs and learning content to government schools.

Construction of a diagnostics center in Secunderabad.

Mission 100 Toilets.

Leadership and Event Details:

This particular project with NIMS will be executed under the presidency of Rotarian Chiranjeev Saluja, Managing Director of Premier Energies Limited, with active support from Rotarian Uday Pilani and other Rotary Club members. Rotarian Chiranjeev Saluja was installed as President on June 30, 2024. During the installation ceremony, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Rotary Club Lake District Moinabad, Premier Energies Limited, and Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences, outlining the project’s scope.

Ecloset is thrilled to announce its rebranding to Ecloset Beauty Essentials, accompanied by the unveiling of a new tagline, ‘Beauty in Your Pocket’. This strategic move reflects our commitment to providing essential beauty solutions that cater to the modern lifestyle.

As part of our rebranding initiative, we are excited to introduce our latest innovation: the Ecloset Beauty Essentials Compact Makeup Kit. Designed with the needs of working women and travelers in mind, this compact kit offers a comprehensive solution for on-the-go beauty needs. It combines essential makeup items in a sleek and portable package, ensuring convenience without compromising on quality.

“Our transition to Ecloset Beauty Essentials marks an exciting new chapter for our brand,” said Rashmi Chopra, Founder & Managing Director at Ecloset Beauty Essentials. “With our new tagline ‘Beauty in Your Pocket’ and the launch of our Compact Makeup Kit, we aim to empower women to look and feel their best effortlessly, anytime and anywhere.”

Chennai, 2nd July 2024: Art Houz Gallery Chennai, has organized the solo show of artist Vijay Pichumani titled – ‘By Nature’s Force: Veli Vetridamaakha Nagarkirathu’ at Lalit Kala Akademi Regional Centre. The exhibition features a diverse collection of prints, woodcuts, mixed-media works, and sculptures that unveil how the artist transformed his experiences into visual narratives. Chief Guests Shri K.S.V.V. Prasad, Commissioner of Customs (Import), Mr. Pa. Ranjith, eminent film director, and Mr. Rayan Ibrahim, Principal Architect, Rayan Ibrahim Architects inaugurated the exhibition, with Dr. Ashrafi S. Bhagat, an art historian, critic and curator and, Mr. Joe Malloori, Actor, writer and poet serving as the Guests of Honour.

‘By Nature’s Force: Veli Vetridamakha Nagarkirathu’ invites viewers to delve into deeper meanings and connections about identity, tradition, and human experience within their community while provoking contemplation on memory, movement, and nature’s enduring influence.

For artist Vijay Pichumani, the force of Mother Nature is the critical element that echoes through his works. His knowledge, skill, and talent make him a versatile artist through his unparalleled connection with man, humanity, and nature. This could be attributed to his upbringing and childhood memories from a small village in Kanyakumari.

Often termed autobiographical, Vijay’s works explore the world around us, with the artist using his experiences that have shaped him at every stage of his career. These experiences encompass the sights he saw, the sounds he heard, the people he met, and the emotions he experienced over the trajectory of his travels. Like trees in the natural realm, the material wood plays a significant role in his art practice, evoking a tactile quality.

Each work of Vijay Pichumani is an anecdote of his experience with nature. This includes his observations, metaphors, and relativity of particular elements with people around him. To make his work more effective in conveying his experiences, he often sought to connect the concept with the medium and technique. Through this, he reveals to the audience the adventures that define him as a person.

On View: 30th June 2024 – 4th July 2024

Venue: Lalit Kala Akademi, Regional Centre, Chennai; Timings: 11:00 a.m – 7:00 p.m