Archives July 2024

6th July 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  In its commitment to environmental conservation, Bisleri International organized a series of impactful events across India around World Earth Day. In line with the United Nations’ 8 sustainable development goals (SDGs), including Quality Education (SDG 4), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), Climate Action (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14), Life on Land (SDG 15), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17), these initiatives encompassed awareness sessions, plastic collection drives, tree plantation campaigns, and beach clean-ups.

These drives and campaigns were conducted across 13 cities namely New Delhi, Noida, Chandigarh, Kargil, Jaipur, Gurugram, Chennai, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pondicherry, Coimbatore, Vishakhapatnam. To maximize the impact, Bisleri collaborated with various recyclers, educational institutions, and 16 non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

K Ganesh, Director CSR & Public Affairs, Bisleri International, highlighted the collaborative nature of their initiatives, stating, “Through our coordinated efforts and strategic alliances, we’ve achieved milestones in our commitment to environmental sustainability. Partnering with NGOs, recyclers and educational Institutions enabled us to extend our reach and foster a collective commitment to environmental stewardship. By involving people across the country, we were able to foster a culture of responsible waste management and environmental protection in addition to conserving ecosystems.”

1,925 Saplings were planted in eight cities, enriching urban greenery, and promoting environmental sustainability. Through partnerships with recyclers, educational institutes, and NGOs, 22.699 MT of used plastic was collected from 13 cities, contributing to cleaner surroundings and the protection of ecosystems.

Efforts were made to clean up beaches, preserve marine habitats, and promote responsible waste disposal. 82 events and awareness sessions were conducted to educate more than 14,245 citizens, about the importance of environmental conservation. 38.59 metric tonnes of carbon emissions were reduced. 412.448 kiloliters of water were saved, 131.067 megawatt-hours (MWH) of energy was saved landfill space of 18386.6 cubic feet was eliminated and 58.814 kiloliters of oil was saved.

6th July 2024  Faridabad, Haryana, India  The exceptional students of Manav Rachna International Schools have once again illuminated the academic landscape by securing outstanding results in the CBSE Grade 10 and 12 Examinations 2024.

A network of 8 Schools in North India in Faridabad, Gurugram, Noida, Ludhiana and Mohali, Manav Rachna International Schools have made their mark in the CBSE results for Grades 10th and 12th with 100% Passing Strength. Each of these educational hubs are dedicated to providing an environment conducive to holistic growth and learning.

CBSE Result 2024 – Grade 10 Toppers

6th July 2024  Manipal, Karnataka, India  Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence, deemed to be a university, one of India’s leading research-focused educational institutions, has jumped to the 175th spot in the Times Higher Education Young University Ranking, with an overall score of 43.6. This marks an impressive improvement of 75 positions from the previous ranking band of 251-300, upholding MAHE’s position as an institution dedicated to academic excellence and innovation.

The Times Higher Education Young University Rankings, released on May 14, 2024, list the best universities that are 50 years old or younger, including institutions that were founded between 1974 and the present. Using 18 performance indicators, the universities are judged across all their core missions of teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook. This year’s edition witnessed a substantial increase in the participating institutions, with 673 ranked universities and a further 499 institutions listed as “reporter” status, bringing the total to 1172. Notably, India is well-represented with 55 ranked institutions, demonstrating the nation’s growing prominence in the global higher education landscape.

Speaking on the new rank and expressing profound pride, Lt. Gen. (Dr) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, Manipal, said, “We are thrilled to be ranked 175th in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings this year. This significant jump of 75 positions and an overall score of 43.6 is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and tireless efforts of the entire MAHE community. This recognition strengthens our position as a leading institution for higher education and research in India. We are committed to continuous improvement and providing our students with an exceptional learning experience, fostering innovative research, and nurturing a vibrant academic environment. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our faculty, students, staff, and partners for their invaluable contributions”.

6th July 2024  Gurgaon, Haryana, India  The Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FEAT) at SGT University, Gurgaon, successfully celebrated National Technology Day on May 13th and 14th, 2024. The event, fully funded by the Haryana State Council for Science and Technology, Government of Haryana, brought together students, faculty, and distinguished speakers to explore the theme “School to Startup: Igniting young minds to innovate” and “Scitech and Sustainability for Industry 5.0”.

The celebration commenced with an inspiring address by Dr. S. P. Agarwal, Pro Vice-Chancellor of SGT University, who emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary projects. Dr. Sugandha Singh, Dean of FEAT, delivered informative remarks, highlighting the significance of National Technology Day, which commemorates the success of the 1998 Pokran nuclear test.

“Technology thrives when it blends in and becomes an inherent component of life, unnoticed to the unskilled. On National Technology Day, the nation’s advancements in an assortment of technological accomplishments are celebrated. To inspire its students and work in compliance with the Ministry of Education, SGT University, Gurugram places a strong emphasis on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education,” remarked Dr. Sugandha Singh, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering & Technology.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Deepak Waikar, a professor at the University of New Castle in Singapore, captivated the audience with his interactive presentation on green and smart energy sources for a sustainable net-zero future. Ms. Pooja Kumar, Founder and Director of Innovate Intellects LLP, delivered an engaging talk on the “Importance of IPR in Academics and Research”, introducing students to concepts such as patents, trademarks, designs, and geographical indications.

FEAT alumnus and Cyber Crime Investigation Officer, Mr. Devansh, shared his expertise on bug bounty programs in the cyber field. The event also featured a thought-provoking ‘Cyberscam’ skit performed by engineering students, raising awareness about online security threats.

The highlight of the celebration was “The Innovation Engine: Propelling Ideas through Scitech” competition, showcasing the innovative ideas of SGT University students through interactive demonstrations. The judging panel, consisting of Ms. Pooja Kumar, Dr. Neeraj Saini (HoD, CE), Mr. Dinesh Deshwal (HoD, ME), and Dr. Amit Asthana (Associate Professor, CSE), evaluated the 20 entries submitted by 45 students.

The National Technology Day 2024 celebration at SGT University’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology concluded with a prize distribution ceremony and felicitation of mentors and exceptional contributors. The event successfully ignited young minds, fostering innovation and a commitment to sustainable technologies for the future.

6th July 2024  Pune, Maharashtra, India  Bajaj Markets, a leading digital financial marketplace, offers a diverse range of investment instruments, including Fixed Deposits (FD), through partnerships with several banks and NBFCs. These FDs present an ideal opportunity to start saving, secure one’s future, and achieve various financial goals.

Many individuals receive annual bonuses which often remain uninvested or are spent on purchasing non-essential objects. Instead, one can consider investing the amount in FDs to make the most of it. One of the key highlights of the FDs available on Bajaj Markets are the attractive interest rates, with some issuers offering up to 9.00% p.a.

On Bajaj Markets, investors can conveniently compare and book fixed deposits from these reputed issuers:

*Disclaimer: The mentioned interest rates are subject to change at the issuer’s discretion.

By investing their annual bonus in FDs, individuals could benefit from the stability and security these instruments offer. They can also invest in tax-saver FDs issued by banks to claim tax deductions. These investments are eligible for deductions up to Rs. 1.50 Lakhs under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961, per financial year.

Booking an FD on Bajaj Markets offers several benefits, including:

• Quick Processing: Fast and efficient online FD booking process
• Auto-Renewal Facility: Option for auto-renewal on select FDs, ensuring continuous investment without manual intervention and loss of interest
• Premature Closure Options: Flexibility to close FDs before maturity if needed, subject to certain terms and conditions
• Loan Against FDs: Opportunity to obtain loans against FDs from certain issuers, providing liquidity without premature closure

The platform also provides a user-friendly experience with a wide range of investment options, serving as a one-stop destination for all investment needs. Investors can easily start their savings journey through the Bajaj Markets website or app.

6th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  In a concerted effort to address the pressing issue of protein deficiency among the Indian populace, the Poultry Federation of India (PFI) with support from USA Poultry and Eggs Export Council (USAPEEC) recently hosted a session held on 18th May 2024 in New Delhi, which convened leading industry experts to underscore the indispensable role of poultry protein in addressing India’s nutritional challenges. With participation from renowned industry experts, this served as a platform to advocate for enhanced protein intake, particularly through poultry products like chicken, duck, turkey, and eggs.

The Poultry Federation of India (PFI) and USA Poultry and Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) recently forged a collaborative partnership to promote poultry proteins which signals a significant step forward in promoting awareness and consumption of poultry protein as a pivotal component of daily diets.

Protein deficiency remains a critical concern in India, as highlighted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Despite established recommendations emphasizing the importance of adequate protein consumption for optimal health, the nation continues to grapple with subpar dietary protein intake, significantly below recommended levels. According to a recent survey by the Indian Market Research Bureau (IMRB), a staggering 73% of urban affluent individuals are protein deficient, with a vast majority unaware of their daily protein requirements or suitable protein sources.

Mr. Ranpal Dhanda – President, Poultry Federation of India, Mr. Ravinder Singh Sandhu – Secretary, Poultry Federation of India, Mr. Ricky Thaper – Treasurer, Poultry Federation of India, Ms. Pratibha Dixit – Nutritionist/Dietician, Artemis Hospital, Dr. Ajit Ranade – Vice President, World Veterinary Poultry Association and Mr. Shiven Khanna – USAPEEC were key speakers.

Mr. Ranpal Dhanda, President of the Poultry Federation of India, addressed protein deficiency in India. He stated, “We’re glad to collaborate with USAPEEC to raise awareness about the health benefits of poultry products. Through the combined knowledge, our objective is to amplify understanding regarding the nutritional benefits of poultry products and elevate the standards of health and wellness.”

Mr. Ricky Thaper, Treasurer, of the Poultry Federation of India added that Chicken meat and eggs are perceived as healthier alternatives to red meat, driving up the demand. Poultry products are often more affordable than other protein sources, making them accessible to a broader segment of the population. Mr. Thaper further stated that in the post-COVID-19 pandemic phase, the demand for protein-rich food like poultry meat and eggs has increased sharply. The growing awareness regarding health and wellness is further driving the demand for a protein-rich diet.

During the Session on Poultry Protein, Dr. Pratibha Dixit, emphasized the imperative of raising awareness about protein’s significance in daily nutrition. She stressed the need to educate individuals on appropriate protein intake levels and the diverse sources of protein available in the diet. Poultry products emerged as standout examples of complete and bioavailable proteins, offering a comprehensive nutritional profile essential for overall health.

Dr Jeetendra Verma, President, World Veterinary Poultry Association (India) explained the goodness of chicken meat. He said that Chicken meat is a high-quality protein containing all nine essential amino acids in right proportions. It’s a Lean Protein with high nutrient density. Means it provides essential vitamins and minerals also including B complex vitamins, selenium, phosphorus and niacin. Chicken protein also helps in muscle management and growth, hence it is very popular and essential for athletes and individuals looking for building the muscle mass.

Further elucidating the nutritional merits of poultry protein, Dr. Ajit Ranade, Vice President of the World Veterinary Poultry Association, emphasized its role as a complete protein source. Highlighting the goodness of healthy proteins, fats, and micronutrients inherent in poultry products, he underscored their efficacy in bolstering immunity and overall well-being.

The session provided attendees with an opportunity to delve deeper into the nuances of protein consumption and its implications for public health. Discussions revolved around strategies to enhance awareness, promote dietary diversity, and expand opportunities for poultry products.

The collaborative efforts between PFI and USAPEEC, signify a multifaceted approach encompassing education, research and development, and nutritional awareness. By collaborating with their expertise, this initiative aims to catalyze a paradigm shift in addressing India’s protein deficiency challenge, positioning poultry protein as a cornerstone of a balanced and nourishing diet.

In conclusion, the session served as a pivotal moment in galvanizing stakeholders toward combatting protein deficiency. Poultry protein holds immense promise in fortifying India’s nutritional landscape.

6th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  In line with the customer demand for the summer season, Signify, the global leader in lighting, announced the launch of its new revolutionary range of energy-efficient fans, today. The innovative product line combines advanced technology with superior performance, offering consumers a breath of fresh air in any space. Starting at a price range of INR 3000/- to INR 5500/-, the product line includes five new innovative models – AiroGeometry, AiroJewel, AiroZephyr, AiroSerenade and AiroSleek all designed to provide superior air delivery, efficient performance, and significant energy savings.

AiroJewel – Effortless control at your fingertips

The uniquely designed product range operates on advanced technology ensuring high energy efficiency and low power consumption. Equipped with aluminum blades and copper winding heavy-duty motors, these fans guarantee durability and high performance. The high-speed fans with 370RPM are designed for superior air delivery.

AiroGeometry – Striking geometrical shape with LED indicators

The AiroGeometry fans are inspired by its striking geometrical shape and the AiroJewel fan design resembles a rare jewel that boasts a unique display screen with LED indicators. The BLDC range comes with aluminum blades for superior air delivery, BLDC power-saving technology, and runs 3X longer on the inverter.

The new BLDC range comes with a 2+1-year warranty along an RF multidirectional remote that offers reverse and turbo speed modes. The BLDC range has a 5-star BEE rating, further reinforcing their energy efficiency and Signify’s commitment to sustainability.

Sumit Joshi, CEO of Signify, Greater India said, “In line with our commitment to provide energy-efficient solutions to customers across India, we are excited to introduce our power packed new range of Ecolink fans. At Signify, we believe in creating products that not only meet but exceed our consumer’s expectations. We are thrilled to introduce our latest range of energy-efficient fans, which represent a significant leap forward in innovation and design. Through research, we have actioned what our consumers want and created a range of fans that combines cutting-edge technology to deliver superior performance and energy savings. With models like AiroGeometry and AiroJewel, we have incorporated unique designs & features such as LED speed indicators, BLDC technology, and inverter compatibility to ensure an exceptional user experience. We are confident that this revolutionary product line will redefine the standard for modern cooling solutions.”

C Arun Kumar, Head Consumer Business, Signify Greater India said, “We have thoroughly crafted our new Ecolink fans to operate on minimal energy, effectively aiding consumers in reducing power consumption and lowering electricity expenses. The range is a one of its kind holistic offering for the customers, giving them a featured packed superior performing, eco-friendly and cost-saving solution. We are confident that our customers will appreciate the innovation that has gone into creating this range as we are all set to redefine the energy-efficient fan market in India.”

The newly launched fans are specifically designed to work with minimal energy usage, assisting consumers in lowering power costs and saving money on electricity bills, solving the most common issue about high energy consumption when using an appliance. The AiroGeometry and AiroJewel models can save up to Rs. 1485 per annum and come with Sleep and Timer modes which help enhance the consumer experience.

The AiroZephyr, AiroSerenade and AiroSleek models, on the other hand, offer a 2-year warranty, unique design, low power consumption, superior air delivery, efficient performance. These models feature a heavy-duty copper winding motor and are available in a variety of colors and save up to Rs. 895 per annum.

The Ecolink range is available in a variety of color options, adding aesthetic value to any space. From Dark Coffee Brown, Titanium Grey, and Silver Mist to Aspen Gold, Pearl White, and Smoke Mocha Brown, there’s a color to match every interior.

6th July 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  India’s leading feminine-care brand Whisper, from the house of Procter & Gamble, is raising awareness about – the early onset of menstruation among young girls – as part of the fifth edition of its #KeepGirlsInSchool (KGIS) movement. With girls starting periods as early as 8 years of age, the need to create awareness early on is crucial, as 26 million girls can be at risk of dropping out of school without period education and access to period products.* Studies have found that one out of five girls could be dropping out of school due to a lack of period education and access to period products.**

In India today, girls as young as 8 years of age are beginning their menstrual cycle, as per several reports, and so are at a higher risk of dropping out of school due to a lack of period education. This could lead to an escalation in absenteeism and increased dropout rate if they do not learn and are made aware at the right time. Whisper is at the forefront of educating girls across the country about the importance of menstrual hygiene, normalizing any myths and taboos about periods, to decreasing dropout rates caused by insufficient information and lack of access to period products. To date, Whisper’s Keep Girls In School program has taught over 100 million schoolgirls and mothers about periods and period products, and provided free sanitary napkins to girls.

Whisper’s new emotional film features young 8-year-old girls who know nothing about menstruation and think up the worst possible scenarios as the cause of unexpected bleeding in one of their friends. The film aims to normalise this natural biological change in their body by educating young girls in school about the early onset of periods with a fun, catchy jingle that reiterates, “periods ka matlab healthy hai aap (periods means you are healthy)”.

Rajdeepak Das, Chief Creative Officer, Publicis Groupe – South Asia and Chairman Leo Burnett – South Asia said, “Our ongoing research about the changing conversations around menstruation identified a glaring anomaly – girls today are getting their periods much earlier than before. However, they are being educated about periods at a much later stage or oftentimes not at all. Whisper and Leo Burnett have been on a journey to keep girls in school for a long time and we wanted to bridge this gap. Our latest work talks to the 8-year-olds in a language they can understand, with a heartwarming song that teaches them that getting periods means they are healthy. The goal is to not just teach the little girls but also use the song as a tool to equip her ecosystem- parents and educators, enabling them to teach periods in an empowering manner.”

“There is a seismic shift happening in period biology. This heightens the need to educate girls early on and to prepare them to embrace this biological process. Through this initiative, we strive to educate them about how periods are healthy and how they can take care of themselves on their period days. Every year, Whisper goes to more than 60,000 schools to create period education programs and we are now also going to younger standards. Consumers too can do their bit buying a Whisper Ultra pack which will help us educate and donate pads to one girl to keep her in school,” said Girish Kalyanaraman, Vice President & Category Leader – India Feminine Care at Procter & Gamble.

KGIS is an initiative by Whisper which aims to reduce the stigma attached to menstruation, create awareness and reduce the number of girls who drop due to the lack of information around menstrual hygiene. KGIS has taught over 100 million school girls about periods and period products till date. For the first time, Whisper has used music to raise awareness about periods; through a fun and catchy jingle, “periods ka matlab healthy hai aap”.

*Based on Dasra report by USAID & Kiawah Trust, UNESCO UNFA ASRO report: ‘The precocious period: the impact of early menarche on schooling in India’ 2019 68 p.

6th July 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  Timezone India is thrilled to announce its recent recognition as “Most Admired Retailer of the Year” at the Images Retail Awards 2024. This prestigious accolade highlights Timezone’s commitment to excellence, innovation, guest satisfaction, and the consistent delivery of exciting entertainment experiences that are suitable for guests of all ages.

“We are deeply honoured to receive this esteemed recognition. This award reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional value and experiences to our guests. It also highlights the hard work and passion of our talented Fun Squad who consistently strive for excellence. We are proud to deliver outstanding entertainment experiences that spread happiness and create memorable moments for our guests,” said Mr Abbas Jabalpurwala, CEO, of Timezone India.

The driving ethos of the Timezone brand is bringing people together through having fun and making memories. Timezone is consistently pushing the boundaries of what family entertainment centers can offer. This award recognizes the dedication of the team and motivates them to continue raising the bar and setting new standards for retail excellence in India, and all the markets in which Timezone operates.

Jabalpurwala continues, “As Timezone India celebrates this significant achievement, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal guests, dedicated team, and supportive partners who have contributed to our success. Looking forward, Timezone India remains excited about the opportunities to innovate further and continue making every guest experience in our venues exceptional and memorable.”

6th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Pluugin E-commerce, having established a robust presence in global markets like Southeast Asia (SEA), SAARC, and Middle East & North Africa (MENA), is expanding its operations to India. Pluugin is a borderless e-commerce enabler, facilitating brands in scaling up their businesses across international borders.

Headquartered in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it has offices across SEA, SAARC countries, and MENA. Founded in 2022, the company has experienced a 100% year-on-year growth. This speaks to the ever-increasing need of e-commerce in brands’ business models and the effectiveness of Pluugin’s expertise in the field. The company boasts of a roster of prestigious clients from across sectors like FMCG, consumer electronics, small appliances, health & wellness, personal care, beverages, confectionery, power tools, and baby & mom care, among others.’

With its set of comprehensive solutions, both digital and on-ground, Pluugin envisions shrinking the boundaries between industries and geographies, by tailoring localized solutions for businesses. Its wide array of services includes end-to-end Logistics Support, Supply Chain & Warehouse Management, Cross-Border Payment Solutions, Marketplace & Platform Management, Risk Management & Regulations, and Data Insights & Market Analysis to offer a key understanding of the market-brand fit.

With this expansion, Plugin is looking to create over 2100 jobs in the local market over the next 3 years. Currently operational in 12 states, the company is looking at 100% pan-India coverage in the next 12 months. India will also cater as the backend office for its global operations in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Commenting on the expansion, Aparna Gupta, Founder & Managing Director, Pluugin E-commerce, said, “We truly believe that every brand has the potential to be borderless in today’s e-commerce landscape and we intend to help them leverage it, with a strong focus on MSMEs. We are proud to say that Pluugin has disrupted the ‘e-commerce accelerator’ category with its unique positioning and offerings, currently being the only entity enabling cross-border commerce on such a large magnitude. With our strategic entry into the Indian market, we bring new potential growth opportunities within the e-commerce space, enabling a global presence for all ‘Make In India’ brands.”

E-commerce is one of the fastest growing markets in India, continuously expanding its reach beyond the metro cities and into the tier 2 & 3 areas of the country. In 2024, it is estimated at USD 112.93 billion and is expected to reach USD 299.01 billion by 2029.