Archives August 2024

As the world embraces electric mobility, a significant hurdle to widespread electric vehicle (EV) adoption persists: the need for an economically sustainable charging infrastructure. In India, the EV charging network is expanding, with the number of stations reaching nearly 12,146 due to various initiatives aimed at speeding up their deployment. Despite this growth, EV drivers still face challenges in finding reliable charging points, while operators struggle with maintaining profitability. However, strategic thinking and innovative solutions can solve the economic puzzle of EV charging infrastructure.

The Cost Equation: Finding the Right Charge

Central to the issue is the question: How much should EV owners pay per charging session? Charging a 60 kWh EV battery costs between ₹4 to ₹10 per unit (kWh), depending on location and time. This cost competes well with fluctuating gasoline prices, but the overall equation is complex, involving energy costs, infrastructure investments, and consumer demand patterns.

Rohan Shravan, Founder and CEO of Tresa Motors, notes the significant investment required to set up a public charging station, estimated between ₹30 lakh and ₹50 lakh. This includes securing a commercial electricity connection and civil works. “As EV adoption accelerates, these costs are anticipated to decline,” he says.

Redefining Costs: EVs vs. Petrol

The debate between EVs and gasoline vehicles often revolves around cost per kilometer, with EVs having a clear advantage. Ashok Vashist of WTiCabs highlights the lower environmental impact of EVs, citing zero tailpipe emissions and reduced running costs due to cheaper electricity and lower maintenance needs. “The EV charging network is still developing, but rapid advancements and investments are closing the gap, making EVs more convenient for long-distance travel,” he explains.

In commercial and industrial EV fleets, the reliability of charging stations is crucial. High-quality infrastructure, rigorous maintenance, and smart energy management systems ensure seamless operations and economic viability, essential for the shift to sustainable transportation.

Aditya Singh Ratnu of Zevo asserts that EVs outperform internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in terms of environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings. “The widespread adoption of EVs hinges on robust charging infrastructure, advancements in battery technology, and supportive policies,” he adds.

High-Speed Charging: The DC Fast Charger Revolution

High-power DC fast chargers are transforming the EV charging landscape, offering an 80% charge in just 30 minutes for compatible vehicles. This alleviates “range anxiety” and enables longer journeys without the fear of running out of charge. However, deploying these chargers requires substantial investments in grid upgrades and balancing power demand and supply.

Ratnu notes, “While the upfront costs are significant, the long-term benefits and cost savings associated with reduced emissions and improved sustainability make these investments worthwhile. The costs for setting up infrastructure may seem high now, but they are a necessary one-time investment for a cleaner, more accessible, and cost-effective mobility ecosystem.”

The Future is Wireless: Effortless EV Charging

Wireless charging technology promises a future where charging an EV is as easy as parking. With efficiencies comparable to wired systems, this technology eliminates the need for physical connections, reducing cable wear and tear and enhancing the overall charging experience. Despite higher initial infrastructure costs and concerns about electromagnetic field exposure, the potential of wireless charging to transform the EV experience is undeniable.

Solar-Powered Charging: A Sustainable Solution

Deploying solar rooftop charging infrastructure is a strategic move towards energy independence and a greener future. “Solar-powered stations not only reduce the carbon footprint of EVs but also offer a path to profitability for charge point operators by offsetting energy costs and attracting environmentally conscious consumers,” says Shravan.

Collaborative Efforts: Key to Cracking the Code

Solving the economics of EV charging requires collaboration among automakers, energy providers, government agencies, and charge point operators. By fostering partnerships and leveraging shared expertise, stakeholders can address the factors influencing the profitability of charging stations, from optimizing energy management to streamlining infrastructure deployment.

Vashist highlights the significant upfront investment needed for EV charging infrastructure, including hardware, installation, and ongoing operational costs. “However, as EV adoption grows, the per-unit cost of infrastructure is expected to decrease due to economies of scale and technological advancements,” he adds.

Navigating the Future: Sustainable Mobility on the Horizon

As the automotive revolution progresses, the chosen path will shape the future of electric mobility. Cracking the economics of EV charging involves creating a sustainable, reliable, and profitable ecosystem that supports the electric dreams of tomorrow. Niranjan Nayak, Managing Director of Delta Electronics India, emphasizes the economic efficiency of transitioning to electric mobility, noting that EV charging costs around ₹1-2 per kilometer compared to ₹8-10 for petrol.

“The upfront investment in EV charging infrastructure is quickly offset by ongoing savings for consumers and businesses,” Nayak explains. “This transition aligns with our national goals of reducing carbon emissions and fostering a cleaner environment. At Delta Electronics India, we are committed to leading this change by providing innovative, reliable, and efficient EV charging solutions.”

As the world moves towards sustainable transportation, the future of EV charging infrastructure looks promising, with advancements in technology and strategic investments paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient mobility ecosystem.

Hyderabad, August 30, 02024…….His Excellency Sri K. Haribabu Hon’ble Governor of Mizoram, launched the Book “Shomie Das–The Man Who Saw Tomorrow” in a function held on Thursday late night function held at Oakridge School in Gachibowli. The protagonist Mr. Shomie Das was also present on the occasion.

Naga Tummala, Co-founder of Oakridge Intl School and Founder & CEO of Coschool authored the book.

Shomie Ranjan Das is an illustrious educationist on whom the book is written. He is 89 years old and is an alumnus of The Doon School. He served as the headmaster of the three top schools in India, namely The Doon School, Mayo College, and Lawrence School, Sanawar. He had earlier taught at Gordonstoun School in Scotland. He established the Oakridge International School in Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Mohali, and Bengaluru. He now lives in Hyderabad.

The book is written in his honour. After he retired from the Doon School, he became an educational consultant and has been contributing his vision in education to nearly 76 schools nationwide. Mr Das has been proudly inducted into the Hall of Fame of Indian Education, for his extraordinary contributions and development of India’s top-ranked legacy boarding schools and for upgrading the school education system across the country.

Speaking immediately after it was unveiled, His Excellency Sri K. Haribabu, Hon’ble Governor of Mizoram, praised Shomie for his exemplary contribution to Indian education. The life and career of Mr Shomie Das is indeed exemplary and worthy of recognition and celebration

His grandfather, the nationalist Mr Satish Ranjan Das, was the visionary for the establishment of the Doon School, he added We are proud to know that Mr Das had the opportunity to teach King Charles III, the current King of the United Kingdom, while he was a student at Gordonstown School in Scotland. Honourable K Harinabu added that Mr Das remained in contact with the royal family is showing his lasting impact.

As the leader of India’s top three schools, he has left a progressive impact by promoting holistic education and encouraging critical thinking and character development, he added,

Speaking further the honourable Governor highlighted the salient features of the National Education Policy(NEP), and said the policy seeks to utilise international education to reestablish India as a Vishwa Guru.

I am optimistic that if we vigorously pursue the salient features of the NEP 2020, we can bring about positive transformation, ultimately leading to a Viksit Bharat, he concluded his address Shomie Das’s 89th birthday was celebrated on the occasion by cutting the cake.

Mr Shomie Das hails from such an illustrious family, which is the only Indian family whose five generations have studied at Cambridge School. Speaking on the occasion the protagonist said the ship is safe in the harbour but that is not what it is built for. Similarly, the child is safe at home, but that is not what he/she is for. He/she must go out and venture into challenging things. Human souls always want to get out and discover. So, the job of schools is to prepare students to set sail in future.

Naga Thummala, the author said he never thought that he would write a book one day. And he shared the three-year journey behind the book. Somie is a doyen. He built 76 successful schools including Oakridge. His talent shouldn’t vanish after him. I want it to immortalise his journey, and experience. I was becoming restless. That was the driving force behind writing this book.

The forward of the book is written by Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Chancellor and Professor of History, at Ashok’s University.

The book is dedicated to all teachers and educators.

The hardbound 200-page book is published by Om Books International and is published by Pragathi Printers. It is available on website www. ombooks.com at $ 17.99

After the launch of the book, Naga Thummala and Shomie were in conversation which was facilitated by KV Arjun Rao, Principal, Bombay International School

Giving his opening remarks Raj Yarlagadda, one of the co-founders of Oakridge Group schools said writing a book was like giving a birth to a baby. Re recalled his long association with His Excellency K Haribabu.

Over 200 gatherings graced the occasion.

Mumbai, August 29: India’s luxury pre-owned market is set to grow at a rapid pace, said Almona Bhatia, Chief Business Development Officer, Tata CLiQ & Tata CLiQ Luxury, which had earlier this year launched this category across key brands of watches and handbags.

Luxury pre-owned market in India is worth USD 618 million in 2023 and expected to grow at the rate of 10% to USD 1556 million by 2032, said Bhatia speaking at the inaugural session of Day 2 of India D2C Summit held here.

In its pre-owned category in the luxury segment, Tata CLiQ has launched Rolex, Omega, Breitling, in the watches category and Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Fendi in the handbags category.

“Key categories include art, antique furniture, sneaker, fashion, jewelry and accessories like bags and watches,” she said adding that sustainability and circular fashion is a huge peg for most companies in these categories.

Pre-owned is a softer way of saying second-hand, but it also connotes that it has retained more of its value while conserving ecology and environment.

With household income of over INR 50 lakhs and INR 20-50 lakhs, Elite plus segment and Elite groups respectively in India have a healthy footprint across metro, tier 1 and tier 2/3 cities with top 20 cities accounting for around 60% of households, Bhatia said.

Of the addressable market of 10 million and 44 million users for Elite plus and Elite for Tata CLiQ Luxury, the primary market target is around 1 million households, she said.

“Currently we have penetrated 1.3% of this market, the goal is to scale sustainably & profitably,” she said.

With the number of affluent consumers in India set to rise from approximately 60 million in 2023 to 100 million by 2027, and one in three online shoppers coming from Gen Z category, India’s e-commerce business is set to grow thick and fast, according to industry experts at the conference

New Delhi, 29th August 24: Chief Justice of India inaugurates a state-of-the-art Branch of Bank of Maharashtra at Supreme Court of India.

Bank of Maharashtra today has marked a significant milestone in its journey towards innovation and excellence by launching its state-of-the-art branch functional within the premises of Supreme Court of India.

The Branch was inaugurated by Hon’ble Chief Justice of India Dr D Y Chandrachud in the presence of other Hon’ble Justices of the Supreme Court.

Secretary, Department of Financial Services Mr M. Nagaraju was also present. Commenting on the occasion, he expressed satisfaction on the initiative Bank has taken at the highest Court in India by introducing innovative ideas for serving the SCI clientele that includes Hon’ble Judges, the SCBA, SCORA and other constituents of Supreme Court.

The Bank sets in a new benchmark by bringing in a concept which is best in the world concept in branch designing.

The concept compares with the futuristic branches of Banks not just in India but across the globe.

MD & CEO of the Bank Nidhu Saxena speaking on the occasion said “We designed the Branch by benchmarking it with those of the best Banks across the world.

The Branch does not resemble a typical Bank branch, but rather it looks more like a mall with unique features on display like video walls within the Branch featuring the wilderness, beauty and magnificence of planet Earth, allowing visitors to have an immersive experience.

The Branch ambience is par excellence and is designed to give the clients an amazing convenience and a wow experience to those who visit.

Internet enabled interactive devices with multi-function kiosks help clients to do multifarious transactions without any assistance of Bank staff and are available 24X7.

In addition to the conventional lockers available to clients during the usual business hours, Branch is also adding Locker facilities that are available anytime and are operable just like an ATM, Saxena said”.

The Automated Lockers are imported from Germany and work with precision using a robotic technology and would provide clients the differentiator and reasons to Bank with us.

The Branch would provide a complete array of services to fulfill the entire financial needs of the SCI and its constituents.

Saxena went on to say that Bank has introduced two special initiatives for the benefit of the Bar members occupying Chambers within the Court and for the efficient management of activities of the SCI Registry.

For the Bar members, a Collection Management Module is provided wherein Advocates and Law Firms can pay their monthly dues towards the Chambers they occupy, at any time using the Payment gateway provided. Moreover, information on monthly dues, overdues due to delayed payment will be available online.

Further, a tech enabled solution is provided to the SCI that will eliminate the need for issuance of manual fixed deposit receipts. The solution offers a comprehensive dashboard for the Registry, allowing efficient management and instant access to regular MIS reports with a single click.

Chennai, 29 August 2024: Galaxy Surfactants, one of the leading manufacturers of performance surfactants and specialty care ingredients used in the Home and Personal Care industry, is excited to announce its participation in the Cosmetics Ingredients Expo, South India’s first trade show dedicated to cosmetics ingredients, raw materials, formulations for the home care, cosmetics, and personal care industries. The event will occur between August 30 -31, 2024, at the Chennai Trade Centre, Nandambakkam.

During the course of the event, Galaxy Surfactants will be connecting with new and existing customers to showcase its innovative solutions tailored for home and personal care formulations.

The company is also slated to unveil its latest innovations to the attendees, their new products offerings have been developed to address the growing demands of consumers for effective, safe, and sustainable solutions in the home and personal care sectors. The company representatives will be meeting their customers to share insights on customizable formulations, technical expertise, regulatory guidance, and a range of other services that will help customers develop evolved products.

In addition to the exhibition, Galaxy Surfactant’s home care team will participate in a technical seminar where they will present their newly launched fabric care ingredient. This ingredient is crafted to meet the evolving needs of consumers, offering a sustainable and safe solution for fabric care.

Mr. Yogesh Kalra, Vice President, Business Creation, Galaxy Surfactants, said, “With our commitment to customer delight, Galaxy participates in various trade shows across the world to meet our customers from various regions. Our participation in Cosmetic Ingredients Expo is evidence to our commitment and it will help us understand our customer’s pulse and offer innovative solutions for them to excel in their business. The specialty chemical market along with the home & personal care industry in India is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by rising consumer awareness and demand for innovative, sustainable products.”

National, 29th August, 2024– Ohmium International (“Ohmium”), a leading green hydrogen company that designs, manufactures and deploys advanced Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, has been selected a second time as a SIGHT Incentive Program award winner by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

Ohmium was awarded support for up to 137 MW of capacity for Tranche II of the SIGHT Incentive program, based on its’ electrolyzer performance and its’ contribution to the local economy. Ohmium was the only PEM electrolyzer manufacturer to receive this award.

“Our selection for this award demonstrates both the Ohmium team’s commitment to excellence as well as to decarbonization in India and across the globe,” said Arne Ballantine, Ohmium CEO.

This award is a continuation of Ohmium’s success in Tranche I of the SIGHT program. The tenders, implemented by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), are intended incentivize 1.5 GW of domestic electrolyzer manufacturing capacity in support of India’s sustainability goals.

“India has ambitious green hydrogen goals, and this program supports India’s evolution as a global Energy hub. These funds will accelerate the expansion of Ohmium’s Gigafactory in Bangalore as well as support future local manufacturing facilities” noted Ballantine.

“India’s refineries and ammonia plants are looking for decarbonization solutions. The combination of the SIGHT incentives and our hyper-modular PEM electrolyzer solutions – installed outdoors and vertically stackable for minimal land use and low cost – enable us to provide a compelling solution” Ballantine concluded.

Ohmium is the PEM electrolyzer leader in India, with partnerships with industry leaders such as NTPC and Tata Projects. The company has an active green hydrogen project pipeline of over 2 GW across four continents, serving a diverse range of customers across energy, transportation, steel production, and heavy industry.

New Delhi, 29th August 2024: MAI Labs is proud to announce the launch of KALP Studio, a revolutionary platform designed to democratize Blockchain and Web 3.0 development for developers of all experience levels. With the ability to build products on KALP DLT or even create entirely new chains, KALP Studio offers an unprecedented ecosystem

As a powerful platform, KALP Studio is a unique, all-in-one platform that offers a complete eco-system with pre-built DIY modules and robust infrastructure. It enables the fastest deployment of decentralized applications (dApps), adaptable to any industry or use case ripe for Blockchain disruption. Solutions built on KALP Studio are not only scalable and secure but also fully compliant, making them ideal for enterprise-grade innovations.

Mr. Mrityuanjaya Prajapati, Founder & CEO, KALP Studio, at the launch said, “By 2030, the Blockchain market is expected to cross $3.1 trillion, worldwide. The Blockchain industry still faces three major challenges in such a rapidly growing market. Firstly, there is a lack of availability of Blockchain experts to meet the expediting requirements. Secondly, the turnaround time within the market is too long. And thirdly, the overall cost of development is too high to adopt the advanced Blockchain technology.

“The vision to build KALP Studio to address these challenges and support the Global Blockchain developers’ community and businesses with a premium & wholesome infrastructure. Thus, the industry can leverage the full potential of the market with groundbreaking Blockchain & Web3 innovations.” Tapan Sangal, Founder of MAI Labs, highlighting some of the unique offering said, “KALP Studio is a revolutionary platform for the Blockchain industry. Being a chain-agnostic wholesome infrastructure with pre-built DIY modules, it can build disruptive industry solutions on Blockchain. It exponentially reduces costs and accelerate the project turnaround time. Overall, KALP Studio is an exclusive experience for developers with its advanced customization options and the best UI/UX.”

Considering the advance technology capabilities of the platform, KALP Studio is already selected as an exclusive platform for building Blockchain Projects, for “BUILD Hackathon”.

Noida, August 29, 2024: Trident Realty completed the registration process for 165 premium residential units of its project – Trident Embassy, Greater Noida (West) in a single day at its project premises located in Sector-1 of Greater Noida (West). This significant milestone is set to benefit homebuyers in Noida, providing them with the opportunity to secure their dream homes in one of the region’s most sought-after developments.

Strategically located, Trident Embassy offers excellent connectivity through the FNG expressway, Central Noida, and Pari Chowk, providing residents with easy access to key city attractions. The project spread over 7.5 acres approx. offers well-planned and well-crafted premium residential apartments designed to nurture aspirations and provide a tranquil living experience.

Mr. Parvinder Singh, CEO, Trident Realty, says – “We are thrilled to announce that 165 units of Trident Embassy, Noida have been registered during a camp organized under the supervision of Registrar and Sub-registrar, Dadri. The registration camp will not only benefit homebuyers but also contribute to the overall growth and development of Noida, as this activity has resulted in revenue generation of Rs. 6.32 Cr for the authority in a single day.

This move aligns with our commitment to delivering quality homes and providing our customers with the convenience and amenities they deserve” he said.

Trident Embassy – A premium residential development by Trident Realty, boasts of rich experience of on-time delivery and contemporary construction techniques. Spread over 7.5 acres, the project features well-designed green landscapes, a range of amenities like a swimming pool, club, gymnasium and other ultra-modern amenities.

Srinagar,29th August 2024:  ELFA International donated a Hysteroscope Unit to Lal Ded Hospital, Srinagar with financial support from NTT DATA, a global digital business and IT services leader. As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, NTT DATA partnered with ELFA International to support its mission of addressing the healthcare needs of people in Jammu and Kashmir.

A hysteroscopy is an essential instrument for performing minimally invasive procedures such as hysteroscopy. This procedure is crucial for diagnosing and treating intrauterine conditions, including abnormal bleeding, polyps, fibroids, and other uterine abnormalities. The availability of a hysteroscope will significantly enhance the hospital’s capability to provide high-quality care and improve patient outcomes.

The Hysteroscope Unit was handed over by the Chief Guest of the event Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah (IAS), Administrative Secretary Health and Medical Education and Mr. Nazim Zai Khan (IAS), Mission Director National Health Mission, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, other dignitaries presented at the occasion included Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Hakak (JKAS), Administrator GMC and associated hospital, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, Director Health Services, Kashmir, Dr Muzafer Jan, Medical Superintend LD Hospital, Mr. Mir Iftikhar Ahmad, Sr. Vice-President, ELFA International, Mr. Mehran Khan, CEO, ELFA International and senior team member of ELFA International.

Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah (IAS) congratulated the entire team on their accomplishment and said, “I thank ELFA International and NTT DATA for the donation of Hysteroscope Unit to the Lal Ded Hospital Srinagar, the entire Kashmir region will benefit from this service.” He added, “ELFA International has been doing a commendable job in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.”

Gauri Bahulkar, Sr. Director of Global Corporate Social Responsibility at NTT DATA, emphasized the company’s dedication to addressing healthcare disparities. “Enhancing healthcare access and infrastructure in underserved states across India is important to us. Our support for the great work that ELFA International has undertaken in upgrading Lal Ded Hospital is a small step towards a healthier, more equitable future. We also hope that more CSR funding will reach states like Jammu and Kashmir, where the need to improve healthcare infrastructure is urgent,” she said.

“We are delighted to join hands with a global leader like NTT DATA in our mission to improve the healthcare facilities across Jammu and Kashmir,” Mr. Mehran Khan, CEO, ELFA International added. “Proper access to healthcare is integral to the dignity of the individual and these ambulances will enhance our ability to provide it in these remote areas.”

New Delhi, 29 August 2024 – Centurion University, in collaboration with SRB Consultancy, successfully hosted the Eastern India launch of Power Within: The Leadership Legacy of Narendra Modi by Dr. R. Balasubramaniam. This event, held in Bhubaneswar, marked a significant milestone in the nationwide series of book launches.

The evening featured a distinguished assembly, including chief guest Senior Advocate Shri R. Venkataramani, Ld. Attorney-General for India, and Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, Member – HR, Capacity Building Commission, Government of India, and the author of the book. The theme, “Leadership through Indic Wisdom,” explored how traditional Indian ethos has influenced Prime Minister Modi’s 50-year public service journey.

Power Within offers a profound exploration of leadership, contrasting Western theories with Indian perspectives. The book reveals how Modi’s self-discovery and adherence to Indic wisdom have shaped his approach to governance and leadership, presenting a fresh, introspective take on leading with purpose and integrity in today’s world.

Prof Mukti Kanta Mishra, President of Centurion University, shared, “It has been an immense honour to witness the launch of Power Within: The Leadership Legacy of Narendra Modi in Eastern India. This book captures the essence of our Prime Minister, a man of a million missions, whose leadership is a true manifestation of the power from within. Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a ‘Skilled India’ has always resonated deeply with us at Centurion University, where we strive to empower communities and shape lives through education and skill development. Dr. Balasubramaniam’s work is not just a tribute but a guide for future leaders. I believe this book will inspire many and is an essential read for every Indian.

Speaking on Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, Shri Rajib Sekhar Sahoo, Eminent Chartered Accountant, remarked, “Visionary leaders are not afraid to take risks and try new things. Honourable PM Shri Narendra Modi is certainly a visionary leader and has never been afraid of taking risks, trying new things, and leading from the front in the reform process, whether in social, political, geographical, or economic changes. The last 10 years of his tenure as Prime Minister have seen some of the biggest reforms that the country has witnessed. The author in his book, Power Within, has explained in different chapters how Shri Narendra Modi has visualized a new India with all-round success, giving value to the ancient Indian Vedic theories, contrary to the illusory Western thought process.”

Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, Author of Power Within: The Leadership Legacy of Narendra Modi, said, “It is both humbling and gratifying to see the reception of Power Within here in Eastern India. This book is a reflection of my deep admiration for Prime Minister Modi’s unique leadership journey, which is rooted in the timeless wisdom of our civilization. My aim was to present not just the story of a leader but the story of leadership itself- ones that are deeply connected to our cultural ethos and the values that guide us as a nation. I hope that readers will find inspiration in these pages and see the potential within themselves to lead with integrity, purpose, and seva bhao.”

The panel discussion included insights from Senior Advocate Shri Pitambar Acharya, Ld. Advocate General for Odisha; Shri Swami Atmaprabhananda, Adhyaksha, Ramakrishna Math (Add Dr Sridhar, if no name); and Shri Rajib Sekhar Sahoo, Eminent Chartered Accountant. Moderated by Prof. Supriya Pattanayak, Vice-Chancellor, Centurion University, the discussion highlighted the relevance of Indic leadership principles in the global context.

The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, leaving attendees with a renewed understanding of leadership and its role in driving meaningful societal change. This collaboration between Centurion University and SRB Consultancy underscores the University’s commitment to promoting leadership that blends traditional wisdom with contemporary challenges.