Archives November 2024

Hyderabad, 25 November 2024: RAP ECO Motors, a subsidiary of the renowned ARD Group with over two decades of expertise in automotive manufacturing, unveiled its groundbreaking L5 Segment Electric Three-Wheeler, E-RAJA, in passenger and cargo variants. Sri Uttam Kumar Reddy, the Hon’ble Minister for Irrigation, Food & Civil Supplies, Govt. of Telangana, officiated as the Chief Guest and unveiled the “Make in India” electric autos, today at Administrative Staff College of India (ASCI), Khairatabad, Hyderabad.

This initiative of RAP ECO Motors is supported by The Centre for Energy Studies at ASCI, which is working towards the scale up of Telangana Mobility Valley (TMV). Spearheaded by the Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Telangana, TMV is a visionary project aimed at revolutionizing the manufacturing and adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs). ASCI’s dedicated efforts align with TMV’s ambitious goals to attract investments across the EV value chain. Key focus areas include establishing state-of-the-art vehicle testing tracks, cutting-edge component testing labs, advanced product engineering and R&D units, and fostering innovation. The initiative also prioritizes the development of robust skilling programs, electrification of fleets, and strategic policy and regulatory frameworks to accelerate e-mobility adoption and infrastructure rollout.

The event was graced by Guest of Honour Sri. Rajkiran Bilolikar, Professor & Director, Centre for Energy Studies, ASCI; Mr. R. Balakrishnan, CEO, RAP ECO Motors, and envisaged by Mr. Amartya Awasthi, Asst. Professor, Centre for Energy Studies, Administrative Staff College of India. Supporting policies by the Government of Telangana, to attract investments in manufacturing of electric vehicles and related components, will help provide more jobs on one side and on the other, aid towards fleet electrification and clean mobility transition efforts, through availability of more EV models across both passenger and goods categories, says Prof. Rajkiran Bilolikar.

The state-of-the-art Electric Auto, E-RAJA was developed after an extensive R&D. The high-quality product with 100% make in India design and components, is competitively priced and backed by a robust service network across the country. The 3+1 seater E-RAJA can pace up to a maximum speed of 50 KM/H. The battery capacity of the vehicle is 8 KW / 150 AH and can be charged in 3 hours’ time. On a single charge the Auto can be used for 120 KMs to 140 KMs. The vehicle is available in 5 different colours in both the versions. The cargo version can be flexibly customised to any kind of pick-up van, for vending Ice Cream, Kulfi, Vegetables, meat products live cut and clean service, bakery products etc.

Speaking on the occasion Sri Uttam Kumar said, I am happy that Balakrishnan and RAP ECO Motors are introducing the much needed electric vehicles. Electric vehicles are the need of the hour for the state, the country and for the survival of mankind, especially we need to reduce the rampant pollution. While being a member of Parliament I was part of the Parliamentary Committee on Energy and one of the focus areas was promotion of electric vehicles in the country. That way I understand the challenges like lack of charging infrastructure, problems faced by EV manufacturers and actions needed to be undertaken by central and state governments. Be it Central or State government, we need to quickly facilitate the introduction of electric vehicles. See what is happening in Delhi now, the air quality there is below liveable conditions and the situation only gets aggravated in winter season, the whole day is covered with highly polluted smog. On behalf of Government of Telangana I would like to convey our keenness to push for electric vehicles, both electric autos and electric buses and we will extend wholesome support to the manufacturers of such vehicles. Our Government’s intention is to replace as many normal buses and normal autorickshaws with electric buses and electric autorickshaws, that’s one of the primary objectives of our government. We normally presume that pollution is a problem of the future generation and we the current generation need not worry about it and go about with it in a reckless manner. But now we are realising that it is on to us now, in our time, in our generation, our cities are gradually becoming unliveable and we need to urgently push for replacing conventional polluting vehicles with electric vehicles. In that context Balakrishnan of RAP ECO Motors has come up with a brilliant idea and I hope they succeed in the mission. We will do everything to support you on behalf of the Government. There is an urgent need to strengthen the charging infrastructure and that is what is limiting the consumers adopting electric vehicles. There are Central government schemes to strengthen the charging infrastructure. Come to us as an association and Government of Telangana will address the challenges your industry is facing. We will also request the Government of India to do their part. There is a need for continuous research and development as there are some teething problems with electric vehicles, some vehicles got bad name due to incidents of fire and battery replacement, but I am confident that we will find appropriate solutions to these challenges and make electric vehicles the preferred option.

The cutting-edge E-RAJA Electric Auto, a testament to innovation and extensive R&D, embodies the spirit of “Make in India.” The high-quality vehicle, crafted entirely with indigenous design and components, is competitively priced and supported by a robust nationwide service network. The 3+1 seater E-RAJA boasts a top speed of 50 km/h, powered by an 8 kW/150 Ah battery. With an impressive mileage of approximately 120 KMs per charge, it offers a practical and eco-friendly transportation solution. The battery charges fully in just 3 hours, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum efficiency.

Available in five vibrant colours, the E-RAJA caters to diverse customer needs in both passenger and cargo versions. The cargo model stands out for its versatility, offering customizable options for various applications such as ice cream and kulfi vending, vegetable and meat vending with live cut-and-clean service, and bakery product delivery. Its adaptability makes it the perfect partner for businesses seeking sustainable and innovative logistics solutions.

RAP ECO Motors operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Cherlapally, Hyderabad, under the aegis of the esteemed ARD Group. With a production capacity exceeding 500 electric autos per month, the facility serves as a hub of innovation and precision engineering. For the past five years, this advanced unit has been producing the highly successful L3 Segment Electric Auto, RANIE, available in both passenger and cargo versions. Building on its proven expertise, the facility recently expanded its capabilities to introduce the cutting-edge L5 Segment Electric Auto, E-RAJA.

This milestone of unveiling E-RAJA underscores RAP ECO Motors’ commitment to sustainability and innovation, bolstering India’s EV ecosystem while promoting indigenous manufacturing excellence. The E-RAJA is set to redefine India’s EV landscape, while delivering performance, style, and sustainability in one dynamic package; says Mr. R. Balakrishnan.

While the E-RANIE, (L3 version) of the Auto is fully certified by ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) the E-RAJA (L5 version) has its certification from NATRAX (National Automotive Test Tracks), ensuring both the models meet the highest standards of safety and performance. As an electric vehicle, it enjoys a significant operational advantage, as it does not require formal permit to operate on roads, unlike the traditional IC engine autos. In the current regulatory landscape, many states have imposed stringent restrictions on new registrations for petrol and diesel autos, allowing them only if an existing vehicle is scrapped. E-RAJA bypasses these limitations, offering a hassle-free and eco-friendly solution for operators, while contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable urban environment.

A standout feature introduced by RAP ECO Motors to enhance customer convenience is its innovative battery swapping facility. Through strategic partnerships with leading battery manufacturing companies, RAP ECO Motors ensures that fully charged batteries are readily available across a wide dealer network nationwide. This seamless swapping solution allows customers to replace depleted batteries with fully charged ones in minutes, at a nominal fee, thus reducing the investment by almost about 50% of the total cost of the E-Raja (L5) Autos.

This game-changing initiative of battery swapping underscores RAP ECO Motors’ commitment to affordability, efficiency, and sustainability in the EV sector, adds Mr. R. Balakrishnan.

The E-RAJA Electric Auto stands out as an exceptionally cost-effective solution for modern transportation, with per-kilometre running costs that redefine operational efficiency. At just 10% of the running cost of petrol and diesel autos, and significantly lower than LPG and CNG counterparts, the E-RAJA offers unmatched savings for operators.

Urging graduates to utilise their knowledge for societal benefit, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, said,”On this auspicious occasion, I would like to congratulate all the graduating students and extend my best wishes for your future. You have all worked hard to realise the dreams of both yourselves and your parents, and you are the students who will change India in 2047. We are all in the Amrit Kaal of Bharat, and these fortunate individuals have studied at one of the most prestigious universities of our time. I applaud the 30 years of educational efforts made by GD Goenka Group for the country.’’

 Congratulating the students, Gen VK Singh, said,’’Over the past 12 years, GD Goenka University has made tremendous progress, and I want to congratulate all the graduating students. Education provides you with three essential things: knowledge and skills, discretion, and the ability to guide others. After you leave the institution, you must rely on what you have learned and the foundation you have built. If your foundation is strong, you will be able to navigate through challenges successfully.’’

 

“Today marks a substantial milestone in the lives of our students. Their hard work and dedication have culminated in this moment of achievement. As they step into the professional world, I am confident they will uphold the values and excellence that GD Goenka University stands for,” said Mr. Nipun Goenka, Managing Director of GD Goenka Group.

”I am deeply humbled to receive this honorary doctorate from GD Goenka University, a prestigious institution known for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. India has a history spanning over 5,000 years that cannot be replicated, which highlights the country’s tourism potential. Indeed, within India’s past lies its future,’’ said Shri Nakul Anand.

 ”This year, GD Goenka Group proudly celebrates its 30th year in education, marking three decades of innovation, excellence, and commitment to shaping future leaders. It is a moment of immense pride to witness yet another cohort of graduates stepping out into the world, carrying forward the legacy of their alma mater,’’ said Prof. (Dr.) Kim Menezes.

25th November 2024 – Surya Roshni partnered with ELCOMA (an industry association for the Lighting Industry) for the prestigious conference themed “Lighting the Future, Light of the Future.” This landmark event addressed the evolving challenges and opportunities within the lighting industry, emphasizing the transformative power of sustainable and energy-efficient lighting solutions.

The conference, a departure from traditional formats, adopted a holistic approach by engaging diverse stakeholders, including lighting professionals, designers, regulators, architects, consultants, policymakers, and end-users. It provided a platform to exchange ideas and drive innovation across the ecosystem.

Jitendra Agrawal, CEO- Lighting & Consumer Durable Business, Surya Roshni, stated, “The lighting industry is at a pivotal juncture where technological disruptions are redefining the future. This conference was a timely opportunity to align our efforts toward sustainability, energy efficiency, and innovation. Surya Roshni remained committed to leading this transformation and nurturing a brighter, greener future.”

The conference featured sessions tailored for key audiences, including public infrastructure stakeholders such as state PWD officials, CPWD representatives, consultants, and contractors. Attendees gained insights into cutting-edge LED solutions that enhanced energy efficiency, user experience, and operational feedback mechanisms, contributing to environmental conservation and cost-effectiveness.

Amal Sengupta, Secretary General, ELCOMA, remarked, “With the evolving technological landscape, stakeholders across the lighting ecosystem needed to come together, exchange ideas, and shape the future of lighting that is both efficient and sustainable.”

Vishal Mahendru, Senior General Manager of Marketing, Surya Roshni Ltd, commented, “This collaboration with ELCOMA highlighted Surya Roshni’s dedication to redefining the lighting industry’s future. By addressing key challenges and leveraging innovative solutions, we reaffirmed our mission of promoting sustainable development and energy-efficient lighting for generations to come.”

Surya Roshni reaffirmed its dedication to spearheading progress in the lighting industry, ensuring it remained a cornerstone of sustainable development. This partnership with ELCOMA underscored Surya’s vision of shaping the future of lighting in India and beyond.

New Delhi – November 25, 2024 – Genpact (NYSE: G), a global professional services and solutions firm delivering outcomes that shape the future, today announced the extension of its partnership with Ferring Pharmaceuticals, a research-driven biopharmaceutical company that has operating subsidiaries in more than 50 countries and markets its medicines in over 100 countries. The renewed multi-year agreement will continue the transformation of Ferring’s finance, accounting, and procurement operations with advanced technologies, including AI.

“To drive growth in a complex and competitive environment, pharmaceutical companies need modern, scalable and efficient solutions,” said Sanjiv Tandon, Global Head of Life Sciences and Healthcare, Genpact. “Our ongoing partnership with Ferring Pharmaceuticals leverages our industry expertise and a shared vision to harness advanced technologies, setting a new standard for innovation and enabling Ferring to meet evolving demands with speed and accuracy.”

Under the agreement, Genpact will continue to streamline workflows, optimize resource allocation, and improve the accuracy and speed of financial transactions. In collaboration with technology partners like Xelix and Blackline, Genpact will automate key processes, such as invoice management and procurement workflows, while establishing robust data analytics capabilities for real-time financial insights. These enhancements aim to deliver significant operational savings and enable Ferring to adapt swiftly to evolving customer and patient needs.

“Our partnership with Genpact spans over 40 digital transformation projects, with a strong focus on AI applications,” said Dominic Moorhead, Chief Financial Officer, Ferring Pharmaceuticals. “By standardizing processes and leveraging advanced technologies, like AI, we’re enhancing accuracy, real-time insights, and overall efficiency to support our purpose of building families and helping people live better lives.”

This collaboration underscores Ferring Pharmaceuticals’ commitment to innovation, enabling the company to thrive and deliver its range of innovative treatments to change the lives of people and families around the world.

25th Nov 2024: The Stanford Seed Transformation Network will be organizing the 3-day South Asia Annual Conclave 2024 in Goa from 28th to 30th November. This year’s conclave promises to be an inspiring gathering of entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and innovators from across South Asia aimed at fostering collaboration and driving business growth in the region. The conclave will be joined by eminent speakers like Rohit Kapoor, CEO, Swiggy – Food marketplace; Aparna Popat, Double Olympian and 16-time National Badminton Champion; Darius Teter, Executive Director, Stanford Seed; Dr. Rohini Rau, Gold medalist at the Asian Sailing Championship; Satyarup Siddhanta, Guinness World Record-holding Mountaineer amongst many others.

The South Asia Conclave is a powerful gathering of ambitious minds and innovative ideas,” said Abhishek Modi, President of the Stanford Seed Transformation Network (South Asia) and Managing Partner, Shiva Engineering. “This event is more than just an opportunity to connect—it’s a catalyst for deep learning from experts, peer-to-peer insights, and the chance to rethink and reset. This year the conclave’s theme is ACT, and our sessions are curated to enable entrepreneurs to Adapt, Connect, and Thrive (ACT).”

Mr. Modi continued, “Through the Stanford Seed Transformation Program, a strategic initiative of Stanford Graduate School of Business, we’re committed to helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses through hands-on training, lifelong mentorship, and a global network of peers. The conclave, along with other initiatives of the network, aims to support graduates of this program by providing continuous opportunities for learning, business enablement, and mentorship.”

The 10-month Stanford Seed program is a high-touch program for CEOs & Founders of SMEs in South Asia and is taught & delivered by Stanford Graduate School of Business faculty. Initiated in India in 2017 following its initial presence in Africa, the program has now expanded across South Asia with over 370+ Entrepreneurs in the network in the South Asia Chapter and 1100+ globally.

Harish Arnezath, Regional Director of Stanford Seed (South Asia), “The Stanford Seed program aims to end the cycle of global poverty by helping entrepreneurs build thriving businesses that create jobs and drive economic growth.” Focused on emerging markets, the program provides participants access to world-class resources, including learning materials from Stanford faculty, a global network of business leaders, and a tailored curriculum that addresses specific business challenges. The South Asia chapter has now expanded to four countries and over 370 entrepreneurs who boast a collective revenue of $950 million and employ more than 60,000 people.

Harish Arnezath, Regional Director of Stanford Seed (South Asia), further added, “We are committed to empowering small and medium businesses in South Asia to scale up and reach their full potential. This Conclave provides an excellent platform for our entrepreneurs to engage in peer learning, exchange ideas, and gain actionable insights to drive their growth and resilience in an ever-changing business environment.”

Participants in the Stanford Seed program benefit from a unique curriculum that combines academic rigour with practical application. The program emphasizes real-world learning and encourages participants to develop actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately within their businesses.

The Stanford Seed program has been a transformative experience for me as an entrepreneur. The enriching course material, paired with in-company workshops, ensures that the insights are not just personal but drive meaningful growth across the entire leadership team, fostering alignment and collective progress. The business transformation advisors challenge you to think deeply and strategically at every step, while the incredible network has given me lifelong friends and collaborators. I cannot recommend this program enough to anyone serious about scaling their business with impact and purpose”, says Rashi Narang, Founder, Heads Up for Tails, Stanford Seed Program Alumni.

The Stanford Seed Transformation Network, South Asia invites aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for the Stanford Seed Transformation Program (STP). This is an opportunity to join a vibrant community dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across South Asia. Interested individuals can learn more about the program and apply at the Stanford Seed Program.

For more information on eligibility criteria and about the program, log on to: https://www.gsbseed.stanford.edu/stp-south-asia

About Stanford Seed Program: The Seed Transformation Program is designed specifically for business owners and your senior management team, this in-person and online program is led by Stanford Graduate School of Business faculty, and local experts, and supported by Stanford-trained advisors. You’ll participate in both face-to-face and remote class sessions and workshops to gain the strategic skills, methods, and mindsets to transform yourself, your team, your business, and your community.

The ultimate goal is to create and activate a detailed action plan to help you grow your company.

Mumbai, 25th November, 2024 — Ice Cream Works, a beloved name in the world of artisanal ice cream, has unveiled an exciting new collection of flavors, reflecting its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. This release features three distinct ranges—Classic, Premium, and Luxury—designed to cater to diverse tastes and elevate the experience of indulgence.

The Classic range brings timeless favorites to life with flavors like Banana and Strawberry Chocolate Chip, evoking nostalgia while offering the rich, creamy textures Ice Cream Works is known for. The Premium range takes a sophisticated approach with World Class Strawberry, Real Guava, Oreo Cookies and Cream, Biscoff Caramel, Cookie Dough Chocolate Chip, Belgian Chocolate, and Nutella Chocolate Brownie, each crafted to deliver vibrant and indulgent taste experiences. Meanwhile, the Luxury range redefines decadence with Crispy Coffee, Sea Salt Caramel Fudge, Three Berries, Dark as Sin Chocolate, and Hazelnut Almond Brittle, showcasing the brand’s dedication to creating memorable moments with every scoop.

Founder and CEO Alisha Shah Chona remarked, “Our new range of flavors represents the essence of Ice Cream Works—exceptional quality and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences. Each flavor is designed to bring joy and foster connections, making every moment special.”

This launch underscores Ice Cream Works’ mission to innovate and delight customers with artisanal ice cream crafted from the finest ingredients. The new flavors are now available at all Ice Cream Works outlets and through the brand’s online ordering platform, inviting customers to savor the artistry behind each creation.

Delhi/ Mumbai, November 25, 2024: upGrad Enterprise – the corporate skilling and workforce development division of online skilling giant upGrad, has unveiled an extensive study titled ‘The GenAI Gap: GenZ & the Modern Workplace’. This study explores how GenZ professionals are adopting Generative AI (GenAI) in the workplace and the implications for organizations.

Based on insights from over 3,500 GenZ professionals across diverse backgrounds and more than 1,000 HR leaders, the report examines GenZ’s usage patterns, attitudes, and expectations surrounding GenAI. It also highlights the role of organizations in cultivating a GenAI-friendly mindset among their workforces.

The findings reveal that GenZ professionals are optimistic and forward-thinking when it comes to GenAI. 1 in 2 GenZs believe that GenAI will play a supportive, if not central role in their careers over the next 5 years. Adoption rates are high, with 73% of GenZ already integrating GenAI into their daily tasks with 72% relying on GenAI-produced outputs with minimal edits—clear evidence that this generation sees GenAI as an integral part of their daily workflows. Interestingly, GenZ demonstrates greater environmental consciousness, being three times more concerned about GenAI’s ecological impact compared to organizations.

Some of the other key findings include:

• Despite some concerns over job security – 65% of GenZ respondents reported feeling neutral to optimistic about GenAI, while 77% see the technology as a harbinger of new professional possibilities.
• Interestingly, 56% of Gen Z respondents prefer consulting GenAI over their managers, due to its constant accessibility and perceived impartiality.
• 54% of Gen Z respondents believe their current organisational guidelines on GenAI are inadequate, revealing a need for companies to establish clearer AI policies and comprehensive
• 52% of GenZ respondents acknowledge a lack of clarity around their workplace GenAI training programs, with some highlighting that updates are rare or nonexistent—emphasizing the widespread inaccessibility of upskilling opportunities in today’s workplaces.
• Only 21% of HR professionals feel comfortable relying on GenAI for regulatory training, highlighting the need for compliance-focused resources.

Commenting on the trends and the need to draw such a report, Srikanth Iyengar, CEO of upGrad Enterprise, said, “Years of close collaboration with global organisations and GCCs have given us unique insights into the opportunities and challenges faced by professionals and even companies who are planning their growth strategies. Therefore, we have leveraged our expertise to design this report, offering an in-depth look into the current landscape – highlighting not only how GenZ is embracing AI but also the urgent need for organizations to establish supportive policies and implement targeted training. upGrad Enterprise is committed to equipping the corporate ecosystem globally with real skills and tool capabilities that will add real value to both their careers and business success in an AI-powered world.”

The report arrives after upGrad Enterprise released its extensive take on realities and concerns of Sales professionals, further revealing some stark findings highlighting the skills gap. The current edition adds another dimension, bringing a new group of professionals to the forefront and reflecting India’s growing adaptability to AI, alongside the broader aspirations of GenZ professionals who view GenAI as a pathway to innovative and efficient workflows.

Mumbai 25, November 2024: TreadBinary, a leading technology and consulting company, partnered with Rotary Club Mumbai to organize a blood donation drive at the Puranic Capitol premises in Thane. This collaborative effort aimed to address the critical need for blood in hospitals while promoting a sense of community service and social responsibility.

The drive saw an impressive turnout, with 43 individuals stepping forward to donate blood. A total of 43 units of blood were collected during the camp, surpassing expectations. These donations will be distributed to multiple hospitals, providing life-saving support to patients in urgent need. For access to donated blood, individuals can reach out to Kai. Wamanrao Oka Blood Center.

Darshil Shah, Founder and Director, TreadBinary, said, “Blood donation is more than a charitable act—it is an expression of humanity’s ability to care, to share, and to give hope where it is most needed. Each unit of blood donated represents a lifeline, a chance for someone to fight another day, and a promise that no one stands alone in their time of need. By coming together as a community to support this cause, we not only save lives but also reaffirm our collective strength, compassion, and responsibility to build a world where hope and healing are always within reach.”

Yuvraj Shidhaye, President of Rotary Club Thane Creek, added, “The blood donation camp was conducted with the utmost care by a team of skilled medical professionals, ensuring a smooth and safe process for every donor. Together, we hope to inspire more individuals to join this life-saving cause.”

Encouraged by the success of the event, TreadBinary and Rotary Club Mumbai plan to organize similar blood donation camps frequently. Future campaigns will focus on educating the community about the critical importance of regular blood donation and expanding the pool of active donors.

GURUGRAM, India –25 November 2024 : Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the launch of its Music Frame WICKED Edition created in collaboration with Universal Pictures. Celebrating the cinematic adaptation of the iconic musical Wicked (in cinemas on November 22), this exclusive wireless speaker combines art and audio to elevate home entertainment. Available on Samsung.com from November 24 at a price of ₹23,990, the WICKED Edition is designed for a truly immersive experience for music lovers, Wicked fans, and art enthusiasts alike.

The Samsung Music Frame introduces a new category of customizable audio solutions, doubling as a photo frame with a powerful speaker designed to blend into any space while delivering an immersive audio experience. The special WICKED Edition includes a Wicked-themed bezel in white colour, a photo mat, and three exclusive Wicked photo cards. The product also comes in a customized package with Wicked branding, creating a unique unboxing experience for fans.

With its Dolby Atmos technology and Q-Symphony compatibility, the Music Frame transforms any room into a surround-sound space, delivering rich, multidimensional audio that captures every detail. Its two-channel 120W sound with SpaceFit Sound Pro optimizes sound based on room acoustics, while Adaptive Sound enhances audio based on content. Users can enjoy seamless integration with smart home systems through Alexa and Chromecast and easy connectivity across devices with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Optical, AirPlay, and Tap Sound.

Mr. Mayank Jain, Director at VIVA ACP, expressed his enthusiasm for participating in FOAID, saying, “FOAID provides an incredible platform for the architectural community to explore innovative solutions. At VIVA, we are driven by the vision of empowering creativity through design and technology. Our participation reinforces our commitment to fostering collaboration and bringing architectural visions to life.”