Archives November 2024

Compass Group India expands skill development network with the launch of ‘Gurukool’ in Bengaluru

Bangalore, 22nd November 2024: Compass Group India, the fastest-growing food and facility management services provider, inaugurated its second onsite fully equipped skill centre, ‘Gurukool,’ in Bengaluru. This state-of-the-art facility marks an important addition to Compass Group’s growing network of skill development centres, bringing the total number across India to six. As a unified training hub, Gurukool provides a comprehensive solution for the training and development needs of both new hires and existing employees.

Commenting on the launch, Vikas Chawla, Managing Director of Compass Group India, said, “At Compass Group India, our people are our greatest asset, and investing in their growth and well-being is fundamental to our success. Gurukool is more than just a training centre—it is a platform for empowerment, where we are preparing our teams for excellence and also building a culture that values career progression, client-centric service, and operational innovation. As we continue to expand, initiatives like Gurukool enable us to cultivate a skilled and motivated workforce, leading to hospitality excellent and improving client satisfaction. A thriving workforce is central to Compass Group India’s growth while staying deeply aligned with our commitment to employee care.”

Gurukool also aims to hire employees from diverse backgrounds and train them in the ‘Compass Way’ before deploying them to client sites, thereby enhancing service quality, high employee retention, and operational excellence. Moreover, the comprehensive Career Acceleration Program at Gurukool enables employees to grow within the organisation and reach leadership positions such as unit managers and above. By equipping staff with the knowledge and competencies necessary to succeed, Gurukool contributes to a well-prepared workforce that can seamlessly meet the unique needs of each client.

The centre is equipped with dedicated resources like classrooms, a mock kitchen, cafés, and beverage spaces, providing a simulated environment for nurturing and developing talent. Over the next year, Gurukool aims to train more than 750 employees, covering over 40 training topics per week. These training programs will focus on areas like brand orientation, hospitality excellence training, F&B and Culinary roles, all delivered by the centre’s team of specialized trainers.

To ensure a smooth onboarding process, Gurukool will standardise and streamline the first 90 days of an employee’s journey through training passports. This approach will guarantee that only trained and assessed employees are deployed to client sites, resulting in enhanced consumer experience, engaged and motivated teams, and better retention.

Compass Group India plans to scale up the Gurukool model to its locations in Hyderabad and Gurgaon in the near future, further strengthening its commitment to developing a skilled and future-ready workforce.

The Fern Brentwood, Mussoorie appoints Gourab Biswas as HR Head

Mussoorie, 22 November 2024The Fern Brentwood Mussoorie, a leading eco-friendly hotel, announces the appointment of Mr. Gourab Biswas as its new head of Human Resources. With extensive expertise in people management and employee engagement, Gourab will lead efforts to strengthen the resort’s team and enhance guest experiences.

Gourab brings over a decade of experience in human resources, specialising in employee development and fostering inclusive work environments. His background across various sectors of the hospitality industry aligns with The Fern’s values of nurturing talent, promoting sustainability, and building a supportive workplace culture.

“I am excited to join The Fern Brentwood Mussoorie, a brand known for its responsible and people-focused hospitality. My goal is to cultivate a work environment where the team feels empowered to deliver memorable guest experiences, while fostering collaboration, growth, and sustainability,” Gourab said.

In his role, Gourab will focus on employee engagement, talent development, and recruitment strategies that support the resort’s eco-conscious hospitality approach. His appointment reflects the property’s commitment to building a motivated team that upholds its vision of sustainable and people-centric hospitality.

Mr. Arindam Bahel, General Manager of The Fern Brentwood Mussoorie, added, “We are looking forward to the positive impact Gourab will bring with his people-first approach and vast experience in human resources. His leadership will further strengthen our focus on guest satisfaction and team development.”

Synergy Marine Group Champions Onboard AI Agriculture for Healthier Crews and a Greener Future

New Delhi, 22 November 2024 — Synergy Marine Group is taking a further innovative step towards enhancing sustainability and crew wellbeing by growing fresh vegetables on board its vessels. As part of a pilot project, Synergy’s managed Suezmax tanker “EFFIE MAERSK” has been using Agwa’s cutting-edge AI-directed cultivation devices since September. These units, which are about the same size as standard refrigerators or wine coolers, allow the crew to enjoy freshly picked vegetables in the middle of the ocean.

Eli Feiglin, Chief Commercial Officer of Agwa, said “The Agwa grower units represent a major leap in onboard sustainability. The fully automated process allows crews to enjoy fresh greens and herbs without the need for special skills or substantial time commitment. The crew members on Synergy’s vessels have been thrilled with the result, and we are excited to see the positive impact this innovation is having on their wellbeing.”

The self-contained units use artificial intelligence, cameras and sensors to regulate environmental factors such as ultraviolet light, water, fertiliser and temperature. By maintaining optimal conditions for plant growth, the AI ensures that the vegetables grow efficiently and meet the needs of the crew. The system is designed to be entirely automated, so the crew need only to monitor the process and occasionally check on the plants’ progress.

Agwa’s CEO, Oren Saar, said “Working with Synergy on this transformative project marks an exciting milestone for Agwa. Synergy’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability and focus on crew welfare align seamlessly with Agwa’s vision. Synergy’s continued advocacy for meaningful change sets a powerful example and reflects the trust and shared ambition that we are building together. We are honoured to collaborate with Synergy to bring this innovation to life, enhancing onboard nutrition and sustainability. Together, we are paving the way for a greener, healthier future for seafarers and the maritime industry.”

From three Agwa units the “EFFIE MAERSK” has up to four bowls of absolutely fresh salad per week, along with herbs for seasoning. This not only provides nutritional benefits but also reduces waste and lessens the need for costly deliveries of fresh produce, which often suffers significant nutrient loss during long voyages.

“This initiative is close to my heart as a fellow seafarer. High-speed internet access and shorter tours of duty are vital for seafarer satisfaction, but I’ve also seen firsthand how important fresh, nutritious food is to morale and well-being onboard. Among today’s increasingly health-conscious mariners, we’re observing a noticeable shift toward healthier, plant-forward eating habits,” said Captain Rajesh Unni, Synergy’s founder and Chairman. “Agwa’s technology allows us to serve fresher, healthier food onboard, directly enhancing crew welfare. This innovation also reduces food waste and delivers real-time benefits for the crew, aligning with our shared commitment to a greener, more sustainable maritime industry.”

Expanding impact in India and beyond

Founded in 2006 by Captain Rajesh Unni, Synergy Marine Group is the world’s second-largest ship manager and the largest third-party manager of Indian-flagged vessels. Employing over 26,000 seafarers worldwide, 90% of whom are from India, the Group plans to increase this number by 5,000 by 2026 and to have at least 1,000 female seafarers by 2030. With an extensive presence in India, including offices in eight cities employing more than 2,000 shore-based personnel, Synergy complements its global operations across 15 maritime hubs, delivering unmatched depth and breadth of service to ship owners.

Last year, Synergy introduced tailor-made PPE for female seafarers, an industry-first initiative implemented across their 700+ managed vessels. This aligns with the company’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and ensuring the safety and comfort of all crew members. Read more about this initiative.

This initiative reflects Synergy Marine Group’s broader sustainability goals. The company aims to expand the use of Agwa’s grower units across its managed fleet, further helping to reduce the environmental impact of shipboard provisioning, including minimising plastic waste through reusable containers for fresh produce while improving the quality of life for its crew.

HP Ghosh Hospital Introduces Eastern India’s First Robotic-Assisted Spine Surgery

Kolkata, 22 November, 2024: HP Ghosh Hospital has marked a significant milestone in the field of healthcare with the successful launch of Eastern India’s first robotic-assisted spine surgery system. The landmark event, held at The Spring Club, Kolkata, showcased the pioneering Mazor-X Robotic System, the latest advancement in precision spine surgery. This event also highlighted the hospital’s ongoing commitment to bringing cutting-edge medical technology to the region.

The event featured a detailed demonstration of the robotic-assisted spine surgery system, a state-of-the-art technology designed to revolutionize spinal surgery by ensuring higher accuracy, improved patient outcomes, and faster recovery. HP Ghosh Hospital and The Spine Foundation’s expert team of medical professionals, including Dr. Saumyajit BasuMBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), FRCS (Edinburgh), DNB (Orthopaedics)Dr. Indrajit RoyMBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Neurosurgery)Dr. Trinanjan SarangiMBBS, MD (Anaesthesiology) along with Mr. Somnath BhattacharyaCEO of HP Ghosh Hospital, provided valuable insights into the system’s capabilities and its transformative potential for treating complex spinal disorders.

Speaking to the media, Dr. Saumyajit Basu, Director & Lead Spine Surgeon of The Spine Foundation and Mr. Somnath “BhattacharyaCEO of HP Ghosh Hospital said, The successful implementation of robotic-assisted spine surgery at HP Ghosh Hospital is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing the best in patient care. Today, we are not only introducing cutting-edge technology but also setting a new standard in spine care in Eastern India. The Mazor-X Robotic System allows us to perform surgeries with unparalleled precision, ensuring safer outcomes for patients, particularly in complex cases. This event marks a new era for spine surgery in our region, and we are proud to lead the way.”

The event also emphasized the hospital’s comprehensive approach to spine care, which integrates advanced diagnostic tools such as digital X-rays, 128-slice CT, Advanced MRI, and Electrophysiology, alongside the latest in robotic technology. With its 5 modular operating theatres, equipped with advanced microscopes, endoscope, navigation, high-speed drills, C-arm, O-arm, Robotic and Neuromonitoring, HP Ghosh Hospital stands at the forefront of spinal healthcare.

The hospital’s commitment to excellence was reflected in the discussions on the various spinal conditions treated from trauma, infections, degenerative diseases, deformities like scoliosis, and osteoporosis in the growing geriatric population. With a multidisciplinary approach, HP Ghosh Hospital aims to provide comprehensive, individualized care, ensuring that all sections of society in Eastern India have access to the best spine care solutions available.

Manappuram Group to Hire 5000 Employees Nationwide

Thrissur, 22 November 2024: Manappuram Group has announced over 5000 job openings for job seekers across the country. The openings are available under Manappuram Finance, Asirvad Microfinance and the company’s subsidiaries. Positions include Junior Assistant, Field Assistant, Operations Assistant, and Housekeeping roles. Candidates applying for Junior Assistant, Field Assistant, and Operations Assistant roles are required to have a degree, while a 10th-grade pass is sufficient for Housekeeping positions. The age limit for applicants is between 21 and 35 years.

In addition to these roles, the company is also seeking postgraduates in any specialization and professionals with qualifications such as CA, CMA, CS, LLB, MBA, and B.Tech for various positions in Audit, Credit Operations, Compliance, Secretarial, Business and other departments.

Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official website of Manappuram Finance. This recruitment initiative offers a significant opportunity for job seekers to join the leading financial services organization.

Manipal Hospitals successfully performs Eastern India’s first AI-powered injectable wireless pacemaker insertion

New Delhi, 22 November 2024: Marking a transformative milestone in cardiac care, Manipal Hospitals, one of the largest healthcare networks in India announced the successful insertion of an AI-driven, wireless injectable pacemaker. Developed by Abbott, their Aveir Leadless pacemaker entered the Indian market a few days back. Notably, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria has become the first center in Eastern India to perform the procedure. This life-saving device was recently inserted in a 65-year-old patient’s heart, making them the first in this region to receive the futuristic pacemaker. Already in use across the United States and Europe, the innovative pacemaker provides Indian patients with a safer and less invasive alternative to traditional pacemakers for managing heart rhythm disorders.

The event was attended by eminent cardiologists from Manipal Hospitals, including Dr. P.K. Hazra, Interventional Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria, Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Consultant Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria Dr. Soumya Kanti Dutta, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria, and Dr. Dilip Kumar, Director of the Cardiac Cath Lab & Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist & Electrophysiologist, Medica Superspecialty Hospital (An unit of Manipal Hospitals). These experts pointed to the increasing number of pacemaker insertion surgeries in India and how wireless pacemakers can be a better option for many. Mr. Rajesh Pareekh, Unit Head at Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, also attended the event emphasizing the hospital’s commitment to providing cutting-edge medical solutions.

According to the Journal of Cardiovascular Disease, nearly 40,000 people undergo pacemaker insertion surgery annually in India. The Aveir Leadless pacemaker only weighs 2.4 grams and uses nanotechnology to remain securely positioned within the heart. With a lifespan of 20-25 years, the device has a long life that’s almost three times longer than typical pacemakers (7-8 years) which reduces the need for pacemaker replacement. Besides, its non-magnetic design makes it immune to airport scanners, MRI machines, and high-voltage electrical currents ensuring that the patient’s day-to-day functionality remains uncompromised.

Dr. P.K. Hazra, Interventional Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria explained the significance of the new device, “While the pacemaker is not rechargeable, it has a unique advantage. It can be upgradable from a single to a dual-chamber configuration, offering a versatile and long-term solution for patients. It can efficiently separate and regulate the right atrium and the right ventricle of the heart. This pacemaker not only eliminates the need for invasive surgery and external wires but also features Bluetooth-enabled technology, allowing for remote monitoring and adjustments. Specialists from all over the world can now monitor their patients, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.”

Dr. Dilip Kumar, Director of the Cardiac Cath Lab & Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist & Electrophysiologist, Medica Superspecialty Hospital (An unit of Manipal Hospitals) stated, “Wireless pacemakers are now becoming a fully-fledged reality. While wireless pacemakers are not new, the previous models couldn’t pace both chambers—the atrium and the ventricles. This innovation excites us because it significantly reduces the risks of complications like hematoma formation, infections, lead dislodgement, and other lead-related issues. It offers unparalleled comfort for both doctors and patients.”

Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee, Consultant Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Dhakuria added, “This pacemaker opens new possibilities for patients who were previously deemed unsuitable for conventional pacemaker implants. Traditional pacemakers require invasive surgery to implant a device and wires (leads) into the chest, often leading to complications such as infections. The injectable wireless pacemaker, however, is injected directly into the heart’s right ventricle, eliminating the need for external wires and surgical pockets, which are the primary causes of infections in patients. This device is perfect for those with compromised immunity or conditions like skin issues, those on dialysis, or patients who are on blood thinners. The device’s minimally invasive nature also makes it ideal for elderly patients or young women concerned about scarring.”

India has become the third country in the world to embrace the USFDA and the European Medical Authority-approved injectable pacemaker signalling interest in improving cardiac healthcare in the country. Notably, the procedure can only be carried out by professionals who have received proper training and certification to ensure top-quality care. The introduction of this new wireless pacemaker in India provides patients with a permanent solution that can improve their quality of life and guarantee more effective cardiac care.

Digital Media & Entertainment meets Vikasit Bharat on Waves Prasar Bharati Launches Waves OTT at IFFI

New Delhi, 22 November, 2024: Prasar Bharati, the national public broadcaster launched Waves its OTT platform at the International Film Festival of India, Goa (IFFI).

Waves was launched by Dr. Pramod Sawant, Honourable Chief Minister, Goa. Speaking at the launch he said “It is indeed a momentous occasion for the Indian entertainment industry with the launch of Waves OTT. I am very happy to see the diverse range of content on the platform, including a host of films  and content across languages including Konkani.”.

Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, present at the launch said “Waves OTT marks a significant step in the Indian government’s Digital India vision. The Comprehensive, inclusive and diverse OTT will bridge the digital media and entertainment divide, on the back of its collaboration with BharatNet for last mile connectivity to rural audience.”

Waves makes its entry  as a wide-reaching aggregator OTT , with Inclusive India stories embracing Indian culture with an international outlook, in 12+ Languages – Hindi, English, Bengali, Marathi, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, Punjabi, Assamese, spread across 10+ genres of Infotainment; Video on demand, free-to-play gaming, Radio streaming, Live TV streaming, 65 live Channels, several App in App integrations  (LionsGate PTC, to name a few) for video and gaming content (Mud Games, Tag Labs, Freak X Games and Game Tech Point), educational content (like PACE bringing test prep tutorials for students) and online shopping through CSC-SPV’s ONDC supported e-commerce platform.

Chairman, Prasad Bharati, Shri Navneet Kumar Sehgal said “as part of our commitment towards healthy family entertainment and providing window for India’s rich and vast cultural landscape we are bringing one stop information hub to the millions of Indian homes. Waves is one of the only OTT networks which is your window to not only the world of clean family entertainment but also to shopping, games and news and current affairs for kids and youth. A bonanza for all.”

Under its notified Content Acquisition Policy 2024 for acquiring content for Waves OTT, Prasar Bharati has curated a strong content lineup to satisfy diverse tastes of subscribers in all age groups across urban, metros, middle India and NRI audiences who seek Indian / regional / International viewing experience.

Shri Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati, at the event said, “Waves, brings a wide range of  content for clean family viewing, into every Indian home that can use this platform to watch, listen, read, play, shop in a curated environment. As a conscious step to unlock the potential of young creators in the creative economy, Waves also offers its platform to content creators like the National Creator Awardees – Kamiya Jani, RJ Raunac, Shraddha Sharma of Your Story, Tech Guru Gaurav Chaudhary some of who are at IFFI.” Waves has opened its portal to student grad films, and film and media colleges like FTII, Annapurna, AAFT have partnered with Prasar Bharati on Waves.

New Films and shows on Waves to be screened at IFFI include Roll No.52 a student grad film from Annapurna Film and media Studio by Nagarjuna and Amala Akkineni aligning with the Young Film Maker’s theme of IFFI ‘24; Fauji 2.0 a modern adaptation of the iconic 1980s Shahrukh Khan show Fauji, and will be screened by Director Sandeep Singh and cast Gauhar Khan. The other films to be screened are Oscar winner Guneet Monga Kapoor’s social change film Kicking Balls a true story on child marriages and will screened by Guneet; Jackson Halt a crime thriller will be screened by Producer Neetu Chandra and Jaiye Aap Kahan Jayenge with a social message of mobile toilets screened by Sanjay Mishra.

Spotlight on Waves includes Live events like the Prabhu Shriram Lalla Aarti live from Ayodhya and the monthly Mann ki Baat by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The upcoming US Premier League Cricket Tournament will be carried live on WAVES from 22 November. WAVES has also launched a Cyber Security awareness campaign with Daily Video messages in partnership with CDAC, MeitY. This campaign is backed by programmes such as Cyber Crime ki Duniya (a fictionalized series) and Cyber Alert (by DD News features).

Some other films and shows on WAVES are Fantasy action super hero Monkey King the Hero is Back, the national award winner film Fouja, Armaan, Vipul Shah’s thriller show Bhed Bharam, family drama Thode Door Thode Paas featuring Pankaj Kapoor, Kailash Kher’s music reality show Bharat ka Amrit Kalash, Sarpanch, BeCubed by Hotmail Founder Sabeer Bhatia, women centric shows and films Corporate Sarpanch, Dashmi, and Kariathi, Jaanki. WAVES also carries a selection of popular animation programs including Doggy Adventure, Chota Bheem, Tenaliram, Akbar Birbal, and games like Krishna Jump, Fruit Chef, Ram the Yodha, Cricket Premier League tournament.

Expanding the repertoire of content formats, language, genre and reach on Waves are Live channels including Doordarshan, Akashvani, and private channels across multiple categories such as news, general entertainment, music, devotional, sports.

Central Government ministries and states are also joining hands with Prasar Bharati to co-develop or contribute varied content such as docudramas, dramatized or fictionalized shows, reality shows with entertainment value, as an effective vehicle for meaningful messages.

Some content includes a documentary on the 75th anniversary of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, cyber security awareness with CDAC MeitY, the NFDC archives titled Cinemas of India, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry’s rare archival content like historical photos compiled in subject-wise photos albums, and Journals and publicationsThe Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Finance, IGNCA, Ministry of Culture and India Post have also contributed informative and entertaining programming to WAVES.

The Digital Experience of Waves fuses Indian ethos with modern look and feel, friendly UI/UX, cross-Platform compatibility, personalized profiles and Curated Playlists. Waves is an OTT with a difference – it provides an e-commerce platform in collaboration with ONDC/ CSC-SPV that will promote MSMEs and local enterprises, fostering their growth and visibility.

21st International Foodtech Kolkata 2024 to showcase latest technologies and smart solutions in food sector

22th November, 2024, Kolkata: The 21st International Foodtech Kolkata 2024, Eastern India’s Premier business to business (B2B) Exhibition for food processing, bakery, mithai & namkeen, dairy, ice-cream and hospitality industry, will be held at the Biswa Bangla Milan Mela Complex in Kolkata from 29 November to 1st December, 2024, from 10 am to 6 pm.

Over 200 major foreign and Indian companies and leading brands from the food and hospitality sector would be participating at the three-day mega Exhibition supported by Hotel & Restaurant Association of Eastern India, West Bengal Bakery Association, All India Food Processors Association, West Bengal Bakers Coordination Committee, Paschimbanga Misti Udyog, Fragrances & Flavours Association of India, National Restaurant Association of India, Eastern India Culinary Association and others.

India’s food processing sector, one of the largest in the world, lies at the heart of the Government of India’s Make in India initiative. The food processing and hospitality industry in India is diverse and includes a wide range of products and innovations. The International Foodtech Kolkata 2024 Exhibition gains a lot of importance in the wake of global food crisis and food security emerging as a serious global concern. The Exhibition will showcase advanced food technologies and processes that cater to aspects of affordability, efficiency, resource management, smart solutions and loss of waste,” said Mr Zakir Hossain, Chief Convenor, 21st International Foodtech Kolkata, 2024.

A thriving food processing industry is crucial for addressing food and nutritional security in India. Processed foods offer several benefits, including convenience, extended shelf life, ease of transport to remote regions, and improved accessibility.

“The mega Exhibition will showcase the transformative potential of modern food processing machinery, a key factor in achieving an Atmanirbhar Bharat. It will bring under one roof the latest top notch food processing technologies, food manufacturing and packaging equipment, best processes and practices, finance etc. This year we have added two new domains, namely, the Dairy and Ice-Cream sectors and would simultaneously hold the `Dairy and Icecream Expo’. Kolkata Foodtech is one such exhibition where many FMCG companies, Hoteliers, Bakers, Dairy, Sweets and Snacks Manufacturers can source their annual requirements,” Mr Hossain said.

India, a food basket of the world, is emerging as a 21st Century food industry powerhouse. As per Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MOFPI) data, the Indian food processing sector is on a trajectory to reach an estimated market size of US $1,274 billion by 2027, up from US $866 billion in 2022, driven by increasing consumer demand, evolving lifestyles, and changing food habits.

The International Foodtech Kolkata 2024 would cover the entire gamut of food industry and allied services covering food & beverages, food processing machinery and equipment, food packaging, cold storage systems, waste management systems, bakery and confectionery equipment, ice cream making machines and plants, edible oils, spices, essences, colouring additives, industrial refrigeration, industrial kitchen equipment, glass and glassware, tableware, facilitators banks and financial institutions, pollution control and so on.

R City Mall Announces the Grand Wedding Fest 2024

Mumbai, November 22, 2024: As the wedding season unfolds, R City Mall, Ghatkopar’s premier lifestyle destination, is thrilled to announce its grand Wedding Fest 2024. Running from 15th November to 8th December 2024, this exciting celebration promises a spectacular experience for soon-to-be-wed couples and visitors alike.
The mall’s premises will be transformed into a dazzling haven, adorned to reflect the grandeur and joy of wedding festivities. From captivating decor to immersive experiences, every detail is designed to inspire and celebrate love. Shoppers can also enjoy an exciting 10% cashback on purchases exceeding ₹25,000, making wedding shopping even more rewarding. Adding to the excitement, three lucky participants will win exclusive prizes, adding extra sparkle to the season.
The fest extends beyond the physical space, with the highly anticipated online contest engaging audiences through R City Mall’s Instagram and Facebook handles, ensuring an all-encompassing celebration.
The contest is designed for couples getting married between 15th December 2024 and 21st March 2025. Couples can share their unique wedding journey on Instagram or Facebook, tagging @RCITYMall and using the hashtag RCityWeddingFest. The video with the highest engagement will win the ultimate prize:dream international honeymoon.
 
“At R City Mall, we aim to be more than a shopping destination; we strive to be part of our customers’ most special moments. Through the Wedding Fest, we’re creating a space where shoppers can celebrate love, indulge in delightful experiences, and make memories that last a lifetime,” said Rima Kirtikar, CMO, Runwal Realty.
Whether you’re shopping for wedding essentials, seeking inspiration for your big day, or simply soaking in the festivities, the Wedding Fest at R City Mall promises something for everyone. With rewards, giveaways, and the chance to win an international honeymoon, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.

Phi Commerce’s UPI Switch gets a go ahead from NPCI

MUMBAI 22 NOVEMBER 2024: Digital payments fintech Phi Commerce has received National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) certification to offer UPI Switch for its enterprise customers, primarily to sustain high transaction volumes. Considered as the next revolutionary innovation in the digital payments space, the UPI Switch enables fintechs like Phi Commerce to onboard enterprise customers instantly, reducing substantial turnaround time associated with the existing bank-driven process to induct new customers. This, in turn, benefits enterprise customers to offer a broad range of payment options to their customers almost instantly and thereby launch products and services at a faster pace than earlier.

UPI Switch feature supports all other features currently rolled out by the NPCI including UPI Auto Pay, recurring mandates, instant refunds, credit card linkages, and so on. This add-on product will also help enterprise customers to lower their operating costs as processing time reduces considerably, improving overall efficiency and better customer experience.

Built on a robust technology platform and seamless operations, Phi Commerce’s UPI Switch feature supports easy integration, offers on-premises or cloud-based architecture, comprehensive risk management tools, and 24/7 support and maintenance for uptime and reliability.

UPI Switch is widely regarded as a critical tool that will envisage the ambitious one billion transactions per day target set forth by NPCI in the next 3-5 years as part of its Digital India mission. UPI Switch distributes traffic across multiple servers, preventing system overloads and reducing processing times.

During peak times, when people rush to make payments, the UPI Switch helps by spreading the load across multiple servers. It’s like opening more checkout lanes at a grocery store during rush hour, making things move faster. This way, users experience quick, efficient transactions without delay,” said Rajesh Londhe, Co-founder and Head of Payments, Phi Commerce.

This feature also monitors if there’s anything unusual or suspicious transaction using real-time fraud monitoring algorithms. In terms of technology, the UPI switch is a sophisticated orchestration layer that handles billions of transactions with sub-second response times, powered by microservices architecture and high-performance databases. The UPI switch also supports API-based integrations, enabling seamless connectivity with various financial institutions and fintech platforms, and fostering an ecosystem of interconnected, interoperable digital payments across the country.