Archives November 2024

Kochi, November 22, 2024: Aster Medcity, in collaboration with Aster Volunteers, the global CSR arm of Aster DM Healthcare launched a free HbA1c test campaign aimed at supporting the elderly population. The campaign was inaugurated by Honourable Aluva MLA Anwar Sadat at the Aluva Welfare Association Trust as part of World Diabetes Day celebrations.

The initiative will provide free check-ups to various elderly care centres across Ernakulam district, providing crucial diabetes screening for 500 senior citizens.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by Aster Volunteers, driven by the Aster DM Foundation, to touch lives through healthcare, education, social empowerment, environmental sustainability, and disaster relief activities. To date, Aster Volunteers has impacted over 5 million lives globally, with this campaign being another testament to its impactful presence.

Latheef Kasim, Assistant General Manager of Aster DM Foundation, Dr. Mansoor Hassan, Chairman of Welfare Association Trust and others attended the event.

Photo Caption: Aluva MLA Anwar Sadat undergoes the first test in the free HbA1c test campaign organized by Aster Medcity and Aster Volunteers at Aluva Welfare Association Trust as part of World Diabetes Day.

New Delhi, November 22, 2024 – Sigdi, a chain of authentic non-vegetarian Fine dining restaurants based out of Gujarat known for its authentic Indian Tandoori, Mughlai, and other regional flavors, announces the opening of two new outlets in Anand, Gujarat, and Mira Road, Maharashtra. With these new locations, Sigdi continues to expand its footprint in India, bringing its unique culinary experience closer to more food enthusiasts.

Located at NH-8, Opposite Moti Shak Market, Shamarkha Chokdi, Anand, Gujarat 388001, the Anand outlet promises to offer locals a taste of Sigdi’s signature dishes, characterized by rich flavors, premium ingredients, and traditional recipes. In Mira Road, the new restaurant can be found at Laxmi Park, SHOP NO.8, Oswal Point, A wing, Kanakia Rd, opposite Park View Hotel, Mira Road East, Mira Bhayandar, Maharashtra 401107, providing a cozy, inviting ambiance for customers to enjoy Sigdi’s acclaimed menu.

Mr. Sohel Memon, Founder and Managing Director, Sigdi, shared his excitement for this expansion, saying, “We are excited to bring the true taste of Indian Tandoori and Mughlai delicacies to Anand and Mira Road. Our mission has always been to create an extraordinary dining experience that honors India’s culinary heritage, and with these new outlets, we believe that food has a unique power to bring people together, and it’s our passion to serve our guests an experience that reflects this bond. From the ambiance to the flavors on the plate, we put our heart into every detail. We are excited for Anand and Mira Road residents to experience the quality, authenticity, and warmth that defines Sigdi, and we look forward to expanding this culinary journey to even more cities in the near future.”

Founded with a vision to preserve and showcase authentic Indian non-vegetarian cuisine, Sigdi has become a preferred choice for those seeking traditional flavors coupled with exceptional service. Each dish at Sigdi is meticulously crafted with high-quality meats, handpicked spices, and classic cooking techniques, ensuring a delightful experience for all.

Sigdi has already established a strong presence across 25 branches in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Muscat, building a reputation for its high-quality, flavorful non-vegetarian dishes. The company’s expansion plan is part of its broader mission to become a household name in the Indian and international food scene, with over 100 branches planned in the near future.

Gurgaon City, Haryana, India – November 22, 2024 – VietravelGroup has officially inaugurated Viet Travel India, marking a key milestone in the company‘s strategy to strengthen the connection between Vietnam and India. This move aims to enhance cooperation and offer unique travel experiences to tourists from both countries.

Viet Travel India is located at Urban Square Building (Rooms A-501 & A-502, 5th Floor), Golf Course Extension Road, Sector 62, in the heart of Gurgaon, Haryana, India. This event is of significant importance in realizing Vietravel’s mission to “Create Value for Life” in the coming years.

In recent years, India has emerged as a promising market, with a growing number of people increasingly interested in travel and exhibiting strong growth in tourism demand. The launch of Viet Travel India is not only part of Vietravel‘s international market expansion strategy but also reflects the company‘s desire to build deeper relationships with partners and potential customers in India. Through Viet Travel India, Vietravel aims to provide a wide range of high-quality travel services, from leisure travel, cultural and natural exploration, to MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tours and wellness tourism.

Mr. Tran Doan The Duy, Vice Chairman of Vietravel Group’s Board of Directors, stated: “The presence of Viet Travel India is an important step forward in promoting tourism programs that connect Vietnam and India. We hope to create unique, differentiated experiences for Indian travelers, allowing them not only to explore Vietnam’s natural beauty and rich culture but also to understand the strong friendship between our two countries.”

Viet Travel India will focus on offering specialized travel services tailored to the Indian market. Key products include tours to iconic Vietnamese destinations such as Ha Long Bay, the ancient capital of Hue, and the historic town of Hoi An, as well as cultural and spiritual tourism products that cater to the diverse needs of Indian travelers. The company will also serve as a central hub for providing information, consultation, and support throughout the travel process, ensuring Indian tourists have a smooth and enriching journey. Additionally, Viet Travel India will collaborate with reputable partners in India to develop combined tour packages that cater to both outbound tourism (to international destinations) and inbound tourism (to Vietnam).

2024 also marks the conclusion of Vietravel’s 10-year “Pioneer Journey” and the beginning of a new era with the mission “Creating Value for Life.” This mission focuses on environmental protection and sustainable tourism development, providing human-centered travel experiences. The launch of Viet Travel India is an important part of the company’s strategic business direction. To align with its vision of being a green business, a digital business, and a connected business, Viet Travel India will actively promote eco-friendly travel products and develop a sustainable tourism economy model, ensuring safe experiences while raising environmental awareness among travelers.

With 30 years of experience in the tourism industry and a wide network of partners, Vietravel has become the top choice for both domestic and international tourists. The company has expanded its operations into many international markets, and the opening of its office in India is a testament to Vietravel‘s strategic vision and commitment to enhancing the Vietnamese brand globally.

Through the launch of Viet Travel India, Vietravel aims not only to expand its operational reach but also to introduce fresh value, promoting cultural, economic, and tourism cooperation between Vietnam and India. This is an important step in Vietravel’s sustainable development strategy, building a strong foundation for international cooperation and helping spread the image of friendly and welcoming Vietnamese tourism to the world.

“That is the nightmare of every single parent out there,” said Callahan Walsh, a child advocate and executive director for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). For any parent, just thinking about losing a child in a busy crowd can feel like the worst nightmare. The heart-wrenching fear, the frantic search, and the overwhelming sense of helplessness are emotions no one should ever have to endure. Children are the very essence of a parent’s world; their safety and well-being form the core of countless hopes and dreams. Still, in places like shopping malls, crowded fairs, and vibrant public events, the unimaginable can happen: a child may go missing.

However, this scary situation is changing thanks to facial recognition technology. This advanced tool is becoming a vital source of hope for reuniting lost children with their worried parents. A remarkable example of this technology’s potential unfolded in New Delhi, where the police conducted a groundbreaking trial revealing the transformative potential of facial recognition technology in reuniting missing children with their families. They compared around 45,000 pictures of unidentified children with 60,000 records of missing kids. The results were truly impressive: in only four days, the software correctly identified nearly 3,000 lost children, turning sadness into joyous reunions.

This story highlights how impactful facial recognition can be in cases of missing children. It gives us a glimpse into a future where technology ensures that the joyful laughter of children continues to echo in their families’ hearts, even amidst the busiest of crowds.

Transforming Search Efforts

Before modern technology, locating missing children depended on Amber Alerts and time-consuming searches. Amber Alerts necessitated swift action from the community and media involvement. Meanwhile, physical searches often took a long time and were not always effective over large areas. These traditional methods had limitations, including delays and inefficiencies. Facial recognition technology has significantly enhanced the process of locating missing children, providing a faster and more accurate method for tracking them down and addressing the shortcomings of older methods.

This technology uses complex algorithms to analyze and verify individuals based on their facial features. It captures an image of a person’s face and identifies unique characteristics such as eye distance and nose shape. This information is then converted into a digital template, which is compared to a database of known faces. Pattern recognition techniques make accurate identification easier. Modern facial recognition systems can analyze faces with 99.97% accuracy and adapt well because they continuously adjust their algorithms using real-time data. This allows them to remain accurate as conditions change, such as lighting or shifting crowds. These systems seamlessly integrate with existing security networks and collaborate with surveillance cameras for real-time analysis and alerts. They also enhance emergency procedures by automating responses, such as alerting teams or securing areas when a child goes missing. Thanks to advances in technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning, these tools keep refining their algorithms with new data, making them more reliable for safely locating missing children.

Bringing Innovation to Everyday Spaces

In shopping centers, facial recognition technology plays an important role in finding lost children. Its real-time surveillance ensures constant monitoring throughout the space. If someone reports a missing child, security teams can use this technology to sift through live feeds and recordings to track where the child has been across stores and common areas. This helps to ensure quick action and boosts the chances of bringing kids home safely.

At carnivals and amusement parks, where large crowds are common, facial recognition technology becomes even more crucial for visitor safety. For instance, during the Rio Carnival, the technology was instrumental in ensuring a secure environment amidst the massive influx of people. The tracking was continuous, so quickly locating any missing child wasn’t a problem. Instead, it helped manage large crowds effectively! By watching entrances and key spots throughout parks, security could respond promptly if anyone went missing while deterring possible threats as well.

During other public events, such as concerts or fairs, facial recognition technology extends its benefits by maintaining safety and order among large groups. The system helps monitor wide areas and large crowds by tracking their movements, which aids in quickly locating individuals who may go missing using live footage analysis. Additionally, these systems can integrate with event management tools, enhancing security measures and improving the overall attendee experiences.

A Beacon of Hope in a Crowded World

The ability to quickly locate missing children through facial recognition brings profound psychological and emotional benefits to families, as prompt reunification significantly reduces the trauma and anxiety experienced by both the child and their parents. Beyond individual families, it fosters a sense of safety and trust within communities by enhancing security measures, leading to increased public confidence.

By enhancing our ability to swiftly locate missing children and proactively prevent such incidents, facial recognition technology not only improves safety but also builds greater security and trust within communities. As we navigate the complexities of bustling public spaces, this technology stands as a beacon of hope, transforming potential nightmares into stories of swift resolution and renewed peace of mind.

“Facial recognition is transforming the way we protect our children in public spaces. It doesn’t just offer a solution; it restores peace of mind to parents by turning moments of fear into swift, joyful reunions, making the safety of our loved ones a priority in every crowded environment.” Said, Oleg Kurochkin, Business Development Director, APAC Region, RecFaces.

“We are incredibly proud of Vipra for bringing this prestigious honor to our country. Her dedication, discipline, and passion for Bharatanatyam are truly inspiring. This victory is not only a testament to her hard work but also reflects the nurturing environment at KPS, where students are encouraged to excel in both academics and extracurricular pursuits.”

Vipra shared her thoughts on the victory, “This recognition is a dream come true. I am grateful to my teachers, mentors, and my school for their unwavering support. This achievement is a reflection of the guidance and encouragement I have received from KPS, and I am excited to continue representing our rich cultural heritage on global platforms.”

Mumbai, November 20, 2024: EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s largest online travel tech platforms, announced its partnership with BNZ Green, a leader in sustainable technology solutions. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in EaseMyTrip commitment to promoting eco-friendly green travel and reducing the environmental impact of the tourism industry.

Through this partnership, EaseMyTrip will integrate BNZ Green’s cutting-edge APIs into its booking platform. All of this will be provided through a seamless sync of a blockchain-based carbon offset program, enabling travellers to purchase carbon credits directly through the platform and receive verifiable certificates stored on a secure blockchain. The users will also have real-time access to carbon emission calculations which will make them aware of their flight’s carbon footprint.  In the broader sense, this initiative would create responsible travellers that are committed to doing their bit for the environment.

Mr. Rikant Pittie, Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip, sharing his enthusiasm for the new initiative, said “At EaseMyTrip, we recognize our responsibility to promote sustainable travel options. Our partnership with BNZ Green aligns perfectly with our vision to offer innovative solutions that benefit both our customers and the environment. By providing transparent carbon footprint data and easy offset options, we’re empowering our users to make eco-conscious decisions without compromising on their travel experiences.”

Dr. Neha Jain, Cofounder at BNZ Green, added: “We’re excited to collaborate with EaseMyTrip on this forward-thinking project. By integrating our APIs into their popular platform, we’re bringing sustainable travel options to millions of users. This partnership demonstrates how technology can be leveraged to create meaningful change in the fight against climate change.”

The integration of BNZ Green’s technology into the EaseMyTrip platform is expected to significantly enhance EaseMyTrip position as a leader in sustainable travel solutions and cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly travel options among environmentally conscious consumers.

As the travel industry continues to evolve, EaseMyTrip remains committed to innovating and providing solutions that not only meet the needs of modern travellers but also contribute to a more sustainable future for global tourism.

20 November 2024 Espoo, Finland – Nokia has been awarded a multi-year, multi-billion extension deal by Bharti Airtel (Airtel) to deploy 4G and 5G equipment across key Indian cities and states

As per the contract, Nokia will deploy equipment from its cutting-edge 5G AirScale portfolio including base stations, baseband units and the latest generation of Massive MIMO radios, all powered by its energy-efficient ReefShark System-on-Chip technology. These solutions will enhance Airtel’s network with exceptional 5G capacity and coverage and support its network evolution. Furthermore, Nokia will modernize Airtel’s existing 4G network with multiband radios and baseband equipment, which can also support 5G.

Airtel will also be leveraging Nokia’s MantaRay Network Management for intelligent network monitoring and management that uses AI-based tools covering digital deployment, optimization and technical support.

Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman and MD, Bharti Airtel, said: “Airtel has been a pioneer in network innovation, consistently pushing the boundaries for delivering cutting-edge connectivity solutions. This strategic partnership with Nokia will future proof our network infrastructure and provide customers with unparalleled user experience along with a network that will be eco-friendly to minimize environmental impact.”

Pekka Lundmark, President and CEO of Nokia, said: “This strategic agreement further solidifies our long-standing collaboration with Airtel and our footprint in India. Our industry-leading AirScale portfolio and AI-based services will enhance the energy efficiency of Airtel’s network, enabling premium 5G capacity and connectivity with the highest quality of service for subscribers.”

Nokia has collaborated with Airtel for over two decades, providing 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G network equipment. Their partnership has recently reached new heights with the launch of the Green 5G Initiative, aimed at improving the energy efficiency of Airtel’s network and reducing carbon emissions, in line with the company’s ambitious emission reduction targets.

Bengaluru ,India– November 21, 2024– The future of Aluminium Die-Casting will be on display at the upcoming 10th edition of ALUCAST® EXPO – the comprehensive biennial International Conference and Exhibition on Die Casting Technology where industry die-casting leaders, innovators, and manufacturers will converge to unveil the latest technically advanced products, materials, tools, equipment, and consumables.

Organized by The Aluminium Casters’ Association (ALUCAST)® and produced by NürnbergMesse India, the mega expo is set to take place from December 5th to 7th, 2024, at Yashobhoomi, India International Convention & Expo Center, Dwarka, Delhi, India. The exhibition, which is the biggest industry platform in India yet, will host 200 exhibitors and over 300 brands from countries, including Thailand, Germany, USA, Spain, Italy, Austria, Japan, China and France and is expected to attract over 7000 industry visitors from 20+ countries.

Expo Highlights:

• Live Demonstrations: Witness the latest machinery, tooling, material and technology designed to elevate productivity and efficiency tailored to meet the diverse needs of the aluminium die casting sector. As the platform where the future of aluminium die casting is shaped every two years, ALUCAST® 2024 showcases innovations defining the next generation of industry standards.
• Technical Conference Sessions: With 2.5 days of in-depth presentations and sessions by global industry leaders, this year’s conference theme, “Leveraging Innovation & Technology for Global Competitiveness,” will cover advancements in semi-solid casting, AI applications, die longevity, and workforce reskilling, all key topics driving the future of die casting. Delegates can secure their seat for the technical conference .
• Networking Hub: ALUCAST® is the ultimate platform for forging valuable connections, fostering collaborations, and shaping future innovations. The newly launched B2B meeting portal further enhances this experience by allowing attendees to pre-schedule meetings, optimizing networking opportunities throughout the expo.
•  Innovation & Design Awards: The expo will honor innovation and design through the Best Die Casting and Best Foundry Awards, recognizing excellence and creativity within the industry.

The Ultimate Opportunity for Industry Advancement

With a focus on meeting, sourcing, and presentation of the latest advancements, the expo bridges the gap between manufacturers, suppliers, OEMs, and industry experts from India and beyond. Mr. Prasan Firodia, President, The Aluminium Casters’ Association (ALUCAST)® and Managing Director, Force Motors & Jaya Hind Industries remarked, “With a projected CAGR of over 8.8% from 2021 to 2026, this industry demonstrates significant potential for both innovation and expansion. Aluminium die casting, known for its versatility, serves a multitude of sectors, and ALUCAST® 2024 serves as the premier industry platform uniting stakeholders under one roof.”

The growing Aluminium Die-casting industry

India’s aluminium die casting sector is a key driver in manufacturing, especially in automotive technology, with rising demand for lightweight, non-ferrous metals. India’s target to double the size of its auto industry to INR 15 lakh crore by the end of 2024 demonstrates its stronghold in automotive manufacturing, driven by a booming EV market projected to grow at a 49% CAGR by 2030.

Ms. Sonia Prashar, Managing Director, Nuernbergmesse India shares, “ALUCAST® 2024 is set to redefine industry standards with an overwhelming response from the industry. Beyond the auto industry, the anticipated growth in sectors like consumer electronics, aerospace, and electrical equipment positions aluminium die casting as a cornerstone of India’s manufacturing future. Committed to innovation and business growth we warmly welcome all stakeholders to explore, learn, and engage at this transformative event and be part of the innovations shaping the industry’s future”

As the aluminium die casting industry advances, this exhibition serves as a dynamic platform to explore trends, foster collaborations, and seize opportunities across sectors. Join us in shaping the future of manufacturing at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka – a state-of-the-art venue with convenient access via the Yashobhoomi metro station and proximity to the airport.

Bengaluru, India — JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, in collaboration with Conosh, is hosting an exclusive culinary event featuring the globally renowned restaurant from Chile, Boragó, and its acclaimed Chef Rodolfo Guzmán, for the very first time in India. Taking place at ALBA on November 22nd and 23rd, this extraordinary pop-up celebrates Chef Guzmán’s groundbreaking work, which has earned Boragó a place among The World’s 50 Best Restaurants for eight consecutive years, currently ranking at 29. Known for redefining Chilean cuisine with indigenous ingredients, innovative techniques, and sustainable practices, Chef Guzmán’s visit promises to elevate the city’s culinary landscape.

Mr. Gaurav Sinha, Hotel Manager, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, shares, “We are truly delighted to welcome everyone to a special evening with Boragó, ranked 29th on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Hosting Chef Rodolfo Guzmán at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru for the first time is a true privilege. We are extremely elated to serve all our guests a unique blend of culinary artistry and sustainability, as Chef Guzmán’s approach to honouring nature is beautifully showcased in every curated dish.”

Chef Rodolfo Guzmán, head chef and owner of Boragó, has been redefining Chilean cuisine since opening his restaurant in 2006. After honing his craft in prestigious kitchens across Chile and Europe, he pioneered the reimagining of Chile’s culinary identity through the innovative use of native ingredients, sustainable cooking methods, and extensive partnerships with over 200 Chilean producers. His work includes establishing Chile’s first culinary research center(CIB), which has transformed local produce into visionary dishes that celebrate Chile’s heritage. This exclusive dinner offers guests an immersive culinary experience that honours both tradition and innovation, showcasing Chef Guzmán’s mastery in preserving and reinterpreting Chilean culinary traditions.

Sharing his enthusiasm, Chef Guzmán expresses, “I’ve spent my whole life dreaming of immersing myself in Indian culture, which I consider one of the richest and most profound in the world. I’m delighted to finally have the opportunity to experience it firsthand during the upcoming dinners at JW Marriott Bengaluru.”

This landmark event is being brought to India through the collaboration between JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru and Conosh, an innovative platform known for curating exceptional culinary experiences. Sharing their excitement, Neha Malik and Vaibhav Bahl, Co-Founders of Conosh, say, “Conosh is proud to bring one of the most influential chefs on the global culinary scene today, Chef Rodolfo Guzmán from the iconic Boragó in Chile, to India. At Conosh, we believe in curating experiences that go beyond exceptional food; we aim to share the stories and philosophies of world-class chefs, fostering a deeper connection to the cuisine and the culture behind it.”

This exclusive event, hosted at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru in collaboration with Conosh, is a celebration of culinary artistry and sustainability. Each course of this meticulously crafted menu showcases the unique flavours and techniques that have made Boragó a global icon, while also highlighting the shared commitment to excellence that defines both JW Marriott and Conosh. Together, they are bringing global culinary excellence to India, fostering a deeper appreciation for the stories, ingredients, and traditions that make each cuisine truly unique.

Barbeque Nation , India’s leading casual dining restaurant chain, is all set to delight food enthusiasts across the country with its much-awaited Bengali Food Festival. Food lovers can immerse themselves in the vibrant and aromatic culinary tradition of Bengal with a specially curated menu available at all Barbeque Nation outlets nationwide.

The Bengali Food Festival celebrates the diversity and depth of Bengali cuisine, offering an exquisite selection of appetizers, main courses, and desserts, inspired by the region’s rich heritage. Guests can savor the distinct flavors of Bengal, from street food classics to traditional dishes, brought to life with a modern twist.

“We are thrilled to bring the vibrant and rich flavors of Bengali cuisine to our guests with the Bengali Food Festival. Bengali food is renowned for its unique combination of spices, textures, and aromas, and through this festival, we aim to offer our diners a true taste of Bengal’s culinary legacy. From street food favorites like Ghugni Puchka to the comforting, slow-cooked delicacies like Mutton Dakbungalow, we are excited to celebrate the diverse food culture of this iconic region. We believe food is a way to connect with culture, and through this festival, we hope to take our guests on a flavourful journey.”said Rahul Agrawal, CEO of Barbeque Nation.

The specially curated menu for the festival features a variety of traditional dishes that highlight the bold and unique tastes of the region.To start, guests can enjoy Spicy and tangy, Ghugni Phuchka, Ghugni Chaat, Vegetable Beetroot Chop and soft puffed Luchis paired with spicy Aloo Dum in Veg Starters. For non veg starters, there’s the crispy golden fried Fish Fingers, paired with flavorful dips and Dimer Devil, stuffed with spicy masala and deep fried to perfection.

Adding to the regional experience is a delightful and aromatic Kolkata Chicken Biryani and Misti Pulao.

Non-vegetarian lovers can relish the main course with slow cooked Mutton Dak Bunglow, Chicken Chaap and a traditional Bengali Doi Maach. Vegetarians, too, are in for a treat with dishes in main course like the rich and aromatic Kosha Potol, Jhinge Aloo Posto.

No Bengali meal is complete without indulging in traditional desserts. Guests can savor the soft spongy and iconic Bengali Rasgulla soaked in syrup, which together promise to end the meal on a sweet note.