Archives November 2024

Hyderabad, November 15, 2024- The World Diabetic Day was observed at Pushpagiri Vitreo Retina Institute(PVRI) at Marredpally. A free check-up camp was organised which was then followed’ by an awareness talk by Dr. Vishal Govind Hari and Dr Sai Kiranmai.” The doctors advised that Diabetics must get their eyes checked once every six months.

If you have diabetes you may be at risk of developing an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy can cause sight loss if it’s not treated. Diabetic eye screening checks for signs of diabetic retinopathy, often before you notice any changes in your sight, the doctors told the patients.

Bengaluru, 15 November 2024: Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar today unveiled the “QS I-GAUGE Institution of Happiness Report 2024,” which provides a detailed analysis of the key factors influencing happiness, mental health, and well-being within academic environments. This extensive survey, one of the largest of its kind, gathered responses from 160,710 students and 20,768 faculty members across 108 educational institutions in 16 states and 1 Union Territory in India.

QS I-GAUGE is India’s leading education rating and assessment platform. The Institution of Happiness Survey 2024 explores various dimensions of well-being, equipping educational institutions with actionable insights to foster positive, inclusive, and supportive environments for both students and faculty.

While releasing the report, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said: “Education is not just about imparting knowledge, but about nurturing joy, resilience, and compassion. By fostering emotional well-being and mindful growth, institutions can create a culture that supports not only the intellect but also the heart and soul of every student and educator.”

The report reveals that a strong sense of belonging, and inclusivity significantly enhances happiness among students and faculty. Educational institutions where individuals feel connected and included tend to report higher overall well-being. However, the survey highlights the need for targeted measures to support those who may feel isolated or disconnected. Establishing mentorship programs and cultural affinity groups can effectively create a more inclusive atmosphere, encouraging broader participation and engagement.

Mr. Ravin Nair, Managing Director of QS I-GAUGE, commented on the findings: “Our goal with this report is to inspire change in the education sector. By prioritising mental health and fostering a culture of happiness, institutions can create a more conducive environment for both academic and personal growth.”

Chennai, November 15, 2024 – Orion Innovation (“Orion”), a leading digital transformation and product development services firm, today announced the appointment of Brian Bronson as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. With over 25 years of leadership experience across global technology sectors, Bronson will lead Orion’s next phase of growth and transformation, focusing on expanding the company’s digital capabilities and market presence. Brian succeeds Raj Patil, who will transition to an advisory role with the company.

“Brian’s impressive track record of driving profitable growth and leading large-scale organizational transformation makes him the ideal leader for Orion’s next chapter,” said Carlo Padovano, Partner at One Equity Partners, and Lead Director of Orion Innovation. “His deep expertise in product engineering, GenAI adoption, and digital transformation perfectly aligns with our vision for Orion’s future. On behalf of the Orion Board, I’d like to thank Raj for his leadership and dedication, while working together to develop Orion into a market leader.”

“I’m honored to take on this role and excited about the tremendous opportunities ahead for Orion,” said Bronson. “The company has built an impressive foundation with a blue-chip roster of clients, a global delivery platform, and a talented team with deep domain and engineering expertise. I look forward to working closely with our employees, clients, and partners as we deliver transformative solutions to our clients, drive innovation, and scale our capabilities.”

Before joining Orion, Brian served as EVP of US Telecom, Media, and Entertainment at Capgemini. Additionally, he led the integration and execution of Capgemini’s global engineering services business across the Americas and Asia. This included driving growth in many industries leveraging innovative capabilities tied to 5G, connectivity, and software product engineering. Previously, as President & CEO of Radisys, a leading provider of open telecom solutions, he led the company’s strategic transformation from a hardware company to a provider of cutting-edge software and enabling technologies for the telecom, technology, and medical industries. This transformation culminated in the sale of Radisys to Reliance Industries in 2018, marking a successful exit for the company.

Mumbai, 15 Novemer 2024: RPG Group, one of India’s leading business conglomerates, has introduced HappyXchange, an innovative platform designed to transform how recognition and rewards are shared across the organisation. At the heart of this platform is RPG’s unique “Currency of Happiness”— Happiness Coins. This initiative brings RPG’s long-held belief that happiness is real when it’s shared, and now with this initiative, everyone has a way to make that sharing tangible and visible.

HappyXchange unites all of RPG’s rewards and recognition programs, making it easier for employees to celebrate contributions of all kinds, big and small. The platform empowers employees across all levels with “Happiness Coins”, a special currency that can used to recognise each other’s efforts, teamwork, support, and mentorship.

Whether it’s a manager showing gratitude to a team member, a peer acknowledging a colleague, or even a junior employee appreciating a senior leader, Happiness Coins make it possible for everyone at RPG to express appreciation and foster connection. The initiative enables employees to redeem their Happiness Coins for curated rewards in the Marketplace, ranging from travel experiences to merchandise and other meaningful experiences.

This isn’t just another rewards platform—it’s a celebration of a truly egalitarian culture at RPG, where acknowledgment flows freely across hierarchies, bridging the traditional gaps between roles and levels.

Harsh Goenka, Chairman, RPG Group, shares his thoughts on this initiative, “HappyXchange embodies our belief that happiness is not only an experience but a culture we cultivate together. By recognising the small yet impactful actions of our team members — whether it’s lending a helping hand or celebrating milestones — we are reinforcing the idea that every contribution matters. This initiative is more than just rewarding efforts; it’s about building a culture where every individual feels valued and motivated to contribute to our collective success.”

Venkatesh, President –GroupHR, RPG Group, says: “HappyXchange is our way of making appreciation a living, breathing part of RPG’s culture. With Happiness Coins, we are offering everyone, not just managers, the power to recognise, appreciate, and uplift each other. It’s simple, it’s tangible, and it strengthens the bonds we share as RPGians.”

November 15^th 2024: Yatra Online Limited {BSE: 543992 & NSE: YATRA}, India’s largest corporate travel services provider and the third largest online travel company in India among key OTA players* announces its results for the second quarter of financial year 2024-25.

Q2-FY25 Consolidated Financial Performance

Q2-FY25 Business Highlights:

• For Q2-FY25, Yatra reported revenue of INR 2,364 million, up 151% YoY, largely due to outperformance of our Hotels and Packages business and contribution from the MICE segment. The results for the quarter also include contribution from Globe All India Services Limited (Globe Travels) for 20 days of the quarter from September 11-30, 2024.
• Yatra continued to expand its corporate client base and closed 29 new corporate accounts during the quarter with billing potential of INR 1,213 million.
• On September 11, 2024, Yatra completed the acquisition of Globe Travels for INR 1,280 million in cash. This strategic acquisition brought approximately 360 new corporate clients, further strengthening Yatra’s leadership in India’s corporate travel sector.
• Yatra’s cash and cash equivalent and term deposit stands at INR 2,129 million as on 30^th September 2024 compared to 6,441 million as on 30^th September 2023.
• Yatra’s gross debts stands at INR 277 million as on 30^th September 2024 compared to INR 1,742 million as on 30^th September 2023.

Management Comments:

Commenting on the results, Whole Time Director cum Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Dhruv Shringi stated:

“For the three months ended September 30, 2024, we reported strong growth both year over year and sequentially.   Our Revenue grew 151% year-over-year to INR 2,364 million, on account of strong growth in our Hotel and Packages and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) businesses. Adjusted EBITDA at INR 136 million for the quarter was up 29% year-over-year.  Despite the challenges in the B2C air business, we continue to drive strong growth in our Hotels and MICE lines of business, which helped us more than offset the negative impact of the B2C air business.

We also successfully completed the acquisition of Globe Travels and welcomed the Globe employees and customers to the Yatra family.  Globe Travels’ expertise in MICE complements our recent organic expansion in this segment, positioning Yatra as one of India’s largest players in this segment. With minimal overlap in client portfolios, this acquisition diversifies our client base and enhances cross-selling opportunities for hotels and expense management services. Additionally, integrating our digital booking platform with Globe’s largely offline business is expected to drive synergies, operational efficiencies, and cost savings for our corporate clients.

We are encouraged by the strong momentum across all metrics in our Corporate Travel business, underscored by our growth in new accounts and MICE capabilities. As we continue to navigate a dynamic market, our focus remains on executing our strategic priorities to reinforce our market leadership and drive long-term value for stakeholders.”

New Delhi, 15th November 2024: When one thinks of a cream biscuit, they usually think of a sandwich biscuit, but today is different. Introducing Britannia Pure Magic Choco Stars, a groundbreaking new chocolate cream cookie that will redefine the way we enjoy cream-filled treats.

Unlike traditional sandwich biscuits, Britannia Pure Magic Choco Stars features an innovative open-cream format, where the rich, velvety chocolate cream is embedded in a star-shaped cavity on the lower half of the cookie—without a top biscuit layer. This one-of-a-kind design allows for a more indulgent, flavorful and chocolatey experience with every bite.

To announce the launch, Britannia Pure Magic Choco Stars is unveiling an advertising campaign centered around the 12 star signs. The heart of the campaign revolves around a series of 12 imaginative and engaging ads, each inspired by one of the star signs. This makes each star sign’s Choco Star moment both relatable, memorable and share worthy. The campaign, which will run across multiple platforms, portrays how each zodiac personality enjoys their Choco Stars in a unique and playful way, reflecting their individual traits and preferences.

From an over-sensitive Piscean, generous Cancerian to a Royal Leo or Magnetic Scorpio, each ad will depict how individuals of each sign approach the act of eating a chocolate filled Britannia Pure Magic Choco Star—whether it’s savoring the moment, devouring it in one bite, or making it a ritual.

Amit Doshi, Chief Marketing Officer of Britannia said, “We wanted to create a product that would break the mold of traditional cream biscuits, and Pure Magic Choco Stars is an exciting new format that brings an extra level of fun and enjoyment to every bite. As the newest addition to our Pure Magic brand, which continues to push the envelope with its innovative chocolate offerings, Choco Stars brings a fresh twist to the choco-bakery experience. Paired with our star sign-themed campaign, we hope to connect with consumers on a deeper level by tapping into the unique personalities and behaviors that make each of us who we are”.

According to Suyash Khabya, Chief Creative Officer, The Womb “When thinking of interesting ways to eat Choco Stars, someone in the creative team said we can plan 100 interesting ways to eat it…but actually, on deep creative introspection, we figured there are only 12 ways to eat Choco Stars. Because there are only 12 star signs! Ta-da.

Each star sign eats Choco Stars according to their personality trait. We had great fun figuring the personality traits and matching them to the star signs. On another note,  I am just wondering when was the last time a product was launched with 12 ads on the same day?!? Hats off to the team at Britannia for lapping up the idea on the first hearing itself.

Not just TV, we have a solid digital & social plan for this campaign. We will be targeting people on the basis of their star signs on Meta. And we are very confident that the idea inherently has virality embedded in it, it’s simple yet unignorable. And it will lead to sharing and conversations.”

Hyderabad, November 15, 2024- The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), the 106-year-old one of the most vibrant regional chambers, embarked on a new initiative ‘FTCCI President’s Cup 2024. It is an industry cricket tournament.

Mohammad Azharuddin, former Indian Captain unveiled the poster in a brief function held today at FTCCI Office in Red Hills.

Speaking to the gathering the former Indian captain said ‘I am always there for cricket’. Industries need some relaxation and a cricket league for industries is a very good idea. All business and no play is not good for health. They need to play sports to keep fit and lead an active lifestyle, he said.

Azharuddin said along with cricket they must also organise tournaments for other sports. We need to encourage other sports as well.

Replying to a question he said, the real romance in cricket is test matches. Without them, the sport will lose its sheen.

Mr Suresh Singhal, President of FTCCI said it is not merely a sporting event but also a celebration, an event for fostering bonds among people in the industries, forging friendships, collaborations, and networking.

The league will be held on 15th, 16th and 17th December. It will have 8 teams, comprising 11 players and it will be ten over each side’s tournament. The winners will walk away with prizes.

Mr Ravi Kumar, , and KK Maheshwari Vice Presidents of FTCCI and Teams and Players have also participated in the program

Bengaluru, 15 November 2024: As the nation celebrates Children’s Day today, Godrej Jersey carried out a survey amongst the Indian parents to understand their rationale of giving milk to their child. While some highlighted the need to remain fit and weight management in addition to gaining some energy and as a meal replacement, 63% Bengaluru-based parents and 60% parents across the country said that they give milk to their kids to maintain intake of calcium.

Titled ‘Bottoms Up India Says Cheers to Milk!’ the comprehensive study covering consumer responses from Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore, and Kolkata, provides valuable insights into evolving consumer preferences and industry trends. Beyond understanding the parents’ rationale for giving milk to their child, the survey also tried understanding  which milk-based products they prefer for their kid.

Commenting on the findings, Bhupendra Suri, CEO, Godrej Jersey said, “Multiple research studies globally and in India have proven the nutritional value of milk which is good for children. Consisting of high nutritional quality protein, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin A, it is widely an imperative for growing children. Amidst this, it is encouraging to see from our consumer survey on why parents prefer to give milk to their kids.”

Another interesting insight which came from report was that 90% of Indian kids drink milk more than 4-5 times a week and more than 40% of parents were open to consider flavoured milk as a school meal, or for consumption during the day, or more specifically during playtime!

The survey was designed and conducted by YouGov. Creamline Dairy Products Limited, a subsidiary of Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL), a diversified food and agri-business conglomerate of Godrej Group sells the products under the brand name Godrej Jersey.

Mumbai, November 15, 2024 – In a world where childhood nutrition and environmental consciousness are becoming more important than ever, Akshayakalpa Organic is leading the way with its ‘Zero Waste, Zero Junk Birthdays’—an inspiring initiative encouraging families to rethink traditional birthday parties by celebrating with healthier and sustainable choices.

This Children’s Day, Akshayakalpa Organic invites parents and children alike to host parties that embrace good food and zero waste. These celebrations emphasize reducing food waste, while also offering families memorable and meaningful parties with wholesome food, sustainable practices, and enjoyable activities.

Commenting on the new initiative, Mr. Shashi Kumar, Co-Founder and CEO of Akshayakalpa Organic, said, “Celebrations should be moments of joy, and there’s no greater joy than sharing food that nourishes and sustains! At Akshayakalpa, we believe that a child’s relationship with food begins with the choices we make as parents and caregivers. By encouraging children to enjoy real and wholesome food early on, we’re making these moments healthier and planting the seeds for a lifetime of well-being. When kids grow up understanding the value of good food, they gain a foundation for a brighter, and a more balanced life—where fun and health go hand in hand.”

Akshayakalpa Organic’s ‘Zero Waste, Zero Junk Birthdays’ concept offers five meaningful ways to bring health and eco-awareness to young minds, proving that birthdays can be both fun and meaningful.

1. Wholesome Treats That Kids Will Love –

Children’s birthday parties often serve sugary and processed snacks, which contribute to poor dietary habits and exposing them to the the risk of diabetes. Akshayakalpa Organic offers healthier options that don’t compromise on taste by creating a menu that’s both delicious and nutritious:

· No-Maida, No-Sugar Cake – Made with natural sweeteners like jaggery, dates, or honey, this cake is a guilt-free treat

· Millet Spaghetti – High in fiber and essential nutrients, this dish offers a kid-friendly twist on pasta

· Organic Cheese Platters with Fruits, Nuts, and Honey – Featuring Akshayakalpa’s organic cheese, these platters are a fun and tasty way for kids to enjoy fruits and cheese that are nutritious and nourishing.

· Makhana Cones and Tubs – Offering an alternative to fried popcorn, these makhanas are light, crunchy, organic snacks served in eco-friendly cones or tubs. After the celebration, these can be composted.

2. Nutritious Drinks Kids Enjoy

At Akshayakalpa’s birthday parties, sugary sodas are replaced with wholesome beverages that are both refreshing and nutritious:

· Fruit Yogurts – Organic yogurts loaded with probiotics and free from added sugars

· Buttermilk – A traditional, sugar-free drink is rich in probiotics and great for digestion

· Organic Milk Smoothies and Drinks – Smooth and mildly sweet, these drinks provide protein and fiber in every sip, made with organic milk

3. Sustainable Decor – Eco-Friendly and Beautiful

Akshayakalpa’s zero-waste parties are held in apartments or community spaces, that are decorated using reusable and natural materials. Stainless steel utensils and cups made of leaves are used for serving food, while decorations are crafted from leaves, twigs, and repurposed or biodegradable/compostable materials. Once the celebrations are over, everything is collected for reuse or composting, ensuring that nothing ends up as waste.

4. Thoughtful Return Gifts That Keep on Giving

Instead of the usual trinkets and plastic toys, children leave with a small potted plant and an organic gardening kit. These thoughtful gifts offer both joy and a hands-on way to learn about sustainability and eco-conscious.

5. Interactive Activities that Encourage Health and Eco-Awareness

The celebrations are designed to be meaningful and memorable with engaging, nature-inspired activities:

· Seedball Making – Kids get their hands dirty as they to make seedballs while learning about planting and nurturing seeds

· Nature Art Using Coconut Leaves – Children can get creative by making creatures and various items using coconut leaves

· Pebble Painting and Nature Art – Kids can decorate pebbles and create nature-inspired artwork, fostering an appreciation for the environment while sparking creativity

Akshayakalpa Organic’s ‘Zero Waste, Zero Junk Birthdays’ are more than having just a good time; it is about instilling values of health and sustainability in children from a young age. This Children’s Day, Akshayakalpa invites families to join in celebrating responsibly, building a future that’s better for both kids and the planet.