Archives November 2024

Bengaluru, November 6, 2024 – Marriott International, Inc. (Marriott) today announced the launch of Connect Responsibly with Marriott Bonvoy Events (Connect Responsibly), a program designed to help meeting planners embed sustainability into their events at participating hotels in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. Connect Responsibly plans to offer meetings and events customers access to detailed Meeting Impact Reports to measure the environmental impact of their events and select options to purchase carbon credits.

The program is anticipated to go live at managed and franchised properties from participating brands globally by the end of October. As part of the global launch, Connect Responsibly is expected to be available in nearly 133 hotels in India, and nearly 500 properties in Asia Pacific Excluding China.

“There is nothing like connecting in person, and doing so responsibly makes it that much better. With the Connect Responsibly program, we are giving our meetings and events customers options to better understand the impacts of their meetings as we collectively strive to create a more resilient future for travel,” said Erika Alexander, Chief Global Officer, Global Operations, Marriott International.

Fueled by growing demand for meeting solutions that address sustainability and informed by research and consumer insights from its global pilot program, Marriott is focused on offering a Meeting Impact Report through the Connect Responsibly program. Available following an event, the user-friendly Meeting Impact Report is intended to capture event details, property-specific sustainability practices implemented for the event, and the event’s carbon and water footprints, calculated through established hospitality industry methodologies. Marriott expects the Meeting Impact Report to be available in 11 different languages based on location.

In collaboration with South Pole, a carbon asset developer and climate consultancy, Marriott plans to offer meetings and events customers the ability to access select carbon offset projects. Through the Meeting Impact Report, these customers will have the option to utilize the South Pole online shop to choose from a range of carbon offset projects – verified by independent third-party organizations – that can be purchased as part of their event.

“Meetings and events are important business for Marriott. Our customers are eager to participate in sustainability efforts. Connect Responsibly expands ongoing initiatives and strengthens our efforts focused on sustainability in hospitality,” said Tammy Routh, Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Marriott International. “We are excited to build on our sustainability reporting capabilities to provide our meetings and events customers with detailed Meeting Impact Reports and offer access to a select portfolio of verified carbon offset projects, through our collaboration with South Pole.”

This announcement is part of Marriott’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at properties and in the supply chain. As of April 2024, Marriott is the largest global hospitality company to receive approval from the Science Based Targets initiative for both near-term and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets (SBTs). To drive progress toward its SBTs, Marriott launched the company’s Climate Action Program (CAP), which includes property-level carbon reduction goals and actions.

Bengaluru, November 6, 2024: HDFC Life, one of India’s leading insurers, recently partnered with riidl Somaiya Vidyavihar, the startup incubation centre supported by Somaiya Trust, to host the ‘Demo Day’ for Futurance Phase 6.

Futurance, an ongoing corporate engagement programme, initiated by HDFC Life, is designed to provide startups with opportunities to develop innovative, next-generation solutions. It involves a competitive process where applications are invited from startups. The shortlisted ones get a platform to present their solutions.

Further, the winners get an opportunity to engage with HDFC Life’s leadership team, collaborate with business units, expand their customer reach, and commercialise their products.

Currently in its sixth phase, Futurance 2024, focused on the areas of MedTech, MarTech and HRTech. The ‘Demo Day’ followed the evaluation of hundreds of applications across these focus areas. Seven startups were shortlisted to present their solutions, with the top three emerging as winners. These winning startups will now conduct a Proof of Concept (POC) with HDFC Life.

Commenting on the success of Futurance Phase 6 – Demo Day, Vineet Arora – Chief Business Officer – Distribution, Data & Technology HDFC Life, said, “At HDFC Life, innovation is a way of life. We are always looking for innovative solutions to address business challenges, and partnering with startups enables us to explore cutting-edge solutions. Futurance has consistently introduced us to startups capable of delivering impactful solutions. As an insurer, we constantly strive to enhance efficiencies and improve the overall customer experience.”

Gaurang Shetty, Chief Innovation Catalyst at riidl Somaiya Vidyavihar, stated, “Bestowed with the National Award by the Department of Science & Technology, riidl Somaiya Vidyavihar has been driving innovation and entrepreneurship since 2010. With support by the Department of Science & Technology, BIRAC, Department of Biotechnology, Govt of India, and the Maharashtra State Innovation Society- Government of Maharashtra, it has incubated over 250 startups and facilitated the creation of over 1,000 jobs and internship opportunities. At riidl Somaiya Vidyavihar, we are always creating and engaging in opportunities to help innovation driven founders grow and succeed. Our partnership with HDFC Life, through its Futurance program, has been instrumental in providing entrepreneurs the opportunity to pilot their solutions, which is often a challenge. This corporate engagement program offers startups the possibility of commercial partnerships upon successful pilot completion, enabling them to innovate and create real impact in the ecosystem.”

The Amazing Goa Global Business Summit 2024 will feature a rich tapestry of exhibitions, speeches, international business activities, panel discussions, workshops, seminars, cultural programs, and networking sessions, with a special emphasis on fostering export initiatives. The summit will further address the evolving needs of Goa’s hospitality, tourism, education, healthcare and technology sectors, exploring strategies for growth, innovation, and excellence in service delivery. Attendees will have the chance to connect with global entrepreneurs, learn about emerging market trends, and explore prospects in multiple sectors.

Deltin has been an integral part of Goa’s rich tourism and hospitality landscape for more than a decade and as the exclusive entertainment partner, will give the attendees an opportunity to enjoy the vibrant experience that Deltin is known for, featuring captivating entertainment that embody the dynamic culture of Goa and India. Deltin is proud to extend its support to this noble endeavour of the Vibrant Goa Foundation for the holistic growth and development of Goa. Mr. Vinay Verma, Founder Trustee and Chairman of Amazing Goa and Mr. Arman Bankley, Founder Trustee and President of the Vibrant Goa foundation have wholeheartedly welcomed ‘Deltin’ in this committed collaboration.

Be it music or dance or a memorable night filled with thrills, Deltin guarantees an unforgettable experience, bringing a touch of luxury and excitement to the Summit. Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Manoj Jain, COO of Delta Corp Ltd, said, “We are thrilled to partner with the Amazing Goa Global Business Summit 2024, a prestigious platform that showcases Goa’s growth as a dynamic global business hub. As the exclusive entertainment partner, we are excited to bring our unique blend of world-class hospitality and entertainment to the summit. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to support Goa’s evolving business landscape, and we look forward to adding to the summit’s success.”

New Delhi, November 6, 2024: In its mission to bring India’s vibrant craft heritage closer to the world, Jaypore has cultivated partnerships with artisanal communities, textile designers, and independent artisans across the country. These collaborations reimagine traditional crafts with a modern design language that resonates with global audiences, while telling the larger stories behind each handmade piece. Among the many artforms that Jaypore has been preserving, Dokra stands out as a unique and ancient art form, practiced primarily by the Ghadwa community in Kondagaon, Chhattisgarh.

The Ancient Art of Dokra

Dokra is a 4,000-year-old metal casting craft that uses the lost-wax process, a technique passed down through generations of artisans. This labour-intensive method involves creating a wax model, coating it with clay, and then heating it so the wax melts away, leaving behind a mold into which molten metal is poured. Once the mold cools and is broken, the resulting piece emerges– each one unique and imbued with the soul of centuries-old craftsmanship. The designs, inspired by nature, mythology, and village life, are intricate, and every piece tells a story of the artisan’s skill and cultural heritage.

The Ghadwa community has been the custodians of this craft for generations, and it is their dedication that keeps the tradition alive today. However, like many traditional crafts in India, Dokra has faced challenges in finding relevance in modern markets. The artisans rely on limited local markets and occasional government support, often struggling to secure consistent orders and fair compensation for their work. This is where Jaypore’s involvement has made a crucial difference.

Reviving Dokra

Jaypore’s partnership with Dokra artisans, particularly those from Kondagaon, Chhattisgarh, has been instrumental in reviving this ancient craft and providing sustainable livelihoods to the artisans. By promoting their intricate metal creations to a wider audience, the brand has helped these artisans access new markets and appreciate the true value of their work. The brand’s commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship ensures that the artisans’ traditional methods remain intact, while the designs are adapted to suit contemporary tastes.

Jaypore has worked closely with renowned Dokra artisans like Shabbir Nag and Panchu Ram Sagar for more than four years now. Mr. Shabbir Nag, a highly respected craftsman from Kondagaon, has been recognized with the State Award for his exceptional work in the year 2005. His intricate metalwork, which draws heavily from nature and tribal motifs, has gained attention far beyond his village. Similarly, Mr. Panchu Ram Sagar, another master artisan, has earned both the State Award and the prestigious National Award for his contributions to Dokra in the year 1999.

Empowering Artisans and Communities

One of the most remarkable outcomes of Jaypore’s collaboration with Dokra artisans has been the steady and reliable income these skilled craftsmen have been able to generate. Beyond this, they now have a platform to showcase and sell their unique creations to an international audience, with Jaypore’s online presence extending all the way to the US. These artisans have been receiving regular orders from the brand, giving them a platform where their craft is truly appreciated. With Jaypore’s 27 stores across the country and a strong online presence, they have the opportunity to showcase their products to connoisseurs of the Dokra craft, offering a first-hand experience. This support has enabled them to focus on their craft without the worry of erratic earnings. The impact of Jaypore’s collaboration extends beyond the individual artisans thereby empowering the community at large with employment opportunities and inclusive growth. The consistent demand for Dokra products has enabled many women from the Ghadwa community to get involved in the craft, either by assisting in the production process or by managing the business side of things. This inclusion of women has further strengthened the community, creating more opportunities for financial independence and growth.

Reflecting on the partnership, Radhika Chhabra, Creative Head, Jaypore, says, “Our collaboration with the Ghadwa artisans has been a remarkable journey of mutual growth. At Jaypore, we take pride in preserving and promoting traditional crafts, while also ensuring that the talented hands behind these creations receive the recognition and support, they deserve.” Chhabra’s words encapsulate the essence of Jaypore’s mission– fostering relationships that celebrate India’s heritage while creating pathways for artisans to thrive in today’s world.

Through its collaborations with artisans like those practicing Dokra in Kondagaon, Jaypore continues to uphold its vision of bringing timeless Indian craftsmanship to a global audience. The brand’s efforts are not only preserving ancient crafts but are also empowering artisans by providing them with the tools, platforms, and opportunities needed to sustain their heritage in the modern world. In doing so, Jaypore remains true to its mission: to celebrate India’s craft heritage, one handmade piece at a time.

Jaypore’s Dokra collection showcases an array of exquisite metal artifacts that embody the heritage and craftsmanship of this ancient art form. The collection features everything from intricately designed home décor items like candle holders and figurines, to statement jewelry pieces, all handcrafted by the artisans using the traditional lost-wax casting technique. Each piece in the collection reflects the delicate balance between raw, rustic aesthetics and fine detailing, inspired by motifs from nature, mythology, and tribal life. The labor-intensive process ensures that no two pieces are exactly alike, making them truly unique. Jaypore’s Dokra offerings include brass and bronze creations that are not only functional but also serve as timeless decorative pieces, representing the spirit of India’s artisanal mastery. The artisans meticulously craft each product by hand, from sculpting the initial wax models to the final polish, ensuring a level of authenticity and artistry that connects modern buyers to centuries-old traditions. Through these offerings, Jaypore continues to bring the timeless allure of Dokra to homes around the world, giving connoisseurs a chance to own a piece of history, while supporting the artisans who have kept this tradition alive for generations.

Hyderabad, 06 November 2024 – Starbucks Reserve® has announced the launch of its single-origin coffee, Monsooned Malabar, in India. This exceptional Arabica blend hails from the Malabar coast and embodies the rich traditions of Southern India’s esteemed coffee culture, shaped by coastal winds and monsoon rains. Crafted as a tribute to the artistry and dedication of Indian coffee farmers, Monsooned Malabar offers a unique flavor profile featuring earthy sweetness, chocolate, dried spices, and a satisfying malty finish.

Sourced from the highlands of the Chikmagalur district, the coffee cherries are first harvested in the rain and then transported to the Malabar coast for the traditional monsooning. Here, the beans are spread out to absorb the seasonal rains and coastal winds for up to six months. During this time, they are meticulously raked and turned to ensure uniform exposure to humidity. This process causes the beans to swell, transforming them into a light tan color while reducing acidity and unveiling new aromas and flavors.

This limited-edition Reserve® Blend carries the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, affirming its exceptional quality and heritage. The journey from bean to cup showcases craftsmanship in every sip, inviting coffee enthusiasts to experience the flavor of monsoon and legacy of the Indian coffee culture.

Sushant Dash, CEO, TATA Starbucks shared “The growth of India’s specialty coffee market is driven by a new generation of enthusiasts seeking premium experiences. At Starbucks Reserve®, everything we do is in the name of coffee, exemplifying our passion, innovation, and expertise to this craft. The monsooning process, a time-honored Indian tradition, results in a distinctive coffee with bold flavors. We are looking forward to showcasing India’s rich coffee heritage on a global stage and creating an elevated experience for consumers both nationally and worldwide.”

Star Bharat’s popular suspense thriller show ‘Shaitani Rasmein’ has captured the hearts of viewers with its gripping storyline and stellar cast, and it just hit a fantastic milestone—250 episodes! The show’s thrilling twists and turns have kept audiences hooked, and the dedication of the cast and crew shines through every scene. To celebrate this big achievement, the entire team gathered on set, cutting a cake and sharing heartfelt moments together. It’s a well-deserved celebration for all the hard work that’s gone into making each episode memorable. Here’s to many more thrilling episodes!

Reaching the 250-episode milestone was nothing short of a thrilling accomplishment for the entire cast and crew! With passion and dedication, they kept the energy high and the ‘fun-o-meter’ buzzing.

On this special occasion, lead actor Siddhant Issar expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m absolutely thrilled right now! Though most of the cast has changed, a few of us have stayed on and the love from the audience for the new cast has been incredible. This next generation in the storyline is winning hearts everywhere! From the very beginning, the show has only climbed higher, and I’m just here to bring our director’s vision to life.”

Lead actress Sumit Singh shared her excitement, saying, “It’s amazing to be part of this show and to feel all the love pouring in from our audience! Being a new addition, I wasn’t sure how viewers would react, but the support for my character and the storyline has been incredible. This journey has been so exciting, and the entire cast is like one big family, none of this would be possible without their support and the energy from our fans. We’re working hard to bring even more entertainment your way, and I can’t wait to see us hit new milestones together!”

INDIA — November 06th, 2024 – Logitech G, a brand of Logitech (SIX: LOGN) (NASDAQ: LOGI), announced the launch of its latest PRO Series gear, designed to meet the demands of elite esports athletes and competitive gamers. The new lineup includes the PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX Gaming Mouse, the PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED Gaming Mouse, and the PRO X TKL RAPID Gaming Keyboard.

“We pour a lot into our PRO series products, focusing on innovations that deliver immediate performance gains by forming deep partnerships with pros to meet their exacting needs. This research and design practice not only allows us to identify and create product breakthroughs but also serves as a performance test bed that ultimately serves the entire gaming community,” said Chris Pate, Head of PRO Series Product Development at Logitech G. “With our new PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX, our new ambidextrous PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED, and our first magnetic analog rapid trigger keyboard, the PRO X TKL RAPID, we’re meeting gamers’ needs for the highest performance gear possible.”

Over the past three years, Logitech G has worked with hundreds of professional esports athletes to create the next generation of PRO Series gear. These new products, combined with the current line-up of PRO Series gear, offer players the shape, playstyle, and functionality choices they need to find the best fit for them. Players can also feel confident that as a PRO Series product, each guarantees the highest level of performance across mice and keyboards. The newest additions to the PRO Series include:

PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX: The Asymmetrical Gaming Sharpshooter

The Logitech G PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX is the cornerstone of our new releases, featuring a brand-new, asymmetrical, right-handed design developed with feedback from professional gamers in titles like Counter-Strike and Valorant. This mouse is not just about ergonomics; it’s a technological powerhouse.

LIGHTSPEED Wireless Technology: Upgraded to support 8KHz polling, delivering ultra-fast and responsive performance.
HERO 2 Sensor: Re-engineered from the ground up to help achieve 8kHz polling, this sensor now offers unmatched tracking performance with speeds over 888 inches per second and acceleration over 88G.
LIGHTFORCE Switches: Combines optical sensing for instant actuation and reliability with a mechanical component for a satisfying click and low power consumption.

Sustainability: Manufactured with up to 55% post-consumer recycled ABS plastic, significantly reducing its carbon impact. DEX is a specialized right-handed tool that many pro players have asked us to add to the PRO Series portfolio. As with our PRO Series gear, DEX has been a multi-year development cycle, working with hundreds of elite esports athletes to meet their specific needs.

“The PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2 DEX feels like an extension of my hand, and that kind of comfort is crucial in high-stakes matches,” said Nikola “NiKo” Kovač, G2 Esports, Counter-Strike  “DEX delivers on the quality, precision, and speed that I told Logitech I need to win.”

PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED: An Upgrade to the Iconic PRO Wireless

In addition to launching a brand-new right-handed PRO gaming mouse, we have taken the opportunity to launch the Logitech G PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED. The new PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED takes the original ambidextrous design of the PRO Wireless gaming mouse to the next level with state-of-the-art components and performance enhancements. This is an evolution of an esports icon featuring the latest LIGHTSPEED and HERO 2 updates.

“If you are a fan of ambidextrous mice, the G PRO 2 LIGHTSPEED is definitely the one I recommend!” said Evan “evv” De Couto, FlyQuest RED, Valorant. “It’s such a fast and responsive mouse, and its shape is effortless to hold, which makes adjusting to your targets more precise and simpler.”

PRO X TKL RAPID: The First Pro Grade Rapid Trigger Keyboard

The PRO X TKL RAPID is Logitech G’s debut magnetic analog keyboard, offering adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger functionality. These features empower professionals to execute movements and commands with exceptional speed and precision. The keyboard’s actuation points, and rapid trigger settings can be adjusted instantly without software, making it ideal for esports pros who must configure new hardware on systems where software installation isn’t allowed.

“I’ve tested many analog keyboards out there, but what sets the PRO X TKL RAPID apart is how Logitech truly listened to my input” said Ilya “m0NESY’” Osipov, G2 Esports, Counter-Strike 2. “They took the time to understand what I needed in a keyboard and made sure those features were reflected in the final product.”

Hyderabad, 6th November 2024 — The vibrant Tribe Meet, hosted by Student Tribe, united over 1,500 students from 60 colleges in an empowering day of networking, learning, and inspiration. The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Rs. 50,000 Diya Scholarship to Ashwini, a dedicated female student pursuing higher education despite financial challenges. This scholarship, established in memory of Diya, a former Student Tribe intern who tragically passed due to a medical error and is dedicated to supporting ambitious young women facing similar hardships.

In addition to the scholarship award, Tribe Meet offered students live internship placements and exciting giveaways, including a smartphone and Skillshare subscriptions, enhancing the event’s spirit of opportunity and growth. Special guests, such as the Pottel movie team, Fountane’s founder Aditya Siripragada, and popular digital creator Jasti, shared personal insights, encouraging students to embrace resilience and dedication in their educational journeys.

Sri Charan Lakkaraju, Founder & CEO of Student Tribe, emphasized the event’s purpose and the significance of the scholarship, stating, “This scholarship not only honors Diya’s contributions and the lasting impact she had on our community, but it also reaffirms our commitment to supporting talented students facing financial obstacles in their pursuit of education. Moving forward, we aim to expand the scholarship program by increasing the funding amount and supporting more individuals, with a goal of awarding at least 33 scholarships each quarter. At Student Tribe, we believe no student should have to compromise on their dreams due to financial constraints.”

Ashwini, the first recipient, expressed her heartfelt gratitude: “This support allows me to focus on my studies without financial worries. I am thankful for the opportunity.”

Himachal Pradesh, 06 November 2024: ACC, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is committed to community welfare through enhanced healthcare access for all. Along with the Adani Foundation, the Company has donated a portable X-ray machine to the District Tuberculosis (TB) Hospital in rural Bilaspur. This initiative aims to help detect TB early, a major health issue in the region.

The ‘Mini90’ X-ray machine is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for use in remote and hilly areas. It helps doctors diagnose patients quickly by providing clear images, which is especially important for checking chest, spine, and head conditions.

This X-ray machine donation will allow for better screening, resulting in faster treatment for people who need it the most in rural areas, wherein such devices may not be easily accessible. TB remains a serious concern in Bilaspur, with 249 cases per 100,000 people. This X-ray machine will help identify more cases and ensure quicker treatment.

ACC and the Adani Foundation are committed to supporting community welfare by focusing on projects that improve health, education, and livelihoods across all locations.

Mumbai, 6th November 2024: Quess Workforce Management is set to launch its very first advertising campaign. Over the last 17 years, Quess has established itself as a global leader in staffing solutions. Today Quess is one of the leading employers in the country with over 5,00,000 employees, providing the best in class workforce to clients across Manufacturing, IT, BFSI, Retail and Telecom. The company is now set for the next phase of its journey.

The high octane film features Indian fast bowling sensation Jasprit Bumrah. It follows Bumrah’s journey from his tiny backyard to the world’s best cricket stadiums. A journey fuelled by determination, dedication, sharp focus and a pursuit of excellence, attributes that mirror Quess’s own company philosophy. The film is conceived by Famous Innovations and made by Little Giants Films. It can be seen in movie theatres, YouTube, LinkedIn and other social media platforms.

Speaking about the film, Mr. Guruprasad Srinivasan, ED & Group CEO, Quess Corp, says: “Our ad campaign celebrates perseverance, determination, and dedication that is synonymous to Jasprit Bumrah’s accomplishments and Quess Corp’s 17-year history as a workforce management pioneer. Like Bumrah’s rise from his humble beginnings to a global cricketing icon reflects his grit and commitment to excellence. This campaign #findyourwings showcases the opportunities and career journey for our associates to build their aspirations through Quess. We’re excited to begin this new chapter, reinforcing our promise to deliver state of the art workforce solutions.”

George Kovoor, Chief Creative Officer, Famous Innovations, South, says: “Quess’s journey has been both meteoric and inspiring. Pretty much the same can be said of one of my favourite cricketers, Jasprit Bumrah. This film is charged with the energy and passion of two world beaters and I am very excited with what we were able to create. I have very little doubt that this is one of Bumrah’s best films. I thank the clients for backing us in this exciting and extremely satisfying project.”