Archives November 2024

Itanagar; November 6, 2024: Mega Entertainment, north east’s largest fashion and pageant event organizer, organized the campus auditions for the 14^th edition of Set Wet Mega Mister North East and 21^st edition of Livon Mega Miss North East at NERIST, Nirjuli today.

Mega Miss North East and Mega Mister North East pageants are the brainchild of fashionpreneur Abhijeet Singha. The events have been produced by Mega Entertainment, and are marketed by Mega Activation. After Itanagar, Mega Entertainment team will conduct auditions in Aizawl on November 16, Gangtok on November 17, Imphal, Agartala and Dimapur on November 24, Shillong on November 30 and Guwahati on December 1.

Mega Mister North East has been supported by Title Sponsor – Set Wet. Mega Miss North East has been supported by Title Sponsor – Livon, Cosmetics Partner – Neyah, and Hospitality Partner – Hotel Daaysco Oley Allo.

A total of around 60 participants turned up for the auditions today. The Mega Entertainment team will conduct auditions in all the eight northeastern states, and the finalists selected through these auditions will travel to Guwahati for a week of training and the grand finale, to be held at ITA Cultural Complex, on January 30 and 31, 2025.

November 5^th, 2024 – ILUNION Hotels and Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, one of the world’s leading institutions in hospitality management and luxury tourism education, have unveiled the results of the First Hotel Innovation Barometer during the III Global Summit by ILUNION Hotels. This pioneering study, conducted in collaboration between both organizations, provides a comprehensive view of how over 40 international hotel companies of various sizes in Spain and abroad are adopting innovation to enhance their competitiveness and meet future market demands.

The report offers a unique snapshot of the maturity level of innovation within the hotel sector. Moreover, it serves as a benchmark tool for identifying where a hotel company stands in relation to the rest of the market. The study evaluated seven key variables: strategy, technology, structure and processes, ecosystem, culture, competitive intelligence, and communication. The anonymous survey targeted CEOs and directors of Innovation, Technology, and Transformation from medium and large hotel companies, using objective metrics.

Training and Synergies as a Catalyst for Innovation

Nearly 60% of respondents stated that their brand does not allocate any specific budget for innovation. Among those that do have an innovation budget, most initiatives are driven by top executives rather than specialists in the field. The results show that only 25% of companies offer dedicated training programs in innovation.

As the qualitative report highlights, innovation goes beyond just technology; it is a process that creates value throughout the entire production chain, with significant room for improvement. Innovation is emerging as a critical tool for hotels to anticipate future trends, respond to the needs of both customers and employees, and explore new technologies.

Although most participants support collaboration and synergy among companies, the study reveals that about 50% of them are not yet interested in collaborating with startups.

Additionally, more than half of the respondents state that their companies proactively apply innovation, aiming to position themselves as market leaders or pioneers in the hotel industry. However, less than half of the participating companies successfully leverage innovation insights and intelligence from other industries.

Findings and Future Updates

The First Hotel Innovation Barometer demonstrates that while innovation is primarily driven by technology and strategic market alignment, leadership, training, and corporate partnerships are still lacking for further evolution.

“This barometer not only assesses the current state of innovation but also serves as a strategic tool for hotel companies to measure, understand, and improve their innovation capabilities,” said Carlos Bello, Director of Innovation at ILUNION Hotels. “Innovation is a key differentiating factor in such a competitive market, and this barometer shows us the direction we need to take,” he added.

Les Roches also emphasizes the importance of innovation as a driver of competitiveness: “This study encourages hotel companies to take decisive action to improve their processes and services, showing that collaboration with startups, as well as with academic, public, and tech organizations, is essential,” said Susana Garrido, Director of Innovation (Spark X Foundation) and EdTech at Les Roches.

Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches, added: “We are in the perfect moment to foster a culture of innovation. Our companies have all the tools they need to develop competitive projects that add value to our market. Two key aspects are crucial here: training and the creation of an innovative ecosystem that draws from other sectors, creating synergies and mutually beneficial agreements.”

Mumbai, India: Get ready for an unforgettable celebration! The Phoenix Festival 2024 is set to redefine the shopping experience across India, transforming everyday moments into extraordinary memories. Phoenix Malls proudly announces a spectacular festival that will engage, entertain, and elevate the retail therapy experience for shoppers nationwide.

Spanning five cities and seven malls—including Phoenix Palladium Mumbai, Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai, Phoenix Marketcity Pune, Phoenix Mall of the Millennium Pune, Phoenix Palladium Ahmedabad, Phoenix Citadel Indore, and Phoenix Palassio Lucknow—this unparalleled festival promises a captivating mix of shopping, entertainment, food, and art.

Avant-Garde Transformative Décor Experience

Prepare to be amazed! Each Phoenix Mall will undergo a spectacular transformation, showcasing jaw-dropping visual splendour and larger-than-life décor that will transport shoppers to another realm. Every corner will captivate the senses with whimsical themed installations and stunning festive displays. This immersive environment promises to create unforgettable experiences, ensuring that every visit is a memorable adventure for years to come.

Phoenix Palladium Mumbai features a stunning 52-foot lantern, the largest in the country, alongside the captivating “Weavers of Dream” installation, celebrating India’s rich textile heritage ‘Treasures of India’. These breath-taking displays highlight the artistry and craftsmanship that define the nation’s diverse cultural landscape.

Palladium Ahmedabad’s Lotus Whispers décor symbolises purity and enlightenment with vibrant colours and delicate designs.

Meanwhile, Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai Kurla dazzles with its ‘Celestial’ theme ‘The Wonders of Cosmos’, transforming the indoor space into a breath-taking night sky adorned with luminous stars and enchanting moon motifs. This immersive experience invites visitors to bask in the magic of the cosmos, creating a truly celestial atmosphere.

Experience the Magic Live

On the cards are jaw-dropping concerts that feature Bollywood and international superstars. This includes chart-topping favourites, some of whom are on the cusp of debuting in India. Some of those include very popular thematic events like CocoMelon Live Experience, Ishaara Sufi Night, Oktoberfest, Mika Singh, Indian Ocean, Piyush Mishra, and much more.

A culinary journey beyond comparison

Embark on a culinary journey featuring Food festival, pop-up restaurants, Michelin-starred chefs, and vibrant fusion festivals, alongside exciting culinary competitions. Savor exquisite options at Ishaara, Eight, Julius, Dobaraa, Poult, Café Ellora, and Fyole, making every experience even more delightful!

A true blue retail revolution

Experience an elevated shopping adventure with exclusive limited-edition collaborations! Choose from a diverse selection of premium international brands, including newly launched names like Zara, H&M Home, Tira, Bose, and Armani Exchange, alongside exquisite festive wear and ethnic brands. Discover stunning options from celebrated labels that capture the essence of tradition and style, making it the ultimate shopping experience for every taste!

Unparalleled Rewards Await

Prepare to be dazzled! Shoppers can join outstanding loyalty programs for a chance to win incredible prizes. One lucky winner could drive home in a brand-new Mahindra Thar, while others might enjoy a lavish 4-night Caribbean vacation. Plus, daily rewards include Yamaha bikes, gold coins, and exclusive staycations at The St. Regis Mumbai!

A monumental moment combining shopping with purpose

In typical Phoenix fashion, this festival offers a wide range of activities beyond just shopping. Shoppers also get to give back to the community each time they shop. In partnership with the Sood Charity Foundation, Phoenix Festival 2024 introduces ‘Shop with Purpose’—a ground-breaking initiative where every purchase contributes to empowering communities across India.

Mayank Lalpuria, senior vice president of marketing at The Phoenix Mills Limited, gives us a glimpse of the grandeur awaited, Every day is a celebration at Phoenix Malls, where we strive to extend experiences that go beyond shopping. This year, we are excited to offer unique, immersive experiences tailored for the entire family. From engaging settings for kids to performances by trendsetting artists and thematic events, every corner of the festival will be a feast for the senses. Prepare to be awed by our larger-than-life décor, designed to create stunning backdrops perfect for capturing unforgettable moments this festive season. And that’s not all—indulge in a variety of lip-smacking, delectable treats as part of our food festival. Discover the magic at Phoenix Malls, where every visit becomes a joyful experience!

Diana Penty, the festival’s brand ambassador, adds: “For me, Phoenix Malls, anywhere in the country, has been a space where I see culture, community, and commerce thriving. I am sure that the Phoenix Festival 2024 is set to be a cultural phenomenon that will bring people together in ways we’ve never seen before. I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting journey!”

Bangalore, India, November 5th, 2024 — Whatfix, a global leader among digital adoption platforms (DAPs), has entered into a strategic alliance agreement with Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP (Deloitte India).

The strategic partnership between Whatfix and Deloitte India combines Whatfix’s advanced digital adoption platform (DAP), simulation tools, and enterprise analytics with Deloitte India’s industry expertise to accelerate digital transformation, enhance user experiences, and optimize technology investments. This collaboration brings together Deloitte’s consulting strengths and Whatfix’s GenAI-powered, data-driven solutions to unlock value from tech stacks and address key challenges such as change management, enterprise agility, ERP optimization, and digital transformation across sectors including finance, consumer goods, technology, healthcare, energy, and public services. Additionally, the alliance will support the next generation of Whatfix experts through upskilling and certification, with 5 certified Whatfix Technology Advocates already trained and 20 more on track.

“In today’s rapidly evolving marketplace, digital adoption is not just an option but a necessity for businesses to stay competitive. Implementing a digital adoption tool requires careful consideration of technology architecture to enable seamless integration with existing systems of the organization. By empowering the workforce with intuitive tools and real-time guidance, businesses not only embrace change but drive it,” said Salman Siddiqui – Partner, Deloitte India. “A digital adoption solution goes beyond staying competitive; it redefines success in a digital-first world, acting as a catalyst for maximizing efficiency, minimizing user frustration, and achieving unparalleled success in the digital transformation journey.”

“Our partnership with Deloitte India represents a shared vision to redefine the user experience through technology,” said Vispi Daver, Chief Revenue Officer at Whatfix. We are committed to empowering organizations to maximize their technology investments while placing the customer at the center of their digital transformation journey. This commitment is propelled by Whatfix’s leading Digital Adoption Platform (DAP) and our expanding product portfolio—including Product Analytics with Enterprise Insights and Mirror—with Deloitte India’s deep industry expertise.”

Vinay Prabhakar, Deloitte South Asia Sales and Alliance Leader, added, “At Deloitte, we believe that true innovation happens when we collaborate, explore, and identify solutions for the ‘art of the possible’. Our alliance with Whatfix combines our expertise with their analytics solutions to co-create a future where technology empowers businesses through data. With this association, our alliance ecosystem grows even stronger, which enables us to tackle the most pressing challenges in the market and drive impact by navigating complex challenges”.

Whatfix recently announced raising in Series E funding. It is the only DAP recognized as a “Customer’s Choice” in Gartner’s Voice of Customer report and has consistently earned “Leader” status by IDC, Forrester, Gartner, and Everest Group. Whatfix has also been listed as the top DAP by Deloitte Technology Fast 500 for three consecutive years. The company’s data-driven product suite, powered by AI, offers an enhanced userized digital experience and supports 700+ customers, including over 80 Fortune 500s globally.

New Delhi, November 5th, 2024: On International Prosthetics and Orthotics Day, the Delhi Chapter of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Association of India (OPAI) hosted a 1-Day Conclave at Hindi Bhawan to emphasize the transformative role of prosthetics and orthotics in empowering people with disabilities. The event advocated for stronger policy-level recognition of prosthetics and orthotics (P&O) expertise in government decision-making, including in the Paralympic selection process.

Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, highlighted the importance of reliable data for understanding disabilities in India, noting that over 95% of registered cases involve 40% or more disability, as per UDID data. “The government is making district-wise data on 21 types of disabilities available for public use, helping drive informed solutions,” he shared. Mr. Aggarwal also outlined efforts to streamline assistive technology distribution, aiming to reduce prosthetic fitment time from 45 days to just 7 days, and to ensure that services are accessible within 100 km for all individuals. He further added, “With India expressing formal interest to host the Olympics and Paralympics in 2036, there is an even greater need to enhance our support systems for para-athletes and bring advanced prosthetic and orthotic care to the forefront.”

Shri Agendra Kumar, Secretary of OPAI Delhi Chapter and Organizing Secretary for IPOD 2024, underscored the need for policy inclusion, stating, “Our professionals play a crucial role in the lives of those they serve. Policy support is essential to our mission of making rehabilitation and mobility accessible to all. There is an urgent need for the insurance sector to include prosthetic and orthotic services, and P&O professionals must be involved at all levels of para-sports.”

Shri Rajesh Das, President of OPAI Delhi, added, “Our work in prosthetics and orthotics restores dignity and independence. With strong government policies and affordable ‘Make in India’ solutions, we can ensure everyone has access to essential care. Together, we are transforming lives.”

Shambhu Kumar Yadav, Vice President of OPAI Delhi, echoed the sentiment: “Prosthetic and orthotic professionals are essential to India’s healthcare framework. Their work empowers individuals and brings dignity through mobility.”

Treasurer Shri Tapas Behera noted, “IPOD 2024 shines a light on the critical role P&O professionals play. By integrating these services into government schemes, we can expand our reach and impact.”

Dr. M C Das National President of OPAI, remarked, “IPOD 2024 is a milestone event in our journey to integrate prosthetic and orthotic care into government schemes, ensuring no one is left behind. This platform amplifies our commitment to accessible, high-quality care and reinforces the vital role P&O professionals play in both healthcare and para-sports.”

The event underscored OPAI’s commitment to advancing inclusion, collaboration, and innovation in rehabilitation services, ensuring every individual can live a life of dignity and independence.

Kochi: The highly anticipated Music Festival ‘OpenAir’ will be held on 15th and 16th November at Crowne Plaza, Kochi, promising an exhilarating experience for electronic dance music fans. This two-day festival will feature an impressive lineup of renowned artists, including Oliver Huntmann, Magdalena, Masha Vincent, Olly Klars, and Silverfox, hailing from countries such as Germany, Brazil, Ukraine, and Dubai. Additionally, Indian Popular Talents Bullzeye and Sequel from Home grown, Dj Sekhar, Akhil Antony, Pulse Modulator and Beat Inspector along with other prominent beat music specialists from Kerala and elsewhere, will perform showcasing a diverse array of talent. The music festival aims to attract young national and international tourists to Kerala, significantly contributing to the region’s tourism sector.

Following the enthusiastic response to the cercle’s show held at Jatayu Earth’s Center, Kollam, in 2022—which garnered over 2.5 million views on YouTube—OpenAir Music Festival is poised to deliver another unforgettable experience for local music enthusiasts. OpenAir known for its music shows organised in Dubai and Goa, aims to present music that is unique, and that caters specifically to Kerala’s vibrant music scene. The festival will also feature a collaboration with Swiggy, offering a variety of food stalls and exhibitions to enhance the attendee experience.

With an expected turnout of approximately 5,000 participants from both within and outside Kerala, the OpenAir Music Festival is set to be a landmark event. The event is organized by Pax Events, and tickets are available on BookMyShow.

Highlighting the significance of this collaboration, Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa, Social Welfare Minister, Government of Karnataka, said, “This partnership represents our commitment to holistic student development in our residential schools. By integrating nutrition education within our existing curriculum, we are nurturing future leaders who understand the importance of healthy living and can drive positive change in their communities. The comprehensive surveys and monitoring by teachers will provide insights into our students’ nutritional status and learning outcomes. This toolkit–based approach will help us make informed decisions about our nutrition programs and academic interventions.”

Covestro (India) Private Limited, a prominent manufacturer of high-performance polymers, has solidified its commitment to sustainable practices with a significant step towards renewable energy adoption at its Greater Noida site. The company has entered into a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with Amplus Solar Shakti Private Limited, underscoring its dedication to environmental responsibility and aligning seamlessly with India’s renewable energy agenda.

Under the terms of the 25-year agreement with Amplus Solar Shakti Private Limited, a subsidiary of Amplus Energy Solutions PTE Ltd (a part of the Gentari Group), Covestro (India) will leverage solar power to fulfil 60% of its annual energy requirements at the Greater Noida facility. This commitment reflects company’s strategic approach towards sustainable investments that yield both environmental benefits and financial returns.

Aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, this initiative of Covestro aims to significantly reduce its carbon footprint while enhancing operational efficiency. The transition underscores company’s vision of advancing towards a circular economy through the utilization of renewable resources, thus minimizing environmental impact.

By harnessing solar energy, Covestro anticipates an annual reduction in CO2 emissions by up to 5,000 tons, harnessing 5.5 MW of electricity annually. This substantial contribution towards company’s sustainability goals strengthens its position as one of the leaders in green energy initiatives, bolstered by robust governmental support for renewable energy integration within India’s energy framework.

The equity investment in Amplus Solar Shakti Private Limited underscores its unwavering commitment to long-term renewable energy solutions. Throughout the project, Amplus Solar Shakti Private Limited will ensure rigorous governance and compliance with legal requirements, maintaining transparency and adhering to regulatory standards.

Endorsement from the Covestro Board of Management highlights the strategic importance of this initiative. The partnership with Amplus Solar Shakti Private Limited exemplifies dual commitment of Covestro to environmental stewardship and fiscal responsibility, setting a benchmark for sustainable practices in the chemical industry and reinforcing its leadership in embracing green energy solutions.

Through the adoption of renewable energy solutions and strategic partnerships, Covestro (India) continues to set the standard for eco-friendly innovation and corporate responsibility.

Love Lingo is gaining significant traction across major streaming platforms, offering an insightful examination of love, societal structures, and cultural nuances. The podcast is ranked No. 2 on Apple Podcasts, reflecting its strong audience engagement. The podcast has also secured a spot in the “New & Noteworthy” section of Apple Podcasts, particularly excelling in the Society & Culture category, indicating its resonance with current listener interests. On Spotify, Love Lingo is prominently featured in the Podcast New Releases section, showcasing its impactful entry into the market.

Hosted by Arsala Qureishi, an accomplished international filmmaker and writer, alongside Jas Sagu, a forward-thinking creative director and content creator, Love Lingo stimulates in-depth and thought-provoking dialogues. The podcast explores intricate cultural dynamics, evolving societal trends, and paths to personal development, fostering discussions that deeply connect with its audience.

As the founders of Blow Broadcast, Arsala, and Jas aim to catalyze meaningful conversations that empower listeners to articulate their own “Love Lingo.” Each episode features insights from various guests, including content creators, relationship coaches, and screenwriters, who share their unique narratives and perspectives. Noteworthy contributors have included Nikhil Taneja, Sudip Sharma, Ekta Dixit, Sathi Roy, and Zervaan Bunshah.

Bengaluru, November 5, 2024: Turkish Technic, a leading provider of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, has recently signed two significant agreements with SunExpress Airlines, a joint venture of Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa. The first agreement encompasses comprehensive Component Pool support, granting SunExpress access to Turkish Technic’s extensive inventory and tailored component solutions. This service will cover both the Boeing 737NG and Boeing 737MAX fleets, ensuring optimal component availability and minimizing aircraft downtime.

Additionally, a second agreement will cover the complete landing gear overhaul and spare operations for SunExpress’ Boeing 737NG fleet. Together with these comprehensive agreements, Turkish Technic supports the operational continuity and fleet readiness of SunExpress, while SunExpress further reinforces its ability to deliver punctual and reliable services to its customers.

Regarding the agreements Mikail Akbulut, CEO and Board Member of Turkish Technic, remarked: “As our long-standing partnership thrives with new agreements, we are pleased to enhance SunExpress’ operational efficiency through our comprehensive component services. These agreements ensure seamless operations for SunExpress’ fleet. We are always delighted to strengthen and expand our long-standing collaboration with SunExpress. Turkish Technic remains committed to delivering world-class MRO solutions, driving operational excellence, and fostering long-lasting business partnerships within the aviation industry.”

Commenting on the continuation of the partnership, Max Kownatzki, CEO of SunExpress, expressed: “Our well-established collaboration with Turkish Technic reflects our commitment to safety and efficiency. The component support and landing gear maintenance services will help us maintain our operational reliability and performance at the highest standards. We believe that our partnership will continue to enhance our operational excellence, ensuring safe and reliable services for our customers.”

With a partnership spanning over decades, Turkish Technic has provided base maintenance, component pool support, and landing gear services to SunExpress. These new agreements not only underscore the enduring collaboration but also reflect Turkish Technic’s commitment to delivering superior MRO services tailored to the evolving needs of its business partners.