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New Delhi, October 23 2024: As global leaders prepare for the COP 29 climate summit, India and Sweden are boosting their collaboration to advance industrial decarbonisation and accelerate the green transition. The India-Sweden Innovation Day 2024 laid crucial groundwork for these endeavours, with both nations reiterating their commitment to report on the progress of their joint green initiatives at COP 30, where the Honourable Prime Ministers of India and Sweden are set to meet.

Delving into the theme, ”Accelerating Green Growth for Inclusive Transition” the 11th edition of the strategic event witnessed a confluence of thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators who are committed to addressing global challenges with cutting-edge innovation.

The event commenced with an engaging session on ‘Co-Creating the Future,’ featuring renowned experts from India and Sweden discussing the role of joint innovation and technological collaboration, allowing both countries to position themselves as key players ahead of the pivotal COP meetings.

Underlining the shared objective and the significant potential of the two nations to emerge as global leaders in innovations, Dr Jitendra Singh, Honourable Minister for Science and Technology, Government of India, said, “Sweden ranks 2nd among 39 European economies and 133 global economies on the Global Innovation Index, while India leads the 10 economies of Central Asia and ranks 39th globally. This highlights the abundant scope for joint research and collaboration between our nations in research, academia, innovation, and industrial entrepreneurship, including startups.

Further reflecting on the collaborative journey between India and Sweden, Chief Guest, H.E. Ebba Busch, Honourable Vice Prime Minister & Minister for Energy and Enterprise, Government of Sweden, said” India, with its young population and fast-growing economy, boasts one of the largest startup ecosystems globally, with over 75,000 startups and 100 unicorns. Alongside Sweden’s global leadership in innovation, this partnership makes us an unbeatable ally as we advance towards our net zero commitments.”

The keynote speeches by H.E. Ebba Busch and Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the significant impact of the India-Sweden partnership in driving industrial decarbonisation. They also outlined a roadmap of immediate actions for COP 29 and a vision for lasting outcomes at COP 30.

Another leadership panel on ‘Green Growth with Inclusive Transition’ included prominent voices from the public and private sectors, focusing on building a green and inclusive economy. The experts also discussed the integration of sustainability into industrial processes and green manufacturing.

From advancing space exploration to enhancing cooperation in biotechnology for sustainable food and fuels, the 11th edition of India-Sweden Innovation Day emphasised the robust alliance between India and Sweden. The event also emphasised the critical roles of the Sweden-India Business Council (SIBC) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in strengthening business ties.

These organisations are crucial in understanding market dynamics, community needs, and industry trends, thereby fostering a deeper connection and synergy between the two countries.

Touching on India’s growing significance on the global stage, especially in innovation and technology, H.E. Tanmaya Lal, Secretary West, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, said, ”India is rapidly rising in the global innovation landscape. Today, we rank among the top nations in critical technology areas such as AI and biotechnology. With the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, India is driving economic growth and global innovation. Our collaboration with Sweden, particularly in technology and green transitions, is crucial for addressing global challenges.’’

Echoing his views and reiterating the commitment of both governments to enhance lives across communities through sustainability, H.E. Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden to India, said, “Team Sweden and our Indian counterparts, including researchers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and policymakers, are working together to achieve a greener future through various initiatives. We are also promoting academic and industrial research, development, and cooperation through jointly funded programs focusing on the circular economy and more.”

Amid the soaring global demand for clean and sustainable energy, countries like Sweden and India are emerging as key players in this transformation. Sweden, renowned for its leadership in renewable energy and sustainability, sees immense potential in partnering with India, a growing force in technology and green solutions, to address pressing energy challenges.

”The Swedish Energy Agency has been actively engaged in India through various collaborations in the public sector, spanning national, city, and state levels. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Green Building Centre, with their market connections and community insights, have been valuable in helping us understand India’s trends and industry requirements,” said Ms. Caroline Asserup, Interim Director General, Swedish Energy Agency.

Recalling the unparalleled growth of India-Sweden Innovations’ Accelerator program since 2009, Mr. Ludvig Lindström, Senior Advisor, Swedish Energy Agency underscored the evolution of the platform into a powerful driver of sustainable innovation.

”Our collaboration with India began in 2009, and over time, these efforts have evolved into the India-Sweden Innovation Accelerator program. As of the last count two years ago, the program has facilitated over 250 joint projects. This shift represents a significant milestone; we are no longer just linking businesses but working together to develop solutions that directly contribute to global climate goals,” said Mr. Lindström.

As businesses around the world increasingly acknowledge the need for sustainable practices, industry experts at the event emphasised the significance of integrating sustainability into core business processes.
“The imperatives of sustainability, growth, and competitiveness are no longer independent of one another. In fact, they are deeply intertwined. Being competitive now means being increasingly sustainable, and without sustainability, businesses will find themselves out of the market. While national governments and agencies are driving the global sustainability agenda, it is ultimately the public and private sectors that will deliver solutions on the ground,” said Mr. Kamal Bali, President & MD, Volvo Group India and Co-Chairman, CII Europe Council.

Experts at the 11th edition of India Sweden Innovation Day also laid emphasis on extending the partnership between the two countries, transitioning from association in research and innovation to jointly designing products and bringing them to market.

”India Sweden Innovation Day has become an institution in the relationship between India and Sweden. We have already moved into collaborating on innovating jointly and it is time to the next step and see how we could look at products and get them out in the market together,” said Mr. Robin Sukhia, Secretary General & CEO, Sweden-India Business Council / Chairman, Scandinavian Chemotech.

Another key highlight of the 11th edition of India Sweden Innovation Day was a comprehensive dialogue to explore the future of local manufacturing, opportunities, innovation and a conducive regulatory framework.

”We have been present in India for almost 50 years, engaging in licensed production. Now, we are taking the next step by establishing a state-of-the-art factory for the Carl Gustaf system. We are the first company in the defence industry to be allowed to own 100% of the factory and this will be very important for us in the future, especially if we are looking to expand the production facility,’’said Mr. Mattias Ringman, Vice President, Head of Finance, BA Dynamics, Saab.

Similarly, referring to the incredible opportunities for foreign businesses in India, Ms. Susanne Pulverer, CEO & CSO, IKEA India, said,” IKEA has had its presence in India for more than 40 years and it is also the biggest market where we support development in climate change, etc. Furthermore, it is important to provide equal opportunities for everyone, so we are committed to creating a gender-diverse organisation with a 50-50 gender ratio. Overall, India is a fantastic country and a great opportunity market, and of course, a growing market.’’

During the ‘Strategic Innovations to Accelerate the Decarbonization of Steel and Cement Industries’ panel, experts from India and Sweden explored innovative approaches to reduce emissions in these vital industrial sectors. The discussion highlighted the need for cutting-edge technologies, sustainable practices, and strengthened collaboration between the two nations. Panelists also emphasised policy reforms and regulatory frameworks to support a smooth and efficient transition toward a decarbonised future for India’s steel and cement industries. In addition, according to experts, platforms like Lead IT have proven to be game changers in this regard.

‘’We are fortunate to have become a founding member of Lead IT in 2019. Currently, Lead IT has 36 members, with 6 out of 10 companies hailing from India. Our focus is on how Lead IT can further bridge the gap between different countries. Lead IT is not just a partnership between India and Sweden, but also involves 8 other countries. Our expectation from Lead IT is to become a strong pillar for technology innovation, technology transfer, and creating roadmaps for these crucial factors,’’ said Mr. Mahendra Singhi, Managing Director and CEO of Dalmia Cement.

In the captivating session on ‘Travel as a Business Accelerator,’ panelists shared insights into the transformative impact of travel on global business dynamics. They analysed how strategic travel planning enables access to new markets, fosters partnerships, and drives accelerated business growth.

In addition, a thought-provoking fireside chat on “Sustainability and Innovation” highlighting real-world examples of successful initiatives. This engaging dialogue offered key insights into how businesses can balance profitability with environmental responsibility in an ever-evolving global landscape.

The India-Sweden Innovation Day 2024 also spotlighted the transformative roles of Artificial Intelligence and Smart Cities. Both India and Sweden, with their substantial capabilities in AI and technology, are well-positioned to lead the global movement towards AI-driven sustainable urbanisation. Additionally, circularity in textiles was another major theme discussed, unlocking new possibilities in textile recycling and waste management.

“Working together, India and Sweden can become global leaders and partners in creating sustainable and innovative solutions for the entire planet. From startups to industry transition, we are pioneering initiatives in sustainable energy, safe transport, circular economy, sustainable cities, AI, and Digital transformation. Let us continue to work together and share ideas,’’ said Mr. Sanjoo Malhotra, CEO of India Unlimited.

The India Sweden Innovation Day 2024 was a resounding success, with participants deliberating on the valuable connections made and the collective commitment to cultivating partnerships that can lead to impactful solutions.

As COP 29 approaches, both countries are set to introduce collaborative frameworks and policies that will drive progress in areas such as green manufacturing, energy efficiency, and sustainable urbanisation. The upcoming year before COP 30 will be crucial for translating these strategies into real-world outcomes that align with global climate ambitions.

by Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

India’s urban population explosion is causing its bigger cities to burst at the seams. Overcrowding, pollution, traffic congestion, and deteriorating infrastructure are the ‘new normal’ – a state of affairs that we have begun to accept as inevitable.

According to the United Nations, about 40% of the Indian population will live in urban areas by 2030. The pressure this puts on housing, transportation, and basic amenities in our cities is immense. Because of these urban ‘growing pains’, many citizens have become disillusioned with their cities and are even considering moving to smaller, less crowded, and less expensive tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

However, there are two catches to this way of thinking – one, most employment opportunities are in our larger cities. Two, the hammer of development is bound to catch up even in the smaller cities. Is there a way for citizens to regain a wholesome, uncluttered lifestyle without abandoning their cities of choice? There is. Integrated townships are a viable solution. But before we get into that, let’s first examine the real-time challenges that our cities increasingly face.

Traffic Congestion

India’s cities are notorious for their traffic woes. In cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, residents spend hours in gridlocked traffic every day. According to a 2021 report by TomTom, Bengaluru ranked as the sixth-most congested city in the world, with commuters spending an average of 71% extra travel time during rush hour. This congestion takes a toll not only on the economy but also on the well-being of urban dwellers, since long commutes lead to increased stress, reduced productivity, and poor mental health.

Pollution and Environmental Degradation

Air pollution is another pressing issue in Indian cities. The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks several Indian cities, including Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow, among the most polluted globally. In 2020, air pollution caused an estimated 1.7 million deaths in India, according to a study published in The Lancet. The over-reliance on private vehicles, combined with unchecked industrial emissions has led to worsening air quality, making it hazardous for people to live and work in densely populated urban environments.

Overcrowding and Infrastructure Strain

With the growing influx of people into cities, housing and infrastructure are stretched to the limit. Many Indian cities are ill-equipped to handle their burgeoning populations – resulting in cramped living conditions, inadequate water supply, and frequent power outages. This overcrowding exacerbates social and health issues, leading to an overall decline in quality of life.

The Solution – Integrated Townships

Amid these escalating challenges, integrated townships are the most viable alternative to traditional urban housing models. These large-scale developments are self-sustaining communities that combine residential, commercial, recreational, and educational facilities in one comprehensive layout. Unlike conventional city apartments, which are often isolated and disconnected from essential amenities, integrated townships provide a more balanced and convenient lifestyle.

Integrated Townships – A Brief History

Integrated townships began emerging in India during the 1980s and 1990s. Even before that, cities like Jamshedpur – founded in 1907 by the Tata Group to support their workforce – served as early examples of self-contained, self-sustaining communities. Jamshedpur was among the pioneers of integrated urban living in India where residential spaces were developed alongside recreational spaces like parks and essential services such as schools and medical facilities.

Chandigarh, planned by Le Corbusier in the 1950s, is another prime example of a development plan where housing and public facilities were created alongside commercial business centres. However, these were entire cities with their own municipalities. The concept of integrated townships – large residential complexes developed along with retail, office, civic and lifestyle developments – started gaining momentum in the 2000s.

Today, these townships have emerged as the single most transformative solution, offering a holistic living environment that promotes sustainability, convenience, and a better quality of life. They have become even more relevant if we consider the increasing chaos of modern city life.

Convenience and Reduced Commuting

One of the biggest advantages of integrated townships is the proximity to workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centres, and entertainment options. By reducing the need for long commutes, these developments save residents time and money while alleviating traffic congestion in major cities. According to one report, more than 80% of homebuyers in metropolitan areas now prefer housing projects which are within a 10-kilometer radius of their workplaces.

Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly

Integrated townships are also designed with sustainability in mind. Green spaces, efficient waste management systems, rainwater harvesting, and renewable energy sources are increasingly becoming standard features of these developments. Integrated townships with eco-friendly infrastructure reduce carbon footprints and command a higher premium over non-sustainable developments. Moreover, by centralizing resources and infrastructure, integrated townships can reduce the strain on municipal services, thus promoting a more sustainable and resilient urban ecosystem.

Improved Quality of Life

Integrated townships prioritize the well-being of their residents by offering a range of recreational and wellness facilities. From parks and sports complexes to community centres and healthcare services, these projects are designed to cater to all age groups and lifestyle preferences. They foster a sense of community and safety, with round-the-clock security and controlled access points ensuring a secure living environment.

Moreover, the availability of schools and educational institutions within the township means that families do not need to send their children far from home, reducing stress and providing a better work-life balance. Many leading minds in the real estate industry have recognized integrated townships as the future of housing, particularly in countries experiencing rapid urbanization like India.

Not surprisingly, integrated townships outperformed standalone residential projects in both price appreciation and rental yields because of the superior convenience and amenities they offer. Furthermore, the demand for integrated townships is not limited to the residential segment.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more businesses have realized how important it is to have their operations closer to where their employees live. As a result, the commercial real estate segment is also seeing a surge in demand for office spaces within township developments, thanks to the growing trend of the ‘walk-to-work’ lifestyle.

Towards a Better Residential Experience

As India’s cities continue to expand, the traditional model of urban housing is proving to be increasingly untenable and homebuyers now seek alternatives that offer convenience, sustainability, and a better quality of life. Integrated townships are the answer, and will therefore account for more and more Indian residential spaces in the years to come.

Mumbai, 23 October 2024: Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the world’s largest jewellery retailers, has launched special offers for Diwali. Customers will receive guaranteed gold coins with every purchase, and a gold rate protection plan to safeguard against price changes. These offers are available on gold, diamond, and precious stone jewellery.

The festive offers were unveiled by Bollywood star and Malabar Gold & Diamonds brand ambassador, Anil Kapoor, at a special event held in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The event was attended by O. Asher, Managing Director of India Operations, N. K. Jishad, Regional Head (North), and K.P. Anees Basheer, Zonal Head (North), along with other dignitaries.

MP Ahammed, Chairman, Malabar Group, said, “As a jeweller that prioritises customer satisfaction, we are delighted to introduce these exclusive Diwali offers. We aim to make the festive season even more special for our customers by offering them unparalleled benefits and an exceptional shopping experience. Our success in becoming a leading jeweller globally is a testament to the continued trust and support of our valued customers.”

The Diwali offers, valid at all Malabar Gold & Diamonds showrooms until November 3rd, include gold coins for purchases starting from : buyers of gold jewellery receive 200 mg, those purchasing Precious, Uncut, and Polki jewellery get 300 mg, and diamond jewellery buyers receive 400 mg gold coins. The gold rate protection scheme allows customers to book jewellery with just a 10% down payment and choose the lower rate between the booking or purchase date.

Additionally, customers can enjoy new designs while exchanging old gold without any depreciation in value. Special ‘Buy Counters’ with exclusive discounted jewellery collections have also been introduced to further elevate the Diwali shopping experience.

Electric vehicles are no longer just a futuristic concept. The electric mobility (e-mobility) is fast growing fueled by environmental goals, consumer demand, and technological advancements. By 2030, governments and industries aim to have millions of electric vehicles (EVs) on the roads, along with robust charging infrastructure. As convenient and environmentally friendly as EVs are, they bring along significant cyber security challenges, which if left unaddressed, could pose serious threats to the safety of EV users and the overall security of connected systems.

India’s electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing a significant turning point. on a high note for the Indian EV industry, achieving record sales across various vehicle segments and marking the best-ever 12-month performance. With 1.67 million units sold, FY2023 saw an impressive 41% year-on-year increase compared to 1.18 million EVs in FY2022. Notably, retail sales in March 2024 reached a new monthly high of 208,410 units, marking the first time India’s EV sector surpassed the 200,000 monthly sales milestone. This growth is largely attributed to the government’s Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme, which encourages consumers to transition to EVs.

Countries across the globe are investing heavily in the production and distribution of EVs. Charging stations, the backbone of e-mobility infrastructure, are expanding to meet this growing demand. According to estimates, over one million publicly accessible charging stations will be required globally by 2030 to meet demand.

The digitalization of this infrastructure—spanning everything from smartphone-based payment systems to vehicle data communication—introduces an interconnected web of data flows between vehicles, users, and systems. This digital landscape, however, also exposes EVs and their infrastructure to a host of cyber risks.

1. The Cyber security Threat LandscapeAPIs: A Gateway for Cybercriminals
   The rapid growth of API usage in automotive ecosystems makes it one of the prime attack vectors. In 2022, API-based attacks increased by up to 380%, according to a Global Automotive Cybersecurity Report. APIs connect charging stations, vehicles, and mobile applications, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking to disrupt services, steal data, or launch ransomware attacks.
2. Charging Station Vulnerabilities
   Public EV charging stations, especially those providing fast-charging services, present potential vulnerabilities. Researchers have demonstrated attacks like Brokenwire, which uses radio signals to disrupt the charging process. In another high-profile incident, hackers exploited infotainment systems to push explicit content onto charging station screens, exposing users to inappropriate material and underscoring the weak security posture of many of these systems.
3. Payment Systems and Data Theft
   The integration of digital payment systems into charging infrastructure opens the door to financial crimes. Cybercriminals can intercept and exploit sensitive payment data, leading to identity theft or unauthorized transactions. Malware and ransomware attacks targeting the underlying software systems of these stations could halt operations, leading to service disruptions and financial losses for users.
4. Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Attacks
   With the rise of V2G systems, where electric vehicles exchange power with the grid, the threat surface expands. Cyberattacks aimed at manipulating the V2G ecosystem could result in power outages, widespread grid disruptions, or financial losses through unauthorized transactions. The consequences of such attacks could be devastating for energy providers and customers alike.

Securing the EV Ecosystem: Key Considerations

Given the diversity of components within the EV ecosystem, a comprehensive security strategy must be applied at every layer. From vehicles to chargers, mobile apps, and the broader grid, all elements need robust cybersecurity defenses to mitigate risks effectively.

1. API Security
   Since APIs are widely used in the e-mobility ecosystem, security teams must focus on securing API communications. This includes implementing encryption, authentication mechanisms, and real-time monitoring to detect and respond to malicious activity. Strong API security policies can prevent unauthorized access and mitigate risks associated with data interception.
2. Firmware and Software Updates
   Continuous monitoring and regular software updates are critical for securing EV infrastructure. Updating firmware in charging stations and onboard vehicle systems can help close security gaps and prevent the exploitation of known vulnerabilities. However, updates must be performed securely, ideally using encrypted over-the-air (OTA) methods, to ensure the integrity of the software.
3. Cloud Security and SBOM
   With much of the data and analytics for EVs and charging stations processed in the cloud, implementing strong cloud security measures is essential. Security teams must create a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) to track software components and ensure transparency in software development and deployment. This allows for quick identification and remediation of vulnerabilities in third-party software.
4. Zero-Trust Architecture
   Adopting a zero-trust security model ensures that no user, device, or system is trusted by default. This approach is particularly effective for large, complex ecosystems like e-mobility, where there are multiple access points to the network. Zero-trust architecture ensures that only authenticated and authorized users can access critical systems, reducing the risk of breaches.
5. Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS)
   Implementing IDS/IPS at both the network and device levels allows for real-time monitoring and automatic responses to suspicious activity. This proactive defense mechanism helps prevent attacks before they escalate and can detect anomalies in charging station operations or vehicle communications that indicate an attempted breach.
6. Data Privacy and Protection
   Given the sensitive data involved, such as payment information and location data, EV operators must prioritize data privacy. Encryption and secure authentication methods should be employed to protect user data at all times. Compliance with international data protection regulations, such as GDPR, is also crucial to ensure users’ privacy rights are maintained.
7. Supply Chain Security
   The supply chain for EV components is vast, involving hardware and software from multiple vendors. To mitigate risks, organizations must work with trusted suppliers and conduct thorough security audits to identify potential vulnerabilities. Robust supply chain security measures are essential to prevent the introduction of compromised hardware or software into the EV ecosystem.

Collaboration for a Secure Future

As the automotive and energy sectors converge with the digital world, collaboration is key to building a secure future for e-mobility. Governments, private companies, and cybersecurity experts must work together to develop robust regulations, security standards, and industry best practices. These standards, including ISO 15118 for secure communication between vehicles and chargers, provide a strong foundation for cybersecurity in this rapidly evolving field.

Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) also play a critical role in securing e-mobility by offering continuous monitoring, threat detection, and response measures. MSSPs help organizations comply with regulatory frameworks such as ISO/SAE 21434 for automotive cybersecurity, ensuring that all systems in the EV ecosystem remain secure.

India – Golden Abodes, a real estate developer with an integrated prime residential and commercial offering has announced the launch of two remarkable projects in Goa: Anantam Signature in Dona Paula and Avisa in Goa Velha. Both developments aim to provide exceptional living experiences in scenic locales, combining luxury, comfort, and natural beauty. Golden Abodes is also unveiling Anantam Signature, an exclusive luxury project in Dona Paula. This development epitomizes coastal living, featuring extravagant sea-view apartments that provide 180-degree panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. With over 40 amenities spread across 70,000 sq. ft., Anantam Signature seamlessly blends luxury with stunning natural surroundings.

“We believe Anantam Signature will set a new benchmark for luxury real estate in Goa,” remarked Amar Shah, Co-founder of Golden Abodes. “Our goal is to create an unparalleled living experience that combines convenience, exclusivity, and the beauty of nature. This project is for individuals and families who seek a home that reflects their aspirations while ensuring a solid investment for the future.”

Prices for Anantam Signature apartments range from making it a sought-after choice for discerning buyers. The development will feature a host of ultra-premium specifications, including home automation, and top-of-the-line finishes like Italian marble flooring and Toto sanitary fittings. Completion is expected by December 2025, with flexible payment plans that cater to the needs of buyers. Avisa, strategically located along the serene Siridao River, offers residents breathtaking views and a tranquil environment. Designed to provide a unique blend of comfortable living and community amenities, Avisa spans 10 acres of lush landscape, with more than 70% open space dedicated to recreational use. The project features over 25 lifestyle amenities, ensuring a fulfilling lifestyle for families and individuals alike.

“Our vision with Avisa was to create a residential community that allows residents to immerse themselves in Goa’s rich culture while enjoying modern amenities,” said Gaurav Mittal, Founder of Golden Abodes. “We are committed to enhancing the quality of life for our residents, and Avisa exemplifies this promise with its exceptional design and natural beauty.”

Prices for apartments at Avisa start from making it an attractive option for buyers seeking an affordable yet premium living experience. The project is scheduled for completion by December 2026, and a straightforward booking process ensures that prospective buyers can secure their future homes with ease—requiring just 20% on booking and the remainder linked to construction milestones. Both projects reflect Golden Abodes’ commitment to delivering exceptional quality and thoughtful design in Goa’s vibrant real estate market. With Anantam Signature and Avisa, the company aims to enhance the living experience for residents while celebrating the unique cultural and natural heritage of Goa.

BENGALURU, OCT. 22, 2024 — global cloud leader in AI-powered experience orchestration, today announced that it has been Certified™ as a Great Place to Work®. Overall, 90% of Genesys employees surveyed said the company is a great place to work, a two-percentage-point increase from the previous year, and 33 percentage points higher than the average US-based company. Earned across 14 countries, Genesys believes this certification illustrates its commitment to ensuring its employees feel seen, heard and understood, creating a culture of inclusion that fosters innovation, increases value for customers and drives organisational success.

This year, Genesys was certified in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hungary, India, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, United Kingdom and the United States. Notably, Genesys has been named a Great Place to Work for eight consecutive years in India, out of which they are ranked four times in Top 100 in India’s Great Workplaces (Ranked 34th in 2024, Ranked 90th in 2023, Ranked 21st in 2018 and Ranked 44th in 2017). The company was also named a Best Place to Work for Women for the last four years in a row. In addition to this, India also featured in Best Workplaces to Work in IT and IT-BPM six times in a row from 2017 till 2022. India also bagged the Best Workplaces for Millennials (Top 50) in 2024.

The survey highlighted that in India –

• 90% of employees feel like they can be themselves at Genesys.

• 96% of employees felt that they are able to take time off from work when it’s necessary.

• 90% of employees want to work at Genesys for a long time.

• 96% of employees are proud to tell others that they work at Genesys.
• 96% of employees believe that when they join Genesys, they are made to feel welcome.

“Being recognised by employees in every region as a Great Place to Work is powerful validation of our commitment to creating an inclusive, empathetic workplace throughout our worldwide locations,” said Eva Majercsik, chief people officer at Genesys. “At Genesys, we believe that when our employees feel valued and empowered, they bring that same energy to every customer interaction. This recognition is a testament to the collaborative spirit and empathy that defines our culture.”

Other highlights from the global survey include:

• 95% of employees felt that they are able to take time off from work when it’s necessary.
• 95% of employees believe that when they join Genesys, they are made to feel welcome.
• 93% of employees are proud to tell others that they work at Genesys.
• 91% of employees believe people care about each other at Genesys.
• 90% of employees feel like they can be themselves at Genesys.

In addition, 96% of Genesys employees globally feel they’re treated fairly, regardless of sexual orientation, race, gender or age. Genesys believes these results reflect its commitment to having an inclusive workforce made up of talented individuals who are as diverse as the markets they serve.

Bengaluru, 22nd October, 2024: ANSR, the market leader in setting up global centers for the world’s top enterprises, is thrilled to launch the ANSR Foundation. Starting with a series of programs for children and young adults, the foundation’s long-term goal is to impact economic disparity and gender equality while fostering a new generation of technology trailblazers.

Since its founding, ANSR has created over 150,000 jobs in India and brought in more than $2B in investments. The company has a strong track record of increasing participation of women in the workforce and to creating a more equitable and inclusive tech ecosystem.

“ANSR Foundation is committed to creating a world where we can dismantle barriers for underserved communities. Through the Foundation we are taking impactful steps to empower today’s youth and both men and women by providing them with scholarships and resources to pursue education in technology, regardless of background and gender,” said Lalit Ahuja, CEO of ANSR.

The ANSR Foundation is embarking on a variety of programs, including:

STEM-dedicated classrooms: Engaging classrooms with STEM-focused programs and teachers have been set up in selected Bengaluru schools in collaboration with NGO partners Mantra4Change and Let’s Do Some Good. This hands-on approach aims to provide young people with a more innovative future and the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the tech industry.

Scholarships: ANSR Foundation has recently with the prestigious Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani and has created scholarships and a PhD fellowship for students, a commitment spearheaded by ANSR CEO and BITS Pilani alumni Lalit Ahuja.

ANSR Gives Back: Volunteer programs currently encourage ANSR employees and their families to come together and engage with communities in a meaningful way. Other upcoming programs include mentorship guidance and support from experienced staff alongside internships within the organization for aspiring professionals. The foundation will offer training programs to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in competitive tech careers.

The ANSR Foundation places special emphasis on addressing socio-cultural gaps and building pathways to success for talented individuals. “Access to opportunity goes beyond education. It’s only the starting point to creating an environment to feel supported and inspired.” said Ahuja. “The problem-solving and workforce-ready skills young people gain is what prepares them with the capabilities to make informed decisions about their futures.”

National: Playboy India Ventures proudly announces the opening of its flagship store on the ground floor of Bunny Bar, Koramangala, Bangalore. This premium café is set to transform the gourmet food and beverage landscape in India, offering unique experiences that combine innovation, health, and high-quality craftsmanship.

The highlight of the café’s menu is the Five-Colored (Yellow , Red, Pink, Blue , Black) Lattes, created from natural, healthy ingredients. These vibrant, visually striking beverages are 100% caffeine-free, making them a wholesome and refreshing alternative to traditional hot drinks. Complementing these lattes, the café also serves artisanal coffees made from a premium blend of mild roasted beans sourced directly from Chikmagalur farms, renowned for their top-quality coffee.

The café takes pride in its freshly prepared food, with offerings like hand-stretched pizzas, pasta, and wood-fired sandwiches, all crafted in-house. For early risers, the café also offers a delightful breakfast menu, including smoothie bowls and fresh fruit platters, perfect for those seeking a nutritious start to their day.

Rohit Malhotra, CEO of Jay Jay and Kwality Restaurants Pvt. Ltd., shared, “We’re excited to offer something truly distinct in India’s café culture. Our fresh, gourmet food and innovative beverages are designed to cater to health-conscious individuals and food lovers alike. We are not competing with other coffee chains; instead, we focus on delivering a premium experience that’s not available elsewhere.”

Following the success of this flagship location, the company plans to expand the concept to 5-6 more locations across India in the near future.

Jay Jay and Kwality Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. is the master license holder for Playboy Venues in India.

Mumbai, 22 October 2024: Sennheiser, a renowned leader in audio technology, showcased various audio solutions at Broadcasting India 2024, a top infotainment technology event. The biggesty highlight of Sennheiser’s product was the newly launched Spectera, the world’s first bidirectional wideband solution.

Spectera leverages groundbreaking WMAS (Wireless Multichannel Audio Systems) technology to reduce the complexity of wireless systems, while enhancing capabilities, streamlining workflows, and offering comprehensive remote control and monitoring. Instead of many individual 200 kHz narrowband RF carrier frequencies, we use a single wideband RF channel for audio transmission – bidirectional transmission of audio and control data, to be more exact.

Over 700+ attendees at Sennheiser’s booth explored the Spectera ecosystem, engaging in hands-on demonstrations with the engineering team. The ecosystem addresses common challenges faced by users of wireless audio systems, simplifying frequency coordination, rack cabling, and system footprint. By replacing multiple wireless mic receivers and IEM transmitters with a single Base Station, which, in a single rack unit with 32 inputs and 32 outputs, replaces a rack-full of wireless mic receivers and IEM transmitters. An entire production could be accommodated in a single wideband RF channel (6 or 8 MHz). The lower footprint continues to the bodypacks, which handle mic/line and IEM/IFB requirements simultaneously. Additionally, it offers comprehensive remote control and monitoring capabilities, including audio adjustments, IEM and mic level control, RF health monitoring, and more.

Spectera represents a total shift in control and monitoring: It doesn’t just offer a back channel, but continuous two-way communication throughout, for truly complete remote control. Via the permanent control data stream, audio settings can be adjusted, IEM and mic levels adapted, RF health and battery status monitored, and much more.

Spectera delivers signature Sennheiser digital audio quality for mics, instruments and IEMs, employing different application-optimised audio codecs, which are all internally processed with 32-bit-float precision.

Eleven Audio Link Modes allow for selectable control of audio quality, latency, channel count, and operating range for every audio link, flexibly throughout a production. The operator can always use the RF channel to the maximum, either by giving fewer audio links a high quality or by allowing more links and reducing the quality accordingly

Spectera’s wideband solution is ideal for large productions in the touring, broadcasting, or theatre fields, or in any other area that requires multichannel audio setups. It satisfies the customers’ key desires and needs regarding ease of use, operational reliability and flexibility. It minimal hardware significantly reduces frequency coordination, redundancy, and the flexibility of an ecosystem that grows with your needs.

Vipin Pulgania, Sales Director – Pro Audio & Country Manager at Sennheiser India said, “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response to our Spectera at Broadcasting India,”. He further added “This innovative solution offers exceptional ease of use, reliability, and flexibility, making it ideal for large-scale productions across various industries. With Spectera, we’re providing a powerful tool that simplifies wireless audio workflows and opens up new creative possibilities, such as immersive 3D audio. We plan to continuously expand the Spectera ecosystem with new hardware, software features, and services.”

Sennheiser’s participation in Broadcasting India 2024 also included offerings like D6K, EW-DX, Shotgun microphones, Broadcast headsets, Profile USB microphone and recently launched MD421 Kompakt microphone. These innovative products, designed to deliver unparalleled immersive experiences, solidified the company’s position as a leader in the audio industry.

Bengaluru, October 22, 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.