HCLTech to lead the charge in AI conversations at World Summit AI 2024

NEW YORK and NOIDA, India, Oct 8, 2024—HCLTech, a leading global technology company, announces its participation as a gold sponsor at the World Summit AI, taking place on October 9 and 10, 2024, at the Taets Art & Event Park in Amsterdam. The company aims to play a pivotal role in shaping discussions around AI-driven digital transformation and enterprise innovation.

HCLTech will be represented by key leaders, including Vijay Guntur, Chief Technology Officer and Head of Ecosystems, and Alan Flower, Executive Vice President and Head of AI & Cloud Native Labs.

During the two-day summit, HCLTech will engage attendees through the following thought-provoking sessions:

AI that delivers business impact — Fireside Chat with Vijay Guntur  This session will explore how enterprises can develop effective business cases for AI, scale implementations and manage change while addressing crucial aspects such as responsible AI, culture and security.

Implementing GenAI – from idea to production — a workshop hosted by Alan Flower  In this engaging and experiential workshop, participants will learn how to convert their GenAI ideas into GenAI-enabled business solutions that can swiftly transition into scalable production.

In addition to these sessions, HCLTech will facilitate in-person meetings and lab sessions in a dedicated space at the venue.

“We are excited to participate in the World Summit AI and look forward to meaningful dialogues on enterprise AI and how organizations can leverage AI at scale to drive value stream innovation,” said Vijay Guntur, Chief Technology Officer and Head of Ecosystems, HCLTech.

“Our participation in the World Summit AI reflects our commitment to AI and GenAI, as we best equip leading enterprises with the strategies they need to effectively navigate and accelerate their AI journeys,” said Alan Flower, Executive Vice President and Head of AI & Cloud Native Labs, HCLTech.

On the sidelines of the summit, HCLTech will host exclusive partner roundtables, providing a platform for in-depth discussions on compelling AI topics.

Bhowanipur 75 Palli Unveils Stunning Pandal for Diamond Jubilee: Tobuo Tomar Kache Aamar Hridoy Theme

Kolkata, 8th October, 2024: Bhowanipur 75 Palli a renowned Durga Puja committee in South Kolkata, has officially inaugurated its magnificent pandal for this year’s Diamond Jubilee celebration. The pandal, designed by renowned artist Shivshankar Das, is a breathtaking masterpiece that captures the essence of the theme, “Tobuo Tomar Kache Aamar Hridoy”.

The rustic aesthetic of the pandal, constructed using eco-friendly materials, is a testament to the committee’s commitment to sustainability. The intricate details and craftsmanship of the pandal are sure to awe visitors and leave a lasting impression. The centerpiece of the pandal is the beautifully crafted idol of Goddess Durga, designed by world-renowned artist Sanatan Dinda. The idol’s intricate details and vibrant colors bring the theme to life. In the words of poet Jibanananda Das, “Yet my heart is with you,” resonating with the sentiments of Kolkata’s residents, who find comfort and identity in their vibrant city.

Speaking to the media, Mr. Subir Das, Club Secretary said, “ Today marks not just a celebration of our Diamond Jubilee, but a reaffirmation of our love for Kolkata and its rich cultural tapestry. The theme ‘Tobuo Tomar Kache Aamar Hridoy’ embodies our heartfelt connection to the city, reminding us of the vibrant community we are part of. As we move forward, we remain committed to blending tradition with innovation and giving back to the community that has nurtured us for 60 years.”

He added, “Come, let’s explore our beautiful city of joy by walking through its lanes and bylanes to discover another Kolkata within our very own. Let’s savor its deep-rooted culture, heritage, food, architectural wonders.” ‎

In addition to the grand celebrations, Bhowanipur 75 Palli is committed to social responsibility. A portion of the donations collected during Durga Puja is dedicated to various social initiatives throughout the year. These efforts include complimentary health check-ups, awareness programs on socio-economic issues, and blood, body, and eye donation camps. The committee also distributes clothing to the underprivileged and educational kits to children in need, reinforcing its dedication to community welfare.

Recordent Launches Zoho Books Connector, Transforming AR Automation for SMEs

Hyderabad, 07th October 2024: Recordent, India’s leading accounts receivable (AR) automation platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), has enhanced its platform with the addition of the Zoho Books Connector, designed to streamline and automate AR processes for businesses across India. This integration aligns perfectly with Recordent’s mission to provide SMEs with innovative tools that foster financial resilience and sustainable growth in a competitive marketplace.

Following the success of the Tally plug-in, this new addition will help SMEs to transform their collections and focus on growth. While Zoho Books is a popular accounting ERP platform offering robust solutions for invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting, the Recordent Zoho Books connector provides an added layer of specialized AR management. It empowers businesses to optimize collections, assess credit risks, and manage cash flows effectively—going beyond the capabilities of traditional accounting functions. By leveraging Recordent’s AR automation capabilities alongside Zoho Books, businesses gain a comprehensive view of their financial landscape, enhancing their ability to manage and forecast cash flows, address late payments proactively, and improve overall financial health.

The Zoho Books Connector offers significant benefits for SMEs, including real-time data synchronization that automates the syncing of invoices, payments, and customer data, eliminating manual entry and reducing errors. It enhances collection efficiency by automating payment reminders and account statements, saving time and resources. Additionally, the integration provides insights into outstanding receivables for timely actions like issuing legal notices and improves credit risk management to better assess customer creditworthiness and mitigate delayed payments. Overall, centralized financial management streamlines workflows and empowers SMEs to manage all operations on a unified platform.

Mr. Winny Patro, CEO and Co-Founder, Recordent, stated, “This integration with Zoho Books is a significant step forward in our mission to empower SMEs. It not only simplifies AR and collections management but also provides businesses with a holistic view of their financial health, enabling them to optimize cash flow and mitigate risks.”

Recordent’s integration with Zoho Books is designed for growing businesses that rely on efficient AR processes to drive growth and success. SMEs can now automate their collections, gain deeper insights into their receivables, and protect their businesses from credit risks with ease.

WILL Launches the ‘Shakti Women Leadership Program’ with Academic Partner UPES

India, 7 October 2024: Work-Integrated Learning for Leadership (WILL), in partnership with UPES, a multidisciplinary university, is proud to announce the inauguration of the Shakti Women Leadership Program, aimed at empowering women professionals in the energy sector to develop their leadership skills and accelerate their career growth.

The inauguration event saw the presence of distinguished guests, including Dr. R. Meenakshi Sundaram, IAS (Secretary, Energy, Housing, and Planning of the Uttarakhand Government), who delivered a keynote address on the importance of women leadership in the modern world. Notable attendees included Mr. PC Dhyani, MD of Power Transmission Corporation of Uttarakhand Ltd. (PTCUL).

The launch was graced by several distinguished HR professionals from the energy sector. Key HR guests included Mr. Ashish Jain, ED-HR of Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd. (UJVNL); Mr. Jitendra Singh, Deputy Chief Personnel Officer, Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL); Mr. Pranay Kaparwan, Officer Personnel UPCL and Mr. Sunil Kumar, Joint GM of Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (UREDA). These HR leaders have played a crucial role in selecting and encouraging participants from their respective organisations, to join the leadership development program. The inaugural cohort comprises 12 participants from UJVNL, 8 from UPCL, 12 from PTCUL, and 2 from UREDA, reflecting a strong commitment to empowering women leaders across the energy sector.

The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Ram Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of UPES, followed by a lamp lighting ceremony symbolising the illumination of knowledge and empowerment. Professors, Dr. Antarpreet Singh and Dr. Debjani Mukherjee provided a comprehensive overview of the Shakti program’s objectives and structure, highlighting its focus on empowering women leaders in various industries.

The Shakti Women Leadership Program is designed to provide a work-integrated learning experience for women leaders, combining both online and offline modules. will learn self-discovery techniques to convert potential into performance, leverage strengths for career growth, and navigate complex organisational dynamics. The course focuses on leading change in the age of AI, building strong communication and negotiation skills, and mastering workforce management across generations. Additionally, they will develop data-driven decision-making capabilities and gain insights into ethical AI adoption to shape a future-ready identity.

The program offers a holistic approach to leadership development, fostering the skills necessary for women leaders to thrive in their professional journeys. The program will feature guest lectures, interactive sessions, and workshops conducted by prominent women leaders in various fields. It will be delivered through a blend of online sessions (70%) and physical immersion experiences (30%), totalling 40 hours of learning. The program will end with a convocation ceremony.

Dr. Antarpreet Singh, Director (Academics) Executive Education, WILL Education and Program Chair said, “Shakti, The Women Leadership Program, designed by WILL, in collaboration with UPES, takes a holistic approach to sharpen women leadership skills at personal, interpersonal, and strategic levels. With a focus on AI-driven transformation and data-driven decision-making, the program enhances participants’ behavioural competencies, empowering women leaders to excel in their careers and lead through change effectively.”

École Ducasse Named World and Europe’s Best Culinary Training Institution 2024

7th October 2024: École Ducasse is proud to announce that it has been awarded both the World’s Best Culinary Training Institution 2024 and Europe’s Best Culinary Training Institution 2024 by the prestigious World Culinary Awards for the second year in a row. These accolades affirm École Ducasse’s position as a global leader in culinary education, cementing its reputation for delivering unmatched excellence in the edible arts.

The World Culinary Awards, now in its 5th year, are globally recognized as a prestigious platform celebrating excellence in the industry. The awards, voted for by culinary professionals, media, and consumers worldwide, highlight École Ducasse’s unwavering commitment to shaping the next generation of culinary experts. A key factor that sets École Ducasse apart, leading to this repeated recognition, is its faculty which includes World Champions, Meilleurs Ouvriers de France (Best Craftsmen), and other renowned industry professionals. This team of exceptional educators, coupled with their commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovations like AI, brings unparalleled expertise and experience, ensuring that students are trained to the highest standards of gastronomic excellence. This recognition underscores the institution’s ability to combine a cutting-edge approach to cooking education with a pioneering spirit, fostering creativity, innovation, and skill at the highest level.

Karine Hyon-Vintrou, Managing Director of École Ducasse, expressed her pride in the institution’s achievements: “Receiving these two awards for the second consecutive year is a testimony of the passion and commitment of our entire team. At École Ducasse, we are driven by a mission to not only train chefs, but to nurture chef-entrepreneurs who can make a positive impact on the world through their creativity and leadership in the global culinary landscape.”

Global Expansion: École Ducasse’s International Reach
École Ducasse’s award-winning programs are delivered across its prestigious campuses, including the iconic Paris Campus, which has become synonymous with culinary excellence. The institution’s influence continues to expand internationally, with its network of schools now spanning across France, Thailand, India, the Philippines and most recently, the United Arab Emirates. École Ducasse has opened last year the École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio, its first foray into the Middle East offering aspiring chefs and passionate amateurs in the region a unique opportunity to experience École Ducasse’s renowned programs, bringing world-class culinary training to the vibrant cultural hub of Abu Dhabi.

École Ducasse’s international reach is further strengthened by strategic partnerships with renowned institutions such as Gato Dumas in Latin America and USIL in Peru. These collaborations ensure that the institution’s philosophy of culinary excellence continues to inspire students worldwide, helping to shape the global future of gastronomy.

Radisson Bengaluru City Center hosts GReaT conversations on World Tourism Day

GRT Hotels & Resorts successfully hosted the latest edition of their signature GReaT Conversations series, this time at Radisson Bengaluru City Centre. The event saw an impressive gathering of corporate procurement heads and industry leaders, engaging in a thought-provoking panel discussion that revolved around travel trends, sustainability, and diversity in the workplace.

The evening was highlighted by a keynote address from Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, who shed light on the group’s ground-breaking sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental footprint across all their properties.

“At GRT Hotels, sustainability isn’t just a practice, it’s a core value embedded in every decision we make,” said Mr. Vikram Cotah. “From energy conservation and responsible sourcing to our commitment towards the community, we believe that hospitality must evolve into a harmonious balance between business and the environment.”

Additionally, Mr. Jit Bose, Vice President of Commercial, emphasized the importance of corporate responsibility in adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of the travel industry. He remarked:“The future of travel lies in responsible growth, and businesses that prioritize sustainability, diversity, and innovation will thrive.”

The event was highly attended by corporate leaders and served as a platform for fruitful discussions on the evolving needs of the corporate travel sector.

National Unity Day Online Pledge 2024 with Certificate by Udaan Youth Club

The National Unity Day Online Pledge 2024 is a nationwide initiative to celebrate National Unity Day, paying tribute to the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. Participants from all walks of life are invited to pledge their commitment to fostering unity, inclusivity, and responsible citizenship. This program emphasizes the importance of national integration and solidarity in realizing the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

About the Organization
Udaan Youth Club (UYC) is a self-organized youth organization led by Indian Social Worker SR Aman Kumar, dedicated to bringing about social change through ICT, education, and youth engagement. UYC promotes the values of kindness, eco-consciousness, peace, and cultural inclusivity, with a mission to contribute to achieving the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on a global scale.

About the Program
The National Unity Day Online Pledge 2024 commemorates Sardar Patel’s immense contributions to national unity and integration. By taking this pledge, participants reaffirm their commitment to building a stronger, new India. This initiative aims to inspire individuals and institutions to play their part in promoting unity and inclusivity, crucial pillars for the nation’s progress toward becoming a developed country by 2047.

Benefits

  1. All participants will be issued a digital certificate as a symbol of their pledge.
  2. Selected participants will be featured in a special Unity Champions poster.
  3. Organizations or institutions with 150 or more participants will be recognized as Impact Partners and awarded an appreciation certificate.

Eligibility

  • Open to all individuals and institutions across India.
  • No age or region restrictions.

Steps to Take the Pledge:

  1. Visit the National Unity Day 2024 Pledge Link to take the pledge.
    Fill in the required details.
  2. Recite the pledge, feel it and submit the form.
    Visit the Download Certificate link to download your Certificate of Commitment to Unity.
  3. You will get an invitation on email to upload a photo to be featured in the Unity Champions poster.

Servotech Secures New Order for EV Charging Stations in Nashik

New Delhi, 8th October ’24: Servotech Power Systems Ltd., a prominent player in the EV charging and solar industry, has secured an additional order of EV Charging Stations from the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC). Previously the company had received an order from NMC which involved Servotech supplying, commissioning, and constructing 20 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout the Nashik Municipal Corporation area. Seeing the timely execution and delivery, NMC has given this additional order to the company which will now involve Servotech supplying, commissioning, and constructing a total of 29 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

Sarika Bhatia, Director of Servotech Power Systems Ltd. said, “We are thrilled to contribute to Nashik’s transition to cleaner transportation and remain fully committed to fostering a sustainable future for both the city and the nation by working on the additional order given by NMC. At Servotech, we’re dedicated to enhancing the charging experience for all EV owners. As we serve a growing customer base, we are carving out our own niche in the EV charging sector. Strengthening the EV charging network with Servotech’s leading software and hardware represents a major advancement in our goal for high-speed, accessible charging infrastructure in India. This initiative aligns with our commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. With our extensive network of convenience and mobility sites both on and off highways, this partnership with NMC will provide fast and reliable charging solutions to EV drivers in and around Nashik whenever they need it.”

This order will meet the growing need for convenient EV charging infrastructure in Nashik, supporting the city’s shift toward sustainable transport solutions. By developing an accessible and enhanced EV charging network, it will be easier for EV users to recharge their vehicles, ensuring seamless intercity and interstate journeys. Servotech will oversee the installation, supply, and maintenance of EV charging stations across Nashik, strengthening the city’s charging network. This positions Servotech as a key player in India’s EV infrastructure growth, aligning with national goals for a robust EV ecosystem. Moreover, the initiative demonstrates Servotech’s commitment to sustainability, contributing to cleaner transportation and reduced emissions in Nashik.

Over 100 Educators Embrace Future Skills at Get Set Learn Conclave

Kolkata, 7th October 2024, Get Set Learn, a leading education startup launched by the Arvind Mafatlal Group, hosted its 7th edition of the Future Ready Conclave in Kolkata on Friday, 27th September. The event brought together over 100 educators for a day of insightful discussions on the importance of 21st century skills in education, particularly through the integration of essential skills, such as entrepreneurship, life skills, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in classrooms.

Dr. Gaurav Trivedi, Associate Professor at Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati delivered a captivating keynote address on the importance of teaching STEM and AI in Classrooms today where he highlighted the important role of modern educational approaches in shaping the future of young learners in India.

The conclave’s energy extended beyond the keynote, featuring dynamic panel discussions and breakout sessions where educators shared best practices for weaving 21st century skills into their curriculum.

“India’s education system is rapidly evolving from traditional rote learning to a more holistic and skill-based framework. At Get Set Learn, we use project-based activities to create a more dynamic and engaging learning experience for students and equip them to solve real-world problems and foster collaboration, critical thinking, and blend interdisciplinary lessons,” said Dr. Ritu Uppal, Chief Academics Officer, Get Set Learn.

“With such initiatives, our mission is to equip both educators and students with the necessary tools to thrive in a competitive global landscape,” she added.

A particular highlight of the conclave was the felicitation ceremony, which recognized educators for their pioneering work in advancing new age skills, such as life skills, artificial intelligence, robotics, entrepreneurship, and STEM in their schools.

“Embracing STEM and AI in classrooms today is not merely about equipping students with tools for the future; it’s about cultivating a visionary approach for Viksit Bharat 2047,” said Dr. Trivedi, while addressing educators and sharing his thoughts on the need to integrate these technologies into education.

“We can empower the next generation to innovate, solve complex challenges, and foster inclusivity, ultimately shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for the younger generation,” he added.

The Future Ready Conclave served as a powerful platform for collaboration, encouraging participants to share their insights and ideas for enhancing 21st century skills-focused education in India. Get Set Learn’s initiative promises to leave a lasting impact, empowering educators and inspiring a new generation of future – ready learners.

MIA by Tanishq Expands with Three New Stores in Chandigarh and Panchkula

Chandigarh, 7th October 2024 – Mia by Tanishq, one of India’s most fashionable jewellery brands, continues to solidify its retail footprint with the launch of three grand new stores in Chandigarh and Panchkula in the following locations:

1. Mia by Tanishq, Elante Mall, Chandigarh – 160004

2. Mia by Tanishq, Sector 8, Panchkula, Haryana – 134109

3. Mia by Tanishq, Sector 17, Chandigarh – 160017

All the stores were inaugurated by Rajiv C Menon, National Sales and Retail Head, Mia by Tanishq. This expansion underscores the brand’s commitment to reach everyone who loves to express themselves through jewellery. The stores feature some of Mia’s most elegant and charming jewellery pieces in vibrant coloured stones, dazzling gold, sparking diamond and shining silver across a variety of designs. The wide assortment of studs, hoops, finger rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants, neckwear and mangalsutras caters to diversified consumer preferences. The selection at the stores also includes versatile modular jewellery, and the captivating Evil Eye series.

A brand known for its modern and chic offerings, Mia by Tanishq offers striking designs with a unique blend of boldness, minimalism, and elegance. The stores feature the exclusive Mia Disco collection, inspired by the glitz and glam of the 70s disco era, specially curated for the festive season. With its diverse range of styles, the brand has something for everyone, perfect for every day and every occasion.

Speaking at the inauguration, Rajiv C Menon, National Sales and Retail Head, Mia by Tanishq said, “We are delighted to expand Mia by Tanishq’s presence in Chandigarh and Panchkula, key markets where the love for fine jewellery blends beautifully with modern sensibilities. These new stores represent our continued commitment to strengthen meaningful relationships with our modern, fashion-forward customers of Chandigarh and Haryana who prefer fine jewellery. With the launch of our new stores in the city, we’re excited to present our latest festive collection inspired by the 70s Disco Era.

Following the store launch, Mia by Tanishq now counts over 50 stores in Northern India. Experiencing rapid growth, we currently boast a retail footprint of over 210 stores nationwide. With Mia’s new retail space in the city, we hope to provide our customers with a one-stop destination for stunning contemporary jewellery pieces.”

Spread over 1,936 sq ft., Mia by Tanishq stores in Chandigarh and Panchkula showcase a wide range of trendy and contemporary 14kt and 18kt jewellery designs across categories. The store exudes the same vibrant energy and lively spirit that define the Mia brand. With its bright, playful design featuring bold pink and gold accents, along with luminous lighting, every corner is crafted to create an immersive and welcoming shopping experience. The thoughtfully curated interiors reflect Mia’s youthful elegance, making it a delightful space where customers can explore and celebrate their style.