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Mumbai, INDIA – February 19, 2024: After decades of development, AI has left the computer science lab and is now beginning to impact how business is conducted. And yet, no single technology advance in the past several decades has attracted more attention – or created more fear – than Generative AI. Between over-inflated expectations and doomsday predictions, business leaders have been left stranded without clear guidance, meaningful insight, or a playbook for the future of business.

 HFS Research, in partnership with Ascendion, is now releasing Your Generative Enterprise™ Playbook for the Future, a first-of-its-kind applied research series offering enterprise leaders a head start in the race to succeed with GenAI technology. Data and insights provide practical guidance, real-world insights, and tactical recommendations honed from extensive quantitative surveys and in- depth interviews with executive business leaders and AI innovators from companies with $500+ million in revenue.

 According to HFS Research Executive Research Leader David Cushman, “Study respondents have effectively visited the future. They like what they’ve seen and want more of it. The next few quarters and years will be a rocket ride for companies correctly timing innovation with GenAI and balancing investment with return. Leaders sitting on the sidelines could face an extinction event.”

 More than 120 early adopters interviewed call GenAI the most disruptive technology they have ever experienced and state the benefits for enterprises will swiftly move beyond quick wins and savings to impact revenue and market valuation.

 Ascendion is on a mission to help businesses move GenAI from a test case to the fast track of how work gets done. “The key to generative AI isn’t bots, it’s brains. The right human skills empower us to harness its power. To build the last mile where enterprises will reap the most value depends on the intersection of technology plus talent,” said Prakash Balasubramanian, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Engineering Practices and Delivery at Ascendion.

Some top highlights from the research include:
· We need more humans in the loop. A striking 75% of the surveyed cohort ranked having sufficient GenAI-skilled talent as a top obstacle for effective deployment, highlighting the talent gap as a significant challenge.
· Invest in humanities to meet the GenAI talent gap. Nearly 88% of respondents believe GenAI will make power skills like communication, empathy, curiosity, and emotional intelligence far more important, highlighting the evolving skillset required in the GenAI era.
· AI will deliver more than just cost savings. While initial benefits include cost savings and
productivity gains, GenAI’s true potential lies in driving revenue growth and market valuation.
· AI will unlock value from every business function. Around 47% of leaders identify customer service as the key business function where GenAI will create high value over the next 12 to 18 months, illustrating its immediate applicability.
· Generative AI will re-shape business economics. The study finds that approximately 40% of respondents expect GenAI to deliver a more than 10% improvement in overall productivity, signaling the urgency for businesses to adapt.

“GenAI will deliver significant, if not spectacular, benefits for business economics in most companies. For companies not making the right moves right now, the velocity of this shift will likely become an existential threat,” says HFS Research CEO and Chief Analyst Phil Fersht. “Based on our data, ignoring critical lessons learned and informed opinions from our GenAI  pioneers is unwise.”

Brace yourselves for an uproarious experience filled with side-splitting laughter and unforgettable moments as Sony Entertainment Television is all set to launch a new comedy show, ‘Madness Machayenge – India Ko Hasayenge!’ Redefining the genre by breaking the conventional norms of comedy, this show will effortlessly deliver varied styles of comedy with an impressive line-up of seasoned comedians!

Ready to laugh out loud along with India will be the beautiful Huma Qureshi, who will assume the role of a comedy champion. In this dynamic and central part, she will offer a great blend of humour, support, and engagement in various segments, coupled with her witty observations and hilarious anecdotes, promising a weekend of pure entertainment that will leave you craving for more.

Sharing her excitement about being a part of the show, Huma Qureshi says, “Comedy serves as a universal stressbuster and our aim is simple: to spread joy and laughter one joke at a time. In today’s fast-paced world, we believe everyone deserves a break filled with laughter, and Madness Machayenge is here to deliver just that.”

Elaborating on her role further, she adds, “I am thrilled to be a part of this show as the comedy champion wherein I will challenge our comedians with tasks across different segments that will range from fun and simple to unusual situations, testing their mettle as we embark on this exciting journey of comedy and camaraderie.”

Bengaluru, February 19, 2024

Godrej Properties Ltd. (GPL), (BSE scrip id: GODREJPROP), one of India’s leading real estate developers, today announced reaffirmation of credit rating by ICRA. 

Highlights:

Credit Rating Limits for bank facilities have been reaffirmed at [ICRA]AA+/[ICRA]A1+ with an enhancement of Rs. 6,500 crore. Outlook on the long-term rating is “Stable”. Instruments with this rating are considered to have a high degree of safety regarding timely servicing of financial obligations. Such instruments carry very low credit risk.

Rating for INR 2,000 Crore Commercial Paper (CP) reaffirmed at [ICRA]A1+. Instruments with [ICRA]A1+ rating are considered to have a very strong degree of safety regarding timely servicing of financial obligations. Such instruments carry the lowest credit risk.

Long–term rating for INR 4,000 crore NCD Borrowing Program reaffirmed at [ICRA]AA+. Outlook on the long-term rating is “Stable”. Instruments with this rating are considered to have a high degree of safety regarding timely servicing of financial obligations. Such instruments carry very low credit risk.

Bengaluru, 19 February 2024: The acclaimed ad campaigns of Ambuja Cements and ACC – ‘Mazbooti Ki Misaal’ and ‘Bharosa Atoot’ – have captivated audiences on Connected TV (CTV) platforms, thanks to data-driven decisions and digital awareness. Partnering with Starcom India and Frodoh World, the reach of these campaigns has expanded. The ad films are now streaming across OTT platforms like Disney+ Hotstar, Sony LIV, Zee5, and Jio Cinema, redefining brand engagement in the ever-evolving digital age.

These campaigns have received an overwhelming response across TV and digital platforms, setting the stage for Ambuja and ACC’s latest strategic leap into CTV. This move is designed to captivate a fresh audience demographic, amplifying brand visibility and reinforcing recall in a dynamic brand campaign push.

Mr. Ajay Kapur, CEO, Cement Business, said, “In today’s fast-paced media landscape, our leap into connected TV advertising is a testament to our innovation ethos. Our aim is to target a fresh, engaged audience, boosting the visibility and resonance of our iconic brands. Our strategic step to captivate CTV viewers is about staying connected and memorable in a world where brand interaction is key to our B2C success.”

The success of ‘Mazbooti Ki Misaal’ lies in the gripping narrative of the ad film that showcases the story of a loving family and their devoted Giant Elephant. Amid a quaint home, the child and the elephant share playful moments, from flying kites to splashing water and storytelling. The film gracefully captures the symbiotic existence, emphasizing daily routines where the mother cares for both child and elephant. A surprising scene unfolds on the terrace, showcasing Ambuja Cements’ attributes of unmatched mightiness and dependability with the Giant Elephant’s playful mishap, highlighting the brand’s ‘Giant Compressive Strength’.

From towering urban structures to individual households, ACC has been pivotal in shaping India’s infrastructure and impacting the lives of its citizens. ACC’s ‘Bharosa Atoot’, depicts the journey of a military personnel, emphasizing “trust” as the cornerstone of our brand. Symbolism abounds in the ad, from navigating scenic hill roads to portraying a mother’s nurturing guidance and a heartwarming family reunion, all representing the enduring legacy and trust associated with ACC. Our goal is to lead viewers on a journey showcasing the significance of our constructions and their positive impact on individual’s lives and the nation at large. It’s an ultimate journey of earning the unbreakable trust of India.

Bengaluru, February 19th, 2023: Birla Institute of Management Technology conducted its extravaganza festival, BIMTECH Business Literature Festival (BBLF), on Saturday, 17th February 2024, at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, with resounding success.

The festival was graced and addressed by dignitaries like Mr. Shiv Shivakumar, Operating Partner, Advent International and Former Chairperson & Chief Executive Officer at PepsiCo and Nokia; Mr. Ravi Kant, Ex-Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, Tata Motors; Mr. R. Gopalakrishnan, Ex-Executive Director, Tata Sons Ltd; Mr. Harit Nagpal, CEO, Tata Sky; Mr. Harish Bhat, Former Brand Custodian, Tata Sons Ltd.; Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director, BIMTECH, Dr. SS Dubey, Dean Academics BIMTECH.

To foster the habit of reading business literature amongst students and professionals, BIMTECH also hosted acclaimed authors, editors, budding writers and esteemed journalists exhibiting the camaraderie between literary figures and some of the finest business veterans.

Shiv Shivakumar, emphasized the importance of reading books and said, “A book is our best friend.” He further said, “During the COVID-19 pandemic, the average time spent reading books increased from 9 hours per week to 16 hours per week. This surge in reading indicates a latent demand for books, showcasing that people are willing to engage with education. As authors and publishers, we must recognize the potential of the book industry and work together to create high-quality, engaging content that captures the imagination and encourages people to spend more time reading.” Shivakumar urged the audience to commit to reading books, emphasizing that doing so not only educates but also makes individuals more interested in the world.

The event was categorised into six intellectually engaging sessions with two panel discussions on topics of significance such as ‘Strong women, Strong World’ and ‘Mind Matters: Nurturing Mental Wellness’. A masterclass was organized on ‘Global Leadership through Poetry’ with Mr. Abhay K. (Diplomat, Poet and DDG, Indian Council for Cultural Relations, New Delhi) which was organized by ‘Majlis Club’, the debating and theater society of BIMTECH, in collaboration with the UN Global Compact Network India.

This one-of-a-kind literature festival also witnessed an entire session on unveiling of three books straight out of the oven, namely, ‘Rx for Resilience’ by Dr. Saroj Dubey, ‘Enhancing Leadership Skills Through Deeper Self Awareness’ by Dr. Shivani Khetan and ‘NEWSPRINT to HEARTPRINTS’ by Dr. Abhijit K. Chattoraj, Dr. Srinath Sridharan, and Ms. Saloni Sinha.

In the Fireside Chat, Mr. Harish Bhat, author of ‘Restless Lives’ & Former Brand Custodian-

Tata Sons, in conversation with Mr. Harit Nagpal, CEO of Tata Play, delved into a thought-provoking discussion on the book ‘Adapt: To Thrive, Not Just Survive’.

Harit Nagpal, CEO of Tata Sky and author of the book “Adapt,” underscored the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing world. Mr Harit Nagpal was in conversation with Mr Harish Bhat, the former brand custodian of Tata Sons. He compared adaptability to the chameleon, a creature known for its ability to change color to blend into its environment, illustrating the need for individuals and organizations to be agile and responsive to the shifting landscape. He emphasized that in the modern era, the pace of change is accelerating, with each new change occurring faster and being more significant than the last. He mentioned examples such as the COVID-19 pandemic and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) as drivers of rapid change.

The valedictory address was delivered by Mr. R. Gopalakrishnan, Ex-Executive Director, Tata Sons Ltd., Ex-Vice Chairman-Hindustan Lever, and author of ‘Inside the Boardroom’, who congratulated BBLF4 team for planning the event meticulously and organizing insightful interactions.

Remarking on the huge outreach of the fest, Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director, BIMTECH, said, “Witnessing the massive success of the past three editions, BIMTECH is back with its flagship literature festival to foster the habit of reading about business landscape among students and stakeholders. This niche literary celebration has brought together excelling business leaders, authors and industry experts to engage in thoughtful discussions on the latest waves in the world of business.”

This Biz-Lit Fest presented a distinctive blend of business literary flavor through readings of literary works, engaging panel discussions, and hands-on workshops; which aimed to bring together like-minded individuals from academia, journalism, media, and the widespread literary community at large.

Bengaluru, February 19, 2024: As businesses evolve and transform, the role of a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) has also undergone a significant change over the years. Today’s CMOs are responsible for not just brand marketing but are expected to take on ownership of business growth as well. To prepare CMOs for this paradigm shift, the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM Kozhikode), a leading business school ranked 3rd in the Ministry of Education’s NIRF 2023 rankings, along with Emeritus, a global pioneer in offering accessible and affordable high-quality education to individuals and organisations, have announced the roll out of the first-ever Chief Marketing and Growth Officer Programme.

This 10-month live online programme is delivered by IIMK’s eminent faculty and industry experts, offering real-world case studies, a 3-day immersion at the IIMK campus for networking opportunities, hands-on business simulations and a capstone project guided by the IIMK faculty. The programme will also prepare participants to create their own CMO Playbook, to help them envision, collaborate, and innovate. Graduates (10+2+3) or diploma holders (only 10+2+3) from a recognised university, with a minimum work experience of 10 years can apply for this programme. High-potential aspiring CMOs, new and evolving CMOs/sales/brand/revenue officers, as well as business leaders can benefit from the programme by learning the myriad demands of modern marketing.

As per a study by PwC, nearly 45% of CMOs today are investing in tech in response to the current market environment – depicting a clear sign that CMOs need to broaden their comfort zone in order to lead. Another study by management consulting firm McKinsey & Company in 2023 also found that about 80 per cent of CEOs believe CMOs can be a major driver of company growth. This places a great emphasis on the CMOs’ need to upskill themselves to the market demands. The IIMK Chief Marketing and Growth Officer Programme ensures that experienced marketers can achieve career growth and imbibe growth-oriented leadership skills.

Through this programme, CMOs will be able to:

· Drive customer-focused enterprises through innovative marketing and growth strategies

· Enhance financial intelligence and critical thinking for superior decision-making

· Execute cross-functional initiatives for sustainable brand growth in dynamic markets

· Leverage internet technologies and data-backed insights for marketing transformation

· Drive data and AI strategy with automation and digital capabilities for effective marketing

· Lead strategic brand & distribution initiatives to achieve product leadership and meet stakeholder expectations

Commenting on the launch of the programme, Mr Mohan Kannegal, CEO, India and APAC, Emeritus, said, “We, at Emeritus, are committed to bringing high-impact programmes for professionals to upskill, gain in-depth industry knowledge, and learn various new-age techniques that can help them elevate their performances and contribute to organizational growth. The role of CMOs has rapidly expanded in the past few years to include various new responsibilities and we are confident that the design and module of this programme, and its uniqueness in including essential learnings will help CMOs be equipped with the right advanced skills required to navigate the evolving modern marketing landscape and its complexities and drive business growth. We are excited to partner with prestigious institutions such as IIM Kozhikode to drive this growth among CMOs and thereby their organisations.”

Prof. Omkumar Krishnan, Professor, Marketing Management, IIM Kozhikode, who is also one of the programme directors, said, “The modern CMO has to wear many hats. The innovation hat. The technology hat. The people hat. The collaboration hat. And the IIMK CMO programme offers a holistic perspective that helps you synchronise all that and more, so you can mature into a relevant, exceptional leader in today’s data-driven, shifting world.”

This programme is set to begin on March 24, 2024, with a fee of INR 4,25,000 plus applicable taxes (enrolment benefit price valid till February 22, 2024). On successfully completing all evaluation components of the programme and maintaining a minimum attendance of 75%, participants will be awarded a completion certificate from IIM Kozhikode.

In a world where technology seamlessly integrates into our daily lives, even mundane household appliances are getting a futuristic upgrade. Say goodbye to traditional geysers, and welcome the era of smart geysers. Here’s a curated list of the top 5 smart geysers from leading brands in 2024, promising efficiency, innovation, and a touch of luxury for your everyday needs.

1. Racold Omnis Wi-Fi: Connectivity Redefined

Racold Omnis Wi-Fi takes geyser technology to the next level with its Wi-Fi-enabled features. Control your geyser remotely through the dedicated app, ensuring hot water is ready when you need it. The sleek design adds a touch of modernity to your bathroom, making Racold a smart and stylish choice.

2. Havells Puro Turbo 15L: Electric Elegance

Combining style with efficiency, the Havells Puro Turbo 15L geyser offers rapid heating and a sleek design. With user-friendly features, it ensures a hassle-free and luxurious bathing experience.

3. AO Smith HSE-SES-15: Precision Performance

The AO Smith HSE-SES-15 stands out for its precision in water heating. Equipped with advanced technology, this geyser delivers consistent hot water, making it a reliable choice for households with varying water heating needs.

4. Bajaj New Shakti GL 25-Litre: Trusted Tradition

Bajaj’s New Shakti GL 25-Litre geyser embodies reliability and affordability. Known for its traditional yet efficient design, it caters to the diverse requirements of Indian households, providing a steady supply of hot water.

5. V-Guard Victo 15L: Safety Meets Style

V-Guard Victo 15L geyser strikes a balance between safety and style. Featuring a robust build and user-friendly functionalities, it ensures a secure and comfortable hot water experience, making it a popular choice among Indian households.

Upgrade your bathing experience with these top-of-the-line smart geysers that combine cutting-edge technology with everyday convenience, making your daily routine a truly luxurious experience.

Pune,19th February 2024: Orchids The International School, known for its commitment to nurturing creativity, recently hosted a spectacular two-day Children’s Art Fest in Pune on the 16th and 17th of February. The event, a culmination of various art forms learned throughout the academic year, brought together students, parents, and grandparents for a memorable extravaganza held at Shubham Gardens. The mega event saw massive participation from across Orchids’ Pune campuses.

The event comprised five live stages showcasing the creative talents nurtured by Orchidians’ art education program over the academic year. This grand celebration of artistic expression showcased the performance across diverse art forms such as folk and classical dance, vocal and instrumental music, skits, mime, street theater, and more. Fun activity stalls like DIY workshops, mask making, doodles, pottery making, mandala art, print painting, and more were arranged for parents and grandparents to enjoy together with their children further enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Every student performed in two art forms and seamlessly moved from one stage to another, showing the immaculate planning by the academic planners and faculty.

Dr Madhuri Sagale, Vice President – Academics of Arts, Orchids the International School, said “At Orchids, we strongly advocate for the significant role of art in fostering and displaying the creativity of our students. We organize a variety of art-centric programs and curriculum activities consistently, empowering students to delve into their artistic passions. The art festival serves as an inclusive platform for presenting students’ dance performances, street plays, skits, musical routines, visual arts, DIY exhibitions, and live workshops. We aim to create lasting memories for parents, providing them with the opportunity to witness their child’s imaginative talents. We are confident that such experiences bring joy to both parents and children”

The two-day Children’s Art Fest was a grand success in highlighting the importance of art and creativity for child development.

Mumbai, 19 February 2024: Amazon miniTV, Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently released the romantic comedy series Dillogical. And what better way to celebrate the month of love than having the perfect dose of entertainment that encapsulates love, drama, emotions, and the nuances of a modern-day relationship? Dillogical follows the story of a young and successful man named Saranash, who returns to India to reunite with his childhood sweetheart Jinal. Jinal has a natural talent for dancing, which propels her to become a dance influencer with a significant following on Instagram. Her deep-rooted concerns have, however, become worse since she gained independence, making her rethink the life her family had planned for her with Saransh, ever since she could remember. The series features Anshuman Malhotra, Nupur Nagpal, Priyank Sharma, Chetan Dhawan, and Prasanna Bisht in pivotal roles.

Talking about Dillogical in detail, Nupur Nagpal, who plays the role of Jinal in the series, shares, “I have read a lot of youth-based show scripts before, but this one came across as a lot more wholesome when I first read its script. That’s because it is not just about friends; the stakes are very high. The story is set at the destination wedding of a family friend, where everyone’s family members are present, and the incidents that transpire there are very interesting. All the characters are different from each other. They face some or other emotional conflict. But, I think the writers and creators have done a commendable job with the way they all get tied up together at the end.”

She further adds how this series is a cut above other shows, saying, “There is a lot of content on OTT to choose from, but what makes Dillogical stand out is the fact that it is a feel-good show. There are a lot of thrillers, biopics, dramas, and crime stories, but sometimes we just want a wholesome, fun-loving show about the youth and their feelings. That’s exactly what makes Dillogical extremely special in my eyes.”

Indulge in a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and drama with Dillogical, available to stream for free on Amazon miniTV, available on Amazon’s shopping app, on Fire TV and on Play Store.

National, 19 February 2024: Queen’s University Belfast, one of the leading Universities in UK and Ireland as well as a member of the prestigious Russell Group of UK research-intensive universities Group, proudly announces the appointment of Dr. M. Satish Kumar, Associate Professor from the School of Natural and Built Environment, Geography, Archaeology & Palaeoecology, as the Chairperson of the Kerala Urban Policy Commission in India.

This appointment comes from the Government of Kerala in recognition of Dr. Kumar’s exceptional expertise in urban development from a global perspective.

Kerala, with a population of 30 million, stands as a biodiverse, cosmopolitan state in India’s southwestern region. Its extensive coastline renders it particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rapid urbanization further amplifies these challenges, with over 92 percent of the population predicted to reside in urban areas by 2036.

In recent years, Kerala has faced a series of significant weather events, including the devastating cyclone of 2017 and the catastrophic floods of 2018 and 2019. These events underscored the urgent need for robust systems to anticipate and respond to climate-related shocks and hazards. Recognizing this imperative, the Government of Kerala took proactive steps by establishing the ‘Urban Policy Commission,’ making it the first state in India to do so.

Dr. M. Satish Kumar, Associate Professor, Queen’s University Belfast said, “I am deeply honoured to accept the appointment as Chairperson of the Kerala Urban Policy Commission, representing Queen’s University Belfast. This opportunity not only reflects the trust placed in me by the Government of Kerala but also underscores the university’s commitment to global engagement and impactful and engaged research. Leveraging the expertise gained from Queen’s, I am eager to collaborate with stakeholders to contribute to sustainable urban development and climate resilience efforts in Kerala and expand the academic partnerships going forward”.

The Minister of Local Self Government, M.B. Rajesh said: “As the distinguished Honorary Global Chair for Sustainable Development Goals, Dr Kumar brings vast experience and interdisciplinary scholarship to help steer policy thoughts on critical issues of urban development. We are confident that Dr Kumar, with his familiarity with global urban discourses, will provide expert advice to the State Government as the Chairperson of the Urban Policy Commission, to prepare the blueprint of a sustainable urban policy for Kerala. We look forward to working with Dr Kumar and continuing to develop our relationship with Queen’s University.”

President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s, Professor Sir Ian Greer said: “I am delighted that Dr Satish Kumar has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Kerala Urban Policy Commission.“This is an honour for Queen’s University Belfast and reflects Dr Kumar’s experience and significant collaborative efforts working within India, gaining the respect of those he has worked with, and I am confident he will use this position to help steer policy in the critical areas including urban development, decarbonisation, heritage conservation, and sustainable and planned urbanisation.”