Day 1 Begins – PM Modi Scripting a New Narrative for India at ET Now Global Business Summit 2024

10th February 2024, New Delhi, India – The 8th edition of The Times Group presents ET Now Global Business Summit kicks off today at the illustrious Taj Palace, Delhi, bringing together a constellation of global leaders, business tycoons, and policymakers to address pressing issues shaping the world’s politics, economy, and diplomacy. Against the backdrop of intense geopolitical dynamics, the summit stands as a beacon of collaboration, dialogue, and strategic engagement, poised to influence the trajectory of international relations.

 On Day 1, PM Modi will headline the summit and put forth his vision on scripting a new India. After two terms as the Prime Minister, his popularity has only grown, and his leadership recognized even by world leaders. From the country being the fastest-growing economy, to the Sensex outperforming global indices, and the recognition India has received on the global stage – India is defining itself as a force to reckon with.

 To complement the PMs vision and turn it into reality, the keynote speaker on Day 2 of the summit, will be Hon’ble Minister of Home Affairs and Minster of Co-operation, popularly referred to as the Chanakya of Indian politics. It is under his strategic political acumen that the NDA has gained the prominence that it has today. A country’s economic growth is directly linked to political stability, and it is this steadiness that has put India on the economic trajectory that it is witnessing today.

 In a year when the government is seeking a fresh mandate, their addresses will be most anticipated as the audience will be keen to see what the two leaders have to say about the political and economic issues as they lay the blueprint for the country’s growth. See you today at the Taj Palace for India’s premier gathering of political and business leaders.

New Series ‘State v/s Ahuja’ marking Ashmit Patel’s on-screen comeback

Mumbai: Watcho Exclusives, the leading OTT platform from Dish TV India Limited, has unveiled its first original series of 2024 – ‘State v/s Ahuja’. The enthralling thriller series marks the return of Actor Ashmit Patel after a brief hiatus. Directed by Tarun Chopra, ‘State v/s Ahuja’ narrates the captivating tale of Bollywood superstar ‘Ansh Ahuja’ facing rape accusations from his maid. The series is exclusively available on the Watcho App from February 9, 2024, onwards.

State vs Ahuja_Poster

The story follows Ansh Ahuja (Ashmit Patel), a Bollywood superstar embroiled in controversy after being accused of rape by his maid. As the plot thickens, viewers are drawn into a riveting world of suspense, investigation, and courtroom drama, where unexpected revelations keep them hooked. With evidence pointing in different directions, the audience is left to question Ansh’s innocence amidst a web of deceit and conspiracy. The series poses the compelling question: Did Ansh truly commit the crime, or is there a sinister conspiracy at play? With each episode, the suspense deepens, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats until the final revelation.

Over the years, Watcho has delighted viewers with a diverse range of exclusive series spanning various genres such as ‘Oh My Wife!’, ‘Luck Shots’, ‘Aarambh’, ‘GillHarry’, ‘Explosive’, ‘The Morning Show’, ‘Manghadant’, ‘Avaidh’, and ‘Jaunpur’, among others. The OTT App is now gearing up to celebrate its fifth anniversary in 2024 and promises to captivate audiences with a new lineup of original series.

Mr. Sukhpreet Singh, Corporate Head of Marketing at Dish TV India Ltd, said, “We are excited to introduce our latest Watcho Exclusive series, ‘State v/s Ahuja’. This marks our first major release of 2024, setting the stage for an exhilarating year ahead. ‘State v/s Ahuja’ will captivate viewers with its compelling narrative, intriguing characters, and unexpected twists. At Watcho, we are committed to bringing you engaging content that resonates with viewers from all walks of life. As we continue to evolve and grow, we are dedicated to delivering quality entertainment that not only engages viewers but also leaves a lasting impact.”

Actor Ashmit Patel, who plays the titular role of Ansh, said, “I’m thrilled not only to return to the screen after a brief break (during which time I’ve been working on my music production and doing my DJ gigs) with such an intriguing concept. ‘State v/s Ahuja’, a Watcho Exclusives series, delves into complex themes and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The character of Ansh offers a depth and complexity that immediately intrigued me. As an actor, I’m always drawn to roles that push boundaries and provoke thought. ‘State v/s Ahuja’ offered me exactly that opportunity. It allowed me to challenge myself in new ways. When I read the script and the character details, it felt like the perfect project to break my self-imposed hiatus, and without a second thought, I went for it. Now that the series is streaming on Watcho, I can’t wait for viewers to experience this suspenseful story with me.”

‘State v/s Ahuja’, produced by Suresh Thomas under the banners of Crescendo Films and Amicable Crew, features an ensemble cast including Jaswinder Gardner, Anurekha Bhagat, Sarika Singh, Swapnil Ralkar, Apeksha Verma, Drishti Patil, Manish Jaitley, Arjun Krishna, Vicky Baidyanath, and Harsh Gautam.

Immerse yourself in the gripping story of ‘State v/s Ahuja’, exclusively on Watcho, to unravel the truth behind the allegations and the unexpected twists that emerge.

Nextech 2024: Exploring Human Empowerment and Tech Revolution

Delhi, February 10, 2024 ETHRWorld, the flagship digital platform for the HR vertical of The Economic Times, announces the much-anticipated Nextech HR Summit India 2024, set to happen on February 22-23, 2024, in Gurugram, India, and 23rd Feb online. This summit stands as a landmark event, convening industry luminaries to deliberate on the future of technology and its transformative impact on human efficiency and decision-making.

The theme for this year is ‘Road to Metasmart’, a topic that explores the transformative convergence of Meta and smart technologies to enhance our capabilities and elevate potential. Featuring over 55 speakers from diverse industries, the event will spotlight pivotal focus areas, including innovation, inclusion and sustainability, human enablement, and digital leadership. The overarching objective is to equip attendees with the insights and resources necessary to elevate their skill sets and foster continual learning and development in their workplaces.

Amit Kumar Gupta, Business Head, ET B2B HR Vertical, commented, “Nextech India HR Summit 2024 is set to illuminate the technological advancements and innovations that are poised to reshape the future of work and collaboration. It strategically aims to provide attendees with invaluable insights and resources, empowering them to navigate the evolving landscape of HR confidently.”

Acknowledging the importance for businesses to adapt, evolve, and harness the vast potential of the Metasmart Era, the summit also entails meticulously curated masterclasses designed to encapsulate the core essence of fortifying HR strategies for the future landscape. Two masterclasses, titled “AI-Driven Workforce Planning for Metasmart Era” and “Agile Leadership: Nurturing Adaptive Teams Amid Rapid Technological Shifts” promise to provide invaluable insights for professionals to navigate the complexities of today’s evolving workplaces. Like last year, this edition will also feature The Economic Times Human Capital Awards, a platform that brings together the best minds in the HR world.

Ankit Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Unstop, emphasized the event’s significance in the evolving HR landscape, stating, “In 2023, we witnessed a transformative shift in both the hiring and talent landscape. The demand for skill-based hiring has surged, allowing HR teams to leverage advanced technology for automation and, in turn, focus on critical aspects such as employer branding and engagement. The Nextech India HR Summit 2024 is an instrumental platform propelling these pivotal transformations.”

The Nextech India HR Summit 2024 also has a Startup-Straight Up track, highlighting the pivotal role of startups in India’s evolving business landscape. This dedicated platform within the summit aims to amplify the impact of startups by showcasing their disruptive ideas, sharing success stories, and engaging with key stakeholders. The track aligns with the theme “Road to Meta Smart,” exploring how startups can leverage emerging technologies for sustainable business models.

The program welcomes a diverse audience, offering valuable insights into resilience, investor considerations, HR priorities, and economic impact. Through a robust agenda, it aims to equip startup founders and entrepreneurs with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship successfully. Overall, the Startup-Straight Up track promises to be a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and growth within the startup ecosystem, shaping the future of work in India.

Additionally, the Nextech India HR Summit boasts an impressive lineup of top speakers representing various industries. Renowned figures such as Max Blumberg, Data & People Analytics Visionary and Founder of Blumberg Partnership; Rajkamal Vempati, Head HR at Axis Bank, Aadesh Goyal, Global CHRO at Tata Communications; and Lakshmi C, MD-HR Lead at Accenture, among others, will grace the event. Their expertise and insights will enrich panel discussions and networking opportunities, enhancing the summit’s value proposition for attendees.

Matrimony reports Revenue growth of 6.2% y/y

New Delhi, February 10, 2024: Matrimony.com Limited, the leading online matrimony company, announced its unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the third quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2023, as approved by its board of directors.

matrimony

Murugavel Janakiraman, Chairman and Managing Director said, “We are working on various enhancements and also new initiatives. These ongoing measures are expected to provide the desired momentum in the coming quarters”.

Key financial highlights for the quarter ended December 31, 2023

Consolidated

· Billing at Rs 116.2 crores (decline of 0.8% q/q and growth of 4.3% y/y)

· Revenue at Rs 117.3 crores (decline of 3.6% q/q and growth of 6.2% y/y)

· Profit After Tax (PAT) at Rs 11.1 crores (decline of 11.3% q/q and 4.3% y/y)

Matchmaking

· Billing at Rs 114.1 crores (decline of 0.7% q/q and growth of 5.3% y/y)

· Revenue at Rs 114.9 crores (decline of 3.5% q/q and growth of 6.7% y/y)

· Added 2.6 lakhs paid subscriptions during the quarter (growth of 1.4% q/q and 10.8% y/y)

Other highlights

· Launched a ‘Safe Matrimony’ campaign aimed at increasing awareness about online frauds, with Ace Actor Vidya Balan, as the face of this campaign

The series conveys that life itself is full of experiences and ideas”, Vishal Vashishtha on Hustlers- Jugaad Ka Khel

Mumbai, February 10th, 2024: – Amazon miniTV – Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently premiered its entrepreneurial drama, Hustlers- Jugaad Ka Khel, which is being applauded for bringing an inspiring narrative to the forefront. The series follows the story of Sanjay Sharma, a street-smart and determined small-town boy. The narrative revolves around his journey as he takes the risk to follow his passion, making his name in the start-up space despite constant comparisons from his family. Set in the backdrop of 2010, Mumbai, the series navigates Sanjay’s story as he enters the elite corridors of IIE Bombay, where he meets Vanshika, who motivates him to find his way in crossing conventional barriers against family pressure and overcoming his struggles to begin his entrepreneurial journey.

Vishal Vashishtha

Anjali Barot, who essays the role of Vanshika in the series, recently shared her reason for being drawn to its storyline. She expressed, “While the story is set against the backdrop of the start-up boom in 2010, I think it truly resonates with anyone who has challenged stereotypes and dared to take the plunge to pursue their passion. That’s what impressed me the most when I first read the script. Coming from a humble family background with no film connections, quitting a secure job to pursue acting was a major decision for me. While relatives and family friends always nudged my parents to ensure that I pursued a more traditional and secure career path, it was my parents who stood by my decision as my rock. So, when I read the script, I knew I wanted to be a part of this journey.”

Adding to this, Vishal Vashishtha, the main protagonist portraying the role of Sanjay Sharma elaborated on what sets the series apart, shedding light on its intriguing narrative. “The story is unique because it goes beyond the startup, focusing on a person’s journey and experiences. The series conveys that life itself is full of experiences and ideas. One has to be aware and present in the moment to identify it. And then it is followed by our perseverance, courage, and dedication to achieve the desired goal,” he stated.

Produced by Rainshine Entertainment and starring Vishal Vashishtha, Samir Kochhar, Maharshi Dave, Anjali Barot, and Anurag Arora in pivotal roles, Hustlers – Jugaad Ka Khel is streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV for free, available on Amazon’s shopping app, Fire TV, and Play Store.

CaratLane Postcards: The World’s First Revolutionary Tech That Embeds Video Messages In Jewellery

February, 2024. Mumbai: CaratLane, India’s leading omni-channel jewellery brand, has unveiled a new groundbreaking feature called Postcards, which leverages an innovative machine-learning technology, taking the brand’s promise of #KhulKeKaroExpress to the next level. It’s the world’s first-ever such service that lets users record heartfelt video messages and embed them into any CaratLane ring, which can be scanned by the recipient and relived forever.

jewllery

This jewellery-based tech innovation, conceived by co-founder and former MD of CaratLane, Mithun Sacheti, has transformed the entire gifting experience by adding a new, everlasting layer of expression.

Talking about the launch, Gurukeerthi Gurunathan, Co-founder & CTO, CaratLane, said: “Enabling our users to express their emotions is our brand’s purpose. Over the last two years, our commitment to bringing Postcards to life has been through a tedious journey of constant trials, testing, and pushing the limits of technology. But the true beauty of Postcards doesn’t lie in the complex technology that powers this service. It lies in the seamlessness with which the user can attach their emotions to a ring, making it even more priceless.”

Avnish Anand, Co-Founder & CEO, CaratLane, added, “Most of our designs are chosen for gifting, and over the years, we’ve seen that a vast majority of those users take the effort of writing a special gift message. While a gift message or card is personal, it’s also very transient- most people we spoke to ended up misplacing or losing the card in a few months. On the other hand, when it comes to conveying true emotions, a video is far more impactful. We wanted to address this inherent need for making the gifting experience deeply personalised through a service that would let users save these memories eternally. And that paved the way for Postcards.”

Launched just a week back, the service has already got everyone on social media talking about it. Over 400+ people joined CaratLane’s rather bold teaser on Instagram by showing off their ring finger to the world. The brand also teamed up with Yashraj Mukhate to create a catchy song that summed up the Postcards experience and had everyone grooving to its tunes. The big launch culminated in the release of three heartwarming films conceptualized by BBH India. Each film carries a wonderfully warm story that’s bound to tug on the heartstrings of everyone watching.

Parikshit Bhattacharya, Chief Creative Officer of BBH India, stated, “Postcards is a great example of brand experience. It uses technology to add more heart to the experience. And it comes straight out of the brand’s line Khul Ke Karo Express. The three stories in the films hint at the emotional reservoir that this experience can unlock for people while gifting a ring with CaratLane. This innovation needed memorable communication and I feel the teams at CaratLane, BBH and Colour Palette Films have delivered it in spades. Toh Khul Ke Karo Express with Postcards from CaratLane.”

CaratLane’s Postcards has phenomenally added a new dimension to gifting and self-expression, seamlessly blending emotions, and personalisation. Whether as a gift for others or a personal indulgence, it presents an exclusive and heartfelt way to express emotions in intimate relationships.

Can the amplification of sustainability carve out success for a personal care brand

Attributed to Mr. Yash Jaipuria, Chief Executive, Ginni Filaments

In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of personal care, brands are at a crossroads where consumer preferences, societal expectations, and environmental consciousness converge. Rather than presenting a hurdle, the increasing emphasis on sustainability unfurls a tapestry of opportunities for personal care brands, not only to survive but to play a pivotal role in fostering a future where commerce and conscientious choices harmoniously coexist.

The prevailing winds of change sweeping through consumer preferences signal not just a trend but a transformative shift in the market. The growing emphasis on sustainability, far from being a restraint, offers a unique opportunity for personal care brands to redefine their relationships with consumers. Rather than viewing sustainability as a challenge, forward-thinking brands are embracing it as a dynamic avenue to forge stronger connections, align with values, and actively participate in the collective journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.

A defining aspect of contemporary consumerism is empowerment. In an era characterized by information abundance and heightened environmental awareness, consumers are making choices that reflect their values. For personal care brands, this empowerment is not a barrier but an unprecedented opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogues. By understanding evolving aspirations, brands can tailor products and strategies to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly options, thereby establishing a deeper connection with their audience.

In the pursuit of sustainability, personal care brands need not tread the path of compromise. Quite the opposite, this paradigm shift presents an opportunity for innovation that seamlessly merges high-quality formulations with sustainable practices. Striking this delicate balance ensures that brands not only stay competitive but also offer products that perform exceptionally and resonate with the evolving values of their consumer base.

Sustainability is not a mere checkbox for conscientious consumers; it is a powerful catalyst for positive reinforcement. Personal care brands can actively communicate their commitment to sustainability, turning it into a rallying point for consumer loyalty. This goes beyond enhancing brand reputation; it positions the brand as a proactive agent for positive change in the industry. By showcasing their dedication to environmental responsibility, brands inspire confidence and trust among consumers who increasingly seek authenticity and purpose in the products they choose.

Dispelling the misconception that sustainability is an expensive venture, personal care brands can view it as a strategic investment with substantial economic benefits. Adopting eco-friendly practices allows brands to realize cost savings through efficient resource management, streamlined production processes, and a reduction in waste. This not only contributes to the brand’s profitability but also underscores its commitment to sustainable business practices, resonating positively with consumers who appreciate companies taking a stand for the planet.

Beyond product innovation and sustainability practices, personal care brands can embark on educational initiatives that empower consumers to make informed choices. Providing transparency about ingredient sourcing, manufacturing processes, and the overall environmental impact, brands can build a narrative that transcends products – it becomes a journey that consumers actively participate in. By fostering a culture of informed decision-making, brands position themselves not just as product providers but as educators and advocates for sustainable living.

Personal care brands can amplify their impact on sustainability by exploring collaborative efforts. Partnerships with suppliers, industry organizations, and even competitors can establish shared standards and practices, fostering a collective commitment to environmental responsibility. Such collaborative initiatives contribute not only to a positive industry image but also showcase a united front in addressing shared environmental challenges, underscoring the collective responsibility to create a sustainable future.

In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of personal care, the shift towards sustainability is not merely a challenge but an exhilarating and expansive opportunity for brands to redefine their narrative positively. By embracing this shift with foresight, personal care brands can foster deeper connections with consumers, amplify their reputations, and play an active and transformative role in shaping a sustainable future. The journey towards success in today’s market is not only feasible but also immensely rewarding for those who approach it with optimism, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to positive change.

Yatra extends Yatra Prime Membership for its shareholders

Gurugram, India | February 10, 2024: Yatra Online Limited (“Yatra”) today announced the offering of the complimentary Yatra Prime Membership to its Shareholders as on February 02, 2024. Yatra Prime, a game-changing subscription offering enhances the way customers experience travel with a wide range of exceptional benefits. This remarkable subscription offering sets Yatra apart as a trailblazer and aims to provide shareholders with exceptional benefits that will enhance their travel experience.

The Yatra Prime membership will be valid for six months from the date of its activation, unlocking a world of benefits and savings worth ₹15,999*. Key features of Yatra Prime membership encompass numerous benefits, such as No Convenience Fees on Domestic Flights, access to Special fares, VIP Customer support and Weekly surprise gifts. In addition to the exceptional benefits of Yatra Prime, subscribers can look forward to milestone-based rewards that further enhance the membership experience.

Dhruv Shringi, Whole-Time Director cum CEO – Yatra said, “We are excited to offer complimentary Yatra Prime subscription to our valued shareholders as a token of gratitude to those who have placed their trust in the company, acknowledging their contribution to our journey thus far. Yatra Prime comes with a host of benefits, and offers more value for less, making the overall travel experience convenient for our Shareholders.”

Given personalization is the latest key to unlock customer satisfaction & happiness, Yatra Prime goes beyond traditional travel offerings. As a Yatra Prime member, travellers can expect enhanced affordability with access to special fares on domestic flights.

Tata Hitachi Launches EX 210LC Prime – Crafting the Future of Excavation

Durgapur, 10th February 2024: Crafting the Future of Excavation­ – Building on a legacy of reliability and performance, the new advanced EX 210LC Prime inherits a strong lineage from its predecessors. With a history of proven durability and efficiency, this upgraded machine continues to uphold Tata Hitachi’s commitment to delivering high-quality construction equipment. The legacy of the EX 210LC series lays the foundation for the Prime’s reputation as a dependable and innovative solution for diverse construction needs.

hitachi

The launch took place at Peerless Inn City Centre, Durgapur, in presence of esteemed customers, senior management of Tata Hitachi, and Mitra Commercial & Automobiles LLP (Authorised Dealer Partner). With higher fuel efficiency, lower maintenance cost, and higher resale value, the all-new EX 210LC Prime promises highest return on investment to the customers in this category.

Regarding this launch event, Mr. BKR Prasad, General Manager – Marketing of Tata Hitachi, said:

‘’This ground-breaking addition to Tata Hitachi’s product line-up is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and its dedication to crafting the future of excavation. The EX 210LC Prime promises to elevate industry standards and set new benchmarks for excellence.’’

Vinod Cookware Unveils Wedding Season Essentials for Culinary Bliss

National, 10th February 2024 – As the wedding season approaches, Vinod Cookware, a leading name in the kitchenware industry, is delighted to present an exquisite array of culinary essentials tailored for the wedding season. With a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation, Vinod Cookware is dedicated to enhancing the joy of cooking and dining experiences, making every meal a celebration.

To ensure that newlyweds embark on their culinary journey with elegance and ease, Vinod Cookware introduces a range of products ideal for wedding gifting and personal use. Here are some highlights from our wedding season collection:

Kitchen in Box: Crafted to perfection, the Vinod Cookware Kitchen in Box is a comprehensive set comprising 25 essential pieces, including cookware, utensils, and accessories. From frying pans to saucepans, this all-in-one solution equips couples with everything they need to create culinary masterpieces effortlessly.

Bridal Set: Elevate the kitchen with the Vinod Hard Anodised Bridal Cookware Set, a collection of 5 pieces designed for durability and style. With its induction-friendly design, this set combines functionality with elegance, making it the perfect gift for the newlyweds embarking on their culinary journey.

Pressure Cooker Combo: Simplify meal preparation with the Vinod Combo Set, featuring a regular outer lid pressure cooker (3L) and a mini common lid pressure cooker (2L). Engineered for efficiency and safety, these pressure cookers are a must-have addition to any kitchen, offering convenience without compromising on taste.

Triply Sets: Discover the ultimate in culinary craftsmanship with the Vinod Platinum Triply Stainless Steel Combo Set. Engineered for professional-grade performance, this set of 2 pieces is induction-friendly and designed to deliver superior cooking results. From sautéing to simmering, unleash your culinary creativity with confidence.

Kraft Tableware Lunch/Dinner Range: Complete the dining experience with the Vinod Kraft Tableware Lunch/Dinner Range, featuring a stunning collection of dinner sets designed to add elegance to every meal. Crafted with precision and passion, these tableware sets are the epitome of style and sophistication.

Vinod Cookware is a leading manufacturer and distributor of premium kitchenware products, renowned for their quality, durability, and innovation. With a rich legacy spanning decades, Vinod Cookware is committed to empowering home cooks and culinary enthusiasts with tools that inspire creativity and elevate everyday cooking experiences.