Mitsui’s Umezawa Nobuyoshi joins EKA Mobility as Chief Strategy Officer

Mumbai, Wednesday, 7th March 2024: EKA Mobility, a leading player in the electric mobility sector with Mitsui Co., Ltd. (Japan) & VDL Groep (Netherlands) as equity partners, is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Nobuyoshi Umezawa as Chief Strategy Officer.

Mr. Umezawa brings extensive experience and knowledge in international business, project management, and investment portfolio management. Mr. Umezawa began his professional career in 1996 with Mitsui & Co. Ltd, where he played a key role in a variety of infrastructure and mobility projects throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Russia, and elsewhere. His primary areas of competence are project management of turnkey EPC contracts, investment in PPP/PFI projects, and project financing.

Throughout his career, Mr. Umezawa has served on the boards of several prominent organizations, including passenger railway operators in the United Kingdom, commercial vehicle leasing companies in Latin America, industrial machinery distributors in the United States, and logistics and finance entities in India, among others.

Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder & Chairman, EKA Mobility, said, “We welcome Mr. Umezawa to the EKA Mobility family. With his wealth of experience, strategic insight, and having undertaken various overseas assignments, Mr. Umezawa has garnered invaluable insights and a global perspective that will undoubtedly contribute to the strategic growth and development of EKA Mobility.”

Mr. Umezawa Nobuyoshi, EKA Mobility’s Chief Strategy Officer, stated, “I am honored to join the dynamic team at EKA Mobility.” I am looking forward to using my knowledge to drive strategic initiatives that will advance the company’s development both in India and overseas markets. “

Manipal Institute of Technology Partners with Altair for Advanced Mechatronics Training and Research

Manipal, March 7, 2024 – The Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), under the aegis of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), has announced a strategic collaboration with Altair, Bangalore, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to set a new benchmark in engineering education and research, with a focus on the burgeoning field of mechatronic systems. Altair, a global leader in simulation, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence (AI), joins hands with MIT to fuse industry-leading technological prowess with academic excellence. The collaboration is designed to enrich the learning and research environment for students and faculty by providing them with access to state-of-the-art software solutions and training programs from Altair. This initiative will enable practical exposure to mechatronics design, analysis, and optimization processes.

Signing of MAHE-Altair MoU

The formalization of this partnership was commemorated with a signing ceremony attended by esteemed representatives from both organizations. Dignitaries included Dr. P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE, Manipal; Dr. Harish S. Kumar, Director-Corporate Relations, MAHE; Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, Director, MIT; Dr. Somashekar Bhat, Joint Director, MIT; Dr. D. V. Kamath, Head of the Mechatronics Department; and Mr. Sushil Mane, Senior Technical Director at Altair; Mr. Ranjith Kumar H S, Sr. Sales Manager, Altair, among others.

Coinciding with the partnership, a new Postgraduate Laboratory in the Department of Mechatronics at MIT was inaugurated by Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, marking the beginning of this promising alliance. The inauguration was accompanied by a traditional Sharada Pooja, signifying the auspicious start of the collaboration.

A key component of this partnership is the training program on “Design of High-Performance Mechatronic Systems using Altair’s Simulation and Artificial Intelligence Platform,” scheduled from March 4th to 8th, 2024. This program, inaugurated at the M V Seminar Hall in MIT Manipal, seeks to upgrade knowledge in the design and development of mechatronics systems, touching upon critical areas such as AI-assisted simulation, IIOT, and digital twins. Mr. Sushil Mane, representing Altair as the chief guest, alongside Mr. Ranjith Kumar H. S. and Cdr. (Dr.) Anil Rana, highlighted the significance of this collaboration in preparing students for the future challenges of engineering.

Both MIT and Altair have expressed great enthusiasm for their joint venture, emphasizing its potential to significantly narrow the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice. This collaboration is not just a step towards enhancing the quality of engineering education but also a milestone in ensuring that students and faculty are equipped to drive innovation and tackle complex challenges in the field of mechatronics.

Flute Maestro Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia to be the face of TRU Realty’s Kekarav Project at Pune

Pune…March, 2024… Kekarav, Pune’s most esteemed gated villa community at Bavdhan City-front by TRU Realty, is proud to announce its groundbreaking collaboration with Flute Maestro Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia for an inspiring campaign that celebrates the harmony of nature and lifestyle. TRU Realty leverages both sector expertise and cutting-edge technology to unite visionaries, creators, and clients, empowering every participant in the real estate ecosystem.

Tru Realty

The campaign, titled “Discovering Life’s Harmony with Nature,” embodies the essence of enrichment and rhythm, two pivotal elements that define Kekarav’s unique living experience. With a focus on reimagining elevated living, the campaign aims to resonate with individuals seeking a harmonious blend of luxury and nature.

“Life matching the energy with nature” is the core message of the campaign, encapsulating the melody of nature that transforms life into a melodious symphony. Through captivating visuals and evocative storytelling, the campaign invites individuals to embrace the rhythm of nature and discover the enriching lifestyle offered by Kekarav. Spanning an expansive 45 acres, Kekarav promises to be a sprawling haven amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. Divided into 4 distinct sectors/phases, this visionary project offers a total of 300 exclusive units, ranging from 2000 sqft to 7000 sqft in plot size.

“We believe in creating spaces that resonate with the rhythm of nature, elevating the living experience to new heights,” said Sujay Kalele, Founder, TRU Realty said. “Our collaboration with Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia signifies our commitment to fostering a lifestyle that harmonizes with the natural world.”

The campaign will unfold through a series of multimedia initiatives, including films that capture the serene beauty of Kekarav’s amenity spaces. The precursor film sets the tone for the campaign, offering a candid glimpse into the enchanting world of Kekarav, where Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia’s mesmerizing flute tunes intertwine with the symphony of nature.

In subsequent films, viewers will be treated to immersive experiences in Kekarav’s amphitheater and pet park, where the rhythm of life finds expression through music, dance, and playful interactions.

With a staggering 166 units already sold out, the demand for this harmonious lifestyle enclave is palpable, setting a new standard for luxurious living intertwined with nature’s melody. As the campaign “Finding the Rhythm of Life with Nature” takes flight, it is evident that Kekarav not only captures the imagination but also fulfills the desires of those seeking a sanctuary where modernity meets tranquility.

CrowdStrike to Acquire Flow Security to Expand Its Cloud Security Leadership with Data Security Posture Management (DSPM)

BENGALURU, India – March 7, 2024 – CrowdStrike announced it has agreed to acquire Flow Security, the industry’s first and only cloud data runtime security solution. With this acquisition, CrowdStrike is setting the standard for modern cloud security with comprehensive real-time data protection spanning endpoint and cloud environments, delivering the only cloud data protection platform that secures data in all states, both at rest and in motion.

An organization’s most critical information remains the primary target of the adversary. As businesses use more data than ever, the growing reliance on cloud has led to the distribution of data across cloud- based services, third-party APIs and GenAI applications. Adversaries are increasingly becoming adept at exploiting the gaps created by stitched together platforms and cloud point-products to target and steal sensitive data. Stopping breaches requires a unified security platform that natively protects data at rest and in motion as it flows through the cloud, on-prem and within applications. With the acquisition of Flow Security and by bringing data security posture management (DSPM) to the CrowdStrike Falcon® XDR platform, CrowdStrike is setting a new standard for modern cloud security with data security innovations that discover, classify, and protect data in all states from the risk of exposure, wherever it moves or resides.

“CrowdStrike was born in the cloud and pioneered cloud-native cybersecurity. We have been consistently recognized as the strategic leader in cloud security by delivering the outcomes customers need most from a single, unified platform,” said George Kurtz, co-founder and CEO of CrowdStrike. “With the acquisition of Flow Security, we’re expanding our cloud leadership by protecting data in all states as it flows through the cloud, and are redefining the future of data protection by securing data from code, to application, to device and cloud.”

“Since our founding, Flow Security has focused on removing the complexity of securing the massive amounts of critical data businesses manage daily. We saw that the market lacked a solution that provided comprehensive protection of the flow of data as it traversed SaaS applications, on-prem, cloud infrastructure, third-party APIs, etc., and that this lack of visibility and control presented a critical risk to the enterprise,” said Jonathan Roizin, CEO of Flow Security. “We look forward to working with the cloud security leader, CrowdStrike, to bring to market the most extensive cloud data protection solution.”

With the acquisition of Flow Security, the CrowdStrike Falcon platform is poised to become the industry’s most comprehensive data security platform. Following the closing of the acquisition, CrowdStrike plans to fully deliver native Flow Security DSPM capabilities in Falcon Cloud Security as part of the Falcon XDR platform, enabling customers to consolidate cloud point solutions and protect the entire cloud estate. Through this, CrowdStrike will provide visibility into critical cloud data flows, insight into how data interacts with applications, and the ability to detect when sensitive data is at risk or unintentionally leaving an environment.

Transaction Details
The purchase price will be paid predominantly in cash, with a portion delivered in the form of equity subject to vesting conditions. The proposed acquisition is expected to close during CrowdStrike’s fiscal first quarter, subject to customary closing conditions.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including statements regarding the benefits of the acquisition to CrowdStrike and its customers, CrowdStrike’s plans to integrate Flow Security’s technology and operations, and the closing of the acquisition. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those contemplated as a result of risks and uncertainties. There are a number of factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from statements made in this press release, including the satisfaction of conditions to closing the acquisition, CrowdStrike’s ability to integrate Flow Security’s technology and operations, and other risks described in the filings CrowdStrike makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, including CrowdStrike’s most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and subsequent filings. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to CrowdStrike as of the date hereof, and CrowdStrike does not assume any obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

Samsung to Unveil Two New Galaxy A Series Smartphones on March 11

BENGALURU, India – March 7, 2024: Samsung, India’s largest electronics brand, is set to launch two new Galaxy A series smartphones on March 11. The two new smartphones will add to Samsung’s immensely popular Galaxy A series, helping Samsung democratize innovations. The smartphones will come with flagship features, premium design and powerful processors, ensuring a premium experience for the users.

Iconic Design and Durability

The two Galaxy A series smartphones will feature flagship-inspired design, built with premium materials. Both the smartphones will come with IP67 rating for spill resistance and will be protected by a stronger Gorilla Glass compared to last year’s Gorilla Glass 5.

Advanced Nightography

Both the new Galaxy A series smartphones will feature an advanced camera for nightography, which will help consumers shoot sharper images and videos even in extreme low light conditions.

Powerful Processor

The new Galaxy A series smartphones will be equipped with powerful processors and large vapour cooling chambers, ensuring a smooth and seamless usage experience.

Future Safe

The two new Galaxy A series smartphones will ensure top-notch security with Samsung’s defense-grade security platform Knox, which will protect users personal data in real-time. The smartphones will also offer four OS updates and five years of security updates, ensuring that the devices remain up-to-date for a long time.

Innovative ideas in the developmental sector flourish with SIDBI support: SIDBI announces support to entities for promotion of grassroot level enterprises

Hyderabad, March 07, 2023 – In a landmark convergence of innovation and impact, SIDBI announced support to 12 grassroot level organisations from across the country aimed at catalysing positive change in society and communities through a Challenge Fund and investment through Social Stock Exchange (SSE).

SIDBI, Event, announces support to entities for promotion of grassroot level enterprises

The event was graced by Shri Subhas Chandra Lal Das, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of MSME, GoI; Ms. Christina Scott, CMG, Deputy High Commissioner to India, British High Commission alongwith Shri Sivasubramanian Ramann, Chairman and Managing Director, SIDBI; Shri Prakash Kumar, Deputy Managing Director, SIDBI; Smt. Vineeta Sahay, Director, IIM Bodhgaya and Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu.

Out of a large number of entries received from across the country, SIDBI announced grant support under its Swavalamban Challenge Fund Series – III to 10 agencies selected through rigorous evaluation process by independent jury, recognizing their innovative promising ideas revolving around the themes of ‘Innovations in Livelihoods & Financial Inclusion’, ‘Enterprise Solutions for Building Rural Economy’, ‘Special Category Entrepreneurship Promotion’, ‘Strengthening Market Connect for Artisans’ & ‘Sustainable Initiatives for Enterprise Creation & Social Cause’.

SIDBI Swavalamban Challenge Fund is a competitive mechanism to crowd-source innovative and outcome driven solutions to developmental challenges with an aim to provide financial support to eligible entities and act as a catalyst for change. Through this intervention, SIDBI affirms its commitment to nurturing visionary ideas that have the potential to transform lives and communities.

Further, recognizing the transformative power of finance for social work, SIDBI proudly announces its investment in 2 organizations viz., TRIF & Mukti via the emerging Social Stock Exchange (SSE). CMD, SIDBI digitally transferred the investment to the Escrow accounts of these entities in exchange of Zero Coupon Zero Principal Bonds. SIDBI aims to channelize capital towards enterprise and initiatives that prioritize social and environmental impact through the innovative mechanisms of SSE.

Additionally, SIDBI celebrates the launch of its report ‘SRF Projects Through Gender Lens 2020-2024’, a comprehensive review of SIDBI’s gender focused grass root level initiatives through its various programs of development and impact. This report highlights various models adopted by the bank to positively impact the lives of women particularly from unserved/underserved sections to bring a radical shift in their outlook and approach towards entrepreneurship and transforming them from Job seekers to Job creators.

Speaking at the event, Shri Subhas Chandra Lal Das, IAS, Honourable Secretary, Ministry of MSME, GoI emphasized the importance of MSMEs for the economic progress and the to address the challenges faced by them. He appreciated SIDBI for its interventions in the MSME space and its pivotal role in supporting the value chain of MSMEs through its cutting-edge innovations and last mile connectivity at grassroot level which is a force multiplier.

Speaking at the event, Shri Sivasubramanian Ramann, Chairman and Managing Director, SIDBI in his address, reiterated SIDBI’s commitment to supporting the innovative ideas and enterprises and mentioned that Swavalamban Challenge Fund is a step in that direction. He highlighted the issues of MSMEs viz., credit and market linkage and cost of that credit and huge strides SIDBI has taken to help MSMEs overcome these challenges and assured SIDBI’s support till the last mile through NGOs, MSMEs and Social impact organizations.

Ms. Christina Scott, CMG, Deputy High Commissioner to India, British High Commission emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship and start-ups in partnership with India. She stressed the need for collaborative efforts between the government and private sector to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurs to thrive. She re-iterated that gender, inclusion, and diversity are at the heart of the investments made for economic growth. She expressed her gratitude to SIDBI by supporting the development at the grassroot level which led to manifold growth.

Victorinox Wishes IDCA Team the Best ahead of World Cup 2024

Victorinox was immensely proud to welcome the India Deaf Cricket Association Team to the Gute Reise Store in Delhi, on the 26th Of February, to wish them luck before they proceeded to Sharjah for the World Cup.

victronix

A tour of the store included a stop at the history wall where all the players were fascinated to discover the 140-year-old legacy of Victorinox, a fourth-generation family run company.

Fun and camaraderie presided over high tea, hearty laughter, and huge smiles.

Debraj Sengupta, Chief Marketing Officer-Brand & Country Head – Watch, Victorinox India presented the IDCA Team with personalized Swiss Army Knives- to be prepared for any circumstance- and outfitted the players with suitcases for their journey.

Present on the occasion at the store along with the Cricket team were. Debraj Sengupta- Chief Marketing Officer-Brand & Country Head – Watch, Victorinox India, Priyanka Sippy-Vice President PR Communication, Victorinox India, Sumit Jain, President- IDCA, Reena Jain Malhotra, Patron- IDCA, Roma Balwani, CEO & Brand Custodian- IDCA, Vineet Malhotra, Vice Chairman- IDCA, Ajay Kumar, Secretary- IDCA and the players.

On the occasion, Mr Debraj Sengupta, Chief Marketing Officer-Brand & Country Head – Watch said, “Victorinox is very honoured to welcome the IDCA Team to the Gute Reise Store at Worldmark, Aerocity, New Delhi. We hope our products empower them on their journey and we wish them the absolute best for the World Cup!”

On the occasion, Roma Balwani, CEO & Brand Custodian, IDCA said, “IDCA India team is delighted to collaborate with Victorinox, India as our support partner for the IDCA India team participating in the DICC T 20 World Cup 2024, UAE in Sharjah. The teams are very thankful for the opportunity to visit to their store at Worldmark, Aerocity. It was a special occasion as the leadership team felicitated our national team with their signature Swiss knife engraved with their names & also gifted all players suitcases which they will all carry during their travel to Sharjah. She added, “We hope to have a long-term collaboration which will motivate our teams & help promote diversity & inclusion for disability sports, especially cricket.”

A Boom In Kolkata Interiors Market – Experts Expect Growth Trajectory for 2024

With Kolkata witnessing steady economic growth, leading to an increase in disposable income among its residents, this has also led to a booming interior design market. With more spending power, people are willing to invest in improving their living spaces. The real estate market in Kolkata has been expanding, with new residential and commercial projects emerging across the city. This has created a demand for interior design services to make these spaces aesthetically appealing and functional.

Bengal’s home décor market accounts for about Rs 19,000 crore with Kolkata garnering a significant share of nearly 80 per cent which is at Rs 15,000 crore. In this current fiscal, the country has amassed nearly Rs 65,000 crore revenue.

Elaborating on the current market scenario, Mr. Namit Bajoria, Kutchina MD mentioned interior designing has now become one of the most important of the lot with people keeping extra amounts while buying properties. Just like fashion trends, there’s also trending types for interiors, “The growth factors are high because designs are emerging constantly. We started as Kitchen solutions but with the demand we have also incorporated high-end interior solutions along with new theme-based kitchen solutions. People like to go for those who can provide you with kitchen solutions as well as interiors.”

On a similar note, Mr. Indranil Dey, Managing Director, Irony Home Studio said, “The interior decoration business in Kolkata is growing rapidly and has become quite competitive in recent years. The city is witnessing a surge in demand for professional interior designers and decorators due to the increasing awareness and aspirations of people towards creating aesthetically pleasing living and working spaces. Additionally, the rise of online home decor platforms and social media has influenced people’s interest in interior design, leading to a rise in the number of potential clients.”

Several experts and interior design entrepreneurs observe that there were times when people used to design on their own. But now with limited space in apartments, people are also thinking of space-saving creative designs from an expert. Hence there are several budding interior designers.

Mr. Abhijit Saha, Owner – Decoflor said, “In terms of changes, there has been a notable shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly designs. People are becoming more conscious of their environmental impact and are seeking eco-conscious materials and practices for their interiors. As for the future, the interior decoration business in Kolkata is expected to continue growing. The industry will likely witness more collaborations between interior designers, architects, and technology experts.”

Ms Khushboo Shah, Co-Founder – The Mark Décor cited that present day customers are seeking unique and personalized interior designs that reflect their individual style and personality. “There is a growing awareness about sustainable and eco-friendly design practices. Many customers are now opting for environmentally conscious materials and energy-efficient solutions. The rise of social media platforms and online marketplaces has made it easier for interior designers to showcase their work and reach a wider audience. Additionally, the incorporation of biophilic design elements to bring nature indoors and designing multifunctional spaces are expected to be popular trends.”

FTCCI to organise a program on GST & Tax–Implications on Land Ownership

Hyderabad, March 7, 2024……FTCCI is to organise a program on GST & Tax–Implications on Land Ownership on Thursday at 3 pm at KLN Prasad Auditorium, Federation House, Red Hills.

M. Srinivas, IRS, Principal Chief Commissioner (retd), Central GST will be among others who will grace the function

The Programme is designed to understand the procedure and rights during the search operations under GST & Income Tax Act and with panel discussion on the Implications of GST on the land owner share of built-up area.

This Program also discusses on GST tax structure regarding Real-estate, understanding the value, time and place of Supply of Land under GST Law, its Input Tax Credit Provisions, GST on Joint Development Agreement, GST implications on the Sale of Developed Plot of Land & Renting and Leasing of Land, the impact of GST on the Real-estate Sector, Search Operation Procedures under GST & Income Tax Act and rights possessed by the assessee.see.

ndian Revival Group Captivates Audience with “Parashuram” at Ramayangatha Festival

New Delhi, March 7th, 2024 – The Indian Revival Group (IRG) captivated audiences at the Ramayangatha – Festival of Visual and Performance Arts with their spellbinding dance drama “Parashuram” on Monday, March 4th, 2024.

Held at the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) Jaipur House as part of the Ramayanam Chitrakavyam inauguration ceremony, the performance featured renowned artist Shashidharan Nair in the titular role.

“Parashuram” received a thunderous applause from the audience, including Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Gautam, Director General of NGMA. Praising the performance, Dr. Gautam stated, “The presentation of Parashuram was superb, and NGMA looks forward to planning more such festivals in the future.”

Shashidharan Nair, expressing his delight at revisiting the character of Parashuram, said, “It was wonderful to perform for NGMA at the Ramayangatha Festival. This is a very complex character and has many facets to itself. While it is challenging to appropriately portray this character it also becomes a delight for an artist to bring out all the shades there are that complete it.”

The Indian Revival Group, a premier dance-drama ensemble with a 75-year legacy, is dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage through captivating performances both nationally and internationally. Their founder, the esteemed Guru Shri Yog Sundar Desai, is a recipient of the prestigious National Award, further acknowledging their significant contribution to the arts.