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Central Bank of India, Today launched two initiatives, the Bank’s State-of-the-art, Integrated Customer Care (ICC) and a new Customer Care Number – 1800 30 30. This was followed by the launch of Advanced Collections Management (ACM) in Mumbai.

 The inauguration of both the new facilities for ICC and ACM was done by Shri M. V. Rao, MD & CEO in the presence of Shri M. V. Murali Krishna, Executive Director, Shri Mahendra Dohare, Executive Director, Shri E. Ratan Kumar, General Manager- IT Digital, Shri Satish Agarwal, General Manager-PDOD, Shri S. V. Mangrulkar, General Manager- Credit Mon. & Policy and other key executives.

 ICC Overview:

ICC is a one-stop solution for all the Bank’s Customer queries, whether it is a Service Request or Digital Support. ICC will also run and manage various awareness, sales, marketing, and promotional campaigns for the Bank.

 ACM Overview:

Bank also launched an end-to-end Advanced Collections Management that leverages Data-Powered Automation to maximize collections and minimize delinquency.

Pune, 6th February 2024: The students of Ryan international Academy, Hinjewadi branch have recently launched a year-long campaign, “Reduce Reuse Recycle Plastic” marking a significant step towards environmental sustainability goals.

 The student-led campaign was kicked off with 43 students and 11 teachers and collected 1000 kg of plastic waste from Yashwin & Tinsel Town Societies. The students took part in door-to-door garbage collection campaigns in all major apartments in the neighboring areas and raised awareness on waste management.

 Ryan International Academy, Pune zone has collaborated with Poonawalla Foundation for the recycling of waste plastic for reuse. In association with the Municipality and Poonawala foundation, Eco and Gardening Club unit of the school is raising awareness about various types of plastic including recyclable, and reusable.

 Speaking about this campaign, Sonika Kochhar Girotra, Principal, Ryan International Academy, Hinjewadi branch said, “As a part of this campaign, the school aims in fostering a culture of responsible waste management and community service. Ryan International Academy believes in nurturing the students with eco-consciousness to positively impact the world”.

India, 6th February 2024: Landmark Group, a leading retail and ecommerce conglomerate in the GCC, has entered into a strategic partnership with Addverb, a global leader in robotic and automation solutions, to modernise its Fulfilment centre in Kuwait.

With an established legacy, Landmark Group has consistently pioneered consumer experiences across MENA, India and Southeast Asia.

The integration of Addverb’s cutting-edge automation into the group’s Kuwait fulfilment centre not only enhances operational efficiency but also reinforces Landmark Group’s standing as an industry leader dedicated to delivering unparalleled customer satisfaction through ongoing innovation and strategic partnerships. The fulfilment centre now features an innovative automation solution, including a fleet of Zippy, Addverb’s robotic sorters, with a system throughput of up to 1,000 sorts per hour. Additionally, the centre utilises Quadron, Addverb’s carton shuttles, each boasting a throughput of up to 100 crates per hour.

In this innovative collaboration, the order fulfilment process begins with careful categorisation of items into bulky & non-bulky category. Post this, an automated conveyor is used to transfer non bulky items to get it sorted via Zippy system and move to the pack station. Additionally, mechanisms are defined in system for integrating bulky & non-bulky items at pack stations.

Addverb takes pride in contributing to Landmark Group’s vision for a future-ready fulfilment centre. This partnership exemplifies Addverb’s commitment to pioneering intelligent automation solutions that empower businesses to thrive in the digital age.

“Creating an adaptive and agile supply chain is part of our supply chain vision. We are happy to collaborate with Addverb to elevate our Kuwait fulfilment centre operations,” said Pawan Kaura, Head Ecommerce Operations, Landmark Group. “The integration of warehouse automation not only enhances our operational efficiency but also ensures that our customers receive their orders accurately and promptly. This investment in automation aligns with our commitment to delivering unparalleled service and experiences.”

“Partnering with the Landmark Group fills us with immense pride. This synergy reinforces our commitment to delivering state-of-the-art automation solutions and amplifies our dedication to efficiency, reliability, and accuracy. Landmark Group brings a wealth of expertise and a legacy of excellence to this strategic partnership. This collaboration is a testament to the trust and confidence that industry giants place in Addverb.” mentioned Pieter Feenstra, CEO of Addverb EMEA.

India, 06 February 2024: The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts unveiled its desk calendar for 2024 which has been designed in a unique partnership with Mouth and Foot Painting Artists Association (MFPA), an international registered society of disabled artists who create art with their mouth or foot.

 Conceptualized with the theme ‘Coming together to do good at The Leela’, the calendar showcases beautiful artistic narrations of the twelve iconic panoramas of The Leela hotels, painted by twelve boundlessly talented and specially-abled artists from MFPA. Each month uncovers the extraordinary charm of fine art that transports, page by page, into the mesmerizing world of The Leela featuring grand architecture and verdant landscapes.

 Rooted in the timeless ethos of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava – Guest is God’, The Leela has been on a continuous journey to redefine luxury through a lens of responsibility and sustainability. This collaboration highlights the brand’s commitment for contributing towards community development through meaningful partnerships.

 Speaking on this remarkable association, Mr. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, said, “The understanding of luxury has evolved over time from being only material focused to being more enriching. As a true Indian luxury brand, we at The Leela recognize this shift and the profound impact it has on the communities around us. We are grateful to Mouth and Foot Painting Artists for their creative contribution in designing our annual calendar. It is not just impressive but rather inspiring to witness the art created by these differently-abled artists. We look forward to our association with MFPA and supporting their artists through various endeavours.”

 Mr. Bobby Thomas, Country Head, Mouth and Foot Painting Artists Association, India, added, “We are delighted to have partnered with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts for their annual desk calendars and thank them for providing a platform for our artists to showcase their talent. It’s a matter of pride for us to have the work of our artists form a part of The Leela spaces. We hope that the guests of The Leela appreciate these paintings as much as our artists enjoyed creating them.”

 Know about the story behind every artwork of The Leela Calendar and the artist
who created it:

•   Pralay Dey, Foot Artist and member of MFPA since 2022, recreates the intricately crafted porte cochère at The Leela Palace Bengaluru, an architectural marvel inspired by the grandeur of the Mysore Palace.
• Associated with MFPA since 1988, senior Mouth Artist Ganesh Kumar presents an artistic rendering of the inner courtyard of The Leela Palace Chennai, with all its intricacies and beauty.
•  Nadeem Riyasat Ali Shaikh, Foot Artist at MFPA since 2008 depicts the architectural elegance of The Leela Palace Jaipur in its beautiful silver-domed splendour.
•  Kanmony S, Foot Artist and a relatively new member of MFPA has brought forth The Leela Palace New Delhi’s regal magnificence and contemporary luxury in her beautiful painting of the rooftop pool.
•  Sunitha Thrippanikkara, Mouth Artist and member of MFPA since 2004 pays tribute to the land of the Mewars with her exquisite depiction of the flower-laden outer courtyard at The Leela Palace Udaipur.
•  A member of MFPA since 1999, Foot Artist Swapna Augustine illustrates the serene beauty of The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru, an urban paradise within the city’s largest integrated township.
•  Foot Artist Jagwinder Singh is a prospective National Para Cyclist who joined MFPA in 2020. He beautifully captures the contemporary elegance of The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi on his canvas.
•  An award-winning Foot Artist, Bandenawaz Badshah Nadaf is the talent behind the beautiful rendition of The Leela Gandhinagar, a modern hotel built atop the concourse of the Gandhinagar Railway Station.
•  Mouth Artist and member of MFPA since 2013, Srilekha Mandalapalli recreates the sophistication of The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences, the best destination for urban luxury seekers.
•  Mouth and Foot Artist Manoj Bhingare does full justice to his degree in Fine Arts in creating this beautiful painting of The Leela Mumbai with its imposing structure amidst lush gardens.
•  Jesfer Pulikkathody, a Mouth Artist at MFPA since 2009 perfectly captures the rustic charm and luxurious detailing of The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel.
•  Foot Artist and member of MFPA since 2015, Vyshak K creates this stunning rendition of The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel showcasing its iconic location.

  The Leela is the essence of true Indian hospitality imbued with a distinct aesthetic that celebrates the country’s traditions, art, cuisine, artisanal craft, and culture and is rooted in its offerings of India’s rich legacy to all its esteemed guests. As the brand gears up to embrace the next phase of its growth trajectory, it continues to evolve and focus on experiential and conscious luxury while remaining true to its ethos of “Atithi Devo Bhava – Guest is God.”

Mumbai, 6th February 2024 – Welspun Living Ltd, a leading player in Home Textiles, Flooring Solutions, and Advanced Textiles, announces the appointment of Mr. Sunil Duggal as an Independent Director, effective from January 31, 2024.

Mr. Duggal will serve his first term as an Independent Director for four years, ending on January 30, 2028. Mr. Duggal is an accomplished leader, with a Bachelor of Technology Hons. (Electrical Engineering) from BITS, Pilani, and a postgraduate diploma in Business Management (Marketing) from the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta.

His extensive experience, spanning decades, includes a remarkable 17-year tenure as CEO of Dabur India Limited. He has also chaired and cochaired significant committees, such as Indo-Turkish JBC and FICCI Committee on Food Processing. Mr. Duggal has been recognized as FMCG CEO of the year thrice and was awarded the Distinguished Alumnus Award by the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta in 2019. His expertise will be invaluable to Welspun Living Ltd.

“Dipali Goenka, CEO & MD of Welspun Living, on the appointment of Sunil Duggal said, I am delighted to welcome Sunil Duggal to Welspun’s Board of Directors. His extensive experience, particularly in steering Dabur’s success, aligns seamlessly with our commitment to elevating Welspun’s B2C journey. As we embark on this transformative phase, his consumer-centric perspective and experience in building strong consumer connections resonates perfectly with Welspun’s vision. His insights into consumer behavior and market dynamics will be instrumental as we continue to innovate and cater to the evolving needs of our audience. Together, we are poised to strengthen Welspun’s position in the market, combining our passion for quality with Sunil’s wealth of experience. I look forward to working with him

Joining as an independent director with Welspun Living, Mr. Duggal added, “As an Independent Director, I am truly excited to contribute my experience and knowledge to Welspun Living’s diversified brand portfolio, fostering growth and ensuring success. The company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability is truly inspiring, aligning seamlessly with my values. I am eager to embark on this exciting journey, working collaboratively to further elevate Welspun Living’s impact in the industry.”

The recent RBI’s directive to Paytm Payments Bank may have caused confusion, users must know that the Paytm app is working and will keep working as usual beyond Feb 29th, 2024 also. They can continue using services on the Paytm app without interruption, such as QR code, Soundbox, Card Machine, online payments, among others.

 Given below are some frequently asked questions, which will clear the confusion among users regarding the Paytm app and Paytm Payments Bank.

 Can I continue to use Paytm to do recharges and pay my bills?

Yes, absolutely! You can continue using Paytm App for all your bill payments and recharges, like always. Rest assured, Paytm continues to support a wide range of payment options for your convenience.

 Can I continue to avail all other services on Paytm App such Movie ticket bookings, financial services etc?

All other services on Paytm App are unaffected, you can continue to use them on Paytm as usual, now and beyond Feb 29th, 2024.

 Can I continue to use UPI on Paytm app?

Absolutely! You can continue using UPI services on your Paytm App without any interruption. You can make QR code payment across stores, online payments and send money.

Will Paytm QR work as before?

Your Paytm QR is exactly the same as before. Please continue using Paytm QR to accept fast, secure, and safe payments without any worries. All Paytm devices and services are operating as usual.

 Will SoundBox and Paytm Card machine work as before?

Yes, our offline merchant payment network offerings like Paytm QR, Paytm Soundbox, and Paytm Card Machine, are working exactly as earlier. You can accept payments with ease on them. Do not worry, your money is safe with us.

 Can I continue to use Paytm Payments Bank Wallet?

Yes, you can continue to use Paytm Payments Bank Wallet services. Please note that you will not be able to add money to your Paytm Payments Bank Wallet after Feb 29th, 2024. However, there is no restriction on usage of existing balance from your wallet even after Feb 29th, 2024.

The inauguration was conducted by the Hon. Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, at The National Gallery of Modern Art in collaboration with the Museum of Sacred Art (MOSA) Belgium, presented the “SHAKTI: Fair and Fierce” exhibition, curated by Sushma K. Bahl. The event took place at the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi, . The exhibition was presented by Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, Director-General of NGMA, New Delhi, and Martin Gurvich, Director of MOSA, Belgium. Minister Meenakshi Lekhi emphasized that the exhibition paid homage to India’s artistic heritage, highlighting the enduring power of women’s strength, creativity, and the beauty inherent in their creative expressions. The diverse artworks on display showcased significant embroidery traditions from various regions of India, including Rabari from Kutch, Chamba Rumal from Himachal Pradesh, Kantha from West Bengal, Sujini and Khatwa from Bihar, and Pashmina from Kashmir. Minister Lekhi encouraged all to participate in this cultural celebration, expressing that the presence of attendees would contribute to the depth and vibrancy of the acknowledgment of ‘Nari Shakti in the Amrit Kaal.’ The exhibition was open to the public until 31 March–

Shark Tank India Season 3 started premiering on January 22, 2024, showcasing a diverse array of pitches and narratives from emerging entrepreneurs. With a lineup of 12 Sharks in the latest season, the pool of guidance and support for aspiring entrepreneurs has doubled up, promising enhanced mentorship and opportunities.

Amit Jain, the Founder and CEO of CarDekho, has been an integral part of this journey since Season 2, offering investment and mentorship to ventures spanning various sectors. Amit’s commitment to nurturing and empowering young entrepreneurs has been a cornerstone of his involvement. His investment decisions are often guided by a shared ethos of determination, creativity, and sustainability. The same was seen in the very first episode of Shark Tank India Season 3 where Amit saw a connection between himself and the sustainable business philosophy of The Honest Home Company founder Mayank Sisodia.

In Season 3, Episode 8 of Shark Tank India, Amit’s dedication to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs was evident in his interaction with Anuva Kakkar, the founder of Tiggle. Acknowledging the importance of fostering an ecosystem that uplifts visionary entrepreneurs like Kakkar, Amit said, “Magar iss show par aakar maine aap jaise entrepreneur ko support nahi kiya toh mere yahan aane ka faida hi nahi.” Tiggle, which offers vegan and dairy-free ready-to-make hot chocolate mixes, represents a promising player in the rapidly evolving market landscape.

Among the ventures Jain backed in the previous season are notable names like Mopp India, Licksters, Maisha Lifestyle, Ekatra, and Gladful, showcasing his diverse portfolio and unwavering commitment to driving innovation and success in the Indian startup ecosystem.

Read about Amit Jain’s learnings from the three pitches below:

Tiggle:

The episode started on a sweet note with Anuva Kakkar, founder of Tiggle, pitching her brand that sells ready-to-make hot chocolate mixes. Her pitch was solid, the packaging was on point, and the chocolate tasted really good. Plus, being vegan and dairy-free, Tiggle is catering to a fast-growing market and has a bright future, even more so if they focus more on targeting their products to kids, in my opinion.

Anuva’s story was also inspiring. It was inspiring to hear her bootstrapped story. This is how I feel any startup story begins, with the founder trying to find product market fit. She started from a small room and sold her first batch with a steel jar in hand at a bustling Gurgaon metro station within 40-50 minutes. It showcased the demand and appeal of Tiggle and her ambition. She lives the dream of every entrepreneur – turning their passion into a startup.

I definitely appreciated Anuva coming prepared with precise unit economic data and dressed to match her brand! Her grip on her numbers was just amazing to see. I love such founders with this level of attention to detail. Glad I partnered with Peyush and sealed the deal with Tiggle. It’s a bet on Anuva’s entrepreneurial passion to create not just good products but a good culture – be it a team of 9 or 9000, her strong potential, and a delicious future for Tiggle. Because like always, Pehle Banda, Phir Dhanda!

WYLD:

Next came WYLD, a Visa-powered social currency card, founded by IIT-B alumni, offering cashback for Instagram posts. I loved their idea, especially gestures like customised cards that read ‘Founder Member’, but I think execution is key. They had the right partnerships in place, and their algorithms for assigning “WYLD scores” seemed great. I loved the way they solved working capital by getting money to pay cashback from brands in advance.

I appreciate the founders, their love for tech and their ambitions – they were young, adaptable, and loaded with energy. Namita and Anupam saw the potential too. I gave them an offer, but they went ahead with Anupam’s offer. It will be interesting to see them turn those influencer dreams into reality. I wish them all the best.

Upliance.ai:

Lastly, we had Upliance.ai, an AI-powered personal cooking assistant. Now, I love AI & innovation, but this one wasn’t for me because I found the AI bit missing. While the technology and patented recipes were interesting, the price point and lack of market fit raised questions. It’s great that they have a feedback system in place, but is it enough to justify the cost? The limited market and slow growth raised more questions.

AI is surely going to be a game-changer, but it needs to solve real problems and offer value at a reasonable price. Upliance.ai has to cover some distance to get there. I do hope they adapt and get there eventually!

Overall, the episode was a mixed bag of promise, treats, tech and more. And that’s the beauty of Shark Tank. Stay tuned for more Shark Tales!

National 6th February’24: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) organized Cancer Awareness Event, on the occasion of World Cancer Day which falls on Feb 4 every year. The workshop was a part of JICA’s “Achhi Aadat (Good Habit) Campaign”— a campaign which aims to educate and raise awareness about the significance of hygiene in preventing diseases. Aligned with the upcoming World Cancer Day, the event aimed to impart knowledge to school children aged 15 years and above. More than 200 students of Sarvodaya (Co-ed) Senior Secondary School in Patparganj attended the event.

Several interactive activities were organized to contextualize cancer to school children and enhance their awareness. During the workshop, children were shown a video which explained the social determinants of cancer. JICA representatives and Physicians expounded on significance of early detection. Through a ‘Nukkad Natak’, health-promoting factors as well as the importance of community support for cancer patients was also displayed. Overall, the event aimed to provide comprehensive insight to children about cancer, with special emphasis on the importance of early detection.

New Delhi, 6 February 2024, Union Bank of India proudly announces its achievement of the Payment Card Industry PIN Transaction Security (PCI PIN) certification. This certification underscores Union Bank’s proactive approach to implementing robust security measures and adhering to industry-leading standards to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of all transactions processed through our systems.

PCI PIN certification is a set of security standards established to protect the processing and transmission of card PINs used in transactions. This certification ensures that systems and devices involved in PIN processing comply with security standards set forth by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to safeguard customer’s sensitive information.

Union Bank of India has consistently demonstrated its commitment to implementing industry-leading practices aligned with international standards for managing its information systems. By adhering to stringent security measures and continuously evolving its security protocols to meet emerging threats, Union Bank of India aims to strengthen customer trust and uphold the integrity of all sensitive data entrusted to the bank.

Union Bank of India’s systems, processes and IT facilities are also ISO27001:2013, ISO22301:2019, ISO31000:2018, ISO 27701:2019 & PCI-DSS certified by international certification bodies which provide safe, secure and resilient Banking experience to its customers.