Bengaluru,26th June 2023 The real estate sector has a lot to contribute towards net zero goals being set by countries across the world. It can play a pivotal role in creating a sustainable world for future generations, provided it receives adequate regulatory support from the government.

Mr. Mallanna Sasalu, COO, Provident Housing Limited, addressed this and other relevant points on how the sector can improve upon its present level of carbon emissions, as part of a panel titled, ‘A Roadmap to Achieve Net Zero Goals’, at the 24th International Conference on Environment Management and Climate Change, organised by the Institute of Directors (IOD), in Bengaluru on Thursday.

“It is imperative for real estate players to acknowledge the environmental impact of urban development and take proactive measures to mitigate the harm caused due to construction activities. We must look at innovative ways for optimal usage of natural resources like air, water, and solar energy, and for dealing with pressing issues like solid waste management. Our commitment to sustainable development is important and with adequate support from statutory regulators, it is achievable,” Mr. Sasalu said.

Further, citing the example of the Shivanasamudra hydro-electric project, which lit up Bengaluru streets in the early 1900s, he said, “Investments in terms of climate goals should be looked at from long-term perspectives. If the patrons who funded the Shivanasamudra project back then had looked at immediate profits, we would not have had electricity on Bengaluru’s streets so early in the century. Thus, any investments into creating a sustainable world should be seen from the lens of Total Economic Value (TEV) in the long run because the returns are exponential.”

Mr. Sasalu also touched upon several sustainable practices that Provident Housing follows, such as the treatment and reuse of wastewater, waste segregation at the source, rainwater harvesting, and their latest commitment of one tree per family in all their upcoming projects.

During the session, Mr. Shaji K V, Chairman of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) emphasised the commitment of India to become a net-zero emitter by 2070, acknowledging the proactive steps already taken by the country. He highlighted the potential risks of climate change on the distribution and quality of India’s natural resources and the livelihoods of its people, particularly small and marginal farmers, who are most vulnerable to its impacts. He reaffirmed that agriculture is at the frontline of climate change impact.

Chaired by Mr. Ovais Sarmad, Former Deputy Executive Secretary, UN Climate Change, Germany, the panel also included Mr. Thierry Berthelot, Consul General of France and Mr. Achim Burkart, Consul General of Germany, who shared insights on preparations for COP28, ensuring ‘Net-Zero,’ and developing social and economic priorities alongside a combined strategy for Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) and a low-carbon future.

The Institute of Directors, India, organised the 24th International Conference on Environment Management and Climate Change at The Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru. The conference, spanning two days starting June 22nd, focused on the theme: “Board’s Strategy towards a Green Economy.”

Other business & industry leaders, who participated on day 1, included Mr. Arun Balakrishnan, Chairman, IOD- Bengaluru Chapter, Founder Chairman & Independent Director, HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited & former CMD, HPCL; Lt. Gen. Surinder Nath, PVSM, AVSM (Retd.) President, Institute of Directors, Ex-Chairman, UPSC & Ex-Vice Chief of Army Staff Former Independent Director, L&T Board; Mr. Bhaskar Anand Rao, CFO, Bangalore International Airport Ltd. (BIAL); Mr. Chanchal Kumar IAS, Special Secretary & Managing Director, National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd.; Mr. Sailesh IAS, Member, Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) former Secretary, Dept. of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, India & Mr. Ashok Kapur, IAS (Retd.) Director General, Institute of Directors.

Hyderabad, 26th June 2023: Re-emphasizing the need to build a culture of safe riding habits in India, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) took forward its National Road Safety Awareness Campaign in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Road Safety is a global priority for Honda. Through this three-days camp at Geethanjali College of Engineering & Technology, HMSI spread awareness on safe riding practices to more than 2100 college students and staff members. HMSI’s road safety instructors utilized the age-appropriate road safety learning programs to enhance the retention of road safety awareness among all.

Speaking on HMSI’s commitment towards building a collision-free India, Mr. Vinay Dhingra – Senior Director, HR, Admin, IT & Corporate Affairs, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India said, “Road safety education is essential for developing a road safety mindset. HMSI has been conducting Road safety awareness campaign to develop more responsible road users across the country. With this campaign, we aim to cultivate the right road safety habits amongst the new and upcoming riders as well as help them in understanding the importance of using the roads safely.”

HMSI’s National Road Safety Awareness program made learning fun yet scientific through:

1. SCIENTIFICALLY DEVISED LEARNING MODULE: Honda’s skilled instructors set the foundation with theory sessions on road signs & markings, driver’s duties on the road, riding gear & posture explanation and safe riding etiquette.
2.  PRACTICAL LEARNING: A special training activity on Honda’s virtual riding simulator was executed for all to experience over 100 possible dangers on the road before actual riding.
3.  INTERACTIVE SESSION: Participants were given danger prediction training known as Kiken Yosoku Training (KYT) which helps in enhancing rider/driver’s sensitivity to danger and ensures safe driving behavior on roads.
4.  EXISTING DRIVERS HONING RIDING SKILLS: Students & school staff members who are already existing riders tested & honed their riding skills through slow riding activities and riding on narrow planks.
5.  LEARNING IN A FUN WAY: To ensure that young students could learn more about road safety, Honda also conducted fun educational activities like road safety games and quizzes on a daily basis.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s CSR Commitment towards Road Safety:

For Honda globally, road safety comes first. As announced in April 2021, “Honda will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050”. Fulfilling its corporate social responsibility (CSR), HMSI has been promoting road safety in India since its start in 2001. Working towards the realization of Honda’s global safety vision, today HMSI’s road safety awareness initiative has already spread to more than 55 lac Indians. Its team of skilled safety instructors conducts daily programs at its 10 adopted traffic parks across India and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC).

Not only this, all HMSI’s 1000+ dealerships across India spread road safety awareness. HMSI’s proprietary virtual riding simulator increases the risk-prediction ability of riders; while new customers too are given predelivery safety advice (PDSA) before they start riding at every dealership across India.

Additionally, to ensure that learning does not stop in the new normal, HMSI started the digital road safety education initiative – Honda Road Safety E-Gurukul. Since its start in May’20, this initiative has sensitized more than 8 Lac Indians on the importance of being aware & responsible road users.

New Delhi,26th June 2023 Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Chairman APL Apollo, the owner of SG Alpine Warriors announced a cash incentive of $200000 if the team wins the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League (GCL) here in Dubai.

With World number one for 12 years and five times world Champion Magnus Carlsen as the icon player, a massive talent pool of three young Grand Masters, D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and R Praggnanandhaa the SG Alpine Warriors are one of the most formidable teams in the GCL. Grand Masters Irina Krush and Elisabeth Paehtz complete the six-member lineup of players led by FIDE Senior Trainer and International Master Vishal Sareen who doubles up as the Captain and Manager of the team.

The incentive announcement was made during a charity match wherein the team players played some games against Mr. Gupta, an avid Chess aficionado himself.

Playing as many as three games against Carlsen, Mr. Gupta said ‘it was an honour’ right at the start of the mini-series as well at the end when he was checkmated for the third time!

When asked about his personal expectations from the event Carlsen quickly replied, “It will be nice if we can do similar checkmates in every match we play here”.

“The GCL is definitely the dawn of a new era in Chess and we are really very excited to be a part of it. This has the power to change the horizon of Chess across the globe, make the youth take to the sport and I am sure that in the years to come it will grow bigger and better, this will propel the sport of chess in to the league of NBA, NFL and IPL”, said Mr. Gupta.

When asked about his personal interest in the game and why he decided to take the team, the team owner gave a rare insight. “We got the franchise barely 24 hours before the actual auction; it was a serious effort on part of our team that we were able to rope in the players that we desired. As it transpired we got a great mix and now we can’t wait for our matches to begin”, he said before quickly adding, “While we want to win it, I am really happy that the SG Sports family is growing and we are super proud of it”.

The Tech Mahindra Global Chess league was inaugurated on Wednesday evening in a glittering ceremony attended by all teams and Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra. Legendry Cricketer Steve Waugh and tennis icon Sania Mirza graced the occasion in a finely orchestrated Q&A session.

The format is unique and exciting at the same time and has captured the imagination of chess players and connoisseurs at the same time. There are six teams in the fray and they play a double round-robin over rapid games with a time control of 15 minutes with a ten second increment. All six players of a team play with the same colour, every win with white gives three points, black four and in case of a draw one point each is shared between both players. At the end of the match, the final score decides the winning team and three match points are given to the winners and in case of a 3-3 draw the teams share a point each.

Mumbai,26th June 2023: The newfound post-pandemic resilience and adaptability are facing their biggest test as the global business landscape navigates through myriad challenges. However, amidst these transformative times, the one reign that continues to prevail is that of the customer. Engagement, retention, and monetization of customers still are the utmost priorities.

Customer experience (CX) providers have become central to this unfettered focus as they strive to deliver exceptional customer experience while accommodating budget constraints and increased efficiency demands. In this context, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and ResultsCX have launched a report titled, ‘CXM’s Coming of Age: ‘Skin in the Game’ taking center stage’, that examines an array of commercial constructs available to service providers and breaks down some popular beliefs and myths about these models.

“Our white paper details how the business landscape is changing at a basic contractual level for the CXM service industry, ” offers Rajesh Subramaniam, CEO, ResultsCX. He adds, “Deep domain expertise and fundamental understanding of our customers’ business at ResultsCX enables us to apply an outcome-driven approach to every engagement. It also affirms how everyone benefits when a financial commitment dependent on performance and achieving success turns a mere provider into a long-term strategic partner.”

“As the CX industry goes through a transformational shift, CX providers need to take the onus on to themselves to be the drivers for expediting this change. Customers will no longer just want to simply “improve” the processes, but to transform them and drive better outcomes. The shift towards value-based models is not only inevitable but also essential for service providers who want to stay competitive in the ever-evolving business landscape,” says Vikash Jain, Managing Director and Senior Partner, BCG.

The report examines the transition from traditional models to value-based models, each offering unique pricing and engagement approaches. It also demystifies some popular myths around these models:

Margin accretive in nature: Value-based model have been found to drive uptick in margin realization when deployed effectively. Based on studies, up to 10-15% upside has been achieved over traditional models on like-to-like scope of services.

Key growth enabler, not just a margin play: Growth expectations for value-based models remain aggressive across verticals and services, with buyers expecting them to grow twice as fast as traditional models in the next five years.
Limited pureplay, mostly hybrids: Very few deals have been found to deploy pureplay value-based models. 9 out of 10 of value-based deals are hybrid in nature i.e., deploy multiple types of commercial including traditional and transaction based.

Higher win rates: A systematic approach to pitching value-based models during renewals results in higher win rates. Analysis of renewal deals revealed a win rate of 73% for incumbents, with a higher win rate (81%) when incumbents led with value-based models.

CXOs are bullish on adoption: Top leadership in buyer enterprises show optimism regarding growth and adoption of value-based models. COOs have been found to exhibit the highest level of confidence among CXOs.

Paves way for longstanding partnerships: Positive experiences with value-based models not only help maintain business in existing buying centers but also translate into expanding to new buying centers.

Lastly, the report discusses how service providers can navigate the complexities around these models and embrace the change. It elaborates upon some key factors that need thinking about, that will act as catalysts and enable both the buyers and service providers to widely adopt a “skin in the game” approach over the coming years. In conclusion, the transition to value-based models is a strategic move that benefits both providers and buyers, but it requires preparation, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt to new ways of doing business.

26th June 2023: Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society (TSCS – Hyderabad), the biggest society in the world – serving for Thalassemia Patients, submitted a compelling letter to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) & Ministry of Health – Govt.of India requesting to pass a Bill in Parliament or Government Order for the mandatory implementation of the HbA2 test in all hospitals nationwide for pregnant women. TSCS Hyderabad aims to collaborate with the government to eradicate Thalassemia and ensure a healthier future for the nation.

In their letter to the PMO, Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society stressed the importance of the HbA2 test, which is a reliable method for identifying carriers of thalassemia and distinguishing between different types of thalassemia. By making this test mandatory for pregnant women, the society believes that early detection of thalassemia carriers can lead to informed decisions and appropriate measures to prevent the birth of children with severe thalassemia.

Dr. Chandrakant Agarwal, President – Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society, expressed his optimism regarding the potential impact of the proposed initiative. He stated, “On behalf of TSCS Hyderabad, I would like to thank PMO Office, Ministry of Health-GOI for positively responding to our representation on Thalassemia. By implementing the HbA2 test as a mandatory screening tool for pregnant women, we can identify carriers early on and provide them with the necessary guidance and support. This step will not only prevent the suffering of individuals affected by thalassemia but also contribute significantly to our vision of making India a thalassemia-free nation. And we hope the government of India would also help us in making India, Thalassemia free”.

The society’s letter to the PMO emphasizes the urgent need for concerted efforts, and the allocation of resources to tackle thalassemia effectively. With the govt’s support & encouragement working towards achieving Thalassemia Free India seems a near possibility. The Public-Private (NGO) Partnership (PPP) will help the society to move ahead in creating awareness and reducing the births of Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Anemia Children.

The Thalassemia & Sickle Cell Society has been actively involved in raising awareness, providing support to patients and their families, and advocating for improved policies and healthcare infrastructure to combat thalassemia and sickle cell disease. In this context, TSCS Hyderabad has organized a National Conference on Prevention of Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Anemia last year with around 38 NGO’s from across India. Shri Venkaiah Naidu, Hon’ble Vice President of India also inaugurated a Blood Transfusion Unit and Advanced Diagnostic Lab at Thalassemia Sickle Cell Society (TSCS) a few months back. TSCS has also made the Mahaboobnagar of Telangana, completely Thalassemia free as a part of their pilot project. Also, TSCS has made a few PHC’s Thalassemia free. TSCS Hyderabad’s dedication and expertise make them a valuable partner in the government’s mission to create a healthier future for all citizens.

Mumbai,26th June 2023NTPC Ltd., the country’s largest power generator, has been honored with the prestigious title of “Most Preferred Workplace of 2023-24” organized by Team Marksmen.

The award recognizes NTPC’s exceptional performance in various key areas, including Organizational Purpose, Employee Centricity, Growth, Recognition & Rewards, Intrapreneurial Culture, Work-life Balance, Diversity, Equality & Inclusion, Safety, and Trust.

During the award ceremony, Shri Sital Kumar, CEO (UPL) & ED (HR) of NTPC, along with other officials from the organization, received this esteemed recognition.

This achievement reflects NTPC’s unwavering commitment to achieving excellence in the development and management of its human resources through continuous process improvement, engagement, and learning and development opportunities.

The company’s progressive and “People before PLF” (Plant Load Factor) approach has contributed to making NTPC a preferred workplace, as evidenced by the numerous awards and recognitions it has received over the years as one of India’s Best Employers.

The awards, conducted by Team Marksmen in association with India Today and Business Standard, are the result of a comprehensive consumer study conducted across the industry.

NTPC’s consistent success in these awards is a testament to its people practices, which are on par with the best companies in the world.

Gaurs Group, a renowned real estate developer based in Delhi NCR, announces the upcoming RRRx2 Property Carnival. The event will be held at Gaurs Sarovar Portico, Gaur City, Greater Noida West, on June 24th and 25th, 2023. It features 48 hours of family-friendly carnival fun and exceptional investment opportunities.

The RRRx2 Property Carnival is a one-of-a-kind event designed to offer attendees an unforgettable experience while providing them with a range of perks and benefits. During the carnival, attendees can take advantage of the following six exclusive perks:

1.  Registry Free
2.  Rental Assured @8% for Three Years
3.  Rewards – iPhone on Every Booking
4.  Relaxed Payment Plan (Three-Year Installment)
5.  Respite from Maintenance for Three Years
6.  Rebate on GST for Limited Units

Under the RRRx2 Property Carnival, the buyers can book properties in two of Gaurs’ commercial projects, Gaur World Smart Street and Gaur City Centre.

Gaur World Smart Street offers ready-to-fit-out retail shops in Sector 16B, Greater Noida West. The lower ground floor to the third floor has already received the completion certificate, ensuring a seamless transition for businesses.

Gaur City Centre presents ready-to-move-in offices and studio apartments at Gaur Chowk, Greater Noida West. Its prime location and outstanding amenities make it an ideal investment opportunity for those seeking commercial or residential spaces.

In addition to the attractive perks and projects, the RRRx2 Property Carnival also offers the best on-site deals, on-the-spot loan approvals, cars for immediate site visits, a kids play zone, live tattoo and sketch artists, F&B options, live music, and much more. Attendees will have an opportunity to explore the projects, experience the ambience, and avail themselves of exclusive offers.

Gaurs Group is a leading real estate developer based in Delhi NCR. With a reputation for excellence and an unwavering commitment to the environment, Gaurs Group has delivered over 65 projects spread over 60 million sq. ft. comprising around 65,000 dwelling units.

Jaipur,26th June 2023 The star players from each of the four semi-finalists for the ongoing Premier Handball League (PHL) attended a press conference before the start of the dramatic knock-out phase of the thrilling tournament. The four teams that will be playing the semi-finals of the PHL are Maharashtra Ironmen, Telugu Talons, Rajasthan Patriots and Golden Eagles Uttar Pradesh.

Maharashtra Ironmen were the first team to book their berth in the semi-finals as they finished top of the table at the end of the league phase. They were followed by Telugu Talons who ended the league phase in second spot. The home team Rajasthan Patriots finished third in the league phase as they booked their spot in the semi-finals by being one of the most consistent teams in the league. The Patriots are also the only team that defeated the Maharashtra Ironmen. The fourth and final team was the Golden Eagles Uttar Pradesh, who after faltering in the early stages of the league made a dramatic comeback in the final stages to book their berth in the semi-finals of the PHL.

The first semi-final will be played between Maharashtra Ironmen and the Rajasthan Patriots, the clash promises to be a highly entertaining affair. The game will be played on the 24th of June 2023 and will kick off at 7 pm.

Captain of the Rajasthan Patriots, Atul Kumar was present at the press conference, he spoke about his team’s approach going into the highly anticipated semi-finals. Atul said, “Our team’s main strength is the team unity we have, the bond all the players share. I think that will prove pivotal for us in the semi-final and help us reach the final. Luckily for us all the players have been playing their roles perfectly so far in the league and have consistently been contributing to the team’s success. We all try to stay calm in tough situations during the matches and stick to our coach’s instructions no matter the situation so we will have the same approach for the semi-finals.”

One of the star players of the Maharashtra Ironmen, Manjeet Kumar talked about what has worked for his team so far in the tournament while looking ahead at the semi-finals, he said, “I believe in the sport of handball the most important thing is to be aggressive in the way you approach it but you have to make sure at all costs that you keep your composure while being on the front foot. We also make sure we always stick to the strategy the coach has devised for us to secure the win. We have been able to do that thus far in the league and this mindset of our team will be vital to how we perform in the semi-finals.”

The second semi-final will see two of the strongest attacking teams in the league take on each other as the Telugu Talons will clash with Golden Eagles Uttar Pradesh. The game will be played on the 24th of June 2023 and will kick-off at 8.30pm.

Vikas Kumar, Captain of the Golden Eagles Uttar Pradesh has been a driving force behind his team’s resurgence in the league, talked about where he feels the game will be won or lost. Vikas said, “I think the first 10 minutes of the game and the final 15 minutes of the game are crucial. The match is won or lost in those phases. So, we have to make sure we do not give in to pressure at this point. Fortunately, our players are coming into form, including me, going into the semi-finals. We will try to be as calm as possible and try to stick to the tactics that the coach has come-up with for us to secure the win in the semi-finals. ”

Captain of the Telugu Talons, Shubham Sheoran talked about what he feels will give his team an edge against the Golden Eagles in the semi-finals. He said, “Our greatest strength as a team thus far has been our ability to comeback and rally despite being behind. That has allowed us to turn games around in a short span of time during the matches. We are also lucky to have Fernando as our coach as his innovative tactics have made us one of the most cohesive teams in the league. With Rahul in our goal, we also boast one of the most resolute defences in the league which will surely give us an edge over our opponents in the semi-finals.”

The two semi-finals will be filled with high-octane action and be played in front of a packed Sawai Mansingh Indoor Stadium in Jaipur. The winners from the two semi-finals will take on each other in the grand final which will be played on the 25th of June 2023 with the game kicking-off at 7pm. At the end of the finals the winner of the inaugural season of Premier Handball League will be crowned to cap-off a successful tournament.

The Premier Handball League (PHL), is sanctioned by the South Asian Handball Federation and affiliated with the Asian Handball Federation (AHF). The inaugural season of the Premier Handball League kicked off on June 8 and will run until June 25, 2023, which will be broadcast on the Viacom18 network on JioCinema, Sports 18-1 (HD & SD) and Sports 18 Khel.

PAN India, 26th June 2023Wedding season is almost upon us, and for those who are getting hitched, their families, and guests, it’s time to indulge in some shopping. Citykart, one of India’s largest value retailers focusing on family fashion in tier-II and tier-III cities, has launched a campaign focusing on family fashion for summer weddings. Focusing on the Shaadi Ki Tayari concept, Citykart’s latest campaign will ensure its customers across age groups have access to the best and latest wedding apparel trends with exciting offers.

Citykart’s 93 stores across India will feature an extensive collection of wedding wear, including Lehengas, sarees, gowns, salwar suits, blazers, waistcoats, and a wide array of kids’ wear in the Indian, Western, and Indo-Western categories. What’s more, is that Citykart will be offering guaranteed cashback to customers on every purchase, besides a whopping 40% discount on sarees, lehengas, gowns, and salwar suits when customers buy 2 of any of these pieces.

But the discounts and gifts are not just limited to apparel. The family fashion retailer’s latest campaign also offers portable Bluetooth speakers, duffle bags with wheels, dinner sets, and casserole sets at just INR 199 when customers make a purchase worth INR 1499. Additionally, customers can also find safari luggage at an incredible upto 65% discount and a range of offers on women’s Kurtas and men’s formal shirts.

Sudhanshu Agarwal, Founder & CEO of Citykart, said, “During the wedding season, it’s common, and even tradition, for families to purchase apparel and home items together. Citykart, with an unwavering commitment to offering the ‘value for money’ aspect, has built a strong presence across India, especially in the north. Our new campaign is specifically targeted at summer wedding shopping. As a retailer focused on the value of the products, we have announced exciting discounts and other such perks for customers. Wedding shopping in the summer can be stressful and tedious, so Citykart’s one-stop solution makes it convenient and cost-effective for our customers.”

Visakhapatnam:26th June 2023 Adani Gangavaram Port the deepest and the most modern port in the country conducted a voluntary Blood Donation Camp at the port premises. The camp was attended by more than 150 port employees who registered & donated blood during the event.

The objective of organizing the blood donation camp was to motivate people to donate blood and help the needy. The employees displayed kindness, love, compassion & goodness for the cause. Each Blood donation helps us save 3 lives and the initiative helped in creating the right awareness about the same.

Speaking on the occasion Adani Gangavaram Port Limited management said “This Blood Donation Camp is conducted as a part of our CSR programme. We are committed to the people of the community in developing infrastructure, Livelihood & health care facilities for the underprivileged people from the communities in our neighbourhood. Community development & engagement is a core focus & this is a step towards ensuring healthcare & commitment to the quality of life of the local community. Adani Gangavaram Port Limited is also planning to engage with the people on Skilling, Health Care & infrastructure in the future. I would like to thank all the employees and management who have joined us in this earnest need.”