New Delhi | 1st September 2023: News18 India’s Managing Editor Kishore Ajwani conducted an exclusive interview with Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing and Urban Affairs. The interview centered around the government’s decision to reduce the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders for domestic use by Rs 200 per cylinder, as announced by Union Minister Anurag Thakur. This reduction amounts to an 18 per cent decrease in the cost of a 14.2-kg cooking gas cylinder. The interview unveiled significant insights into the context, rationale, and implications of this decision.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri began by addressing questions about the timing of Prime Minister Modi’s decision to lower LPG prices. He asserted that the opposition’s concerns regarding the timing need not overshadow the significance of the decision itself. Stressing the democratic nature of the government, the minister underscored that the decision was taken in honour of the upcoming Rakshabandhan festival, symbolizing the government’s commitment to the welfare of India’s sisters.

Highlighting the transformative journey of access to LPG, Mr Puri illuminated the evolution from a time when 45% of India’s population lacked LPG access before 2014. This stark reality has evolved into a commendable achievement, with the total number of LPG connections growing from 14 crore to 32 crore in 2023, he added. The ‘Ujwala Yojana’ scheme stands out as a cornerstone of this achievement, benefiting 9 crore 60 lakh beneficiaries who receive a direct 200 rupee subsidy. Minister Puri further revealed that even those not covered by the scheme would now enjoy a reduced cylinder price of 900 rupees from the earlier 1100 rupees, while Ujwala Yojana beneficiaries would be entitled to LPG cylinders at an astonishingly affordable 700 rupees. Future plans to expand the Ujjwala Yojana by approximately 75 lakh connections underscore the government’s resolute mission to ensure universal LPG access.

When queried about the potential reduction of petrol and diesel prices, the Union Minister responded with an emphasis on fair comparisons. He raised questions concerning non-BJP states’ reluctance to reduce VAT in response to the central government’s reduction of central cess. The minister detailed a pattern of global petrol and diesel price increases, contrasting it with India’s remarkable feat of reducing petrol prices by 5% and diesel prices by 0.28% over the past two years.

He then engaged in a state-by-state analysis, drawing attention to the difference in petrol and diesel prices between BJP and non-BJP states. The significant variance in VAT rates painted a compelling picture, with petrol prices differing by up to 11.85 rupees and diesel prices by 10.67 rupees.

Expanding the horizon, he embarked on an international comparison spanning neighbouring countries. He referred to the data showcasing India’s praiseworthy position of reducing petrol prices by 5% while its neighbours experienced notable increases, ranging from 24.91% to 50.56%. Even on the global stage, the USA encountered a substantial 43.33% rise in petrol prices, in stark contrast to India’s reduction. Similarly, Germany and France, as major G20 countries, witnessed price increases of 18.56% and 22.56% respectively.

The discourse extended to diesel prices, revealing India’s 0.28% reduction against Sri Lanka’s 87.25% surge and the USA’s 36.70% increase. Mr. Puri also highlighted the government’s visionary steps in reducing LPG cylinder prices, benefitting each citizen by 200 rupees and Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries by 400 rupees, a testament to Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to the welfare of the people.

Addressing concerns about election-driven motives, he firmly articulated that elections are inherent to India’s democratic fabric and are independent of policy decisions. The LPG price reduction, a gesture of benevolence to women, aligned with the broader initiatives of women’s empowerment, extended maternity leave, and the abolition of triple talaq.

The Union Minister also delved into the challenges posed by “Oil bonds,” underscoring the consequences of past financial decisions and the government’s resolute approach under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.

The interview explored other dimensions of governance, including urban pollution and upcoming events. Mr. Puri’s insights provided a comprehensive understanding of the government’s vision, its accomplishments, and the commitment to India’s progress.

Bangalore, 1st September 2023: ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has launched an innovative income plan, ICICI Pru GIFT Pro, which provides customers the option to receive either a year-on-year increasing income or a constant regular income. In addition, the life cover component of this non-participating savings product ensures the family has financial security.

ICICI Pru GIFT Pro allows customers to customize the product to their unique needs by providing a choice of income benefits and premium payment terms, among other flexibilities.

Along with assured long-term income, ICICI Pru GIFT Pro offers customers the option to receive a lump sum benefit. Customers have the flexibility to choose any amount up to 100% of the premiums paid as a lump sum benefit and also select the timing of receiving the benefit. With this feature, customers can plan for life’s most cherished milestones, such as owning a house, leaving a lasting legacy for loved ones, or building a substantial retirement corpus.

This feature-rich product also ensures the nominee will continue to receive the income in case of the demise of the policyholder during the income period. ICICI Pru GIFT Pro effectively provides customers with the flexibility to meet both short and long-term income needs.

ICICI Pru GIFT Pro provides a range of premium payment terms from 5 to 12 years, letting customers save as per their convenience and goal timeline. Also from the 8th year onwards, they can start receiving income for as long as 30 years.

Mr. Amit Palta, Chief Distribution Officer, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance said, “We are excited to introduce ICICI Pru GIFT Pro, a long-term savings product with built-in flexibilities that will allow customers to adjust the product to suit their unique needs, thereby enabling them to better prepare for and achieve life goals. Besides the life cover component in the product provides financial security to the family.

ICICI Pru GIFT Pro has been designed to empower customers to receive income as per their financial needs. Significantly, the product will also enable customers to decide the time and quantum of lump sum funds they want, to ensure the fruition of their financial goals.

ICICI Prudential Life has institutionalized a 4D framework with customers at the core, offering ‘diversified product propositions’ as one of the pillars. Besides regularly engaging with our customers to understand their needs, one of the ongoing initiatives is to reimagine life insurance products well beyond the traditional constraints.

Today the customer is exposed to a wide array of products and services that offer the promise of hyper-customisation. Even in financial services, the customer is seeking the assurance that the financial product they are trusting will be tailor-made to their specific requirements and not just be a one-size-fits-all plan.

The other important point we picked up in our engagement with customers was the need to have benefits that could provide some cushion to inflation. This is why, in ICICI Pru Gift Pro, we are providing customers with a choice to either receive increasing income every year or constant income, both for a period of up to 30 years.

This feature-packed product provides customers with a comprehensive long-term financial savings solution. We believe it offers a perfect blend of financial protection and income with maximum flexibility to tailor the plan to suit one’s needs.”

1st September 2023 Albert Einstein once said, “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” When we are amidst nature, we grow. There is much to learn from local people and customs about the preservation of nature, our heritage and culture, and therefore, life. It reinstates that living good does not come at the cost of doing good – rather, these two tenets of life can co-exist beautifully together.

Signature Packaged Drinking Water believes in this philosophy wholeheartedly, and is therefore, proud to be the presenting sponsor of Ziro Festival, which in its 10th year, continues to manifest the spirit of living good and doing good. Set in the Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, the 4-day music festival is the nation’s most eco-friendly festival that offers enriching and engaging experiences for all nature lovers and music enthusiasts alike. Here the revelers will enjoy their days and nights with soulful music echoing the verdant green valleys, experience farm-to-table local cuisines, and partake in locally inspired beverage experiences. The festival will also give the attendees a chance to learn the sustainable way of living from the local Apatani tribe who master the art of recycling and repurposing.

The festival is scheduled to take place between 28th September and 1st October 2023 this year.

As partners, Signature Packaged Drinking Water & Ziro Festival share a mutual commitment in fostering a greener planet and enabling meaningful connections with nature. Hand in hand, both Ziro Festival of Music and Signature Packaged Drinking Water aim to promote conscious living through insightful masterclasses, raise awareness about environmental conservation with plogging through the four days, and encourage individuals to be One with Nature by living in the campsites setup in the valley exclusively by Signature Packaged Drinking Water. These campsites will endeavor to leave zero waste behind and give back the land as pristine as they were found.

The fest will feature an electrifying lineup of artists like Lee Ranaldo, Leon Somov, Farhan, Taba Chake, Mohit Chauhan, Kiss Nuka, Pt Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Guy Buttery, Komorebi, MC Altaf, among others. This year, the festival has also announced a third stage – Takvr, dedicated to electronic music. Apart from these, the Popi Sarmiñ Creative Space will also host a variety of community engagement initiatives and workshops.

Ruchira Jaitly, Executive Vice President and Portfolio Head, Marketing, Diageo India, said “Signature Packaged Drinking Water stands for doing things consciously that each of us can follow in our daily lives. The brand’s ‘Live good, Do good’ philosophy is a testament of the way today’s generation likes to live and as the title sponsors of Ziro Festival of Music, we are excited to showcase just that. The festival has one of the most picturesque venues in India with a terrific lineup of artists, experience centers, green acts of plogging, exciting masterclasses and more. Through this collaboration, we aim to bring together the tribe of Green Seekers who seek to be One with Nature in life, and at the festival, and together propagate the ethos of living consciously.”

Anup Kutty, Co-Founder and Creative Producer, Ziro Festival, said “It’s hugely encouraging to have an esteemed organization like Signature Packaged Drinking Water commit to supporting an independent project like Ziro Festival. Having worked with them in the previous year, it is apparent that our values regarding sustainability match”.

Bobby Hano, Co-Founder and Festival Director, Ziro Festival, said “This is a boost for responsible tourism in the northeast and will hopefully pave the way for a generation of eco-responsible artists and music lovers.”

Signature Packaged Drinking Water looks to invite Green Seekers to reconnect and exhilarate in nature’s authentic experiences whilst learning to make conscious decisions to live better in their life.

One97 Communications Limited which owns the brand Paytm, India’s leading payments and financial services company and the pioneer of QR and mobile payments, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Paytm Payment Services Limited has introduced EMV 3DS upgrades for Visa cards. EMV 3DS is the latest security protocol to seamlessly authenticate consumers and safeguard against card-not-present (CNP) fraud. With this, the company has become one of the first to implement EMV 3DS for Visa cards across its existing merchant partners.

A new global protocol for authentication of card transactions, EMV 3DS is a mandatory requirement for card payments to make them more secure and effective.

Paytm Payment Gateway’s EMV 3DS upgrade has been developed in-house for the company’s existing online merchants to seamlessly migrate to the new protocol without any additional efforts from their end. It provides better authentication rate, and greater security, reduces false declines and offers 10X data exchanged with the issuer which reduces fraud as well.

Paytm Payments Services Spokesperson said, “We continue to bring industry-first innovative payment solutions for our merchant partners and users. With EMV 3DS compliance in record time for Visa, we have ensured that our existing merchants are ready for the upcoming festive season without worrying about upgrading integration or spending extra for tech bandwidth. With this, we continue to drive a global standard for seamless and safe card transactions.”

Rishi Chhabra, Head – Merchant Sales & Acquiring, Visa India and South Asia said “We congratulate Paytm Payment Gateway on its successful transition to the new EMV 3DS standards. We believe this enhanced EMVCo® protocol will augment the security of the online commerce ecosystem, ensuring safer and more efficient transactions for Visa cardholders and merchants. We are happy to have partnered with Paytm on this journey to provide superior transaction experiences to their customers.”

Bengaluru, 1st September 2023: Varthana, the largest affordable school loan company headquartered in Bengaluru, India has raised INR 207,000,000 (USD 2.5 million) for an education-focused social bond from Symbiotics Investments. Varthana finances affordable private schools and students with affordable school and student loans, customized to enable schools and students to unlock their full potential.

Following the issuance of this education-focused social bond, Varthana will be able to support more affordable private schools in rural and semi-urban regions of India. It will do this by providing these schools financing for equipment purchases and construction and refurbishment of the facilities. This also showcases Varthana’s ability to align with the internationally accepted International Capital Market Association Social Bond Principles, “ICMA SBP”, increasing the attraction of international financiers.

The social projects that will be financed are represented by loans for primary and secondary schools as well as student loans for vocational training.

“The low-budget schools in which we invest are counting on inclusive financial services to get back on the growth path following the unprecedented challenges faced during the pandemic. We are thankful to Symbiotics for their support, which enhances Varthana’s ability to play a constructive role in helping with the post-COVID-19 recovery and ongoing improvement of schools throughout the country,” said Steve Hardgrave, Co-founder & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Varthana Finance.

“With this education-focused bond, Symbiotics Investments opens the door for international investors to contribute to the expansion of the education sector in India and directly invest in the future generation of this vibrant country,” said Prashant Bhardwaj, Symbiotics Investments Regional Manager South Asia.

This education-focused bond was issued via Symbiotics’ sponsored bond issuance platform (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises Bonds S.A.) under its Sustainable Bond Framework, which was certified in December 2019 and November 2021 by DNV GL. The bond is listed on the Securities Official List of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and displayed on the Luxembourg Green Exchange.

Bangalore,1st September 2023: Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (“TPREL”),a leading player in the renewable energy sector through its subsidiary TP Alpha Limited (Special Purpose Vehicle –“SPV”) signed a Power Delivery Agreement (“PDA”) with Sanyo Special Steel Manufacturing India Pvt. Ltd. for a Captive Solar Plant having capacity of 28.125 MW ( AC) (i.e. 39.375 MWp DC ) which is located in Aachegaon, Dist- Solapur, Maharashtra, the solar plant is projected to produce annual electricity of 61.875 Million Units (“MUs”) which would meet the energy requirement of steel manufacturing unit of “SSMI”.

The overall capacity of the Aachegaon facility is 120 MWp AC. The project will be commissioned by March 2024 as per the arrangement. This Solar Power will meet “SSMI” green power requirements and contribute towards United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The use of solar energy from this installation will help to reduce SSMI’s carbon footprint by ~42,534 tonnes annually (reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by ~42,534 tonnes annually). This project aligns with “SSMI” long-term strategy towards climate change by reducing dependency on fossil fuel-based energy, lowering the carbon footprint, and manufacturing Green Steel.

The project is in line with the objectives of the National Green Energy policy, emphasizing India’s commitment to fostering a clean energy ecosystem.

Speaking on the partnership, Mr. Ashish Khanna, CEO of Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited, stated, “Our partnership with Sanyo Special Steel Manufacturing India Pvt. Ltd. reflects our joint dedication to drive sustainable practices in the steel industry. These initiatives yield advantages like cost reduction, lower emissions, enhanced energy security, and alignment with sustainability targets. The government’s prioritization of captive power projects, driven by their economic and environmental merits, highlights their significance for various industries.”

Mr. Dilipkumar Pachpande, Managing Director of Sanyo Special Steel Manufacturing India Pvt. Ltd., added. “We are pleased to join hands with TP Alpha Limited (“SPV”) a subsidiary of Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited to secure a significant portion of our power requirement through renewable sources which is aligned with our sustainability vision. This collaboration perfectly describes our commitment towards clean and green energy solutions, which not only aligns with our goals towards climate change and sustainable development but also significantly benefits the steel manufacturing unit by reducing CO2 emissions and costs, enhancing sustainability, and contributing to carbon neutral goals by producing “Green Steel”. We are proud that together we are making a positive impact towards sustainable development. This is a significant step towards our long-term strategy towards sustainable development. We look forward to making the most of this association and fetching maximum benefit for the environment as well as for all our stakeholders.

Earlier, TPREL secured a Letter of Award (LoA) for a 966-MWRTC hybrid project, which marked one of the largest industrial Round-The-Clock (RTC) power purchase agreements within the group captive segment in the country.

With this project’s capacity addition, the total renewables capacity of TPREL reaches 7,815 MW including 3,683 MW projects under various stages of implementation and its operational capacity is 4,132 MW, which includes 3,139 MW solar and 993 MW wind.

Mumbai, September 1st, 2023: The Public Relations Consultants Association of India (PRCAI) hosted second edition of its flagship thought-leadership forum – Prologue 2.0. Igniting an engaging dialogue during Prologue 2.0: ‘Storytelling In The New World Order’, PRCAI revealed optimistic growth estimates for the industry to reach 3500 crores by 2027, at an annual growth rate of 11%.

PRologue 2.0 invited top corporate leaders including Shiv Shivakumar, Operating Partner at Advent International, and Partha Sinha, President, Bennett Coleman & Co. Ltd to deliver remarks to more than 250 communications and business professionals.

The most awaited industry event is a combination of trend discussions at PRologue 2.0, followed by Sabre South Asia 2023 Awards that celebrates the most creative and interesting work in the field of public relations. While more than 50 awards were given to compelling campaigns, Radhika Gupta, MD & CEO, Edelweiss MF was awarded the top honour of CEO of The Year at the SABRE South Asia 2023 Awards.

The conference covered new trends on changing consumer landscapes in the new digital age, and offered insights on how storytelling around authentic narratives, credible consumer experiences, and creativity in content leadership will be key to building strong business and corporate reputation.

Kunal Kishore, Vice President, PRCAI said, “In today’s dynamic and increasingly complex communication landscape, AI emerges as a crucial partner, helping us decipher the tangled web of voices and information from vast and varied sources. A harmonious synergy with AI will help us navigate data complexities, empowering communication professionals to concentrate on storytelling and building connections, while AI-driven data analytics gives us real-time insights into our efforts. Communication professionals and AI will work hand in hand to amplify brand presence across every platform, traditional or futuristic. Undoubtedly, it’s the perfect time for the communication space to embrace AI.”

At PRologue 2.0 stage, PRCAI demonstrated its commitment to raise the bar for industry talent by felicitating 50 young PR professionals from across the country, who won the prestigious Accreditation in Indian Public Relations (AIPR) certification, representing top achievers from Winter 2022 and Summer 2023 batches. AIPR acknowledges emerging practitioners who have showcased unparalleled proficiency and mastery in this domain.

Deeptie Sethi, CEO, PRCAI, said “The projected growth of the industry and increasing trust of C-Suite in our profession to positively impact businesses, needs world-class workforce for today and tomorrow. We are progressively building a strong talent base to serve future businesses and the prestigious certification is a step in the right direction. We are proud of these winners and will continue to grow this pool of professionals.”

With the growing relevance of reputation management, the need for skilled professionals is poised to surge in the future for the Public Relations industry. PRCAI industry study, SPRINT Report 2022-23, revealed in order to meet the growing demand, sector will be adding about 8000 professionals by 2027, growing at CAGR of 11 percent which employed 12000 professionals in FY 2022 in the organized sector.

With higher levels of digital integration, PR firms will seek to hire candidates with expertise in social media, content creation, and digital marketing in the near future. New specialized skills such as public policy, ESG crisis communications, and risk management will witness increased hiring of graduates and MBAs to bring new perspectives and areas of specialization.

1st September 2023: News18 Bangla remains committed to nurturing educational excellence and facilitating a platform for meaningful discourse that will pave the way for a better tomorrow. In a continued effort to uplift educational opportunities and celebrate academic excellence, News18 Bangla successfully organized the third session of its impactful program ‘Sikkhai Sampad – Let’s Study in Bengal’ on August 25, 2023, in Berhampore, Murshidabad District, West Bengal.

The pioneering initiative, ‘Sikkhai Sampad,’ aims to shed light on the diverse educational avenues available in Bengal and stimulate dialogue on vital enhancements needed in the educational landscape. Through the program, educators engage in enlightening talk shows as part of the programme, reviewing educational possibilities and recommending solutions for development.

During the event, a heartening awards ceremony took place, where the remarkable achievements of underprivileged students defying the odds were celebrated. Suman Dey and Sushmita Chakraborty, exemplifying determination and excellence, were honored for their outstanding performance in the Madhyamik and Higher Secondary examinations, respectively. These students have demonstrated that education can be a transformational force with tenacity and dedication. Adding to the accolades, Mr. Jitendranath Ghosh, a dedicated teacher from Murshidabad District, received well-deserved recognition for his exceptional contributions to education in the region. His dedication is an example to educators throughout the state.

The event witnessed an engaging series of panel discussions in which eminent educationalists deliberated on strategies to make Bengal’s rich educational heritage more accessible to future generations. These sessions yielded excellent insights and actionable recommendations for shaping the region’s educational trajectory.

The Honorable Minister of the Government of West Bengal, Shri Akhruzzaman graced the occasion as the chief guest, praising News18 Bangla for this initiative in Murshidabad District. He emphasized the importance of collaborative initiatives that foster educational growth and empowerment at the grassroots level.

The success of the event was supported by our presenting sponsor, Sister Nivedita University, and co-powered by Reliance Industries Ltd and JIS Group. Their drive to educational advancement resonates deeply with the program’s mission, reflecting their dedication to shaping a brighter future for Bengal’s students.

Tune in to News18 Bangla to catch the highlights of the event on 2nd and 3rd September at 3.30 PM & 9th and 10th September at 4.30 PM

New Delhi, 1st September 2023– Nema Eldercare, a distinguished name in the field of senior living, has achieved a remarkable distinction by being recognized as one of the best eldercare homes in India. With a relentless commitment to providing unparalleled care, fostering well-being, and promoting vibrant senior living, Nema Eldercare has earned its place as a leader in the industry.

Nema Eldercare’s distinction as one of the best eldercare homes in India is a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality and excellence. The organization has consistently prioritized the well-being, dignity, and happiness of its residents, creating an environment that reflects compassion, care, and a deep understanding of seniors’ unique needs.

What sets Nema Eldercare apart is its holistic approach to senior living. The organization’s comprehensive programs address physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being, ensuring that residents thrive in a home environment that nurtures every aspect of their lives. Nema Eldercare boasts state-of-the-art facilities and amenities designed to provide comfort, convenience, and a sense of belonging for its residents. From comfortable living spaces to engaging recreational areas, every detail is thoughtfully curated to enhance the quality of life.

Recognizing that every senior is unique, Nema Eldercare tailors care plans to individual needs, preferences, and goals. This personalized approach ensures that residents receive the support and attention they deserve in a manner that resonates with their lifestyles.

Nema Eldercare empowers residents to lead active, engaging lives through a range of activities, functions, and social interactions. The organization believes in cultivating a sense of purpose, belonging, and community involvement that enriches the lives of its residents.

With a specialized focus on dementia care, Nema Eldercare is at the forefront of providing support and assistance to seniors with cognitive challenges. Its trained staff, therapeutic activities, and safe environments ensure that residents with dementia are treated with the utmost respect and dignity.

Nema Eldercare’s recognition as one of the best eldercare homes in India is a reflection of the organization’s positive impact on the lives of its residents and the broader community. Its commitment to enhancing the senior living experience has garnered respect and acknowledgment from families, seniors, and industry experts.

“Nema Eldercare is honoured to be recognized as one of the best eldercare homes in India. This distinction is a testament to the dedication of our team and our shared commitment to providing seniors with a fulfilling, joyful, and dignified life,” Sanjeev Kumar Jain CEO and Founder of Nema Eldercare.

Nema Eldercare continues to redefine excellence in senior living, setting a standard that reflects compassion, innovation, and a deep understanding of seniors’ needs.

NOIDA, India,1st September 2023 HCLTech, a leading global technology company, has been named a Leader in the 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Public Cloud IT Transformation Services (PCITS) (August 2023) for the third consecutive year. The evaluation was based on specific criteria that analyzed the company’s overall completeness of vision and ability to execute.

“We take pride in our deep vertical expertise coupled with industry cloud solutions,” said Kalyan Kumar, Chief Technology Officer and Head of ecosystems, HCLTech. “We believe this recognition from Gartner for the third consecutive year is a testimony to how effectively and consistently our CloudSMART suite of offerings accelerates innovation and business transformation.”

HCLTech’s CloudSMART approach allows clients to adapt to an evolving technology landscape, helping them harness transformational technologies such as AI, machine learning, 5G, IoT and quantum computing.

Magic Quadrant reports are a culmination of rigorous, fact-based research in specific markets, providing a wide-angle view of the relative positions of the providers in markets where growth is high and provider differentiation is distinct. Providers are positioned into four quadrants: Leaders, Challengers, Visionaries and Niche Players.

Gartner Research Methodologies, “Magic Quadrant”, 23 August 2023. https://www.gartner.com/en/research/methodologies/magic-quadrants-research

Gartner disclaimer

Gartner and Magic Quadrant are a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in our research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.