Archives September 2023

Mumbai, India, 29th September 2023 Vegetable oils, the fastest-growing food commodity, continue facing an ongoing challenge of meeting the escalating high demand that increasingly outstrips supply. The climate change impacts and geopolitical development pose main challenges that require collaboration and partnership among the producers to mitigate potential supply constraints that potentially disrupt food and energy security.

The Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) and the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) co-organized the 2nd Sustainable Vegetable Oils Conference (2nd SVOC) to address immediate challenges and to deliberate measures to enhance future resilience in providing sustainable vegetable oils. Taking place in Mumbai, India, so we want to align with the G20 on highlighting India as a major consuming country to strengthen cooperation on sustainability, food and energy security, renewable energy, resilience and inclusive food value chains, and circular economy.

The leading vegetable oils stakeholders discussed the global challenges in the vegetable oils supply chain and highlighted the importance of strengthening the foundation for future communication and cooperation among global stakeholders, fostering an alliance for common interests in the vegetable oils sector.

The agricultural and commodity representatives of the main producing countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, India, China, and the EU), representatives of international organizations (i.e., Food and Agriculture Organization and Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) and major multinationals, as well as growers, discussed the pivotal role of vegetable oils which is to be emphasized as a fundamental tool to humanity, both for edible consumption and various applications, including in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Minister of Agriculture and Livestock of Honduras, Laura Suazo, expressed her concern about the challenges faced by Honduran small producers and extraction plants due to the recent changes of the EU’s import policy. She announced the government’s plan to launch the State Policy for the Agri-Food Sector of Honduras 2023-2043 which proposes several strategies including addressing the management of pests and diseases, land invasions, genetic improvement, and financing.

The Vice Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, Jerry Sambuaga, reiterated today’s conference notes, “Advancing Sustainability”, that has two important aspects concerning palm oil and its global contribution. First palm oil can fulfil the global demand of sustainable vegetable oil, but exploitation of palm oil negative image must stop. Second, palm oil and SDGs are inseparable, as the former underpins the attainment of the latter.

The Secretary General Ministry of Plantation & Commodities of Malaysia, Dato’ Hj. Mad Zaidi bin Mohd Karli, underscored the world population that is growing steadily, and the world is under pressure to meet global demands for food and fuel. So, the key question that is needed to confront is not about replacing palm oil, but rather acknowledging how sustainable palm oil can meet this demand efficiently, economically, and sustainably. Palm oil has proven to give positive impacts on global food security stems from its high productivity, wide range of applications, and ability to enhance food security.

Dr Shatadru Chattopadhayay Managing Director Solidaridad Asia said that “Solidaridad urges the EU that for inclusive implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation, it is necessary to create three things: First, implement an inclusivity quota, guaranteeing a specific percentage of palm oil imports from smallholders in Indonesia and Malaysia. Second, support oil palm smallholders by providing pre-financing, technical assistance, and a guaranteed market for carbon credits. Third, support aligning national mandatory sustainability standards like the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) and the Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) with the EUDR”.

The Secretary General of CPOPC, Dr. Rizal Affandi Lukman, recalled the role of palm oil to provide new and innovative approaches, ideas and measures to ensure the resilience and prosperity of the global vegetable oil sector in the longer term. he emphasized that for major consumer like India, palm oil is to complement the domestically produced vegetable oils, not as a competitor, to ensure food security and energy security. Without a doubt, palm oil is a crucial feedstock in the renewable energy mix, with the potential to play a pivotal role in supporting the implementation of the Global Biofuel Alliance, established during the 2023 G20 summit.

Mumbai, September 28, 2023: The Retailers Association of India (RAI) hosted the 17th edition of the Retail Technology Conclave, ReTechCon 2023, a premier assembly of retail CEOs, CIOs, technology service providers, and experts, on the 26th & 27th of September 2023 in Mumbai.

ReTechCon 2023 aims to assist retailers in comprehending multifaceted technology trends. It sheds light on areas such as sustainable solutions, global tech patterns, and innovative disruptions to tackle operational challenges promptly. The conclave’s discourse covered the advanced stages of Digital Transformation, D2C brand strategies, the Omnichannel Experience, and the burgeoning influence of AI in Retail.

RAI CEO Kumar Rajagopalan said “In the vast and dynamic landscape of retail, every stakeholder plays a crucial role. The technology committee of RAI has meticulously curated ReTechCon 2023 to be the compass for this collective journey. From insights into Digital Transformation and D2C strategies to the nuances of Quick Commerce and the transformative power of AI and ML, this conclave serves as a testament to the potential that awaits every retailer. As we embrace an all-digital format, the essence of ReTechCon remains: it’s about empowering each one of you with the knowledge and tools to flourish in a digitally-augmented world.”

Discussing the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), Thampy Koshi, MD & CEO of ONDC, remarked, “India boasts a vast multitude of sellers but many remain untouched by the digital wave. Drawing inspiration from our nation’s achievements like UPI and AADHAAR, ONDC’s commitment is to catalyse an inclusive e-commerce transformation, bringing millions more into the digital fold. At this year’s ReTechCon, we want to emphasize that our initiative is not just about expanding the e-retail landscape, but also about fostering an environment where startups thrive and collaborative growth is the norm. With open protocols and the combined energy of all stakeholders in the retail technology ecosystem, we’re poised to redefine India’s e-commerce trajectory.”

Delivering an insightful Special Address at the ReTechCon 2023, Dilip Abse, MD & CEO, NPCI, said, “Real consumption today is largely credit-driven rather than reliant on one’s own money, which has contributed to economic growth in developed economies like the US and Europe. Despite the progress in digital payments like QR codes and FinTech initiatives, traditional credit availability was limited until recent developments like the Rupee Credit Card on UPI and RBI-approved credit lines on UPI. These developments now allow a broader segment of the population, including small merchants, to participate in the credit ecosystem, moving beyond cash transactions, which means more sales than the yield payments.”

Speaking about Customer Experience, Rajiv Nair, CEO, Kaya Limited, said, “We have been harnessing technology to anticipate customer needs and satisfaction, using metrics such as NPS over time. We understand that true success extends beyond a single transaction; it’s about nurturing lasting customer relationships. Our commitment to post-service human interaction and continuous feedback collection ensures we’re not just a service provider but a trusted partner. The ultimate measure of our triumph lies in the long-term value our loyal customers bring, staying with us for years as a testament to our dedication to excellence.”

Speaking about customised approach Manish Kapoor, MD & CEO, Pepe Jeans London, said, “While self-checkout thrives globally, we acknowledge that in India, our customers prefer the warmth of personal assistance for an enhanced shopping experience. We advocate for wise and selective tech utilization, emphasizing automation and simplification where applicable, all while ensuring that technology enhances, not hinders, the customer journey.”

Over 100 speakers offered their invaluable perspectives at ReTechCon 2023. A major attraction of the conclave was the Day 2 sessions, which delved into the universe of digital-first brands. It showcased prominent D2C brands such as CaratLane, Bombay Shirt Company, Campus Sutra, Naagin, The Moms Co., and Urban Platter, among others.

In an engaging dialogue, Naiyya Saggi from The Good Glamm Group, which leads as India’s pioneer unicorn in DTC beauty and personal care, shared, “We witnessed the seamless interplay of content, community, and commerce unfold remarkably. Consequently, we embarked on an acquisition journey, securing remarkable content and community assets—a formidable feat in today’s landscape. This has enabled us to engage with a vast audience, conveying information to cultivate trust and garner consideration. Through the ensuing process, guided by our optimized E2C stack, individuals embark on a journey encompassing retention, engagement, and consideration, enriched by peer communities, ultimately propelling them through the conversion funnel. This strategic approach has not only positioned us effectively on smartphones, where our audience resides but has also enabled us to smartly establish a digital native presence in the retail outlets where we operate.”

Noteworthy discussions emphasized various pivotal facets of retail technology, including:

§ Customer Experience – The Core of Retail Evolution

§ Personalization in Retail – Responding to Customer Demand for Customized Products

§ The Retail Renaissance: How Generative AI is Redefining

§ Digital Transformation – Enabling Business Success Through Innovations

§ The E-commerce Equation: Balancing Tech and Tradition

§ Logistics Revamped: Reinventing Supply Chains for Unparalleled Efficiency

§ Data-driven Retail: Leveraging Advanced Analytics and BI

§ Creating Value vs. Valuations in a Tech-Enabled World

Additionally, the conclave presented the ReTech Startups Awards 2023, honouring top retail technology startups with the potential to revolutionize retailers’ ventures.

Bengaluru, September 28, 2023: KITES Senior Care, a Geriatric care services provider founded by Rajagopal G, Dr A S Arvind, and Dr Reema Nadig, announced the launch of India’s largest comprehensive Dementia Care Centre in North Bengaluru, designed to provide superior residential care for persons with Dementia and focus on the early diagnosis and staging of Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as well. The facility is located at Trinity Layout, Ashwath Nagar, Hennur Gardens, Geddalahalli, Bengaluru and is spread over 21,000Sq ft of built-up area. With a capacious 110-bed capacity, the new centre is poised to set the benchmark in senior care.

The inauguration of this Dementia Care Facility in Bangalore on coincides with World Alzheimer’s Day, underlining the commitment from KITES Senior Care to raise awareness. This state-of-the-art facility will provide holistic support to seniors, encompassing their day-to-day activities and addressing their psychosocial needs. Along with this the Dementia Care Centre will provide a dedicated day-care area specifically tailored to cater to elderly diagnosed with early stage Dementia.

As per Dementia India, presently 8.8 million Indians older than 60 years are grappling with Dementia, a number that is forecasted to cross the 1.7 crore mark by 2036. Dementia, a group of conditions characterised by cognitive impairments, such as memory loss and judgement issues, affects a substantial number of individuals, particularly those aged 65 or older. The estimated Dementia prevalence for adults aged 60+ in India is 7.4%. A report by NCBI states that Dementia is a global issue of concern, with the number of people living with it expected to double every two decades.

KITES Senior Care is committed to addressing the significant need of persons with Dementia, ensuring that individuals and their families receive the care and support required to navigate the challenges of Dementia. The brand recently closed a Pre Series A funding of USD 2 Million from Dr Ranjan Pai’s MEMG family office. The funds are being used to expand their presence in South India, latest being in Chennai, and provide quality geriatric care for the elders.

Rajagopal G, Founder and CEO of KITES Senior Care, said, “Forecast of 2036 reveals a staggering estimate of 1.7 Crore Indians grappling with Dementia. The repercussions are far-reaching with memory losses, disorientation, struggling with everyday tasks and reduced social behaviours. For the immediate family members this becomes challenging especially as the disorder progresses. With the initial success, we are now embarking to establish this large & a comprehensive facility in addressing this pressing need. India’s largest and most comprehensive Dementia Care facility is dedicated to providing world-class treatment tailored to the needs of our elderly population at optimal costs.”

Dr Reema Nadig, Co-Founder and Group Medical Director of KITES Senior Care, said, “As a healthcare professional, I’ve witnessed the growing impact of Dementia on elderly individuals in India. With an ageing population and changing demographics, Dementia has become a pressing public health concern. Early diagnosis, timely interventions, and comprehensive care are pivotal in addressing Dementia’s challenges. By fostering a more Dementia-friendly society and investing in research and healthcare infrastructure, we can make significant strides in improving the lives of our elderly population affected by this condition. To raise much-needed awareness around World Alzheimer’s Day, KITES Senior Care is excited to introduce its one-of-its-kind Dementia Care unit for those with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. KITES Senior Care is dedicated to enhancing our senior population’s wellbeing and addressing the problems associated with Dementia with the launch of this facility in Bangalore.”

New Delhi,28th September 2023– S&P Global India has been ranked as one of India’s top 10 Best Workplaces™ for Women by Great Place To Work® in 2023. It also got recognized among India’s Best Workplaces™ in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging. These recognitions are a result of S&P Global’s mission to accelerate progress and part of its strategic initiatives and People-First policies in India to create a more inclusive work environment.

S&P Global’s People First philosophy invests in creating an inclusive culture with its forward-looking policies and benefits to accelerate progress across its people, customers, and communities. The concentrated efforts on people and DEI strengthen its ability to advance inclusiveness and resilience internally and externally throughout its India operations.

Some of the policies, benefits and work in this area include:

• Gender pay gap reporting to enhance transparency and reduce any gaps
• Investing in career development programs for women leaders
• Paid parental leave for all parents, regardless of gender, welcoming a child through birth, adoption, foster or surrogacy for 26 weeks
• Interactive DEI learning & development platform
• Menopause support

A parental support program to connect with experts specialising in pregnancy, postpartum care, lactation support, infant sleep coaching 24/7

Gender-affirmation surgery

Commenting on this, Nilam Patel, Managing Director, India Operations, S&P Global said, “At S&P Global India, we believe that diversity and inclusion are the cornerstones of innovation and growth. We invest in our people, provide essential sustainability intelligence to our customers and accelerate equity in our communities with the support of our External partners/NGOs. These recognitions reaffirm our commitment to providing an inclusive and equitable work environment for all and inspire us to strive harder to create a culture that everyone at S&P Global can be proud of.”

S&P Global released its inaugural Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion report earlier this year, committing to advancing DEI with enhanced disclosure and transparency to create a more intersectional and inclusive future.

Tanuj Gupta, Regional People Lead at S&P Global India said, “We are humbled and proud to be ranked as one of India’s Best Workplaces™ for Women and to be recognised among India’s Best Workplaces™ in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging. Our People First culture, our ambitions to continually measure progress and our determination to accelerate progress through our values, policies and practices are what set us apart.”

S&P Global’s People First policy benefits also include: securing the salary of any S&P Global employee unable to work due to a diagnosis of cancer or other chronic disease or serious illness for up to one year; pregnancy loss and reproductive wellness support; menstruation and select personal hygiene products provided free of charge at all office locations; five enterprise wellness days to collectively unplug; nursing parent support among others.

Bangalore, 28 September 2023 – Spoclearn, a leading online education platform, is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr. D Y Patil Pratishthan’s College of Engineering, located in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. This strategic partnership aims to foster collaboration in the field of education and provide enhanced opportunities for students, faculty, and the wider community.

The Partnership with Dr. D Y Patil Pratishthan’s College of Engineering includes Free Webinar and Demo Conducting Job-Oriented Training Webinar Session: Under this collaboration, Spoclearn will host a series of free webinars and demo sessions designed to provide students with valuable insights into job-oriented training. These sessions will cover a wide range of topics and industry-specific skills, helping students gain a competitive edge in the job market.

FRC Program Conduction: The MoU also includes implementing the Future Ready Champions (FRC) program, aimed at students across D Y Patil Pratishthan’s Group of Colleges to make them industry-ready across Data Science, Data Analytics, Business Analytics, Full Stack Development domains. These technical training programs aim to provide industry-ready talent for Global MNCs, SMBs, and Government Institutions across India.

Dr. Kshitij Upadhyay, Training and Placement officer of Dr. D Y Patil Pratishthan’s College of Engineering, expressed enthusiasm about this partnership, stating, “This collaboration with Spoclearn aligns with our commitment to providing our students with the best educational opportunities and placements. The free webinars and the FRC program will undoubtedly add value to our curriculum and help our students develop skills in high demand in today’s job market.”

Mr. Moghul Musharaff, Head – Global Training Solutions of Spoclearn, shared similar sentiments and said, “We are excited to partner with Dr. D Y Patil Pratishthan’s College of Engineering and contribute to their mission of providing quality education. Through this MoU, we aim to empower students with practical skills and knowledge that will enable them to excel in their careers.”

The MoU between Spoclearn and Dr. D Y Patil Pratishthan’s College of Engineering represents a significant step toward advancing education in the region and fostering innovation in the field of technology and engineering. Both institutions are committed to working closely to achieve their shared goals and create a brighter future for students and the community.

Bangalore, 28th September 2023: Experience a new level of excellence with the unveiling of Sony’s WF-1000XM5 truly wireless earbuds, announced today. Representing the pinnacle of the acclaimed 1000X series, this cutting-edge model redefines perfection, delivering unparalleled noise cancellation, an elevated immersive sound experience, and Sony’s most exceptional call quality to date. Immerse yourself in your music, as the WF-1000XM5 creates a seamless connection between you and your tunes.

Speaking on the launch Sunil Nayyar, Managing Director, Sony India said “WF-1000XM5 has redefined the concept of earbuds. We are proud to announce that our earbuds have incorporated the features which provide an elevated immersive sound experience to the listeners. It’s active noise cancelling features, high resolution audio and amazing sound quality, all at a relatively competent price makes it a perfect choice, setting a new standard in the world of audio. With these earbuds, we aim to stand on our position as one of the best earbuds manufacturers in truly wireless earbuds segment globally as well as in India.”

The WF-1000XM5 earbuds raise the bar for distraction-free listening and clarity. With Sony’s expertise in music, you can trust that you’re getting the ultimate music experience. The WF-1000XM5 feature cutting-edge technology to deliver premium sound quality and the best noise-cancelling performance1 on the market. Real-time audio processors and high-performance mics power the specially designed driver unit Dynamic Driver X, for wide frequency reproduction, deep bass, and clear vocals. They are designed to immerse you in a sound so good, it feels like you’re in the studio with your favourite artists.

The WF-1000XM5 now feature three microphones on each earbud, including dual feedback mics, which improve low-frequency cancellation performance. This is Sony’s biggest ever step forward in noise cancelling, resulting in ambient sound captured even more accurately. Newly developed by Sony, the Integrated Processor V2 unlocks the potential of the HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e. The unique combination of technology controls the six microphones, across both ears, to deliver unprecedented noise cancelling quality that can be adapted to provide the best performance for your environment. The ability to reproduce lower frequencies has also been improved on the WF-1000XM5 thanks to the new Dynamic Driver X. Plus, the Noise Isolation Earbud Tips feature a unique polyurethane foam material that reduces noise in the high frequency range.

By combining Sony’s newly developed HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN2e and Integrated Processor V2, the WF-1000XM5 incorporates precision 24-bit audio processing and high-performance analogue amplification. The result is low distortion and crystal-clear audio reproduction. Premium sound quality continues to be at the heart of the WF-1000XM5’s design with support for High-Resolution Audio Wireless thanks to LDAC, as well as DSEE Extreme™ to upscale compared digital music in real time. Additionally, the earbuds feature 360 Reality Audio, which creates an immersive audio experience that transports you into the centre of the music[ii]. From finer vocals to deeper bass, everything is tuned for the music on the WF-1000XM5. Thanks to a specially designed Dynamic Driver X for wide frequency reproduction, the WF-1000XM5 let you experience richer vocals and more detailed vocals. The diaphragm structure combines several different materials for the dome and the edge, achieving clear highs and deep, rich bass sound with low distortion.

The WF-1000XM5 earbuds come equipped with head tracking technology which ensures a realistic and compelling listening experience by automatically adjusting sound fields to compensate for your head movement. Sounds are precisely aligned with your smartphone screen, even as you move, to completely involve you in your viewing by connecting to compatible smartphones/service[iii].

Description automatically generatedThe WF-1000XM5 now feature Sony’s best ever call quality3, delivering your voice clearly in every situation whether you’re in the office, working from home, in a public space or a noise place. Thanks to an AI-based noise reduction algorithm based on Deep Neutral Network (DNN) processing and bone conduction sensors, your voice will come through crystal clear and natural even in a noisy environment. Plus, if you’re outdoors, the wind noise reduction structure will minimise any wind noise, so you always know you will be heard.

WF-1000XM5 also feature Sony’s popular features like Adaptive Sound Control and Speak-to-Chat as well as Multipoint Connect that lets you pair two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, so when a call comes in, your earbuds automatically know which device is ringing and connect to the right one. Staying connected has never been easier thanks to Fast Pair and Swift Pair. Plus, you can control the WF-1000XM5 with your voice with your favourite voice assistant.

The WF-1000XM5 also features Auto Play for an operation-free listening experience. You can customise the timing of the music to suit your preferences, such as when you’re putting your earbuds on or starting to walk for a break, uplifting your mood effortlessly. Additionally, audio notifications keep you on track with your important events, allowing your phone to stay safely in your pocket. By linking your device with Spotify, Endel and Apple Music[iv], you can access your favourite music and relaxing soundscapes to make your listening experience truly unique[v],[vi]. In line with the WF-1000XM5, the WH-1000XM5 now also supports Auto Play. If you are looking for new entertainment options beyond music and movies, the WF-1000XM5 uses new sensors and spatial sound technology to deliver immersive sound for Augmented Reality games like “Ingress” from Niantic[vii]. Using head tracking, the sound is conveyed from different directions to line up perfectly with the action on the screen[viii].

With up to 8 hours of battery life[ix], you can enjoy hours of uninterrupted listening time, and a quick 3-minute charge provides up to 60 minutes of play time. Additionally, Qi technology offers easy wireless charging[x].

Price and Availability

Sony India has announced a special pre-booking offer for WF-1000XM5. Customers can now pre-book it at a special price of Rs. 21,990/- (including Rs. 3,000/- cashback). They will also get SRS-XB100 portable speaker worth Rs. 4,990/- free under the pre-book offer. This pre-booking offer starts from 27th September 2023 and is valid till 15th October 2023 on all online and offline channels such as Sony Center, major electronic stores and e-commerce portals in India.

India, 28th September 2023 Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), the dedicated global business agency of Queensland Government has recently announced a report titled Queensland–India Trade and Investment Strategy 2023–2027. The report highlights the immense importance of India to the state of Queensland, Australia and outlook for the Indian market for the next 5 years.

With India becoming Queensland’s fourth-largest trading partner and second-largest export market, it is the best time for both regions to deepen their socio-economic relations even further. Queensland’s Indian diaspora has also grown to over 90,000, making it the third largest Indian diaspora in the country and the second-largest non-European diaspora in the State.

Speaking about the blossoming strategic partnership, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Queensland, Mr Cameron Dick said, “Building on the Queensland Trade and Investment Strategy 2022-2032, the India Trade and Investment Strategy 2023-2027 provides a foundation for that partnership to blossom. It profiles key sectors, states, and opportunities. And it identifies practical initiatives to deepen Queensland’s engagement with India, building on economic and institutional links and people-to-people ties.”

Minister Dick also emphasized, “In partnering with India, we will continue to build a platform for state-wide economic growth and development. This strategy elevates our world class sectors, allowing us to partner with India in shared prosperity and security.”

Queensland’s business landscape is flourishing across various industries drawing parallels to the diverse spirit of India. Within the aviation sector, Queensland and Boeing’s collaboration stands tall. This strategic alliance not only ignites job creation within Queensland but also weaves a robust supply chain web, resonating with India’s burgeoning aerospace ambitions and job opportunities.

Similarly, Queensland’s rising expertise in biomedicine perfectly aligns with India’s burgeoning medical technology aspirations. Further turning the attention to financial services, Queensland’s allure captures the interest of major players with major financial institutions having set up tech hubs within the city’s embrace. This strategic move augments the potential for burgeoning careers for software engineers and data specialists, aligning with India’s prowess in the tech sphere.

Queensland’s mining prowess is universally acknowledged. Queensland state’s resource entities, combined with state-of-the-art mining technology providers, form strategic partnerships with key Indian enterprises. Together, they elevate productivity and institute a resilient ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework, underscoring our devotion to sustainable and innovative mining solutions.

The growing cooperation and partnership between both countries is even more evident with the fact that a growing number of Indian students are choosing Queensland as their preferred study destination as the region offers a wealth of business opportunities and a vibrant multicultural environment. Last year alone, over 63,000 Indian students arrived in Australia with a student visa, contributing to the country’s reputation as a top-tier study destination.

Sharing his thoughts about India’s partnership with Queensland, Abhinav Bhatia, Senior Trade & Investment Commissioner – South Asia, Trade and Investment Queensland, said, “India’s partnership with Queensland is a testament to the growing synergy between our two regions. With Queensland emerging as a key trading partner and export market for India, the opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth are immense. The Queensland-India Trade and Investment Strategy 2023-2027 sets the stage for a deeper engagement, highlighting key sectors, states, and practical initiatives to strengthen economic ties. As we forge ahead, we aim to foster shared prosperity and security, leveraging Queensland’s expertise in various sectors which align perfectly with India’s aspirations. Moreover, Queensland’s appeal as a study destination for Indian students further solidifies the bond between our regions. Together, we are poised to create a vibrant and prosperous future.”

With its strong focus on innovation, technology, digital education, and the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics, Queensland offers a promising future for international students seeking business opportunities and a thriving career.

Mumbai, 28 Sept 2023: In a significant move, India’s higher educational institutes (HEIs) have agreed, in essence, to create a first-of-its-kind HEI-led ‘Agri-Consortium’ – a move initiated by IIM Kashipur. An in-principal framework in this regard was adopted by participating institutions (HEIs) during the ‘Agri-Entrepreneurship in South Asia’ Consortium-2023 organized by the Foundation for Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development (FIED), an incubation center of IIM Kashipur, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, concluding here today.

The two-day Agri Consortium 2023 aimed to provide a common platform for academicians, researchers, students, and industry professionals to interact and deliberate on the latest trends and advancements in technology, research, funding avenues, and industry requirements in the agriculture industry.

During the consortium, higher education institutions (HEIs) and universities agreed upon a principled agreement with three steps: first, sharing of startup databases among consortium members; second, dissemination of incubation or startup support programs; and finally, networking and sharing best practices on the platform.

Prof. KulbhushanBalooni, Director of IIM Kashipur, thanked everyone for the successful completion of the two-day ‘Agri-Entrepreneurship in South Asia’ Consortium 2023.

In another development, the RKVY RAFTAAR Scheme, supported by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India through FIED, IIM Kashipur, has provided funding of 1 crore 60 lakh rupees to 10 startup companies. These companies operate in the fields of Drone technology, Agri supply chain, Food processing, Hydroponics, Waste to wealth, and Agri biotechnology industries.

Prof. KulbhushanBalooni, Director of IIM Kashipur, said, “This Agri Consortium will serve as a platform for sharing information on agri-startups supported by member higher education institutions from different parts of the country. This opens the avenues of collaboration between startups from different geographies, helping each other take their innovative solutions to a large number of farmers.”

Prof. SafalBatra, Associate Professor, IIM Kashipur, and Director, FIED, said, “Through this consortium, we are building a knowledge pool for the startup ecosystem so that we can extend our support to various industries in developing significant startups within the agriculture sector. Additionally, we are going to establish a knowledge bank for failed startups in the agricultural industry to provide insights into their failures. These insights will be shared with policymakers and the government to assist in crafting policies for their benefit.

Approximately 10 HEIs, including IGKV-Raipur, CCS Haryana Agriculture University, Hisar, Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, IVRI Bareilly, PusaKrishi, New Delhi, GB Pant University, VCSJ Uttarakhand University of Forestry & Horticulture, Bharsar, Uttarakhand, and CCS NIAM Jaipur, and IImKashipur, have agreed to a principled agreement to collaborate in the Agri Consortium.

Bangalore, 28th September 2023: Broadrange.AI, a pioneer in the field of AI technologies, is excited to announce its latest Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with RV University, Bangalore, to jointly advance the realm of Generative AI. This strategic partnership aims to combine the strengths of both institutions, creating a nurturing foundation for India’s emerging tech enthusiasts to explore the vast opportunities within the US AI industry, particularly in the domain of Generative AI.

We are delighted to announce an inspiring collaboration between two visionary institutions—**Broadrange AI**, based in Northbrook, IL, and **RV University** in Bangalore, India. This partnership signifies a significant milestone and serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of both entities to fostering excellence and innovation.

Broadrange AI has joined hands with RV University to propel the frontiers of Generative AI forward. This strategic alliance brings together the best of both worlds, providing a nurturing platform for India’s emerging tech enthusiasts. These young technocrats will have the unique opportunity to explore the vast possibilities within the US AI industry, focusing on the dynamic domain of Generative AI.

In the spirit of this collaboration, RV University is proud to introduce its young technocrats—students deeply rooted in software development and fueled by a passionate interest in AI/ML technologies, particularly Generative AI. These aspiring talents will find themselves in a unique position to actively engage with and contribute to the pioneering initiatives of Broadrange AI in this transformative domain.

At the core of this partnership lies the mentorship provided by esteemed RVU faculty members, including Prof. CVSN Reddy and Mr. Ramarao Kadiyala of Broadrange AI. Their guidance and expertise will serve as a guiding light for our young technocrats, ensuring a seamless transition from academia to industry. Additionally, RVU’s contributions extend beyond mentorship, as the institution plays a pivotal role in shaping the foundation upon which this partnership thrives.

A pivotal aspect of this collaboration is Broadrange AI’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in Generative AI. The company has meticulously curated a series of “intern-driven projects” designed to provide students with hands-on experience in developing and working with advanced Generative AI models. Through projects that encompass eLLM (Enterprise Large Language Model), Geneadaptic (Generative AI Application), and deep learning methodologies, students will be well-versed in prominent AI/ML tools that are essential in shaping the future of generative models, including:

A. Deep Learning: Leveraging advanced neural network architectures for solving complex AI challenges.

B. LangChain: An open-source framework for building applications powered by large language models

C. Hugging Face: A leading AI company behind the popular Transformers library, revolutionizing natural language processing with pre-trained models.

D. Large Language Models: Advanced AI systems, like GPT-3 and GPT-4, capable of understanding and generating human-like text across diverse applications.

E. Toolkits: GPT & BARD. Developed by OpenAI, and Google, these toolkits empower developers to train powerful generative models.

F. BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers): A pre-training language representation technique utilized for various tasks.

These tools not only offer students a competitive edge but also empower them to lead advancements in the dynamic field of Generative AI, which holds vast creative and practical potential.

Krishna Guda, Co-Founder of Broadrange AI, conveyed his enthusiasm, stating, “Emerging tech enthusiasts are at the forefront of AI’s evolution. Our collaboration with RV University underscores our commitment to refining their untapped potential in the realm of Generative AI. Beyond foundational projects, we’re excited to introduce them to cutting-edge tools that are reshaping the AI landscape.”

Dr. Sanjay Chitnis, Dean of RV University, echoed this sentiment, affirming, “Our young technocrats are on the brink of global AI innovation, particularly in Generative AI. With Broadrange AI’s diverse array of intern-driven projects and cutting-edge tools, they are poised for success. This partnership embodies our shared vision for the AI era that lies ahead.”

Both Broadrange AI and RV University envision this collaboration as the inception of transformative AI innovation, laying the groundwork for tomorrow’s leaders in the dynamic realm of Generative AI.

Kolkata, 28th September 2023: The Indian Chamber of Commerce organized its 3rd EdTech Summit, with the theme “Future of Education: Role of EdTech,” on Tuesday, 26th September 2023 at The Park, Kolkata, bringing together prominent leaders, educators, and experts from the education and technology sectors. The event promises to be a platform for in-depth discussions on the transformation of education through technology. The summit centred on two key topics: Higher Education, focusing on the onus of developing tech-savvy, competent for flexible employment opportunities, and School Education, highlighting the role of EdTech in the transition from smart classroom technologies to real-world situations. Notable dignitaries who graced the occasion included Dr. Subhas Sarkar, Hon’ble Minister (MOS), Ministry of Education, Govt. of India; Prof. (Dr) Dhrubajyoti Chattopadhyay, Vice Chancellor, Sister Nivedita University; Mr. Pradip Agarwal, CEO, Heritage Institute of Technology; Mr. Jaydeep Saha, CEO Empwr.ed, Singapore; Shri Sanjay Kumar Das, Managing Director, WEBEL; Dr. Debanjan Chakrabarti, Director, British Council East and Northeast and Sardar Simarpreet Singh, Co-Chairman, ICC National Expert Committee on Higher Education & Training and Director, JIS Group.

Dr. Subhas Sarkar, Hon’ble Minister (MOS), Ministry of Education, Government of India during his speech said, “I have observed that the National Education Policy, along with its educational initiatives, is playing a pivotal role in transforming India. It is commendable to witness how these changes are not just a minor adjustment, but a profound shift that will have a lasting impact on our nation. Some may consider these efforts as a Herculean task, but I beg to differ. It is a matter of pride that we have taken significant steps in this direction. It is said that even small actions can make a big difference, and I believe this holds true for the changes we are implementing in our education system. In the grand tapestry of time, we find ourselves at a juncture where the past and the present converge. It is fascinating to reflect upon the historical roots of our education system, dating back thousands of years. It serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of our culture. The education we received from our ancestors, though valuable in many ways, was not without its flaws. The advent of modern education has opened new horizons, expanding our understanding and perspectives. It is heartening to see the integration of traditional wisdom with modern knowledge in the National Education Policy. It is worth noting that this policy emphasizes the importance of nurturing young minds from a very early age. The foundation of literacy and numeracy laid at an early age will undoubtedly shape the future of our youth. These early years are critical, as they contribute to the development of critical thinking, attitude and emotions. Education is not merely a means to secure employment but a path to personal and societal growth. It encompasses not just academics but also physical and social development, echoing the age-old wisdom that life is a holistic experience.”

While delivering the welcome address, Prof. (Dr.) Dhrubajyoti Chattopadhyay, Vice Chancellor, Sister Nivedita University, said, “Edtech has played a pivotal role in reshaping both higher and school education in India, especially accelerated by the pandemic. It’s revolutionised access, making learning more adaptable and engaging. This summit focuses on crucial dimensions, from upskilling faculty to AI-driven language learning, breaking geographical barriers and ushering in a future of personalised learning, aligning education with the dynamic workforce needs. Edtech is shaping the future of education in India.”

While delivering the keynote address, Mr. Pradip Agarwal, CEO of Heritage Institute of Technology and Summit Chair, expressed, “EdTech has the power to revolutionise education, making it more accessible and effective. Our discussions today delved into the myriad possibilities that technology presents in the field of education. The rapid transformation of education due to technology, accelerated by the pandemic, is a global concern. This shift impacts how we learn and teach, prompting a search for innovation and advancements in education. Technology’s influence on schools and instruction is profound, shaping the future of education. We anticipate continued technological advancements, particularly in assessment and inclusive learning. Data-driven edtech ecosystems are emerging, with a focus on redefining learning outcomes. The edtech industry is a rapidly growing global market, poised to fundamentally reshape education by offering personalised, inclusive, and data-enhanced learning experiences.”

Mr. Jaydeep Saha, CEO of Empwr.ed, Singapore, emphasized, “It is a great honour to be a part of this EdTech conference. EdTech is not just a trend; it’s a necessity. It’s inspiring to see India’s commitment to fostering educational innovation. And what I’ve seen is that education is the foundation. We need to build a foundation, which will require a lot of firepower, and that comes from education. In Singapore, I’ve observed a successful model of government collaboration with businesses, aligning policies with corporate needs. This synergy fosters talent development domestically. Unlike Singapore, where skills are nurtured, India lacks a similar approach. We need to bridge this gap and empower our nation, working together to create a brighter future.”

Shri. Sanjay Kumar Das, Managing Director of WEBEL, highlighted the importance of public-private collaborations and stated, “The synergy between government initiatives and private institutions is key to leveraging EdTech for the benefit of all. In today’s fast-paced digital era, the realm of education technology (EdTech) stands as a beacon of transformative potential. To harness this potential effectively, we must recognise that the synergy between government initiatives and private enterprises is pivotal. Through these collaborations, we can ensure that EdTech solutions reach every corner of society, transcending barriers and benefiting learners of all backgrounds. Government support can pave the way for policy frameworks, funding and infrastructure, while private institutions bring innovation, agility, and expertise to the table. Together, we create an ecosystem where the power of technology is harnessed for the betterment of education on a large scale, enriching the lives of countless individuals and propelling our nation towards a brighter future. As someone deeply committed to the advancement of education through technology, I firmly believe that by fostering these collaborations, we can unlock the true potential of EdTech. Together, we can build a brighter future where every individual has the opportunity to access high-quality education, regardless of their circumstances. The synergy between government initiatives and private institutions is not just a key; it is the very foundation upon which we can build a more inclusive and empowered society.”

Dr. Debanjan Chakrabarti, Director of British Council East and Northeast, discussed the international perspective and said, “EdTech knows no borders. It connects learners across the globe and fosters cross-cultural understanding. In my own experience, I have witnessed the transformative power of EdTech firsthand. It has transcended geographical boundaries, bridging the gaps that once separated students and educators from different corners of the globe. Through online platforms and virtual classrooms, I have had the privilege of engaging with a diverse array of learners, each with their own unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. The beauty of EdTech lies in its ability to break down barriers and facilitate meaningful connections. It empowers individuals to access high-quality education regardless of their physical location, socioeconomic status, or cultural background. This democratization of knowledge not only enriches the lives of individual learners but also strengthens the global community as a whole. Moreover, EdTech has become a powerful tool for promoting cross-cultural understanding. By bringing together students and educators from diverse cultural backgrounds, it creates opportunities for dialogue, collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Through these interactions, learners gain valuable insights into different cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking, fostering empathy and mutual respect.”

While delivering the vote of thanks, Sardar Simarpreet Singh, Co-Chairman, ICC National Expert Committee on Higher Education & Training and Director, JIS Group, shared his insights on the significance of this event and said, “Today, we’ve witnessed a convergence of great minds, a symphony of ideas, and a commitment to shaping the future of education through EdTech. As we heard from distinguished speakers on the transformative potential of technology in education, it is evident that EdTech is not just a tool; it’s a catalyst for change. As we move forward, let us remember that the path to a brighter future in education is illuminated by our collective efforts, innovation, and collaboration. The EdTech revolution is not just a trend; it’s a revolution that will shape generations to come. Together, we shall continue to empower and transform education for a brighter and more inclusive future.”

Vice Chancellor, Sister Nivedita University; Mr. Pradip Agarwal, CEO, Heritage Institute of Technology; Mr Jaydeep Saha, CEO Empwr.ed, Singapore.