Archives October 2023

New Delhi, 9th October 2023- Chitkara University, a beacon of excellence in the field of education, proudly bestowed the prestigious Honorary Degree of Doctor of Literature (Honoris Causa) upon Mr. Bharat Goenka, the illustrious Founder and Vice Chairperson of Tally Solutions Pvt. Ltd, India’s leading Business Management Software provider. The award recognizes Mr. Goenka’s extraordinary contributions, transformative influence, and steadfast dedication to the realms of technology and business.

Hailed as the “Father of the Indian software product industry” and lauded with the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award by NASSCOM in 2011, Mr. Goenka stands as an icon of innovation and entrepreneurship in the technology sector. As the founder of Tally Solutions, he has played a pioneering role in revolutionizing the landscape of business management software products, with a global user base exceeding 7.2 million.

The Honorary Doctorate was presented to Mr. Goenka by the esteemed Dr. Ashok K Chitkara, Chancellor of Chitkara University, and Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, during a grand convocation that celebrated his outstanding achievements.

Mr. Goenka’s journey commenced in 1984 when he received an IBM PC as a gift from his father, setting the stage for a technological revolution that would touch millions of MSME businesses worldwide. His ingenuity gave birth to ‘The Accountant,’ a revolutionary accounting software devoid of complex coding, which later evolved into Tally Solutions in 1999. Soon, Tally.ERP 9, the world’s first concurrent multi-lingual business accounting and inventory software, marked a paradigm shift, and the latest offering, TallyPrime, continues to set industry standards with its user-friendly interface and seamless experience. Under Mr. Goenka’s dynamic leadership, Tally has evolved from a simple accounting package for SMEs to a comprehensive business management software serving enterprises of all sizes and types.

Receiving the Honorary Degree, Mr. Bharat Goenka said, “I feel truly humbled and honoured to receive the Honorary Doctorate of Literature from an esteemed University like Chitkara. I have been blessed to be a part of Tally’s story and witness the unfolding of its magic over the years. It’s been my absolute privilege to meet and interact with the esteemed faculty and the bright students at the Chitkara University .”

Dr. Ashok K Chitkara, Chancellor of Chitkara University, Punjab, expressed, “Mr. Bharat Goenka’s legacy as a trailblazer and innovator will continue to inspire future generations, paving the way for a brighter and more innovative future for our nation and the world. The Honorary Doctorate is in recognition of Mr. Goenka’s tremendous contributions to the Indian software product industry, technological innovation, and entrepreneurial leadership. Chitkara University extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Bharat Goenka and confers upon him this well-deserved doctorate.”

Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro Chancellor of Chitkara University, Punjab, commended Mr. Goenka’s exceptional contributions to the software product industry, emphasizing their profound impact on technological innovation and entrepreneurial leadership. She remarked, “Mr. Goenka’s relentless pursuit of innovation has ignited a revolution in technology. We honour his pioneering spirit and foresee his legacy inspiring countless future trailblazers.”

Mr. Goenka’s outstanding contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri award, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, recognizing his outstanding impact on trade and industry. His visionary leadership has not only transformed the technology industry but also empowered countless businesses to thrive.

Mumbai9th October 2023 Walplast, a leading name in the construction and building materials industry has been honoured by the prestigious “Realty+ Harit Bharat Leadership Summit & Awards 2023” for its Self – Curing Plaster (Category – HB Products – Interior Decor and Sub Category – Harit Bharat Products – Wall Finishes), lauded for its exceptional contributions to sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices.

The Realty+ Harit Bharat Leadership Summit & Awards 2023 hold a distinguished reputation for recognizing and celebrating the endeavours of organizations and individuals dedicated to promoting green and sustainable initiatives within the real estate and construction sector. The awards program serves as a platform to acknowledge the remarkable commitment and innovative approaches that contribute to a healthier and more sustainable environment in the building, construction, architecture, and co-working spaces.

Walplast has consistently been at the forefront of promoting environmentally conscious construction practices by offering a diverse range of products that not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance energy efficiency, contributing to the overall sustainability of construction projects. For the award, the company submitted its flagship product, the Self-Curing Plaster, a water-saving, time-saving and strength-boosting solution that creates durable, low-maintenance buildings. This product is fully recyclable, containing 5% recycled materials, thus promoting sustainability and a circular economy. An expert panel of industry veterans and influencers judged the awards, recognizing the impact of Walplast’s innovations.

Mr. Kaushal Mehta, Managing Director of Walplast, enthusiastically shared his thoughts on this prestigious win, stating, “We are deeply honoured to receive the Harit Bharat Leadership Summit & Awards 2023 from Realty+ in recognition of our steadfast commitment to sustainable construction practices. At Walplast, we envision a future where construction projects not only fulfill current needs but also safeguard the environment for generations to come. This award serves as a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating a greener and healthier India.”

Walplast’s innovative product lineup includes eco-friendly wall finishing materials, insulation systems, and energy-efficient construction technologies, all of which have played a pivotal role in minimizing the carbon footprint of construction projects nationwide. This prestigious accolade reaffirms Walplast’s dedication to environmental stewardship and underscores its mission to create a greener and healthier India. The company remains committed to investing in research and development, with a primary focus on advancing sustainable construction practices and further reducing the ecological footprint of the construction industry. Walplast’s ongoing efforts are aligned with its core belief in responsible and sustainable development, ensuring a brighter and greener future for India’s construction landscape

Mumbai,9th October 2023  Conceptualising the fusion of fashion, architecture, and technology into a cohesive textile installation, Minal Gala, a design student from Istituto Marangoni Mumbai, joined forces with the innovative Architecture studio Morphlab to present ‘Threads of Life.’ This captivating installation came to life within the inspiring setting of MorphLab in Mumbai.

The theory behind this installation was to display the odyssey of the magnificent, microscopic narrative that starts through the integration of the ovary and the sperm and eventually evolves into the creation of the wonderful voyage of life. This microscopic yet momentous event weaves a narrative rich in complexity and significance. Life’s symphony unfolds, intertwining threads of challenges and triumphs. Amid this intricacy, a serene clarity emerges, akin to the calm after a storm. This artistic odyssey, expressed through weaving, macramé, crochet, and braiding, comes to life with the touch of wool and cotton. White, red, orange, and yellow hues breathe life into the full spectrum of human experience.

Talking about the installation and her journey in creating it, Minal says, “Gratitude flows to those who believed in my vision, from my mentors, Mevin, Manuela, Janet, and Camille; to the owner of MorphLab who gave me the space to generate this art piece, Sahil Jain. This project serves as a testament to the boundless possibilities that life holds, reminding us that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s aspirations and that life, despite its ups and downs, is an exquisite journey enriched by remarkable experiences.”

Elaborating more on this installation Sahil Jain (Principal architect of Morphlab) states “Our studio space has evolved into a vibrant platform for art, where creativity knows no bounds. The installation seamlessly fuses with our product collection Nuolo, extending its essence into the realms of art. Minal’s creation serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities when design and art converge. Projection mapping by Floating canvas company adds another dimension to our vision, enriching the viewer’s experience with immersive storytelling.”

New Delhi, 9th October 2023:- Recognizing his lifelong contribution to the field of conservation in India, Mr Hemendra Kothari, Chairman of the Nature Conservancy (TNC) India Advisory Board and DSP Asset Managers has been awarded the prestigious Oak Leaf Award during a ceremony in the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian in the US capital of Washington D.C.

Given by The Nature Conservancy, the world’s largest environment conservation organization having a presence in 76 countries around the globe, the Oak Leaf Awards are given to recognize trustees and volunteers who embody the organization’s values and whose accomplishments advance its mission.

The award is a testament to trustees and volunteers who have served as leaders for TNC and who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to elevating conservation strategies that align with the Conservancy’s 2030 goals. It also recognizes the personal commitment trustees and volunteers make to uphold TNC’s values.

Mr Kothari, a veteran investment banker, was instrumental in setting up the India presence of The Nature Conservancy in 2015. He guides the Conservancy’s work in the country as the Chairman of the advisory board of TNC India.

Mr Kothari has long been a supporter of conservation efforts and is one of the largest individual donors in wildlife and environment conservation in India. He is a Member of the State Board for Wildlife of Rajasthan under the Chairmanship of the Chief Minister, a member of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), appointed by the Government of India and a member of the Advisory Council of the Global Tiger Forum (GTF).

The award ceremony, held on October 3, saw the presence of the Conservancy’s trustees from around the world who will help the Conservancy achieve its audacious 2030 Goals. These goals include avoiding or sequestering 3 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year, helping 100 million people at severe risk of climate-related emergencies by protecting and restoring the health of natural habitats, conserve 1.6 billion acres of land as well as 1 million kilometres of river systems and 30 million hectares of lakes and wetlands by engaging in collaborative partnerships, among others.

Delhi, 07th October, 2023 :

In a much-awaited announcement, the All India Design Aptitude Test (AIDAT) 2023 is gearing up to become a pivotal moment for aspiring designers across the nation. Scheduled to take place on October 28, 2023, this prestigious entrance examination opens doors to a world of creative possibilities. The result for the AIDAT exam will be out on the 3rd of November 2023.

“AIDAT is a game-changer in the design education landscape. It provides students with a comprehensive toolkit for success, including study materials, industry insights, and personalized career guidance. The platform not only evaluates design aptitude but also empowers candidates with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed. AIDAT is a crucial resource for the design education ecosystem, ” said Dr. Shweta Choudhary, the Founder of CODE.

AIDAT Eligibility Criteria –

For Undergraduate (UG) Diploma & Degree Programs: Prospective candidates should have successfully cleared their 10+2 examinations from a recognized institution or board. This requirement sets the foundation for nurturing young talents who aspire to delve into the vibrant world of design.

For Postgraduate (PG) Diploma & Degree Programs: Candidates aiming for the postgraduate level should hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution or college. This criterion acknowledges the academic prowess of individuals ready to pursue advanced studies in design.

AIDAT 2023: Embracing the Digital Age –

AIDAT 2023, in a bold move toward technological innovation, will be conducted entirely in an online mode. This progressive step enables candidates to participate in the examination from the comfort of their preferred digital devices, be it a mobile phone, laptop, or desktop. This flexible approach not only accommodates a wide range of candidates but also aligns with the digital age’s demands and convenience.

Guidelines and Exam Portal Access –

To facilitate a smooth and informed examination experience, AIDAT 2023 has set clear guidelines and procedures in place. Within 24 hours of registering for AIDAT, candidates will receive a comprehensive exam guide and a direct link to the AIDAT exam portal via email. It is imperative that candidates carefully peruse the exam guide, as it contains crucial information to help them navigate the examination process effectively.

The exam guide will not only elucidate the structure and format of the test but also offer insights into essential instructions and protocols. Adhering to these guidelines is of utmost importance to ensure a fair and transparent evaluation process.

An Opportunity to Unleash Creativity –

As October 28, 2023, approaches, aspiring designers are urged to register promptly for AIDAT 2023, keeping in mind the eligibility criteria. In the coming weeks, thousands of creative minds will converge online to compete in this prestigious examination, each with the dream of shaping a brighter, more innovative future through design. As the countdown to AIDAT 2023 begins, the creative landscape of India eagerly anticipates the unveiling of the next generation of design visionaries.

Let’s have a look at what students say about AIDAT-

Nikita Agarwal, a student from Lucknow, said, ” AIDAT is more than just an entrance exam; it’s a transformative experience for any aspiring designer. The career guidance and counseling I received were invaluable in shaping my design journey. The platform not only prepared me for the exams but also broadened my horizons about the design world. It’s not just an exam; it’s a stepping stone to a world of possibilities.”

” I stumbled upon AIDAT when I was desperately searching for guidance to crack the tough design entrance exams. Little did I know that it would turn out to be a game-changer in my life. The reading material and mentorship provided by AIDAT were instrumental in helping me prepare effectively. AIDAT not only paved my way into a top design institution but also instilled in me the confidence and skills to succeed in the world of design, ” said, Rohit Mehrotra, a student from Delhi.

07 October 2023, Bengaluru: With October, we have entered the year-end festive season for 2023. With everyone in festive mood, Lulu Mall presents Oktoberfest this weekend at The North Courtyard of the mall. Oktoberfest will be held on Saturday & Sunday – 7th and 8th October from 5 PM to 11 PM. With live food counters, games, live DJ, and Band performances, this weekend promises to be an eventful and spirited one!

About Lulu Mall, Rajajinagar:

The latest venture from multinational conglomerate, Lulu Group International, Lulu Mall – Bengaluru has become one of the biggest attractions in the city with its unique offerings of Lulu Hypermarket – the biggest Hypermarket in Bengaluru, spread across 2 lakh sq ft, and a first-of its-kind entertainment zone, Funtura. Strategically located in Rajajinagar, with easy access from Vidhan Soudha, Lulu Mall, is an eclectic ensemble of retail offerings spread across five storeys and spanning over 8 lakh sq ft., with 132 stores and 17 kiosks. The Food Court is a whopping 1000-seater, with over 23 outlets.

Srikanth Badiga, elected as Regional President, Southern Region of IACC Ganesh Subudhi, elected as Chairman, IACC, AP and Telangana

Srikanth Badiga, elected as Regional President, Southern Region of IACC

Hyderabad, October 07, 2023……Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Chapter elected a new team of Office Bearers.

Mr. Srikanth Badiga, Group Director, Phoenix Group was elected as the Regional President for the Southern Region of IACC in an election held on Saturday in the city.

Mr. K. Ganesh Subudhi, CFO, K. Raheja IT Park (Hyderabad) Limited, is unanimously elected as the Chairman of IACC AP & TS.  Mr. Avinash Chukkapalli, Director, Phoenix Infocity Private Limited, is unanimously elected as the First Vice Chairman and Ms. Sreedevi Devireddy, Director, Venture Development Centre, GITAM, as the second Vice – Chairperson of IACC AP & TS.

The newly elected leaders said the membership growth with more women leaders in IACC, increased engagement of members, and engaging stakeholders and the government on matters of great concern are a few areas of priority during their term in office.

The newly elected Regional President, Srikanth Badiga is a well-known corporate leader of the city and served on many panels of various central government panels and international panels. He has been on various committees and industrial bodies. Some of them include the National Vice Chairman, EPCES, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt of India.; Board of Director – Asia, on the World Free Zones Organisation and others.   He is the First Chairman of ASSOCHAM Telangana State Development Council and completed three terms of tenure this year.

The newly elected IACC AP & TS Chairman K. Ganesh Subudhi is a Chartered accountant and law graduate with 24 years of experience. He is currently working with the CFO of the K. Raheja group.

The Vice Chairman, Mr. Avinash Babu is a graduate of MS Henley Business School, United Kingdom and has over 10 years of experience in the automobile and real estate industry. His proven track record has taken Phoenix Group as Director to greater heights.

Another Vice Chairperson, Ms. Devireddy Sreedevi, Vice Chairperson, is a thought leader in the Innovation and entrepreneurship Ecosystem of India. She currently heads the Venture Development Centre at GITAM (Deemed to be University)

The IACC, established in 1968, is the apex bilateral Chamber synergizing India-US Economic Engagement. It was started by Ambassador Chester Bowles along with the then Industry leaders and visionaries like Mr S L Kirloskar, Mr Harish Mahindra, Mr H. P. Nanda, Mr Ambalal Kilachand, Mr A. M. M. Arunachalam, Mr Frederick Fales and Mr John Oris Sims for enhancing US India Economic Engagement. Today IACC has a pan-India presence with around 1500+ members, representing a cross-section of US and Indian Industries.

Delhi NCR,6th October 2023 The coming-of-age, trailblazing branding agency, Bonobo Creatives proudly announces a collaboration with accomplished actor and celebrity Rajesh Kumar for their quirky ‘Gandi Branding’ campaign. Known for his unforgettable portrayal of Rosesh Sarabhai in the beloved cult TV show ‘Sarabhai vs. Sarabhai’, Rajesh will feature in the agency’s inaugural digital campaign.

In an ingenious move, Bonobo has re-created the famous ‘Rosesh’s Kavita (Ode)’ to strategically showcase the agency’s creative prowess. Through his endearing ode that puns upon businesses that suffer due to abysmal branding, Rosesh aka actor Rajesh Kumar humorously highlights the importance of branding and advocates for Bonobo’s affordable solutions.

“Bonobo was born to address businesses’ need for a quality branding agency that wouldn’t cost an-arm-and-a-leg. Our collaboration with actor Rajesh Kumar reinstates our unwavering commitment to ideas that are beyond-the-ordinary and drive emotion for brands to connect with their audiences at a deeper level. We couldn’t have imagined a better voice as Rajesh shares our creative vision and values and has also extended his immense support to Bonobo. His atypical, artsy persona has added a new dimension to our brand – one of trust, creativity and cult ideation. We plan to collaborate with more renowned talent to position Bonobo as a brand of trust, and immense potential”, said Aayushi Jain, Founder & Creative Director of Bonobo Creatives.

At the vanguard of the industry’s dynamic transformation, Bonobo is steadfast in its mission to democratize access to branding solutions for businesses that have the potential to make it big. With a proven track record, to date, Bonobo has been instrumental in supporting over 2000 new, and mid-to-large enterprises on their journey to absolute brand transformation. This collaboration is sure to significantly contribute in accelerating Bonobo’s growth and solidifying its status as the preferred choice in the industry.

New Delhi/ Noida, 6th October 2023 – Magicbricks, India’s leading real estate platform, has launched its new multi-media marketing campaign, #StoryHarGharKi.

This captivating two-part ad campaign adopts a slice-of-life storytelling approach to underscore Magicbricks’ pivotal role in simplifying the home-buying and selling journey. Through Magicbricks, prospective homebuyers gain access to an extensive selection of relevant properties, complemented by expert advisories for informed decision-making. Simultaneously, potential home sellers can connect with high-intent buyers, expediting the home-selling process.

“The Indian real estate sector is at a promising juncture, fueled by accelerating residential market dynamics and growing interest from new customer demographics such as millennials and younger families. As the festive season beckons, we anticipate further growth in residential demand and supply. Hence, the campaign’s centerpiece revolves around our demonstrated leadership in seamlessly connecting home buyers and sellers, assisting them with advisories and relevant services in this high-involvement decision-making journey.” shared Devarshy R. Ganguly, Head of Marketing, Magicbricks.

Speaking about the creative treatment, Ankur Suman, Partner R K Swamy shared “We operate in a short-attention economy, and with content explosion, there is an overload of brand communique in the industry. Hence, our creative strategy focused on creating a simple and clear narrative. The ad film, designed to be both entertaining and informative, Showcases the world of a grumpy, but sweet-at-heart father-in-law, his daughter and son-in-law. This is a world of the typical Indian family, where affection is often expressed through sarcasm laced taunts, which often make the conversations humorous.

This campaign is strategically designed to span various media platforms, including a presence during the highly anticipated ICC World Cup 2023, as well as prominent slots in TV, print, OTT, digital, radio, and social media. This concerted effort aims to captivate the attention of over 100 million viewers, ensuring that Magicbricks’ message reaches a wide and diverse audience.

New Delhi, 6th October 2023: Following the resounding success of its premier food and beverage campaign, ‘More Than Food’ in India last year, the European Union (EU) extended its culinary offerings through an all-new exclusive gastronomical event, ‘Banter Over Brunch’. Anchoring the event, renowned chef, Chef Ajay Chopra assumed his status as the ambassador for the campaign once again and helped transport attendees on a captivating journey into the flavours of the European Member States through a delectable brunch spread.

The ‘More Than Food’ campaign in India was conceptualised with the aim to create a range of culinary experiences, bringing alive applications of European food and beverages in Indian cuisine with the objective to transport the audience to the picturesque and culturally rich landscape of the European Union. In line with this, ‘Banter Over Brunch’ saw a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including Berry blast smoothies, chocolate waffles, blackberry and Danablu (PGI) crostini, Mozzarella Avvolta Nel Prosciutto di Parma (PDO) and more, crafted from premium ingredients from the EU, such as fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, dairy and cheese, olive oil, chocolates, , along with pork and poultry products. The EU’s commitment to safety, quality, authenticity, and sustainability was at the heart of the menu, as Chef Ajay Chopra introduced each ingredient and its compelling heritage, as well as the EU’s ‘farm to fork’ strategy.

Sharing his thoughts on the extension of the campaign, H.E. Mr. Seppo Nurmi, Charge d’affaires a.i, Delegation of the European Union to India and Bhutan, said, “The idea behind EU’s More Than Food Campaign was to bring to Indian audiences exquisite culinary experiences from across Europe, while highlighting our commitment to vigorous food safety regulations that ensures that every European product that one bites into or drink is authentic, of exceptional quality, sustainable, and safe. Given the overwhelming response to the last campaign, we are happy to announce the extension of the campaign. We look forward to our Indo-European collaboration with the Chefs as well as unique curated events that we hope will bring out the rich European flavours.”

Speaking about the event, Chef Ajay Chopra Ambassador for the More Than Food campaign in India said, “I am thrilled and honoured to continue my association with the European Union’s ‘More Than Food’ campaign in India, especially as we bring this celebration forward with ‘Banter Over Brunch.’ European ingredients are a testament to the rich and diverse European culture, and this event offers our audience a unique opportunity to savour these culinary treasures. This event and partnership with the EU helped us explore exquisite European food and beverages, knowing they embody authenticity, excellent quality, sustainability, and safety. I look forward to seeing how our guests will craft their own delightful brunch experiences with these incredible ingredients, adding to the tapestry of European food culture.”

The guests were seen in awe of the flavourful dishes and authentic ingredients as they enjoyed the sumptuous brunch curated by the chef. With ‘More Than Food’, the EU will continue to increase awareness about the diverse, rich stories of ingredients and agricultural products from the European Union with campaign ambassadors Chef Ajay Chopra and Chef Guntas Sethi. The campaign aims to celebrate the diversity of product from across the 27 EU Member States through a series of events, social media features, B2B activities, and promotions.

In addition, The European Commission is organising a High-Level Mission with EU Commissioner for Agriculture Mr. Janusz Wojciechowski to New Delhi and Mumbai on 6 – 12 December 2023, to facilitate business networking between high-level delegates from the European agri-food sector and their Indian counterparts. Follow up the updates about the outcomes on High-level Mission on our website.

The Indian market places a lot of value on high quality, authentic products, which is evidenced by the level of imports of EU food and drink, amounting to €857 million in 2021. However, given the size of the Indian market – there is room for significant growth in exports of EU food and beverages, and the ‘More Than Food’ campaign is an initiative aimed at capitalizing on this potential.

Food and beverages from the European Union are available at multiple online and on-ground retail outlets across India.