Archives November 2023

The Four Logistics Companies Excelling in Last-Mile Delivery Optimization Amidst the Festive Rush. These industry frontrunners have harnessed cutting-edge technology, bolstered their supply chains, and displayed an unwavering commitment to delivering customer satisfaction. As we explore their innovative strategies and practices, we will gain a deeper understanding of how these companies are reshaping the logistics industry, ensuring that every holiday season is a period of joy and punctuality.

Transport Corporation of India (TCI)- TCI, with revenues of over Rs. 6200 Cr is India’s leading integrated supply chain and logistics solutions provider. TCI group with expertise developed over 6 decades has an extensive network of company-owned offices, 14 Mn. Sq. Ft. of warehousing space and a strong team of trained employees. With its customer-centric approach, world-class resources, state-of-the-art technology, and professional management, the group follows strong corporate governance and is committed to value creation for its stakeholders and social responsibilities. TCI was the first to launch several solutions in the logistics field.

Falcon Autotech- Falcon Autotech is a global intralogistics automation solutions company. With over 10 years of experience, Falcon has worked with some of the most innovative brands in E-Commerce, CEP, Fashion, Food/FMCG, Auto, and Pharmaceutical Industries. With its proprietary software and robust hardware integration capabilities, Falcon designs, manufactures, supplies, implements, and maintains world-class warehouse automation systems globally. Falcon’s strong research and development team and the continuous focus on innovation reflect our strong solution line around Sortation, Robotics, Conveying, Vision Systems, and IoT. Falcon has done over 1,800 installations across 15 countries on 4 continents.

Locus- Locus is a market-leading dispatch management SaaS company, helping global enterprises transform their end-to-end logistics operations from cost centers to revenue generators through advanced optimization algorithms and intuitive workflow automation. Backed by GIC Singapore, Tiger Global, Qualcomm Ventures, and Falcon Edge, it has helped many global customers across industries – Unilever, Nestle, The Tata Group, BlueDart, etc. – execute 850 million deliveries across 30+ countries. Its technology has also helped save $275 million in transit costs and offset 10 million kilograms in CO2 emissions while maintaining a 99.5% SLA adherence ratio.

iThink Logistics- is an end-to-end multiple courier aggregator shipping platform for D2C Brands which services to 26,000+ pin codes in India. The company’s cutting-edge online portal can be linked with marketplaces or online stores through APIs (for importing orders) and has a built-in channel that connects with multiple renowned courier partners. Clients can also book parcel shipping services and print labels using the service. Additionally, the technology provides real-time shipment tracking updates. The following are the most notable features that iThink Logistics provides: A patented 6- step NDR, an insightful dashboard, and a dedicated key account manager. The Mumbai-based company was conceived by industrious individuals with a far-sighted vision for the Indian e-commerce market and logistics ecosystem. Today, the company has 5000+ satisfied customers, an impressive daily volume of 25,000+shipments, a comprehensive reach to all parts of the country demonstrated by 26000+ pin codes served, and the territorial coverage of 180 countries.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s crucial to recognize the often-unseen champions working tirelessly behind the scenes to uphold the magic of this time of year. Four logistics firms, each employing distinct strategies to streamline the final stretch of delivery, consistently prove their mettle amid the festive frenzy. Whether through cutting-edge technology, robust supply chain methods, or a dedicated workforce, they epitomize the notion that punctual delivery of joy and delight isn’t just a slogan—it’s a dedicated mission. In a landscape where customer expectations are ever on the rise, these logistics companies have met the challenge, offering valuable insights into managing and enhancing the ultimate phase of delivery. Their unwavering commitment to excellence, even amidst the intense pressures of the holiday rush, has not only nurtured trust among their clientele but also established a formidable standard for the entire industry.

As we eagerly await the festive season, we can trust that these logistics companies will be the invisible yet essential force guaranteeing that gifts, surprises, and precious moments arrive at our doorsteps just as intended. The art of optimizing the final leg of delivery has never been more vital, and these companies consistently demonstrate their mastery of it. They’ve undeniably earned their role as indispensable allies in ensuring the holidays retain their magical essence.

Mumbai, 11th November 2023: Hoopr, a cutting-edge music licensing platform based in Mumbai, has joined forces with Myntra FWD to introduce a groundbreaking new Intellectual Property (IP) named SoundEscape, a one-of-its-kind experiential event specially curated for content creators, where creators are invited to escape to a beautiful villa and leave behind the hustle of the city, filled with music performed by talented Indie artists.

The first iteration of SoundEscape was held in Goa at a beautiful, luxury villa and the audience consisted of fashion influencers from all over India. In perfect synergy with what Hoopr has to offer, there was live music at the event too with two performing acts – Rupinn Pahwa, ‘The Stage’ Finalist (2016) and award-winning writer of viral song ‘Tareefan’ from the movie ‘Veere Di Wedding,’ and upcoming indie duo Ankit & Aayushi. SoundEscape also culminates into a digital format so that it can be consumed in the form of music videos across various social platforms.

One of the key purposes of this event is to bring together artists and creators, essentially connecting the people who make the music with the ones who use it. SoundEscape is viewed as a new and creative take on intimate musical experiences. Gaurav, Dagaonkar, CEO and Co-founder of Hoopr said, “We’re heavily invested in the idea of the creator economy and believe that it can become much bigger than what it is right now. We want to make every effort to enrich and make the lives of creators easier. Music plays a big role in ensuring this happens. We’re also excited to collaborate with Myntra FWD who shares the exact same philosophy as us on the power of the creator economy.”

The synergy between Myntra FWD and Hoopr sparks a memorable alliance that highlights the strengths of both brands and underscores the importance of creators and the creator economy. Myntra FWD expressed their excitement about the collaboration, noting that SoundEscape has set the stage for a remarkable fusion of Fashion, Music, and Creators, promising unique and awe-inspiring experiences in the future.

“We were thrilled to collaborate with Hoopr on SoundEscape. The event in Goa set the ball rolling on an exciting IP where Fashion, Music, and Creators will come together to create an unique and unforgettable event. We’re excited for the future of SoundEscape and hope to keep providing creators with an experience that is unique and awe-inspiring! “expressed the Myntra FWD team.

Hoopr is India’s premier music licensing platform with over 12,000 songs, background scores, and sound effects. This is something that content creators, brands, and all users of music who would like to elevate their content need. In addition to this, the amalgamation of music with the presence of creators at StayVista’s luxurious property made for a very interesting setting. One can’t ever go wrong with a night full of fashion, music, and beautiful tropical locations. What was also highlighted was StayVista’s endeavour to make every stay memorable by performing songs and capturing these moments and experiences to create visual memories across StayVista’s luxury villas across the country.

As an IP, SoundEscape that took place in Goa will be the first of many in the near future. The highlight of these events will be artists performing their songs to a small, intimate & curated audience who showcase how music and locations have a positive impact on the creative & human experience. Dagaonkar added, “The synergy between Hoopr, Myntra FWD, and StayVista was evident at SoundEscape. What came through and was highlighted was the fact that music is something that can bring together people and can serve as a flavourful backdrop that elevates any idea. What also complemented this idea was the fabulous villa that StayVista hosted us at. Having a great idea is one thing, having it executed with the perfect backdrop truly made the event one to remember. Going forward, we plan on making this a regular event for creators across the country.”

SoundEscape events facilitate the convergence of two vital yet seldom-connected groups: video and music creators, and musicians. The creator economy is poised to reach new heights, and events like these bring together two distinct but essential groups. They serve as networking opportunities for creators, musicians, brands, and more, promising to elevate SoundEscape and inspire similar future events.

Mumbai,11th November 2023: Amazon miniTV- Amazon’s free video streaming service, recently released a series titled – The Adventures of Lleo. Featuring Anandeshwar Dwivedi as Lleo, it takes us through his adventurous journey filled with unusual survival tricks, and hilarious one-liners, making it a fun watch. Known from the popular series, Permanent Roommates, Anandeshwar Dwivedi, opened up about the preparations he did while writing and playing Lleo on-screen.

Anandeshwar said, “The writing was the main task for this project actually, we did most of the preparation for it. We were writing about Lleo after such a long time, and it was the tough part to write about a character that we are not accustomed with. So most of the work and brushing up was required in writing, for acting I was ready familiar with the character. So when I was writing about it, that made the work easier. We had to create a bizarre world which is also believable, so that people watch it with interest. A story of a person who becomes a millionaire all of a sudden and then loses his possessions, so to show how he is living his life, dealing with situations and to make it entertaining for viewers as well. For me this journey was more satisfying as a writer as compared to being an actor. We always say that writing is the base, and if it is not good, it wont come out as what you wanted it to be. If the script is good, believable and interesting, it makes the work of the actor much easier. So I would say as compared to acting, the writing part was more challenging”

The Adventures of Lleo captures the life of the most adored character from Permanent Roommates, Lleo, also known as Laxman Laal Ebote, unexpectedly becomes wealthy after inheriting $500,000,000 from a Nigerian prince. He is surrounded by Russian girls and leads an opulent life. While playing a game, Lleo clicks on a donation link, gets tricked, and all of his possessions are taken. Lleo’s adventures begin now that he is on the streets where he meets Purushottam the taxi driver who becomes his friend in his journey.

Elevate your mood by experiencing Lleo’s exhilarating and joyful journey, taking on a humorous challenge every other second. Adventures of Lleo is currently streaming exclusively on Amazon miniTV available on Amazon’s shopping app, on Fire TV, and on Play Store.

11th November 2023: News18 Gujarati concluded its flagship event ‘Rising Gujarat’ with the theme ‘Vibrant Gujarat’ this year. News18 Gujarati’s ‘Rising Gujarat’ brought forth an insightful discussion on the notable steps the state has taken in the last two decades. The celebration was attended by prominent state figures.

Mentioned below are the topics discussed by the key speakers of the event –

Gujarat’s tourism successes during the last 20 years have been highlighted by Mr. Mulu Bera, Minister of Tourism, Forest, and Environment. From a multitude of MOUs signed to visionary government policies, he outlined a promising future for the sector. Mr. Harsh Sanghvi – Prohibition, Disaster Management, and Border Security Minister discussed Gujarat’s commitment to combatting drug use, maintaining disaster resilience, and bolstering border security. He also stressed preparations for youth-focused activities, as well as the grandiose ambition of hosting the Olympics in Ahmedabad.

Mr. Balvantsingh Rajput, Cabinet Minister of Industries, Civil Aviation, Rural Development, Labour and Employment spoke about the tremendous progress made in airport development and industry cooperation over the last two decades. He also shed light on future airport expansions and the government’s industry-centric policies. Mr Rushikesh Patel, Health, Family Welfare, Higher & Technical Education emphasized Gujarat’s outstanding growth in the health and education sectors. He also unveiled plans for ‘Smart Schools’ and the creation of AIIMS in the state, predicting a bright future.

Finally, Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel narrated Gujarat’s holistic development journey. From employment and industries to infrastructure, tourism, health, and education, he asserted Gujarat’s role as a catalyst in propelling India toward a trillion-dollar economy.

The event was Co-powered by Reliance Industries Limited and the Associate Sponsors were Hero India, Wonder Masala, Tata Motors, and Steptrade.

News18 Gujarati’s ‘Rising Gujarat’ showcased Gujarat’s unwavering commitment to progress, positioning itself as a pivotal state in the nation’s economic growth.

Mumbai, 11th November 2023 Last month, NASA began the transition to elevate its primary digital platforms NASA.gov, science.nasa.gov, and NASA + backed by years of user experience preparation, planning, research, design, testing, and refinement with Blink UX, an Mphasis Company.

Blink’s researchers surveyed 2,633 audience members, interviewed 202 NASA stakeholders, and conducted 268 quantitative user research sessions to build the foundation for the robust experience strategy and design system behind NASA’s reimagined web experience.

NASA believes a unified NASA.gov experience will allow them to build a broader, more engaged audience around the world and inspire the next generation of scientists.

The three new web platforms offer a user-friendly, topic-driven experience featuring a powerful search engine, easy navigation, and improved publishing tools that will enable content creators to tell consistent, engaging stories to captivate the American public and inspire the next generation of scientists.

NASA partnered with Blink for the firm’s expertise and commitment to a user-centered design approach, experience modernizing legacy platforms, and ability to implement a custom design system.

Read our case study, explore the reimagined NASA.gov and science.nasa.gov, and stay tuned for the upcoming launch of the new streaming platform, NASA +.

Kochi, 11th, November 2023: The 30-year-old woman working in the finance sector couldn’t think of the possibility of resuming her work two years back when doctors informed her that she would be confined to a bed indefinitely. But God’s plans were different, To quote her precisely, “In the deepest corner of my heart, I was not ready to give up. Even if I wanted to, the doctors at Aster Medcity didn’t allow me to.”

In the face of overwhelming adversity, she has defied the odds over a devastating spinal injury. Her journey began with a traumatic accident in Kochi when she was heading to her workplace. Her scooter was hit by a car that left her beneath the car, fracturing her spine and severing her spinal cord. The severity of her injuries, including a collapsed left lung, pushed her into a month-long stay in the intensive care unit and on a ventilator at a private hospital in Kochi. Doctors initially predicted a bleak future, indicating she might be bedridden forever. She spent a month in the ICU and ventilator before being sent home with no improvement from physiotherapy leaving no hope.

Her family’s hopes were shattered, and the prospect of three months’ wait for admission in Vellore further added to their distress. That’s when she was referred to Dr. K. M Mathew, Senior Consultant – Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Aster Medcity, Kochi.

Upon arrival at Aster Medcity, the medical team, conducted a thorough assessment and identified gaps in the previous treatment. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, the team focused on making her independent through a structured multidisciplinary approach.

At Aster Medcity, a structured multidisciplinary rehabilitation plan was initiated. Goals were set, and the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) score, initially at 0/100, witnessed a miraculous improvement.

Physiotherapy and occupational therapy sessions were tailored to address specific challenges, including chest physio, strengthening of upper limbs, activities of daily living (ADL) training, and effective bed positioning. The initiation of a bowel program with stimulants, dietary modifications, and manual evacuation played a crucial role in her holistic recovery.

Overcoming challenges such as recurrent infections, orthostatic hypotension, and mental health concerns, the medical team orchestrated a meticulous care plan that addressed her physical, psychological, and emotional well-being.

Aster Medcity’s relentless efforts, along with the patient’s determination, led to her regaining sensation in her hands, performing daily activities like brushing and eating, and achieving antigravity movements in her upper limbs.

“The patient’s journey showcases the power of multidisciplinary care and patient-centric rehabilitation. Her progress is a testament to our commitment to clinical excellence and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in spinal cord rehabilitation. All thanks to the medical team, her husband and the family who stood for her. “said Dr. K. M Mathew, Senior Consultant – Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Aster Medcity, Kochi.

Weekly multidisciplinary goal plan meetings ensured continuous communication and collaboration among the patient, family, and the treating team. Despite hurdles such as fever, rise in ESR, and intermittent health issues, her recovery remained steadfast. Two years have passed since the accident, and now she has successfully returned to full-time employment with the same place.

As she progresses towards independence in ADLs, wheelchair mobilization, and regular bowel programs, the option of upper limb tendon transfers to further enhance her functional status is being considered. Her stability and remarkable recovery have culminated in her discharge from Aster Medcity, marking a testament to the hospital’s dedication to clinical excellence and patient-centric care.

Gurugram,11th November 2023: As India celebrates Diwali, Akzo Nobel India, the makers of Dulux paints, is celebrating its Indradhanush women who are painting an empowered and diverse future in rural India.

In 2021, AkzoNobel India launched Project Indradhanush with one objective – enabling women to drive micro-entrepreneurship and socio-economic development in rural India. The societal initiative that started from one village in Assam has now expanded to benefit women in 500 villages across the six states of Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka.

Elaborating on the inspiring impact of this initiative, Rajiv Rajgopal, Managing Director, Akzo Nobel India said, “On the joyous occasion of Diwali, we are proud that Project Indradhanush is playing a role in lighting up a more sustainable future in rural India. By providing women with the necessary paint know-how, resources, and vocational skills in the form of decorative paint application and entrepreneurship training, Project Indradhanush is unlocking a colorful rainbow of hope, empowerment, and financial independence at the grassroots level.”

To date, Project Indradhanush has raised awareness about new livelihood opportunities available in the paint business to 34,000 rural women. More than 1,500 rural women are now challenging gender norms as vocationally trained Indradhanush painters. For many like 35-year-old Sonti Deka, whose husband is a daily wage worker, every lick of paint has a deeper meaning. It’s adding to her savings so that she can support her daughter’s college education next year.

Project Indradhanush has also created over 300 first-time women paint entrepreneurs in 500 villages of India! Many of the Indradhanush paint-preneurs, who were earlier either homemakers or managing existing small shops including grocery, stationary, etc., are now transforming the paint industry in the hinterlands while also adding a layer of financial resilience for their families.

Take the case of the 24-year-old Pallavi Bera from the Kulberia village in the East Midnapore district of West Bengal. After undergoing the intensive Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP) training, Pallabi started her own paint shop with the support of AkzoNobel. Her paint shop has quickly gained popularity in her village and nearby areas and she’s already changed her family’s financial trajectory.

The final link of this self-sustaining 100% women-driven ecosystem are the Indradhanush dealerships – the bridge between Indradhanush women painters and small store owners.

In the Singimari village of Assam’s Darrang district, Ajima Begum’s journey from a homemaker to a successful entrepreneur is heartwarming. From taking care of her family for two decades, Ajima decided to become a paint entrepreneur at the age of 42. As her daughter Mariyam adds, Ajima now has a new sense of pride and confidence that she can achieve anything she sets her mind into. Also grasping the opportunity with both hands are the four entrepreneurs from a women’s self-help group in Tamil Nadu. Previously blue-collar construction workers in their village, they’re now building exciting new futures in the paint industry.

Mumbai, November 10th, 2023: GIC Re announced financial performance for the half year ended 30th September 2023 at the Board Meeting of the company held in Mumbai.

We give below the details of our financial performance for the half year ended 30.09.2023:

Gross Premium Income of the company was ₹ 19,679.85 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2023 as compared to ₹ 19,122.45 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

Underwriting Loss is ₹ 3,029.04 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2023 as compared to ₹1,696.07 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

Investment Income is ₹ 5,555.91 crore for half year ended 30.09.2023 as compared to ₹ 5,096.75 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.
Solvency Ratio is 2.82 as on 30.09.2023 as compared to 2.25 as on 30.09.2022.

The company recorded Profit Before Tax of ₹ 2,782.78 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2023 as compared to Profit Before Tax of ₹ 3,450.08 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

Profit After Tax for the half year ended 30.09.2023 recorded as ₹ 2,336.87 crore as compared to Profit After Tax of ₹ 2,549.65 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

Total Assets are ₹ 1,67,640.89 crore as on 30.09.2023 as compared to ₹ 1,53,384.76 crore as on 30.09.2022.

Net Worth of the company (without fair value change account) recorded at ₹33,266.61 crore on 30.09.2023 as against ₹ 28,006.66 crore as on 30.09.2022.

Net Worth of the company (including fair value change account) recorded as ₹ 71,376.53 crore on 30.09.2023 as against ₹ 60,585.14 crore as on 30.09.2022.

Combined Ratio is 116.98 % for the half year ended 30.09.2023 as against 113.92 % for the half year ended 30.09.2022.
Adjusted Combined Ratio is 95.11 % for the half year ended 30.09.2023 as against 92.07% for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

Summary of Revenue and Profit and Loss Account

(₹’ crore)

International and Domestic Business Composition

(₹’ crore)

Breakup of Gross Premium

(₹’ crore)

Note:

Combined Ratio = (Net incurred claims/ Net earned premium) + (Management expenses + Commission on reinsurance)/ Net written premium

Net Commission = Commission paid on reinsurance accepted – Commission on reinsurance ceded.

Consolidated Financials of GIC Re

GIC Re’s group includes subsidiary companies namely, GIC Re South Africa, GIC Re Corporate Member, London, and GIC Perestrakhovanie LLC, Moscow. The group also includes three associate companies namely GIC Re Bhutan, India International Insurance Pte Ltd, Singapore and Agriculture Insurance Company of India Ltd. The group performance highlights based on Consolidated Financial Statements for the half year ended 30.09.2023 are given below:

· Consolidated Gross Premium Income of the company was ₹ 19,962.02 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2023 as compared to ₹ 19,367.00 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

· Investment Income of the group was ₹5,590.37 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2023 as compared to ₹ 5,111.19 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

· Consolidated Profit Before Tax for the half year ended 30.09.2023 was ₹ 3,008.94 crore as compared to Profit Before Tax of ₹3,701.64 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

· Consolidated Profit After Tax for half year ended 30.09.2023 was ₹ 2,666.60 crore as compared to Profit After Tax of ₹ 2,945.89 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

· Incurred claims Ratio is 95.72 % for the half year ended 30.09.2023 as compared to 95.01 % for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

· Group’s net worth (without fair value change account) for the half year ended 30.09.2023 is ₹36,498.86 crores as compared to ₹ 31,091.00 crore for the half year ended 30.09.2022.

Summary of Revenue and Profit and Loss Account of Consolidated Financials

(₹’ crore)

Bangalore, India, 10 November 2023: EU-India Innocenter, an EU funded project under the R&I framework programme ‘Horizon 2020’, brings its 8th cohort of seven European startups with over twenty investors and innovation Hubs, to explore collaborations with potential Indian startup stakeholders. EU-India Innocenter, a global innovation hub and growth accelerator connecting the European and Indian innovation ecosystem, is hosting six high-impact startups for a week of India-immersion activities in Bangalore. The startups, Anyline, Nano-tech, Cheesecake Energy, Enline, PVRmed, and Soula AI, provide solutions across key growth sectors spanning from healthtech, clean-tech to deep technology.

The European startups got an opportunity to demonstrate their cutting-edge technologies to startup ecosystem facilitators, including venture capitalists, potential partners, and corporations from India and various European countries, on the first day of their visit at the ‘Blue Carpet Night’ networking event held on 8th November at the Bangalore International Centre.

Throughout the week, the startups and investors will deep dive into the Indian startup ecosystem. The visit includes a roundtable discussion at NASSCOM Future Forge, a field-trip to Tata Elxsi, EU-India partnership roundtable focusing on smart cities and cross-border innovation with Indian real estate leaders, a pitch session with startups and VCs (both from EU and India) organised by KDEM (Karnataka Digital Economy Mission), a visit to DERBI Foundation and the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) all in Bangalore.

During the Blue Carpet night event, EU-India Innocenter announced extending its market-entry services to cater to Indian startups interested in exploring the European market. This two-way mobility between European and Indian startups shows how startups are increasingly becoming global.

Congratulating EU-India Innocenter on facilitating successful matchmaking between European and Indian startup businesses, Mr Seppo Nurmi, charge d’affaires, European Union Delegation to India said, “Startups are the pulse of any economy, accelerating innovation and sustainable development. We are glad to see that this EU funded initiative is helping unleash collaborative potential between the EU and Indian startup ecosystem, which we hope will lead to value creation for both economies and citizens.” He added, “The programme extending its market-entry support to Indian startups will further accelerate EU-India collaboration”.

Cristina Russo, Director for Global and International Cooperation in Research and Innovation in the European Commission, recognised the important role of startups in the trade nexus technology challenges. We praise the work of the EU-India Innovation Center for its thorough programme bringing such mature and diverse stakeholders to India. We also welcomed the programme’s initiative expanding support to Indian startups to explore the European market, it reflects well with the work under the recently launched Trade and Technology Council (TTC) between the EU and India.

­­­Varun Mallapragada, Programme Partner at the EU-India Innocenter, said, “We believe in our vision of supporting innovation diplomacy as a significant part of building stronger international relations. We are committed to creating opportunities, fostering collaborations, and shaping the future of tech-driven innovation.”

Rodrigo Olmedo, Programme Partner at the EU-India Innocenter, added, “We are grateful to our ecosystem stakeholders, investors, innovation hubs, and various government bodies across India and Europe, who play a major role in the success of our programme. We thank them all for a wonderful evening of innovation and collaboration and for their interest in sharing our vision of cross-continental innovation exchange.”

Michel Mellis, a seasoned investor in landing and accelerating tech startups, and Innovator from EGI Group, expressed keen interest in the programme’s initiative, adding, “India’s ascent as a global innovation powerhouse presents a golden opportunity for startups eyeing international expansion. The atmosphere is ripe for dynamic global collaborations and innovation.”

The Indian ecosystem of the programme includes innovation hubs and organizations namely, Startup India, Invest India, Tata Elxsi, JLL Idea Labs, KDEM, etc., including enterprises like, Jio, Titan Company Limited, TVS Motors, Accenture, etc. Additionally, it features EU innovation ecosystem players like, Technopol, Krakow Technopark, Hitachi Ventures, Cambridge Cleantech, among others.

To date, EU-India Innocenter has a track record of facilitating eight strategic partnerships from previous cohorts, who are currently in the phase of launching pilot projects in health-tech, clean-tech, deep-tech, logistics, sectors. The programme remains committed to connecting startups, creating opportunities, and strengthening ties between India and Europe through innovation. It continues to be the bridge of innovation for exchanging ideas, expertise, and resources among startups, research institutions, investors, and businesses.

India, November 10th, 2023: Hexagon’s R&D Center in India launched its Startup Catalyst Program for all startups working in the areas of Digital Reality and Autonomous Technologies. This program is an exciting new opportunity for startups to apply their ideas and capabilities to emerging but well-defined real-world problems in these areas, and, with Hexagon’s help, build full-scale solutions and take those to Indian and global customers.

This program is being launched with the support of T–Hub, the world’s largest incubation hub, which will bring its knowledge of the Indian startup ecosystem, best practices, and processes, to facilitate, guide and amplify the impact of this program.

Hexagon’s technology finds use in some of the largest enterprises, in critical operations in governments and defence, in manufacturing and process plants, in building smart cities and critical infrastructure, in automotive, shipbuilding, mining, agriculture, and protecting heritage monuments, amongst others. Being at the forefront of Digital Reality and Autonomous Technologies, with a global portfolio of customers, Hexagon brings an exceptional view into the current and emergent problems in these areas.

A startup interested in building up solutions using Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and/ or Digital Reality may choose to work on any one of three precise problems by submitting their idea and approach to the program and sharing their credentials:

● Building Digital Twins for EV Manufacturing
● Real-Time Language Detection and Translation
● Enabling Prescriptive Maintenance with AR and VR for Process Plants.

If the submission and credentials stand out, the startup will join a cohort of similarly chosen startups to build a full proof of concept (PoC). Each startup will have a mentor’s help during this period. The finalist from each cohort would win a prize, as well as gain the opportunity to build a full-scale solution working with Hexagon’s domain experts, on Hexagon’s futuristic technologies and platforms. Hexagon and the startups can then take these collaborative solutions to Hexagon’s customer base and scale them across geographies.

Commenting on the launch, Navaneet Mishra, Senior Vice President and Head of Hexagon’s R&D Center India, said “Indian startups are passionate, tech savvy and hardworking. With Hexagon’s Startup Catalyst Program, we are going to help them channel their energies and attention towards precisely defined real-world problems. We will support them with cutting-edge technology platforms, mentors to facilitate the co-solutions, and an opportunity to access global customers. We want to help startups from India scale their innovation globally, this program is an important step in that journey.”

MSR, CEO of T–Hub, said “Collaboration is the cornerstone of innovation, and our partnership with Hexagon for the new cohort of LAB32 represents a significant milestone in T–Hub‘s journey. At T–Hub, we believe in fostering an ecosystem that not only empowers entrepreneurs but also propels them toward global success. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to providing startups with the tools they need to thrive and make a meaningful impact on the world.”