Archives January 2024

11th January 2024: Gurugram-based start-up community builder PedalStart announced the launch of PedalCircle – India’s first Outcome-driven, offline cohort program in Bangalore, focused on accelerating early-stage start-ups’ journey from Proof-of-Concept (POC) to their first round of fundraising. Centered on empowering founding teams through access to knowledge, mentors, infrastructure, market access and growth capital, PedalCircle brings an unparalleled 3-month offline experience to significantly fast-track the progress of 25 exceptional founders in their early-stage entrepreneurial journey.

This first-of-its-kind cohort program will commence in Bangalore in the second week of February 2024. It aims to selectively pick only 25 start-ups from an anticipated applicant pool of over 2000+ start-ups via a highly competitive 5-step screening funnel that includes – form screening, analyst call, offline war room evaluation, final analyst call, and the final selection through a gala dinner event organized on 25th January in Bangalore where these founders will get access to top-notch Venture Capitalists, mentors, and ex-Start-up Founders. The screening process has been designed to be highly founder-friendly but thorough in assessing alignment across these key aspects.

After the final selection, 25 start-ups will be shortlisted and invited for the outcome-driven offline cohort program. During the 3 month program, the 25 shortlisted start-ups will have access to an expert PedalStart support team where they can leverage PedalStart’s shared resources pool across functions like marketing, tech, legal, recruiting, etc., on a usage basis, optimizing cash burn in the early days of building up the start-up. The founders will also have 1:1 mentor sessions with ex-founders and investors, tailored to the specific start-up needs at different phases of their entrepreneurial journey and focused on enabling success.

Speaking in PedalCircle, Manas Pal and Aditya Darolia, Co-Founder of PedalStart says, “We designed PedalCircle as a solution focused on filling very critical gaps faced by start-ups in their early stages – right guidance from those who have built ventures from the ground up before. Through the cohort, selected start-ups stand to get unparalleled access to infrastructure, knowledge, industry connections, mentors, market access channels, and growth capital – all aimed at accelerating their progress and providing the launch pad for success. PedalCircle also aims to differentiate itself by focusing on community building, an overlooked aspect. Participants get to engage intensively at the Innovation Hub for the duration of the program. This leads to strong personal bonds developed from shared experiences and war rooms, enabling them to learn collectively, avoid potential mistakes, and form a strong long-term founder relationship that lasts well beyond the program itself”.

By the end of the offline cohort, 5+ start-ups will get the opportunity to get the investment from PedalStart. These founders will receive funding of up to – $250K from the PedalStart network.

After completing the cohort, they also continue getting full access to PedalStart’s wider founder community platform, which consists of over 1600+ entrepreneurs. This lifelong community can be leveraged for potential partnerships, future growth needs and knowledge-sharing opportunities even after the 3-month accelerator experience.

The application registration for PedalCircle, India’s first cohort, has started and applicants can apply through this link- https://zfrmz.in/Uun0optJfSJA7bubdFcy. The registration ends on 18th January, 2024, with the 3-month program set to start in the second week of February 2024 in Bangalore. Early-stage start-ups from India and globally across sectors are invited to apply for this unique 3-month founder-focused accelerator.

Bangalore, 11th January 2024: ‘Atmanirbharta’ in defence took wing today with Adani Defence & Aerospace unveiling and handing over its indigenously manufactured Drishti 10 Starliner Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to the Indian Navy. Drishti 10 Starliner is an advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform with 36 hours of endurance and 450 kg payload capacity.

The only all-weather military platform with NATO’s STANAG 4671 (standardized agreement 4671) certification for the UAV system’s airworthiness, it is cleared to fly in both segregated and unsegregated airspace. The UAV will now be taken from Hyderabad to Porbandar to be inducted into naval maritime operations.

The flag-off ceremony was led by chief guest Admiral R Hari Kumar (PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC), Chief of the Naval Staff, who lauded Adani’s efforts in aligning its roadmap to the Navy’s requirements and establishing an ecosystem of partners and capabilities to enable ‘Atmanirbharta’ in defence and security. He said, “This is a momentous occasion and a transformative step in India’s quest for self-reliance in ISR technology and maritime supremacy. Drishti 10’s integration will enhance our naval capabilities, strengthening our preparedness in the ever-evolving maritime surveillance and reconnaissance.”

Honourable Minister of Industries & Commerce, IT, Electronics and Legislative Affairs of Telangana Mr D. Sridhar Babu congratulated the Adani Defence & Aerospace team for setting up a vibrant ecosystem for unmanned systems. He said, “Adani Aerospace Park in Hyderabad is a world class facility with focus on innovation and indigenization, a testament to Indian ingenuity. can only say that we have taken all the right steps towards achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing and with initiatives taken by companies like Adani Defence, the vision laid out by the Hon’ble Prime Minister shall be achieved in its complete spirit.”

The vision of Adani Group Chairman Mr Gautam Adani is to create a legacy by supporting the goal of making India scientifically, industrially, and economically an advanced and self-reliant nation. He sees an opportunity not just to make a humble contribution to the armed forces but also support India in claiming its rightful place as a technology leader.

Jeet Adani, VP, Adani Enterprises, said, “Recent geopolitical events have reinforced the convergence of physical, informational, and cognitive tactics underpinned by intelligence, information processing capabilities, and use of unmanned and cyber systems for dissemination of information and disinformation. Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms across land, air and naval borders are a key priority for Adani to serve the armed forces and place India on the global map for exports. We are proud to be able to serve the Indian Navy.”

Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO of Adani Defence & Aerospace, said, “The handover of Drishti 10 Starliner UAV is a watershed moment in our journey towards self-sufficiency and indigenisation of advanced technologies. Our on-time delivery to the Navy is a testament to our robust quality management processes and excellent support from our partners, who worked diligently over the last 10 months from contract to delivery.”

Adani Aerospace Park is the country’s first final assembly line in the private sector for military grade unmanned systems, tactical and loitering drones, seamlessly integrated with carbon aerostructures manufacturing unit, electronics and avionics unit, and EO IR (electro optical/infra-red) payloads, thus contributing to more than 70% indigenisation.

Pune, 11th January 2024: The World’s first-ever franchise-based Supercross league, the CEAT ISRL, successfully conducted its Mega Rider Auction for Season One at the prestigious JW Marriott in Pune yesterday, marking a significant milestone in ISRL’s journey. The CEAT Indian Supercross Racing League witnessed a total of 104 riders, including 73 international racers and 31 Indian riders. Each team was allowed up to 2 riders per category, with a maximum of 48 slots available. The cumulative auction kitty for Season One reached a monumental INR 6 Cr, underscoring the league’s commitment to excellence.

In a riveting auction that unfolded among the six teams, the fiercely competitive 85 cc junior class ignited excitement as Bhairav C Gowda’s standout performance earned him the highest bid, underlining his potential as a rising star. The power-packed 450 cc international category witnessed Thomas Ramette securing the highest bid. Meanwhile, breaking barriers in the sport, Aleena Mansur Shaikh and Nithila Das from the 85cc junior class emerged as two female riders called up by teams, emphasizing the growing influence of women in this high-octane world of Supercross. Remarkable stories continued to unfold with Ikshan Shanbhag and Shlok Ghorpade securing the highest bids for Indian riders during the auction. Adding to the intrigue, Sri Lanka’s Nathan Alexander Gunawardena secured the highest bid of the auction which comes from the 250cc India-Asia Mix category, setting a record for Season One. The auction was marked by enthusiasm among bidders eager to secure Indian talent, adding a dynamic element to the competition.

Mr. Veer Patel, Director & Co-Founder of the CEAT ISRL, expressed his excitement about the auction’s success: “The rider auction symbolizes more than just the acquisition of talent; it’s a poignant moment in the evolution of motorsport. It’s a testament to the spirit of competition, commitment to transparency and fairness, the pursuit of excellence, and the unity of a community driven by the love for off-road racing. This electrifying start sets the stage for an inaugural season that will not only redefine Supercross but also leave an indelible mark on the global motorsport landscape.”

Among the roster of esteemed riders, the league proudly presents some of the most decorated names in Supercross. Notably, Matt Moss, a 9-time Australian MX and SX Champion; 4X Italian Supercross Champion Lorenzo Camporese ; 4X South Africa Champion Anthony Raynard; 2X European/French vice champion Thomas Ramette; Germany’s MXGP Racer Nico Koch; 3X India National champion Rugved Barguje, 2X Indonesia champion Ananda Rigi Aditya.

As the countdown to Season One begins, the CEAT ISRL is set to host an impressive line-up of international champions and rising Indian stars across four exhilarating categories, featuring the 450cc international riders, 250cc international riders, 250cc India-Asia mix, and the super competitive 85cc junior class

CEAT ISRL races are set to captivate audiences across three vibrant cities, promising a blend of fanfare, glamour, and high-octane racing excitement. These events will transcend the traditional racing experience, transforming into star-studded nights filled with top-notch entertainment and electrifying music. The league’s commitment to creating an immersive and unforgettable atmosphere ensures that each race becomes a celebration of both motorsport excellence and a lively entertainment spectacle.

Chennai,11th January 2024 Çelebi India, a global leader in ground handling services, is pleased to announce its collaboration with British Airways, one of the world’s premier legacy carriers, to provide top-notch ground handling services at Chennai International Airport. This partnership marks a significant milestone for Çelebi as it expands its presence in the country with exceptional services in the aviation industry.

British Airways, renowned for its exceptional service and unwavering commitment to safety standards, has chosen Çelebi India as its ground-handling service provider in Chennai. This strategic alliance signifies the trust and confidence British Airways places in Çelebi’s expertise from 65 years of providing ground handling services to some of the world’s biggest airlines.

Tauseef Khan, CEO, Çelebi Ground Handling – India, said, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with British Airways as the chosen ground handling service provider at Chennai Airport. This collaboration is a significant milestone, underscoring Çelebi’s commitment to delivering top-tier services and contributing to the growth of India’s aviation industry. As we extend our support to British Airways, we remain dedicated to providing seamless and sustainable ground handling solutions, further solidifying our position as a trusted partner in the aviation landscape.”

This collaboration with British Airways is part of Çelebi India’s expansion strategy, adding to its operations at major airports, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Goa, Hyderabad, Cochin, Ahmedabad, and Kannur.

Aparna Malhotra – Regional Airport Manager – India and Maldives for British Airways said : “This alliance represents the trust and confidence that British Airways has in Çelebi’s expertise. British Airways is known for its exceptional service and unwavering commitment to safety standards. We look forward to dedicated, seamless and sustainable ground handling solutions, further solidifying our unyielding loyalty to exceptional service to our passengers and unwavering commitment to safety standards of the industry.”

Çelebi India, operating in nine major airports across the country, has a rich history of providing seamless ground handling services. From ensuring a smooth passenger experience in the terminal to meticulous aircraft preparation, baggage processing, and timely pushback, Çelebi has consistently demonstrated excellence. With over 750 employees hired by the end of the year, the company ensures airlines and passengers receive unparalleled, on-time service.

Airlines such as US Bangla Airlines, SCOOT, Air Asia Indonesia, Cathay Pacific, and YTO Cargo have also recognized and chosen Çelebi as their trusted ground-handling partner at Chennai airport, further highlighting the company’s commitment to excellence.

Çelebi India is expanding its footprint and leading the way in sustainability within the Indian ground-handling industry. The company is dedicated to helping the aviation sector achieve carbon neutrality through eco-friendly initiatives. These include 100% electric, air-conditioned tarmac coaches, electric baggage and cargo towing tugs, taxi-bots, and bridge-mounted equipment services.

New Delhi, 11th January 2024: Experian, the world’s leading global information services company specializing in decisions, data analytics, and technology has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of Manish Jain as its new Country Managing Director for Experian in India. With a proven track record in driving business growth, fostering innovation, and leveraging technology, Manish brings a wealth of experience to lead Experian’s operations in the dynamic and evolving Indian market.

Manish Jain, a seasoned professional with an illustrious career spanning over two and half decades in financial services and technology, seamlessly aligns with Experian’s commitment to empowering businesses and consumers with data-driven insights. Before joining Experian, Manish led transformative initiatives in global organizations, ensuring sustainable business expansion. With an exceptional ability to navigate complex markets and a keen understanding of industry trends, Manish is poised to drive Experian’s continued growth in India.

As the former Co-Founder and CEO of Accelerate, Manish advised organizations on their growth strategies and implemented large-scale plans in the banking industry for the faster realization of their revenue goals. Before Accelerate, he held leadership roles in the credit bureau industry for over 12 years, driving growth and earning recognition as a thought leader in the industry.

Commenting on Manish’s appointment, Malin Holmberg, CEO, APAC, and EMEA at Experian said, “We are thrilled to welcome Manish Jain to augment Experian’s operations in India. We are confident that under his guidance, Experian will enhance its ability to provide market-leading solutions to our clients. His passion for leveraging technology to address business challenges aligns perfectly with Experian’s mission to harness the power of data to drive positive outcomes and transform lives.”

“I am excited to join Experian and honoured with the prospects of partnering with the industry in shaping India’s credit eco-system, enabling individuals, businesses, and country’s aspirations. I look forward to leading the talented team at Experian to drive meaningful impact for our clients and the community at large,” said Manish Jain on his appointment.

As the Country Managing Director, Manish will lead Experian’s strategic initiatives, drive business growth, and cultivate strong partnerships with clients and stakeholders. His role will be instrumental in shaping Experian’s future in India, playing a crucial role in facilitating financial inclusion and empowering businesses and individuals.

New Delhi, 11th January 2024: IndiaSoft 2024 and India Electronics Expo Show organized by the Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) along with other co-located ICT events, will bring together over 1500 tech exhibitors and 600 plus foreign delegates. The event, which is fast emerging as a top-rated global ICT power show, will be held on 17-19 January 2024, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

“The combined ICT show reflects solid strides India is making in the ICT sector and unveils India’s commitment and determination to move in the technology value chain and to emerge as a technology hub and a leader in innovation and R&D as laid out by the top political leadership,” says Sandeep Narula, Chairman, ESC.

The three-day event, where IndiaSoft and the India Electronics Expo play an anchor role is expected to be visited by over 50,000 technology honchos, top company executives, senior government officials, diplomats, academia, and businessmen cutting across continents. Some of the cutting-edge technologies on display will be Artificial Intelligence, e-governance, blockchain, data mining, drone technology, automation equipment, chip technology, and robotics, apart from an assortment of traditional technologies to suit the requirements of visiting delegates from the developing world such as Africa, Latin America, South East Asia, SAARC, etc.

“Our brands and products that we display have over the years transformed radically informed by the technology landscape to give incremental advantages to people who shop for technologies;” says, Mr. Gurmeet Singh, Executive Director, ESC, adding that since its inception IndiaSoft in 2000 and later the Electronic Hardware Show tried to capture the changing landscape of ICT technology powered by Indian ingenuity, innovation, and disruption.

Both IndiaSoft and the India Electronics Expo have a distinct focus on micro, small, and medium enterprises and startups since the ESC is the rallying point for helping such enterprises to have strong footprints on the global market. Through its strong and increasing Pan-India membership in the software and hardware industry, ESC motivates the industry to make forays into embedded technologies by combining software and hardware skills to capture the ever-expanding global markets for chips, internet products, AI-based algorithms, gaming, mobile technologies, machine language, and cloud computing. Through its well-crafted conferences curated, among others, by international experts, ESC tries to upgrade the knowledge base of the participating exhibitors and delegates.

The ESC-organized tech shows will have several parallel events, which are keenly participated by international buyers and Indian exhibitors. Convergence India Expo, India’s largest Tech and Infra show, is taking place concurrently to enhance the takeaways of the foreign and Indian delegates.

IndiaSoft and the Electronic Show have been Supported by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India since its inception. Indian states such as Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir are partnering with ESC at INDIASOFT 2024.

11th December 2023: Moneycontrol, India’s leading financial news and investment platform, has collaborated with Gap Up by Rigi, an innovative platform specializing in investor education and skill enhancement. This groundbreaking partnership introduces a revolutionary offering to our audience, providing curated advisory from SEBI-registered experts on stock market intricacies and trading strategies.

As the financial landscape becomes more intricate, this collaboration aims to bridge the knowledge gap for both new and seasoned investors and traders, establishing Gap Up by Rigi as a trusted market insight partner. This innovative platform is accessible through both the Moneycontrol website and app, providing a diverse range of topics, including options trading, intraday and positional trading, multi-bagger investing, and more.

For individuals seeking trading advisory from SEBI-registered analysts, Gap Up by Rigi becomes a one-stop shop, offering expertise from renowned market veterans with a wealth of experience of three decades on Dalal Street. The platform includes daily equity futures and options calls and real-time updates on crucial events during market hours, encouraging traders to make informed decisions.

Swapnil Saurav, co-founder of Rigi, expresses his enthusiasm: “The establishment of Gap Up is driven by Rigi’s ongoing commitment to empower creators. Our partnership with Moneycontrol allows us to expand our outreach to a wider audience, assisting them in making informed decisions and formulating strong trading strategies.”

Manoj Nagpal, Business Head at Moneycontrol, shared his thoughts on the collaboration, saying, “The collaboration between Moneycontrol and Gap Up by Rigi marks a significant milestone in the realm of financial education. It combines the expertise of both platforms to empower investors and traders with the knowledge needed to navigate the dynamic world of stock investing. Moneycontrol has always been committed to empowering its users with information and actionable knowledge. Partnering with Gap Up by Rigi aligns perfectly with its vision to provide a comprehensive suite of learning tools for its diverse user base.”

With this collaboration, Moneycontrol and Gap Up by Rigi are setting new benchmarks in financial education and user empowerment, ensuring that investors and traders are well-equipped to navigate the dynamic and often challenging world of stock investing.

Hyderabad/Gurgaon, 11th January 2024: Cogoport, a leading name in the logistics and freight management industry, has announced the successful conclusion of its first batch of the Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Global Logistics and Freight Management. This achievement is a testament to Cogoport’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting excellence in the continually evolving realm of logistics.

The graduating batch has completed a comprehensive program that positions them for success in the global logistics landscape. These graduates will seamlessly integrate into various departments within Cogoport, contributing their acquired skills and knowledge to further elevate the company’s standing in the industry.

In collaboration with the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Amritsar, the Post-Graduate Certificate Program represents a pioneering initiative within the international logistics and global supply chain sector. Developed and executed by industry experts and renowned educators, this program provides participants with a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, offering insights into the complexities of managing freight globally.

Congratulating the first batch on the successful completion of the program, Hrishikesh Kulkarni, Chief Operation Officer at Cogoport stated: “We are thrilled with the successful culmination of our inaugural Post-Graduate Certificate Program. This program underscores our commitment to nurturing talent and equipping professionals with the skills needed to excel in the dynamic world of global logistics. We look forward to these skilled individuals making an impact in the industry.”

Professor Harpreet Kaur, Associate Professor, IIM Amritsar, said: “Armed with a profound understanding of supply chain and logistics, these graduates are well-prepared to make significant contributions to the field. As they embark on their professional journeys, we wish them continued success and growth in their careers.”

With the ongoing expansion and evolution of the logistics and freight management industry, Cogoport maintains its commitment to providing educational avenues that empower individuals to excel in this dynamic sector. Future cohorts of the Post-Graduate Certificate Program are already in development, reflecting Cogoport’s dedication to fostering the growth of a greater number of professionals in global logistics.

Bengaluru – 11th January 2024: Flipkart, India’s homegrown e-commerce marketplace, has strengthened its position as the one-stop destination for every shopping occasion, including weddings, for millions of consumers nationwide. Kicking off the new year on a high and celebrating the ongoing wedding spirit, the latest ‘Mauka jo bhi ho, bas Flipkart karo’ campaign aims at connecting with customers as they look to improve their style and gifting game. This message has been brought to life in two ad films showcasing different wedding rituals celebrated across India, featuring brand ambassador and beloved Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt. The campaign bolsters Flipkart’s commitment to empowering every Indian’s shopping dream by delivering value while fulfilling every nuanced need – from everyday essentials and the latest gadgets to wedding fashion wishlists.

The film features a well-dressed couple as protagonists who arrive at a wedding, only to bring shock and awe to everyone present with unexpected and thoughtful gifts – a smartphone and television to the couple. Through Alia Bhatt’s interjections and quirky engagement, Flipkart is revealed to be the reason behind their dapper look and gift selection – truly a one-stop shop for everything from fashion to electronics. This makes these wedding guests the star of the wedding, impressing everyone around them, especially Alia. The ad films close with the bride, groom and all the attendees reveling in the celebration with a ‘Mauka jo bhi ho, bas Flipkart karo’ jingle. From both these films, one message is absolutely clear – Flipkart is one of the chosen destinations for any shopping need for anyone!

Speaking about the new campaign, Pratik Arun Shetty, Senior Director – Marketing, Flipkart, said, “At Flipkart, our focus has always been on enhancing the shopping journey for every Indian. Our latest campaign, ‘Mauka jo bhi ho, bas Flipkart karo,’ embodies this ethos. The ad films featuring Alia Bhatt spotlights Flipkart as the ultimate shopping destination for all your needs. We are thrilled to start the new year by celebrating Flipkart’s role in empowering shoppers to shine during every special occasion with perfect outfits and thoughtful gifts. With this, we invite everyone to discover the convenience and delight of shopping on Flipkart for any event.”

Mayuresh Dubhashi, Group Executive Creative Director, Leo Burnett said, “Sure, weddings are all about the bride and groom, but that doesn’t mean the attendees can’t leave a lasting impression here and there. Our campaign explores the modern day definition of putting your best foot forward at occasions like weddings, whether it be through a style statement or through the perfect wedding gift. The film featuring Alia Bhatt, really exemplifies the joy and ease of discovering fantastic deals and latest products on Flipkart, making it the first choice for every occasion”

Conceptualized by Leo Burnett, Flipkart has devised a 360-degree campaign with a judicious mix of channels to reach its dynamic set of consumers in multiple languages across demographics.

Credits:

CEO-Leo Burnett South Asia: Amitesh Rao

Chief Creative Officer, Publicis Groupe South Asia, and Chairman: Rajdeepak Das

Group Executive Creative Director: Mayuresh Dubhashi

Executive Director: Abhimanyu Khedkar

Associate Vice President: Shailee Mehta

Brand Strategy Director: Vrudhi Doshi

Creative Directors: Reya Reji, Zeeshan Shaikh

Copywriters: Savannah Patel, Dia Gosai, Akshay Panchal

Art Director: Viraj Rane

Account Management: Ryan Carlo, Amisha Piplani

Production House: Prodigious

Managing Partner: Varun Shah

Director: Abhishek Verman

Executive Producer: Akshay Multani

Producers: Amar Parekh, Kopal Gupta

Brace yourselves for a Lohri brunch that transcends the ordinary—it’s a vibrant carnival of flavors and festivities at Conrad Pune’s Coriander Kitchen that will leave you grinning from ear to ear! Our celebration isn’t just a meal; it’s an explosion of joy, color, and tradition that promises to make this Lohri truly unforgettable.

Step into a world of festive enchantment as Coriander Kitchen transforms into a lively haven of celebration. The air will be filled with the beats of joyous music, and every corner will be adorned with the vibrant hues of Lohri decorations. It’s not just a brunch; it’s a visual and culinary delight that captures the very essence of this special season in the heart of Conrad Pune.

Dive into a gastronomic adventure with our specially curated feast at Coriander Kitchen. From traditional delights that pay homage to age-old recipes to innovative culinary creations that push the boundaries, every bite is a celebration of flavors that will tickle your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

And what’s a celebration without a bit of traditional fun? Participate in lively Lohri rituals at Conrad Pune’s Coriander Kitchen that add a touch of authenticity and charm to the festivities. Share laughter, stories, and the sheer joy of togetherness with your family and friends, creating memories that will warm your heart long after the celebration ends.

This isn’t just a brunch; it’s a celebration of life, love, and the vibrant spirit of Lohri at Conrad Pune’s Coriander Kitchen. Reserve your spot now because you don’t want to miss out on the most festive event of the season. Let’s make this Lohri a riot of joy, laughter, and delicious moments together!