Archives January 2024

New Delhi, 30th January 2024: With the aim of upgrading and refining the realm of politics for better and on-time action, a Kolkata-based P3 approach has been established and put at the centre of Indian political advisory organisations. The current emphasis has been laid on advising and delivering proper strategies to several MLAs, aspiring politicians, constitutional heads, and Members of Parliament in order to help them secure long-term, reliable, and sustainable positions.

A political strategic advisory organisation known as P3: People, Policy, and Politics was founded in Kolkata two years ago. The model aims to develop future leaders and strong political leadership. It operates with a 360° full political solutioning model for both individual politicians and parties throughout the year and during election season. This is what gives this strategic model a new perspective and does away with the political advisory organisations’ typical ideology, which is implemented solely during election season.

This has created a digitally connected virtual spectrum of over 140 scholars in seven different countries. These scholars work together on an as-and-when basis, contributing expertise in political strategy, political policymaking, and political image engineering. Political researchers, social media analysts, and political scholars from the country’s top research institutions—JU, JNU, BHU, and ISI—make up their core team. Throughout the whole electoral cycle, P3 assists candidates, legislators, MLAs, and aspiring leaders in forging durable positions within their parties and territories.

Adding to the vision, Mr. Subhashish Banerjee, the founder of P3 said, “It is very important to understand political science, but we believe it is even more important to understand the science of politics.” A politician’s personal development is the most crucial element in the dynamics of political strategy in India, according to P3, even though it is party-based. The organisation’s remarkable 100% success record in election management since its inception serves as a testament to its accomplishments. P3’s accomplishments go so far as to turn people with no political experience into effective MLAs, demonstrating the organisation’s mastery of the subtleties of the science of politics.

Political advisory organisations are organisations that offer strategic advice and knowledge in a range of political strategy, public relations, communication, and policy development areas to people, political organisations, or governmental bodies in the fields of politics and government. Advisory firms aim to improve their clients’ visibility and credibility by developing branding and image-building strategies. This Kolkata-based P3 approach helps its seekers successfully navigate the complicated landscape of politics, elections, and governance while operating in the same dimension with its enhanced strategic vision.

Bhubaneswar, 30th December 2024– Startup Odisha, an initiative of the MSME Department, The government of Odisha is all set to celebrate the grand event STARTUP UTSAVV 2024, which is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the state’s spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. The event, scheduled for January 31st, 2024, aims to be a spectacular event marked by awards, felicitations, and the signing of significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) with industry leaders such as ICAI, NIF, ISBA, and NRDC. The event also consists of “Ask Me Anything” Session, a Session on Blockchain Ecosystem of India, Masterclass on Design Thinking, Masterclass on Role of Academic Institution & Incubators, Session on Innovation, Technology, and Intellectual Property Institutional Support for Entrepreneurship and S Success Stories by Startup of Odisha.
The event is likely to witness the presence of eminent dignitaries such as Shri Pratap Keshari Deb, Hon’ble Minister, Dept. of Industry, Energy, and MSME, Shri Subroto Bagchi, Chief Advisor Govt.

 Odisha (Institutional Capacity Building), Shri Pradeep Kumar Jena, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Odisha, Dr. Omkar Rai, Executive Chairman, Startup Odisha as well as Smt. Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretary cum Development Commissioner, Govt. of Odisha and Shri Saswata Mishra, Principal Secretary, MSME, Govt of Odisha. The dignitaries will address the audience and share insights on the state’s commitment to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.

 Highlighting the achievements of the Incubator of the Year, Supportive Incubator of the Year, and Emerging Incubator of the Year, as well as commending successful incubators, stands as a pivotal focus of STARTUP UTSAVV 2024. The celebration extends to acknowledging externally funded startups, recognizing top innovators from Odisha Startup Yatra and Odisha Startup Xpress, and rewarding the top ten innovators from each program. Adding an exciting dimension to the already dynamic program, the event will witness the launch of Startup Yatra Booklets and Brochures. Additionally, it will shine a spotlight on student-led enterprises, women-led startups, and showcase. The outstanding achievements of 122 Startup Odisha Grantees from 2022-23 and 51 Startup Odisha Grantees from 2023-24.

 Moreover, the event will felicitate the top 50 innovators from both Startup Yatra and Xpress. Notably, both Startup Yatra -2023 and Startup Xpress -2023 were inaugurated by the hon’ble Chief minister on September 11, 2023. Covering over 200 colleges and 60 schools, these initiatives garnered a total participation of over 36,535 students, surpassing the initial target of 25,000 students. The success of Startup Yatra and Xpress is underscored by the collection of over 4,436 ideas, far surpassing the target of 3,500 ideas. Van Camps and boot camps were conducted at colleges and schools across Odisha as part of Yatra and Xpress.

Bengaluru, 30th  January 2024: LG Electronics, India’s leading consumer durable brand, announced that it has been Certified as a Great Place To Work® in India. This Certification truly highlights the company’s unwavering commitment to cultivating a positive and trustworthy workplace.

The Great Place To Work Certification™ is a prestigious recognition given to organizations that excel in creating an outstanding work environment for their employees. LG Electronics India achieved this by completing a thorough two-step process, which included Great Place To Work Trust Index™ Employee Survey, known worldwide as the leading way to understand how employees view their workplace and a rigorous culture audit, meeting the high standards set by the global authority on workplace culture.

Commenting on the same, Mr. Hong Ju Jeon- MD LG Electronics India said, “We are delighted to receive the Great Place To Work Certification, affirming our commitment to fostering an environment where our employees thrive both personally and professionally. This Certification reflects our ongoing efforts to prioritize our commitment towards employee-focused initiatives, ensuring a continued endeavors on fostering a positive workplace culture.”

Mr. Jwanam Kim- Expat HR Head, LG Electronics India remarked “The key focus has been Family engagement programs, which respect not only employee but also their families and community.” He further said, “Our aim is clear – to make LG Electronics the most loved brand in India and to achieve the same we will persistently strive towards enhancing employee satisfaction and making meaningful contributions to the Indian society.”

LG Electronics India is committed to building a workplace that attracts top talent, helping it maintain a strong position as one of the global leaders in the consumer durable industry.

30th January 2024: Mia by Tanishq, one of India’s most fashionable jewellery brand kicks off the New Year with an enticing offer. Mia is running ‘Buy More Save More’ offer with up to 20%* off on all Mia’s diamond product purchases. Get your hands on the best of offers and shine with elegance. Unlock exclusive discounts ranging from 3% to 20%, linked to the number products purchases.

Furthermore, for bill values surpassing Rs.75,000customers can enjoy a flat 20% discount. The offer is valid till 26^th February 2024 ondiamond products in all Mia by Tanishq retail outlets and online channels.

As the new year sets the tone for celebration and love, it’s the perfect moment to stock up on unique & stylish jewellery for your cherished moments. Whether it’s your best friend’s birthday, a surprise for your wife or girlfriend, or a heartfelt wedding present, #KahoKuchSpecial on each occasion with gifts from Mia by Tanishq. Whether you fancy minimalistic designs that complement any style or bold pieces that make a statement, Mia has something that resonates with your taste and that of your loved one.

With this special offer, indulge in stunning designs encompassing a variety of assortments like studs, finger rings, bracelets, earrings, ear cuffs, necklace and pendants. The range showcases elegant pieces with sparkling diamonds set in dazzling gold jewellery. From New Year parties to anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, cocktail evenings, and birthdays, make every moment special with Mia.

This season, let your gifts be accompanied by smiles, warm hugs, and an abundance of love, all wrapped up in Mia by Tanishq’s elegant jewellery pieces with Mia’s buy more save more offer.

Bengaluru, 30th January 2024. Nestled in the heart of Bangalore, AA Academy pulsates with a passion for igniting young minds. Founded by the visionary Ms. AlliRani Agatheeswaran, this institution has carved a unique niche in the world of education, pioneering a transformative approach to abacus and mental arithmetic. Today, we embark on a journey to unlock the secrets of AA Academy’s success, exploring its inspiring origin, innovative pedagogy, and global impact.

Rooted in Vision:

The story of AA Academy is woven with the unwavering determination of Ms. AlliRani. Initially supporting her husband’s business, fate had a different path in store. The arrival of UCMAS, a Malaysian abacus academy, in 1998 sparked a fire within her. Recognizing the power of abacus, she acquired the franchise and established her first academy in Chennai, paving the way for AA Academy’s incredible journey.

In 2000, Bangalore witnessed the birth of the first AA Academy, becoming the region’s pioneer in abacus training. Ms. AlliRani’s vision, however, transcended conventional education. She dreamt of introducing a transformative program that would not only empower young minds with mathematical prowess but also activate their “Brain Power.” Through this unique initiative, she aimed to cultivate essential skills like concentration, enhanced comprehension, improved listening, and a surge in self-confidence, transforming young minds into well-rounded individuals.

Holistic Growth at its Core:

AA Academy caters to children aged 4-15, acknowledging the critical years of development. Its holistic approach transcends academic rigidity, nurturing an environment where mental development flourishes in harmony with personal growth. This commitment is evident in every facet of the academy’s philosophy.

 Pioneering Pedagogy:

 The heart of AA Academy’s pedagogy lies in its groundbreaking abacus and mental arithmetic program. This innovative initiative goes beyond rote learning, weaving a tapestry of skills like mental calculations, concentration, and comprehension. It stands as a testament to the academy’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional education.

Empowering Through Knowledge:

The success of AA Academy rests on the shoulders of its dedicated and well-trained teachers. These educators act as catalysts, shaping the educational journey of each student and ensuring that the academy’s vision translates into impactful learning experiences.

 A Spectrum of Courses:

 AA Academy offers a diverse array of courses, catering to the needs of every young learner. From the cornerstone Abacus Mental Arithmetic Course that unlocks mental potential to the Singapore Math program that fosters problem-solving skills, each course is meticulously designed to nurture holistic development.

Handwriting Course:

Recognizing the significance of overall skill development, AA Academy offers a Handwriting Course. This program focuses on honing clear, legible, and fluent handwriting, contributing to students’ holistic growth.

Spelling Bee:

Beyond numbers, AA Academy offers a Spelling Bee course that enriches vocabulary, promotes effective communication, and enhances linguistic dexterity, broadening the scope of education beyond traditional boundaries.

 Mindbrain Activation:

This unique course is designed to unlock the potential of the human brain, enhancing cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills. It complements the academy’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.

 Vedic Mathematics:

 AA Academy sets itself apart by introducing students to the rich heritage of Vedic Mathematics. This course equips them with an alternative and efficient approach to problem-solving, enriching their mathematical repertoire.

 Global Recognition:

 AA Academy’s impact extends beyond national borders, with students participating from diverse corners of the world. This international recognition is a testament to the academy’s commitment to providing quality education on a global scale.

 Blending Traditions and Trends:

 AA Academy seamlessly blends traditional techniques like abacus with modern methodologies like Singapore Math and Vedic Mathematics. This dynamic approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded and contemporary education, preparing them for the challenges of the modern world.

 Nurturing Future Leaders:

 The impact of AA Academy goes beyond academic achievements. Its holistic approach ensures that students not only excel in mathematical abilities but also develop essential life skills, critical thinking, and confidence to navigate the complexities of the future.

 Celebrating Young Minds:

 AA Academy’s commitment to student development is evident in its annual event, ‘Abacus Habba.’ This competitive platform provides students with a stage to showcase their talents, fostering healthy competition and celebrating the accomplishments of young minds.

 Adapting to Challenges:

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, leading to AA Academy’s temporary closure. However, the academy’s resilience shone through, as it bounced back, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to its students. The preference for offline teaching during the pandemic further reflects the institution’s dedication to creating a substantial impact on students’ lives.

Recognition of Excellence:

Certainly! Mrs. AlliRani Agatheeswaran’s recognition as the Best Trainer in multiple categories at the IIB Industry & Business Leadership Awards in 2023 signifies her outstanding contributions to education. The award acknowledges her excellence in training for ABACUS, VEDIC MATH, SINGAPORE MATH, MID BRAIN ACTIVATION, HANDWRITING, and SPELLING BEE.

Pune, 30th January 2024: In a strategic move poised to fortify its position in the dynamic Indian market, Siegwerk, a global leader in packaging and printing inks and coatings, is expanding its operations in India with the inauguration of a new state-of-the-art Colour Matching Centre in Pune.

With a total annual production capacity of 1,200 tons and an additional 1,350 tonnes of trading capacity, the new facility will cater to the expanding customer base of Siegwerk in Maharashtra. The center will assist the customers with desired and customized shades of inks at shorter notice and will also generate additional employment in Pune.

This new colour matching center is spread over a total area of 12,000 Sq.ft and is built with new age technologies in inks and coatings production and is manned by skilled professionals. The facility will enable Siegwerk to cut down delivery timelines to customers by over 24 hrs.

While inaugurating the new facility in Pune, Mr. Ajay Tayade, BU Head for Flexible Packaging, Siegwerk India said: “This strategic expansion aligns with Siegwerk’s vision of fostering stronger partnerships via localized and customized solutions. Siegwerk is continuously growing in India, and Pune, a burgeoning industrial hub, offers exciting potential. This new facility is a key move for Siegwerk opening new avenues for collaboration, innovation, and growth in the vibrant Indian printing industry. This new colour matching centre can be leveraged by our customers to achieve their business goals quicker, without compromising on quality.”

Mr. Ajit Singh, CFO and BU Head for Narrow Web, Siegwerk India adds – “This new facility showcases Siegwerk’s commitment to invest in the Indian growth story and to ensure that we are closer to our customers and also make it easier for our customers to do business with us. As trendsetters in product safety, we have also ensured that the facility is completely Toluene-free, Mineral oil free and Benzophenone free.”

Committed to fostering sustainability, Siegwerk embraces a circular approach to business, championing the principles of the Circular Economy to safeguard the environment. Siegwerk further integrates renewable energy and water recharge systems into its facilities pan-India. This dedication not only underscores Siegwerk’s environmental stewardship but also exemplifies its proactive engagement and community development in areas it operates.

With a major Centre of Excellence in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan and a strong customer base in all the states, Siegwerk has been operating in India since 2006. The company has a wide network of 9 Colour Matching Centres all over India. Siegwerk provides safe and sustainable inks and coatings for packaging and works closely with convertors and brands in industries like FMCG, Food and Beverage, Pharma, Tobacco, Print Media etc.

New Delhi, 30th January 2024: Unstop, the community engagement and hiring platform for students and graduates, is back with the 3rd edition of Walmart CodeHers hiring challenge. Set to be bigger and better than the last two editions, the CodeHers 2024 will be India’s biggest hiring challenge conducted exclusively for women, providing them a golden opportunity to land their dream job. In the past 2 editions, Walmart CodeHers has provided female coders a chance to showcase their skills and make their way into a Fortune #1 Company.

Open to all female undergraduate and postgraduate students across India’s engineering colleges, CodeHers 2024 has 3 levels that participants must succeed in to become the ultimate winners. Level 1 will comprise an MCQ challenge while Level 2 will be a Coding challenge where shortlisted participants will present logical coding solutions to two problem statements. Participants who clear both Levels 1 and 2 will then be shortlisted for the final level, which will involve a profile verification and an interview process.

The top 15 students from each graduating batch (2024 and 2025) will receive a cash prize of INR 30,000. But that’s not all. The top coders from the 2025 graduating batch will be offered direct summer internship opportunities at Walmart Global Tech India in Chennai or Bangalore with a monthly stipend of INR 1,00,000-1,10,000 lakh.

The top coders from the 2024 graduating batch will also be contacted for Pre Placement Interviews against relevant opportunities for Software roles at Walmart Global Tech India. For software engineers, the salary package ranges from INR 18-21 lakhs with an INR 2-3.5 lakh joining bonus and stock grants of up to INR 2.5 lakhs.

Ankit Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Unstop, shared his thoughts. “10 lakh+ females are enrolled in Engineering & Tech courses in India as per the AISHE report. Walmart CodeHers gives this talented cohort a great opportunity to showcase their skills. Building on the success of the last two editions, India’s premier hiring challenge for females, CodeHers 2024 aims to be bigger and better. Together with Walmart, we are committed to fostering diversity and empowering female talent in the tech industry.”

The deadline for registrations for the contest is 18th February 2024. For more details, you can visit Unstop’s official website  (https://unstop.com/competitions/codehers-2024-walmart-global-tech-india-868837).

Kolkata, 30th January 2024: Siddha Group, Eastern India’s leading real estate developer, launched a premium tower, ‘blù’, at Siddha Sky, one of the landmark projects in Kolkata.

Siddha Sky located off EM Bypass is considered among the top skyscrapers in Kolkata and boasts of unique architecture. It will feature Kolkata’s tallest rooftop skywalk with a host of amenities. The project has drawn tremendous appreciation from prospective buyers. The apartments housed in the existing three towers are almost sold out.

Recently, Siddha launched a premium tower named blù at Siddha Skygiving new hope for home-buyers who longed for but missed out owning an apartment at Siddha Sky. Besides, Kolkata’s tallest Rooftop Skywalk is taking shape in this property and will be completed by January 2024making ‘blù’ an even more coveted part of the project.

The highlights of the new project ‘blù’ are the exclusive access to Kolkata’s tallest Rooftop Skywalk, The new tower blù comprises of lavish 3.5, 4,4.5 BHK and duplex apartments . The apartments are fully vaastu compliant, 3 sides open with 3.3 meter floor to floor height, Triple height balconies with all apartments, with an exclusive lounge on terrace. With only three apartments on each floor residents of blù have access to the Rooftop Skywalk. The duplex option further enhances lifestyle choices, while the double-height ground lobby exudes grandeur.

Adding to the allure, the project encompasses an array of club highlights, providing residents with an indulgent lifestyle. From a swimming pool with a deck to a cinema hall, crèche, lounge, and a fully-equipped gymnasium, every aspect is meticulously crafted for recreation and relaxation. The extensive list of amenities includes a multipurpose hall, business center, games room, cafeteria, banquet hall, and more, catering to diverse preferences.

“We are happy to introduce our latest endeavor, ‘blù,’ a testament to Siddha Group’s commitment to innovation and excellence in real estate. ‘blù’ embodies sophistication, luxury, and a vision for the future. As we unveil this premium tower, we invite discerning homebuyers to experience a lifestyle of unparalleled elegance. Siddha Group takes pride in creating spaces that go beyond the ordinary, and ‘blù’ is the perfect example of our dedication to redefining urban living. We look forward to crafting not just homes, but an enduring legacy of architectural brilliance and customer satisfaction”, said Mr. Sanjay Jain, Managing Director, Siddha Group.

‘blù’ at Siddha Sky is designed by the Mumbai based renowned architect Mr. Abhay Bhonsale.

The Board of Directors of CSB Bank took on record the financial results for the quarter (Q3 FY 2024) and nine months ended 31.12.2023, which were subject to limited review in their meeting dated 29.01.2024.

Highlights

1. Profit After-tax: Bank registered a net profit of Rs 415Crs for the nine months ended 31.12.2023vis a vis a net profit of Rs 391 Crs for the corresponding period last year. Net profit improved by 6% on a YoY basis. Bank continued with its policy of maintaining accelerated loan provisioning during this quarter as well. Net profit for the quarter alone stood at Rs. 150Crs. The annualized RoA for the nine months ended 31.12.2023 is at 1.78%.
2. Operating Profit: The operating profit for the nine months period ended 31.12.2023 stood at Rs 552 Crs as against Rs 506 Crs for the corresponding previous period registering a growth of 9%. Operating profit of the bank for Q3 FY 2024 stood at Rs 196 Crs with a growth of 12% over the sequential quarter.
3. Net Interest Income (NII) for 9 months ended 31.12.2023 stood at Rs 1090 Crs posting an increase of 11% YoY. In Q3 FY 24, the NII stood at Rs 383 Crs with an increase of 11% over Q2 FY 24 and 9 % over Q3 FY 23.
4. Non-Interest Income for Q3 FY 2024 posted a growth of 39% over Q3 FY 2023. Other income for the nine months ended 31.12.2023 stood at Rs 388 Crs as against Rs 190 Crs for nine months ended 31.12.2022 with a whopping 104% increase.
5. Cost Income Ratio for Q3 FY 24 stood at 61.44% as against 64.09% for Q2 FY 24. Cost income ratio for the nine months ended 31.12.2023 was at 62.66% as against 56.98% as on 31.12.2022 consequent to the investments made in people, technology, distribution etc. keeping the long term growth prospects of the Bank in mind.
6. Healthy Asset Quality & Provisioning

The GNPA and NNPA have been checkmated and it has marginally come down sequentially over Sept 2023 / on year on year basis. PCR continues to be in excess of 90%

7. Robust Capital Structure – Capital Adequacy Ratio is at 22.99%, which is well above the regulatory requirement. Leverage ratio is at 8.97% as on 31.12.2023 much above the regulatory threshold ceilings.

8. Comfortable Liquidity Position – Liquidity Coverage Ratio as on 31.12.23 stood at a comfortable level of 123% whereas on a quarterly average basis the same was maintained at 113%for Q3.

9. Total Deposits grew by 21 % YoY. The CASA book grew from Rs 7126 Crs to Rs 7543 Crs YoY (Up by 6%). The CASA ratio stood at 27.58 % as on 31.12.2023.

10. Advances (Net) grew by 23% YoY from Rs 18457 Crsto Rs 22658 Crsas on 31.12.2023.

Performance Highlights:

CEO Speak:

Speaking about the performance Mr. Pralay Mondal, Managing Director & CEO said, “The last quarter gone by was reasonably stable for us. Our efforts have always been to grow 30 to 50% faster than the system. The liquidity conditions prevailed in the system did pose some challenges in funds management. We focused more on deposits this quarter and could register a growth of 21% on a YoY basis whereas the industry grew by 13%. On the advance front (net) we registered a growth of 23% vis a vis 16% industry (without merger). Gold, Retail ex gold and SME did well in the quarter with a YoY growth of 23%, 44% and 28% respectively. Effective fund management duly factoring the cost considerations helped us to maintain a NIM of above 5% for Q3 and the 9 months ended 31.12.23. All other key ratios like, CRAR, RoA, NPA ratios etc continue to be strong

SBS journey got the much needed booster when we kick started the CBS migration project in the bank. A detailed blue print has been prepared for the implementation and we are progressing there. Once the products/processes stabilizes post the new CBS roll out, our customer acquisition pace will go up significantly and will lay a stronger foundation for the scale phase. Our vision is to transform from a small bank to a mid-sized bank by FY 2030 and the entire team is working passionately for making this a reality.”

Mumbai, 30th January 2024: Sterlite Power, a global power transmission infrastructure developer and solutions provider, has received the prestigious Great Place to Work® Certification by the Great Place to Work® Institute, three years in a row. One of the most coveted ‘Employer-of-Choice’ recognitions in the industry, it reinforces the organisation’s standing as one of the leading energy employers in the country.

The Great Place to Work® Certification is awarded to organizations that deliver excellent employee experiences and demonstrate best-in-class people practices based on a rigorous assessment process. The assessment is based on the Great Place to Work® model, which evaluates a workplace based on its Trust Index© and Culture Audit© attributes. Based on the assessment by the Great Place to Work® Institute, Sterlite Power scored exceedingly well in areas related to building a purposeful and high-growth organizational culture.

“At Sterlite Power, our people are our greatest asset,” said Ruhie Pande, Group CHRO, Sterlite Power. “We are proud of building a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered with the opportunity to reach their full potential. Through its progressive ‘people first’ policies and practices, Sterlite Power works to continually improve employee experience and value.”

In 2023, Sterlite Power was recognised as India’s Top 100 Great Mid-Sized Workplaces surveyed by the GPTW Institute.  Sterlite Power’s inclusion in this esteemed group showcases the company’s commitment to fostering a positive, engaging, and supportive work culture.

GPTW is globally recognized as an authority in assessing workplace culture. The Institute works with businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in more than 60 countries and has spearheaded exceptional research on the characteristics of great workplaces for over three decades. In India, the institute partners with more than 1,100 organizations annually across over 22 industries to help them build High-Trust, High-Performance Cultures designed to deliver sustained business results.