Archives February 2024

Mumbai, 2nd February 2024: BharatPe Group, India’s leading name in the fintech ecosystem, has announced the appointment of Rohan Khara as the Chief Product Officer. In his new role, Rohan will be leading product development and innovation, designing of merchants and consumer products, and user research teams across the BharatPe Group of companies. Prior to joining BharatPe, Rohan was the Managing Director – at FairMoney India. Rohan will be reporting to Nalin Negi, Chief Financial Officer and interim CEO, of BharatPe.

Rohan is a renowned name in the startup world, having 17 years of rich experience across various facets of product management, design and innovation. A startup veteran, Rohan has spent the last 8 years building & scaling financial services products across fintech startups in 3 emerging markets – India, Indonesia and Nigeria. During his professional journey, he has led product roles across a range of startups, including MobiKwik and Quikr. Rohan has also been the Chief Product Officer (CPO) at FairMoney for Nigeria and India markets before he was elevated to MD for its India business. As CPO at FairMoney, Rohan launched the FairMoney digital bank in Nigeria & scaled it to 3m+ bank accounts with products like savings accounts, debit cards, airtime & bill payments, and instant bank transfers. He also built & scaled the entire Product function of the company across Paris, Latvia, Nigeria & India. Rohan has also been the Co-Founder of Gojek’s Financial Services Business Unit in Jakarta (Indonesia). At Gojek, he was responsible for setting up the entire team of product managers, designers and researchers across 6 cities and 4 countries (Jakarta, Bali, Singapore, Bangkok, Bangalore & Pune). He led the team which built PayLater from scratch, and scaled it to 2m+ users with very high retention and the highest NPS score across all Gojek consumer products. Rohan has completed his Master of Science, Management Science and Engineering from Stanford University.

Commenting on the appointment, Nalin Negi, CFO and interim CEO, BharatPe said, “The fintech industry is extremely competitive and will continue to thrive on agility and disruptive products that solve for various use cases. At BharatPe, we have stayed focussed on building products that are disruptive, easy to use, secure and find relevance amongst merchants as well as consumers. Rohan’s extensive experience will be instrumental in BharatPe’s product innovation play, in turn, catapulting our growth to the next level, as we continue with our journey to empower millions of merchants and customers. I would like to welcome Rohan to the leadership team. I am confident that Rohan’s in-depth understanding of financial services, accompanied with his strategic vision and entrepreneurial mindset, will help us build the best-in-class fintech products that will give us the differentiated edge.”

Rohan Khara, Chief Product Officer, BharatPe Group, added, “BharatPe is one of the few fintechs in the country that have stayed firm on their commitment to driving financial inclusion across the country. Right from their first disruptive product, the UPI QR with zero fees, BharatPe has been at the forefront of driving digital payments. I am excited to join the talented team and be a part of their mission to build for Bharat while continuing to push the financial inclusion charter. My focus as the CPO will not only be to build innovative products that drive immense value for our end users (merchants and consumers), but also balance innovation with fiscal prudence. We will continue to launch new products that cater to the requirements of our target segments, while driving business value by adding to the bottom line.”

Mumbai, 2nd February 2024 Honda’s esteemed group of companies in India, comprising Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI), Honda Power Pack Energy India (HEID), Honda Cars India Limited (HCIL)& HIPP (Honda India Power Products)is proudly participating in the first-everBharat Mobility Global Expo 2024ongoing from 1- 3 February 2024, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. This event, organized to showcase the latest developments in the mobility sector, serves as a platform for Honda to demonstrate its commitment to innovation & sustainability by showcasing cutting-edge technology.

The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 marks a historic moment for the Indian automotive industry, bringing together key stakeholders, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), industry leaders, and enthusiasts to explore the future of mobility. This event provides an invaluable platform for the brand Honda to showcase its unwavering commitment to sustainability and road safety, aligning with the company’s global vision to realize zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050. Honda also aims to realize carbon neutrality for all its products and corporate activities by 2050.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI)

At the heart of the Honda stalls HMSI’s first flex-fuel powered motorcycle developed specially for the Indian market.A testament to the company’s dedication to eco-friendly & sustainable mobility solutions,it aligns with the Indian government’s direction to explore alternate fuels while expanding the mobility eco-system. The pre-production model displayed here uses innovative “FlexTech” Technology, allowing riders to experience a benchmark product with reduced environmental impact by utilizing a blend of gasoline and ethanol.

The flex-fuel-powered motorcycle will be HMSI’s first FFV(Flex Fuel Vehicle). It will be powered by a 293.52cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine compliant with up to E85 fuel (85% ethanol & 15% gasoline). With more than a decade’s expertise in flex-fuel technology globally and over 7 million satisfied customers in Brazil, HMSI is well-equipped to make a seamless flex-fuel transition for the Indian two-wheeler market.
Honda Power Pack Energy India (HEID)

HEID showcases its new-age technology, including Honda Power Pack Exchanger e: and Honda Mobile Power Pack e:, at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024.

HEID is actively participating in the first-ever Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024, proudly presenting its mission to empower greener journeys and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) through innovative smart mobility solutions. This initiative aligned with the Indian government’s commitment to EV adoption, highlighting HEID’s dedication to contributing towards a more sustainable and connected future.

During the expo, HEID will showcase Honda e:Swap, an innovative battery-sharing technology tailored for electric two and three-wheelers. Addressing the critical challenges faced by EVs – limited range, long charging times, and high battery costs – Honda e:Swap emerged as a groundbreaking solution to accelerate the penetration of electric vehicles in India. The service offers efficient and convenient battery swaps, reshaping the landscape of electric mobility.

Honda e:Swap has already established stations and is operational in Bengaluru (Karnataka). The company aims to extend its presence across other tier-1 locations in India in the coming fiscal year, ensuring widespread access to sustainable mobility solutions.

In addition to the battery-sharing service, HEID intends to work closely with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) interested in integrating Honda’s advanced battery technology into their vehicles. By providing necessary technical information for interface, HEID intends to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable transportation solutions.

Honda Cars India Limited (HCIL)

Honda Cars India is featuring its Honda City e:HEV and recently launched SUV, Honda Elevate, at the expo. The City e:HEV boasts a revolutionary self-charging, highly efficient two-motor strong hybrid system, delivering exhilarating performance while maintaining fuel efficiency. With three multi-mode drive powertrain options – EV Drive Mode, Hybrid Drive Mode, and Engine Drive Mode – the New City e:HEV underscores Honda’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge technologies to the country. Honda Elevate, the latest addition to the company’s lineup showcased at the expo, is the result of developing a product tailored to Indian customers’ requirements. Exclusively designed for the Indian market, this model considers the needs and preferences of customers.

Both showcased models come equipped with Honda’s advanced safety technology, “Honda Sensing.” This system uses a high-performance front camera with a wide-angle detection system to scan the road, alerting the driver and intervening when necessary to minimize accident risks. Signature safety features of Honda Sensing include Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Auto High-Beam. This aligns with the company’s global vision to realize zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050.

HIPP (Honda India Power Products)

Honda India Power Products Limited is showcasing its Li-ion Battery-powered Lawn and Garden range comprising of Robotic lawnmower, Handheld Grass trimmer, Hedge trimmer and Blower ideally suited for efficient and eco-friendly care.

Bio-fuel compatible advanced Fuel Injection (FI) equipped portable inverter generator model EU70is (5.5kVA) is on display and along with EU30is (3kVA) model is increasingly being used for Drone charging applications for fertilizer spraying in Agriculture and Horticulture besides others.

HIPP is also exhibiting its eco-friendly, bio-fuel compatible advanced 4 Stroke Honda Marine model BF20 that offers a clean, reliable, and durable mobility solution for sustainable & efficient use in Indian waterways and along the coastline for coast guard & tourism purposes.

HIPP has been the leader in the power products industry for over last 38 years and has been consistently introducing innovative and environment-friendly products to meet the evolving customer demands across various segments and strives to live up to its vision to “Empower People, To Do Better!”

New Delhi,2nd February 2024 – Get ready for an exciting February in the world of Defense Derby! RisingWings, a creative studio of KRAFTON, Inc., has rolled out a new update for the hit real-time PvP tower defense mobile game.

Introducing the Divine Blessing season and Florea

Meet Florea, the latest magic-type unit in this update, hailing from the spirit faction. This magic-type, single-distance dealer unit not only takes down monsters but also heals your castle with each defeat. Her unique ability, Sacrifice, allows you to heal a significant amount of castle HP when sold. Acquire Florea via the Shop of Blessings, Lucky Draw, Featured Summon, and Step Up Pack. Dive into the Derby Brawl – Florea Mirror Match, running until February 13 at 5:30 AM, to put her powers to the test and earn rewards.

Celestial Prayer

Mark your calendars for February 14, when Celestial Prayer, a new magic-type human faction unit, arrives. Celestial Prayer enhances the stats of nearby allies, making strategic positioning key. Her special ability, Divine Grace, boosts type synergy for adjacent units. Experience her strength in the Derby Brawl – Celestial Prayer Mirror Match from February 14 to February 28 at 5:30 AM.

Special Events – Gems, Crystals, and Valentine’s Fun

• Hot Time Event: Score big with Gems and Crystals based on your Derby Mode rankings. Up to 500 Gems on February 10 and a maximum of 300 Crystals on February 9 and February 12.
• Valentine’s Event (running from February 14 to February 28 at 5:30 AM): Complete missions, collect Sweet Hearts, and trade them for Legendary Unit summon tickets, the Dolce Amore Chocolate Shop Castle Skin, Gems, Crystals, Elixir, and Gold.

In a heartwarming collaboration between Medimix and the power of moment marketing, a viral video posted by Instagram creator Mangal, with 1,500 followers, captured the essence of innocence and laughter, garnering attention from thousands worldwide.

Mangal’s reel, shared in early January featured a charming prank he played on his niece. He offered her what seemed like a tasty chocolate bar, only to reveal it was actually a Medimix soap. Her adorable reaction, a mix of surprise and realization, became an internet sensation.

The video received 195,274 likes, 2,181 comments, and 287,000 shares, catching Medimix’s attention. This sparked a heartwarming series of events that spread joy and smiles.
Watch the video here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C1luy-rBQnt/?igsh=ZWxjNmk4bjNnZnIx

Medimix and Schbang seized the moment by engaging with Mangal’s reel, playfully offering to send chocolates to his niece. This gesture showcased their humor and commitment to spreading joy. They then reached out to Mangal directly to collaborate on a reaction video, which he eagerly accepted.

True to their word, Medimix swiftly dispatched a hamper filled with delectable chocolates and thoughtful goodies to Mangal’s niece. On receiving the hamper, Mangal took to social media (again) to share his gratitude with the team and his viewers!

In response, Team Medimix expressed their happiness in contributing to such a heartwarming moment. Their comment, “Aapke video ne lakhon ka din banaya, hope humare gift ne aapka din bana diya”, reflects their dedication to spreading happiness.

Anshul Khandelwal, Sr. Group Brand Solutions Manager, Schbang expressed, “These are the ‘moments’ we (literally) we live for. What’s better than ensuring that we can be enablers of spreading smiles through the magic of social media. Kudos to the teams for making this happen, right in time.”

Medimix continues to embrace moments of joy, reminding us that sometimes, the most delightful surprises come from unexpected places.

NOIDA, India,2nd February 2024 : HCLTech, a leading global technology company, has been recognized as a Leader in the IDC MarketScape for Worldwide Software Engineering Services 2023 Vendor Assessment (US51330523, November 2023) for its commitment to excellence and innovation in software engineering.

According to the report, HCLTech provides a comprehensive range of capabilities, including hardware, software, platform engineering, data engineering, digital products, AI and generative AI solutions and is recognized by clients for its commitment to delivering return on investments, effective talent turnover management, strategic use of automation and transparency related to performance indicators.

“HCLTech enables seamless adoption of software engineering initiatives, showcasing bespoke frameworks in key use cases to unlock inherent value for their clients. HCLTech’s commitment to customized frameworks helps clients gain confidence and accelerates adoption. The synergy between their software engineering services team and internal research, CoE teams, ecosystem partners and clients ensure a collaborative approach to identify and co-create solutions,” said Mukesh Dialani, Research Vice President, Digital Engineering and Operational Technology Services, IDC.

“Software engineering is an integral part of our growth strategy as we partner with G2000 companies helping them move to the platform economy and create new revenue streams powered by data monetization. Given our rich engineering heritage and our consistent strategic investments in digital engineering, GenAI and AI, we are uniquely positioned in this segment. HCLTech takes pride in consistently being recognized as a Leader in the Software Engineering space,” said Vijay Guntur, President, Engineering and R&D Services, HCLTech.

New Delhi, India —2nd February 2024 – Check Point® Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a leading AI-powered, cloud-delivered cybersecurity platform provider, announces the launch of Check Point Quantum Spark 1900 and 2000, the latest additions to its next-generation firewall series for small and medium business (SMBs). These advanced security gateways are specifically engineered to protect SMBs from ever-evolving cyber threats. The new Quantum Spark security gateways offer high-performance network security at scale with zero-touch provisioning, advanced cloud management, and automated threat management capabilities, making them ideal for medium-sized businesses.

In today’s digital age, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly challenged by cybersecurity threats. Despite their significant contribution to the global economy, these businesses often grapple with limited IT capabilities and budgets, leaving them exposed to advanced cyberattacks like malware, phishing, and ransomware. Although aware of these escalating risks and dedicating more funds to security, many SMBs remain inadequately protected, with only a fraction adopting enhanced security measures and training. To address these challenges, a growing number of SMBs are turning to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for comprehensive, tailored cybersecurity solutions. By 2025, MSPs are expected to represent 40% of SMB cybersecurity expenditures, highlighting their crucial role in safeguarding these businesses.

Shahar Divon, Global Head of MSSP and SMB at Check Point Software Technologies, emphasizes, “The increasing reliance on MSPs as primary market conduits is a response to the growing necessity for end-to-end management of intricate software stacks and the advancement of digital initiatives. At Check Point, our Quantum Spark next-generation firewalls are specifically designed to safeguard data and systems against cyber-attacks, ensuring secure and efficient access. These gateways not only promise secure expansion in user numbers, transaction volumes, and data but also aid in reducing costs while supporting remote workforces, encouraging cloud adoption, and enabling digital transformation.”

The full line of gateways allows supporting businesses ranging from one all the way to 1,000 employees. They provide SMBs with a powerful combination of AI-powered threat prevention, easy management, and scalability, particularly important as many SMBs struggle with limited cybersecurity resources and expertise. The introduction of these new products aims to empower SMBs to protect their operations effectively and with confidence, amidst the complexities of the current cyber threat environment.

Quantum Spark™ Gateway 1900 and 2000 users benefit from:

Accelerated Threat Prevention Performance: AI/ML powered security gateways for heightened defense against cyber threats, significantly boosting threat prevention by over 2x and showcasing an impressive 99.7% block rate against phishing, malware, DNS, and IoT attacks. Enhance network resilience, efficiency and flexibility with integrated switches and a dual power supply that eliminate the need for external switches and maximize operations with minimal downtime.Integrated Cloud Security Services & Network Connectivity: Revolutionary security software with top-tier reliability, seamless user experience, and augmented capabilities like IoT security, SD-WAN, and more.

Consolidated Cloud Management for MSPs: Advanced cloud management capabilities for MSPs, now featuring a network operational view that enables streamlined automation of threat management for customers. Our consolidated security operations have further streamlined management for MSPs serving SMBs, with a centralized hub for customer services, licenses, and proactive security monitoring made accessible through a unified dashboard.

“As cyber threats like phishing and ransomware increase, SMBs face more security challenges without the IT expertise and resources needed to defend themselves. Check Point’s new Quantum Spark 1900 and 2000 network security gateways provide SMBs with AI-Powered threat prevention, automated security for SD-WAN and IoT, and unified security management that is easy to deploy and use ”, said Pete Finalle Security Research Manager at IDC, “Given their limitations, many SMBs are turning to managed service providers (MSPs) for security solutions. Check Point empowers MSPs to support SMBs with comprehensive security, remote streamlined management and zero touch deployment, reducing the need for onsite IT staff.”

The Quantum Spark 1900 and 2000 series are available immediately. For full details and specifications of the six models in the Quantum Spark™ Gateway range, visit: https://www.checkpoint.com/quantum/next-generation-firewall/small-business-firewall/

Pune, 2nd February 2024 IIHM (International Institute of Hotel Management) Young Chef Olympiad 2024 successfully wrapped up its first round of the competition today at their campus in Pune. The competition saw aspiring students from across 10 countries competing against each other. Participants from Italy, France, Northern Ireland, Oman, South Africa, Spain, Wales, Slovenia and Azerbaijan participated at the IIHM Pune campus. The 10th IIHM Young Chef Olympiad 2024 (YCO 2024) is hosting student chefs from over 60 countries, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

These participants demonstrated their culinary skills for over 3 hours in front of a panel of the finest Chef Judges, composed of some of the best-known chefs and hospitality stalwarts from all over the globe. The students received an opportunity to showcase their skills in front of an esteemed panel of judges including Chef Sarah Hartnett, Executive Pastry Chef at Smart Group Ltd, Ireland; Chef Garth Stroebel, Executive Chef of the Mount Nelson Hotel, South Africa; Chef Mario Perera Executive Chef at the Dorchester Hotel, London; Gary Maclean, National Chef of Scotland, Food Ambassador, Author, Masterchef, UK; Chef Manjunath Mural, Indian Executive Chef of Michelin Star, Singapore and Chef Paul Jervis, HOD of Hospitality & Culinary Art Department Westminster Kingsway College, London.

The students were judged on two stages. Stage one included a skill test while stage two was all about the cooking test. In the skill test, the students were judged on their cutting and chopping techniques and in the cooking test they were evaluated on the taste of the dishes and presentation skills. The students were asked to present a dessert and 4 portions of a main course vegetarian dish suitable to be served at a brasserie-style restaurant.

Mr. Rupinder Singh Khurana, Director IIHM Pune & Executive Committee Member for YCO 2024, said, “I am grateful for the electrifying energy that filled the IIHM campus in Pune today. Witnessing the exceptional enthusiasm of all the students as they displayed their culinary talents before some of the industry’s finest culinarians was truly inspiring. The constant support extended to the participants by the jury members, country mentors and esteemed judges fills me with humility and gratitude. As the students bid farewell to Pune today, I eagerly anticipate the next stage of the competition unfolding in the enchanting city of Kolkata.”

Following Round 1, all the competitors and mentors will leave for the cultural city of Kolkata for the next stage of the competition. The leading 10 competitors from Round 1 will compete in the Grand Final; the next 10 competitors filling the 11th to 20th positions will compete for the Plate Trophy and the remaining competitors will take part in the YCO Dr. Suborno Bose Challenge.

The Grand Final’s Gold, Silver and Bronze Medallists; the Plate Trophy Winner; the YCO Dr. Suborno Bose Challenge Winner and all other award winners will be announced at the closing awards

ceremony on the evening of 4th February 2024. While the Gold winner will be awarded a prize money of US$ 5,000, the Silver winner will bag US$ 3,000 and the Bronze winner US$ 2,000.

By Mr. Ashish Tyibdewal, Country Director-India, Global Schools Foundation

After analyzing the Interim Union Budget 2024, it is evident that the government’s dedication to education and skill enhancement is praiseworthy. The National Education Policy (NEP) has brought about transformational reforms, emphasizing the importance of holistic education and skill development.

The emphasis on such development and growth aligns with the evolving needs of the 21st-century workforce. However, to truly propel our education system forward, we must prioritize the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in hybrid education and learning methods. This will not only enhance personalized learning experiences but also equip students with essential future-ready skills.

Also, while the budget addresses the expansion of vocational training, a reduction in GST taxes on educational resources and services would further incentivize investment in this critical sector. It is essential to create an enabling environment that encourages private sector participation and innovation in education. Undoubtedly, the budget lays a strong foundation for educational reform, but we must also focus on these crucial areas to ensure that our education system remains at the forefront of global innovation and excellence.

The Interim Union Education Budget 2024 overall reflected a comprehensive vision for education and skill development, and it is heartening to see the government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing the quality of education in India.

 Mr. Siddharth Chaturvedi, Executive VP,  AISECT Group, Chancellor– SGSU for your reference. It would be great if you could include the same in your upcoming budget story.

“In the aftermath of Budget 2024, India’s higher education landscape radiates with promise as 1.4 crore youth have been skillfully equipped and 54 lakh reskilled under the Skill India Mission. The establishment of 3,000 educational institutions, including 7 IITs, 16 IIITs, and 7 IIMs, underscores a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and innovation, while the significant enrollment of women, comprising 43% of STEM students, reflects substantial progress towards gender inclusivity.

Additionally, the government’s pledge to establish additional medical colleges and upgrade 14,500 schools through the PM Schools for Rising India initiative signals robust investment in education and innovation, ensuring that India’s youth are adeptly prepared to navigate future challenges. The National Education Policy 2020 heralds transformative reforms and initiatives like PM Schools for Rising India stand as testaments to delivering quality education and nurturing well-rounded individuals. The Skill India Mission’s success in upskilling and reskilling, combined with the growth of higher education institutions, illustrates India’s commitment to cultivating a capable and empowered population.”

Commenting on the Interim Budget 2023-24, Manish Mehan, CEO & MD, TK Elevator India says:

“Government’s announcement to build 2 crore new rural homes under PM Awas Yojana Grameen Scheme, setting up of an Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF) under the National Housing Bank for the creation of urban infrastructure, signals a robust push for real estate growth, extending its impact beyond metros and creating exciting opportunities in tier 2 and tier 3 cities. The transportation infrastructure development near metro stations will further foster urban mobility and unlock investment potential.”