Archives October 2024

Mumbai: Sanofi Consumer Healthcare India Limited (“SCHIL”) (BSE: 544250, NSE: SANOFICONR) today announced its successful listing on BSE Limited (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE). The milestone was marked with the ringing of the opening bell at BSE by Himanshu Bakshi, Managing Director, Sanofi Consumer Healthcare India Limited, signifying the listing of the company’s Equity Shares.

Ringing of the opening bell at BSE by Himanshu Bakshi, MD – Sanofi Consumer Healthcare India Limited, signifying the listing of the company’s Equity Shares.

Himanshu Bakshi, Managing Director, Sanofi Consumer Healthcare India Limited Commenting on this joyous occasion, he said, “India’s consumer healthcare market, has vast potential. SCHIL getting listed on BSE and NSE, marks a critical milestone for us; one that is further expected to strengthen our position and drive sustainable growth within the Indian market. By evaluating our business needs, capitalizing on emerging consumer trends in the healthcare space and encouraging a culture of digital innovations, we seek to address unmet consumer needs. For this, we aim to enhance our customer experience with our products.

Further, we remain committed to our mission, which is to make self-care as simple as it should be and empower our consumers to take control of their health. I am confident that our organisation’s consumer-first approach will drive our ambition to build the best ‘Fast Moving Consumer Healthcare’ (FMCH) organisation in and for the world.”

SCHIL has emerged as a distinct legal entity following its demerger from Sanofi India Limited. This demerger, executed under the Scheme of Arrangement, was sanctioned by the Mumbai bench of the National Company Law Tribunal and became effective on 1st June 2024. In alignment with Sanofi’s global strategy, SCHIL is now operating independently, with a dedicated focus on the Consumer Healthcare sector. SCHIL is committed to maintaining high standards of ethics, marketing practices, and business operations.

About Sanofi Consumer Healthcare India Limited (SCHIL): With an agile business model and strong brands, SCHIL is one of the leading players in India’s consumer healthcare market. Leveraging its global experience in consumer healthcare, Sanofi Consumer Healthcare India Limited (SCHIL) aims to enhance customer wellbeing through its portfolio of products which encompasses Allergy, Digestive Wellness, Pain Care, and Multivitamins and Herbal/Traditional Dietary Supplements. SCHIL’s key brands include Allegra®, DePURA®, Avil®, and Combiflam®. They are dedicated to building a healthier future for their customers by empowering people to take control of their health, through self-care and by addressing their everyday health concerns.

Hyderabad, October 08, 2024: Union Bank of India, one of the leading Public sector Banks of the country, celebrated Hindi Diwas in Y B Chavan auditorium, Nariman Point, Mumbai on 07th October 2024.

The ceremony was presided over by A. Manimekhalai, MD & CEO. Shri Sanjay Rudra, Executive Director, along with Chandra Mohan Minocha, Chief General Manager (HR) graced the occasion.

Speaking on this occasion, MD & CEO, A Manimekhalai, spoke about the innovative products and services offered by the bank and highlighted the importance of Hindi and local languages ​​in Customer Service. She also announced that the Bank has resolved to launch literacy campaign ‘Union Sakshar’ under CSR.

Special comic book titled “Jhatpat Loan”, Telugu, Bangla and Malayalam booklets under the Vyavaharit Bhasha Gyan Series and reference material prepared by Departments of Central Office were released during the programme.

Various Awards were presented to employees for their outstanding contribution in implementing Hindi language and to the winners of 9 Hindi competitions, which were organized during Hindi Fortnight.

This was followed by an entertaining Hasya kavi sammelan by well-known poets Rohit Sharma, Dinesh bawra, Dr. Rajnikant Mishra, Rakesh Tiwari and Priyesh Sinha. Staff members presented cultural program of song and dance performances.

BANGALORE, India, October 08, 2024—Whatfix, a pioneer in the “userization” of application technology, maximizing ROI on enterprise tech stacks, has announced its fourth liquidity program of USD58 million. The company facilitated liquidity for employees and investors at a premium to prior Series D round valuation. Eligible current and former employees have been given the opportunity to liquidate a portion of their vested units, recognizing their invaluable contributions. From time to time, the company has consistently facilitated secondary sales, ensuring that its employees and investors benefit directly from the company’s growth.

Khadim Batti, Whatfix CEO and co-founder said, “This program reflects our commitment to both business growth and recognizing those who have been integral to our success. We’re fostering a culture of ownership and innovation by offering employees and investors to share in our growth. Recently, our customer-first approach was recognized as Whatfix was named the only ‘Customer’s Choice’ in the 2024 Gartner Peer Insights DAP report. This program equally underscores our dedication to employees, reinforcing that our employee-centricity is second to none.”

Whatfix recently secured USD125 million in a Series E funding round led by Warburg Pincus with participation from existing investor SoftBank Vision Fund 2. The new round was raised at over 50% premium, reinforcing its dominance as a leader in digital adoption platform and fueling its expansion into DAP-adjacent offerings. Gartner, Forrester, IDC and Everest Group have all recognized Whatfix as a leader in the category in various DAP reports. The company has also been listed as the top DAP by Deloitte Technology Fast 500 for three consecutive years. Over 700 enterprises, including 80+ Fortune 500 companies such as Cisco, Arrow Electronics, Schneider Electric, Avnet, Genuine Parts Company, Becton Dickinson, Autozone, Aramark, and Kyndryl, along with 100+ technology, services, and consulting partners, trust Whatfix to accelerate the ROI on their tech investments and those of their customers.

Since 2021, Whatfix has launched four new products, showcasing the strong innovation DNA of the company. The company has been granted 5 patents by the US patent office with 18 more in the pipeline. Despite the macroeconomics and the headwinds in the last two to three years, Whatfix has distinguished itself by maintaining a low cash burn and sustaining growth rate. Whatfix also doubled its workforce to 960+ employees and opened four new offices in Singapore, Germany, Australia, and India since its Series D.

Ravindra Rai M. Appointed as Managing Director & CEO of BOBCARD LIMITED

New Delhi, 08 October 2024: BOBCARD LIMITED, a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Baroda, announces the appointment of Mr. Ravindra Rai M. to the position of Managing Director & CEO. Mr. Rai, who previously served as the Deputy Managing Director (DMD) of BOBCARD LIMITED, will now lead the company’s strategic initiatives aimed at solidifying its presence as a key player in the credit card industry.

Mr. Ravindra Rai brings with him nearly three decades of extensive experience in the Banking and Financial Services Industry. In his new role, Ravindra Rai will focus on driving business growth while strengthening the company’s risk management framework, enhance customer experience and curating innovative product portfolio that meets the evolving needs of the Indian consumer base—all in alignment with BOBCARD LIMITED’s motto of “Reimagining credit for India.”

Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Rai has held various key roles, including General Manager at Bank of Baroda. In his previous role at the parent Bank, he excelled in areas such as Treasury, Credit, International Banking, and Banking Operations. Prior to joining BOBCARD LIMITED, Mr. Rai spent over 15 years at Vijaya Bank, where he managed rural and corporate banking branches, oversaw strategic regions, and contributed significantly at the bank’s corporate office and overseas operations in the Middle East.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Ravindra Rai, MD & CEO, BOBCARD LIMITED said, “I am delighted to assume the role of Managing Director & CEO at BOBCARD LIMITED. This opportunity is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I am eager to lead our team in our mission to provide outstanding value and service to our customers. With a strong focus on innovation and a commitment to product excellence, I look forward to building on our tradition of success and guiding BOBCARD LIMITED toward a future of continued growth and achievement.”

Mr. Rai’s academic background includes a degree in Economics, a Master’s in Public Relations, and an associate membership with the Indian Institute of Bankers. He is also a certified forex professional and has specialized knowledge in IT and Cyber Security for Senior Management.

In addition to his professional achievements, Mr. Rai is a passionate cricketer, having represented Mangalore University, Zone and Karnataka State, where he earned accolades for his outstanding performances in sports.

By Dr Hari Gopinath, Consultant Paediatrician, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Kompally

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) pose a significant public health challenge in India, with millions affected annually. The primary vectors include mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies, transmitting diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and leishmaniosis (Kala Azar or Black Disease). Recent data from 2024 highlights the increasing incidence of these diseases, emphasizing the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

In 2024, India reported approximately 1.2 million cases of malaria, a 15% increase compared to the previous year. In Hyderabad alone, there were around 30,000 cases of dengue, marking a 20% rise. Additionally, chikungunya cases reached 15,000, while leishmaniasis affected around 5,000 individuals, predominantly in rural areas.

These figures indicate a worrying trend, exacerbated by urbanization, climate change, and inadequate sanitation. In Hyderabad, the monsoon season has led to increased vector populations, further elevating disease transmission risks.

Preventive measures are crucial in combating vector-borne diseases. Here are some recommended precautions:

Eliminate Breeding Sites: Regularly clean and remove stagnant water from containers, pots, and discarded tyres to prevent mosquito breeding.

Use Insect Repellents: Apply DEET-based repellents (safe above two months of age) on exposed skin, particularly during early morning and late evening when mosquitoes are most active.

Wear Protective Clothing: Don light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing to minimize skin exposure to mosquito bites.

Install Screens: Use window and door screens to keep insects out of living spaces.

Indoor Spraying: Utilize indoor residual spraying with approved insecticides to kill adult mosquitoes.

Community Awareness: Engage in community clean-up drives and awareness programs to educate others about preventive measures.

Treatment for vector-borne diseases varies based on the specific illness. Here are some common approaches:

Malaria: Antimalarial medications such as artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are effective. Severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous medication. The endemicity of malaria in our country is to be reiterated so as to make a timely diagnosis.

Dengue: There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Supportive care, including hydration and pain relief with acetaminophen, is crucial. Hospitalization may be required for severe cases. It is important to have a basic awareness of the warning symptoms of dengue, so as to attend the health care facility in time and to avoid unnecessary phobia associated with the diagnosis of dengue.

Chikungunya: Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms through pain relievers and hydration. Most patients recover within a week, although some may experience prolonged joint pain.

Leishmaniasis: Treatment involves antiparasitic medications such as sodium stibogluconate or liposomal amphotericin B, depending on the disease form and severity.

Dr. Prabhu Aggarwal, Dean of BSM stated, “At BSM, our core mission is to cultivate industry-ready individuals, ensuring they are equipped to address the challenges of the business world. Our programme empowers students with the knowledge, agility, and holistic skills essential for navigating the complexities of the modern professional landscape. Keeping up with the enthusiasm and energy of the founding batch, we are set to welcome the next batch of future business leaders. Our aim at BSM is to cultivate well-rounded individuals, instilling industry-readiness skills and critical thinking”.

NEW YORK and NOIDA, India, Oct 8, 2024—HCLTech, a leading global technology company, announces its participation as a gold sponsor at the World Summit AI, taking place on October 9 and 10, 2024, at the Taets Art & Event Park in Amsterdam. The company aims to play a pivotal role in shaping discussions around AI-driven digital transformation and enterprise innovation.

HCLTech will be represented by key leaders, including Vijay Guntur, Chief Technology Officer and Head of Ecosystems, and Alan Flower, Executive Vice President and Head of AI & Cloud Native Labs.

During the two-day summit, HCLTech will engage attendees through the following thought-provoking sessions:

AI that delivers business impact — Fireside Chat with Vijay Guntur  This session will explore how enterprises can develop effective business cases for AI, scale implementations and manage change while addressing crucial aspects such as responsible AI, culture and security.

Implementing GenAI – from idea to production — a workshop hosted by Alan Flower  In this engaging and experiential workshop, participants will learn how to convert their GenAI ideas into GenAI-enabled business solutions that can swiftly transition into scalable production.

In addition to these sessions, HCLTech will facilitate in-person meetings and lab sessions in a dedicated space at the venue.

“We are excited to participate in the World Summit AI and look forward to meaningful dialogues on enterprise AI and how organizations can leverage AI at scale to drive value stream innovation,” said Vijay Guntur, Chief Technology Officer and Head of Ecosystems, HCLTech.

“Our participation in the World Summit AI reflects our commitment to AI and GenAI, as we best equip leading enterprises with the strategies they need to effectively navigate and accelerate their AI journeys,” said Alan Flower, Executive Vice President and Head of AI & Cloud Native Labs, HCLTech.

On the sidelines of the summit, HCLTech will host exclusive partner roundtables, providing a platform for in-depth discussions on compelling AI topics.

Kolkata, 8th October, 2024: Bhowanipur 75 Palli a renowned Durga Puja committee in South Kolkata, has officially inaugurated its magnificent pandal for this year’s Diamond Jubilee celebration. The pandal, designed by renowned artist Shivshankar Das, is a breathtaking masterpiece that captures the essence of the theme, “Tobuo Tomar Kache Aamar Hridoy”.

The rustic aesthetic of the pandal, constructed using eco-friendly materials, is a testament to the committee’s commitment to sustainability. The intricate details and craftsmanship of the pandal are sure to awe visitors and leave a lasting impression. The centerpiece of the pandal is the beautifully crafted idol of Goddess Durga, designed by world-renowned artist Sanatan Dinda. The idol’s intricate details and vibrant colors bring the theme to life. In the words of poet Jibanananda Das, “Yet my heart is with you,” resonating with the sentiments of Kolkata’s residents, who find comfort and identity in their vibrant city.

Speaking to the media, Mr. Subir Das, Club Secretary said, “ Today marks not just a celebration of our Diamond Jubilee, but a reaffirmation of our love for Kolkata and its rich cultural tapestry. The theme ‘Tobuo Tomar Kache Aamar Hridoy’ embodies our heartfelt connection to the city, reminding us of the vibrant community we are part of. As we move forward, we remain committed to blending tradition with innovation and giving back to the community that has nurtured us for 60 years.”

He added, “Come, let’s explore our beautiful city of joy by walking through its lanes and bylanes to discover another Kolkata within our very own. Let’s savor its deep-rooted culture, heritage, food, architectural wonders.” ‎

In addition to the grand celebrations, Bhowanipur 75 Palli is committed to social responsibility. A portion of the donations collected during Durga Puja is dedicated to various social initiatives throughout the year. These efforts include complimentary health check-ups, awareness programs on socio-economic issues, and blood, body, and eye donation camps. The committee also distributes clothing to the underprivileged and educational kits to children in need, reinforcing its dedication to community welfare.

Hyderabad, 07th October 2024: Recordent, India’s leading accounts receivable (AR) automation platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), has enhanced its platform with the addition of the Zoho Books Connector, designed to streamline and automate AR processes for businesses across India. This integration aligns perfectly with Recordent’s mission to provide SMEs with innovative tools that foster financial resilience and sustainable growth in a competitive marketplace.

Following the success of the Tally plug-in, this new addition will help SMEs to transform their collections and focus on growth. While Zoho Books is a popular accounting ERP platform offering robust solutions for invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting, the Recordent Zoho Books connector provides an added layer of specialized AR management. It empowers businesses to optimize collections, assess credit risks, and manage cash flows effectively—going beyond the capabilities of traditional accounting functions. By leveraging Recordent’s AR automation capabilities alongside Zoho Books, businesses gain a comprehensive view of their financial landscape, enhancing their ability to manage and forecast cash flows, address late payments proactively, and improve overall financial health.

The Zoho Books Connector offers significant benefits for SMEs, including real-time data synchronization that automates the syncing of invoices, payments, and customer data, eliminating manual entry and reducing errors. It enhances collection efficiency by automating payment reminders and account statements, saving time and resources. Additionally, the integration provides insights into outstanding receivables for timely actions like issuing legal notices and improves credit risk management to better assess customer creditworthiness and mitigate delayed payments. Overall, centralized financial management streamlines workflows and empowers SMEs to manage all operations on a unified platform.

Mr. Winny Patro, CEO and Co-Founder, Recordent, stated, “This integration with Zoho Books is a significant step forward in our mission to empower SMEs. It not only simplifies AR and collections management but also provides businesses with a holistic view of their financial health, enabling them to optimize cash flow and mitigate risks.”

Recordent’s integration with Zoho Books is designed for growing businesses that rely on efficient AR processes to drive growth and success. SMEs can now automate their collections, gain deeper insights into their receivables, and protect their businesses from credit risks with ease.

India, 7 October 2024: Work-Integrated Learning for Leadership (WILL), in partnership with UPES, a multidisciplinary university, is proud to announce the inauguration of the Shakti Women Leadership Program, aimed at empowering women professionals in the energy sector to develop their leadership skills and accelerate their career growth.

The inauguration event saw the presence of distinguished guests, including Dr. R. Meenakshi Sundaram, IAS (Secretary, Energy, Housing, and Planning of the Uttarakhand Government), who delivered a keynote address on the importance of women leadership in the modern world. Notable attendees included Mr. PC Dhyani, MD of Power Transmission Corporation of Uttarakhand Ltd. (PTCUL).

The launch was graced by several distinguished HR professionals from the energy sector. Key HR guests included Mr. Ashish Jain, ED-HR of Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd. (UJVNL); Mr. Jitendra Singh, Deputy Chief Personnel Officer, Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL); Mr. Pranay Kaparwan, Officer Personnel UPCL and Mr. Sunil Kumar, Joint GM of Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (UREDA). These HR leaders have played a crucial role in selecting and encouraging participants from their respective organisations, to join the leadership development program. The inaugural cohort comprises 12 participants from UJVNL, 8 from UPCL, 12 from PTCUL, and 2 from UREDA, reflecting a strong commitment to empowering women leaders across the energy sector.

The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Ram Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of UPES, followed by a lamp lighting ceremony symbolising the illumination of knowledge and empowerment. Professors, Dr. Antarpreet Singh and Dr. Debjani Mukherjee provided a comprehensive overview of the Shakti program’s objectives and structure, highlighting its focus on empowering women leaders in various industries.

The Shakti Women Leadership Program is designed to provide a work-integrated learning experience for women leaders, combining both online and offline modules. will learn self-discovery techniques to convert potential into performance, leverage strengths for career growth, and navigate complex organisational dynamics. The course focuses on leading change in the age of AI, building strong communication and negotiation skills, and mastering workforce management across generations. Additionally, they will develop data-driven decision-making capabilities and gain insights into ethical AI adoption to shape a future-ready identity.

The program offers a holistic approach to leadership development, fostering the skills necessary for women leaders to thrive in their professional journeys. The program will feature guest lectures, interactive sessions, and workshops conducted by prominent women leaders in various fields. It will be delivered through a blend of online sessions (70%) and physical immersion experiences (30%), totalling 40 hours of learning. The program will end with a convocation ceremony.

Dr. Antarpreet Singh, Director (Academics) Executive Education, WILL Education and Program Chair said, “Shakti, The Women Leadership Program, designed by WILL, in collaboration with UPES, takes a holistic approach to sharpen women leadership skills at personal, interpersonal, and strategic levels. With a focus on AI-driven transformation and data-driven decision-making, the program enhances participants’ behavioural competencies, empowering women leaders to excel in their careers and lead through change effectively.”