All posts by K S Krishna

23 December 2024 – Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of national carrier Malaysia Airlines, proudly commemorated the arrival of its first A330-900 (A330neo) aircraft today with a launch ceremony held at Hangar 6, MAB Engineering Complex. This milestone marks a pivotal step in MAG’s fleet modernisation strategy as it strengthens its commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and providing passengers with an elevated level of comfort and service.

The aircraft, registered as 9M-MNG, was officially launched by Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia, together with Dato’ Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir, Managing Director of Khazanah Nasional Berhad, MAG’s main shareholder; and Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG. The aircraft will embark on its maiden flight to Melbourne via flight MH149 later this evening at 10:30pm local time and will gradually service long-haul routes across Australasia, among others.

YB Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia said, “The launch of MAG’s first Airbus A330neo is not simply the introduction of a new aircraft; it is the culmination of resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of progress.

It reflects MAG’s determination to lead in a competitive industry, our nation’s commitment to sustainability, and the extraordinary potential of Malaysian talent.”

Datuk Captain Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “The debut of our first A330neo marks a transformative moment for MAG as we modernise our fleet and set a new era of air travel where innovation, comfort, and sustainability come together seamlessly. This commitment underscores our dedication to placing our passengers at the heart of everything we do, delivering an exceptional and unforgettable journey that embodies the warmth and care of Malaysian Hospitality.”

The A330neo is the latest aircraft to join MAG’s growing fleet, with a total of 20 to be delivered by 2028 following its Memorandum of Understandings (MOU) with Airbus, Rolls-Royce and Avolon in August 2022. Powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo features the latest innovations in aerodynamics, and advanced materials, delivering a 14% reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft.

MAG’s A330neo aircraft comprises 297 seats (28 in Business Class and 269 in Economy Class, of which 24 seats come with extra legroom). With a 1-2-1 herringbone configuration, the newly designed Collins Aerospace Elevation Business Class seats will be a first for the Group, featuring an all-suite cabin with individual privacy doors which prioritise cabin comfort and practicality.

The new A330neo aircraft is set to elevate the travel experience with a host of advanced features, including the industry-leading FlightPath3D moving map system — the most interactive across all

MAG fleet – offering real-time tracking and detailed journey insights, enhancing the way passengers explore the skies. In keeping with the airline’s family-friendly approach, the aircraft’s in-flight entertainment system will also come with ‘Kids Mode’, providing a seamless interface to keep them entertained throughout their journey.

Passengers can also enjoy a comprehensive destination guide that highlights the culture and history of the destinations served by the aircraft. Additionally, the aircraft will come with high-speed connectivity, allowing all passengers, regardless of cabin class or loyalty tier, to enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi onboard. In addition, Business Class passengers can also indulge in the SkySnacks offering, a self-service concept featuring a curated selection of light snacks to munch at any time.

At the same event, Malaysia Airlines unveiled an exclusive partnership with Mercedes-Benz as its private terminal transfer service provider starting January 2025. Eligible passengers will enjoy travelling in premium comfort and will be chauffeured in style in the all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS 500 4MATIC and Mercedes-Benz S 580 e plug-in hybrid – that delivers quiet, dynamic, and luxurious experience, making them the perfect choice for this exclusive service, where sustainability and sophistication converge seamlessly. The airline is the only carrier to introduce this private transfer service in KLIA Terminal 1 between the Main Terminal Building and Satellite Building as part of its commitment to elevating the passenger experience.

MAG currently operates a fleet of 107 aircraft across its subsidiaries, including Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings and MASkargo. Looking ahead, the Group plans to expand its fleet to 62 narrowbody and 52 widebody aircraft by 2033. Its fifth Boeing 737-8 aircraft was delivered mid-December, with the remaining 20 expected between 2025-2026.

23rd December 2024 – The much-awaited Bhimthadi Jatra returns for its 18th edition, promising an unparalleled showcase of Maharashtra’s rural arts, culture, and sustainable innovation. From 20th to 25th December 2024, at the College of Agriculture Ground, Sinchan Nagar, Pune, this iconic event will bring together rural artisans, entrepreneurs, and urban audiences in a vibrant celebration of traditions and modernity.

This year’s Jatra holds special significance as it marks the 25th Death Anniversary of Padmashree (Late) Shri Appasaheb Pawar, a pioneering agriculturalist renowned for his revolutionary contributions, including the introduction of drip irrigation. In honor of his legacy, a memorial section will be set up at the entrance, highlighting his life and groundbreaking achievements, ensuring that the Jatra remains deeply rooted in agricultural innovation and rural progress.

Expected to attract over 1 lakh visitors, Bhimthadi Jatra 2024 will be a prime platform for promoting rural entrepreneurship and cultural exchange. The event will feature a wide array of exciting highlights, beginning with the Farmers’ Produce Section, which will emphasize “Residue-Free” products, ensuring clear communication regarding the health benefits and sustainability of these items. This section will also showcase GI-tagged products, fresh farm produce, including honey, and other agricultural innovations.

A new Bee and Butterfly Conservation Initiative will introduce an Indigenous Plant Garden, educating visitors on the essential role of pollinators in agriculture and biodiversity.

The Bhimthadi Select Section will house 30 premium stalls showcasing sustainable textiles, clothing crafted with natural dyes, and handcrafted lifestyle products, reflecting India’s rich artisan heritage. The Swayamsiddha Section, dedicated to women entrepreneurs and self-help groups, will feature items such as bamboo jewelry and clay diyas made by specially-abled children. This section will also highlight FSSAI-certified food products, including millet snacks, pumpkin juice, and wood apple barfi.

For the first time, Telangana Stalls will enrich the Jatra’s cultural tapestry, offering traditional handlooms and authentic cuisine from the region. Another key highlight is the Bara Balutedar Section, which will pay tribute to Maharashtra’s traditional occupational communities. Visitors will witness live demonstrations of rural craftsmanship by artisans such as Chambhars (cobblers), Kumbhars (potters), and Mang (bamboo artisans), providing an immersive experience into Maharashtra’s rural economy.

The food area will continue to be a major attraction, offering authentic Maharashtrian delicacies such as Malvani seafood thalis, Kolhapuri tambda-pandhra rassa, and sweet treats like ukadiche modak and khapri varchi puran poli.

In addition to the exhibits and stalls, the Jatra will host engaging workshops, including a Saree Draping Workshop by Ashwini Narayan at 6pm on 20th December 2024, designed to make saree draping fun and accessible for younger audiences.

This year, the ShareYourPrivilege Campaign will encourage urban audiences especially younger generations to embrace cultural diversity and bridge the rural-urban divide. The event continues its mission to empower women by providing them a platform to showcase their skills and entrepreneurial spirit through handicrafts, textiles, and culinary creations.

Commenting on this Mrs. Sunanda Tai Pawar said “Bhimthadi Jatra is more than just an event; it is a celebration of the heart and soul of rural Maharashtra. This year, as we honor the remarkable legacy of Shri Appasaheb Pawar on his 25th death anniversary, we are reminded of the deep connection between agricultural innovation and sustainable progress. Through this platform, we aim to empower rural artisans and entrepreneurs, fostering a space where tradition and modernity coexist, inspiring both urban and rural communities alike. I invite all to witness this harmonious blend of culture, sustainability, and creativity at Bhimthadi Jatra 2024.”

Bhimthadi Jatra 2024 will take place from 20th to 25th December 2024, between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM at the College of Agricultural Ground, Sinchan Nagar, Pune.  Visitors will also have access to a range of facilities, including wheelchair access, pet-friendly zones, shopping carts, medical aid, washrooms, trial rooms, and more.

Agriculture College will open its main gate on University Road on Saturday, Sunday and 25th December for ease of travel to Bhimthadi Jatra.

52nd Annual Meeting of The Federation of Corrugated Box Manufacturers (FCBM) witnesses wide industry participation

Bengaluru, December 23, 2024 — The 52nd Annual Meeting and Exhibition of the Federation of Corrugated Box Manufacturers (FCBM) was inaugurated in the city, marking a significant milestone for India’s rapidly growing corrugated packaging industry. With a market size of approximately ₹50,000 crore annually and a growth rate of 10-12%, the corrugated box manufacturing sector is poised to continue its upward trajectory for the next 5 to 10 years.

Noted Defence Economist and Senior Fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, Mr. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra was the chief guest and delivered the inaugural address. Mr. C Arun Kumar, CEO – of Consumer Business, Signify Innovations India Limited (Formerly Philips Lighting India Limited) delivered the keynote address. The inauguration ceremony saw participation from leading industry experts, manufacturers, and policymakers, who discussed the key drivers and future trends shaping the industry. Keynote addresses highlighted the significant role of the sector in driving sustainability, efficiency, and innovation across various industries, including food and beverage, e-commerce, and more.

India is home to more than 600 automated plants and approximately 7,000 semi-automatic plants in the corrugated box manufacturing space. The industry employs over half a million people and processes about 2 million tons of Kraft paper annually into corrugated boxes. This vibrant sector has become crucial for improving product safety, particularly in the food and beverage industry, while also catering to the booming e-commerce market.

“The corrugated box industry in India is witnessing unparalleled growth, driven by strong demand in key sectors and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. The global corrugated packaging Industry is estimated to be at $300 billion and is growing at a CAGR of 4.3% fueled by expansion of e-commerce consumer preference for biodegradable packaging and innovations in lightweight materials. The Indian packaging industry is estimated to grow at 22 to 25% annually and the corrugated packaging Industry is expected to grow at 10-12%. As we look ahead, we anticipate significant shifts toward larger automatic plants and advanced machinery, which will not only enhance productivity but also meet the evolving needs of consumers and businesses alike.” said Dharmendra V. Pandya, President of FCBM.

Factors Driving Growth

Some of the key factors fueling the growth of the industry include the increasing demand for packaging solutions in the food and beverage industry, the rapid rise of e-commerce, and favorable government initiatives aimed at boosting manufacturing capabilities and sustainability. The ongoing shift towards automation, particularly with the deployment of Inline Automatic Board and Box Making Plants, is expected to streamline production and eliminate existing bottlenecks in the semi-automatic processes.

Trends

Other anticipated trends include a rise in the use of Folder Gluers and Rotary Diecutters, advancements in multicolor flexo printing, and an increased focus on display and promotional packaging. Flexo printing, in particular, is expected to revolutionize in-house printing operations, reducing reliance on screen printing and offset presses.

The future of the corrugated packaging industry is also expected to see a growing consolidation of large-scale units to meet the rising demand for high-volume production and cost competitiveness. Large corporates and bulk users are increasingly seeking single or multiple alternative vendors capable of delivering stringent specifications, alternative designs, and just-in-time deliveries.

The rise of reverse bidding, coupled with the concept of First Pak, will further enhance the competitiveness of large units, while the trend of locating corrugated box units closer to user locations may see a shift. With the growing interest in machinery from China, Taiwan, and other Asian countries, collaborations and alliances between local manufacturers and international suppliers are expected to shape the future of the industry.

The FCBM’s Annual Meeting serves as a vital platform for stakeholders across the industry to come together, share insights, and discuss the future of the corrugated packaging sector. As India’s corrugated packaging industry continues to evolve, the focus on innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement will remain key to maintaining its competitive edge.

December 21, 2024 – International Workplace Group, the world’s largest provider of hybrid working solutions with brands including Spaces and Regus, is opening a state-of-the-art flexible workspace in Mysuru, Karnataka. As the adoption of hybrid working rapidly accelerates across Karnataka, the number of enquiries for space in International Workplace Group locations has risen sharply and this new opening helps meet rising demand.

The addition of International Workplace Group’s latest location in Mysuru comes on the heels of the business posting its highest-ever revenue, cashflow and earnings growth in its history and achieving rapid network growth, signing 465 new locations in the first half of 2024 alone.

Situated near the exit of Bangalore-Mysore Highway, Bannimantap is developing residential and commercial area with schools, markets, and amenities that make it a thriving part of Mysore city. Its convenient location and cultural importance make it a vital landmark in Mysore’s rich heritage. This new location is part of a drive by International Workplace Group to meet the sharply rising demand for top class flexible working spaces to one of Karnataka’s fastest growing cities. By bringing a high-quality office space to Mysuru, International Workplace Group is enabling local people to experience living in a ’15-minute’ city, allowing workers to work close to their homes without commuting far from where they live.

The 1678 sqcm center will provide space for established firms and start-ups across a range of industries including manufacturing, biotechnology, IT services, education, textiles, food processing, and hospitality companies to tailor their space entirely to their requirements. The new Regus location will include facilities including private offices, meeting rooms, co-working and creative spaces.

Balaji Pothraj, Managing Director, Pothraj Group, said “We are excited to bring Regus to Mysuru, offering businesses a workspace solution that meets global standards of excellence. This project underscores our dedication to enhancing the city’s infrastructure and fostering a professional, environment for businesses to grow and succeed. Looking ahead, we are exploring opportunities to expand further across Karnataka and India, with plans for Regus-managed offices in Hubballi, Mangaluru, and North Bengaluru. Our goal is to strengthen Regus’s presence in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, addressing the rising demand for premium office spaces in these regions and supporting the growth of local economies.”

Speaking about the new location, Harsh Lambah, Country Manager – India and Vice President –Sales, IWG, said “We are excited to expand our presence in Karnataka with the launch of our new center in Mysuru, in partnership with the Pothraj Group. Mysuru, often referred to as the cultural capital of Karnataka, is celebrated for its rich heritage, royal legacy, and dynamic business environment, marks a significant milestone as the third city in the region where IWG has introduced Regus. With its excellent connectivity to key commercial hubs like Bengaluru and Mangaluru, Mysuru serves as a vital gateway to Karnataka’s flourishing IT and industrial sectors, fostering growth and innovation across industries. The new center will offer a range of flexible workspace solutions, including customizable office spaces and suites, available on both short- and long-term contracts to cater to diverse client needs. Our continued expansion highlights IWG’s commitment to empowering businesses across the region with innovative, flexible work solutions.”

With explosive market growth as companies of all sizes adopt hybrid working for the long-term, it is predicted that 30% of all commercial real estate will be flexible workspace by 2030. With International Workplace Group, partners can capitalise on this fast-growing sector, while being supported by International Workplace Group’s unparalleled experience. Hybrid working offers companies a significantly lower cost base with an average saving of £9,000 per employee[i].

International Workplace Group is the world’s leading provider of flexible workspace – featuring 4,000 locations in more than 120 countries with members able to access all the locations and business services via the International Workplace Group app.

As the ongoing shift towards hybrid working accelerates, the potential for further growth is exponential with an estimated 1.2 billion white collar workers globally and a total addressable market of more than £1.57 trillion. Conventional office occupancy will continue to fall as businesses require less traditional space and turn to flexible workspace instead. In 2023, International Workplace Group welcomed over 800 new partner locations and counts 83 per cent of Fortune 500 companies among its customer base.

21th December 2024: In recent years, Museum Hotels have captured imaginations worldwide, offering spaces where history comes alive and visitors immerse themselves in authentic cultural experiences. Blending education with entertainment, the movement allows guests to live in a museum surrounding connecting them with the by gone era, making history tangible and memorable.

House of Sheherwali: A Museum where you can stay

The House of Sheherwali is celebrated for its timeless elegance and impeccable hospitality. As the first Museum Hotel of its kind in eastern India, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore Sheherwali heritage. Located at the highest and best part of Azimgunj, one can have stunning view of the river from every nook and corner of the property. Adorned with exquisite antiques and art, it is a sanctuary for those seeking a regal getaway immersed in the history and traditions of Bengal’s golden era.

Marrying history with Sheherwali culture, the House of Sheherwali blends luxury and heritage. Its serene ambience and unprecedented upcycling & restoration of discarded historical artifacts causing minimum damage to the environment reflect Jain philosophy of Aprigrah. Located in the heart of Murshidabad, the property offers easy access to it’s iconic landmarks almost 50 protected sites within 5km radius by ASI. The House of Sheherwali features spacious accommodations styled after prominent Sheherwali Sardar families, with modern amenities ensuring a comfortable stay.

At the heart of the property lies a beautiful Jain temple. The Museum Hotel showcases treasures from British, Dutch, French and Portuguese along with Sheherwali, Mughal, and Bengali households, creating a unique blend of aesthetic and story tell me. This fusion of artistry permeates every corner, making the House of Sheherwali a Museum Hotel showcasing Murshidabad’s glorious past.

A Memorable Sheherwali Experience

The House of Sheherwali is as much about history as creating cherished memories. Evenings are best spent enjoying stunning views of the Ganges from the rooftop terrace with a cup of Sheherwali chai. The surrounding streets are filled with quaint shops and authentic Sheherwali cuisine. Organically grown fruits and vegetables from our own vegetable farm and fruit orchards ensure fresh fruits & vegetables to the table; guests would also embark on a culinary journey showcasing the unique flavors of Sheherwali vegetarian dishes from the research book authored by Sri Pradip Chopra.

The Visionary Behind the House of Sheherwali

The House of Sheherwali owes its existence to Pradip Chopra, a dedicated custodian of Sheherwali heritage. With roots in Murshidabad’s Jain community, his mission has been to preserve and celebrate this legacy. Known for his passion for art and antiques, he has transformed this historic residence into an immersive Museum Hotel experience.

21st December 2024: Hindustan Zinc Limited, India’s largest and the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer, has been recognized among the Top 50 Companies with Great Managers in India for 2024. This recognition presented by People Business Consulting further bolsters Hindustan Zinc’s position as a preferred equal-opportunity employer reflective of the company’s continued dedication to building a high-performance organization.

The companies with the ‘Great Managers Award’ is one of the most highly acclaimed recognitions that enables organizations to compare & benchmark people practices across the industry. In addition to being amongst India’s Top 50 Companies with Great Managers, three of Hindustan Zinc’s leaders have been named in India’s Top 100 Great Managers for 2024. The awarding process involved a meticulous evaluation that included comprehensive team feedback and rigorous interviews conducted by an esteemed jury panel comprising of industry experts. This recognition underlines the company’s commitment to fostering an organization that offers an environment for high-quality learning and rapid growth opportunities to its employees, enabling them to have both fulfilling professional careers and well-balanced lives beyond the workplace.

Arun Misra, CEO and full-time director, of Hindustan Zinc Limited, stated, “We are proud to be recognized as one of the Top 50 Companies with Great Managers in India. At Hindustan Zinc, our employees have the unique experience of working with the stability of a global giant, leveraging the best business practices globally, while working for an organization that has the agility of a start-up. This, combined with our gender-agnostic, merit-first practices is the secret sauce that has resulted in a strong cadre of great managers. As we continue our journey to excellence, Hindustan Zinc continues to deepen its talent pool with future-ready skillsets to create leaders of tomorrow. ”

As India’s premier metals company, Hindustan Zinc remains at the forefront of fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. The company has long prioritized initiatives aimed at breaking barriers and setting new standards by ensuring a standardized work experience powered by rapid digitalization and automation that is breaking the misconception of heavy & physical labor associated with the sector. Hindustan Zinc’s commitment to supporting employees at every stage of life—both personally and professionally—has led to rich job content, career-enhancing, equal opportunities, including night shifts, flexible-work hours, and progressive workplace policies like spouse hiring, year-long sabbaticals for childcare, and leave policies prioritizing mental and physical health. The company also promotes talent mobility for job satisfaction for those who want to work in different business function depending on their interest and aptitude. In addition, the company has institutionalized several programmes for skilling, upskilling and re-skilling employees to ensure they are at the absolute cutting-edge of job-enrichment. These programmes include classroom training, mentoring & training from global experts, behavioural programmes and a plethora of practical, technical training programmes.

Hindustan Zinc, a Vedanta Group company, is the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and the third-largest silver producer. Hindustan Zinc has been recognized as the world’s most sustainable company in the metals and mining category by the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023, reflecting its operational excellence, innovation, and leading ESG practices. The company also launched EcoZen, Asia’s first low carbon ‘green’ zinc brand that has a carbon footprint of less than 1 tonne of carbon equivalent per tonne of zinc produced. Hindustan Zinc is also a certified 2.41 times Water-Positive company and is committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 or sooner. As a world leader in the metals and mining industry, Hindustan Zinc is pivotal in providing critical metals essential for the global energy transition towards a sustainable future.

21 December 2024—Meril Academy recently hosted the KeySurge Knowledge Bridge program in Bangalore, marking the culmination of a successful series of events across Delhi and Mumbai. The Bangalore edition, the largest yet, brought together over 100 delegates, including OT Store Managers, OT Heads, Supply Chain Managers, and Purchase Heads from premier healthcare institutions across the country.

The program featured renowned speakers who delivered impactful sessions. Dr. Prabhu Nasergikar, Surgical Oncologist at HCG Hospital, and Dr. Ganesh Shenoy, Director of GI Surgery at Kauvery Hospital, shared critical insights into the latest advancements in inventory management and supply chain optimization. Dr. Abel Asirvatham led a focused session on quality assurance in operation theatres, highlighting the importance of precision and collaboration in surgical environments. Nitin Thakur – Business Head of Sales & Marketing – Meril’s presentation on “Healthcare Trends & How Meril is Partnering with India’s Healthcare Mission” highlighted the company’s role in shaping the healthcare landscape.

In Mumbai, speakers like Dr. Manmohan Kamat from Max Nanavati Hospital and Mrs. Neeta Pawar from Godrej Memorial Hospital offered critical perspectives on surgeons’ expectations and inventory management. These programs collectively drew over 250 healthcare professionals, fostering knowledge-sharing across cities. The Delhi edition featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. Shagun Agarwal, Surgical Oncologist from Sir Gangaram Hospital, Mr. Vikas Goyal, SCM Head from Fortis Gurugram, and Mr. Sudhir Verma, Consultant Material Management from RGCI, who shared valuable insights into the latest advancements in healthcare operations.

The program concluded on a high note, with participants commending the event’s practical relevance, actionable takeaways, and professional value. Meril remains committed to its mission of advancing healthcare in India by fostering innovation, sharing expertise, and creating platforms for meaningful dialogue.

21th December 2024: Interarch Building Products Limited, a leading player in the Pre-Engineered Building (PEB) Industry, has projected a 50% growth in North India for FY 25-26, with the majority of this growth coming from Uttar Pradesh. The North region is expected to contribute 30% to the company’s overall business volume during this period.

Mr. Manish Garg, CEO of Interarch Building Products Limited, said, “Our growth in North India highlights the region’s potential for industrial development. We’ve executed major projects for brands like Hindustan Unilever, PepsiCo, Addverb Technologies, Yamaha Motor and more, which have driven our success in the region.

Today, Mr. Garg is in Lucknow to visit the Ashok Leyland facility and oversee preparations for the erection of one of the largest PEB structures in the region. The company is involved in engineering, manufacturing, and erecting a large PEB facility for Ashok Leyland in Uttar Pradesh, focused on electric bus production, marking a significant step in sustainable transportation

He said ”The Ashok Leyland project further reinforces our commitment to sustainable growth and innovation. We were born in Uttar Pradesh, and the state holds a special place in our hearts. Our connection to UP is not just professional but deeply emotional, and we are proud to contribute to its industrial growth.”

In addition, Mr. Manish Garg will be the main speaker at the upcoming CGI (Closed Group Interaction) event, which the company is organizing. The event will be attended by leading architects, consultants and end users from the city and will be held at the Hotel Hyatt, Gomti Nagar.

Interarch is also undertaking significant capacity expansion at its Kichha plant to enhance its regional footprint.

December 21th, 2024: Global communications platform Infobip has reported record-breaking communications interactions during Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Cyber Week. India has emerged as a key growth market for Rich Communication Services (RCS) and WhatsApp interactions, underscoring the rising importance of conversational experiences. Globally, the platform recorded 3.4bn interactions on Black Friday – a 26% increase – with Cyber Week (Friday, 29 Nov to Monday, 2 December) witnessing a remarkable 41% surge, compared to last year.

This Black Friday marked a seismic shift in how Indian consumers prefer to engage with brands. RCS interactions surged by an extraordinary 1162%, while WhatsApp engagement grew by 113%, proving that conversational channels are now a must-have for brands. Cyber Monday data for India also mirrored similar growth trajectories as WhatsApp interactions grew by 74.7%, while RCS interactions surged by 1455.2%. The momentum continued, with RCS growing by 542.59% and WhatsApp by 111.14% during Cyber Week.

Offering enhanced multimedia capabilities, RCS is enabling businesses to connect with customers in a way that is more engaging and hyper-personalized. Globally, RCS interactions on Black Friday increased by 394% with an impressive 349% rise during Cyber Week compared to last year, solidifying its role as a fastest growing channel for retailers worldwide. Infobip further reveals that, in this year’s Black Friday, Retail & eCommerce and Finance industries are among the top 5 sectors driving interactions on its platform, recording year-on-year growth of 42% and 35%, respectively.

Harsha Solanki, VP GM – Asia, Infobip, said, “This Black Friday and Cyber Monday, we saw a four-fold increase in RCS interactions in India – a testament to the growing preference for conversational engagement. As customers demand more meaningful and seamless experiences, RCS has proven to be a game-changer, driving sales, offering end-to-end journeys, and enhancing customer satisfaction throughout the shopping period. In today’s cost-conscious and digitally-driven market, adopting RCS is not just an option – it’s essential for businesses looking to stay ahead and meet the evolving needs of their customers.”

December 21, 2024 – OPAL-RT Technologies, the global leader in PC/FPGA-based real-time simulation solutions, proudly wrapped up its first-ever RT24-IN Conference on December 17th and 18th, in Bengaluru 2024. They witnessed the participation of over 350 experts from academia, government organizations, and industries like Aerospace, Power Systems, Energy Conversion, eMobility, and more. This event marks a significant milestone in OPAL-RT’s ongoing expansion into the Indian market and highlights the growing interest in cutting-edge real-time simulation technologies in the region.

The conference, which focused on innovations in real-time simulation, featured a range of exciting presentations, product demonstrations, and networking opportunities. A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of OPAL-RT’s newest product – the OP1400-BM Bench, a specialized system designed to meet the needs of the academic market. This addition to the OP1400 product family is compact, low-power, and integrates seamlessly into academic teaching and research platforms. Powered by a standard single-phase socket, the OP1400-BM Bench is a safe and efficient Power-Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) system, designed to make real-time simulation more accessible for students and researchers. This product is a result of a collaboration with Bitlismen a leading brand specializing in cutting-edge digital solutions and innovation in blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies.

In addition to the product launch, attendees had the opportunity to engage in product displays and demos, showcasing the latest developments in real-time simulation. Industry leaders and clients who had been using OPAL-RT products for the past several weeks shared their insights, providing valuable feedback and recommendations.

The event also hosted a distinguished lineup of speakers. Eminent academicians like, Prof. Dr. Siddhartha Mukhopadhyay, IIT Kharagpur, Assoc.Prof.. Dr. Sarasij Das, IISc, Prof. Dr Faruk Kazi; VJTI, & Dr R K Singh; Professor, IIT (BHU). Leading Non-Academia leaders like Mr. Rajesh Karvande; Scientist, RCI-DRDO, Ms. Ujjwala Karle; Deputy Director, ARAI, Dr. Himadri Bhushan Das, Chief Solution Architect, Electra EV and Mr Reji Kumar Pillai, President, ISGF.

Girish Nanjundaiah, Managing Director – Indian Subcontinent, OPAL-RT Technologies India Pvt. Ltd. – India, shared his pride in marking a significant milestone for OPAL-RT in India: “Today, as we conclude our first-ever real-time simulation event in India, I am proud to see how far we’ve come. Just this morning, I came across a job posting on LinkedIn from a company actively seeking professionals who are familiar with OPAL-RT and know how to operate our systems. It’s incredibly gratifying to see our efforts in advancing real-time simulation technology come to fruition, and we’re excited to continue driving innovation and growth in this space.”

RT24-IN not only provided a platform for learning and knowledge-sharing but also highlighted the growing demand for skilled professionals familiar with OPAL-RT products. In today’s competitive market, brands are actively seeking individuals with expertise in real-time simulation and OPAL-RT’s advanced products. The conference served as a vital job-seeking platform where students, academics, and industry professionals could connect and explore new opportunities. With its successful inaugural event, OPAL-RT Technologies has cemented its position as a key player in the Indian market and remains committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in real-time simulation technologies.This has effectively bridged the gap between job seekers and employers in the real-time simulation industry and ecosystem.