Category business

19th May 2023: Alia Bhatt was felicitated with the ‘Entertainment Leader of the Year’ award at the prestigious CNBC-TV18 India Business Leader Awards 2023, held at the Jio World Convention in Mumbai.

In her acceptance speech, Alia Bhatt emphasized the importance of making choices when it comes to balancing motherhood and her career, saying, “I don’t believe in either-or situations. After motherhood, my priorities have changed, but that is my choice.” She also put a spotlight on the fact that societal pressure on women to ace every role can be overwhelming and unnecessary.

Speaking about her daughter, Alia shared that while she was attending the event, her husband, Ranbir Kapoor, was at home taking care of their daughter, Raha, and babysitting. The award-winning actress also serenaded her fans with a rendition of the song Kesariya at the end of the event.

Alia Bhatt has been a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry and this award is yet another feather in her cap. Her candid remarks about societal pressures and choices in motherhood and career are inspiring and relatable for many women out there

19th May 2023, Bangalore – HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, today announces additions to its market-leading feature phone portfolio with the new Nokia 105 2023 and Nokia 106. These phones come with an inbuilt UPI 123PAY functionality, combining the trusted reliability of Nokia phones with the convenience and accessibility of UPI, enabling users to securely and seamlessly perform digital transactions even without a smartphone.

UPI 123PAY is NPCI’s instant payment system for feature phone users who can use Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment service in a safe and secure manner. Through UPI 123PAY, feature phone users will be able to undertake a host of transactions based on four technology alternatives such as calling an IVR (interactive voice response) number, app functionality in feature phones, missed call-based approach and proximity sound-based payments.

Featuring incredible battery life, simplicity and accessible price points, both phones offer the reassurance and reliability expected from a Nokia phone.

Ravi Kunwar, VP- India & APAC, HMD Global added “We are excited to launch the market-leading feature phones, Nokia 105 2023 and Nokia 106 4G, more relevant than ever with the introduction of UPI feature. Through the introduction of UPI feature in our feature phones, we aim to empower feature phone users with the ability to perform secure , convenient digital transactions with ease and move ahead with the times. By bringing UPI to our beloved feature phones, Nokia 105 and Nokia 106 4G, we strive to bridge the digital divide and enable financial access for all”

Ms. Praveena Rai, Chief Operating Officer, NPCI said, “We are excited to associate with HMD Global in bringing UPI 123PAY functionality to Nokia feature phones. This partnership allows us to extend the convenience and accessibility of UPI to more users, enabling secure and seamless digital transactions on affordable devices. We believe that empowering feature phone users with UPI capabilities will contribute to provide more users with the ease and convenience of using UPI and encourage the adoption of digital financial services.”

Beerud Sheth, Founder and CEO, Gupshup said, “For true financial inclusion to become a reality, payments and commerce have to come together. While this was available for smartphone users, a vast swathe of the feature phone customers were aloof from the transformative power of mobile payments. With our UPI solution for feature phones, we are proud to have built something that brings inclusive finance closer to people, empowering them along the way. We are glad to receive NPCI’s support for this initiative and work alongside Nokia mobiles to make digital payments and UPI even more ubiquitous.”

Designed to Keep You Connected
Nokia 106 4G has undergone rigorous durability testing to withstand even the toughest environments, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity no matter the circumstances. The carefully considered spacing between each button on the keymat, makes it easy to dial and text, even in the dark. IPS display technology brings clearer views with better viewing angles and colour reproduction no matter if you’re texting, browsing or gaming.

Enhanced User Experience and Improved Audio
Nokia 105’s ergonomic design and compact shape are specially moulded to feel great in the hand and easily slip into your pocket when you’re on the go.

Battery for Days
Nokia 105 is equipped with an upgraded 1000 mAh battery, 25% larger than its predecessor, providing extended standby time and allowing for uninterrupted conversations from sunrise to sunset.

Whereas, Nokia 106 4G has an increased 1450 mAh battery and delivers hours of talk time. Users can rely on the Nokia 106 4G to stay connected for weeks in standby mode, ensuring their communication needs are met without worrying about frequent recharging.

Entertainment and Functionality
Nokia 105 and 106 4G comes loaded with features designed to keep users entertained and productive. It offers a wireless FM radio, allowing users to listen to their favourite stations without the need for a headset. Additionally, Nokia 106 4G has in-built MP3 player, enabling users to bring their playlists wherever they go.

Built to Last
Nokia understands the importance of durability, and each Nokia phone is meticulously tested to ensure it can withstand the challenges of daily use. The Nokia 105 and Nokia 106 are no exception, built with passion and designed to deliver exceptional performance even in the most demanding situations.

Pricing and Availability
Nokia 105 and Nokia 106 4G will be available in India starting from 18th May priced at Rs. 1299 & Rs. 2199 respectively. The Nokia 105 will be offered in Charcoal, Cyan & Red color whereas Nokia 106 4G would be available in Charcoal & Blue Color.

HONG KONG,19th May 2023- (ACN Newswire) – GroundUp Studios, a forward-thinking, web3-focused music label today announced its Creative Council of professional veterans in the music industry, to accelerate the pace of web3 music and art creation among its community members. As part of the announcement, Derrick Sepnio, Fergus Chow and Jae Chong will become GroundUp Studios’ first wave of award-winning producers to support the label’s community of songwriters and musicians in their career development.

GroundUp Studios’ vision is to shine a light on the impressive pool of musical and artistic talent in the region. It plans to build a comprehensive web3 ecosystem using NFTs as an access pass, to attract NFT art investors; technology enthusiasts; music and art lovers; songwriters; producers; and artists of all disciplines. As members socialize and connect, GroundUp believes that this would inspire new artistic ideas, allowing them to re-imagine the music and art they are capable of creating.

Fast-tracking Web3 Music and Art With The Creative Council

The Creative Council is GroundUp’s longer term plan to bridge undiscovered and independent artists with top-tier industry professionals in music and art. The main responsibilities of Council producers are to connect and socialize with the label’s community members; pass on valuable knowledge about music creation and production; and generally broaden their artistic horizons by sharing great music within the community. As working professionals, the producers will also keep a close eye on emerging talent within the GroundUp community, and eventually find ways to collaborate directly with them.

GroundUp’s trio of producers represent some of the most seasoned and in-demand veterans working currently in Asia. Working closely with GroundUp, the producers will evaluate opportunity gaps in the traditional music industry and develop trailblazing initiatives and projects that will shape the future of digital art and music.

“GroundUp Studios is honored to work with Derrick, Fergus and Jae – arguably three of the best producers in Asia – to re-imagine music and art using web3 technology,” said Adrian Fu, co-founder and Creative Director. “In our view, web3 is not purely about technology; rather, we see it as a new way and attitude towards the creation and monetization of music and art. I look forward to working closely with the producers to evolve music from an artistic, commercial and technological standpoint. This will ultimately deliver unique experiences for lovers of new music and art.”

New Delhi,19th May 2023 The Electronic Industries Association of India (ELCINA) has expressed its warm welcome to the Government of India’s announcement of the updated Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme 2.0 for the IT hardware sector. The revised scheme, which nearly doubles the overall outlay to approximately Rs. 17,000 crore, is a significant step towards bolstering the domestic manufacturing ecosystem.

Under the six-year tenure of the PLI 2.0 scheme, the government aims to attract investments worth Rs. 2,430 crore. ELCINA acknowledges that this initiative addresses a long-standing demand of the industry and commends the government for actively considering and implementing it.

The scheme offers incentives to three categories of companies- Global IT Hardware Companies, Hybrid (Global/Domestic) Companies, and Domestic Companies. Existing PLI 1.0 applicants are also allowed to apply under PLI 2.0.

Additionally, ELCINA welcomes the flexibility and migration provisions of the PLI 2.0 scheme. This feature is especially heartening as it will enable more companies to take advantage of the scheme and invest in the growth of the Indian electronics and IT industry.

Shri Sanjay Agarwal, President of ELCINA, “The PLI Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware will help India emerge as a hub for IT Hardware manufacturing and increase the country’s exports. It will encourage domestic companies to manufacture more IT hardware products in India and promote the development of the IT hardware ecosystem in the country.”

Shri Rajoo Goel, Secretary General of ELCINA, emphasized the positive impact of the PLI 2.0 scheme, stating, “This move will enable more Indian companies to grow and combine design and manufacturing capabilities, thus becoming global brands.” He further highlighted that PLI 2.0 for IT hardware will act as a catalyst for India’s $300 billion electronics manufacturing mission, a vital component of India’s trillion-dollar digital economy goal. The scheme will provide additional incentives for companies to invest in establishing their manufacturing base in India, including original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) incorporating Indian-designed intellectual property into their systems and products.

ELCINA believes that the PLI 2.0 scheme for IT hardware will foster sectoral growth, making India a global hub for IT hardware manufacturing. The association remains committed to working closely with the government to ensure the effective implementation of the scheme and to support the growth and development of the electronics industry in India.

Hyderabad, 19th May 2023: Telangana has become the first state in the country to launch a State Robotics Framework with a vision of “Creating a sustainable robotics ecosystem in Telangana that champions innovation, entrepreneurship, and research & development, positioning the state as a leader in the field of robotics.” This is the sixth framework in line being formulated and launched by the Emerging Technologies Wing of the ITE&C Department. The other frameworks launched were blockchain in 2018 (first in the country), Drones framework – in 2019 ( first in the country), 2020 AI ( first state in the country, NITI Aayog came up with AI for ALL strategy document), the Cloud Adoption Framework in 2021, and in 2022 SpaceTech Framework, the honourable minister launched it in Metaverse, a very unique launch. Thus, Telangana has become a pioneer in embracing emerging technologies and a role model for other states to emulate.

The Framework is a comprehensive roadmap that outlines the state’s vision for the development of the robotics ecosystem in the state and contributing to the growth of the industry in the country. The framework was developed by the Emerging Technologies Wing of the ITE&C Department in collaboration with the All India Robotics Association and inputs from academia, industry experts and stakeholders.

The framework focuses on leveraging robotics technology to drive growth and development across identified four key domains – agriculture, healthcare, industrial automation and consumer robotics. The key points in the framework are that the state will set up a Robo Park equipped with testing facilities, co-working options, and co-production/manufacturing options either at sites owned by the state or in partnership with the industry, academia, and incubators, at competitive rates. Additionally, the state will establish a world-class robotics accelerator to provide startups with the necessary incubation, infrastructure, authorization support, market insights, investor connections, and mentorship support.

In order to achieve the vision of the framework, the government has identified five key pillars: infrastructure access, business enablement, fostering research & innovation, human capital enhancement and responsible deployment. These pillars are critical components of the framework for promoting a vibrant and sustainable robotics industry in the state. To fulfil its vision, the state shall set up a separate body called the Telangana Robotics Innovation Center (TRIC) which shall be responsible for the implementation of this framework and will be the nodal point to implement the Key Pillars of the Framework.

At the occasion, the state also signed MoUs with five organizations, including academic institutions, industry associations, and incubators. They are IIT Hyderabad, ART PARK IISC, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL), AgHub (PJTSAU) and All India Robotics Association (AIRA). Overall, these partnerships aim to enhance the robotics ecosystem in Telangana and promote innovation, research, and growth in the field.

In addition, The state of Telangana is planning to organize a Global Robotics Summit to showcase its growing robotics ecosystem and attract investments from across the world. The summit will provide a platform for startups, researchers, and industry leaders to showcase their work, network with potential partners and investors, and explore new business opportunities. A poster for the summit was also launched at the event.

Launching the framework, Shri. K.T Rama Rao, Hon’ble Minister for IT, MA&UD, and Industries, Government of Telangana said, “As Telangana continues to strive towards technological advancements and development, the state is committed to embracing new technologies and promoting innovation across sectors, ensuring a better tomorrow for all. I’m confident that the identified four key focus domains and five key pillars in the framework will nurture and promote a vibrant and sustainable robotics industry in Telangana”

Shri. Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary ITE&C and Industries, Government of Telangana said, “We are confident that the launch of the framework will catalyze the growth of the robotics industry in Telangana and the country. We believe that the Telangana Robotics Innovation Center (TRIC) that will be set up soon will play a pivotal role in implementing the framework and fostering a sustainable robotics ecosystem in the state. The partnerships established will be our first step towards nurturing the robotics ecosystem in the state.”

Smt. Rama Devi Lanka, Director of Emerging Technologies, said, “ The launch of the Telangana Robotics Framework is a significant milestone in our efforts to foster a robust robotics industry in the state. The ET Wing has been working towards the development and adoption of emerging technologies, including robotics, and we are proud to have developed this framework. We firmly believe that robotics technology has immense potential to transform various sectors and drive growth and development in Telangana.”

By Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

Pune has been witnessing increasing inward migration over the years, thanks largely to the good job prospects, the city’s many high-grade educational institutions, and overall better livability than many other metros. Recent estimates peg Pune’s average annual population growth at 3% to 4%, and as of September 2021, the city’s population was about 3.13 million (31.3 lakhs).

Pune regularly attracts professionals and students from different parts of the country and even from abroad. One of the city’s major USPs is its thriving IT and IT-enabled services sector, as well as a massive manufacturing base, which contribute significantly to the influx of people seeking better career prospects.

The Homebuyer’s Quandary

The immediate difficult decision that new arrivals face is the one about housing. Depending on the sector they have found employment in and at what level, migrants may initially choose to rent if they are unsure about their long-term plans. Renting provides flexibility and requires a comparatively smaller financial commitment in the short term.

Once established in their work, they will invariably consider the next logical step – buying a home in Pune, which offers stability and long-term investment benefits, including capital appreciation. The next question is where buying a home makes more sense.

This is an important decision. It will impact the buyer at various levels beyond the immediate cost of buying a home, including the quality of life they will enjoy, the overall cost of living in the chosen area, and how well their investment will appreciate in value.

A Case for PCMC

In the broadest sense, Pune is divided into two major municipalities – the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). Native Puneris will often choose to live in PMC areas for natural reasons. The Pune Municipal Corporation was established in 1950 when it was formed as a local governing body for Pune. PMC governs the core areas of Pune city.

On the other hand, PCMC in the northwest of Pune city was established relatively later. It came into existence in 1982 when the industrial townships of Pimpri and Chinchwad were merged with nearby areas to form a separate municipal corporation. PMC primarily governs the older areas of Pune city, while PCMC governs the younger industrial and residential hub of PCMC.

This is important background for newly aspiring homebuyers to consider while choosing between the two regions. One obvious reason is that most people prefer to live close to their places of work. But it is also a question of whether a ‘younger’ area offers more benefits than an ‘older’ area. Without a doubt, the answer, in this case, is yes. Let’s examine why.

Superior Lifestyle Quotient

Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation offers several advantages over its older sibling, and for good reasons:

Cost of Living: PCMC generally offers a lower living cost than PMC. Not only because the housing prices and rentals are more affordable but also because PCMC has invested much more in infrastructure. Yes, there is a connection, which is my next point.

Transit Infrastructure: PCMC’s superior infrastructure investments have resulted in well-planned roads and better connectivity. Faster commutes to and from work result in significant household savings and fewer medical expenses for health problems caused by long commutes in polluted air. Which also brings me to my next point.

Less Traffic Congestion: PCMC witnesses far less traffic congestion than Pune’s core areas. The well-planned road networks, including the Pune-Mumbai Expressway and Pune-Nashik Highway, provide a smoother commuting experience. The Pune Metro in PCMC further enhances the transportation infrastructure and reduces road congestion.

Master-planned Development: In PCMC, all development is based on a master plan, providing an important related advantage. The well-thought-out manner in which residential complexes, commercial cent res, and entertainment hubs complement each other in PCMC results in a comfortable and convenient lifestyle for its citizens.
PCMC’s dedicated industrial zones and residential areas separate industrial activities from residential pockets, resulting in a more organized and livable environment.

PCMC has a reliable water supply and electricity distribution system. Constant investments are being made into uninterrupted water supply and reliable power infrastructure to enhance residents’ overall quality of life. The region also has ample green spaces, parks, and recreational facilities for residents.

Areas like Pimpri Chinchwad Science Park, Auto Cluster Exhibition Center, and various sports complexes provide outdoor and leisure opportunities. In fact, PCMC is also textbook case of commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability because of the focus on creating a sustainable and inclusive environment by promoting green spaces, cycling tracks, and pedestrian-friendly zones.

Education: PCMC is home to renowned educational institutions across various streams, including engineering, management, and medicine. These institutions ensure access to quality education and provide a steady funnel of high-grade workforce to PCMC’s various employment hubs.

Employment Opportunities: PCMC is a major industrial and employment hub, hosting numerous manufacturing units, IT parks, and business cent res. These industries provide countless job opportunities at all levels and contribute to the region’s thriving economy.

Let me elaborate on this point since it deserves to be highlighted.

Employment Mecca

PCMC is home to several prominent Infotech parks and IT hubs, making it Pune’s most definitive IT and business destination. The region’s IT/ITeS repertoire includes the Rajiv Gandhi IT Park in Hinjewadi, which houses numerous IT and software companies, including multinational corporations, startups, and service providers.

The International Tech Park, also located in Hinjewadi, accommodates a wide range of IT and software companies who choose it for its state-of-the-art infrastructure, office spaces, and facilities.

The MIDC IT Park in Bhosari is an industrial area that includes IT and software companies alongside other industries. Its massive ecosystem houses multiple sectors, including IT, manufacturing, and engineering.

On the industrial manufacturing side, the MIDC (Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation) belt in PCMC comprises multiple industrial zones and areas, including the Pimpri-Chinchwad Industrial Area, Chinchwad Gaon Industrial Area, Bhosari Industrial Area, Chakan Industrial Area, and Talegaon Industrial Area.

These areas are spread across different parts of PCMC and accommodate various industries, including manufacturing, engineering, automotive, pharmaceuticals, IT, and more. The job opportunities are limitless.

Taking a Smart Homebuying Call

All of the above is just the tip of the iceberg for homebuyers. Based on its track record for good civic governance and superior infrastructure, PCMC has been selected as a Smart City under the Smart Cities Mission.

This provides a clear road map of PCMC’s future potential since the Smart City tag entails the implementation of various smart and sustainable initiatives, including using technology for efficient governance, improved infrastructure, and enhanced quality of life for residents.

Undoubtedly, individual preferences on where to buy a home vary, and many people still prefer living in the core areas of Pune for various reasons. However, new arrivals to the city have a clear advantage – they have no preconceptions or cultural biases. Thus, they are well-placed to make informed, logical choices on where they should buy their homes.

Mumbai,19th May 2023 Mangoes have always been a summer staple in India, but this year, the country’s love affair with the fruit is taking on a new dimension. As consumers increasingly turn to online platforms for their grocery needs, mangoes are emerging as a popular item on Q-commerce apps. Leading 10-Min grocery delivery service Zepto has seen a massive uptake among mango lovers this year with over INR 25 crore worth of the fruit being sold in just the month of April. And the demand continues to be ripe in May as well.

As per Zepto’s data, here are some insights on how consumers are increasingly showing their affinity towards mangoes this season:

Sales reaching new heights

Temperatures are soaring and so are Indians’ cravings for mangoes – as many as INR 60 lakh worth of Mangoes were sold on a single day
Raw mangoes are an Indian kitchen staple, especially in summer. Be it making a big batch of achaar (pickle) to last throughout the year or Kairi Panna (Raw Mango juice) to beat the heat, the sour fruit has seen increasing demand on Zepto with a total of INR 25 lakh worth of raw mangoes sold so far

Different varieties catering to diverse taste buds:

Alphonso mangoes from Ratnagiri have the most admirers in the markets of Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi
Dominant in the Western markets, Alphonso mangoes were the most sold variant with a 30% share of total Mango sales on Zepto. Bainganpalli, which is produced in Andhra Pradesh, was sold widely in the southern cities with 25% of sales, while Kesar was the third most in-demand category of Mangoes at 15%
Fresh mango juice is a refreshing beverage everyone loves to consume in summer. Bainganpalli, the most common variety used to make mango juice, has also been in high demand on Zepto

Zepto sold most varieties of Mango online locally sourced from various parts of India from over 1,000 farmers

Top sources for each variety of mangoes are: Ratnagiri and Devgad for Alphonsoes; Jalna & Junagarh for Kesar mangoes Anantapur, Chittor, Kolhapur for the Badami variety Pallakad for Lalbagh, Krishnagiri, Ramnagar for Totapuri); Malihabad, Sahrangpur, Sitapur, Meerut for Dasheri; Banaras, Balrampur for Chausa and Barasaat for Malda
Zepto fulfills its commitment to quality by offering only carbide-free, naturally ripened mangoes. Each variety is accompanied by a certification on the app to ensure transparency

Srinibas Swain, Senior Vice President and Business Head for Zepto’s Fresh Category said, “Fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the fastest-growing and critical categories on Zepto, covering over 50% of shopper baskets. The soaring sales of mangoes and other seasonal fruits and veggies throughout the year are a testament to the immense levels of trust we’ve been able to build in one of the most sensitive grocery categories in India. We are proud to build one of India’s richest and most sustainable FnV supply-chain in partnership with our farmer community.”

With a dedicated section on the app, customers can choose from a wide variety of mangoes – from the fragrant and sweet Alphonso to the tangy Totapuri.

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India,19th May 2023In view of the current constantly evolving market scenario, India’s leading integrated human resource solutions organization, Genius Consultants Ltd. conducted a survey to evaluate trends predicted in Hiring, Compensation and Attrition for the fiscal year 2023-24.

77% of India Inc. predicts hiring trends to comprise of both replacement hiring and new position hiring in FY 2023-24. The South and West of India will predictively have maximum hiring ratios in this financial year, as specified by 33.30% of participants. The prime focus for experience levels during hiring is agreed by 36.06% to be 4 to 7 years on an average. Merely 9% of individuals deem that employees with 13 years and above experience are top candidates while hiring.

According to this research survey, a majority of 70% participants believe that equal hiring of male and female candidates will be preferred by their organization. 27% maintain that male candidates will be chosen over female and 3% vice versa. The projected increase in manpower strength has been noted to be 15% and above by 36.20% participants. On the contrary, 27.30% partakers are of the opinion that there will be no increase in the same.

Maximum of survey contributors hold that job portals will be the most prioritized candidate sourcing avenue while hiring this year. This is backed by AI technology-based apps and websites, campus hiring and consultants. Correspondingly, candidates who hold an MBA degree will be prioritized by the companies of 41.50% survey participants. IT, Electrical and automation engineering candidates follow next in order.

The survey findings reveal lower attrition rates. 50% of participants indicated that the anticipated level of attrition for their organization for this year would be less than 5%, whilst 40% consider it to be between 5-10%. However, it is noted that 84% of participants agreed on junior employees being the most susceptible to attrition and a mere 11% of senior employees encounter the same.

The widespread survey also observed that 63.60% individuals regard background verification checks for filling up key positions in their organization as extremely crucial, and the remaining 36.40% suggested that it is of moderate importance. The maximum attrition ratio is foreseeable in South India by 44.40% individuals, while 22.20% project North and West zones, respectively to have these highest ratios. Similarly, barely 11.20% participants suppose the East of the country will have ultimate ratios.

Another key aspect reflected in the survey is based on the levels of employees who will experience higher increment ranges for their organization. 57.80% of people are of the view that mid-level employees will benefit the most with increments. On the other hand, only 21.10% are convinced that senior and junior level employees will receive significant increments.

For FY 23-34, the projected range of increment for one’s company is believed by 54.50% of participants to be between 5-7%. The West of India will witness the highest increment ratio, as expected by 36.40% people. This will be followed by the South, North and East zones.

Commenting on the survey, Mr. R P Yadav, Chairman and Managing Director, Genius Consultants Ltd said, “Substantial changes in work cultures have played a major role in lowering attrition rates. This implies that factors such as flexible working hours, standard increments, appreciation of work and flat organizational structures have contributed majorly to employee retention. The overall market condition is favorable and as a result, the Indian job market will remarkably improve as organizations strive for the most qualified candidates.”

The survey was floated from 12th March to 15th April 2023. Its Statistics are based on the feedback received from all sectors through Direct Mails to all Clients & Senior Dignitaries, Google Free Sites (Survey Monkey, Type form, Google forms, etc.) and LinkedIn Direct Messaging to Senior Dignitaries & CXO Levels of Organizations.

Vidisha,19th May 2023 Re-emphasizing the need to build a culture of safe riding habits in India, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) took forward its National Road Safety Awareness Campaign in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh.

Road Safety is a global priority for Honda. Through this three-day camp at Government Girls College in Vidisha, HMSI spread awareness on safe riding practices to more than 2500 college students and staff members. HMSI’s road safety instructors utilized age-appropriate road safety learning programs to enhance the retention of road safety awareness among all.

Speaking on HMSI’s commitment towards building a collision-free India, Mr. Vinay Dhingra – Senior Director, HR, Admin, IT & Corporate Affairs, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India said, “Road safety education is essential for developing a road safety mindset. HMSI has been conducting a Road safety awareness campaign to develop more responsible road users across the country. With this campaign, we aim to cultivate the right road safety habits amongst the new and upcoming riders as well as help them in understanding the importance of using the roads safely.”

HMSI’s National Road Safety Awareness program made learning fun yet scientific through:

1. SCIENTIFICALLY DEVISED LEARNING MODULE: Honda’s skilled instructors set the foundation with theory sessions on road signs & markings, driver’s duties on road, riding gear & posture explanation and safe riding etiquettes.

2. PRACTICAL LEARNING: A special training activity on Honda’s virtual riding simulator was executed for all to experience over 100 possible dangers on road before actual riding.

3. INTERACTIVE SESSION: Participants were given danger prediction training known as Kiken Yosoku Training (KYT) which helps in enhancing rider/driver’s sensitivity to danger and ensures safe driving behaviour on roads.

4. EXISTING DRIVERS HONING RIDING SKILLS: Students & school staff members who are already existing riders tested & honed their riding skills through slow riding activities and riding on narrow planks.

5. LEARNING IN A FUN WAY: To ensure that the young students could learn more about road safety, Honda also conducted fun educational activities like road safety games and quizzes on daily basis.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s CSR Commitment towards Road Safety:

For Honda globally, road safety comes first. As announced in April 2021, “Honda will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050”. Fulfilling its corporate social responsibility (CSR), HMSI has been promoting road safety in India since its start in 2001. Working towards the realization of Honda’s global safety vision, today HMSI’s road safety awareness initiative has already spread to more than 50 lac Indians. Its team of skilled safety instructors conducts daily programs at its 10 adopted traffic parks across India and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC).

Not only this, all of HMSI’s 1000+ dealerships across India spread road safety awareness. HMSI’s proprietary virtual riding simulator increases the risk-prediction ability of riders; while new customers too are given predelivery safety advice (PDSA) before they start riding at every dealership across India.

Additionally, to ensure that learning does not stop in the new normal, HMSI started the digital road safety education initiative – Honda Road Safety E-Gurukul. Since its start in May’20, this initiative has sensitized more than 8 Lac Indians on the importance of being aware & responsible road users.

Mumbai,19th May 2023 – BPCL, a leading player in the energy industry, has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Aspen Technology Inc., USA. This partnership aims to integrate Aspen Tech’s process simulation solution with BPCL’s BPMARRK® software, enabling the generation of complete assay data within a fraction of the time it would traditionally take using laboratory methods. Assay, a comprehensive chemical analysis of crude oil, plays a vital role in predicting the volume and quality of refined products resulting from refining processes.

The groundbreaking BPMARRK® technology predicts a detailed Crude Oil Assay for any unknown crude oil within an impressive timeframe of 2 to 5 minutes, utilizing just four physical parameters as input. By providing comprehensive crude characteristics, the tool empowers refiners to anticipate the volume and quality of refined products with utmost accuracy.

During the MOU signing event, BPCL also unveiled K Model®, an innovative web-based software that enables swift and precise prediction of crude oil blend compatibility and optimization for any number of crude oils within minutes. K Model® empowers refiners to select the most suitable crude oil blend based on economics, availability, and processing feasibility in real-time. This allows for simultaneous evaluation of multiple blend options, enabling optimal decision-making.

Mr. Sanjay Khanna, Director (Refineries), BPCL, delivered a remote address to the attending audience. In his speech, he stated that, “Refiners often process mix of crude oils, for which accurate assay is not available on real-time basis. Variations in crude quality as well as lack of reliable crude assay information makes the task of real-time optimization extremely challenging if not impossible. BPMARRK® generates the entire assay within one hour as compared to several weeks through conventional laboratory methods, and it predicts detailed Crude Oil Assay with more than 500 data information of any unknown crude oil within 2-5 minutes making it extremely useful for real-time applications.”

Further, Dr. Ravi Kumar V., Head (R&D), BPCL said, “BPMARRK® will benefit our community of users with faster and more accurate decision-making for the characterization of crudes and maximize the refinery profitability.”

Sunil Patil, Senior Director, Solution Consulting at AspenTech, said: “AspenTech is pleased to expand its long-standing partnership with BPCL to ensure operational excellence and generate sustainability advances from more informed feedstock selections and value additions to its accurate processing in crude distillation units. In addition, the integrated solution will enable real-time decisions in response to changing operating conditions.”

Combining the power of BPMARRK® with Aspen Technology’s digital twin models, this collaboration is set to revolutionize crude oil sourcing and real-time optimization. The integrated solution can be seamlessly implemented in any refinery configuration, empowering real-time applications across the industry.

K Model® – another major initiative from BPCL – brings unique capabilities in predicting crude oil blend compatibility, thereby significantly impacting profit margins for refiners dealing with large crude mix parcels. Refiners processing mix parcels comprising 4 to 10 crude oils from different sources will find K Model® indispensable, as it allows for the selection of crude mix parcels with more constituents, ultimately increasing overall profitability.

BPCL remains committed to adopting cutting-edge technology solutions to enhance refinery operations, ensuring optimal performance, profitability, and environmental responsibility. The integration of K Model® and BPMARRK® digital twin models in Aspen online interfaces marks a transformative milestone in crude oil sourcing and real-time optimization.