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Experts at 5th India IVF Summit and Awards Chart Course for Accessible and Ethical Fertility Care

New Delhi, July 29, 2024: Experts at the 5th India IVF Summit and Awards, organized by the Integrated Health and Wellbeing (IHW) Council and Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction (ISAR), explored the current dynamics of the IVF sector. Held on World IVF Day, the summit concluded with insightful discussions and solutions on innovation, affordability, and accessibility of fertility treatments. Featuring contributions from experts in the medical fraternity, law, and finance, the summit focused on making treatments more economical and ethical to create an equitable ecosystem in the IVF segment of healthcare. It also highlighted that while the current framework for the IVF sector has made strides, the need for enhanced policy support to ensure accessibility of IVF treatments to all is vital.

The summit featured IVF veterans such as Dr. Abha Majumdar (Director of the IVF Department, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital), Dr. KD Nayar (Chief Consultant of Infertility, Akanksha IVF), and industry leader Dr. BK Rana (CEO of Quality and Accreditation Institute), who deliberated on the critical aspects of infertility treatment in India.

Mrs. Sujaya Krishnan, Former Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt of India, remarked that following a code of practice and providing accurate information to help couples access the best treatment is crucial. She emphasized that using technologies while adhering to human values and ethics is the best way forward.

Dr. Ameet Patki, President, ISAR (Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction), stated, “In the last 47 years, fertility specialists have toiled day and night to ensure that couples get the joy of having a baby. Today we celebrate the world IVF Day to acknowledge such organisations, individuals who have excelled in their work. It is very important that we identify those organisations and individuals who are increasing awareness of infertility and offering infertility treatments and options in every corner of India”

Highlighting the importance of affordability in fertility treatments, Mr. Kamal Narayan, CEO, IHW Council, asserted that “As we look ahead, it is essential to continue prioritizing ethical practices and patient-centric approaches. With the collaborative efforts of the government, healthcare providers, and financial institutions, we can make significant strides towards making IVF treatments more affordable and accessible to all. Together, we can create a supportive and inclusive healthcare ecosystem that addresses the needs of every individual seeking fertility care.”

Mr. Sakthi Prasad Menon, Executive Vice President, FIBE, stated, “We’re committed to making the IVF process seamless and stress-free for individuals and couples. One way we’re achieving this is by providing financial support and guidance, helping to alleviate the emotional and economic burdens often associated with fertility treatment. By addressing the financial aspect, we’re empowering people to focus on their journey to parenthood with confidence and hope.”

Key themes discussed in the sessions included recent innovations and breakthroughs in IVF, a patient-centric approach to fertility treatments, and collaboration in IVF coverage, impact, and future directions.

The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions to the field of IVF. Dr. Mirudhubashini Govindarajan was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Reproductive Medicine for her over 42 years of exemplary service in fertility care and women’s health.

Supported by Bharat Serums & Vaccines Pvt. Ltd., Fibe India, and Samarth Lifesciences, the summit was a success, bringing together participants from various industries under one roof to address critical issues and pave the way for improved accessibility and acceptance of fertility treatments across India.

Bengaluru Retail Summit 2024: Unveiling the Future of Retail

Jul 26, 2024 by Mansi 0 Comments #Bengaluru Retail Summit, #Bengaluru Retail Summit 2024, #bigbasket, #Brigade Group, #Britannia Industries Ltd, #Britannia Industries Ltd V Muhammad Ali - CEO, #BRS, #CEO, #CEO & Executive Director, #Co-Founder & CEO, #Consulting Business Leader for Retail, #CPG, #Drolls India Pvt Ltd Chandru Kalro, #EasyBuy, #Enabling Growth, #Enabling Growth” & “Mastering the Market: Transforming Insights into Growth Opportunities, #Ganesan V P, #Hari Menon, #Healux International Pvt. Ltd Deepak Singh - Director & CEO Saturo Technologies Sumit Jasoria, #i – TEK RFID Hari Menon - Co-founder & CEO - Big Basket Dr Shashank Sinha, #IBM, #Italian Colony David R Stanley – Founder & Managing Director, #Johnson Verghese - Managing Director - Fossil Group India Karan Mehta - CEO, #Jt Managing Director, #Karan Mehta, #Kumar Rajagopalan, #Landmark Group, #Landmark Group Rajneet Kohli - CEO & ED, #Managing Director, #MD & CEO, #NEWME, #Nirupa Shankar, #Pharma & LS Industries – India South Asia, #Prestige Group Manohar Chatlani - MD Retail India Pvt Ltd, #RAI, #Rajneet Kohli, #Retail, #Retail Sector, #Retail Technology: Powering Business, #Retailers Association of India (RAI), #Revolutionize Retail with AI Everywhere, #Sheraton Grand Bangalore, #Soch Apparels Pvt Ltd Subhash Chandra - MD Sangeetha Mobiles Mrunmay Mehta - CEO, #Strategies for Retail Success: Navigating a Constantly Evolving Market”, #Tech Adoption: Integrating Digital Innovations with Physical Presence, #thought leaders, #Transportation, #Travel, #TTK Prestige Chintan Mehta – Founder, #WOW Skin Science Ashim Ashok Patel

Bengaluru, July 24th, 2024: The Retailers Association of India (RAI) successfully held the second edition of the Bengaluru Retail Summit, a premier event that brought together the brightest minds and influential leaders from the retail industry. Held at the Sheraton Grand Bangalore, the summit emerged as a melting pot of transformative ideas, emerging trends, and invaluable networking opportunities. Against the vibrant backdrop of Bengaluru’s retail culture, it served as a pivotal platform for retailers and brands to engage in impactful discussions, collectively shaping the future of retail in India.

Speaking about the summit, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, Retailers Association of India (RAI), said, “India’s retail sector stands at the cusp of profound transformation. The dynamic discussions on strategies for retail success, the seamless integration of digital innovations, and the latest retail ideas have highlighted how industry leaders are navigating this constantly evolving market. Our focus on mastering the market and innovating is diverse. With a burgeoning middle class, expanding digital infrastructure, and strategic government initiatives, we anticipate a dynamic era of growth and innovation. These advancements position the retail sector as a pivotal driver of economic vitality and consumer empowerment in the years ahead.”

Highlights of the Bengaluru Retail Summit 2024 by RAI was the keynote address on ‘Revolutionize Retail with AI Everywhere’ by Ganesan V P, Consulting Business Leader for Retail, CPG, Travel, Transportation, Pharma & LS Industries – India South Asia, IBM.

The summit also hosted two stimulating Fireside Chats with Rajneet Kohli, CEO & Executive Director, Britannia Industries Ltd, and with Nirupa Shankar, Jt Managing Director, Brigade Group.

Bengaluru Retail Summit 2024 Unveiling the Future of Retail 1

Expressing delight at the second edition of BRS, Rajneet Kohli, CEO & Executive Director, Britannia Industries Ltd said, “The future of retail lies in seamlessly blending technology with the human touch. Using data-driven insights to understand consumer preferences and deliver tailored experiences will drive growth and foster deeper customer loyalty.”

Hari Menon, Co-Founder & CEO, Bigbasket said, “The retail industry is at a pivotal point where digital transformation is crucial. Integrating online and offline channels is essential to meet evolving consumer demands. Innovation in logistics and personalized services will be the key drivers of future retail success.”

Karan Mehta, CEO, Easybuy, Landmark Group said, “Understanding and responding to diverse customer needs is more important than ever. By harnessing advanced analytics and staying ahead of emerging trends, retailers can create personalized and engaging shopping experiences, ensuring sustained growth and competitiveness.”

The summit witnessed captivating discussions on topics such asStrategies for Retail Success: Navigating a Constantly Evolving Market” “Tech Adoption: Integrating Digital Innovations with Physical Presence” “Retail Technology: Powering Business, Enabling Growth” & “Mastering the Market: Transforming Insights into Growth Opportunities.”

industry leaders speaking at the summit included:

Johnson Verghese – Managing Director – Fossil Group India

Karan Mehta – CEO, Landmark Group

Rajneet Kohli – CEO & ED, Britannia Industries Ltd

V Muhammad Ali – CEO, Retail, Prestige Group

Manohar Chatlani – MD Retail India Pvt Ltd, Soch Apparels Pvt Ltd

Subhash Chandra – MD Sangeetha Mobiles

Mrunmay Mehta – CEO, WOW Skin Science

Ashim Ashok Patel, MD & CEO, i – TEK RFID

Hari Menon – Co-founder & CEO – Big Basket

Dr Shashank Sinha, CEO, Drolls India Pvt Ltd

Chandru Kalro, Managing Director, TTK Prestige

Chintan Mehta – Founder, Italian Colony

David R Stanley – Founder & Managing Director, Healux International Pvt. Ltd

Deepak Singh – Director & CEO Saturo Technologies

Sumit Jasoria, Co-Founder & CEO, NEWME

These thought leaders shared their insights on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities within the retail sector, fostering a rich environment of knowledge exchange and collaboration. The event’s successful execution has set a benchmark for industry gatherings, reaffirming Bengaluru’s status as a central hub for retail excellence.

About RAI:

Retailers Association of India (RAI) is the unified voice of Indian retailers. RAI works with all the stakeholders for creating the right environment for the growth of the modern retail industry in India. It is a strong advocate for retailing in India and works with all levels of government and stakeholders to support employment growth and career opportunities in retail, promote and sustain retail investments in communities from coast to coast, and enhance consumer choice and industry competitiveness.

Jambo Expands to Solana - 5

Jambo Expands to Solana with Tether to Bring Blockchain Mobile Technology to Emerging Markets

Lagos, July 17, 2024 – Today, Jambo, the largest web3 mobile infrastructure bringing emerging markets on-chain, announced that it’s expanding to the Solana blockchain along with Tether to offer blockchain-enabled financial and educational technologies that cater to emerging markets.

Central to this is the JamboPhone, a $99 web3 smartphone that has been powerful in onboarding all types of users on-chain in a mobile-first way. Combined with the Solana blockchain’s high throughput capabilities and Tether’s dominant stablecoin, USDT, access to web3 financial and educational products will be democratized to those who need them most in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Introducing the JamboPhone

Available in over 120 countries, the JamboPhone is targeted towards Gen Z consumers in emerging markets as their portal to the best digital products and opportunities globally. Users can engage with the global economy by utilizing the preloaded Jambo Ecosystem applications featuring DeFi, gaming, and web3 infrastructure applications. The JamboPhone aims to address some of the most challenging issues faced by emerging markets, such as a large unbanked population and limited access to smartphones. Users can purchase the JamboPhone with Solana Pay on JamboPhone.xyz.

The Jambo App: Empowering Users

The smartphone is equipped with the JamboApp, a comprehensive web3 platform that offers users a range of services including decentralized finance, gaming, and educational content, all designed with the emerging market user in mind. The JamboApp includes the JamboWallet, a non-custodial multichain wallet which includes support for Solana tokens and USDT. Jambo will be giving out rewards primarily in USDT, leveraging its broad acceptance and stability in emerging markets. Users will be able to complete quests sponsored by Jambo and Jambo ecosystem partners, ranging from educational initiatives to promotional tasks, with rewards now distributed primarily using SPL USDT. This initiative underscores Jambo, Solana, and Tether’s role as pioneers in bridging the digital divide, aiming to democratize access to digital financial tools and providing users with earning opportunities in emerging markets.

Leveraging Local Solana Communities

Additionally, Jambo will engage local Superteams to accelerate web3 adoption. Superteam is a global community of web3 builders who are passionate about Solana. Their mission is to help web3 talent learn, earn, and connect with the Solana ecosystem. These teams, composed of local experts and enthusiasts, will play a pivotal role in educating communities, fostering local development, and driving grassroots initiatives that ensure sustainable growth within the web3 ecosystem.

“Back when I was building earn.com in 2017, our vision was to build a product ‘where there’s a phone, there’s a job.’ Alice, James, and the Jambo team have realized that vision by developing web3 mobile infrastructure bringing financial access to emerging markets,” said Lily Liu, President of the Solana Foundation. “Jambo offers a gateway to web3 that is accessible to nearly anyone in the world, while Solana enables financial access for nearly anyone with an internet connection. Together, we are committed to making self-custody, financial opportunity, and educational resources accessible to millions.”

Why Emerging Markets

Emerging markets face their own unique set of economic challenges that Solana and Tether can address with their blockchain and stablecoin solutions. In emerging markets, the use of USDT (Tether) significantly surpasses that of other stablecoins, with over 34.2 million unique wallets utilizing USDT as of April 2024. This broad user base highlights the widespread trust and adoption of Tether in these regions. With Jambo’s game-changing smartphone, Solana’s fast transaction processing, low transaction fees, and Tether’s robust and widely-used stablecoin, users now have access to stablecoin and crypto payment rails, alternative banking access, and global earnings opportunities.

“We want to bring emerging markets on-chain,” said James Zhang, Co-founder of Jambo. “Bringing Jambo to Solana and Tether allows us to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses the unique needs of these regions.”

“Emerging markets stand out as promising grounds for financial inclusion. Their demand for tools like USDT fuels our dedication to shaping a brighter financial future for users in these regions.” said Paolo Arodino, CEO, Tether. “By providing affordable access to web3 technologies through the JamboPhone and leveraging the power of the Solana blockchain, Jambo is empowering users in these regions with the tools they need to participate in the global digital economy. The integration of SPL USDT as a reward mechanism further strengthens this initiative, offering users a stable and secure digital asset.”

Learn more about the latest from Jambo on X and purchase your JamboPhone at JamboPhone.xyz. Join the Jambo Community and lead web3 adoption with us on Telegram.

Dhyan Foundation to open new Dhyan Center on Sunday At Banjara Hills to teach free Yoga

Dhyan Foundation is the only Indian non-profit body to work with Border Security Forces (BSF) to rehabilitate cattle

Ashwini Guruji under whose guidance the classes delivered lectures at prestigious institutions like IIM, Bangalore, Oxford University, London etc.

Hyderabad, June 20, 2024.Dhyan Foundation, a volunteer-driven social organisation is to open a New Dhyan Center in Banjara Hills for Free Yoga Training. It will be the state-of-the-art Yoga Studio. It will be formally opened on Sunday by its volunteers.

Dhyan Foundation works for the welfare of animals, particularly the Indian sacred animal cow. It is the only organisation working with the Border Security Force (BSF) to rehabilitate cattle rescued from the Indo-Bangladesh border.

Disclosing this in a press note issued in Hyderabad, the Dhyan Foundation spokesperson said the centre which is coming up in the centre of the city at Banjara Hills is its place and can accommodate up to 200 people. It will teach every aspect of Yoga by volunteers who are students, homemakers, lawyers, journalists, doctors, and CEOs under the guidance of Ashwini Guruji of Dhyan Ashram.

Soon it will run a few special sessions of Secrets from Sanatan Kriya for eternal youth & glow and a brilliant mind, under the guidance of *Ashwini Guru ji* of Dhyan Ashram.

FILE PIC DHYAN CENTRE

Ashwini Guruji is an embodiment of the gyan of the Vedas. He follows the Guru-Shishya parampara in its totality, He believes yoga is a sadhana and not a business. The foundation is committed to the cause of spreading awareness about the authentic path of yoga, as laid down by Sage Patanjali 4,500 years ago. Be it conducting lectures at various prestigious institutions like IIM, Bangalore, Oxford University, and London, authoring masterpieces on esoteric subjects (including the thesis on anti-ageing, Sanatan Kriya – The Ageless Dimension) or taking seekers from across ages on spiritual sojourns to places of importance in the Vedic culture – He has continuously enlightened us about our history.

From revealing to us the deep secrets hidden under the Earth at the Patal Bhuvaneshwari Caves, interpreting the ancient Vedic symbolism of the Rollright stones in the UK, to uncovering astounding revelations of the Sigiriya rock in Sri Lanka, Ashwini Guruji has enlightened us about the Vedic relevance of each of these places.

Formed in 2002 to share and spread the gyan of the original and pristine form of yog, Dhyan Foundation, today is a global phenomenon with centres all across the world where Sanatan Kriya (Patanjali Ashtang Yog in its original, undiluted form) sessions are conducted free of cost as per the ancient Guru-Shishya Parampara. Thousands across the globe have benefited physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually from the practice of Sanatan Kriya.

Dhyan Foundation runs several animal welfare programmes for dogs, birds, cows, monkeys and many other animals. Today, it has over 47 shelters and gaushalas and we provide aid, care, food and shelter to over 70,000 animals.

Those interested in training in Yoga free of cost may please reach out to Dhyan Foundation at Road no 10 Banjara Hills Hyderabad 500034, Google location pin https://maps.app.goo.gl/tr6BEkzMCgFvgDys5?g_st=iw. For more information, please drop in at 8465005989, 9393468680. Please visit the Dhyan Foundation website Www.dhyanfoundation.com

Marvell Collaborates With United Way Bengaluru‘s’Rural Rising’ Initiative towards Sustainable Development in Bagepalli taluk of Chikkaballapura District, Karnataka

Bengaluru, June 18, 2024: Marvell, in collaboration with NGO partner United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), is driving an impactful intervention, ‘Rural Rising’, an integrated rural development program, in the Chikkaballapura District of Karnataka. The program is designed to meet the Mission Anthodya and Human Development Index (HDI) indicators, validated through an in-depth needs assessment in collaboration with local authorities and community members.

This intervention addresses fundamental needs across key thematic areas, including education, health and well-being, safe drinking water, and renewable energy in the Guluru Gram Panchayat.

Marvel - United Way Bengaluru Rural Rising 2

Under the initiative, an ambulance is provided to Bagepalli Taluk Govt. Hospital, which caters to a catchment population of 1,20,000+ people and lacked a dedicated ambulance. Two new Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) have been constructed alongside the setting up of kitchen gardens and provisioning of Teaching and Learning Materials (TLMs) in the AWCs. Based on the need, a government school has been strengthened through refurbishment support, making the environment conducive to learning.

To address the need for a functional toilet facility, a new toilet has been constructed and an incinerator has been provided to a government school. Additionally, the initiative focuses on the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) component, particularly for raising awareness about menstrual health and hygiene among female students. Sanitary napkins have been distributed in five schools.

To ensure the availability of safe drinking water, three water purifier units have been installed in Anjinapura and Laxman Thanda villages, and at a government school, benefiting numerous households and students. In commitment to renewable energy, 150 solar streetlights have been successfully installed at strategic locations across the gram panchayat.

The intervention has reached over 5,285 direct beneficiaries and numerous indirect beneficiaries.

Today marked a significant day as key stakeholders involved in the initiative came together to officially announce the launch of the intervention. Key delegates present included Mr. Navin Bishnoi, Marvell India Country Manager, Ms. Bharathi Kanuj, Marvell India CSR Head and Mr. Ganesh Karnatakam, Marvell India Finance Controller, Sriram Ananthanarayanan UWBe Director or Projects, Varun Kumar UWBe Corporate Relations, Pravin Kumar UWBe Rural Projects Lead.

“Convergence and collaboration are key elements for achieving lasting effects. The Rural Rising initiative has demonstrated the power of bringing together Gram Panchayat, NGO, corporate and community members towards a shared goal,”, said, Mr. Navin Bishnoi, Marvell India Country Manager.

“Prioritising the need to invest in rural development, the Rural Rising program intends to build self-sustainable rural communities with assured access to quality education, better health and well-being, safe drinking water, and a clean environment. We are grateful to our CSR partner, Marvell, and the local community for supporting us since the inception of the program at Guluru Gram Panchayat.“, said, Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, of United Way Bengaluru.

About United Way Bengaluru (UWBe)

UWBe is an NGO focused on social issues that seek immediate and long-term attention. United Way Bengaluru marked a significant milestone this year as it completed its 15-year journey. As a part of the global network, United Way Worldwide, the largest network of non-profit organizations with 1,100 chapters in 37 countries, United Way Bengaluru carries a global image with a ‘local heart’ committed to creating meaningful change in the lives of the local communities. True to the organization’s mission “To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world”, UWBe catalyzes unified efforts from corporates, civic bodies, and citizen associations to bring about visible and sustainable change in the lives of the communities. The organization works in four key areas – environment, education, healthcare, and rural development.

From India to the World: Hanooman India’s largest Groundbreaking GenAI Platform Now Live in 98 Languages

Bengaluru May 10th, 2024: SML India and 3AI Holding Limited, today announced the launch of *‘Hanooman’, India’s homegrown largest multilingual and most affordable GenAI platform in 98 global languages, including 12 Indian languages, to build a GenAI ecosystem for India by leveraging the country’s diverse linguistic and cultural heritage.

Hanooman India’s largest Groundbreaking GenAI Platform Now Live in 98 Languages! 2

Derived from the name of Lord Hanuman, it symbolizes the platform’s commitment to using the power of GenAI for the greater good. Hanooman, with all his knowledge, power, and strength always served Ram loyally and we want Hanooman to bring the same GenAI power to humanity. Hanooman has been developed by SML India in partnership with 3AI Holding. The platform aims to reach 200 million users within its first year of launch.

As part of the launch, SML India announced its partnership with leading technology stalwarts and innovators like HP, NASSCOM, and Yotta. Through the partnership, Yotta will provide GPU cloud infrastructure to bolster SML India’s operations. Additionally, SML India’s partnership with NASSCOM is aimed at several initiatives, like supporting AI startups, fostering fintech innovation, engaging with 3000 colleges, and participating in research programs.

The company has also collaborated with the Government of Telangana and the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), to facilitate seamless translation between English and Telugu, enhancing accessibility and understanding of crucial documents like court orders.

These strategic partnerships with leading tech players and government bodies signify a monumental leap forward in India’s GenAI landscape, and underscoring Hanooman’s capabilities and commitment to delivering innovative solutions to businesses and individuals alike.

The 12 Indian languages that the web and app are currently available in include Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Kannada, Odia, Punjabi, Assamese, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Sindhi. Additionally, Hanooman will support a host of global languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, Korean, and 80 other languages worldwide.

Hanooman India’s largest Groundbreaking GenAI Platform Now Live in 98 Languages! 1

Powered by 3AI Holding’s cutting-edge technology, it combines specialized LLMs built with a dynamic integration synthesis matrix to deliver clear, adaptive insights and transform complex data into actionable intelligence effortlessly. It is presently accessible in its free version, with the premium subscription plan to be launched later this year. Along with its exceptional translation capabilities, Hanooman’s versatile features can handle everything from a casual chat to offering professional advice, as well as perform complex technical tasks like coding and tutoring.

With integration-ready pipelines seamlessly integrating into existing products, Hanooman aims to cater to four sectors, including healthcare, governance, financial services, and education. Hanooman is set to offer an open-source alternative to commercially accessible Large Language Models (LLMs) while providing a closed-source model tailored for enterprises in need of on-premise solutions.

Dr. Vishnu Vardhan, Co-Founder & CEO, SML India, said, “Hanooman represents a new era of AI innovation in India. With its launch, we aim to impact the lives of 200 million users within the first year alone. 80 % of Indians can’t use English, hence, Hanooman’s capabilities to support Indian languages will bring Gen AI to the reach of everyone in India and open massive opportunities for companies and startups bringing Gen AI products to the market.

We envision Hanooman not only as a technological marvel but also as a catalyst for societal change. We see Hanooman as a cornerstone of India’s economic future, unlocking the vast potential of GenAI to drive innovation, productivity, and prosperity across various sectors.”

Arjun Prasad, Managing Director of 3AI Holding, said, “Our mission is clear: to ensure that AI is not just a privilege for a few, but a tool accessible to every Indian. Hanooman embodies this commitment of democratising access to cutting-edge technology to every Indian. What sets Hanooman apart is that it is built in India, built for India, and stored in India (data). Through our strategic partnership with SML India, we strive to cater to a diverse spectrum of users, making AI inclusive and available to everyone, regardless of their ethnicity or location. We strongly believe that by empowering individuals with GenAI, we can unlock unprecedented opportunities for innovation, thereby contributing to the growth of the country.”

The strategic partnership between SML India and 3AI Holding reflects a commitment to the fundamental mission of ‘AI for All.’ By jointly owning Hanooman, both the entities are dedicated to democratizing the GenAI space and bridging the gap between urban and rural India. The platform’s launch marks a significant milestone in India’s AI journey, positioning the country as a global leader in AI adoption and innovation.

Hanooman is now available for download in India and can be accessed through the web and mobile application for Android users on the Play Store.

The forthcoming IOS app will soon be available for download on the App Store

From Aspiration to Action: ‘Rural Rising’ brings positive change in Wayanad’s Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, Sulthan Bathery Block, Kerala

Rural Rising Wayanad

Broadcom, under its CSR initiative, in collaboration with NGO United Way of Bengaluru (UWBe) and Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, proudly announced the official inauguration of the ‘Rural Rising,’ an innovative integrated rural development program at Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat in Sultan Bathery block, Wayanad. The Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat has a population of 14,133. It is the second largest tribal-populated gram panchayat in the state. Recognizing the pressing need for comprehensive interventions, ‘Rural Rising’, an integrated rural rising program, was kickstarted.

Grounded in a meticulous need assessment, the initiative strategically addresses critical needs such as the health and nutritional needs of children through a unique Cooked Meal intervention and early education facilities for children.

Addressing the health and nutritional needs of children, particularly those malnourished and from the tribal communities, the Cooked Meal intervention was conceived to ensure the availability and accessibility of nutritious meals three times a day, six days a week, benefiting 315 children across 26 Anganwadi Centres. Six Community Kitchens have also started in six Anganwadi Centers, involving mothers in food preparation to foster healthier food habits at home.

Fifteen nutrition promoters, serving as influencers, are actively engaged in community mobilization under this initiative. They play a crucial role in conducting awareness sessions for mothers emphasizing the importance of consuming healthy and nutritious meals.

The positive outcome of the Cooked Meal intervention is evident, with a substantial improvement in children who were initially underweight. In September 2023, 79% reached a normal height-to-weight ratio, marking a positive trend with 81% in October and an impressive 85% in November.

Addressing the need to create a conducive early learning environment for children, 26 Anganwadi Centres have been revamped, aligning with ICDS guidelines. The transformation of Anganwadi Centres to safe and conducive learning spaces includes new facilities and services, infrastructure support, and the establishment of play areas.

Recognizing the crucial role of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs), the ‘Rural Rising’ initiative also focussed on building the capacities of 200 AWWs and AWHs in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) related skills. This is helping to enhance the quality of services at the AWCs and interactions between caregivers and children, making the entire Anganwadi ecosystem child-friendly.

As expressed by one of the retd. Anganwadi Workers, “In my 39 years of service, I have seen many AWCs located in the forest area grapple with challenges. Today, I express heartfelt gratitude for the positive changes in the AWCs – the introduction of play areas and other improvements ensures a nurturing and vibrant environment for children’s growth and well-being. “

For the initiative, a new milestone was achieved today, as one of the refurbished Anganwadi Centres was inaugurated in the presence of Dr. Renu Raj IAS, the District Collector and District Magistrate, who was present at the event. Dr. Raj said, “Ensuring kids aged 0-6 grow up in a safe and nurturing environment is crucial. This early phase is a big chance for positive development. Investing and putting effort into these early years can build the foundation for a thriving society in the next 20 years.”

Other delegates present today included govt. officials from the Women and Child Development Department, representatives of the Panchayat and team from United Way Bengaluru.

“The intervention is designed on a ‘convergence model,’ focussing on the strength of every stakeholder. In partnership with the local administration and our CSR partner Broadcom, this collaborative effort is significantly contributing to SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being and SDG 4 – Quality Education,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.

Retail’s Brightest Minds Convene at Retail Leadership Summit 2024 to Forge Future Pathways

Mar 4, 2024 by Sujata 0 Comments #Abhishek Bansal, #Amazon (US and India), #Amazon (US and India) and Vivek Somareddy, #ANAROCK, #Anujj Puri, #APAC International Stores, #Ashwin Khasgiwala, #Avjit Mitra, #Avnish Anand - CaratLane; Avnish Kumar, #Being Human Clothing; Sanjay Vakharia, #bigbasket, #bigbasket; Johnson Verghese, #Bijou Kurien, #Celio Future Fashion; Gautam Saraogi, #CEO, #CEO & Co-founder, #CEO of the Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC) and the International Council of Shopping Centres (ICSC), #Chairman, #Co-Founder & CEO, #Croma, #Darpan Mehta, #David Macadam, #Dhiraj Agarwal, #Dhishoom Cinemas., #Director, #Emerging Markets, #Executive Director, #Forum Malls; Rajneesh Mahajan, #Fossil India; Nissan Joseph, #Founder & MD, #Go Fashion (India) Ltd (Go Colors);, #Hari Menon, #Infiniti Retail; Hari Menon, #Inorbit Mall; Sagar Daryani, #Inorbit Malls and Shibu Phillips, #International Council of Shopping Centres (ICSC), #Lalit Agarwal, #Lalit Agarwal - V-Mart Retail; Sagar Daryani, #Lulu group. While on the brands side were Manish Kapoor, #MD & CEO, #Metro Brands; Rajneesh Mahajan, #Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC), #Neeru's; Sanjay Vakharia, #Nexus Malls; Muhammed Ali, #Pacific Group; Dalip Sehgal, #Parul Gulati, #Pepe Jeans; Rajesh Jain, #Rajesh Jain, #Reliance Retail Limited, #Retailers Association of India (RAI), #Seller Experience and Global Trade, #Shopping Malls, #Sports & Leisure Apparel (Lacoste India), #Sports & Leisure Apparel Ltd; Sanjeev Rao, #Spykar Lifestyles;, #Spykar; P Jayakumar - Apollo Pharmacy; Rajiv Nair - Kaya Ltd; Samir Srivastav- Looks Salon; Satyen Momaya, #Trent, #Tushar Dhingra, #V-Mart Retail, #VP, #Wow! Momo Foods, #Wow! Momo Foods; Venkatesalu P

March 4, 2024, Mumbai: The Retail Leadership Summit 2024 (RLS 2024), organised by the Retailers Association of India (RAI), took place on February 28 and 29 at the Hotel Westin Powai Lake, Mumbai. This annual event brings together the brightest minds in retail to explore forward-thinking strategies within the industry.

Retail's Brightest Minds Convene at Retail Leadership Summit 2024 to Forge Future Pathways 2

Welcoming the audience at RLS 2024, Kumar Rajagopalan, Chief Executive Officer, Retailers Association of India (RAI), said, “In 2023, the retail industry witnessed a tale of two halves: robust growth initially, followed by a plateau. This reflects the criticality of aligning with market dynamics and consumer needs. We’re observing a transformative shift, with retailers blending digital and physical experiences to create seamless consumer journeys. The key to future success lies in harnessing the power of omnichannel strategies and understanding the evolving consumer preference for convenience and trust. As we move forward, embracing innovation and agile responses to market trends will be pivotal in shaping the retail landscape.

Setting the tone for the summit, Bijou Kurien, Chairman, Retailers Association of India (RAI), expressed,  “The retail industry in India is poised for significant growth in the year ahead. Driven by an 8%+ growth in GDP in Q3 FY’24 and based on steady investment by the Government and Private sector, consumption is bound to grow. The combination of online commerce coupled with offline expansion, driven by a more technology savvy consumer with greater aspirations would herald significant changes in retail structure, and channel strategy. Retailers and brands are gearing up for aggressive growth, particularly eyeing tier 2 cities for deeper market penetration. This strategic focus not only indicates a broadening of access for consumers but also signifies a shift towards tapping into the burgeoning demand in emerging urban centres. This optimistic outlook underscores the sector’s resilience and its pivotal role in the broader economic landscape of India.”

Retail's Brightest Minds Convene at Retail Leadership Summit 2024 to Forge Future Pathways 1

Highlights of RLS 2024 included presentations and knowledge reports by RAI-Boston Consulting Group report titled ‘Unlocking the $2Tn retail opportunity by 2030: An activist agenda’, RAI-Deloitte report titled ‘Future of Retail: Profitable Growth through Technology and AI’, RAI-KPMG report titled ‘Achieving seamless commerce in India’ and PWC report titled ‘How India shops online: Consumer preferences in the metropolises and tier-1, 2, 3, 4 cities’. Furthermore, Best Retail Workplaces 2024 report by RAI – Great Place To Work was unveiled and the respective teams were felicitated.

The Summit saw the participation retail leaders, as well as top names in the retail service provider space. Retail stalwarts speaking at the summit included Hari Menon, CEO & Co-Founder, bigbasket, Lalit Agarwal – V-Mart Retail; Sagar Daryani, Co-Founder & CEO, Wow! Momo Foods, Avnish Anand – CaratLane; Avnish Kumar, Director, Neeru’s; Sanjay Vakharia, CEO, Spykar; P Jayakumar – Apollo Pharmacy; Rajiv Nair – Kaya Ltd; Samir Srivastav- Looks Salon; Satyen Momaya, CEO, Celio Future Fashion; Gautam Saraogi, CEO, Go Fashion (India) Ltd (Go Colors); among many others.

Speaking during the panel discussion on RLS 2024, Lalit Agarwal, Founder & MD, V-Mart Retail, discussed creating experiences in retail that resonate deeply with customers, especially budget-conscious customers, to make them feel smart and stylish within their means. He emphasised on emotional connection through personalised service and storytelling, making customers feel valued and understood. Lalit Agarwal advocates for building strong brand connections that extend beyond the store, through all interactions, including advertisements. This approach aims to turn customers into authentic influencers, leveraging word-of-mouth for brand promotion. The key is continuous engagement and storytelling, which ensures customer loyalty and organic growth.

Noting the importance of strategy differences across retail categories, Rajesh Jain, MD & CEO, Sports & Leisure Apparel (Lacoste India), highlighted the approach in the premium fashion segment, emphasising a uniform customer experience across online and offline channels without price differentiation except during season-end sales. He said that this strategy aims to cultivate customer habits and preferences for purchasing channels, whether for convenience online or the experience in-store. By maintaining consistent pricing and service, customers understand the brand’s value proposition, reducing their expectation for discounts and fostering brand loyalty.

Furthermore, Darpan Mehta, Director Tax, APAC International Stores, Amazon (US and India) and Vivek Somareddy, VP, Emerging Markets, Seller Experience and Global Trade, Amazon (US and India) made a presentation on “Unlocking Mechanisms and Working Capital for Business Expansion”.

Additionally, the second day of RLS 2024 featured a keynote speech by David Macadam, CEO of the Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC) and the International Council of Shopping Centres (ICSC). This was succeeded by a dynamic panel discussion titled ‘Mahasangram: Retail and Retail Real Estate,’ bringing together prominent figures from both retail real estate and retail industries for an engaging exchange of ideas.

Mall Developers participating in the discussion were Abhishek Bansal, Executive Director, Pacific Group; Dalip Sehgal, CEO, Nexus Malls; Muhammed Ali, CEO, Forum Malls; Rajneesh Mahajan, CEO, Inorbit Malls and Shibu Phillips, Director, Shopping Malls, Lulu group. While on the brands side were Manish Kapoor, MD & CEO, Pepe Jeans; Rajesh Jain, MD & CEO, Sports & Leisure Apparel Ltd; Sanjeev Rao, CEO, Being Human Clothing; Sanjay Vakharia, CEO, Spykar Lifestyles; and Tushar Dhingra, Co-founder & CEO, Dhishoom Cinemas.

In his keynote address at the summit before the Mahasangram Session, David Macadam, CEO, Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC), International Council of Shopping Centres (ICSC), shared insights on the evolution of experiential retail and e-commerce. He discussed the challenges and opportunities within the retail industry, emphasizing the importance of adapting to consumer demands for experiential and sustainable shopping experiences. Macadam highlighted the significant role of AI and technology in retail, the impact of mixed-use developments, and strategies for business development. He advocated for embracing change, prioritizing customer experience, and leveraging strategic partnerships to navigate the retail landscape successfully.

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Day 2 of RLS 2024 also had a dedicated D2C segment that saw participation of leaders of top D2C brands namely, Dhiraj Agarwal, Founder, Campus Sutra; Sneh Jain, Managing Director, The Baker’s Dozen; Harsh Lal, Co-Founder, The Souled Store. A scintillating Fireside chat with Parul Gulati, Actor & Founder of Nish Hair (featured on Shark Tank India). This segment explored the unconventional strategies that has enable these brands to achieve immense success in a short frame of time.

Parallelly to RLS 2024 was an extensive session of ‘Retail Store Design’ that saw participation of top retailers and brands deliberating on topics such as ‘Future of Retail Design: Exploring Emerging Trends and Technologies’, ‘Balancing Design and Functionality in Retail Spaces’, a captivating Fireside Chat and  a Masterclass on ‘The art of curating memorable and meaning customer journey’.

The advisory board of RLS 2024 includes Anujj Puri, ANAROCK, Ashwin Khasgiwala, Reliance Retail Limited; Avjit Mitra, Croma, Infiniti Retail; Hari Menon, bigbasket; Johnson Verghese, Fossil India; Nissan Joseph, Metro Brands; Rajneesh Mahajan, Inorbit Mall; Sagar Daryani, Wow! Momo Foods; Venkatesalu P, Trent.

The first day of RLS 2024 came to a close with the grand felicitation of the crème de la crème of the retail industry with India’s Retail Champions Award 2024 and the Retail Start-up Awards 2024, both evaluated by eminent personalities from the industry as the Jury.

Winners of India’s Retail Champions Awards 2024 were:

 

Categories Name of the Company Name of the Brand
Apparel & Lifestyle The Souled Store The Souled Store
Apparel & Lifestyle Raymond Lifestyle Ethnix
Apparel & Lifestyle Spykar Lifestyle Pvt Ltd Spykar
Apparel & Lifestyle Brand Concepts Ltd BAGLINE, House of Luxury Bags
Beauty Himalaya Wellness Company Himalaya Wellness
Wellness Wellness Forever Wellness Forever
Wellness Apollo Pharmacy Limited Apollo Pharmacy
Consumer Durables & IT (CDIT) Vijay Sales (India) Private Limited Vijay Sales
Consumer Durables & IT (CDIT) Infiniti Retail Ltd Croma
D2C Cleardekho Eyewear Pvt Ltd ClearDekho
Department store Shoppers Stop Limited Shoppers Stop
Food & General Retail (Large format over 5,000 sq. ft) LULU Group International LULU HYPER MARKET
Food & General Retail (Small format below 5,000 sq. ft) Reliance Retail Limited Reliance Fresh Signature
Footwear Metro brands Ltd Footwear
Footwear Liberty shoes Ltd. Footwear
Home Decor / Home Improvement Godrej & Boyce Mfg Co Ltd Godrej Interio
Jewellery Reliance Jewels (Reliance Retail) Reliance Jewels
Restaurant & QSR Apsara Ice Creams LLP Apsara Ice Creams
Restaurant & QSR Dindigul Thalappakatti Dindigul Thalappakatti
Speciality Retail Ample Technologies Private Limited Monobrand Stoes of Apple, ASICS, UA and Bose. Apple Store brand name “Imagine”
Success Story of 2024 Trent Zudio