• Bhubaneswar India
  • Contact+ 91-9938772605
  • Mon - Sat : 10:00AM - 6:00PM

Tag: India

JSW MG Motor India accelerates 7 startups focused on AI in Electric Mobility under MG Developer Program and Grant Season 5.0

Gurugram, October 14, 2024: JSW MG Motor India today announced the acceleration of seven startups focused on AI in Electric Mobility, as part of the MG Developer Program (MGDP) Season 5.0. The MGDP initiative, supported by ecosystem partners, promotes innovation in the evolving AI space within electric mobility. The selected seven startups are- Anuvega Powertronics, Aselector Technologies, Emerging Technologies, Gudlyf Mobility, Power Jet (EV Urjaa), Ravity, Vocbot AI.

The theme for MGDP Season 5.0, AI in Electric Mobility, encourages tech startups to explore the transformative potential of AI in reshaping both business operations and everyday life. The seven startups will be involved in developing pilot programs and ongoing projects in the coming months, paving the way for practical applications and innovations that integrate AI with electric mobility.

For this season, which began in early 2024, JSW MG Motor India partnered with Startup India and Manthan (Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India), significantly enhancing the program’s impact. A consortium, comprising AWS, Exicom, Lohum, and DRIIV (Delhi Research Implementation and Innovation), provided crucial support, fostering collaboration and innovation within the startup fraternity.

Gaurav Gupta, Chief Growth Officer, JSW MG Motor India, said, “Our commitment to innovation and collaboration in electric mobility sector is steadfast. The MG Developer Program and Grant serve as a catalyst, empowering startups to develop AI solutions that address the challenges and opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving mobility landscape. By providing a supportive environment, mentorship, and access to resources, we’re nurturing a new generation of innovators who are poised to shape India’s electric mobility future by leveraging AI. As JSW MG Motor India continues to invest in technological advancement and creating opportunities in AI space, we look forward to witness growth of these startups and their positive impact on the Indian automotive landscape.”

The MGDP received over 100 applications from 52 cities across India, with 7 emerging as winners, highlighting an unprecedented nationwide impact.

  • Anuvega Powertronics- Cutting-edge power electronics and drivetrain solutions provider
  • Aselector Technologies- AI based platform provider for customer experience and process optimization
  • Emerging Technologies- Dedicated to advancing safety and efficiency in the auto industry
  • Gudlyf Mobility- A deep tech startup working in the energy storage solutions
  • Power Jet (EV Urjaa)- An EV charging infrastructure provider
  • Ravity- AI connected mobility management platform
  • Vocbot AI- Multi-lingual SaaS based, AI driven contact center

Since its inception in 2019, the MG Developer Program, in partnership with innovation partners such as Jio, SAP, Exicom, etc., has created a strong channel for startups, developers, and innovators in India, securing over 1,550 entries till date. Diverse fields ranging from Connected Car technology to electric mobility have been covered, alongside 280 teams progressing to the initial rounds across seasons 1-4. JSW MG Motor India has additionally facilitated mentorship from over 100 experts, including the leadership of MG India and partners within the technology ecosystem. The company has already associated with 34 promising start-ups so far through the MG Developer Program (MGDP) and Grant, and these are actively engaged in multiple projects with the company.

ITC Hotels achieves major milestone as Brand Welcomhotel grows with 25 properties pan India

New Delhi, 26th July 2024:  ITC Hotels, India’s leading hospitality chain, achieves a significant milestone in its growth trajectory as it announced the opening of its 25 the property under the distinguished Brand Welcomhotel. The landmark launch of Welcomhotel Belagavi, Karnataka, is a testament to ITC Hotels’ robust asset-right expansion strategy and reflects the Brand’s ability to adapt to diverse market demands while consistently delivering exceptional service and hospitality. Brand Welcomhotel has witnessed substantial growth, establishing itself as a prominent player in India’s hospitality sector.

welcomehotel

 The Welcomhotel brand has emerged as a growth driver for ITC Hotels. The Brand opened 7 managed hotels and 3 owned assets with a total of 916 keys over the last 5 years (FY 2019-20 to FY 2023-24). In the last financial year (FY 2023-24) alone, 4 new management deals with 406 keys were signed for the Welcomhotel brand; properties that are set to open over the coming 4-5 years.

 Commenting on this milestone, Anil Chadha, Chief Executive stated, “The expansion of the Welcomhotel brand is a significant achievement for ITC Hotels. Welcomhotel is the new age traveller’s key to curated immersive experiences.
Present in locations ranging from hills to beaches, and deserts to cities, the opening and signing of more properties under the brand Welcomhotel is aligned with ITC Hotels’ asset right growth strategy to take our brand and services to tier-2 markets in addition to prime metro cities. Welcomhotel Belagavi, our 25th property, embodies our endeavour to create unparalleled hospitality experiences, ensuring that guests enjoy a stay that is both luxurious and in harmony with the environment. We look forward to continuing this journey of growth and excellence.”

 Each Welcomhotel property is designed to reflect the essence of its location, ensuring that guests enjoy an authentic and memorable stay. Welcomhotel properties skilfully blend together local aesthetics and modern-day comforts along with ITC Hotels’ renowned culinary expertise. From metropolitan cities to serene locales, the Brand’s portfolio includes properties in key cities such as New Delhi, Bengaluru and Chennai, as well as picturesque destinations like Pahalgam, Mussoorie, Bhubaneswar, Jodhpur, Khimsar, Amritsar, Katra, Chandigarh, Shimla, Chail, Manali, Jim Corbett, Vadodara, Visakhapatnam, Port Blair, Guntur, Coimbatore, Mahabalipuram, Aurangabad, Ahmedabad and now Belagavi, demonstrating a pan-India presence well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of its guests.

 Nestled in the serene locale of Kakati, Welcomhotel Belagavi offers breath-taking views of the surrounding hills and lush greenery, setting a new benchmark for comfort and elegance. Spanning an expanse of over 5 acres and conveniently located near the airport, this new property is poised to become a haven of happiness for guests. It embodies the Brand’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional experiences while prioritizing sustainable and enriching experiences.

 Welcomhotel Belagavi features 116 well-appointed rooms, each with step-out balconies offering serene views of the surrounding landscape. The architecture and interiors of the property reflect the native beauty and vibrant lifestyle of Belagavi, skilfully blending classic and contemporary design elements. Emphasizing geometric shapes and large windows, the hotel’s design adheres to principles of symmetry, calmness, and proportion, allowing natural light to flood the spaces. The interiors celebrate Belagavi’s monsoon rains, with art pieces depicting Karnataka’s forts in the rain, a water droplet sculpture, and a chandelier of cascading crystals. The hotel caters to both leisure and MICE travellers, with open spaces and lush landscapes making it an ideal destination for intimate weddings and events.

 Welcomhotel Belagavi boasts nine versatile venues, including two grand ballrooms, a conference room, an open sky deck, and three lush green lawns, positioning it as a premier destination for business and celebratory occasions. Basava Prasad Jolle, Managing Director of Jolle Hospitality Group, shared, “Brand Welcomhotel is very popular with guests and we are extremely proud to bring Welcomhotel Belagavi to this city, which boasts a rich cultural heritage and is also a prominent business destination. This hotel is a perfect blend of modern amenities and local cultural elements, providing our guests with a unique and enriching experience.”

The hotel’s dining options include WelcomCafe, an all-day dining restaurant serving global and Indian regional cuisine.The WelcomSthalika menu features curated local dishes from North Karnataka, highlighting the region’s culinary heritage. Guests can also enjoy a well-equipped fitness centre, an outdoor infinity swimming pool, and the renowned K by Kaya Kalp, offering a range of traditional therapies for a rejuvenating experience.

 Focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, ITC Hotels continues to lead the way in the hospitality industry, providing guests with exceptional stays that honour both tradition and the environment. The expansion of the Welcomhotel brand across India exemplifies the Brand’s focus on strategic growth and commitment to excellence. As ITC Hotels continues to grow its footprint, guests can look forward to more unique and enriching experiences that blend contemporary luxury with local cultural elements.

Aye Finance Delivers Exceptional Performance Across Key Metrics in FY 2023-24

Mumbai, 18th July 2024: Aye Finance, a category leader providing working capital and fixed capital to underserved micro enterprises across India, has announced outstanding financial performance for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024 (FY 2023-24).

In FY 2023-24, Aye Finance reported remarkable growth across key financial metrics. The company’s profit after tax grew nearly threefold to INR 161 Crores, up from INR 57 crores in the previous year, showcasing its robust business model and operational efficiency. Revenue saw a significant increase of 67%, soaring to INR 1072 crores compared to INR 643.34 crore in FY 2022-23. This substantial revenue growth reflects the company’s expanding market presence and the increasing demand for its financial products among micro enterprises.

Aye Finance’s Assets under Management (AUM) also witnessed a remarkable increase, rising to INR 4400 crores from INR 2700 crores in FY23. This growth in AUM demonstrates the company’s ability to scale its lending operations while maintaining asset quality. Notably, the lender kept its Net NPA under 1%, highlighting its strong risk management practices. The majority of Aye’s portfolio is secured by hypothecation of assets and mortgage, further bolstering its financial stability.

Sanjay Sharma, Managing Director of Aye Finance, commented on the company’s performance, , “Our exceptional performance in FY 2023-24 is a testament to the resilience of our business model, the hard work put in by our team, and the trust placed in us by our valued customers. Our growth is built on a stable market of micro MSE segment. We remain committed to empowering MSEs, fostering financial inclusion, and contributing to the overall economic development of the country. As we look ahead, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the vast growth opportunities and further strengthen our position as a leading provider of innovative financial solutions for this vital segment.”

Since its inception in 2014, Aye Finance has made significant strides in addressing the funding challenges of the micro enterprise sector. The company has disbursed over INR 10,000 crores to more than 9 lacs businesses, demonstrating its substantial impact on the MSME landscape in India. Aye’s success can be attributed to its unique cluster-based credit methodology for risk assessment, product suite tailored to specific needs of micro enterprises, and robust risk management and governance policies.

With a strong financial performance and latest funding, Aye Finance is well-positioned to cement its leadership in the MSME lending space. The company aims to create far-reaching socioeconomic impact by catalyzing entrepreneurship and driving financial empowerment at the grassroots level across India. Looking ahead, Aye Finance is poised to capitalize on vast growth opportunities and further strengthen its position as a leading provider of innovative financial solutions for the vital MSME segment.

Gallant Sports Unveils Injury-Free Multi-Sports Field Empowering Sports culture in India

Delhi, July 2024 – Gallant Sports proudly announces the inauguration of a state-of-the-art injury-free multi-sports field at Modern School in Vasant Vihar. This cutting-edge facility, unveiled by cricketing legend and Ex-Modernite Gautam Gambhir, marks a significant milestone in India’s sports infrastructure. It aims to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for young athletes to train and compete.

field

The sporting culture in India is evolving, with schools like Modern School in Vasant Vihar upgrading their sports infrastructure to meet international standards.Gallant Sports addresses the specific needs of such progressive schools, creating and building top-quality facilities for their students.

“The sporting culture in India is changing rapidly, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of sports in a student’s overall development,” said Gautam Gambhir, head coach of the Indian cricket team and Ex-Modernite, while speaking to the media. “Schools play a pivotal role in nurturing young talent, and investing in multi-sports turf is crucial. It not only encourages active participation but also fosters a spirit of competition and teamwork among students. These initiatives enhance physical fitness and instil discipline and resilience, qualities essential both on and off the field. By providing world-class facilities, schools can empower their students to excel in diverse sports, paving the way for future champions and contributing to a healthier, more active nation.”

Gallant Sports is leading the way in innovative sports infrastructure with the introduction of injury-free multi-sports fields in India. Covering nearly 100,000 sq. ft., this advanced field features a unique non-rubber infill product and perforated pipes for effective water management. A shock pad enhances safety, supporting activities such as football, futsal, hockey, cricket, and athletics. Despite facing challenges like Delhi’s heat waves and rains, the project was completed on schedule, ensuring a safe and enjoyable playing space for children.

Nasir Ali, CEO of Gallant Sports, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We are extremely happy to inaugurate an injury-free multi-sports field. Investing in high-quality sports facilities is crucial for the holistic development of students. Schools should prioritise upgrading their sports infrastructure to provide students with the best opportunities to excel in various sports. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to promoting safe and sustainable sports infrastructure in India.”

India boasts top-tier sports facilities managed by government bodies, private companies, and local organisations. While cricket remains immensely popular, there is a significant need for enhanced facilities for sports such as football, hockey, and athletics. The maintenance of these facilities poses challenges, with many requiring safety and usability improvements, hindering the growth of sports. Increased investment from both government and corporate sectors is crucial to renovating these facilities, improving access to sports, and supporting young athletes in realising their potential. This initiative will not only advance sports development in India but also elevate the country’s global sporting reputation.

Panasonic Avionics Opens New Software Design Facility in Pune, India

Chennai, 18th July 2024 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic Avionics), a world leading provider of in-flight engagement and connectivity (IFEC) solutions, has today opened a new software design and development facility in Pune, India. Founded in 1979, Panasonic Avionics delivers engaging experiences that connect airlines with their passengers, revolutionizing the in-flight experience and redefining the value of in-flight engagement and communication (IFEC) systems for a new era of air travel. Over 200 leading airlines across the world have chosen to install Panasonic Avionics’ in-flight engagement, satellite Wi-Fi connectivity, and digital services on their aircraft.

panasonic

Panasonic Avionics’ new facility in Pune was opened in the presence of Chief Guest, the Honorable Minister of State for Civil Aviation & Cooperation, Shri. Murlidhar Mohol. He was welcomed to the opening ceremony by Mr Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, and Mr Manish Sharma, Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India and South Asia, and Director of Panasonic Avionics India.

Ken Sain, Chief Executive Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, said: “Innovative, future-focused and proven software is at the heart of every IFEC solution that Panasonic Avionics develops, creating a digital channel that enables our airline customers to engage with their passengers more effectively than ever before.

“With its huge number of skilled engineers, and fast-growing aviation sector, India is a natural location for us to invest in for the future of our business, and we look forward to accelerating our software innovation and design capabilities from our new Pune facility.”

Satyen Yadav, Chief Technology Officer of Panasonic Avionics Corporation, said: “Today marks a significant milestone as we embark on a journey to accelerate the delivery of personalized digital experiences for airline passengers. We look forward to delivering cutting-edge software solutions that delight customers both in the region and globally, and to growing our software talent in Pune.”

Manish Sharma, Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India and South Asia, and Director, Panasonic Avionics India, said: “India has become synonymous with ‘Capability, when it comes to software talent’. Today, India is providing IT support and IT services to the world and Panasonic has invested in setting up innovation centers and global capability centers to provide high quality services to our other subsidiaries across the world. Panasonic Avionics’ facility in Pune is the latest in our series of investments in India and we are looking to cater to multiple markets and airlines with innovative solutions for in-flight engagement and communication (IFEC).”

The new facility is the first in India dedicated to supporting the development and delivery of IFEC solutions. It is employing over 200 skilled engineers at the point of launch, with growth plans in place to scale the software engineering talent at the facility to support the increasing demand from airlines for IFEC solutions that will deliver personalized experiences for their passengers.

Panasonic Avionics’ new software design and development facility is integral to the company’s strategy of enabling airlines to realize their passenger digital engagement visions by using the most innovative IFEC solutions, supported by best-in-class enterprise software tools that are self-service and designed to lower IFEC solution lifecycle costs.

A range of software will be developed, tested, and sustained in state-of-the-art laboratories throughout the facility to deliver passenger experiences for narrowbody and widebody aircraft that meet airlines’ needs. These include the X Series in-flight entertainment system and digital solutions including airline interactives which enables airlines to create unique seatback passenger experiences, IFEC development support via SDKs (software development kits), and mobile companion apps to name a few.

The new facility in Pune will accelerate Panasonic Avionics’ software development capabilities, and help improve the time to market of robust, next generation IFEC and digital solutions.

To accelerate the growth of the new facility, Panasonic Avionics is developing partnerships with universities in the state of Maharashtra, and right across India, to nurture and develop skilled engineering graduates.

Panasonic Avionics’ new facility in Pune is the latest Panasonic investment in India. Panasonic entered the Indian market in 1972 and since then the company has grown from strength to strength and now Panasonic Avionics joins Panasonic Life Solutions India, which currently has 11,000 employees over multiple locations across India.

The new facility has been developed through a ‘build-operate-transfer’ (BOT) operation. It was initiated in 2021 with investment from Panasonic Avionics and has resulted in the creation of a team of skilled engineers who will drive the company’s software design and development from Pune going forward.

Coursera Launches New AI Initiatives on AI Appreciation Day; India Sees GenAI Enrollment Every Minute

New Delhi, India [July 17, 2024] – On AI Appreciation Day, Coursera, a leading online learning platform, has announced several new initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and institutions with mission-critical GenAI skills, equipping them to harness the transformative power of AI technology. These initiatives include new GenAI-focused content and credentials, enhancements to the existing Professional Certificate portfolio with GenAI-specific updates, upgrades to Coursera Coach, and an expansion of the GenAI Academy to help businesses equip their teams with GenAI skills.

A recent report by AWS and Access Partnership revealed that Indian employers are willing to pay 54% more for workers with AI skills. These new launches aim to address the growing demand for GenAI skills globally, and in India. So far, there have been over 2 million enrolments globally across more than 250 GenAI courses and projects on Coursera, with India leading the charge with over 700,000 enrolments. With a 1,648% year-over-year increase in enrolments in India, someone in the country enrols in GenAI content every minute.

“The soaring demand for GenAI courses by Indian learners on Coursera underscores their resilience and forward-thinking spirit needed to thrive in a world driven by rapid technological shifts,” said Raghav Gupta, Managing Director, India and APAC, Coursera. “On this AI Appreciation Day, we are thrilled to enhance our offerings of mission-critical GenAI skills through trusted brands and credentials, turning it into an engine of opportunity for everyone. By embracing AI-enhanced learning and developing an AI-skilled talent pool, India can harness GenAI’s potential to empower every citizen and accelerate towards a $5 trillion economy”

The new initiatives Coursera announced today include:

7 new GenAI courses, Specializations, and certificates from top partners

  • Generative AI for Software Development Skills Certificate from DeepLearning.AI – Designed for software developers and engineers at all stages in their careers, this program will explore how large language models (LLMs) work, their architecture, and their applications in various coding tasks.
  • Programming with Generative AI course from IIT Guwahati – Designed for software developers, tech leads, or AI enthusiasts, this hands-on course explores how GenAI tools can transform the coding workflow.
  • Artificial Intelligence Graduate Certificate from the University of Colorado Boulder – This comprehensive program helps learners build a strong foundation in key AI topics, including GenAI, natural language processing, computer vision, and ethics.
  • Generative AI in Marketing Specialization from UVA Darden – This four-course series explores how GenAI frameworks, applications, and considerations are essential to create and sustain an effective AI marketing solution.
  • Responsible Generative AI Specialization from University of Michigan – By exploring the possibilities and risks of GenAI, learners will be able to identify impacts relevant to business operations, consumers, society, and the environment.
  • Change Management for Generative AI course from Vanderbilt University – This course will delve into the strategies and frameworks necessary for organizations to successfully implement and adapt to GenAI.
  • Generative AI for Kids, Parents, and Teachers course from Vanderbilt University – Designed as a resource for parents and teachers, this free course will help children navigate a world filled with GenAI. It will teach kids how to use GenAI to innovate, solve problems, use multimodal prompting, and engage in creative thinking.

Enhancing 8 entry-level Professional Certificates from IBM, Microsoft and Meta with GenAI updates including activities, readings, and videos:

  • Data Analyst from IBM
  • Data Engineering from IBM
  • Data Science from IBM
  • Full Stack Software Developer from IBM
  • Cybersecurity Analyst from Microsoft
  • Power BI Data Analyst from Microsoft
  • Marketing Analytics from Meta
  • Social Media Marketing from Meta

Expanding GenAI Academy with ‘GenAI for Teams’: This new catalogue from top research institutions and companies will equip teams with GenAI skills tailored to their business functions. With real-world applications and secure, hands-on practice, enterprises can use GenAI Academy to unlock innovation and productivity across functional teams.

  • GenAI for Software and Product Teams (100+ courses): Streamline routine tasks such as code generation and documentation, freeing up valuable time to create and launch higher value, differentiated offerings.
  • GenAI for Data Teams (70+ courses): Optimize complex tasks such as data analysis and visualization, enabling deeper insights and more accurate business recommendations.
  • GenAI for Marketing Teams (60+ courses): Maximize customer lifetime value with deeper insights, content personalization, and more efficient targeting at scale.

Introducing Coursera Coach as a Sidebar Experience: Coursera Coach, introduced in 2023, provides AI-powered guidance within the learning experience. It will now be available as a sidebar within courses, making it a more integrated part of the learning journey. Coursera Coach will act as an interactive guide, enabling learners to:

  • Ask questions to clarify material and stay on track
  • Summarize key takeaways for better note-taking
  • Practice for quizzes and tests to solidify knowledge and identify gaps
  • Explore how their learning aligned with current or future goals

Launched in January 2024, Coursera’s Generative AI (GenAI) Academy is designed to equip executives and their employees with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven workplace. GenAI Academy offers a unique blend of foundational literacy and executive education programs from top research universities and companies at the forefront of AI, including Microsoft, Stanford Online, Vanderbilt University, DeepLearning.AI, Fractal Analytics, Google Cloud, and AWS.

Coursera is harnessing the power of GenAI to transform online learning. The platform now offers AI-powered translations for over 4,600 courses and 55 Professional Certificates in 21 languages including Hindi, making education more accessible to a global audience. An AI-powered Course Builder streamlines content creation, enabling institutions and businesses to develop custom courses efficiently. Additionally, Coursera is committed to maintaining academic integrity through a new suite of AI-powered tools that strengthen assessment and grading processes, ensuring genuine learning and skill development.

Mankind Pharma Signs Non-Exclusive Patent License Agreement with Takeda to Commercialize Vonoprazan in India

Mumbai, July 16, 2024: Mankind Pharma Limited and Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited signed a Non-Exclusive Patent License Agreement for commercialising ‘Vonoprazan’ in the Indian market. The agreement allows Mankind Pharma to launch the novel drug for treating Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) under its trademark.

Vonoprazan is a potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB) used for the treatment of acid-related disorders, including Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The drug is effective in treating conditions such as erosive oesophagitis, gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer, peptic ulcer, gastro-oesophageal reflux, reflux oesophagitis, and Helicobacter pylori eradication.

Mr. M Ramesh, EVP – Global Business Development – Mankind Pharma Limited, said, “This non-exclusive patent license agreement with Takeda aligns with our commitment to bringing innovative and effective treatments to patients in India. By introducing Vonoprazan, we aim to address a significant medical need and improve the quality of life for those suffering from acid-related illnesses with a new and advanced option for managing acid-related disorders, potentially offering improved health outcomes and quality of life.”

Apparel Group Partners With Crocs in India

India July 15, 2024
Apparel Group, the global leading retail conglomerate, announced the expansion of its successful partnership with Crocs, the global footwear brand. Building on their existing collaboration in the GCC region, Apparel Group has now been appointed as the Exclusive Retail Licensee for Crocs’ iconic footwear in the North and East of India, marking a significant expansion of the brand’s presence in the Indian market.

This development enriches Apparel Group’s robust portfolio and reinforces its commitment to bringing leading international brands closer to its customers. This strategic alliance leverages the distinct strengths of both retail giants, positioning them perfectly to capitalize on the surging demand for high-quality footwear in the region.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Tushar Ved – President, of Apparel Group India said, “At Apparel Group, we are committed to offering our customers the best shopping experience possible. Our focus is to build on the success we have together achieved in the GCC region and extend it to new markets in North and East India. With the addition of Crocs’ iconic footwear brand to our Indian portfolio, we are excited to expand our customer reach and offer a wider range of high-quality products. We value our customers’ loyalty and provide them with exceptional service and ease of shopping.”

“At Apparel Group, our dedication remains steadfast in delivering excellent retail experience. Our partnership with Crocs is poised for growth and enhancing their presence through our existing retail network. We are confident that through this partnership with this leading global brand, we will meet consumers’ growing aspirations for lifestyle brands in the region,” said Mr. Abhishek Bajpai – CEO, Apparel Group India, on the partnership.

“Our partnership with Apparel Group is a strategic move for us as we continue to expand our business in India. We are confident that this collaboration will enable us to leverage their strategic network and commitment to experiential opportunities. By adapting their proven strategies to meet the unique needs and preferences of the Indian market, we are confident that this move will further enhance our offerings and open even more prospects for growth and success,” expressed Mr. Sumit Dhingra, Vice President & General Manager- India, Middle East and Africa, Crocs.

The alliance promises to unlock exciting new opportunities for both companies while providing Indian consumers with even greater access to Crocs’ beloved products. Through this strategic partnership, customers can choose from an extensive collection available for men, women, and kids. The strategic alliance between Apparel Group and Crocs marks a formidable union of strengths, propelling both retail companies to seize the growing demand for high-quality footwear products in the North and East Indian markets.

World Youth Skills Day 2024: Innovators Driving Youth Empowerment in India

On World Youth Skills Day 2024, we celebrate the innovators driving youth empowerment in India. Through pioneering initiatives in education, financial inclusion, and skill development, organizations like mPokket, Hero Vired, SMSGHM, and BMU are equipping the next generation with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving world.

BMU’s Impactful Experiential Learning on World Youth Skill Day
Founded by the Hero Group, BML Munjal University (BMU) stands as a beacon of innovation and skill development in higher education. On World Youth Skill Day, BMU reaffirms its commitment to nurturing future leaders through pioneering educational initiatives. Emphasizing hands-on learning and entrepreneurial spirit, BMU equips students with practical skills essential for global competitiveness. Initiatives like ACIC-BMU empower rural women entrepreneurs, while Sankalp engages MBA students in transformative community projects nationwide. With a focus on experiential learning and holistic development, BMU continues to redefine education by fostering a dynamic environment where knowledge meets real-world application, preparing youth to excel in a rapidly evolving world.

wsd

Hero Vired – Equipping Young Learners with cutting-edge skills
Hero Vired is passionate about empowering young learners and equipping them with cutting-edge skills to be globally relevant in the fields of emerging technologies. To cope with the fast-paced industry, they focus on industry partnerships to form strong alliances with leading organizations across the Gaming, Esports, and other innovative sectors. This ensures that their programs are aligned with real-world industry requirements and provide learners with up-to-date, relevant skills. Additionally, they have incorporated the latest technological advancements into their programs. They enhance their learning modules with AI and customize learning paths for each student. This personalized approach ensures that learners become proficient with cutting-edge tools and techniques. Their program offerings emphasize skill-based learning, focusing on developing technical and soft skills.’

Sri Madhusudan Sai Global Humanitarian Mission
Sri Madhusudan Sai Global Humanitarian Mission (SMSGHM) exemplifies a pioneering approach to education, embodying the motto ‘One World One Family.’ Spearheaded by visionary humanitarian Sri Madhusudan Sai, the mission has established a completely free system of values-based education to nurture dedicated servants of society. This initiative includes the Sri Sathya Sai Loka Seva Gurukulam Group of Institutions, the Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, and the Sri Madhusudan Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, India’s first free residential private rural medical college. Through 28 educational campuses in India and one in Nigeria, SMSGHM provides free education from grade 6 to doctorate studies, emphasizing the holistic development of over 3,600 boys and girls.

Leading digital lender mPokket pioneers youth empowerment

mPokket stands out as one of India’s fastest-growing digital lending platforms, dedicated to uplifting the youth through financial empowerment and skill development. Founded by Gaurav Jalan in 2026 with a vision to bridge the credit gap among young adults, mPokket offers accessible loans via its mobile app, supporting everyday needs from educational expenses to personal finances. Beyond lending, the platform is also focusing on career advancement products reflecting mPokket’s commitment to fostering financial inclusion among India’s burgeoning youth population. Additionally, through impactful CSR initiatives, such as partnerships with Swapnopuron Welfare Society and Adhigam Bhoomi, mPokket extends its commitment to providing quality education and holistic development opportunities to underserved and underprivileged children.