Archive: January 31, 2023

Pre-Budget Expectations by various industry leaders on the same.

1. Mr. Kalyan C Korimerla, MD & Co-Promoter, Etrio Automobiles
“To emerge stronger in realizing the fullest potential of the ongoing electric mobility revolution, it is imperative that as a nation India must make its manufacturing capacities stronger and fortify its localized supply chains. We at Etrio believe that the upcoming Union Budget should focus on introducing more schemes and policies to support innovation and capacity-building and to reward EV adoption.

To ensure that commercial or cargo EV adoption does not remain limited to the larger industry players, the Budget must incentivize small businesses and MSMEs to join the ICE to EV transition bandwagon as well. Furthermore, we would like to see Ease of Investing, Tax Rationalisation, and EV Skilling & Upskilling as the guiding principles for the sectoral announcements in Budget 2023.”

2. Ms. Shalu Jha, Co-founder & COO, PRandit Solutions:
For many years now, the soft power of today’s media outlets in showcasing our country’s socio-economic prowess as well their contribution to creating an impeccable reputation for today’s businesses and entrepreneurs has been ignored, or at best, utilized minimally or partially. And keeping the same in mind, the Government in this year’s Budget must work towards reversing the existing scenario and offer adequate sops/incentives and other enabling pathways to allow stakeholders to be able to leverage the optimal potential of new-age media and traditional media platforms. Since now is the right time and also high time we bring emerging technologies to the forefront vis-à-vis India’s efforts to uplift the media sector, I expect that media-tech is being provided a priority sector status in the Union Budget 2023, which in turn will lead to more and more media-tech innovations and startups to be able to flourish in India in the longer run. Lastly, we also hope to see some more stimulus packages and progressive policy moves focusing on the growth of India’s entrepreneurial community at large, and women entrepreneurs in particular.

3. Mr. Alok Katiyar, Co-Founder, WeClinic Homeopathy
“In order to achieve our goal of being a healthier and fitter nation, it is imperative and the need of the hour for India to move towards cutting-edge tech-enabled healthcare systems. And simultaneously, we as a nation must also focus dedicatedly on ensuring that healthcare services can reach every nook and corner of India. So, we at WeClinic Homeopathy feel that the upcoming Union Budget 2023 should prioritize introducing more innovative schemes and policies that would aid the long-term growth of telemedicine, AYUSH-based healthcare, and tech-enabled health systems.

As of date, a very small portion of the overall budget allotted for the healthcare sector has been designated for the AYUSH space in the previous years’ budgets; but in the upcoming Budget, we expect it to increase substantially. Furthermore, the Government should also focus on the opening of new hospitals and primary health centers for AYUSH treatments.”

4. Abhishek Jain, Fellow & Director, Powering Livelihoods, Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW)
“In 2022, the government released a dedicated policy framework to promote Decentralised Renewable Energy applications for livelihoods. We hope that this significant example of pursuing the trifecta of jobs, growth, and sustainability, would find fiscal allocations in the upcoming budget to start realizing the vision of the policy framework.”

5. Dr. Akshay Singhal, CEO & Founder, Log9 Materials
To accelerate the penetration of EVs in the country, in the upcoming Union Budget 2023, the Government should include EVs in Priority Sector Lending (PSL) in order to make financing EVs cheaper and making them more affordable for the masses. Also, when it comes to incentives and financial enablers, the Government must take into consideration not just the volumes of production committed by manufacturers, but also the technological superiority of the vehicles and battery technologies in terms of safety, longevity, and fast-charging so as to ensure only the best reaches the final customers.

6. Mr. Ankit Alok Bagaria, Co-Founder, of Loopworm

We at Loopworm feel that the upcoming Union Budget 2023 must attempt to positively transform the agriculture and biotechnology sectors in India from a differentiated lens.

When it comes to the agriculture sector in India, we have seen in the previous years that most of the time the budgetary money allocated goes into various subsidies or loans. While loans and subsidies are important for agri-stakeholders, the grant money to scale up innovative ideas to PoC to pilots to commercialization is minimal. On the other hand, the Indian biotechnology space also faces a similar dilemma. In the previous year’s Budget, a significantly large part of the allocated amount that went to the Department of Biotechnology was spent on autonomous bodies and institutes focussing on biotech research; however, the support provided in terms of commercialization to start-ups or corporates remained limited.

Thus, in the upcoming Budget of 2023, we would be happy to see more focus and support given towards supporting the commercialization of biotechnology companies or start-ups. Given that biotech machinery and equipment is quite expensive in India today, financial support with loans and subsidies could help a lot in accelerating commercialization and scale-up. On the other hand, when it comes to agri-allied or agri-tech innovations and startups, we expect the Budget 2023 to make scale-up grants available as well, independent of whether or not any start-up has availed a smaller grant previously. If the start-up is ready, they should be helped with the money to scale up. Furthermore, the Budget should also be promoting precision agriculture and unconventional forms of agriculture such as Algae farming, insect farming, etc. with special allocations or incentives.

Pre-Budget Quote from Mr. Sameer Kanodia – Managing Director and CEO of Lumina Datamatics Limited

“The global economic outlook is not very favorable. A recession and hence slowdown appears to be in the cards. The Indian current account is in deficit. Hence, we need to encourage exports. The government ought to lower the interest rate relating to exports. Consumers are absorbing content more rapidly than in the past. While print, the traditional method, of content consumption is mature, the digital format is growing exponentially. This trend is expected to continue.The world of eCommerce is growing very rapidly. Thanks to digital technology, one is able to purchase goods and services remotely. Online is the future because it is a more efficient supply chain. The budget should not discourage eRetail.”

Columbia Pacific Communities Publishes “The Little Book of Greatness”: A Book Outlining the Six Pillars of “Positive Ageing”

Mumbai/New Delhi, January 31, 2023: Columbia Pacific Communities (CPC), India’s largest and the most preferred operator of senior living communities, honors the spirit and principle of positive ageing, by launching a book titled ‘The Little Book of Greatness’. This unique book has been carefully curated to feature six senior citizens who have led and continue to lead extraordinary lives by embracing the six principles of ‘positive ageing,’ which is the core philosophy of CPC.

The purpose of the book is to popularise and increase awareness about the concept of positive ageing, which is a simple idea that enables seniors to age positively and assists them in leading longer, healthier, happier, more connected lives. Physical Fitness, Mental Well-being, Emotional Soundness, Nutritional Enhancement, Intellectual Prowess, and Spiritual Enlightenment are the six pillars of positive ageing that the book highlights.

The book is divided into six sections, each of which represents a different pillar of positive ageing. Each section chronicles the life of a senior who is an emblem of the said pillar and describes how they lead an exemplary and spirited life. Ad Guru Prahlad Kakkar (72), Masterchef Tamil finalist Senguttuvan Subburathina (73), veteran journalist and author Bachi Karkaria (77), potli maker Latika Chakravorti (92), centenarian Mr. Sarathy (101), and spiritual devotee John Lazaro (75) are the six seniors who share their incredible life stories and philosophies in the book.

Speaking on the launch, Mohit Nirula, Chief Executive Officer, of Columbia Pacific Communities said, “This book details the experiences of inspiring individuals who have managed to decipher what it means to lead a full, happy, and content life with countless opportunities at every turn. I’m thrilled to be launching this book that perfectly embodies what Columbia Pacific Communities (CPC) stands for, which is to inspire and empower people to live better lives by embracing positive ageing in their lifestyles, whether or not they are seniors. The fascinating true stories in this book provide some excellent life lessons, lessons that encourage one to live a more fulfilling life.”

Dr. Karthiyayini Mahadevan, Head of Wellness and Wellbeing at Columbia Pacific Communities, said, “The six pillars of positive ageing, which have been defined from a medical perspective, are physical fitness, mental wellbeing, emotional soundness, nutritional enhancement, intellectual prowess, and spiritual enlightenment. You can discover the inspiring lives of several notable seniors in the pages of this small book, including one of the most respected men in advertising in the nation who attributes his success to emotional intelligence, a veteran journalist and author with a keen intellect, a Master Chef who wants to change the way people eat, a centenarian who finds happiness and comfort in walking, a woman who reinvented herself in her 90s, and a devoutly spiritual golden ager who bravely fought life’s most difficult battles. Each one is an intriguing story of ardor, commitment, tenacity, and delight.”

Speaking on the launch, Bachi Karkaria, Indian journalist and columnist said, “It is always a pleasure working for Columbia Pacific Communities if only in my limited capacity as a journalist. I would like to thank the team for making me a part of this so-needed project for seniors. I love their sensitivity and professionalism. I wish the project the very best.”

Ninth Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) organized by IHC and IIHM inaugurated today

International IIHM Young Chef Olympiad (YCO), the biggest event in the annual calendar of International Hospitality Council (IHC) and the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), is returning in its 9th edition to mark a new chapter in the stellar legacy of this global event. After being held virtually for the last two editions owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, the much-awaited Olympiad is back in its physical form. It’s an exciting time as IIHM campuses across six cities of India Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa, Bangalore, Pune and Kolkata, gear up to host the 9th International Young Chef Olympiad 2023, from 29th January 2023 to 4th February 2023. This year, the event is bigger and more ambitious than ever before and is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India in addition to the Governments of 10 Indian States.

With over 50 countries participating this year, the grand and star-studded event of global proportions has new countries including Australia, The Netherlands, Egypt, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Azerbaijan and Tanzania, in the fray.

YCO 2023 is a joint initiative of the International Hospitality Council (IHC) UK and IIHM. The 7-day intense competition will be overseen by a 28-member Grand Jury featuring the who’s who of the culinary and hospitality world.
Padma Shri Chef Sanjeev Kapoor is the Principal Mentor for YCO in India and globally acclaimed Chefs Andreas Muller and John Wood are Co-Chief Judges. Prof. David Foskett is Chairman, YCO Grand Jury; Paul Jervis is the Chief Adjudicator; Peter Jones is the Research Chair.

The Grand Jury comprises renowned culinary exponents including Celebrity Chef Ranveer Brar, Michelin Star Chef Manjunath Mural from Singapore, Chef Mario Perera- Executive Chef of The Dorchester Collection, Chef Gary Maclean, National Chef of Scotland; and renowned Chocolatier and Pâtissier Chef Sarah Hartnett, among others.

The competition will be inaugurated on 29th January with the IIHM-YCO International Congress on Sustainability in Tourism and Hospitality in Delhi, and the participants will compete in the intermediate rounds of the competition in Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad or Goa. The consecutive rounds will take place in the Cultural Capital, Kolkata. The Top 10 contestants will compete for the gold, silver and bronze trophies. Contestants placed from position 11 to 20 will compete for the Plate Trophy and the remaining participants will compete for the Dr Bose Challenge Trophy. The winners of these three categories along with all other award winners will be announced at the closing awards ceremony on 4th February, in Kolkata. While the Gold winner will be awarded a US$5,000 prize, the Silver winner will bag US$3,000 and the Bronze winner US$2,000.

On the occasion, Dr. Suborno Bose, Chairman of YCO Global Council, who has conceptualized and guided this event since its inception in 2015, said, “The 9th International YCO is the first major Culinary Olympiad post-pandemic anywhere in the world. The theme this year is premised on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which assumes great significance in light of India’s G20 Presidency, and will sensitize young chefs from around the world to the critical importance of sustainability in the field of hospitality.”

In addition to sustainability, YCO 2023 is focused specifically on promoting original, natural grains viz. Millets, primarily owing to 2023 being declared as the International Year of Millets.

CABT Logistics brings Shailesh Sharma on board as Associate Director, Human Resources

31st Jan, Gurgaon: CABT Logistics, one of India’s leading logistics companies is expanding on its infrastructural stronghold. With strategic investment in manpower to optimize operations, CABT Logistics is looking at beefing up the team to 3000+ employees.

To ensure the right talent acquisition to aid the company in its expansion phase, CABT Logistics has got on board Shailesh Sharma as Associate Director, Human Resources at CABT Logistics. Shailesh Sharma will be designing and developing policies, procedures, and systems for optimizing HR. He is responsible for the automation of HR, Audits and Compliance, Organisation restructuring, and Development and People management. With the current expansion and growth, CABT Logistics had a turnover of INR 120 Cr in FY21.

With more than two decades of experience with brands like NY CINEMAS, NIRVANA PHARMA LTD, and BLUE STAR ENERGY & PRODUCTION (NIG) COMPANY LTD. Shailesh is responsible for directing day-to-day HR strategies/operations at CABT Logistics Corporate Office in Gurugram including Zonal Offices at North (Gurugram), South (Bangalore), East (Kolkata), and West (Mumbai). Helming the HR department and People management of CABT group PAN India, he is translating the business vision into an HR initiative that improves business performance, profitability, growth, and employee engagement.

Initiating audits, assessment, and analytics for people development, Shailesh is aiding CABT Logistics with Manpower planning, budgeting, and sourcing. Working on HR business strategic plan, strategic staffing, strategic design, and control, he empowers the company by lending a unique perspective and appreciation of human capital which is an organization’s greatest asset.

“CABT Logistics is working with multiple clients both established and young. We ensure that we are facilitating operations for our clients and Shailesh will help us achieve the same. Hiring the right talent is crucial to optimizing operations and ensuring company health. We are looking forward to working with SHailesh to ensure that the right people join the team and help us meet client demands.”, shared Shailesh Kumar, Founder of CABT Logistics

“I am glad to be a part of CABT Logistics and aid in their growth. The company is growing by leaps and bounds and changing the face of logistics. At this crucial stage in its growth, I will ensure that we strengthen the team with the right talent and smoothen operations.”, shared Shailesh Sharma Associate Director, Human Resources at CABT Logistics.

Pre-Budget Quote from GajShield Infotech

GajShield Infotech Quote: Sonit Jain, CEO – GajShield Infotech

Government is committed to deregulating the economy and ushering in systemic reforms. It has preempted the need for Information Technology and is committed to augmenting inclusive growth across all sectors. Our PM’s vision of India can usher in an era of increasing digitization with Web 3.0, Artificial Intelligence, and regular Tech Disruptions. Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), which functions as the federal agency to address the country’s cyber security, has led to diminishing momentum of cyber attacks on government infrastructure. This year, we look forward to government creating a policy framework for companies in India to implement data security and build a strong eco-system to fuel digital growth in India. We also hope to see budget allocation towards Cyber Security training to help build the required skills in people which will help to protect our digital infrastructure and defend our country against cyber attacks.

Toh din koi bhi ho, Confidence roz hoga! Zivame showcases this in its new brand campaign #WearYourConfidence

Mumbai, January 31st, 2023: Zivame, India’s No 1 intimate wear brand, announces the launch of its new brand campaign #WearYourConfidence, encouraging women to confidently seize the day. The core insight behind the campaign is that confidence is needed in every aspect of our lives, in our every day. And the right intimate wear designed for your body empowers you to confidently take on any day.

The film showcases women across various life stages and different situations, confidently seizing the day with the right intimate wear by their side. From a teenager taking on a hectic school day with the right support to a mature woman taking on new fitness challenges with the confidence of the right fit, from a newbie mom handling the challenges of a new life stage without compromising on comfort, to a group of young women enjoying carefree moments of joy, the campaign showcases how the right fit on the inside makes you confident on the outside. The campaign celebrates inclusivity and showcases that we all need that dose of confidence to power through the hurdles of everyday life.

Zivame has always led the charge in changing perceptions of the intimate wear category in India and this campaign showcases how intimate wear, that fits right empowers every woman to feel her confident best.

Lavanya Pachisia COO of Zivame, said “Our campaign celebrates every Indian woman and her diverse everyday, from the mundane to the special, and how with the right intimate wear by her side, she can put her most confident foot forward”.

Sonal Chhajerh, Group Executive Creative Director, Leo Burnett, Mumbai, said, “The right intimate wear can give women the confidence to take on any day. The campaign brings alive how each day brings the need for a different kind of confidence, and there is a Zivame for her every need”.

Credits:

•  Creative Agency: Leo Burnett
•  Production House: Prodigious Films
•  Director: Jessica Sadna

Milind Soman named brand ambassador for 9th Hiranandani Thane Half Marathon

Mumbai,  January 2023: Milind Soman, a fitness icon, has been appointed as the ambassador for the Hiranandani Group’s Half Marathon, which will be held in Thane on Feb 12, 2023. The 9th Hiranandani Thane Half Marathon is Thane’s only major marathon, which is returning after two years of hiatus due to Covid19.

As the event is gearing up to see 15,000 runners, Milind Soman with his focus on health and fitness is a natural fit to be the brand ambassador and flag off the ninth edition of the Hiranandani Thane Half Marathon (HTHM) at Hiranandani Estate in Thane.

To build more awareness around sustainability, the Hiranandani Group started the #RhymeForEarth initiative and has been organizing cyclotrons and logging drives. The developer takes this initiative a step further with the Hiranandani Thane Half Marathon.

Mr. Prashin Jhobalia, VP, of Marketing Strategy, House of Hiranandani, “It is an honor to be able to organize Thane’s biggest half marathon. This is our 9th edition of the marathon. Each year has been special with a rise in registration numbers. We began with 8000 registrations in 2013 and this year we aspire for 15000 registrations. We owe immense gratitude to our residents and Thane city for their contagious spirit of running every year. This marathon is the perfect representation of bringing communities together for a common goal amidst the best living infrastructure in Hiranandani Estate.

This marathon gets even more special as we ‘Run for Earth’ to create a better world. We are also delighted to have fitness icon Milind Soman as the brand ambassador of this year’s marathon. I am confident his presence will encourage everyone and will also help us achieve our sustainable goals.

Mr. Milind Soman, “I‘m excited to announce that I will now be a part of Thane’s biggest Half Marathon by Hiranandani Group. I truly appreciate the brand’s endeavor to provide the best living experiences by maintaining an equilibrium in nature. The infrastructure created by the brand encourages the community to stay fit and run. This year’s theme pledges to make an effort toward a sustainable future. I am glad to contribute to this aim because it is also our common goal to motivate others to run for the environment and for themselves.”

#RhymeForEarth is a larger initiative by the House of Hiranandani to promote the need for a sustainable lifestyle and encourages everyone to make a difference in their daily lives to contribute to a greener tomorrow. The 9th edition of the Hiranandani Thane Half Marathon is based on #RunForEarth, part of the larger initiative, and is intended to correspond with the company’s mission, which prioritizes sustainability and the well-being of nature and its inhabitants.