Archive: October 3, 2023

TCI Group conducts Pan-India blood donation drive to commemorate the memory of Founder

India, 03 October, 2023: – TCI Group pays homage to its esteemed Founder Chairman, Shri Prabhu Dayal Agarwal Ji, by continuing its annual tradition of nationwide blood donation camps. Shri Prabhu Dayal Ji, renowned as the ‘Pioneer of the Indian Transport Industry,’ left an indelible mark in logistics, health, education, and women empowerment, notably pioneering private blood banks in India.

In a tribute to this enduring legacy, TCI Group conducted a six-day blood donation drive from September 11th to 16th 2023, spanning 40 locations across India, including Ahmedabad, Gurgaon, Jaipur, Mumbai, Bhiwadi, Pune, Kolhapur, Patna, Raipur, Chandigarh, Hisar, Varanasi, Haridwar and Nelmangala. This remarkable initiative witnessed an active participation of 1500+ employees and external associates, consisting of both men and women.

Shri PD Ji’s legacy lives on through initiatives like these blood donation camps, embodying his commitment to humanity and offering hope to those in need. TCI Group’s pan-India blood donation drive reflects the enduring impact of Shri Prabhu Dayal Agarwal Ji’s legacy, upholding values of compassion, service, and community. Through such endeavors, TCI Group honors his memory and carries forward his kind vision.

The Festive Season Sparks Job Opportunities in Home Appliances and Retail Industries: foundit Insights Tracker

Mumbai, October 03, 2023 – foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME), India’s leading talent platform, published the foundit Insights Tracker (fit), presenting the latest findings on hiring trends for September 2023.

Hiring dipped 2% month-over-month, according to the latest tracker. In addition, e-recruitment activities in India fell by 8% in September 2023 compared to September 2022. The index dropped from 277 in September 2022 to 255 in September 2023. While hiring has stagnated, India’s economic prospects appear promising due to its expanding online consumer market, continued digitization and innovation, green transition initiatives, infrastructure investments and policy reforms.

Offering a hiring overview for September 2023, Sekhar Garisa, CEO, foundit (previously Monster APAC & ME), a Quess company, said, “India is experiencing a temporary hiatus in hiring as companies focus on upskilling their current employees to the changing landscape before hiring new talent. However, our economic prospects are bright and resilient against global headwinds. The rise in real wages and disposable incomes is boosting demand, particularly in private health insurance, retail, and consumer durables. Additionally, improved access to finance, infrastructure upgrades, green initiatives, and policy reforms further contribute to a favourable business environment that fosters job creation. However, addressing the need for upskilling is crucial for realising this potential as the rise and percolation of AI in every sector is inevitable.”

Festive Season Fuels Job Opportunities in Home Appliances and Retail Industry

On a month-on-month (M-o-M) basis, the Home Appliances (+11%) industry showed the maximum incline in job postings, followed by Oil/ Gas/ Petroleum, Power (+10%) and Retail (+9%). The notable growth in the Home Appliances and retail industry can be attributed to the onset of the festive season. Meanwhile, the Oil/Gas/Petroleum/Power sector experienced an upswing in response to the escalating demand for energy, driven by India’s rapidly growing economy and demographic advantages. In alignment with this trend, India’s energy demand is expected to grow at about 3% per annum by 2040, compared to the global rate of 1%.

Additionally, the Office Equipment/Automation sector observed a 7% surge in e-recruitment activities in September. Organisations are progressively moving away from the hybrid and work-from-home model, instead opting to bring employees back to the office to facilitate in-person collaboration and bolster operational efficiency.

The Import/ Export sector continues to struggle, with a 24% drop in job posting activity online, followed by Banking/ Financial Services, Insurance (-8%), and Agro-based industries (-8%). The export sector remains stagnant, grappling with persistent global headwinds, notably in key markets like the USA and Europe.”

Kolkata’s Job Market Grows by 2% as Festive Spirit Boosts Opportunities

The data showcases a mixed picture of the job market in different regions. Kolkata stands out with a 2% increase in hiring, indicating a modest growth in job opportunities in the city. This could be attributed to the onset of the festive season with the city gearing up for Durga Puja. The city witnessed significant economic activity during September due to the festival’s extensive preparations, increase in tourism, and cultural festivities.

However, the majority of Indian cities exhibited stagnant or negative hiring trends. Cities like Hyderabad, Pune and Chennai show no significant change in hiring percentages, suggesting a relatively stable but not necessarily expanding job market.

On the other hand, several cities, including Bangalore, Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad, experience a decline in hiring percentages, with the latter two cities facing the most significant decrease at -5%. However, these negative trends are merely seasonal fluctuations and job creation in these areas is soon expected to pick up.

Alternative Legal Service Providers (ALSPs) Drive 21% Growth in Online Legal Hiring

Legal roles topped the list of job functions with a 21% increase in online hiring activity. The legal roles within corporates, along with the alternative legal service providers (ALSPs) experienced remarkable growth. Furthermore, the Marketing/Communications sector saw a notable 6% surge in demand, likely fueled by the sustained need for digital marketing and public relations professionals. This uptick underscores the industry’s growing reliance on experts who can navigate the evolving landscape of digital marketing and communication strategies.

There was a downward trend in hiring for Finance & Accounts (-7%), followed by Senior Management positions (-6%) and Customer Service positions (-3%). This month, the demand for hiring in sales and development and software, hardware, and telecommunications roles was moderate.

IT-Software Sector Leads with 47% Share in Remote and Hybrid Jobs

In the current job market, characterised by a global economic slowdown, employers hold the upper hand. However, employees continue to prefer flexibility and a better work-life balance strongly.

Current statistics reveal that 21% of job opportunities are structured around a hybrid work model, while only 12% are designated for full-time remote work. Intriguingly, 49% of job seekers actively seek opportunities in hybrid roles, and 28% prefer fully remote positions. This disparity between demand and availability underscores the enduring importance job seekers place on work models that blend in-office and remote options.

The IT-Software and Services sector stands out, dominating remote and hybrid job opportunities distribution, claiming the highest share at 47%. Following closely, the Recruitment, Staffing, and RPO sector secures a notable presence with 21%, highlighting the industry’s responsiveness to flexible work models. Additionally, the Advertising, Market Research, and Public Relations sectors secure a 6% share, showing a moderate inclination towards remote and hybrid work arrangements.

Nokia 2660 gets UPI Scan & Pay Feature, including the existing users

Mumbai/Bangalore, 3rd October’ 2023 – HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, has introduced an exciting new feature to its classic Nokia 2660 Flip phones – UPI Scan and Pay functionality. This allows users to make secure and convenient digital transactions with a simple button press. This feature would not only be available to the new buyers of Nokia 2660 Flip, but HMD is ensuring that the existing users are also not left out. HMD has already rolled out the software update to the existing base and thereby ensuring the digital payment inclusion for everyone. The phones now also comes in two striking new colors: Pop Pink and Lush Green. The Nokia 2660 Flip is a classic flip phone with a resilient clamshell design. It has a rear camera for capturing photos, an incredibly long-lasting battery, and essential features like SMS and calls. The return of the classic Snake game adds a touch of nostalgia to the mix.

HMD Global has seen a remarkable twofold increase in its flip phone market share year-over-year, comparing 2021 to 2022. The company anticipates further growth in 2023 as more people opt for these devices to detach from their smartphones and re-engage with their communities. The flip design of the Nokia 2660 Flip simplifies call handling by bringing the microphone and earpiece closer to the user’s face. A generous 2.8-inch display and user-friendly interface eliminate any ambiguity, while the front display ensures incoming calls are easily recognizable. An emergency button provides added security, enabling quick contact with loved ones in emergencies and notifying up to five contacts for swift assistance.

The Nokia 2660 Flip ensures clear call quality with adjustable volume settings and compatibility with hearing aids (HAC), ensuring a comfortable calling experience. It has undergone rigorous durability tests, enduring tens of thousands of flip cycles, thanks to its robust polycarbonate construction. HMD Global’s launch of the Nokia 2660 Flip in new colors with UPI Scan and Pay functionality is a timely response to the growing demand for feature phones that offer a balance of convenience and nostalgia. The phone is well-suited for users who want to reduce their screen time, reconnect with the world around them, and make digital payments with ease.

Finolex Cables Expands Operations with the inauguration of Finolex Hub in Bengaluru

New Delhi, Oct 03, 2023: Finolex Cables Limited, a leading manufacturer of electrical and communication cables in India, announced the inauguration of its new, expansive warehouse facility in Nelamangala, Bengaluru. With 40,000 square feet of usable space indoors and an additional 20,000 square feet of open storage outdoors, this new warehouse is designed to cater to the evolving needs of modern logistics and distribution networks, to enhance operational capacity and customer service.

Located strategically in the heart of Nelamangala near Bengaluru, this modern warehouse facility is equipped with five dedicated loading and unloading docks, ensuring seamless and efficient logistics operations. The warehouse’s prime location and state-of-the-art infrastructure will enable Finolex Cables to serve its valued customers and dealers in the Southern region even more effectively.

The 40,000 square feet of indoor space with an impressive clear height of 6.3 meters provides ample room for storing its product range of wires & cables, fans, water heaters, switches, lighting, switchgears etc. while the 20,000 square feet of outdoor storage space allows the company to accommodate larger shipments and meet growing demands of its customers. It is also equipped with the industry leading Ground plus 4 racking systems. Five loading and unloading docks will also help in streamlining the process of receiving and dispatching goods, reducing lead times and ensuring timely deliveries.

Mr. Deepak K. Chhabria, Executive Chairman, Finolex Cables Ltd., said, “We are thrilled to inaugurate our new warehouse facility in Nelamangala, Bengaluru. With this state-of-the-art warehouse, we are not only increasing our operational efficiency but also reinforcing our dedication to providing top-quality products and services to our valued clients. This strategic move represents a significant step forward in our journey to serve the ever-evolving needs of the industry. We look forward to the positive impact this facility will have on our operations and help us deliver to customer expectations.”

Mr. Amit Mathur, President – Sales & Marketing, Finolex Cables, commenting on the new Finolex hub launch said, “The new warehouse is a strategic investment that will empower us to deliver even more effectively to our customers. This expansion allows us to respond more rapidly to our customers’ requirements, maintain larger inventories, and continue offering the high-quality products and services that Finolex Cables is known for. We are excited about the growth prospects this facility unlocks for us in the South Indian region. “

The inauguration of this new warehouse aligns with Finolex Cables’ mission to continually improve its operations and strengthen its presence in key markets. Finolex Cables has previously ventured into the Fast-Moving Electrical Goods (FMEG) sector which have been highly acclaimed by consumers. The company’s growth can be attributed to its strategic approach, including the establishment of state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and consistent capacity expansion to meet the dynamic needs of the market.

Cult.sport launches the Ace X Smartwatch: Formal meets Fitness

Mumbai, October 3rd, 2023: Cult.sport, India’s leading provider of Sports and fitness apparel, equipment, and supplement, announced the launch of its new versatile smartwatch, the Ace X series, set to revolutionize your daily life and active journey. Combining classic sophistication with state-of-the-art fitness tracking technology, the Ace X Series offers a unique selection of strap options, including Silicone, leather, and Steel – allowing you to effortlessly switch between a formal look and a sport-ready style.

Boasting a stunning 1.96″ AMOLED Display with a resolution of 466×466 pixels, the Ace X Smartwatch offers a visual experience like no other. Whether you’re checking the time or tracking your fitness progress, the vibrant display ensures clarity in every detail. Additionally, it offers comprehensive health tracking features, including continuous heart rate monitoring, SP02 monitoring, sleep tracking, step counting, and calorie tracking, ensuring that you stay in tune with your wellness goals. It comes with a Single Chip Advanced Bluetooth Calling with one-tap pairing and BLE 5.3 technology. The Quick Dial Pad simplifies communication, making it easier than ever to stay connected.

“The Ace X series smartwatch is a game-changer in wearable tech,” said Shamik Sharma, Business Head at Cult.sport. “It effortlessly blends timeless style with top-notch sports features, giving you the perfect all-in-one companion. And for our cricket enthusiasts, you will get live updates even when you’re on the move so that you do not miss out on the upcoming Cricket World Cup.”

Unique features like the Functional Crown, Always on Display, Quick Reply, and Social Media QR Code enhance your daily interactions and productivity. Whether you’re in a meeting or at the gym, this smartwatch adapts to your needs. For everyday athletes, the Automatic Sports Recognition feature identifies activities like running, walking, treadmill workouts, cycling, and rowing exercises. With 113 sports modes available, you can track your progress across various physical activities effortlessly.

The Ace X Smartwatch will be available in a variety of colors, including Black Silicone, Blue Silicone, Grey Silicone (Ace X), and ACE X LUXE with options like Brown Leather, Blue Leather, Silver Steel, and Black Steel.

Krypton (India) Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Unveils Cutting-Edge Manufacturing Facility in Grand Inauguration

KARNATAKA, INDIA – October 3, 2023 – Krypton (India) Solutions Pvt. Ltd., a global leader in electronics manufacturing, marked a momentous occasion with the grand inauguration of their expanded state-of-the-art factory recently that is poised to revolutionize R&D, New Product Introduction and High-Volume Manufacturing in India. The investment into this high-capacity facility signifies Krypton’s commitment to advancing manufacturing innovation in the electronics industry.

The new facility, situated at Electronic City, Bangalore, is a testament to Krypton’s dedication to excellence and technological prowess. Equipped with the most cutting-edge equipment available globally, it will serve as a hub for advanced electronics manufacturing in India, elevating the country’s capabilities in the sector.

Suresh Patel, Chairman of Krypton Solutions, expressed his enthusiasm for this remarkable milestone: “Today, we embark on a journey towards redefining the future of electronics manufacturing in India. This new facility is a testament to our dedication to innovation, quality, and the growth of the electronics industry in this country. We are not just expanding our physical footprint, but we are expanding possibilities for India’s technological future.” Furthermore, Suresh Patel hinted at Krypton’s ambitious growth plans, saying, “This expansion is just the beginning. We have exciting plans for the future, including further investments and collaborations that will propel India to the forefront of electronics manufacturing. And I thank IESA for the excellent support given to us till now for this inauguration to happen in time and smoothly”

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Mr. Darshan H.V., Managing Director, Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society, (KITS), Govt of Karnataka, who was also the Chief Guest where he said in his remarks “I would like to congratulate Krypton Solutions on the grand inauguration of this state-of-the-art facility. I am sure the Government of Karnataka will take immense pride in this establishment. This will be the start of high-volume manufacturing from one more big US company from Karnataka. The new Krypton (India) Solutions Pvt. Ltd. factory is set to redefine the electronics manufacturing landscape in India and will contribute significantly towards the nation’s technological advancement. Bangalore is also becoming the electronics manufacturing fulcrum of India. Krypton’s commitment to advancing electronics manufacturing aligns perfectly with India’s vision for a robust electronics ecosystem in India. ” With its unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability, Krypton is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the electronics manufacturing industry in India by manufacturing for the world”. he added.

Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Chairman, IESA congratulated Krypto Solution on this great milestone and stated that “Krypton’s commitment to advancing electronics manufacturing harmonizes seamlessly with India’s ambition to foster a strong electronics ecosystem within the country. With its steadfast focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability, Krypton is well-positioned to take on a crucial role in shaping the future of the electronics manufacturing sector in India, serving not only the domestic market but also catering to global demands. IESA commits towards the co-development and Co-innovation of the Indian semiconductors ecosystem along with Industry partners”

India’s leading Edtech UNIVO doubles its hiring plans

New Delhi, 3rd October 2023: UNIVO – a leading online education provider – today announced plans to expand its workforce by 100% during FY2023-24. The Company’s steadfast commitment to revolutionizing online higher education has led to strong growth and a fivefold rise in its employee count from 200 to 1,000 in the last fiscal year (2022-23). This expansion spans diverse functions, including Technology, Marketing, and Sales, highlighting UNIVO’s resolve to augment its presence and influence across the edtech landscape.

As part of a rising growth trajectory, UNIVO recently inaugurated its second office in Bangalore. This state-of-the-art facility is a hub for technology and sales operations, emphasising the company’s consistent dedication to democratising higher education via vibrant technology and support services and a focus on improving employability.

With more than 60,000+ registered learners across 115+ countries, UNIVO has established itself as a global leader in the edtech landscape. Offering an extensive portfolio of more than 60 degree and certificate programs, the company facilitates Career Services partnerships with 500+ industry-leading organizations, enhancing the employability prospects of its learners.

“We are excited to embark on this journey of growth and innovation as UNIVO expands its workforce by 100% in the current fiscal year. Our recent accomplishments, including a significant increase in registered learners and the opening of the Bengaluru office, underscore the Company’s commitment to delivering world-class education through cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships,” said Abhishek Ajmera, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, UNIVO.

NTPC Records Remarkable Growth in Coal Production and Despatch

Mumbai, Oct 03, 2023: NTPC Ltd., India’s leading integrated power producer, has reported a substantial growth of 83% in coal production from its captive mines during H1 FY 2023-24, as compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. The company achieved an impressive coal production of 16.05 million metric tonnes (MMT) during H1 FY24, as compared to 8.76 MMT in H1 FY23.

In addition, NTPC has also achieved a coal despatch of 17.20 MMT in H1 FY24, marking a significant 94% increase over the previous year for the same period. This outstanding performance reflects NTPC’s relentless commitment to enhancing coal production from its captive mines and ensuring efficient supply to meet the nation’s energy needs.

To date, NTPC has produced about 85+ million metric tonnes (MMT) of coal from its four operational captive coal mines i.e. Pakri Barwadih & Chatt-Bariatu Coal Mines in Jharkhand, Dulanga Coal Mine in Odisha and Talaipalli Coal Mine in Chhattisgarh.

Further mine operations have also started from the Kerendari mine in April’23 and coal production is expected to start in the current fiscal. NTPC’s captive coal mining fits strategically in its backward integration initiative for providing fuel security to its power generation business.

To achieve sustained growth in coal production, NTPC has implemented a range of strategies and technologies. These include the adoption of rigorous safety measures, improved mine planning, equipment automation, workforce training, and the implementation of continuous monitoring and analysis systems. These initiatives have played a vital role in optimizing operations, enhancing productivity, and ensuring the safety of the workforce.

NTPC remains committed to delivering reliable and sustainable power to the nation. This remarkable growth in coal production and despatch is a testament to NTPC’s dedication to operational excellence and its contribution to meeting India’s energy demands. The company will continue to explore innovative technologies and sustainable practices to further enhance its performance and support the nation’s energy goals.

NTPC Ltd. is India’s largest integrated power utility, contributing 1/4th of the power requirement of the country. With a diverse portfolio of thermal, hydro, solar, and wind power plants, NTPC is dedicated to delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to the nation. The company is committed to adopting best practices, fostering innovation, and embracing clean energy technologies for a greener future.

Hisense Elevates Its Game with Cricket Sensation Ravindra Jadeja as Brand Ambassador

New Delhi, 3rd October 2023 — Hisense, the global leader in consumer electronics and home appliances, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ravindra Jadeja, the renowned cricketer and all-rounder, as its brand ambassador for the Television, AC, and Refrigerator categories. He is the company’s first ambassador in the Indian market. This strategic partnership underscores Hisense’s dedication to excellence, versatility, and innovation, reflecting Jadeja’s remarkable skills and popularity among young and aspirational consumers.

In line with Hisense’s global brand culture, which promotes sports and sports stars to engage with the youth, the company has embarked on an exciting journey in the world of cricket, aligning itself with the Hisense Group Philosophy. This pursuit of the Group’s culture brings Hisense into the realm of cricket, and it does so by partnering with none other than the leading all-rounder and a power pack performer of Team India – Sir Ravinder Jadeja.

Ravindra Jadeja, celebrated for his exceptional all-round abilities in cricket, epitomizes the spirit of Hisense’s diverse product range. Just as Jadeja excels in various facets of cricket, Hisense offers a comprehensive selection of products, ranging from cutting-edge televisions to energy-efficient air conditioners and dependable refrigerators. This collaboration represents a mutual commitment to versatility and excellence that resonates with consumers nationwide.

Incorporating a sports icon like Ravindra Jadeja into its brand ambassador portfolio is a momentous step for Hisense as the company continues to expand its presence in the Indian market. This partnership also strengthens its association with the worlds of sports and entertainment, showcasing the brand’s dedication to connecting with its consumers on a personal and meaningful level.

Commenting on the collaboration, Pranab Mohanty, CEO of Hisense India, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Ravindra Jadeja into the Hisense family as our brand ambassador for the Television, AC, and Refrigerator categories. This announcement is strategically timed with the Cricket World Cup starting in India soon and his exceptional skills, both on and off the cricket field, make him the perfect embodiment of our brand’s values. We believe that his association with Hisense will resonate with our young and aspirational consumers. Our deep understanding of the market underscores our commitment to reaching the very heart of Indian consumers, where their passion points lie, and we are determined to create a profound impact in their minds.”

Ravindra Jadeja, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, saying, “I am honored to be brand ambassador of Hisense, a brand that shares my passion for excellence and innovation to offer exceptional products and also is associated with some of the biggest & global sporting events across the world. Hisense’s diverse range of products mirrors my personality as an all-rounder in cricket. I look forward to being a part of the Hisense journey and connecting with the brand’s young and aspirational consumers.”

With this announcement, Hisense is also rolling out its campaign ‘’Perfecting the perfection’’ with Ravindra Jadeja in its first appearance with Hisense products like Television, AC, and Refrigerator. In this consumer engagement program, participants can win a 4K Hisense Smart TV.

This collaboration between Hisense and Ravindra Jadeja is a strategic move by Hisense to strengthen its presence in the Indian market and it marks the beginning of an exciting journey that promises to bring innovation, excellence, and versatility to Indian households. In this festive season Hisense is ready to roll out a slew of new and innovative TV’s like the U7K, U6K, and E7K which will bring the stadium experience to home for enjoying the upcoming cricket World Cup.