Archive: November 2, 2023

Sony India announces exciting festive offers for Diwali

New Delhi, 2nd November 2023: On the occasion of Diwali, Sony India announced its exclusive festive offers designed to bring customers a delightful shopping experience. With a wide range of lifestyle products, including cutting-edge BRAVIA XR TVs, immersive home theatre systems, high-quality headphones, cameras, and powerful party speakers, customers can now elevate their living space and entertainment setup at attractive prices and fantastic deals to enhance the joy of Diwali celebrations. Get offers here.

Commenting on these Diwali offers, Sunil Nayyar, Managing Director of Sony India, said, “The combination of festivities and cricket fever has sparked a positive trend in the market, especially for the television segment, as we see remarkable growth in the 140 cm (55) premium television segment. With the ongoing cricket World Cup, customers are gravitating towards larger screen sizes, with 189 cm (75) and 215 cm (85) televisions becoming increasingly popular choices. To complement the stunning visuals, our premium soundbars have seen a phenomenal response, elevating the home viewing experience to rival that of a cinema. Sony is proud to be the preferred choice for those seeking a cinematic experience at home. Our innovative technology and dedication to excellence make us the go-to brand for those who demand the best. We look forward to a positive Diwali, filled with joy, excitement, and unparalleled entertainment. Sony India wishes everyone a delightful and memorable celebration.”

1. Don’t settle for less, elevate your entertainment with Google TV Now. Choose BRAVIA XR televisions today and seize the opportunity for unbeatable prices. Loaded with the latest technologies, BRAVIA XR televisions provide a cinematic experience like no other. This festive season, Sony is offering up to a 30% discount, an instant cashback of up to Rs. 25,000/- and a 3-year comprehensive warranty on select BRAVIA TVs. Plus, customers can enjoy 1 EMI Free on select BRAVIA televisions. As a limited-period offer, customers can buy the new MASTER Series XR OLED 55A95L and. With BRAVIA CORE on Sony BRAVIA TVs, indulge in a vast selection of blockbusters, and embrace the limitless cinematic experiences today.

2. Revolutionize cinema at home entertainment setup with BRAVIA televisions and A series soundbar

To complement their Sony BRAVIA television purchase, customers can now – purchase a premium A-series soundbar. With a range of premium soundbar options to choose from, customers can tailor their cinema at-home setup as per their preferences and budget.

3. Avail unmatched combo offers on sound bars for an immersive audio experience

For audio enthusiasts, Sony presents unbeatable offers on a select range of soundbars. The HT-A9, a 7.1.4ch home theatre with wireless speakers, HT-A7000, HT-A5000, HT-A3000, H T-S2000, HT-S700RF, HT-S500RF, and HTS40R models are available at attractive prices along with purchase of BRAVIA 108cm (43) and above the television.

4. Enjoy unbelievable deals on best Noise Cancellation headphones and earbuds

Sony’s acclaimed WH-1000XM5, WH-XB910N, WH-CH720N, and WH-CH520 the best noise-canceling headphones are now available at a best buy  Sony India has announced a special festive offer for Bluetooth speakers SRS-XE300, SRS-XB100, and SRS-XE200 are now available at a best buy price.

5. Capture memorable moments with never before deals on Alpha cameras

This festive season, Sony is introducing ‘Like Never Before’ offers on the purchase of select cameras and lenses. On top of that, we have some exciting discounts on our select range of lenses.

The much-appreciated offer of a 2+1-year additional warranty available on Full-Frame Camera bodies is now extended to G Master and G Lenses (on the registration on Alpha community). Along with this, customers will also get a premium Jacket free upon the registration of G Master Lens on the Alpha community platform. Sony is also offering amazing finance offers such as instant and 1 EMI free on select G Master Lenses.

5. Add excitement to the festive celebrations with great offers on party speakers

For those looking to add more excitement to their Diwali celebrations, Sony’s party speakers SRS-XG300, SRS-XP500, SRS-XP700, SRS-XV800 and SRS-XV900 are the perfect choice. Customers can avail of special festive offers.

7. Avail easy finance offers

Enjoy easy EMIs along with multiple finance schemes with no processing fees with select finance partners. These special offers are valid for a limited time or until stocks last.

8. Experience robust retail network and service support

Sony India has a robust distribution network of over 12,000 dealers. We have a strong service network with 250+ authorised service centers and 350+ resident technicians in satellite towns to support home service for TV and Home Theatres. We have 2100+ well-trained expert installers to deliver best-in-class installation service to our premium television and soundbar customers. We are driving digital transformation across all customer touchpoints to make it convenient for our customers to reach out to us and have access to ‘self-help’ solutions. We are now using AI-powered Voice Bots to receive customer requests during non-business hours.

East of Kailash (B Block) RWA presents mesmerising ‘Diwali Cultural Evening

New Delhi, November 02, 2023: Residents Welfare Association (RWA) B Block, East of Kailash- a dedicated organisation for the welfare of people is thrilled to present ‘Diwali Cultural Evening’ in partnership with MITÉRA, the leading event marketing platform. The event will be held on 4 November 2023, from 4 pm onwards in the Ramesh Gupta Park, B Block, East of Kailash.

Celebrating the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance, RWAs believe that Diwali is all about sharing happiness and celebrating diversity, which will make this event a true harbinger of peace, harmony, and togetherness. The celebration will be marked by elaborate carnival exhibition stalls for shopping and games, sumptuous food, and thrilling entertainment from exhilarating dance performances from various dance groups, talent shows to exciting games and insta-worthy photo booths with creative props. The celebration night will be lit up by the lively and energetic spirit of the anchor, inviting guests to unwind and indulge in the festive pleasure of Diwali.

Excited about the Diwali festivities, Shri Anil Behl, General Secretary of RWA B Block, East of Kailash said, “Dedicated to representing the interests of the society, we’re delighted to bring diverse communities together under the ethos of this vibrant festival. Our experience over the last three years has reinforced the importance of the theme at the heart of Diwali: the symbolic victory of positivity over evil. Keeping in line with the essence of Deepavali, this year’s event will welcome the light into all of our lives, ringing in the message that hope is always important.”

Transcending all boundaries, the event will feature invigorating activities for all age groups, starting from family-centric like musical chairs, most Sanskari families, best costume, and much more. To make things equally stimulating for adults, the celebration will have power couple competitions and rapid-fire rounds. Additionally, the Bingo and Dandiya night will surely bring all guests under an umbrella of unity, promoting the motivating force of peace and unanimity.

Elated about being the marketing event partner of such an immaculate Diwali experience, Rajat Talwar CEO of MITÉRA said, “As we gather together to celebrate the joyous occasion of Deepavali, MITÉRA is grateful for the opportunity to be an integral part of such a grand celebration, hoping to deliver a mesmerising night encapsulating guests in a spell of awe and wonder.”

Ms. Atishi Singh, Cabinet Minister, Government of Delhi will grace the Diwali Cultural Evening by RWA, B block East of Kailash, with her presence as the honorable chief guest. The event is currently open for stall bookings and sponsorships. The RWA association with the inauguration of the event further aspires to add happiness, prosperity, and serenity to the lives of others, keeping entry free for everyone.

The Bison’s Tale of Resilience

By: Assaf Levy, BioDB

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Have you ever heard about the giant animals, the American Bison and the European Bison? These huge creatures have two different tales, but they are both fascinating. Let’s explore where they live, what’s happening with them today, and the fantastic efforts to keep them safe. In a world that’s changing fast, these bison are still symbols of wild beauty and the hard work of many people.

Meet the Mighty Bisons

Before we dive into their conservation, let’s get acquainted with the two bison species. First, let’s meet the American bison (Bison bison). These bison, often called American buffalo, naturally inhabit North America. They are the biggest land animals on this continent and are known for their humpbacked appearance. You can mostly spot them in the United States and Canada. Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton National Park are well-known spots for witnessing these impressive creatures in the United States. In Canada, bison populations thrive, particularly in Alberta and British Columbia. At one point, it’s believed there were tens of millions of them, but due to excessive hunting, loss of their natural habitats, and diseases, their numbers dropped dramatically, almost pushing them to the brink of extinction in the late 19th century. Today, they are considered “Near Threatened,” according to the IUCN.

Flickr, “American Bison” by Marco Verch Professional Photographer | CC BY 2.0 DEED

Now, let’s turn our attention to the European bison (Bison bonasus), also known as the wisent. These magnificent creatures inhabit the ancient woodlands and grasslands of Europe. You can find them in various European countries, including Poland, Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, and Lithuania, where they have established populations. One of the prime spots to catch a glimpse of these remarkable animals is the Białowieża Forest, stretching across the borders of Poland and Belarus. While they share some similarities with the American bison, European bison have subtle differences in their physical traits. These resilient creatures were once on the edge of vanishing from the wild, but thanks to dedicated efforts, their numbers have rebounded, even though they are still considered “Near Threatened” by the IUCN.

Pexels, European bison by Jozef Fehér | CC0

Current Status and Population of Bison

According to the population estimates, the bison population is categorized at both the species and subspecies levels. At the species level, a total population of 31,000 individuals is distributed across 68 conservation herds. Among these, the number of mature individuals falls between 11,000 to 13,000. The bison population at the subspecies level can be further broken down into Plains bison, accounting for 20,000 individuals, and Wood bison, with a population of 11,000 individuals. [1] These figures offer valuable insights into the current state of bison populations and underscore the significance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.

As the biggest wild land animal in Europe, the European bison used to roam freely all over the continent. But as time passed, hunting and losing their homes caused their living areas to get smaller and smaller. Things got so bad that by 1927, the very last wild European bison was killed in the Caucasus, and only 54 of them were kept in captivity. However, these bison have made an amazing comeback thanks to different plans to help them reproduce and release them back into the wild. In the last 10 years, the number of free European bison has gone from around 2,579 to 7,000. The biggest groups of these bison can be found in Belarus and Poland. [2]

Conservation Efforts

Bison conservation is a global mission that unites people across borders and communities and involves various crucial initiatives. One key effort is reintroduction programs, where organizations work hard to bring bison back to their original homes. These programs aim to bring balance to ecosystems and reestablish these magnificent animals in the places they once called home. In North America, bison ranching and commercializing bison products have emerged as a sustainable way to support bison conservation. The market for bison products is steadily growing, promoting the protection of these species. 

Additionally, conservation breeding programs in captive facilities are vital in increasing bison populations and ensuring the genetic diversity needed for their long-term survival. Another essential aspect of bison conservation is habitat restoration, which focuses on preserving and expanding the grasslands and woodlands where bison freely roam. 

Legal protection and creation of national parks and reserves have been significant factors in safeguarding bison populations. Notably, the American Bison earned the distinction of becoming the national mammal of the United States in 2016, underscoring its importance. Moreover, indigenous communities in North America have been prominent leaders in bison conservation efforts, with many tribes actively involved in restoring bison populations, considering these animals as essential to their cultures and traditions. 

Flickr, “European bison (Bison bonasus), Bialowieza, Poland” by Gregoire Dubois | CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED

In the world of bison conservation, the story is not just about safeguarding an animal; it’s about rekindling a deeper connection between humanity and the untamed spirit of the wild. Together, these initiatives form a vibrant, ever-evolving composition that reminds us that, with passion and persistence, we can revive the dreams of a harmonious coexistence with the wild. As bison once again thunder through the plains and forests, they serve as living testaments to the indomitable human spirit to preserve the magic of the untamed world.

The bison’s tale is one of hope, a reminder that our actions can make a difference. Will you join the effort to safeguard these living legends and their habitats? The future of the bison rests in our hands.

Resources:

[1] American Bison (Bison bison) Fact Sheet: Population & Conservation Status.” LibGuides, 16 May 2023, https://ielc.libguides.com/sdzg/factsheets/americanbison/population.

[2] Free-roaming bison population in the Southern Carpathians continues to thrive.” Rewilding Europe, 14 August 2023, https://rewildingeurope.com/blog/free-roaming-bison-population-in-the-southern-carpathians-continues-to-thrive/.

Hero Vired and UXDI Unveil Innovative UX Professional Diploma for Aspiring UX Designers

Mumbai, 2 November 2023: Hero Vired, India’s premium LearnTech company for professionals and higher education aspirants, has launched a professional diploma program on User Experience and User Interface (UX & UI). This cutting-edge program results from a strategic collaboration between Hero Vired and UXDI (UX Design Institute), widely acknowledged as the Gold Standard for UX certification within the industry. Through this dynamic partnership with UXDI, Hero Vired is committed to delivering a holistic and immersive learning journey, providing students with unparalleled access to industry experts and the latest trends in UX. As India’s internet user base surges, there is a growing demand for better digital interfaces. With 658 million users and a projected $800 billion digital economy by 2030, the UX/UI market is poised for significant growth. India’s potential in this sector is immense, offering opportunities to cater to the needs of a vast population seeking improved digital experiences. The program places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, offering practical projects and assignments that empower participants to gain invaluable experience in addressing real-world UX design challenges.

Considering the remarkable growth of the global UI and UX Design Software market, projected to expand at a remarkable CAGR of 22.25%, and anticipated to reach an impressive USD 3205.15 million by 2027, this program is strategically designed to meet the surging demand for highly skilled UI/UX professionals. Furthermore, this program is thoughtfully designed to be inclusive, welcoming learners from diverse backgrounds, with no specific prerequisites necessary, ensuring accessibility for all individuals aspiring to thrive in the exciting field of UX/UI design.

Talking about the new program, Mr. Akshay Munjal, Founder & CEO, of Hero Vired said, “With the Indian UX design industry expected to reach $9 billion by 2025, with a growth rate of 20%, UX/UI has become a pivotal driver of innovation and progress. Recognizing the transformative power of designing the new program aims to help the learners upskill themselves and foster new opportunities within a growing internet market. The one-of-a-kind collaboration with UX Design Institute strengthens our commitment to deliver transformative opportunities for individuals looking to thrive in design and user experience.”

“These roles are in high demand across various industries as organisations recognize the pivotal role that user experience plays in today’s digital landscape. Hero Vired’s expertise in technical online education coupled with our proficiency in the UX design sector will be a fruitful partnership for the industry and aspiring students”, quoted Colman Walsh, CEO of the UX Design Institute.

This intensive six-month, part-time program places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and industry applicability, with 80 hours of live sessions ensuring a comprehensive educational experience. The program is designed for any early-year working professional looking to transition to UI/UX and for early-year UI/UX professionals looking to upskill. Upon program completion, participants receive a coveted Professional Diploma, unlocking many career prospects, including roles such as UX Designer, UX Lead, or UX Researcher. The program’s central objective is to equip learners with the expertise necessary to excel in the ever-evolving field of UX/UI design, effectively bridging the gap between education and industry requirements.

Iss Baar Diwali Sabki Hai! With Roadcast’s new QR code campaign

2nd Nov 2023, New Delhi: As the shimmering lights of Diwali draw closer, RoadCast, India’s leading innovator in automotive technology, unveils an extraordinary solution to combat the common issue of double parking during the festive season in India. With their new campaign -“Iss Baar Diwali Sabki Hai!” RoadCast is on a mission to redefine Diwali celebrations and wave goodbye to the inconveniences of parking mayhem. Diwali, the grand festival of dazzling diyas, sweet treats, and heartfelt gatherings, is not all smooth sailing. The shopping trips can often turn bitter due to the infamous conundrum of double parking. This is where Roadcast has stepped in to save the day with its QR code solution!

The consumer can download the app, generate their very own QR code, and affix it to their vehicle. This simple step will allow people to promptly scan this QR code on your vehicle and get in touch with you in case they are inconvenienced by your parked car. Similarly, you can also scan the QR code on the other person’s vehicle in case you are the one stuck with their haphazard parking! One of the major advantages of this solution is privacy and safety. The QR code allows drivers to reach out to each other without the need to reveal or know any personal information.

“Today the number of vehicles on the road has increased drastically. During festivals, this number increases multifold. This issue of inconveniences like double parking is an everyday issue but even more frustrating during festivities. The idea of this QR code is not just about technology, it’s about bringing convenience, safety and harmony to the festivities. It is safe as no one has to give out their personal information like contact number and it is convenient because it takes just seconds to scan the code and contact the driver”, shared Vishal Jain, Co-Founder at Roadcast.

After all, Kyunki sabka hai tyohar, kisi ko kyu pareshan karna yaar? Chota sa hi toh hai, lagale na QR!”

Helmet Manufacturers Association Urges Strict Enforcement of ISI Standards as Over 50,000 Bike Accidents Claim Lives in 2022

Date: November 2, 2023, A recently released report by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has revealed alarming statistics regarding road accidents in 2022, with over 50,000 individuals losing their lives in bike accidents due to not wearing helmets. The report, titled ‘Road Accidents in India – 2022,’ disclosed that 71.3% of these fatalities were drivers, and 28.7% were passengers.

The study highlights a 9.4% increase in fatalities and an 11.9% year-on-year rise in accidents. Furthermore, the number of people injured in road accidents surged by 15.3% in 2022 compared to the previous year.

Two-wheelers remained the highest contributor to both accidents and fatalities for the second consecutive year. In contrast, light vehicles, including cars, jeeps, and taxis, came in a distant second place.

According to the report, the majority of these tragic incidents occurred in rural areas, accounting for 68% of road accident deaths, while urban areas contributed to 32% of total accident deaths.

President of the Two-Wheeler Helmets Manufacturers Association, Rajeev Kapur expressed deep concern over these alarming statistics. In a statement, he urged state governments to take immediate action by enforcing mandatory helmet-use laws, emphasizing that it is high time for stringent measures to be implemented to save lives.

“Despite the Government of India having established a law, there remains a severe lack of enforcement,” said Mr. Kapur “Mandating helmet use is within the purview of the states, and unfortunately, many have not taken this matter seriously, leading to countless preventable deaths.”

Mr. Kapur further pointed out that the issue extends beyond just government enforcement. “It is concerning that there are unscrupulous helmet sellers on almost every street corner, contributing to the problem. They manufacture and sell fake and spurious ISI helmets that not only fail to protect riders but also increase the chances of head injuries.”

He stressed the importance of raising awareness about the necessity of ISI parameter helmets and the dangers of substandard options. “Manufacturing a genuine ISI parameter helmet involves considerable costs, making it impossible for anyone to sell a helmet at the remarkably low prices, such as Rs 200, as seen even in the capital city of Delhi.”

The report also noted that Tamil Nadu recorded the highest number of road accidents on national highways in 2022, followed by Madhya Pradesh, while Uttar Pradesh reported the highest number of individuals killed in road accidents. These findings underscore the urgent need for immediate action to promote helmet safety and reduce road accident fatalities.

The President’s call for stricter enforcement of helmet laws and the crackdown on counterfeit helmets reflects the critical need to address this pressing issue and save countless lives on India’s roads.

Aparna Enterprises Eyes 25percent uPVC Doors and Windows Market Share in North India

New Delhi, 02 November 2023: Aparna Enterprises Limited, India’s fastest growing building materials manufacturer, announced further expansion into the North Indian market with its uPVC brand, Ökotech and the company is set to increase its domestic footprint to 200 markets. Ökotech seeks to capture 25% market share of the uPVC doors and windows segment in North India over the next two years.

The uPVC segment in India is observing a yearly growth rate of 7%-12%. In North India, there is a distinctive demand for customisable and environment-friendly uPVC products that can be attributed to a real estate market of largely stand-alone or independent homes. Additionally, there is a growing demand pipeline from high-rise apartments. Aparna Enterprises has effectively tapped into this market with Ökotech that produces uPVC doors and windows as well as profiles.

Speaking on the growth of the building materials segment, Ms. Aparna Reddy – Executive Director of Aparna Enterprises Ltd, said, “The Indian real estate market is expected to grow more than 12-fold in the next 25 years. This has created a spike in demand for quality building materials that can help develop strong, sustainable and environment-friendly buildings that stand the test of time. We are determined to support the country’s infrastructural and real estate needs.”

Addressing the way ahead for Ökotech in North India, Mr. Mahesh Choudhary – President and CEO, uPVC Division of Aparna Enterprises said, “To meet the increasing requirements of uPVC doors and windows, we are working towards improving our current production volumes by 70% by the beginning of next year. We are committed to deliver exceptional products and services and become a trusted choice in North India’s uPVC market. We see a high potential for our uPVC doors and windows solutions in the region, catering to the requirements of both large organisations and small homemakers.”

Orion Malls Showcases the rich Cultural Heritage of India this Festive Season

Bengaluru 2nd November 2023: This festive season, Orion Malls by Brigade Group is showcasing the rich cultural heritage of India through specially curated dance and musical performances. An elaborate shopping bonanza with special offers from various outlets

along with a festive-themed flea market has also been organised. To further the festive ambiance, all three Orion Malls will feature several eye-catching installations inspired by India’s rich culture and mythology.

“To make this festive season even more special, we are showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of our country through art forms including traditional dances and musical performances. Our aim is not only to entertain the public but also to make them aware of the rich culture that prevails in various parts of the country. One of the reasons that drove this thought is that Bengaluru is a truly metropolitan city with residents hailing from various parts of the country. Right through the festive season we are showcasing performances by artists from different states and cultures. In the coming days, we have performances that portray the cultural heritage of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal among others. To add to the festive atmosphere, we will be adorning our malls in uniquely themed Diwali decor. We have made all possible arrangements for our customers to have an immersive and memorable mall experience” said Sunil Munshi – VP – Retail, Brigade Group.

A special performance to honor Karnataka Rajyotsava was organised wherein over 50 classical dancers put up a scintillating show. In addition to this, there was a vibrant ‘dolu kunita’ performance, soulful folk songs, cymbals of kamsale, Veera Bhadra Kunita, Tamate, Gurudi Bombe, Yakshagana and other performances.

The theme of the Diwali decoration this year is ‘Heritage Deepavali’, serving as a reminder of timeless tales, architectural grandeur, artistic finesse, and spiritual wisdom. In addition to the festive décor, customers who shop for Rs. 4000 and above at particular retail stores in the mall will stand to win exciting prizes including the bumper prize of a Hyundai Verna car and the weekly prize of an iPhone 15 at Orion Mall at Brigade Gateway. At Orion Avenue Mall and Orion Uptown Mall, the weekly prize would be an iPhone 15 along with a grand prize of a Hyundai i10 Nios with a minimum purchase of Rs 2500. The Orion festive season décor and shopping festival will be live until 19th November 2023.

Honda Cars India registers 9,400 units of domestic sales in October 2023

Mumbai, November 2, 2023: Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL), a leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, registered monthly domestic sales of 9,400 units in Oct’23 backed by strong demand for its new SUV Honda Elevate. The export numbers for HCIL stood at 3,683 units in Oct’23.

Sharing thoughts on the monthly sales performance, Mr. Yuichi Murata, Director, of Marketing and Sales, Honda Cars India Ltd said, “There is a strong demand during the festival period with incredible response for our new model Honda Elevate from our customers. We are actively working to meet the strong demand for Elevate. The Honda City and Amaze models have also maintained their good performance. As we near the auspicious celebrations of Dhanteras and Diwali, our dealerships are focusing on maximising deliveries to our esteemed customers and making them a part of the Honda family.”

The company had registered 9,543 in domestic sales and exported 1,678 units in Oct’22.