ASUS ROG is all set to rule with the revolutionary ZEPHYRUS G14

Business World

ASUS ROG is all set to rule with the revolutionary ZEPHYRUS G14

Aug 8, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #‘state of the art’ creation, #AMD India., #Arnold Su, #Asus India, #ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG), #Business Head, #Consumer & Gaming PC, #Managing Director – Sales, #System Business Group, #Vinay Sinha, #Zephyrus G14

Taiwanese tech giant, ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) reinforces the vision to deliver an ultimate gaming experience by launching the ‘state of the art’ creation, Zephyrus G14 today.  Asus ROG’s flagship product is powered by the latest AMD Ryzen™ 9 4900HS processor with up to 8 cores and 16 threads offering power-packed performance. It comes with a customized intelligent cooling system, up to an RTX 2060 MaxQ GPU from NVIDIA and up to a UHD resolution, Pantone validated 100% sRGBcolor accurate display to captivate users. ASUS India also ramps up the AMD portfolio by adding ZenBook 14, VivoBook S S14, VivoBook Ultra K15, VivoBook Ultra14/15, VivoBook Flip14 and Zephyrus G15 to it.

Commenting on the launch of the novel product, Arnold Su, Business Head, Consumer & Gaming PC, System Business Group, Asus India, said, “Zephyrus G14 is truly a breathtaking technological and design marvel from ASUS. Emphasizing on thin & light as our prime focus for the first time for a gaming laptop in 14-inch form factor with such powerful AMD Ryzen 4000 series HS processors will provide unrivalled performance to gamers and content creators. The new AMD Ryzen 4000 series HS processors are a great example of the solid collaboration between ASUS and AMD to take performance a notch higher and boost our audience with exceptional capabilities. We are also building our AMD portfolio with thin & light consumer notebooks with the objective to deliver intelligent edge solutions that enhance work and life experiences. We are confident that Zephyrus G14 and the remaining AMD range will be a raging hit with the Indian populace.”

“AMD and ASUS are driven by the common passion for gaming and bringing high-performance computing to everyone. We are excited to strengthen our relationship to the next level with the launch of ROG Zephyrus G14, featuring our new Ryzen™ 9 4900HS mobile processor, and the expansion of the Vivobook portfolio powered by our latest processors”, says Vinay Sinha, Managing Director – Sales, AMD India. “Our 7 nm process technology and Zen 2 core architecture feature up to 8 cores and 16 threads, making the G14 an extremely powerful machine for uninterrupted gaming, content creation and other demanding workloads.”  

Zephyrus G14 Features:

Small in size, huge on impact:

The 17.9 mm thin and 1.6kg ultra-portableZephyrus G14 can be easily carried in laptop bags and backpacks. It’s highly finished Magnesium-Alloy keyboard frame with fingerprint-resistance in a distinctive dot matrix design is produced by a CNC milling process that puts 6,536 precise perforations in the exterior panel. 

The all-new AniMe Matrix™ Display

While the team at ROG always strives to furnish the best in technology and performance, this time they have outdone themselves with the cutting edge anime Matrix™ technology that is available on select models. The monochrome palette and pixelated pattern give ita retro feel with surprising flexibility. The patented design is indeed a testimony to ASUS’s spirit of innovation. 

Amazing graphics for hardcore gaming

The laptop series besides packing in on some astounding designs also feature realistic powerful graphics via the latest GeForce RTX 2060 Max-Q augmented by ROG’s boost up to 1298 MHz at 65W. The NVIDIA Turing architecture accounts for the vivid and enthralling gameplay and streaming ability. The Zephyrus G14 is the first ROG laptop to feature an Ergo-Lift hinge that lifts the keyboard at a more comfortable angle for better typing experience.

The IPS-type panels with wide viewing angles that cover 100% of the sRGB range are framed by exceptionally thin bezels, creating an 85% screen-to-body ratio that makes these screens feel larger and more engrossing no matter what the user is creating, watching, or playing.

Keeping creators in mind who require color accurate displays, the Zephyrus range of products features Pantone validated colour calibrated displays. All display options are colour calibrated right out of the factory.

Features Galore

The revolutionary laptop also comes equipped with a plethora of awesome features such as fingerprint sensor for one-touch log-in with Windows Hello, window 10 Home, fast reliable wireless networking with Intel Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, 14-inch thin-bezel display, dual display output, the Dolby Atmos™, an exceptional 4-cell 76WHr battery, Type-C charging by 65W adapter, and 180W AC adapter

Intelligent Cooling 

ROG’sintelligent cooling solution can manage thermal output efficiently while also achieving the highest possible performance levels. It also focuses on optimizing the daily use of their gaming notebooks for performing intensive tasks. By maintaining a fine balance between different aspects of the device, the new generation of ROG device offers a significantly better user experience. 

Specifications:ZenBook 14, VivoBook Ultra 14, VivoBook Ultra 15,VivoBook Flip 14 and VivoBook S14

ZenBook 14 is the world’s slimmest 14″ AMD laptop all-metal 14.3 mm-thin chassis that weighs as little as 1.13 kg. It will be available in piney grey colour powered by Ryzen 7 4700U CPU up to 16GB DDR4 RAMcoupled with512G PCIe x2 SSD. It also has FHD 1920*1080P screen and NanoEdge displays with a 90% screen-to-body ratio and supports up to 22 hr battery life.

Vivobook Ultra K15 (KM513), Vivobook Ultra 14 (M413), Vivobook Ultra 15 (M513) and the Vivobook Flip 14 (TM420) are powered with up to the latest AMD Ryzen 7 4700U processor and backed by 8GB of DDR4 RAM coupled with up to 512GB of PCIe Gen 3 x4 SSD. The Convertible 2 in 1 Vivobook Flip 14 comes in the Bespoke Black colour and the Vivobook Ultra 14 &Vivobook Ultra 15 come in the Cobalt Blue / Bespoke Black / Dreamy White colours. Lastly, the Vivobook Ultra K15 will come in the Hearty Gold / Indie Black / Transparent Silver colour variants. Also, The Vivobook Ultra 15 or the M513 comes with a Hybrid storage option of 1TB HDD + 256G PCIe Gen 3 x4 SSD. All variants come with the LED Backlit Full HD screen with a resolution of 1920*1080. The Vivobook Flip 14 being the Convertible 2-in-1 laptop and having the touchscreen display.

The VivoBook S S14 M433 breaks away from the tradition with unique designs. Measuring less than 16 mm and weighing merely 1.4 kg, the ultrathin and light laptop can slip into any messenger bag or backpack. The VivoBook S S14 comes with a three-sided Nano-Edge display: 5.7 mm bezel, 14″ LED-backlit FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel, 14-inch screen size, and 85% screen-to-body ratio. It is powered by up to AMD Ryzen7 4700U processor and comes with AMD Radeon graphics for efficient multitasking and gaming on the go. The laptop is also equipped with up to 8 GB DDR4 memory, storage option of 512 GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 X2 SSD (Upgradable up to 1 TB), long-lasting 50 Wh lithium-polymer battery, superfast Intel® WiFi 6 with Gig+ (802.11ax) and an integrated fingerprint sensor with touchpad Trusted Platform Module.

 Available in four distinctive colours; Gaia Green, Resolute Red, Dreamy White and Indie Black, the audio system on the new VivoBook S S14 has been carefully tuned by ASUS Golden Ear team experts and is certified by audio specialists Harman Kardon to ensure the very best sound for any kind of audio content.

Specifications: Zephyrus G15 

Available in two variants in the same Black colour; GTX1660Ti Max-Q&RTX2060 Max-Q, backed by up to 16 GB RAM and up to 1TB SSD along with 15.6 Full HD display with 240 Hz refresh rate and 3msresponse time, and 76Wh battery.

SeriesAvailable channel from 6th Aug Starting price (INR)
Zephyrus G14
with AniMe Matrix™ 		Amazon/Retail store/LFR98,990
Zephyrus G14
without AniMe Matrix™ 		Amazon/Retail store/LFR80,990
Zephyrus G15Flipkart/Retail store104,990
ZenBook 14Amazon/Flipkart/Retail store69,990
Vivobook S S14Amazon/Flipkart/Retail store59,990
Vivobook Ultra K15Retail stores54,990
Vivobook Ultra 14/15M413(Flipkart)/M513(Amazon)47,990
Vivobook Flip 14Retail Stores / Amazon / Flipkart49,990

SPECIFICATIONS – ZEPEHYRUS G14

ProcessorAMD Renoir R9-4900HS 
AMD Renoir R7-4800HS
AMD Renoir R5-4600HS
GPUGA401IV: NVIDIA RTX 2060 (Max-Q)
GA401IU: NVIDIA GTX 1660Ti (Max-Q)
GA401II: NVIDIAGTX 1650Ti
GA401IH: NVIDIA GTX 1650
Operating systemWindows 10 Home
Microsoft officeHome & Student 2019 (lifetime license)(Selected models)
Display14-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS-level panel, up to 120Hz, 100% sRGB, Pantone® Validated, AMD® FreeSync™ 
14-inch WQHD (2560×1440) IPS-level panel, 60Hz, 100% sRGB, Pantone® Validated, AMD® Free Sync™ 
Audio2x 2.5W speakers with Smart AMP technology
2x 0.7W tweeter, Array Microphone
With Dolby Atmos technology
KeyboardBacklit Chiclet Keyboard, N-key support, 1.7mm travel distance, 4 Hotkeys, Power key with Fingerprint
Memory & StorageDDR4 3200MHz SDRAM up to 32GB
M.2 NVMe PCIE 3.0 up to 1TB SSD
WirelessIntel® Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Bluetooth 5.0 *Bluetooth version may vary as the OS upgrades
Connectivity1 x USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C™ with DisplayPort™ 1.4 and Power Delivery
1 x USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C™
2x USB3.2 Gen1 Type-A
1x HDMI 2.0b
1x 3.5mm headphone and microphone combo jack
1x Kensington Lock
Battery76whr
180W Power Adaptor 
Plug Type: ø6.0 (mm)
Output: 20V DC, 9A, 180W
Input: 100~240V AC, 50/60Hz universal
ColoursMoonlight White / Eclipse Grey
Size32.4 (W) x 22.2 (D) x 1.79 (H) cm – Non-AniMe Matrix™  version32.4 (W) x 22.2 (D) x 1.99 (H) cm – AniMe Matrix™  version
Weight1.6 kg – Non-AniMe Matrix™  version
1.7kg – AniMe Matrix™  version
Business World

ELGi’s AB ‘Always Better’ Series powers the Indian pharmaceutical industry

Aug 8, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Africa and the Middle East), #Director, #Dr. Jairam Varadaraj, #ELGi ((BSE: 522074 NSE: ELGIEQUIP)) AB series range of oil-free screw compressors, #Elgi Equipments Ltd, #IS:10500:2012 certification for water quality, #ISAAME (India, #Managing Director, #Mr. Rajesh Premchandran, #South Asia

India’s leading pharmaceutical companies rely on the ELGi ((BSE: 522074 NSE: ELGIEQUIP)) AB series range of oil-free screw compressors, to deliver pure, clean, class “0” oil-free air. With high reliability, consistent air quality, better return on investment, lower cost of ownership, and fast, efficient service support for sensitive applications with moisture content between +3°C, to -20°C PDP; the AB series range of air compressors meets the ISO 8573–1 compliance requirements. In addition, the ELGi AB Series delivers unmatched air quality in line with the ISO8573-Class 7 compliance norms ensuring zero traces of microbial contaminants. With the IS:10500:2012 certification for water quality, the AB series also guarantees the safest pneumatic air for the pharmaceutical industry. The sheer performance of the ELGi AB Series, coupled with its compelling value proposition has resulted in India’s leading pharmaceutical companies replacing existing machines with the AB series, while successful installations have prompted pharmaceutical companies, across the country, to revisit their entire fleet of air compressors.

India’s pharmaceutical industry is forecasted to grow at 22.4% annually, to the US $100 billion by 2025; addressing over 50% of the global demand for vaccines, 40% of generic demand in the US and 25% of all medical requirements in the UK. Dr. Jairam Varadaraj, Managing Director, Elgi Equipments Ltd said “In light of the pandemic, India’s pharmaceutical industry has a tremendous opportunity to play a pivotal role in global healthcare. With growing FDA scrutiny, strict warnings over toxic impurities and delicate pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, the quality of compressed air meeting the highest standards, is of quintessential importance. On the other hand, continuous air supply must be guaranteed, since a disruption can lead to an immense loss of production. At ELGi, we endeavoured to address the needs of the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in a new way. The ELGi AB ‘Always Better’ series is a disruption in oil-free compressed air technology, and we’re delighted to witness its growing adoption as the customer’s choice for sensitive pharmaceutical applications.”

Pharmaceutical customers traditionally buy oil-lubricated compressors for requirements below 500cfm (90kW) owing to low capital investments, and conventional oil-free compressors, to meet stringent air quality requirements. The flip side of using lubricated screws is the multi-layer filtration systems which increase pressure drop and cause downtime due to the replacement of oil filters resulting in increased lifecycle costs. On the other hand, conventional oil-free compressors in this range, are normally air-cooled and also face reliability issues and temperature trips at high ambient temperature conditions (above 45°C), resulting in significant downtime and operational losses, in addition to excessive initial and running costs.

The ELGi AB Series is the #Always better choice; offering pharmaceutical manufacturing customers reliability and high performance at temperatures beyond 50°C due to the water injection inside the compression chamber. The AB Series delivers Class ‘0’ quality air, while the water in the closed circuit is insulated with a proprietary material to ensure zero contamination due to corrosion.

The ELGi AB Series has a unique air cooling system which ensures ample condensation of water from air particles, aiding the self-replenishment of water in the closed-loop. This eliminates the need for external water top-up and also reduces the load on the driers and the water management system. The in-built microbial inhibition system prevents microbial growth, across all scenarios of operation, thereby ensuring microbe-free air.

The ELGi AB Series operates with a single airend, as opposed to conventional oil-free machines that operate with dual airends. This results in lower footprint, fewer rotating components and lower maintenance costs. Fitted with stainless steel rotors for better performance, every ELGi AB series air compressor comes with standard bearings for ease of maintenance. Additionally, the AB series range operates at a lower RPM, resulting in less wear and tear of rotating parts, low noise levels and reduced power consumption. Additionally, the low noise levels ensure the AB series does not require a dedicated compressor room and can be placed right next to the application area, thereby reducing costs involved with the build-up of additional infrastructure and compressed air supply systems.

Mr. Rajesh Premchandran, Director, ISAAME (India, South Asia, Africa and the Middle East) said, “The AB Series is a disruption in oil-free compressed air technology, offering pharmaceutical customers a no-compromise, oil-free solution at reduced lifecycle costs when compared with prevailing oil-free technologies. With the AB Series compressors, pharmaceutical installations get the purest form of compressed air with higher efficiency, increased reliability and quicker return on investment.”

Business World

PHD Chamber lauds Hon’ble Prime Minister Modi Ji’s stronger National Education Policy 2020 to ensure a Better Education System & make Indian students Global Citizens

Aug 8, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Dr D K Aggarwal, #National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, #President

Dr D K Aggarwal, President, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has appreciated the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s initiative for launching the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 ensuring a strong education system for a better India.

The New Education Policy 2020 will promote creativity and curiosity among young minds and will go a long way in transforming our youth into global citizens and will make the curriculum of schools and colleges more skill-oriented, said Dr D K Aggarwal.

In an era where we have an ocean of information and knowledge available at a point of click, the NEP 2020 will help the youth gauge effective knowledge and understand how to think, instead of what to think, added Dr Aggarwal.

Going forward, the multiple entry and exit options available for the Under Graduate courses, enabling the young kids to choose or leave the subjects opted according to their professional career, will go a long way in upskilling India’s youth and promoting them to follow their passion, The would also enable youth to be ethical, rational, compassionate and caring, while at the same time prepare them for gainful, fulfilling employment, said Dr Aggarwal.

The inquiry, analytic and discussion-based learning introduced in NEP 2020 will bridge the gap between Research and Education in India and making innovation and adaption our strength, said Dr Aggarwal.

Furthermore, the emphasis on teacher training in NEP 2020 will enlighten our citizens, produce quality human beings with adequate education for a better India, said Dr Aggarwal.

Business World

‘BharatBenz Exchange’ Taps Used CV Market

Aug 8, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #‘BharatBenz Exchange, #Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), #Managing Director & CEO, #Mr. Rajaram Krishnamurthy, #Mr. Satyakam Arya, #Vice President Marketing & Sales and Customer Service.

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) today announced the launch of ‘BharatBenz Exchange’, its new offer to the used commercial vehicle segment. By leveraging its growing customer base and nation-wide dealer network, BharatBenz Exchange will supplement its existing new vehicle sales model by offering an exchange platform where customers can exchange their used vehicles of any brand for new or used BharatBenz vehicles.

Mr. Satyakam Arya, Managing Director & CEO, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles said, “As the number of BharatBenz owners rapidly increases, we feel it is the right time to tap the massive potential presented by the used commercial vehicle segment. We look forward to delivering BharatBenz’s superior quality, service and TCO to an even larger customer base.”

BharatBenz Exchange will provide buyers with a carefully-picked pool of used trucks that have undergone thorough quality checks, made available via its nationwide dealership network.

“With BharatBenz Exchange, used vehicle sellers and buyers no longer have to haggle over the right price or worry about incomplete paperwork. Our trained experts will ensure that both parties have the best customer experience. We see enormous potential here to show even more customers the quality of BharatBenz products and services. This also ensures the complete lifecycle of the vehicle is Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, Corporate Communications taken care of,” added Mr. Rajaram Krishnamurthy, Vice President Marketing & Sales and Customer Service.

BharatBenz Exchange aims to provide customers with the best resale value and smooth management of the end-to-end documentation process for optimum customer satisfaction. The experts at BharatBenz will also support used vehicle buyers (both individuals and companies) with a large portfolio of vehicles suitable to their application by providing the right AMC and Extended Warranty options for their range of refurbished trucks. The team will even assist in identifying the right financing partner.

DICV is in the process of digitalizing services to better promote the used vehicle business. Interested buyers and sellers can check the BharatBenz used vehicle sections on www.bharatbenz.com and browse the catalogue. DICV is also looking into tie-ups with leading online Used Vehicle platforms and auction houses in order to reach a larger customer base.

Business World

Export curbs due to Covid-19 outbreak taking a huge toll on Spunbond nonwoven industry: NWFI

Aug 8, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Non-Woven Federation of India (NWFI), #Suresh Patel – President of NWFI., #Textile Minister Smriti Irani and Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan

The multiple restrictions on exports of Spunbond nonwoven fabric and masks, and regulation of their prices in the wake of the outbreak of Covid-19 cases since March, has taken a huge toll on the Spunbond Nonwoven fabric industry, an industry association has said and demanded that the restrictions be lifted immediately.

In March, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued a notification stopping exports of Spunbond nonwoven fabric with immediate effect and even those holding orders were not allowed to export. In the same month, Meltblown nonwoven fabrics and masks were declared as essential commodities, and their prices and supplies were regulated.

In May, the government allowed exports of non-medical and non-surgical masks, which are made of cotton, silk, wool, and knitted fabric, but there was no relief for the Spunbond fabric industry.  

In June-end, 50 lakh coveralls were allowed to be exported, but the conditions were such that not a single exporter was found to be eligible to export the same in July.

The Non-Woven Federation of India (NWFI), which represents regional associations of Spunbond Nonwoven Fabric Manufacturers and its Convertors said that the continuing restrictions on exports of Spunbond nonwoven fabrics and various types of masks are hurting the local industry. It also demanded that restrictions on exports of 3 Ply surgical masks and N95 masks be scrapped.

The Federation said that in case of concerns about the availability of fabric for PPE kits and masks, the government can reserve 50% of the nonwoven fabric production for domestic consumption, and allow exports of the remaining 50%.

“The DGFT on July 13 allowed exports of nonwoven fabric other than 25-70 GSM (gram per square metre) while continuing to prohibit exports of the fabric of 25-70 GSM. However, the majority of the demand is for the fabric of 25-70 GSM. This policy of partially lifting of a partial ban on nonwoven fabric exports does not make sense as there is no differentiation in manufacturing facilities on the basis of GSM. Manufacturers can make the fabric of GSM ranging from 10 to 200 in the same plant,” said Suresh Patel – President of NWFI.

The production of Spunbond nonwoven fabric is 5,200 metric tonnes per month, which is 12.6% of the total capacity of 41,350 metric tonnes. Similarly, capacity utilization of 3 ply surgical masks and N95 masks is just 18% of the total monthly installed capacity of 7,698 lakh pieces.

“These figures show that the country is self-sufficient in Spunbond nonwoven fabric and surgical mask requirements. Hence, the restrictions on their exports do not make practical sense,” said Suresh Patel – President of NWFI, adding that before the ban was imposed in March, the capacity utilization was 90%, and the products were being exported across the world.

“We are losing market share in the international market because of the curbs,” said Suresh Patel – President of NWFI.

The Spunbond Nonwoven industry directly employs approximately 6.5-7 lakh people, while the indirect employment is estimated at more than 20 lakh.

The Federation noted that installed capacity is continuously rising due to new facilities, even as fabrics like cotton, polyester, nylon, SMS, SSMMS, Meltblown, and Spunlace fabrics are also now being used as raw material for making PPE overalls and masks.

In separate letters to Textile Minister Smriti Irani and Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan, the Federation demanded that the export restrictions be lifted.

“The government should allow exports of 3 ply surgical masks without any restrictions, while certified manufacturers should be allowed to freely export N95 masks,” the Federation said. 

It demanded an increase of quota and relaxation of the criterion of selection based on various quality certifications and also demanded that import duty of all types of masks and PPE overalls be reinstated.

“Weak domestic demand and ban on exports of the non-woven fabric have put the survival of the whole industry at stake. These measures will go a long way in supporting the industry, and safeguarding the lakhs of jobs across the country that are at stake now,” added Suresh Patel – President of NWFI.

News

Indian experts oppose the proposal to ban safer tobacco alternatives in developing nations

Aug 7, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #“LMICs, #ban safer tobacco alternatives, #Director of Council for Harm Reduced Alternatives, #Dr. Sree T. Sucharitha, #Legal counsel Pingal Khan, #Samrat Chowdhery

The recently released position paper by a Paris-based non-profit, The Union, which proposes a ban on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products in developing nations have met with strong resistance from healthcare advocates and harm reduction activists in these countries.

The Union made its recommendation on grounds that lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have weak regulations and hence it is better to ban smoking alternatives which can lead to uptake among youth. Activists have opposed this view stating it will increase health inequalities between western and developing nations and it encroaches people’s right of liberty to choose safer alternatives to combustible cigarettes.

Samrat Chowdhery, Director of Council for Harm Reduced Alternatives, said, “There is now little doubt in the scientific community that smoking alternatives such as e-cigarettes are significantly less harmful. It is highly discriminatory to propose that while smokers in the west can have access to risk reduction, those in developing countries cannot. This appears to be a colonial, patronizing mindset veiled as philanthropy.”

He added, “LMICs are sitting on a tobacco epidemic timebomb, where 80% of the world’s tobacco users live. What we need are humane, pragmatic solutions that can reduce tobacco-related deaths and disease. Western nations that have embraced lower-risk alternatives are witnessing sharp declines in smoking rates, so their efficacy in combating the epidemic is established. And yet, organizations like the Union want to deny access to harm prevention to people who can least afford to deal with the consequences of tobacco use.”

Public health researcher Dr. Sree T. Sucharitha said the Union position is a case of intellectual bankruptcy. Referring to a de facto ban on e-cigarette research in India, she said, “Such bans affect the advancement of science and research into tobacco harm reduction (THR) and perpetuate unilateral, top-down, unscientific policies which adversely impact not only tobacco users and their families but also the communities intricately linked to the ecosystem.

“THR has a lot more relevance and applicability in LMICs and ideally its focus should be on gendered, mental health affected, disadvantaged groups including migrant populations and others who don’t find a mention in the Union’s vision for LMICs. Developing nations have an equal right to THR and should be at the heart of the global agenda”, she added.

Legal counsel Pingal Khan said, “Discrimination based on economic prowess if a country is against any modern legal framework. Most multilateral arrangements provide more flexibility to the lesser developed countries and not the other way around. If we are to accept this rationalization by the Union, we are effectively implying that citizens of economically weaker nations should have lesser freedom of choice (of safer options in this case) and consequently lesser dignity of life. Therefore, the recommendations of the Union are not only misplaced but are also regressive and appear to have been made with a questionable intent.”

Business World

TradeIndia’s first COVID-19Essential Expo 2020 witness 18000 attendees on Day 1

Aug 7, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #18000 attendees on Day 1, #COO, #Sandip Chhettri, #TradeIndia

New Delhi, 7th August: In an attempt to resuscitate the ailing small and medium industries of the country that have suffered from the business-numbing impact of the pandemic, TradeIndia, India’s largest B2B marketplace offering global buyers and sellers a reliable platform to identify trustworthy business partners have initiated a first-of-its-kind virtual trade the exposition that aims to usher new business opportunities and collaborations between the various brands and entities of the country.

India’s leading online trade platform is leaving no stones unturned in helping the severely affected MSME sector reclaim lost footing and the state of the art virtual trade expo is verily a manifestation of this endearing endeavour. The exhibition will guide the industry towards transforming the unprecedented losses and chaos ensued by the pandemic into a favourable opportunity. By showcasing via the virtual medium, the various hidden growth prospects and lucrative openings that can be leveraged amidst the pandemic, TradeIndia is remarkably enough, covering the distance where none has ventured before.

The first day of the event itself proved instrumental in heralding a new ray of hope for the sector comprising of the various pandemic-affected SMEs and MSMEs. By extending unique solutions through combining technological promise and innovative brilliance, TradeIndia is seemingly aiding these small-ticket enterprises in maintaining business continuity in such chaotic times. The jubilant event witnessed a great number of business participants as it displayed the various essential products and the companies that manufacture them. By coupling the existing know-how with the progressive tech-advancement and digitization, the event underlined the need for companies to constantly renovate and upgrade their current offerings. Besides focusing and brainstorming on the various innovative guidelines that companies can instil in their product development, the expo also revealed the various alternate channels of revenue for companies that are suitable for tapping into the current market dynamics.

Sandip Chhettri, COO, TradeIndia said, “The trade expo hosted an expansive multitude of brands, their products through a virtual exhibition solution that allowed the exhibitors to demonstrate their products at a very low cost but with high scalability. The pioneering tradeshow also featured never-before-seen 3D stalls or immersive virtual spaces that enabled attendees to sift through the various product lineups, access business catalogues while interacting with exhibitors through chat or video conference”

The event organized by TradeIndia featured were surgical dressing and disposable, personal safety equipment, personal care products, common medicines and drugs, temperature instruments, medical, diagnostic & hospital supplies, home cleaning appliances, etc.

Business World

iFFALCON’s QLED and UHD Models Sold Out within Less than Half a Day of Launch

Aug 7, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #iFFALCON’s, #QLED and UHD Models, #TCL’s sub-brand

New Delhi, August 07, 2020: In another major development, TCL’s sub-brand iFFALCON reported that its latest QLED and UHD H71 and K71 models were sold out within less than half a day of their launch. The brand recorded maximum demand from South and East India. They have already prepared with fresh stock and embracing the demand of the market.

The high market demand and consumer traction reflect iFFALCON’s growing popularity and success among Indian consumers. This positive growth trajectory shows that the brand has seamlessly met consumer expectations by offering them best-in-class Smart TVs at affordable prices.

The models offer cutting-edge features such as hands-free voice control for seamless remote-less control, smart inter-connectivity to connect and operate other smart home devices with the TV itself, and Quantum Dot and 4K HDR for the optimized TV viewing experience, among others.

H71

Available in two variants, 55-inch and 66-inch at INR 49,999 and INR 69,999, respectively, the H71 sports a metallic body, bezel-less design, and comes packed with a Quantum Dot and Dolby Vision for unmatched picture quality.

K71

The K71, on the other hand, comes in 43-inch, 55-inch, and 65-inch at INR 25,499, INR 35,999, and INR 53,499, respectively. It has 4K upscaling that enhances low-quality video in terms of details, clarity, quality, and frequency, no matter what the source is. It also offers dynamic colour enhancement that ensures the display effect close to a high gamut screen. Additionally, K71 comes with hands-free voice control.

News

News_StepOne launches National COVID Telemed Helpline

Aug 7, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #+91-9745697456, #24x7 access to Healthcare experts to citizens of India, #Dr. Shuchin Bajaj, #Founder, #helpline, #National COVID Telemed Helpline, #Raghavendra Prasad T S, #StepOne

New Delhi, August 7, 2020: StepOne, a non-profit volunteer-driven collective of 7000 doctors, has announced a National COVID Telemed Helpline, offering inclusive and 24×7 access to Healthcare experts to citizens of India, free of cost.  The helpline, +91-9745697456, is now live for citizens across the country living in the shadow of the rising pandemic. The helpline will provide TeleMed services under COVID related, mental help and video consultation for non-COVID related cases.

Citizens can call the helpline number anytime from anywhere without any charge and will get a call back from a healthcare expert within minutes to understand the needs of the caller. Callers can share the basis of their symptoms which, if required, a doctor would call back and guide them on the next steps. StepOne has also come up with a web-based tele-screening bot that interacts with citizens who wish to share their symptoms and passes the information to a doctor based on the symptoms. It has also come up with a mental health helpline providing counselling to citizens for expressing their issues for appropriate resolutions.

Announcing the National COVID Telemed Helpline, Raghavendra Prasad T S, Founder, StepOne, said, “As India battles the spread of COVID-19, there are many questions and fears people across the country have. With a mission to help state governments identify, locate and treat COVID-19 suspects, StepOne aims at serving people with their COVID, non-COVID and Mental Health queries. Through a collective effort of 4000+ verified doctors, technologists, entrepreneurs & operators, we aspire to reach every nook and corner of the country and extend our support to the ones in need. Our volunteer doctors are working round the clock and have been able to identify over 40,000 high-risk COVID-19 suspects and also managed to prevent about 3.2 lakh people from getting infected and we wish to continue our efforts in this direction.”

Working very closely with StepOne, Dr. Shuchin Bajaj, said, “COVID-19 has been one of the biggest challenges humanity has faced in the recent times and it is heartening to see that volunteers have risen from the ranks of all industries including doctors and techies to help reach out to patients and provide them succour. The fact that 7000 plus doctor volunteers are working day and night without any money or recognition, just to provide help to patients, rekindles our faith in humanity. StepOne is committed to providing high-quality healthcare to all communities in the long run and we see ourselves as a charitable online hospital which will ensure healthcare access to all regardless of their financial or social status.”

For the next phase of expanding its services, StepOne plans to launch a mobile app for citizens of the country to share their symptoms with a doctor remotely for e-consultation and free of charge. It has introduced and launched “Isolation Monitoring” services across 4 states to monitor citizens who have been recommended quarantine and if they are following the given protocols.

Business World

Franklin Templeton: Letter to investors by Sanjay Sapre

Aug 7, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Franklin Templeton, #Letter to investors by Sanjay Sapre

Dear Investor,
I hope you continue to stay safe and healthy. I am writing to update you on the latest developments on the six fixed income schemes under winding-up.

Schemes continue to receive cash flows:

• From April 24 till July 31, 2020, the schemes have received INR 4,280 crore from maturities, pre-payments, and coupons.
• From July 1 till July 31, 2020, the schemes have received cash flows of Rs 1,005 crore from various issuers.
• As on July 31, 2020, while two schemes were already cash positive, the borrowing levels in the other schemes continue to come down steadily. Franklin India Low Duration Fund (FILDF) and Franklin India Credit Risk Fund (FICRF) now have an outstanding borrowing of only 1% and 4% of their AUM respectively.
• These cash flows have been received without the ability to efficiently monetize assets. The schemes will endeavour to accelerate monetization post the successful completion of the e-voting exercise and the Unitholder meet, which can only take place after the completion of the legal process.

As you can see from the above, we continue to make good progress in terms of receiving cash flows and bringing borrowing levels down in these schemes.

Many of you have asked why borrowings should be paid before paying investors. Regulation 41 of SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations, 1996 lays out the procedure and manner of winding up of a mutual fund scheme. The regulations require that the proceeds realized, shall be first utilized towards discharge of due liabilities (including borrowings) of the scheme. I would also like to clarify, that AUM of the scheme is shown net of borrowings by the scheme. Repaying the borrowings neither impacts the AUM nor the NAV of the schemes. NAV or AUM represents the net assets of the scheme after reducing liabilities and expenses. Therefore, repayment of borrowings does not impact AUM or the NAV.

Update on the Future Group:

On July 31, 2020 coupon/part maturity payments were due to be paid by 3 issuers belonging to the Future group, viz., Rivaaz Trade Ventures Pvt Ltd (RTVPL), Nufuture Digital (India) Ltd (NDIL), and Future Ideas Co Ltd (FICL) on various Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs) issued by them. RTVPL met its payment obligations but FICL and NDIL were unable to meet their payment obligations. Due to default in payment, the securities of FICL and NDIL have been valued at zero, basis AMFI prescribed standard hair cut matrix and interest accrued and due has been fully provided. Securities of RTVPL will continue to be valued at 75%, basis recommended valuation. We wish to reiterate that these valuations only reflect the realizable value and do not indicate any reduction or write-off of the amount repayable by these companies. The impacted schemes include Franklin India Short Term Income Plan, Franklin India Dynamic Accrual Fund, Franklin India Income Opportunities Fund and Franklin India Credit Risk Fund.

It has been reported in certain sections of media that Reliance Industries Ltd. is in the final stages of negotiations to buy a controlling stake in Future Group’s retail business. It was also mentioned that both companies have supposedly agreed on certain terms and conditions and a deal could be announced shortly. Such a deal could potentially benefit all the above issuers held in the scheme portfolios.

Update on Reliance Broadcast:

Franklin India Short Term Income Plan and Franklin India Corporate Debt Fund are invested in ‘Reliance Broadcast 9.50% (Series C) 20-Jul-2020’ secured NCDs issued by Reliance Broadcast Network Limited (RBNL) having a put option on Reliance Capital. On maturity, the issuer was unable to meet the maturity obligations (including interest). We are in the process of initiating appropriate enforcement action to recover dues from the issuer and other connected parties. The schemes will continuously monitor the developments in RBNL.

Update on cases filed against Franklin Templeton:

I understand that the delay due to various legal cases continues to add to your disappointment and inconvenience and I am truly sorry about this delay. The Hon’ble Karnataka High Court has scheduled the next hearing of cases on the winding up of debt schemes of Franklin Templeton on August 7, 2020.
The e-voting and the unitholders meet to continue to remain suspended till we get further directions from the Hon’ble Karnataka High Court and efficient monetization of assets of the schemes and distribution of investment proceeds to the unitholders will be possible only after successful e-voting.

Update on SEBI’s audit:

We continue to fully cooperate with and provide all assistance to the auditors. Some of you may have seen certain unsubstantiated rumours and insinuations around the audit completion and findings in the media. I would urge you not to be swayed by such reports which often lack a basis in fact.

As I end this message, I want to re-affirm our commitment to India and our investors. The decision on winding up of the six schemes was taken with the sole objective of safeguarding the interest of our investors. Our focus is to return the maximum possible value to all investors in the shortest possible time in these unprecedented times, and we continue to make progress in this regard.

We will continue to share progress and updates on matters that are important to you. Thank you once again for your continued patience and co-operation.

In case of any further queries, please feel free to call our dedicated helpline at 1-800-258-4255 or 1-800-425-4255 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Alternatively, you can also e-mail us at service@franklintempleton.com.

Yours sincerely,
Sanjay Sapre
President, Franklin Templeton Asset Management (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.