Category Archives: Awards & Recognition

Awards & Recognition

Why Blockchain is the Game Changer We Need

By J A Sheikh

The world of Information Technology (IT) security has been under constant evolution, facing growing threats as cyberattacks become increasingly sophisticated. From ransomware to data breaches, the need for more robust security solutions has never been greater. Amid this rising demand, Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative force, offering innovative solutions to safeguard digital assets, transactions, and data. But how exactly is blockchain shaping the future of IT security?

Understanding Blockchain in the Context of IT Security

Blockchain, often associated with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, is a decentralized and distributed ledger technology. At its core, it’s a system for securely recording transactions across a network of computers (or nodes) in such a way that it is virtually impossible to alter or tamper with the recorded data. Each “block” in the chain contains a list of transactions, and every block is linked to the previous one, forming an immutable chain.

This feature of immutability, combined with decentralized consensus mechanisms, makes blockchain a powerful tool for enhancing IT security. Let’s dive deeper into how blockchain is making waves in the IT security landscape.

1. Enhancing Data Integrity and Transparency

One of the primary benefits of blockchain technology is its ability to provide data integrity. Once information is recorded in a blockchain, it becomes incredibly difficult to change or erase, due to its cryptographic and consensus-based mechanisms.

In the context of IT security, this ensures that data cannot be tampered with or falsified. Whether it’s personal data, financial records, or critical system logs, blockchain provides an immutable trail that can be audited and verified. For enterprises, this reduces the risk of data manipulation and provides transparency in the handling of sensitive information.

Use Case: Secure Document Storage and Verification

Blockchain can be used for storing sensitive documents, such as contracts, intellectual property, or regulatory compliance records. When a document is uploaded onto a blockchain, it is hashed (a form of encryption), and the hash is stored on the blockchain. This ensures that any future attempts to alter the document will be immediately apparent, as the hash will no longer match the original.

2. Decentralized Identity Management

Identity theft and unauthorized access to systems are among the most common forms of cyberattacks today. Traditional identity management systems rely on centralized authorities, such as government agencies or corporations, to verify and authenticate users. However, these centralized systems present a single point of failure, making them vulnerable to hacking or insider threats.

Blockchain offers a decentralized alternative for identity management, where individuals have control over their own identity data, stored securely on the blockchain. This decentralized approach eliminates the need for intermediaries and provides users with self-sovereign identity (SSI), ensuring greater privacy and security.

Use Case: Blockchain-based Authentication

Blockchain can provide a secure, cryptographic-based method for verifying user identities. Instead of relying on passwords or centralized databases, a user could authenticate themselves with a cryptographic key stored on the blockchain. This method, often known as “public key infrastructure” (PKI), is much more secure because the private key never leaves the user’s device, and the blockchain’s decentralized nature ensures no central authority is responsible for managing the identity.

3. Secure Transactions and Smart Contracts

Blockchain is widely known for its role in cryptocurrency transactions, where it ensures the authenticity and integrity of financial transfers. However, beyond simple peer-to-peer transactions, blockchain also supports more advanced features like smart contracts—self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement written directly into code.

Smart contracts operate autonomously and ensure that the terms of a contract are met before any action occurs. In terms of IT security, this means that processes and transactions can be automated in a way that reduces human intervention, limits errors, and ensures that all actions are traceable and secure.

Use Case: Supply Chain Security

Blockchain-based smart contracts can play a pivotal role in securing supply chains. Each step in the supply chain can be recorded on the blockchain, from manufacturing to delivery. A smart contract can automatically trigger a payment once a certain condition is met, such as delivery confirmation, eliminating the possibility of fraud or disputes.

4. Protection Against Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attacks

Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks are one of the most common types of cyberattacks, wherein an attacker overloads a target system or network with a flood of traffic to make it unavailable to legitimate users. Blockchain can help mitigate these attacks by distributing the network load across a decentralized structure, making it harder for malicious actors to overwhelm a single point of failure.

Use Case: Blockchain-based Web Hosting

Decentralized cloud computing platforms, powered by blockchain, can help mitigate DDoS attacks by using a distributed network of nodes to host web applications and services. The redundancy provided by blockchain’s decentralized architecture ensures that if one node is attacked or compromised, others can continue to function, thereby minimizing downtime and service disruption.

5. Enhancing Security in Internet of Things (IoT) Networks

The rapid growth of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has introduced a host of new vulnerabilities into IT environments. Each IoT device is a potential entry point for cybercriminals, and ensuring the security of these devices is a major challenge.

Blockchain can play a significant role in securing IoT networks by providing a decentralized and tamper-proof method of device authentication, data exchange, and access control. By recording device interactions and transactions on a blockchain, the network becomes more resilient to unauthorized access and cyberattacks.

Use Case: Blockchain for IoT Device Authentication

In IoT environments, blockchain can be used to store and authenticate the credentials of devices. A blockchain-based authentication system ensures that only verified devices can connect to the network, and each transaction or data exchange between devices is logged securely on the blockchain, making it more difficult for hackers to manipulate or intercept communication.

6. Blockchain for Secure Voting Systems

Traditional electronic voting systems have been subject to security concerns, such as voter fraud, tampering with results, or hacking. Blockchain technology offers a solution by providing a secure, transparent, and verifiable voting process.

Each vote can be recorded as a transaction on the blockchain, creating an immutable record that is visible to all stakeholders, ensuring transparency. Blockchain’s inherent security features make it nearly impossible to alter voting results once they are recorded, improving the overall trustworthiness of the electoral process.

Use Case: Blockchain-based Voting in Elections

In blockchain-based voting systems, each voter’s identity is verified using blockchain-based digital credentials, and their vote is recorded as a transaction on the blockchain. Once the vote is cast, it cannot be altered or deleted, and the final tally can be publicly audited in real-time, offering an unprecedented level of security and transparency.

Conclusion: Blockchain’s Future in IT Security

As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, traditional security measures alone may no longer be sufficient. Blockchain is offering a new paradigm for IT security, characterized by decentralization, immutability, and transparency. From data integrity and identity management to secure transactions and DDoS protection, blockchain has the potential to significantly transform how organizations approach cybersecurity.

While blockchain is still an emerging technology, its application in IT security is poised to grow in the coming years. As more industries adopt blockchain-based solutions, we can expect a future where IT security is not only more robust but also more transparent and user-centric. The decentralized nature of blockchain is already making it a cornerstone of next-generation security frameworks, and its influence is only set to expand.

Awards & Recognition

Indian American venture capitalist sues PayPal for racial discrimination

BY VEENA RAO

New York, NY, January 14, 2025 — Nisha Desai, an Indian American entrepreneur and the founder of Andav Capital, has filed a lawsuit against PayPal, alleging racial discrimination in its minority investment program. The case, brought before the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, challenges the criteria of PayPal’s $530 million initiative launched in 2020 to support minority-owned businesses.

Desai contends that the program unfairly excluded her firm by prioritizing Black and Latino-owned investment funds. She alleges that this exclusion has caused her venture capital firm, which focuses on early-stage tech-enabled companies, to lose millions in potential investments. The lawsuit claims that PayPal’s actions violate anti-discrimination laws, including the Civil Rights Acts of 1866 and 1964, as well as New York State and city human rights statutes.

“This case is about fairness and equality,” said Desai’s legal representatives at Consovoy McCarthy, a firm known for challenging diversity initiatives. Desai argues that the program’s focus on certain minority groups, to the exclusion of Asian Americans, represents unlawful racial bias.

Nisha Desai is a seasoned venture capitalist with a career spanning multiple industries. As the founder and General Partner of Andav Capital, her firm has invested in areas such as frictionless commerce, marketplaces, and enterprise software. Before establishing her firm, Desai held leadership roles at Deutsche Bank and J.P. Morgan, where she managed high-profile projects, including global restructuring programs and crisis management efforts.

Desai’s journey began as the daughter of Indian immigrants expelled from Uganda during Idi Amin’s regime. She pursued higher education, earning an MBA from The Wharton School and a B.S. with Honors in International Politics from Georgetown University. Desai is also a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder and has been recognized as one of the “2021 FinTech Women Money Movers.”

In addition to her work in venture capital, Desai has contributed to the startup ecosystem as an advisor and mentor with organizations such as Techstars and Google for Startups. Her professional experience includes roles at Google, Sweetgreen, and as staff for civil rights leader Congressman John Lewis.

PayPal’s initiative was introduced in the wake of widespread calls for social justice following the death of George Floyd. The program aims to provide funding to minority-owned businesses. While the company has not commented on the pending litigation, the lawsuit has sparked broader discussions about the criteria and execution of corporate diversity programs.

Desai’s lawsuit seeks damages and injunctive relief, aiming to challenge what she views as a flawed and discriminatory approach to supporting minority businesses.

The case, which was widely reported by mainstream American media, has drawn attention to the debate on inequities in implementing diversity initiatives.

Cover photo: Nisha Desai, LinkedIn

Awards & Recognition

MediBuddy’s 2024 Report: 40% of Doctor Appointments Dedicated to Family and Friends

INDIA: MediBuddy, India’s largest digital healthcare platform, marked a transformative year in 2024 by touching the lives of over 1.27 crore Indians, demonstrating the country’s rapid shift towards digital healthcare solutions. MediBuddy’s compelling insights uncover fascinating patterns of how Indians approach healthcare and paint a powerful picture of how healthcare evolves in India.

The data reveals a striking portrait of family health dynamics in Indian households. Of all healthcare bookings, 40% were made for family and friends, showcasing how digital platforms empower users to prioritize the well-being of their loved ones. Within this segment, 44% of bookings were for parents, reflecting the younger generation’s active role in their care. Spousal health accounted for 33%, highlighting strong partner support, while children’s health services comprised 11% of these bookings.

One of the most prominent insights from 2024 is the significant shift in when people seek healthcare. 37% of online consultations in 2024 occurred after 6 PM, highlighting a growing demand for high-quality healthcare 24×7. This shift highlights the need for flexible, accessible care that aligns with modern, busy lifestyles, moving beyond traditional office hours.

Gastroenterology, pediatrics, and dermatology were the most frequently accessed specialties on the platform. With digestive health also a growing concern, many turned to gastroenterologists for support, highlighting the rising awareness of gut health’s importance. Paediatrics was a focal point for many families, with parents increasingly relying on pediatricians to help them navigate their children’s growth and health. Meanwhile, dermatology emerged as a top specialty, with a significant increase in consultations for skin-related issues such as acne and overall skin care.

MediBuddy also looked at how its users contribute to a more sustainable future. By switching to digital reports, we were able to save enough paper to preserve the equivalent of 1,195 trees, which can absorb approximately 30,000 kg of CO2 annually. The choice to move consultations online had an even greater environmental impact, preventing 2.75 million kg of CO2 emissions released into the atmosphere from fuel burning. This shift not only highlights how digital healthcare is reshaping the patient experience but also how collective action can contribute to a healthier planet.

In 2024, MediBuddy’s phlebotomists traveled a staggering 80 lakh kilometers to deliver sample collection services at home. To put this in perspective, that’s the distance it would take to travel from Kashmir to Kanyakumari 2,192 times. Of particular note is that 25% of the phlebotomists making these tireless journeys were women, exemplifying the empowerment of women and the dedication with expertise that drives MediBuddy’s commitment to accessible care.

The insights gathered show that healthcare is becoming increasingly personal, accessible, and environmentally conscious. As people seek care that fits into their lives, whether through after-hours consultations or digital solutions, MediBuddy continues to adapt, ensuring that high-quality healthcare is always within reach. The year’s data also highlights how individual choices can have a collective, positive impact—on both personal health and the planet.

Awards & Recognition

NMDC is Pioneering Change in Karnataka with Medical Vans and Sports Complexes

NMDC Invests ₹9 crore to improve healthcare access and promote sports culture in Sandur Taluk

BELLARY: In a transformative step towards rural empowerment, NMDC Ltd, India’s largest iron ore producer, has provided ten fully equipped Medical Mobile Vans and laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Sports Complex in Sandur Taluk, Karnataka. Ms. Annapurna, MLA, Sandur Taluk, and Shri S. B. Singh, Head of Project, NMDC, flagged off the Medical Mobile Vans and jointly laid the foundation stone for the Sports Complex alongside the District Forest Officer of Bellary District.

NMDC has invested ₹7 crores to provide ten mobile medical vans for 2 years period in partnership with District Authorities, ensuring seamless healthcare access to the rural population across 97 villages in Sandur Taluka. Each mobile medical van, equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and staffed by a team of trained professionals, including a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, and lab technician, will bring critical healthcare services directly to residents’ doorstep, eliminating the need for arduous travel to the district headquarters hospital in Bellary.

The vans are equipped to conduct vital diagnostic tests such as those for pregnancy, typhoid, diabetes, hemoglobin levels, and more. Emergency provisions like oxygen cylinders further enhance their utility. These medical vans will visit all 97 villages in the region on a weekly rotation, ensuring timely medical attention at the doorstep of the residents. This initiative is set to significantly reduce the burden of healthcare access in the region, meeting immediate medical needs efficiently and fostering a healthier, more resilient community.

In addition to healthcare, to nurture young talents and promote fitness in the region, NMDC is investing ₹2 crores in building a modern Sports Complex in Sandur town. This facility will feature amenities like a badminton court, table tennis area, gym, and other professional-grade infrastructure to cater to local youth and sports enthusiasts. This initiative not only promises to ignite aspirations for professional sports careers but also aims to cultivate a culture of health and physical activity in the region. This cutting-edge sports complex will be open to access by the local population.

These initiatives, funded under NMDC’s CSR Fund underscore the organization’s holistic approach to community upliftment in the areas it operates. By bridging gaps in essential healthcare services and fostering avenues for sports excellence, NMDC is shaping a future where the people of Sandur Taluk can thrive with improved well-being and greater opportunities.

Speaking on the initiative, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD (Addl. Charge), NMDC said, “Our mission at NMDC extends beyond mining; it is about enriching lives. The launch of these Medical Mobile Vans and the laying off foundation of the Sports Complex reaffirm our commitment to the people of the Donimalai region. We at NMDC believe that healthcare and sports are fundamental to the development of a vibrant and resilient community and we are proud to play a role in building a healthier, stronger, and more aspirational future for the people in Bellary-Hospet region.”

Through these landmark initiatives, NMDC is not just addressing immediate community needs but is also investing in the long-term development of the Donimalai region, empowering its people and nurturing aspirations for a brighter tomorrow.

Awards & Recognition

Manipal Hospitals, Broadway Successfully Treated an Elderly Patient with Bilateral Herpes Zoster

KOLKATA: Manipal Hospitals, Broadway successfully handled a rare instance of bilateral Herpes Zoster in Nanda Ghosh, a 74-year-old woman. This is only the fourth documented case of bilateral Herpes Zoster in the country involving a patient who is not immunocompromised. She was brought to the hospital with complaints like fever, high-grade headache, nasal discharge, congestion, and coughing, Upon examination, vesiculopapular rashes (small bumps or fluid-filled blisters) among other symptoms suggested a severe and rare presentation of the Herpes virus.

Imagine suffering from days of fever, unceasing headache, and pain so inexplicable it just won’t subside. Despite a growing sense that something is seriously wrong, the underlying cause remains unknown. Such was the condition of this elderly patient till her son brought her to Manipal Hospital, Broadway where finally her condition found a diagnosis and treatment.

Herpes Zoster, commonly known as shingles can cause painful rashes and typically forms along a single nerve root (dermatome) on one side of the body, often affecting areas like the chest, abdomen, or face. However, in this case, it manifested bilaterally, which is extremely rare. The lesions formed on both sides of the face, including around the forehead, cheeks, and eyes, which is highly unusual in someone in relatively healthy condition.

A multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Partha Sarathi Bhattacharjee, Consultant – Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, confirmed the diagnosis through an extensive investigation. The patient was treated with antiviral medication (Zovirax) to target the Herpes virus and antibiotics (Meropenem) to manage secondary bacterial infections. Dermatologists and ophthalmologists were consulted to ensure comprehensive care.

Dr. Partha Sarathi Bhattacharjee, Consultant – Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, explained, “This case was a medical rarity, especially in a healthy elderly individual without immunosuppression. Such cases challenge conventional medical understanding and require advanced diagnostic expertise. If left untreated, Herpes Zoster can lead to severe complications such as blindness, hearing loss, and nerve damage. Getting the shingles vaccine can prevent herpes outbreaks. The shingles vaccine is administered in a 2-dose series, with the second dose given 2 to 6 months after the first for optimal effectiveness. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing the condition and preventing complications. While this vaccine is recommended for all ages, this is particularly beneficial for the elderly or those at higher risk.”

Nanda Devi’s son shared his emotional journey, stating, “Watching my mother suffer without knowing what was wrong was heart-wrenching. This is the fourth time we have relied on Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, and every time, they have exceeded our expectations. My mother’s condition was critical and very unusual, but the doctors here handled it with extraordinary care and expertise. Thanks to their efforts, my mother is now back home with her family. We are deeply thankful.”

In a week, the patient showed great improvement under the devoted care of the specialists at Manipal Hospital, Broadway. Her fever abated, and rashes resolved without secondary infection; her general condition stabilized. The patient was discharged in ten days with overall good health and immense gratitude regarding the compassionate and highly professional treatment.

Awards & Recognition

Tata Elxsi and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Automotive Platforms Drive SDV Adoption in Next Generation Mobility

Tata Elxsi aims to collaborate with Qualcomm to create VSoCs for the Snapdragon Digital Chassis, which will be utilized for cloud-native application development.

At CES 2025, Tata Elxsi will showcase a live demonstration of the company’s AVENIR™ SDV suite of solutions integrated with Qualcomm Technologies’ Snapdragon Ride Flex SoC that implements a cloud-native and virtualized approach to automotive software development.

BENGALURU: Tata Elxsi, Inc. has announced its plans to work with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to develop and leverage virtual models of Snapdragon® Digital Chassis™ solutions for cloud-native application development. Through the intended technology collaboration, which will be demonstrated at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, Tata Elxsi will develop a virtual electronic control unit (ECU) platform for automakers and Tier-1 suppliers using Snapdragon virtual system-on-chips (VSoCs) for the next-generation of mobility solutions for passenger, commercial, and off-highway vehicle segments.

Tata Elxsi aims to utilize the Snapdragon Digital Chassis VSoCs to help revolutionize the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) development process, enabling R&D teams to accelerate software development and validation. By reducing the dependency on hardware availability, this initiative aims to streamline and speed up product development lifecycles, ensuring that advanced mobility solutions reach the market faster and more efficiently.

At CES 2025, Tata Elxsi will showcase this process using the company’s AVENIR™ SDV suite of solutions integrated with Qualcomm Technologies’ Snapdragon Ride™ Flex SoC. The demonstration will highlight real-world use cases, including mixed-critical workloads for infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems.

“Our planned work with Qualcomm Technologies reflects Tata Elxsi’s leadership and investments in SDV technologies and the future of cloud-native automotive software development. Tata Elxsi’s AVENIR suite with Snapdragon Digital Chassis solutions offers a high-performance, scalable solution for automakers to realize the next generation of SDVs. This unique combination of world-class software and system expertise, virtualized models, and ready-to-adopt SDV software offers OEMs a compelling and future-ready path to SDVs and next-generation mobility,” said Shaju S, Vice President & Head of Transportation Business Unit, Tata Elxsi.

“Tata Elxsi’s demonstration of enabling Snapdragon virtual SoCs for early development in a cloud-native environment leveraging their AVENIR SDV suite offers the developer community a cost-effective, early access to target hardware and reduces time to market for new application development. Access to leading-edge, high-performance heterogeneous compute environments in the cloud truly enables the future of pre- and post-production approaches to software development. It also facilitates continuous updates of new features throughout the lifecycle of the vehicle, enabling our partners to deliver a rich experience to the end consumer and build new business models,” said Laxmi Rayapudi, VP of Automotive Software Product

Awards & Recognition

Anthem Biosciences Limited Files DRHP for Rs. 3,395 Crore IPO

MUMBAI: Anthem Biosciences Limited, an innovation-driven and technology-focused Contract Research, Development, and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO) with fully integrated operations spanning across drug discovery, development, and manufacturing has filed the draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with capital markets regulator, SEBI to raise funds through an initial public offering (IPO).

Ajay Bhardwaj (Chairman, MD & CEO), Ishaan Bhardwaj (Vice President), Ganesh Sambasivam (Executive Director), and K Ravindra Chandrappa (Executive Director) are the Promoters of the company.

The IPO of the Bangalore-based company comprises an Offer for Sale (OFS) of equity shares aggregating up to Rs. 3,395 crores by the Selling Shareholders.

The OFS comprises of:-

Equity Shares aggregating up to Rs. 350 crores each by Ganesh Sambasivam and K Ravindra Chandrappa (Promoter Selling Shareholders);

Equity Shares aggregating up to Rs. 1,325 crores by Viridity Tone LLP and up to Rs. 320 crores by Portsmouth Technologies LLC (Investor Selling Shareholders);

Equity Shares aggregating up to Rs. 320 crores each by Malay J Barua, Rupesh N Kinekar, Satish Sharma, up to Rs. 80 crores by Prakash Kariabettan and up to Rs. 10 crores by K Ramakrishnan (Other Selling Shareholders)

The company which was incorporated in 2006, has two operational manufacturing facilities in India, Unit I (Bommassandra) and Unit II (Harohalli), both in Karnataka, with an aggregate annual custom synthesis capacity and fermentation capacity of 270 kL and 142 kL, respectively, as of September 30, 2024. The third manufacturing facility – Unit III in Harohalli is under construction and is expected to be fully operational in the first half of 2025.

Anthem’s business comprises CRDMO services and the manufacture and sale of Specialty Ingredients. It offers a comprehensive, integrated, and highly customizable range of CRDMO services across the New Chemical Entity (NCE) and New Biological Entity (NBE) lifecycles. It has a strong presence across various modalities, such as RNAi, ADC, peptides, lipids, and oligonucleotides, and manufacturing techniques, such as flow chemistry, enzymatic processes, biocatalysis, and fermentation, offering a broad range of technology capabilities for drug development.

It also manufactures and sells complex specialized fermentation-based Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), including probiotics, enzymes, peptides, nutritional actives, vitamin analogs, and biosimilars.

Its revenue from operations increased by 34.3% to Rs. 1,419 crores in Fiscal 2024 from Rs. 1,056 crores in Fiscal 2023. The PAT for the year ended March 31, 2024, was Rs. 367 crores.

Sai Life Sciences Limited, Syngene International Limited, Suven Life Sciences Limited and Divi’s Laboratories Limited are the listed peers of Anthem Biosciences as per its DRHP.

The Book Running Lead Managers to the offer are JM Financial Limited, Citigroup Global Markets India Private Limited, J.P. Morgan India Private Limited, and Nomura Financial Advisory and Securities (India) Private Limited.

The equity shares are proposed to be listed on BSE and NSE.

Awards & Recognition

Air India Pioneers In-Flight Wi-Fi


Mockup of smartphone during flight trip. Layout mock up ready for your design preview. Woman sit down inside the plane holding the phone device to see a message on airplane.

Starting 1 January 2025, in-flight Wi-Fi services are available on all flights operated by Air India’s A350, B787-9 and select A321neo aircraft.

Wi-Fi is offered on a complimentary basis for an introductory period.

GURUGRAM: Air India, India’s leading global airline, today announced it has rolled out Wi-Fi internet connectivity services on board domestic and international flights operated by Airbus A350, Boeing 787-9, and select Airbus A321neo aircraft.

This makes Air India the first to offer in-flight Wi-Fi internet connectivity on flights within India, enabling travelers – flying for leisure or business – to stay connected to the internet during their flights, and to enjoy browsing, accessing social media, catching up on work, or texting friends and family.

“Connectivity is now an integral part of modern travel. For some, it is about the convenience and comfort of real-time sharing, while for others, it is about greater productivity and efficiency. Whatever one’s purpose, we are confident that our guests will appreciate having the option of connecting to the web and enjoy the new Air India experience on board these aircraft,” said Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Air India.

Accessible on Wi-Fi-enabled devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones with iOS or Android operating systems, the in-flight Wi-Fi will also allow guests to connect multiple devices simultaneously when above 10,000 feet*.

The deployment of Wi-Fi on domestic routes follows an ongoing pilot program on international services operated by the Airbus A350, select Airbus A321 neo, and Boeing B787-9 aircraft serving international destinations including New York, London, Paris, and Singapore.  As with the domestic offer, Wi-Fi is complimentary for an introductory period.  Air India will progressively roll out the service on other aircraft in its fleet over time.

How travelers can access Wi-Fi on board Air India flights:

Enable Wi-Fi and go to Wi-Fi settings

Select the ‘Air India Wi-Fi’ network

Once redirected to the Air India portal on the default browser of the device, enter the required details such as PNR and last name

Access complimentary internet service

* In-flight Wi-Fi connections depend on factors such as satellite connectivity, overall bandwidth usage, routes, and government restrictions.

Awards & Recognition

Unveiling New Air India New York Moments

Air India’s cabin crew recreated iconic New York City moments and visited popular movie locations to celebrate new Air India’s arrival in New York (JFK) and Newark (EWR)

GURUGRAM: Air India, India’s leading global airline, today began operating its flagship A350-900 aircraft on non-stop flights between Delhi and Newark’s Liberty International Airport (EWR). This follows Air India’s A350 service on the Delhi-New York (JFK) inaugurated on November 1, 2024.

With this, Air India now serves all non-stop flights between India’s capital and the New York region with its A350 aircraft, offering its all-new interiors, including private suites in Business Class and a Premium Economy cabin, as well as an award-winning new Inflight Entertainment (IFE) system, enhanced catering, and new serviceware.

In celebration of the launch, Air India’s cabin crew went on a cinematic journey to recreate iconic New York City moments and in search of some of the city’s landmarks featured in globally popular Hollywood and Bollywood movies. Donning their new Manish Malhotra-designed uniforms, here is how they strolled through the bustling city, expressing their excitement and pride for the ‘new Air India experience’ arriving in New York.

THE ICONIC ‘LUNCH ATOP A SKYSCRAPER’ PHOTO RECREATED

Reliving a piece of history, Air India cabin crew members recreated one of the most influential photographs of all time, the iconic ‘Lunch Atop a Skyscraper’ photograph from 1932. The photograph showed ironworkers taking a casual lunch break on a towering skyscraper beam during the construction of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Air India’s crew took a moment to capture the spirit of innovation and adventure embodied in the striking photograph, atop Rockefeller Plaza.

GAPSTOW BRIDGE, CENTRAL PARK

The serene beauty and lush greenery around the picturesque Gapstow Bridge in Central Park has made the bridge a popular choice among filmmakers across generations. This is where Kevin McCallister first encounters the pigeon lady in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, and it is also where the ‘Runway Jungle’ photo shoot takes place in The Devil Wears Prada.

ON THE STEPS OF THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART (THE MET)

The grand staircase of The MET that leads up to the museum’s entrance is a striking architectural feature, and where numerous TV shows and films have been shot. The MET steps were a regular backdrop for the popular drama series, Gossip Girls, as well as for much of the popular heist movie, Ocean’s 8. And in When Harry Met Sally, the funny “pecan pie” sequence, in which Harry and Sally are in a museum and they talk about ‘too much pepper on paprikash’, was filmed here.

AT TIMES SQUARE

The Air India crew strolled the busy sidewalks under the bright neon lights of Times Square, as the highly popular tourist attraction has featured in numerous Bollywood and Hollywood movies. Whether it is the subliminal imagery in Tom Cruise’s Vanilla Sky that shows him running alone through Times Square, the flashmob scene in Friends with Benefits, or Preity Zinta’s happy dance in the Bollywood movie Kal Ho Naa Ho, Times Square dazzles anywhere one sees it, on the silver screen and in real life.

THE NEW YORK TAXIS

The iconic yellow cabs or taxis in New York have become a staple in countless movies set in the city. They often serve as more than just transportation, symbolizing the hustle and bustle of urban life and even playing active roles in plots. Whether it’s a quick cameo or a central element, the New York taxis are a cinematic icon.

THE ROTUNDA ROOM AT THE PIERRE, A TAJ HOTEL

The iconic scene from Scent of a Woman, in which Frank (Al Pacino) and Donna (Gabrielle Anwar) tangoed was filmed at The Pierre, providing the perfect backdrop for the passionate dance and making it one of the most memorable moments in the film. Air India crew stopped by in the stunning Rotunda Room at The Pierre Hotel in Manhattan to remember the iconic film.

SUTTON PLACE PARK (UNDERNEATH QUEENSBORO BRIDGE)

The 1979 Woody Allen classic, Manhattan, known for being a glorious celebration of New York, was another inspiration for the cabin crew members. The Air India crew found the exact spot and recreated the profound scene in which Isaac Davis (Woody Allen) and Mary Wilkie (Diane Keaton) sit underneath Queensboro Bridge, admiring it and talking to each other until dawn. An image of the scene also became the film’s iconic poster.

Awards & Recognition

Waaree Energies Secures 150 MWp Solar Module Order

MUMBAI: Waaree Energies Ltd., India’s largest solar PV module manufacturer and a leader in the global energy transition is pleased to announce the receipt of an order for a major renewable power project of 150MW for the supply of solar modules from a renowned customer engaged in owning, developing, and operating renewable power projects in India.

The contract includes the supply of Waaree’s flagship high-efficiency Glass N-type Topcon bifacial modules, rated at 585/590Wp. These modules are recognized for their durability, exceptional energy output, and advanced technology, showcasing Waaree’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.

The modules are scheduled to be supplied in the next financial year, 2025-26.

As the only solar panel manufacturer in India featured in the RETC PV Benchmarking Report 2024, Waaree’s modules exemplify quality, reliability, and performance. Recognized as a Tier 1 solar module manufacturer by Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF), Waaree operates an NABL-accredited testing lab, ensuring the highest standards of excellence. These accolades reinforce the company’s commitment to powering renewable projects, enhancing energy reliability, and significantly reducing carbon emissions.

The confidence shown by clients highlights Waaree Energies’ commitment to solar PV module manufacturing. The execution of this project will increase India’s renewable energy capacity, leading to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and supporting environmental sustainability.