NewsBizkoot.com

Tag: business

  • $2.2 trillion in infra investment to help India become $7 trillion economy by 2030; Report

    25 pc hike in Centre's capex to spur growth in second half of 2024-25: Report

    25 pc hike in Centre’s capex to spur growth in second half of 2024-25: ReportIANS

    An estimated investment of $2.2 trillion into infrastructure development is imperative to support India’s GDP size to expand to $7 trillion by 2030, according to a report on Thursday.

    To achieve an economic size of $7 trillion, India’s economy is required to grow at a CAGR of 10.1 per cent between 2024-2030, according to the report by Knight Frank India.

    The investment opportunity for private participation in infrastructure development in India ranges between $103.2 billion to $324 billion.

    “India stands at the cusp of a transformative era in infrastructure development. By harnessing the power of private investment, we can accelerate our journey towards achieving our ambitious economic growth targets,” said Rajeev Vijay, Executive Director-Government and Infrastructure Advisory, Knight Frank India.

    The central government aims to reduce its gross fiscal deficit to below 4.5 per cent by 2025 and increasing private sector participation in infrastructure development would help balance fiscal deficit targets.

    At an existing investment share composition of Centre (51.2 per cent), state (44.1 per cent), private (4.7 per cent), the estimated gross fiscal deficit in 2030 will be 4.7 per cent, which is above the government’s defined fiscal deficit threshold.

    In this scenario, the private participation in infrastructure development in India amounts to $103.2 bn until 2030. However, the share of private investment in this composition is negligible and needs to expand.

    Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) scheme has provided affordable housing to low-income families in India

    Investment opportunity for private participation in infrastructure development in India ranges between $103.2 billion to $324 billionIANS

    However, an 10 per cent top up in private investments in infrastructure to 14.7 per cent brings the potential opportunity amount to $324 billion, an annual average of $54 billion until 2030.

    This will potentially support the government to maintain healthy fiscal balances.

    By increasing the private participation in infrastructure development, the government can redirect the expenditure towards other key segments of economic growth such as public healthcare, strengthening human capital, debt payments, etc which will support long-term growth of the economy, said the report.

    On a sector-wise analysis, renewable energy, data centres, roads and highways, warehousing and logistics have significant potential to attract private investments.

    Supported by a rapid urbanisation and shifting demographics, sectors such as urban mass transit, airports, power distribution, etc, hold massive investment opportunities, the report mentioned.

    “For India to achieve its ambitious economic growth targets, massive infrastructure investments are necessary,” the report added.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Toyota Kirloskar Motor Unveils the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle

    Bangalore, 12 December 2024 – Toyota Kirloskar Motor today unveiled the All-New Camry hybrid electric vehicle, designed to be a “Sedan to the Core”. Reiterating its commitment towards realising the carbon neutral goals, the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle is equipped with advanced 5th generation hybrid technology, delivering significantly improved efficiency and enhanced performance. This new model brings unmatched sophistication with cutting-edge safety features, elevated exteriors and interiors, seamless technology integration, thereby deliver the unique aspirations of the consumers. The All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle is more than a car – it’s a reflection of refined style and exclusiveness.

    toyota motor

    Bold Innovation with Hybrid Powertrain: Embracing clean vehicle technology, at the heart of the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle is the powerful yet efficient 2.5L Dynamic Force Engine, delivering 221 Nm of torque at 3200 rpm. Paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), the vehicle ensures a smooth and dynamic driving experience. The e-CVT offers multiple driving modes—Sport, Eco, and Normal—to suit all driving styles and conditions. Additionally, Toyota’s 5th Generation Hybrid Technology System, features a high-capacity Li-ion battery that propels the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle output to an impressive total maximum power of 169kW (230 PS). This sophisticated Hybrid System combines performance with exceptional fuel economy of 25.49 km/l*, making it the perfect choice for the environmentally conscious, luxury sedan enthusiast.

    Speaking on the launch of new model, Mr. Masakazu Yoshimura – Chairman, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “The Launch of All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle is a testament to our vision of developing ever-better, sustainable mobility options in line with the Toyota’s Global Environmental Challenge 2050. India remains a crucial market, and our product strategy aligns with India’s national priorities to lower the carbon emissions and achieve energy security goals. Towards this, we have embraced the adoption of multiple-pathway approach to drive clean mobility and promote mass electrification with greater agility and speed. The introduction of the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle being a green mobility offering, will continue to further strengthens our contributions toward building a futuristic carbon-free, happy society”.

    Expressing his views, Mr. Tadashi Asazuma, Deputy Managing Director, Sales-Service-Used Car, Toyota Kirloskar Motor & Lexus, stated, “The all-new Camry exemplifies our unwavering commitment to crafting vehicles that blend performance, sustainability, and cutting-edge innovation. Developed under the concept of ‘Sedan to the Core’, the All-new Camry delivers an unmatched driving experience thanks to its advanced 5th generation hybrid system, offering enhanced performance and exceptional responsiveness.

    I believe that our new offering will bring the pride of ownership with its sporty design, tech-loaded features and advanced safety systems offering peace of mind to our customers thus reinforcing our vision to offer mobility that is both aspirational and responsible for the Indian market.”

    Commenting on the launch, Mr. Sabari Manohar – Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “The launch of the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle is an exciting milestone for us in India. This new model with its 5th Gen Hybrid Technology, striking design, and luxurious specs, is crafted for those who seek contemporary elements – sleek, spacious, safe & seamless driving experience. Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 and a suite of connectivity features, it offers our valued customers not just elevated style, but also peace of mind, comfort and convenience at every turn. We sincerely thank our customers for their trust in the brand and appreciation for our sustainable mobility offerings that gave us the confidence to introduce this new and advanced model, aimed at fulfilling their eco-friendly vehicle choices”.

    Sophisticated Exteriors with Styling for Bold, Futuristic, and Luxury Lifestyle: The All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle’s sleek design and bold presence makes it an iconic car for discerning sedan fans, seeking luxurious lifestyle and fun-to-drive experience. The stylish front grille and sleek rear design enhances its dynamic look, allowing it to stand out with futuristic elegance that is both captivating and timeless. The hood and fender at the front have been modified to contribute to a refreshed look with bumper and grille redesigned to offer a more dynamic appearance, improving both aesthetics and aerodynamic. Every angle and contour are crafted to demand attention, embodying “Elegance at every glance.”

    Comfortable Interiors that Meet Practical Functionality: The All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle’s interior is thoughtfully crafted to combine functionality with elegance. The Hybrid System Indicator provides real-time feedback on eco-friendly driving, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to sustainability. Comfort is further enhanced with adjustable 2-way front headrests, while the glove box, featuring a damper without a key, offers easy access and a refined touch. The vehicle also offers a fresh look with new seat colours, enhancing the cabin’s sophistication and appeal. The instrument panel, adorned with elegant ornamentation, adds a touch of sophistication, complemented by a piano black finish on the front console box for an exclusive feel.

    Enhanced Safety with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0: Safety is of paramount at Toyota, and the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle is no exception. Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3 (TSS3), this model features an advanced suite of safety technologies, including Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) for enhanced lane-keeping, a Pre-Collision System (PCS) for proactive safety, and Dynamics Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with full-speed range capability. The 360 Panoramic Rear-View Monitor (PVM) improve parking and manoeuvring in narrow spaces for smoother navigation, thereby providing the drivers with greater visibility and control while operating their vehicle. Further, the Vehicle Approach Notice System alerts pedestrians for added safety and the rear seat reminder function promotes safety, ensuring peace of mind and protection for the passengers in their every journey.

    The All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle offers a host of active and passive state-of-the-art safety systems with best-in-class 9 SRS Airbags, Parking Assist with Back Guide Monitor, Clearance & Back Sonar, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist Control, Electronic Parking Brake with Brake Hold Function, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System amongst others.

    Advanced Technology and Seamless Connectivity: With a refined eye for detail, the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle is equipped with a 12.3-inch multi-information display (MID), Toyota’s T-Connect telematics, and seamless integration with a multi-zone climate control system that ensures personalized comfort for every passenger. In line with Toyota’s vision of connected mobility, the All-New Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicle also introduces a Data Communication Module (DCM), enabling drivers to stay connected with their vehicle, ensuring convenience, safety, and technology at their fingertips. Furthermore, the JBL Premium 9 speaker audio system offers an immersive audio experience, enhancing every journey with style and sound.

    The sedan’s ability to shift driving modes along with Ventilated Front Seats and Sequential Shift with Paddles makes driving a truly exhilarating experience. Its cabin is accentuated with a range of advanced features like 10-Way Power Adjustable Driver Seat, Outer Rear View Mirror and Tilt-Telescopic Steering Column with Memory Function, Wireless Smartphone Charger, and Heads-Up Display seamlessly blending best-in-class human machine interface with the interior design. Further, comfortable Rear Seats with Recliner, Power Assisted Rear Sunshade, Audio and AC Controls on capacitive touch panel, placed on the rear arm rest provide a luxurious experience. A three-zone personal air-conditioning releases refreshing nanoeTM X ions that moisturize the skin and hair while deodorizing the cabin. To light up the drive, there is a Tilt and Slide Moon Roof with Retractable Sunshade and a Front Power tilt.

    This luxury sedan is available in four stunning new colours: Precious Metal, Dark Blue, Cement Grey and Emotional Red, offering a palette that aligns with its allure. Other exciting colour offerings of this new model are Attitude Black, Platinum White Pearl.


    Mansi Praharaj

  • Train Ticket Cancellation: Why does the railway charge for cancelling a waiting ticket? where this money is used

    Holi Special Train

    Train Ticket Cancellation: The government said in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday that the Railway Ministry levies ‘clerkage’ fee on all waitlisted tickets and the revenue collected from all sources, including cancellations, is used for maintenance and operation-related work.

    Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in a written reply to questions about cancellation charges on waitlisted tickets, “As per the Railway Passenger (Ticket Cancellation and Refund of Fare) Rules 2015, clerkage fee is levied on cancellation of all waitlisted tickets cancelled through IRCTC website.”

    – Advertisement –

    Will train ticket cancellation charges be waived?

    Samajwadi Party MP Iqra Chaudhary raised the issue of the Railways imposing cancellation charges on waitlisted tickets cancelled due to lack of seats in trains.

    Chaudhary wanted to know “whether the government is planning to waive such cancellation charges on the said waitlisted tickets cancelled by Railways.”

    Why are waiting tickets issued?

    Vaishnav said waiting list tickets are issued to fill seats that become vacant upon cancellation of confirmed/RAC tickets during the advance reservation period.

    “Besides, waitlisted ticket passengers also have the option to be ‘upgraded’ under the updated scheme or transferred to an alternate train under the Vikalp scheme,” he said.

    Asked whether the government has data on revenue collected from cancellation charges, Vaishnav said, “The amount collected on account of ticket cancellation is not kept separately.”

    Waiting list and RAC ticket refund rules

    If your ticket is in RAC and waiting list even after chart preparation and you cancel your ticket 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time of the train, then a cancellation charge of Rs 60 will be levied in sleeper class. Whereas in AC class, Rs 65 will be deducted. The remaining amount will be refunded.

    Related Articles:-

    5 Days Working in Bank: Will banks be open for 5 days from December? This will be the new time for opening and closing branches

    LIC’s special policy for children, you will get guaranteed returns along with insurance

    Best Scheme for Senior Citizens: 0 Risk High return investment scheme for senior citizens – Check calculator


    – Advertisement –

  • Telecom PLI sees Rs 3,998 crore worth actual investment: Centre

    Telecom PLI sees Rs 3,998 crore worth actual investment: Centre

    IANS

    The production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for telecom and networking products has witnessed Rs 3,998 crore worth actual investment (against Rs 4,014 crore as committed investment) by micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and non-MSMEs, the Parliament was informed on Wednesday.

    Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, said in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha that total 42 beneficiaries have been approved under the PLI scheme for telecom and networking products (till October 31).

    In order to promote manufacturing of telecom products and reduce import dependency, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) notified the PLI for telecom and networking products in 2021 with a total financial outlay of Rs 12,195 crore.

    The scheme guidelines were amended in June, 2022 offering 1 per cent additional incentive for products designed, developed and manufactured in the country.

    TELECOM

    Earlier, the government informed that under the PLI scheme for telecom and networking products, exports reached Rs 12,384 crore (till September 30).

    Till September, the applicant companies had clocked total sales worth Rs 65,320 crore, according to Pemmasani.

    Salient features of the scheme are 33 telecom and networking products, incentives ranging from 4 to 7 per cent, an additional 1 per cent incentive for MSMEs for the first 3 years, and an additional 1 per cent incentive for products ‘Designed in India’.

    Meanwhile, the PLI scheme for Large Scale Electronics Manufacturing was notified in 2020 to provide incentives to eligible companies on incremental sales (over the base year) involved in mobile phone manufacturing and manufacturing of specified electronic components, including Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) units.

    By encouraging local production, the PLI scheme has significantly reduced the country’s reliance on imported telecom equipment. According to the government, the Indian manufacturers are increasingly competing on a global scale, offering high-quality products at competitive prices.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Inflation in the United States Advances Ahead of Uncertain Times

    By Quasar Elizundia, Expert Research Strategist – Pepperstone

    “Inflation in the United States has returned to the spotlight with the release of data for November 2024. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed a 2.7% year-over-year increase, aligning with market expectations and slightly above the 2.6% recorded in October. On a monthly basis, the CPI rose by 0.3%, marking the largest increase since April.

    From a core perspective, the Core CPI—which excludes food and energy—remained steady at 3.3% year-over-year, consolidating the persistence of inflation above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. This figure, while anticipated, underscores the challenges for the Fed in bringing price increases to target levels without destabilizing the economy.

    The breakdown of CPI components reveals mixed trends. While energy costs continued to decline (-3.2% year-over-year), food prices increased by 2.4%, driven by rising prices for meats, poultry, and eggs (+3.8%). In the housing sector, the main contributor to the monthly increase, the shelter index rose by 0.3%, accounting for nearly 40% of the overall rise.
    The financial market reaction was relatively mixed. The U.S. dollar initially weakened following the data but later regained some lost ground. In Latin America, the absence of an inflationary surprise was met with relief, temporarily benefiting the main LATAM currencies.

    Looking ahead, markets are currently pricing in a more moderate monetary policy for 2025, with expectations of three 25-basis-point cuts that could bring rates down to the 3.5%-3.75% range by year-end. However, the economic policies proposed by Donald Trump—such as tariffs and mass deportations—emerge as key variables in determining the effective future direction of prices in the U.S.

    Ultimately, while the data was not surprising, it underscores the complexity of the current inflationary environment, where even more intricate factors are poised to play a crucial role in the coming quarters.”

    —


    Mansi Praharaj

  • SWITCH Mobility to Redefine Urban Mobility across India, Europe and GCC with the launch of two new low floor electric city buses – EiV12 and E1

    SWITCH Mobility

    Chandigarh, 12th December 2024– SWITCH Mobility Ltd, subsidiary of Ashok Leyland and part of the Hinduja Group, and a leading manufacturer of electric buses and light commercial vehicles today unveiled its contemporary electric bus platform SWITCH EiV12 – the low floor electric city bus for the Indian market. It is India’s First Low-Floor City Bus with Chassis-mounted batteries, featuring a scalable battery capacity of over 400+ kWh.

    The vehicle was launched by Shri Nitin Gadkari Hon’ble Minister for Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, in the presence of Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of Hinduja Group Companies (India), other dignitaries, and industry leaders.

    On the occasion, SWITCH E1, engineered for the European Market, was flagged off virtually. Both these buses share common design philosophies and EV architecture.

    The purpose-built SWITCH EiV12 platform is indigenously designed, developed and manufactured for urban city commutes, offering global standards in performance, safety, reliability, and comfort. With seating for up to 39 passengers, the SWITCH EiV12 leads its segment, offering maximum revenue potential for operators.

    Mr Ashok P. Hinduja, Chairman of the Hinduja Group of Companies (India) observed while launching these vehicles “These buses are a tribute to the PM’s Make in India vision: made in India, for India and the World. Switch Mobility is inspired to launch newer vehicles with cutting-edge technology and zero carbon emissions, only because of the wonderful road infrastructure that is coming up in India, owing to visionaries like Modi Ji and implementers like Gadkari Ji.”

    Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman of SWITCH Mobility, said, “The launch of the SWITCH EiV12 and the flagging off of the SWITCH E1 for Spain is a proud milestone for the Hinduja Group and Ashok Leyland, underscoring our commitment to sustainable mobility. In addition to the EiV12 and E1, SWITCH is developing a range of new products to expand our global offerings. At SWITCH Mobility, we are driving a greener future and advancing our long-term vision to democratize electric mobility worldwide.”

    Mr. Mahesh Babu, Chief Executive Officer, SWITCH Mobility, said, ” At SWITCH Mobility, we’re excited to unveil two new products for India and Europe, both built on our Global EV architecture. These innovations harness cutting-edge EV technology to deliver superior efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort. Our low-floor electric city bus, designed for optimal energy performance and accessibility, has garnered an overwhelming 1,800 orders—proof of the market’s confidence in SWITCH Mobility’s vision for a sustainable urban transport future.”

    The India electric city bus market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21% by 2030 with an EV penetration of 70%. The total parc for electric city buses is likely to cross 70,000 units by 2030.

    The SWITCH EiV12 sets a new benchmark in passenger comfort, safety, and technology, reshaping the EV landscape. Its low-floor entry with a kneeling mechanism ensures easy ingress and egress, while the automated wheelchair ramp and dedicated spaces make it accessible for differently abled passengers. Designed with women’s safety in mind, it is equipped with 5 CCTV cameras with no blind spots and includes 5 dedicated seats for women. The expansive panoramic glass area, the largest in its segment, offers superior visibility, naturally lit interiors, and enhanced safety. Powered by SWITCH iON, our proprietary telematics system, the SWITCH EiV12 offers real-time vehicle health monitoring, ITMS and efficient fleet management. Its efficient rear-end dual-gun charging interface not only ensures rapid recharging but also optimizes depot spaces, while an IP67 rated battery lets the bus deal with flooded roads with ease.

    The SWITCH E1, our latest innovation designed specifically for the European market, showcases cutting-edge engineering with a lightweight monocoque construction, ensuring optimal efficiency and performance. The SWITCH E1 features in-wheel motors and a flat gangway layout throughout the bus, providing seamless movement and accessibility for passengers. With its triple-door configuration (front, center, and rear), the bus offers unmatched convenience for quick boarding and alighting, perfectly suited for urban transit systems. Capable of accommodating up to 93 passengers, including standees, the SWITCH E1 sets a new benchmark in sustainable, passenger-centric public transportation.


    Mansi Praharaj

  • PF Claim Update: How many days after rejection of PF claim you can apply again , know here full detail

    Many times the PF claim is rejected, which upsets the account holders. But in such a situation, instead of getting worried, it is better that you can withdraw your money by applying again by following some rules.

    You must have often heard that someone’s EPFO ​​claim is getting rejected again and again. If you have also applied for PF claim and you are also worried about it, then do not panic. Last year, EPFO ​​​​issued a guideline to overcome this problem so that customers can avoid facing this problem. Many times after it gets rejected, people do not know how to apply for it again. In today’s article, we are going to tell you when and how you can claim it again after the PF claim is rejected.

    – Advertisement –

    Know why online EPF claim gets rejected

    The main reasons for your EPF (Employees Provident Fund) claim being rejected online can be that the information provided in the online claim form may be incorrect or incomplete for the claim, such as bank account details, member details, or even employment-related details, all of these can be responsible for the rejection.

    Apart from this, a deactivated UAN outside the EPF system or a UAN that does not match the PF. Overall, if you enter the wrong UAN number in the form, you may also have to face rejection. Apart from this, the amount you want to withdraw should also be in your PF account, otherwise your PF claim can be rejected.

    You can reclaim it after so many days

    First of all, you have to find out the reason for the rejection of your PF claim. This information can be found in the PF claim status. It is important to know the reason so that you can rectify it. Let us tell you that within one to two days of the form being rejected, you can apply for the claim again.

    After identifying the cause, you have to follow the guidelines given to fix the problem. For example, if your request is rejected because there is no name on the cheque, you can ask the bank for a new chequebook or submit the bank passbook instead.

    1- Users log in to the UAN member portal using their ID and password.

    2- Click on the claim form applicable for the claim, for example, Form 19, 10C, or 31 from the Online Services section.

    3- Enter your bank account details. Re-enter the bank account number to confirm.

    4- Select the form as per the type of claim you want to apply for.

    5- Fill your details, address and upload required documents.

    6- Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and submit your PF claim application.

    7- Once the application is submitted, track its status on the EPFO ​​portal to monitor the progress of your application.

    Related Articles:-

    Masked Aadhaar: Is masked Aadhaar valid everywhere? Quick step by step download process

    Railway Passengers ALERT! Indian Railways is going to change the numbers of 73 trains running on these routes

    Multiple PAN Cards: THESE PAN card holders may be fined Rs 10,000, know the rules


    – Advertisement –

  • [re]start Launches in Southern California, [re]inventing the Job Search with Advanced Tools and Expert Guidance

    restart-logo

    SAN DIEGO, CA — December 11, 2024 — Transforming the way individuals work toward building fulfilling careers, [re]start, an innovative career development platform, is proud to launch in Southern California. The new career platform not only helps individuals land their next position but also empowers them to create lasting change in their professional lives by combining personalized career advice with the most advanced tools. To help job seekers experience the benefits firsthand, [re]start is offering a free two-week trial, giving users full access to the platform’s features and resources.

    In today’s competitive job market, finding meaningful and lasting employment has become increasingly challenging. In a recent report by the Employment Development Department, California’s unemployment rate rose to 5.4% in October 2024. Today, many individuals face lengthy search periods, averaging over five months to secure a job according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Thankfully, [re]start offers an innovative approach that goes beyond traditional job-hunting methods to help individuals land worthwhile employment without the stress they would face embarking on the process alone.

    “We believe the job search process should be more than just landing a job — it’s about transforming lives,” said Pascal Ferrari, CMO of [re]start. “At [re]start, we’re paving the way for job seekers to not only find employment but also to build a career they love and deserve. We combine the latest tools with expert human guidance to create a supportive, empowering environment where job seekers can truly thrive.”

    [re]start’s comprehensive platform empowers individuals with the tools and resources they need to stand out in today’s competitive market. The service offers a full suite of personalized solutions, including AI-optimized resume building, tailored job matching, dedicated career advisors and in-depth interview coaching. This combination of technology and human expertise ensures job seekers are not only well-prepared, but that they are confident in every step of the job search journey.

    One of the key features that sets [re]start apart from traditional job boards is their focus on proactive support. Unlike other platforms that only provide job listings, [re]start connects users with real advisors who understand their unique career goals and provide tailored advice and ongoing assistance. Whether it’s fine-tuning resumes, preparing for interviews or applying to job opportunities, the [re]start team follows candidates every step of the way to ensure they’re moving forward toward their dream job.

    “The [re]start team didn’t just help me find a job — they took the time to understand my goals and match me with the right opportunities,” said Yaakov S., a [re]start member. “They helped me prepare for interviews, gave me the confidence to sell my skills and even provided mock interviews. The entire process felt personal and empowering, and I’m now in a position that I love.”

    In addition to their job-matching services, [re]start helps job seekers grow professionally by providing a deeper understanding of navigating the modern hiring process. Recent studies show that millennial and Gen Z candidates face challenges with interview skills, with 39% of hiring managers preferring older candidates due to communication gaps. [re]start helps bridge this gap with interview preparation and skills training, ensuring candidates are well-versed for their interviews.

    “[re]start is about more than just securing a job — it’s about ensuring job seekers are ready to excel in their careers and reach their full potential,” added Ferrari. “By rethinking how we approach job hunting, we are not only helping people find employment, but we’re also empowering them to improve their lives and unlock new opportunities for growth and success.”

    As Southern California continues to navigate a rapidly evolving job market, [re]start provides a solution that brings hope, empowerment and lasting change to job seekers. Through state-of-the-art tools and technology, the innovative platform strives to transform the way individuals approach career hunting for the better.

    To help users experience the platform’s benefits firsthand, [re]start is offering a free two-week trial. Job seekers can sign up today to access the full range of personalized career development resources and begin their journey toward a fulfilling career.


    Rekha Nair

  • HDFC Bank Parivartan completes five years in West Bengal

    Minoo Biswas, Zonal head – Kolkata, HDFC and Ms. Nusrat Pathan, Head of CSR at HDFC Bank at the HDFC Bank CSR press conference in Kolkata.

    Kolkata, December, 2024:HDFCBank, India’slargestprivatesectorbank,underitsCSRinitiative #Parivartan, has completed five years in the state of West Bengal. During this period, Parivartan has positively reached out to more than 17,000 households.

    HDFC Bank Parivartan initiated its interventions in West Bengal back in 2019 with the provision of Scholarships to underprivileged students. The Bank’s Parivartan program focuses on five key focus areas Rural Development, Promotion of Education, Skill Development & Livelihood Enhancement, Healthcare & Hygiene, and Financial Literacy & Inclusion.

    HDFC Bank Parivartan’s overall outreach in West Bengal is spread across 11districts – Purulia, Bankura, South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, Murshidabad, Howrah, Jhargram, Birbhum, Bardhaman, DakshinDinajpur and Nadia.

    Key interventions in West Bengal

    A few key interventions spread across different districts in West Bengal are:

    (i) Livelihood enhancement of farmers

    Project STREE (Social and Transformative Rural Economic Empowerment), an initiative to empower farmers and rural communities being implemented across four districts and 17 blocks. Under the project 18 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) have been institutionalised bringing together over 10,000 women farmers as shareholders. An additional 24,000 beneficiaries are directly being impacted from interventions like the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices, better inputs, crop advisory, sorting, grading, packing, and storage for assured market linkage. Five Crop Value Chains are being covered through backward and forward linkages.
    66,000 additional farmers benefitted through other income improvement support under multiple projects across the State.

    (ii) Skilling initiative:

    Five state of the art skill centres are running in the vicinity of Kolkata to cater to the employment needs of the urban youths. More than 3000 youths are being trained with full placement guidance at reputed companies.

    (iii) Natural Resource Management:

    Focussed development projects on Natural Resource Management are being implemented in water stressed areas of Bankura, Purulia, Murshidabad, Jhargram and Birbhum. More than 250 Water Harvesting Structures have been created to increase the irrigation command area by 6000+ acres.This is augmenting water storage capacity resulting in additional livelihood scope through aquaculture and livestock farming.(iv) Rural Development:

    Holistic Rural Development project has been implemented in 15 villages of the disaster-prone Sagarisland, in the Sundarbans. More than 4000 households have been benefitted through access to renewable energy, smart school infrastructure, clean drinking water, coastal land restoration and so on.

    Ms.NusratPathan, Head of CSR at HDFC Bank, “At HDFC Bank, we focus on fostering socio-economic development by empowering communities and creating positive change at the grassroots level. We have launched portfolio of projects to achieve these goals in the state of West Bengal. We are committed to driving sustainable development with concentrated efforts on livelihood, education, skill development, natural resource management and community wellbeing.”

    “We are dedicated to offering a comprehensive range of banking services throughout the state, ensuring accessibility for all. As a socially responsible corporate citizen, HDFC Bank is equally focused on doing its part to bring about meaningful change in the lives of individuals and families. We remain committed to supporting communities with the resources, training, and guidance they need to thrive,” said Mr. Sandeep Kumar, Branch Banking Head, HDFC Bank.

    HDFC Bank was among the top CSR spenders in the country for the financial year ending March 2024. As of 31st March 2024, the Bank spent Rs 945.31 crore on CSR initiatives across the country. The Bank also expanded its impact by reaching more than 10.19 crore beneficiaries cumulatively as of March 2024 in the entire nation.


    Mansi Praharaj