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Awards & Recognition

Wipro Opens New Smart And Connected IoT Experience Centre In Pune


WIPRO CIB Pune

Driving Leadership with Smart Internet of Lighting (IoL)™ technology and Design Excellence across Workplace, Industrial, and Outdoor Lighting

PUNE: Wipro Commercial & Institutional Business (CIB), a leader in lighting and seating solutions, proudly announces the grand opening of its new Experience Centre in Pune.

The Experience Centre is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses via advanced IoT and Smart Technology applications. Featuring open collaborative spaces, the center showcases Wipro’s innovative Internet of Lighting (IoL)™ solutions and ergonomic seating designs. The center also features vibrant and inclusive designs aimed at boosting employee productivity and promoting mental well-being,

The facility highlights Wipro’s Smart & Connected solutions for Smart Factories, Smart Cities, and Smart Offices, utilizing technologies like Power over Ethernet (PoE) and wireless lighting management systems. The showcase features Wipro’s iSense, an advanced wireless IoT solution, which is widely adopted by office and industrial clients for seamless, wireless control of lighting fixtures, TVs, and AC units.

“The opening of our new Experience Centre marks a significant milestone for Wipro’s Commercial and Institutional Business,” said Anuj Dhir, Senior Vice President & Business Head of Commercial & Institutional Business at Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting. “This center exemplifies our commitment to innovation and excellence, offering customers firsthand access and experience to our cutting-edge solutions. With India’s burgeoning office spaces, industries, and infrastructure bolstered by robust government initiatives and investments, we are poised for unparalleled growth.”

He further added, “ As we expand nationally and replicate this model in key cities, our goal is to make our pioneering innovations more accessible across India. This expansion aligns seamlessly with our growth strategy, reinforcing our mission to deliver comprehensive lighting and seating solutions. This new facility empowers architects, interior designers, facility managers, and business leaders to immerse themselves in transformative smart lighting and seating solutions, offering practical insights to enhance their work environments.”

The facility provides live demonstrations that show how different lighting settings can influence space functionality and mood. Visitors can explore Wipro’s innovative and ergonomically designed seating solutions and receive personalized advice and project support from in-house design consultants and technical experts.

Wipro Seating Solutions offers a variety of solutions for offices, public spaces, collaborative environments, and auditoriums. The company has integrated acoustic materials, launching partitions and luminaires that add vibrancy to office interiors while delivering excellent noise reduction for peaceful and productive workspaces.

In addition, as part of Wipro’s Industrial Solutions, the company offers advanced LED highbay products that are designed for high ambient temperature environments, such as foundries and glass plants, exemplifying its innovative approach to industrial lighting. The company’s smart industrial lighting solutions, utilizing the iSense IoT lighting management system, have received high praise from industrial customers.

Wipro has revolutionized office lighting with its brightness management concept, providing optimal and soothing illumination. The company’s dedication to Green Building and WELL standards has earned substantial recognition, illuminating around 55% of green building projects in India, including the nation’s first Green Building in Hyderabad.

Wipro CIB is certified with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001, ensuring the highest standards of quality in its products and services. Wipro’s commitment to product and design innovation has earned national and international recognition, including awards such as the Red Dot Award, the India Design Mark, the Frost & Sullivan Award for LED lighting visionary innovation leadership, and the International Diamond Prize for excellence in quality by ESQR.

Business

Good news for 1 crore central employees and pensioners! Proposal received to give 18 months’ DA arrears

18 Months DA Arrear Proposal: There is good news for 1 crore central employees and pensioners. Employees can get 18 months DA arrears. Modi government has received a proposal to give 18 months DA arrears to employees.

It is expected that the government can announce the arrears in the budget. Shiv Gopal Mishra, Secretary, Joint Consultative Machinery, National Council (Employees Side) for Central Government Employees has urged the Central Government to release the 18 months DA arrears that were pending earlier.

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Central employees will get 18 months DA arrears

Will central government employees and pensioners get the pending Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) arrears of 18 months during the COVID-19 pandemic? Actually, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received a proposal in this regard. In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the central government had stopped the payment of DA and DR for 18 months from January 2020 to June 2021. Earlier, Mukesh Singh, General Secretary of Bharatiya Pratiraksha Mazdoor Sangh had urged the central government to release the payment.

Also Read: IRCTC and DMRC Introduce ‘One India-One Ticket’ With QR Code Integration For Delhi Metro, read details

DA stopped during Covid has not been received yet

DA arrears of 18 months are still pending. According to a letter written to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, it is written in the letter that we fully understand the financial difficulties caused by the Kovid 19 epidemic. Due to this, three installments of Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) were stopped for the financial year 2020-21. However, as our country is slowly recovering from the effects of the epidemic, it is a pleasure to see the improvement in the financial condition of our country.

Modi government received the proposal for 18 months DA arrears

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Mishra said that as Secretary (Employee Side) of the National Council (JCM), it is my duty to draw your attention to some major issues that are bothering the central government employees and pensioners. If the government accepts the proposal of 18 months DA arrears, then the employees can get a big amount in salary. This will help them in times of inflation.

Ration Card e-KYC Online || Big Update on Ration Card || Ration Card e-KYC kaise kare Online

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Technology

Anand Mahindra shares video of new tech detecting veins using infrared light

Anand Mahindra shares video of new tech detecting veins using infrared light

IANS

Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra has shared a video on the social media platform X, showing a new technology detecting veins using infrared light.

“Using infrared light to locate veins. Saving the pain from repeated attempts to find a vein when drawing blood,” he wrote.

Praising the technology, the Mahindra Group Chairman said that it’s often the smallest, least glamorous inventions which “significantly improve our medical experience and hence, the quality of our lives”.

Since being shared, the video has been viewed over 680K times. A lot of users also shared their thoughts in the comment section.

“This is brilliant and could prevent a lot of phobias. From personal experience, the practicality of this would have saved a number of traumas. Helps the professional and the patient,” a user wrote.

Anand Mahindra

aIANS

“We need this Tech at local blood test centres; last year, my yearly check-up nurse did four punctures in my hands,” another user said.

One more user mentioned, “This will be really helpful. My mom faces this challenge when we do blood tests for her and it requires an experienced person to identify the vein. This technology can enable a lot of people in the medical industry.”

(With inputs from IANS)

Auto & Electric Mobility

Analog Devices Expands its Presence in India with New Centre in Hyderabad

Analog Devices, US-based semiconductor company, sees significant growth opportunities in the Indian market.

Already established in Bengaluru and Gandhinagar, the company plans to open a new centre in Hyderabad.

Vivek Tyagi, MD of Field Sales at Analog Devices India (ADI) said that in the past eight months, Analog Devices grew its headcount by 30% in India, emphasising its focus on the region.

The company employs about 1,500 people in India, with around 1,200 being engineers. Tyagi noted the growing electric vehicle market in India, especially the two-wheeler segment, where over 10% of sales are electric.

The EV industry forecasts that 50% of two-wheelers sold will be electric in India by 2030. Electrification trends and higher semiconductor usage in electric cars are key drivers.

Tyagi also emphasised the contribution of electronic systems to India’s GDP, estimated at $300 billion.

He highlighted the company’s focus on technological innovation, including the wireless battery management system (BMS), first shipped in 2021.

Srinivas Prasad, senior director and India Site Head, stated that Analog Devices will continue to invest in assets, sales, and infrastructure in India.

Analog Devices reported an annual revenue of $12.3 billion in the last year and is leveraging Artificial Intelligence.

Awards & Recognition

The Hottest New Openings In Saudi: Prepare For An Unforgettable Stay


The Hottest New Openings In Saudi

SAUDI ARABIA: A dynamic destination with plenty on offer, Saudi has something for everyone. Whether you’re the type of traveler who seeks a quiet hotel on a private island, a remote desert getaway, a bespoke wellness retreat, or a lavish spot in a bustling city – we’ve got you covered!

Gearing up to take Saudi’s spirit of hospitality to a whole new level, the country is slated to welcome a series of new properties set against some of the most spectacular backdrops. Blending nature, tradition, and modernity, here’s a look at the hottest new openings that will forever change your definition of a ‘hotel’.

Six Senses Southern Dunes

Set against the mesmerizing backdrop of desert plains and the Hijaz Mountains, stands the Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea resort that honors the Nabataean architectural heritage and majestic desert surroundings. With Oasis being the heart of the resort, the canopy of the hotel, inspired by a desert flower is a self-shading structure that will host vibrant activities and functions under one roof. The villas are structured parallelly for the guests to enjoy the views of the surrounding dunes. This spot also has two signature restaurants, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a world-class Six Senses Spa for guests to enjoy.

Lastly, a fun fact about this hotel- it made it to the ‘2024 Hot List’ published by Condé Nast Traveller for best hotels in the world.

Desert Rock Resort

Set in a hidden valley and nestled between the mountains is the Desert Rock Resort which will be welcoming guests across the globe this year. Part of Red Sea Global, the hotel will allow its guests to immerse themselves in nature on a whole new level while offering unparalleled luxury.

The hotel is an architectural masterpiece and sits fully integrated in the mountainside, preserving its striking natural silhouette. Offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience guests can even stay in rooms carved out of the rock itself. All rooms provide undisrupted views out to the horizon, allowing guests to admire the vast desert vistas that stretch out ahead.

Nujuma, A Ritz Carlton Reserve The Red Sea

Blending intuitive and heartfelt service with stunning natural beauty and indigenous design, Nujuma is the first property from the brand in the Middle East and joins an exclusive collection of only five Ritz-Carlton Reserves worldwide. The hotel is situated on a pristine set of private islands, which are part of the Red Sea’s Blue Hole cluster of islands. Surrounded by unspoiled natural beauty and designed to blend seamlessly with the environment, the resort features 63 one-to-four-bedroom water and beach villas.

When not soaking up the tranquil surroundings from the comfort of their own villa, guests will be able to indulge in a lavish spa, swimming pools, a range of restaurants, and a retail area, or learn more about the prized natural setting at a Conservation Centre.

Bab Samhan, Diriyah

Bab Samhan is set to open its doors this year, making it the first-ever hotel to open within the UNESCO World Heritage site Diriyah. Promising to blend contemporary luxury with the signature Najdi architectural style, the hotel will boast 106 rooms each offering a distinct ambiance that will immerse guests in the culture and history of the area. With the property located in North Diriyah and close to both scenic Wadi Hanifah and At-Turaif, guests get a chance to enjoy the hotel’s amenities as well as nearby attractions.

Dar Tantora, AlUla

Dar Tantora is an upscale eco-lodge from The House Hotel, which has recently opened its door to the world. Located in the historic AlUla Old Town, the property is a fusion of heritage and contemporary design which is set to transport guests back to the 12th century while offering them the utmost comfort of modern-day hospitality. The hotel includes 30 guest rooms created from restored and repurposed historical mud-brick buildings using modern engineering in tandem with traditional materials and techniques for a truly authentic Old AlUla experience.

Edutech & Education

Ethan Falls’s New Book The Closet The Trials of Billy Wagner

Ethan Falls’s New Book The Closet The Trials of Billy Wagner
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New York, NY, July 11, 2024 — Fulton Books author Ethan Falls has completed his most recent book, “The Closet: The Trials of Billy Wagner”: a gripping story of a young man who must face his debilitating fears or endure an existence of dread and distress.

“In this mystery-suspense thriller, eight-year-old Billy Wagner confronts his fears,” writes Falls. “Fear of monsters consumes him, but the darkness leaves him little solace. Imaginary monsters peer at him from behind every door. The spirit of his father always feels so close to him, but he does not feel immune to danger. His mother suspects but can’t be sure that her trust may have been wrongfully placed. One woman, conflicted, loses her battle with the demons that lurk in all her days. With strong will and determination, the convictions of someone who comes to his aid saves him from what could have been a lifetime of consternation.”

Awards & Recognition

Mahindra Introduces New Features In Scorpio-N Z8 Range


Scorpio-N Z8

Introduces new features in Z8 S, Z8, and Z8 L variants for a more premium experience

The Z8 L variant now comes equipped with Ventilated Seats, Auto-Dimming IRVM, and a Wireless Charger (with Active Cooling)

The Midnight Black color option is now available to the entire Z8 Premium Range

MUMBAI: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., India’s leading SUV manufacturer, has introduced new premium features for the Scorpio-N Z8 range, reaffirming its commitment to enhance the overall vehicle experience.

The addition of new features is aimed at providing enhanced comfort, safety, and convenience to the customers. The new features  include ventilated seats, an auto-dimming IRVM, wireless charger (with active cooling) and a high-gloss center console, all contributing to a stylish interior and a comfortable driving experience. Additionally, the Midnight Black color option is now available to entire Z8 Premium Range.

The integration of additional features into the Z8 range of Scorpio-N vehicles strengthens Mahindra’s position as a leader in the SUV market, offering a feature-rich and versatile SUV that prioritizes customer satisfaction and value.

The Scorpio-N designed, engineered and built to be a game-changer with its unmissable design, sophisticated ride and handling, thrilling performance, advanced technology, reassuring safety and its terrain-conquering abilities. Built on Mahindra’s new third-generation body-on-frame platform, it offers class-leading structural rigidity, off-road capability, and exemplary on-road manners. The Scorpio-N is powered by a TGDi mStallion (petrol) engine delivering 200 PS and 380 Nm of torque, and an mHawk (diesel) engine with 175 PS and 400 Nm of torque, available in both 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions, with an optional 4X4 system.

The Scorpio-N is absolutely captivating on the inside, as on the outside offering  top notch craftmanship – rich coffee-black leatherette upholstery, best-in-class command seating position, centre console encased in robust metal finished dual rails, advanced infotainment system and more, taking the premium-ness to the next level. Scoring high on technology, the Scorpio-N includes Adrenox intelligence, 70+ connected car features, built-in Alexa functionality, and a 3D immersive sound system by Sony, all accessible through a 20.32 cm infotainment screen.

New Features introduced in Scorpio-N Z8 Variants:

Z8 S VariantZ8 VariantZ8 L VariantNew Features·        Wireless Charger·        High Gloss Centre Console New Features·        Wireless Charger·        High Gloss Centre Console New features·        Ventilated Seats·        Auto Dimming IRVM·        Wireless Charger (With Active Cooling)·        High Gloss Centre Console

Other Key Specification and Features  of Scorpio-N Z8 Variants

Adds to the features offered on Z6 variant ·    Adrenox Connect·    Alexa Built-in·    R17 Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels·    Rear Parking Camera·    Rich-Coffee Black Leatherette Interiors·    Signature Dual Barrel LED Headlamps·    Sting Like LED Daytime Running Lamps·    LED Projector Foglamps·    LED Sequential Turn Indicator·    Front Chrome Grille·    6-Airbags·    what3words (W3W) – Alexa Enabled·    Android AutoTM + Apple CarPlay Compatibility (Wired + Wireless)·    Touchscreen Infotainment & 17.78 cm Colour TFT Cluster·    Leather Wrapped Steering and Gear Shift LeverAdds to the features offered on Z8 S variant ·    Push Button Start·    Passive Keyless Entry·    Electric Adjust ORVM with Power Fold·    Dual Zone FATC·    Auto Headlamp + Auto Wiper·    4XPLOR – Intelligent 4X4 system with Selectable Terrain Modes (Normal, Snow, Mud & Ruts, Sand) – Diesel (4WD)·    Advanced Electronic Brake Locking Differential – Diesel (4WD)Adds to the features offered on Z8  variant ·    Bigger Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels (R18)·    Sony ® 3D Immersive Audio 12 speakers with Dual Channel Sub-woofer·    6-Way Driver Power Seat·    Front Camera·    Front Parking Sensors·    Driver Drowsiness Detection (DDD)·    Captain Seats option

For Ex-Showroom Prices Visit: https://auto.mahindra.com/suv/scorpio-n/SCN.html#variants-pricing

Awards & Recognition

SPJIMR’s Class Of 2026 – NRI News


SPJIMR’s Class of 2026

Strength in diversity SPJIMR’s PGDM and PGDM (BM) Cohorts for the 2024-26 batch unite diverse backgrounds to nurture leadership and innovation 

MUMBAI: Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) proudly welcomed an exceptional cohort of participants into its Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) and Post Graduate Diploma in Management (Business Management) (PGDM (BM)) programs for the 2024-26 batch. This diverse group brings together individuals from varied backgrounds and exemplifies SPJIMR’s dedication to cultivating an inclusive learning atmosphere to mold future leaders.

Prof. Varun Nagaraj, Dean, SPJIMR, said, “Our diverse PGDM and PGDM (BM) cohorts bring varied personal, regional, academic, and industry perspectives, and promote an inclusive learning environment. Our goal is to develop future leaders who excel in their fields, embody wise innovation, and strive to make a meaningful societal impact. Diversity makes the classroom experience richer, thus preparing our students to drive positive change in their organizations and communities.”

PGDM and PGDM (BM) program participants have come from 26 states and 350 cities across India, ensuring regional perspectives. While the PGDM program has 66% men and 34% women participants, the PGDM (BM) program has 75% men and 25% women participants.

The cohorts bring together an array of academic backgrounds, spanning Banking and Insurance, Finance and Commerce, Arts and Humanities, Management, and Science, with approximately 60% being engineers. The diverse mix ensures multidimensional thinking and innovative problem-solving.

Prof. Renuka Kamath, Professor, of Marketing, and Associate Dean of full-time Programmes, welcomed the participants and said, “Make the most of your two years with us by building your capabilities. As Marshall Goldsmith said: What got you here may not get you there. While likeability is very important to all of us, learn to balance your capabilities with your likeability. Do not compromise capability for likeability!”

Industry experience further strengthens the group. 88% of PGDM participants bring valuable expertise from sectors such as IT Consulting, Financial Services, Manufacturing, Oil and Gas, FMCG, E-Commerce, and Engineering. Participants represent over 200 companies including Accenture, American Express, Blackrock, Deloitte Consulting, EY, IBM, Reliance Industries, and Tata Motors.

Prof. Ashita Aggarwal, Professor, of Marketing, and Chairperson, of PGDM, and PGDM (BM) emphasized the keys to success: “Successful individuals demonstrate three qualities. Firstly, know your strengths and ask, ‘What unique value do I bring?’ Secondly, follow your passion courageously, turning your work into a fulfilling pursuit. Lastly, maintain curiosity and humility—integrity shapes character and guides decisions even when no one is watching.”

SPJIMR’s PGDM and PGDM (BM) programs empower future leaders driven by innovation and a commitment to societal impact, fostering capability and diverse perspectives. SPJIMR looks forward to the transformative journey ahead for its students, celebrating their informed, passionate, and ethical aspirations for the future!

Finance

Shriram Life Posts 62% Surge in New Business Premium


Driven by focussed selling and pan India partnerships, Shriram Life Insurance Company reported impressive earnings for the year ending March 31, 2024, with total new business premium growing by 62% at Rs. 1,871 crore compared to Rs. 1,152 crore last fiscal. Individual new business premium grew 39% to close the year at Rs. 938 crore from Rs. 675 crore in FY23.


 


In the fourth quarter from January to March 2024, the company posted total new business income of Rs. 596 crore, up 50% from Rs. 397 crore YoY. Total premium for Q4FY24 stood at Rs. 1,205 crore as against Rs. 912 crore in Q4FY23. The number of policies also increased 2x in Q4FY24 to 1,76,701 from 88,355 in Q4FY23.


 


Shriram Life’s individual new business premium growth was significantly higher than the private life insurance sector, which grew at only 7% in FY24, making Shriram Life one of the fastest-growing life insurers in the country.


 


In FY24, group premium income rose 95% to reach Rs 932 crore from the previous fiscal’s Rs. 477 crore. Renewal premium stood at Rs. 1,637 crore as against Rs. 1,394 crore YoY. The insurer posted a total premium income of Rs. 3,508 crore, a 38% rise from Rs. 2,546 crore in FY23. The number of individual policies rose to 4,46,730 from 2,88,222 during FY24 at 55%.


 


The company earned a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 158 crore this fiscal compared to Rs. 156 crore YoY. Its Assets Under Management (AUM) in FY24 rose to Rs. 11,282 crore, a 25% increase from Rs. 9,012 crore in the year-ago period.


 


Casparus J H Kromhout, MD & CEO, Shriram Life Insurance said, “Shriram Life’s commitment to driving life insurance for the rural and urban middle class is led by a combination of innovative strategies and technology. These results aptly reflect the work we started a year ago by bolstering sales and aggressively expanding across rural India. By closing the gap between the need for coverage and the availability of affordable plans, we will continue to increase reach and become the most trusted insurance provider for our customer segments.”


 


During FY24, the company supported 58,800 claims in both individual and group policies compared with 48,528 claims settled last fiscal. The company reported a claim settlement ratio of 98% for individual policies while its solvency ratio stood at 2.06%. The company ensures prompt claims settlement for customers with 93% of all non-investigated claims settled within 12 hours of last document received.


 


Shriram Life is expanding its business across geographies with an initial focus on 15 states. In these target states, the company will focus on customer segments where the need for life cover is the highest yet have been financially underserved. The insurer embarked on sales diversification by developing in-house sales capacity as well as partnerships with banks and other institutions.


 


Shriram Life has also amplified its tech capabilities to meet its growing customer base. Initiatives such as the issuance of Shriram Smart Suraksha Card (its policy bond in a ‘pocket’), ShriMithra app, chatbot ShriA and WhatsApp service channels provide enhanced customer service in the language of choice. Shriram Life is licensed to use Aadhaar eKYC with facial recognition for hassle-free and paperless customer onboarding. This service along with ShriMithra app has enabled approx. 90% paperless proposals across channels.

 


The company was appointed as lead life insurer for Telangana by IRDAI, helping to increase awareness and participation in remote areas. With Term plans starting at Rs. 100 per month and Endowment plans starting at Rs. 500 per month, Shriram Life aims to provide its customers with cost-effective and innovative financial solutions that offer coverage as well as savings options. Shriram Life’s empanelment as an Annuity Service Provider with PFRDA has also been a crucial step towards providing holistic solutions to the customer.

 


















Particulars


FY24


FY23


New Business Premium (Individual)


938


675


New Business APE (Individual)


887


641


Group Premium


932


477


Renewal Premium (Indv + group)


1,637


1,394


Total Premium


3,508


2,546


 


 


 


No. of Policies (Indv)


4,46,730


2,88,222


 


 


 


Profit After Tax


158


156


 


 


 


Total AUM


11,282


 9,012


Claims settlement


 


 


Count (Individual + Group)


58,800


48,528


 

All figures in Rs. Crores

About Shriram Life Insurance Company


Shriram Life Insurance Company offers term, endowment, ULIPs and annuities for the rural and urban middle-class at affordable premiums. The average ticket size of the company for individual policies stands at around Rs. 23,000. The company’s protection and long-term savings plans help it give working-class families comprehensive life cover besides offering stable investment solutions for their key life goals. The company has an in-force policyholder base of over 10 lakh.