India Awaits Musk’s Response As Centre Clears Road For Tesla’s EntryIANS
Tesla lovers in the country are anxiously waiting for the first response from Elon Musk after the government approved a new electric vehicle (EV) policy that is designed to attract investments in the EV space by global manufacturers like the Musk-run electric car company.
It was in 2015 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Tesla headquarters in Palo Alto, California and met the billionaire who gave the Prime Minister a tour of the company’s electric car plant.
In later years, the billionaire sought customs duty to be lowered so that he could bring Tesla vehicles to the country.
Presently, customs duty on cars imported as completely built units (CBUs) varies from 60-100 per cent, depending on their cost.
In the new policy, the government has reduced the customs duty to 15 per cent, with certain riders.
“The customs duty of 15 per cent (as applicable to completely knocked down or CKD units) would be applicable on the vehicle of minimum value of $35,000 and above for a total period of five years subject to the manufacturer setting up manufacturing facilities in India within a 3-year period,” according to the government.
Tesla CEO Elon MuskIANS
This now paves the way for Musk to enter the Indian market.
Last year, PM Modi met Musk in the US and appreciated his efforts at making technology accessible and affordable in various sectors.
The Prime Minister invited Musk to explore opportunities in India for investments in electric mobility and the rapidly expanding commercial space sector.
After hearing PM Modi’s ‘Make in India’ pitch, the Tesla CEO announced that his electric vehicle and battery company will come to the country “as soon as it is humanly possible”.
“He (PM Modi) really cares about India because he’s pushing us to make significant investments in India, which is something that we intend to do and we’re just trying to figure out the right timing,” said the billionaire.
In the new EV scheme, the government mentioned that a minimum investment of Rs 4,150 crore (about $500 million) will be needed to set up manufacturing facilities and production started within three years and reach 25 per cent DVA (domestic value addition) by three years and 50 per cent DVA within 5 years at the maximum.
India’s EV market has the potential to achieve over 40 per cent penetration with $100 billion revenue by 2030.
Sleep like a baby: Best kept secrets for quality night’s rest [read now]Pixabay
Not many may know, but March 15 is celebrated as the World Sleep Day every year to raise awareness about the importance of sound sleep for health and well-being. The theme this year is Sleep Equity for Global Health. India faces extreme sleep health crisis, which further contributes to diseases affecting brain and heart. It is common knowledge that sleeping a minimum of seven hours every day is essential for good health, if not it can affect your body, both physically and mentally. But sleep deprivation is one of the highest in India among global countries.
To take note of this, on the occasion of World Sleep Day, let’s take a closer look at what takes away our good night’s sleep (no, it’s not love) and how to get it back.
First of all, adequate sleep benefits brain function, immune response, metabolism, stress reduction, and skin repair. Further, lack of sleep is also linked to early dementia, affecting both short and long-term memory, concentration, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, said Dr Satish Nirhale, Consultant Neurologist at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pune. It can also raise mental health problems like irregular mood swings, and anxiety, and potentially lead to depression.
We spoke to Dyson engineer Michael Love, who shared some practical tips on how to enhance sleep quality.
Don’t ignore the lights: According to research, exposure to artificial light, especially from electronic devices, can disrupt sleep patterns, which in turn affects daytime efficiency. One can consider using lights that promote relaxation and gradual wake-up.
Mattress care: Despite appearing clean, mattresses can harbor microscopic organisms that affect sleep quality. Dust mites, bacteria, viruses, and allergens accumulate in mattresses, potentially impacting health. Additionally, materials in mattresses and bedding may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), further compromising air quality.
One must regularly wash and vacuum mattresses to reduce allergen buildup. As we’ve tested with Dyson cordless vacuums, the powerful suction effectively removes embedded dust and allergens from mattresses.
Purifying the air in silence: If one invests in an air purifier, the constant buzzing sound can disrupt sleep, leading to poor rest. There are plenty of air purifiers, that do not make sound and have a special setting for nighttime purification, such as Dyson’s Purifier range with night mode for quiet operation.
Sleep like a baby: Best kept secrets for quality night’s rest [read now]
Pollution inside homes: Homes are often considered free from pollution, but it’s the exact opposite. Indoor air pollution, prevalent in India, can significantly impact sleep quality. An air purifier that effectively captures ultra fine pollutants and gases is highly recommended in cities like Delhi. By improving indoor air quality, one can create a cleaner sleep environment.
Set the temperature: Maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels is essential for comfortable sleep. This is often ignored, but if one has already invested in any of Dyson’s purifier range, it lets you control environmental conditions from the MyDyson app or remote control,
With these few simple tips, sleep quality can be enhanced, and the difference will be evident during the day.
Samsung Unveils Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G in IndiaSamsung
Samsung is keeping busy this year with new launches and it has now come with its new A series devices — Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G. The devices, which were unveiled on March 14, 2024, are set to be available for purchase via Live Commerce on Samsung.com and across Samsung exclusive and partner stores, as well as other online platforms starting March 18.
The Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G are priced starting at Rs 27,999, offering consumers a high-end smartphone experience at a relatively affordable price point. The devices are available in three striking colors — Awesome Lilac, Awesome Iceblue, and Awesome Navy, adding a touch of personalization for the users.
The company has incorporated multiple flagship-like features in these devices, including Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection, which is known for its superior scratch and damage resistance.
Flagship Features and Superior Camera Capabilities
The camera features have been enhanced by AI, promising superior image quality and a seamless photography experience. The Galaxy A55 5G comes with a 50MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and a 12MP ultra-wide camera, while the Galaxy A35 5G is equipped with a 50MP main camera with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. Both devices also feature a 5MP macro camera, allowing users to capture intricate details with precision.
The Galaxy A55 5G boasts a 32MP front camera, while the Galaxy A35 5G comes with a 13MP front camera, ensuring high-quality video chats and self-portraits. Both devices come with a 6.6-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display, renowned for its vibrant colors and deep blacks. The display also boasts a refresh rate of 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and a superior gaming experience.
The devices are powered by an Octa Core (2.4GHz Quad A78 + 2GHz Quad A55 CPUs) Exynos 1380 processor, with 8GB / 12GB RAM options, and Mali-G68 MP5 GPU. The devices also support expandable storage up to 1TB via a micro SD card.
Long-lasting Battery and Enhanced Security
The Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, ensuring that users can enjoy a full day of use on a single charge. The devices also support 25W fast charging, allowing users to quickly power up their devices, minimizing downtime and enhancing convenience.
SamsungIBT
On the software front, the devices run on Android 14 with One UI 6.1. Samsung has also incorporated its proprietary security solution, the Samsung Knox Vault, in these devices. This tamper-resistant security solution provides a secure environment for sensitive data, and additional features like Auto Blocker and Private Sharing offer further protection.
Samsung’s commitment to providing regular updates is also evident in these devices. Both models support up to four generations of Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates, ensuring that the devices remain secure and up-to-date for a significant period of time.
With their flagship-like features, affordable price point, and Samsung’s commitment to regular updates, these devices are set to offer a powerful and versatile mobile experience to users in India. This launch is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to innovation and providing high-quality devices that cater to the needs and preferences of consumers.
Samsung Unveils Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G in IndiaSamsung
Samsung is keeping busy this year with new launches and it has now come with its new A series devices — Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G. The devices, which were unveiled on March 14, 2024, are set to be available for purchase via Live Commerce on Samsung.com and across Samsung exclusive and partner stores, as well as other online platforms starting March 18.
The Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G are priced starting at Rs 27,999, offering consumers a high-end smartphone experience at a relatively affordable price point. The devices are available in three striking colors — Awesome Lilac, Awesome Iceblue, and Awesome Navy, adding a touch of personalization for the users.
The company has incorporated multiple flagship-like features in these devices, including Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection, which is known for its superior scratch and damage resistance.
Flagship Features and Superior Camera Capabilities
The camera features have been enhanced by AI, promising superior image quality and a seamless photography experience. The Galaxy A55 5G comes with a 50MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and a 12MP ultra-wide camera, while the Galaxy A35 5G is equipped with a 50MP main camera with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. Both devices also feature a 5MP macro camera, allowing users to capture intricate details with precision.
The Galaxy A55 5G boasts a 32MP front camera, while the Galaxy A35 5G comes with a 13MP front camera, ensuring high-quality video chats and self-portraits. Both devices come with a 6.6-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display, renowned for its vibrant colors and deep blacks. The display also boasts a refresh rate of 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and a superior gaming experience.
The devices are powered by an Octa Core (2.4GHz Quad A78 + 2GHz Quad A55 CPUs) Exynos 1380 processor, with 8GB / 12GB RAM options, and Mali-G68 MP5 GPU. The devices also support expandable storage up to 1TB via a micro SD card.
Long-lasting Battery and Enhanced Security
The Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G are equipped with a 5000mAh battery, ensuring that users can enjoy a full day of use on a single charge. The devices also support 25W fast charging, allowing users to quickly power up their devices, minimizing downtime and enhancing convenience.
SamsungIBT
On the software front, the devices run on Android 14 with One UI 6.1. Samsung has also incorporated its proprietary security solution, the Samsung Knox Vault, in these devices. This tamper-resistant security solution provides a secure environment for sensitive data, and additional features like Auto Blocker and Private Sharing offer further protection.
Samsung’s commitment to providing regular updates is also evident in these devices. Both models support up to four generations of Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates, ensuring that the devices remain secure and up-to-date for a significant period of time.
With their flagship-like features, affordable price point, and Samsung’s commitment to regular updates, these devices are set to offer a powerful and versatile mobile experience to users in India. This launch is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to innovation and providing high-quality devices that cater to the needs and preferences of consumers.
The Boult Striker Pro makes a noteworthy entry into the budget-friendly smartwatch market, offering an array of features at an attractive price point of Rs 1,999. From a compelling design to rich features, this budget smartwatch is the gateway to the wearable space for many first-time buyers. Should you consider this smartwatch as you embark on a whole new experience of wearables? Let’s find out.
In this review, we delve into its design, display, features, and overall performance to help you assess the pros and cons of the watch before you make the purchase.
Design and Display:
Boult Striker Pro goes for a Zinc Alloy Metallic Frame and a classic circular dial, but it’s the all-black avatar that gives it a striking appeal. The flexibility to switch between multiple straps adds versatility to its appearance. Despite the chain not feeling premium, the lightweight design is a notable comfort.
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
The 1.43-inch round AMOLED Always on Display with a resolution of 466×466 pixels and a brightness of 750 Nits stands out in this price range. While the 60Hz refresh rate may show occasional sluggishness in animations, the display offers decent outdoor visibility. For the price, what the watch offers is quite impressive.
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
Taking inspiration from some premium offerings, there’s also a functional Crown that allows seamless navigation for those who find the touch a bit sluggish. Interestingly, there’s also Intelligent Voice Assistant and BT Calling feature enhance hands-free control, but it lacks the efficiency of premium counterparts. Overall, the Striker Pro has plenty of features for its asking price.
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
With IP67 water resistance and dustproof capabilities, the Striker Pro ensures comprehensive protection, making it a reliable companion for daily use and intense workouts. This is rare for a smartwatch at its price, but a welcome addition.
Tracking health
Beyond timekeeping, the watch integrates a health monitoring system. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of 120+ Sports Modes and features like SpO2 Blood Oxygen Saturation, Heart Rate Monitoring, Blood Pressure Monitoring, Menstrual Cycle Tracking, and Sleep Monitoring. But upon testing, we found inaccuracies in the results of heart rate, BP and sleep. It did manage to track steps and activity with few inaccuracies. But you cannot fully rely on these stats for your marathon preparations.
1/5
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
But what’s most exciting is the inclusion of an extensive array of customization options, including 150+ Cloud-based Watch Faces and the ability to craft Custom Watch Faces. Animated Watch Faces and multiple UI Styles cater to diverse users.
To top it all off, there’s a useful Find My Phone function, which can come in handy for those who keep misplacing their phones. It is these little features that make the Striker Pro stand out. But having expectations you’d otherwise have of a premium smartwatch is a long stretch for the Boult Striker Pro.
Boult Striker Pro reviewIBT
Conclusion
Priced at an initial offering of Rs 1,999, the Boult Striker Pro positions itself as a wallet-friendly yet feature-rich smartwatch. It emerges as a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable smartwatch without compromising much on features and functionality. But don’t get your hopes too high, as it does offer more for less; quality and efficiency take a backseat in certain areas. But this watch can mark your foray into the wearable space without burning a hole in your pocket.
Samsung made waves with the launch of the Galaxy S24-series, with the S24 Ultra stealing the limelight. Behind all that noise, the Galaxy S24 still managed to make an impact with a clear idea to impress its target audience, which is none other than those looking for a flagship in a compact avatar. Checking all the right boxes, the Galaxy S24 makes a strong case, but the competition is fierce, which means it won’t be an easy race for the tiniest of the S24-trio.
Samsung sent us the Galaxy S24 for review in Amber Yellow, which appears to have a hint of creamy white hue. The matte glass back adds that effect, and frankly, it is the best execution. There are Cobalt Violet, Onyx Black, Sapphire Blue, and Jade Green shades as well, which should fulfil the varying interests of consumers looking to stand out in the crowd. As we set out to test this compact powerhouse, we made many discoveries, which will help you decide if this is the next smartphone you should buy.
Key specs:
Display: 6.2-inch fullHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X up to 120Hz
Samsung Galaxy S24 is a flagship by design, prioritizing sleek form factor and portability alongside cutting-edge features as seen in the S24+ and S24 Ultra. Through its compact design, the S24 gets so much right, making it the best option for those who desire a phone that’s easily handled with a single hand.
Keeping the flamboyancy factor alive, Samsung offers the S24 in various color options like Onyx Black, Marble Gray, Cobalt Violet, and Amber Yellow. In addition, there are some exclusive choices in blue, orange, and green for those who want a bit of pop.
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Samsung Galaxy S24 has a sleek profile of 7.6mm and weighs only 167g. More than the device’s compact and lightweight profile, it is the enhanced ergonomics that impressed me. Yes, those flat edges make sure the phone snugly fits in the hand.
It features an aluminium chassis and Gorilla Glass protection for both the display and back panel, which adds durability. Speaking of which, it boasts an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, putting many minds at ease. The floating lens design layered aesthetically on the matte glass back is a visual delight in itself.
1/2
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Don’t be fooled by that compact size. The Galaxy S24 features a sizable 6.2-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with adaptive refresh rate technology, which seamlessly switches from 1Hz to 120Hz to offer a smooth user experience, no matter the task. The display is surrounded by thinner bezels, which have further been trimmed down from S23, giving a slightly larger screen without increasing overall dimensions. The difference is too little to notice, but a welcome one.
The Galaxy S24’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with FHD+ resolution, HDR 10+ support, guarantees impeccable picture quality. Even outdoor visibility is excellent. For multimedia use, the phone comes equipped with stereo speakers, which offer crisp sound for an immersive experience. But I wouldn’t trade in my wireless earbuds just yet.
1/3
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
The in-display fingerprint scanner is strategically positioned for easy access and quick unlocking. It is one of the better features and accurately functions as intended. It compliments the display very well.
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Samsung Galaxy S24 undoubtedly offers a premium smartphone experience, while maintaining a sleek and compact design, which compels users seeking both style and substance.
Camera
Samsung Galaxy S24 brings minimal updates to its camera, carrying forward the setup seen in its predecessor, the Galaxy S23. With identical specifications, including a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultrawide shooter, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, Samsung appears to have maintained the status quo. The stellar performance of the Galaxy S23’s camera may seem like it’s not a big deal, but the . fierce competition in the smartphone market demands upgrades in some ways. And it appears that Samsung answers those prayers through AI.
The improved imaging algorithms with added features add that extra oomph factor to the cameras. The primary camera captures vivid details with its 50MP sensor, whereas the ultra-wide-angle sensor offers wide shots but without autofocus. The telephoto sensor is equipped with 3x optical zoom, which is an added advantage while shooting portrait and close-up photography under favorable conditions.
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Switch to selfies, the front-facing camera delivers satisfactory results for both photos and videos, The narrow field of view is worth highlighting, but the results are good enough to meet social media needs.
For me, Samsung Galaxy S24’s dedicated telephoto lens is the real advantage, as it offers vibrant colors and minimizes distortion. The zoomed shots excel at maintaining focus and minimizing noise. One small issue was noted in some cases while enhancing darker tones, which increased the brightness of the overall image.The overall brightness of an image. But with sufficient lighting, the issue wasn’t there.
One big part of the camera is Samsung’s Galaxy AI capabilities, which extend beyond hardware specifications. With seamless edit suggestions, the editing process is refined by identifying areas for improvement automatically, like removing shadows or enhancing the image. The generative skills are remarkable and not exclusive to the high-end models, such as the S24 Ultra. With this, I could manipulate objects and backgrounds with ease. My favourite, as I noted in the S24 Ultra review as well, is being able to convert videos into slow-motion effortlessly, enhancing post-capture creativity.
There may be limitations in the S24’s camera hardware, but Samsung’s focus on refining imaging algorithms and integrating innovative AI features justifies the upgrade.
Check out some camera samples shot on S24 below:
1/10
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24IBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24: UltrawideIBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24: Low lightIBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24: Night modeIBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24: Low ambient lightIBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24: Low lightIBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24IBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24IBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24: PortraitIBT
Shot on Samsung Galaxy S24: PortraitIBT
Performance and software
Samsung Galaxy S24 is powered by the in-house Exynos 2400 chipset, delivering flagship-grade performance, but it doesn’t match the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which powers the Galaxy S24 Ultra. The Exynos processor, in itself, is not a bad SoC, as it offers smooth performance for everyday tasks. The only place where strain is sensed is during extended use of resource-intensive applications, but it’s not worrisome. It can handle graphics-intensive tasks with ease, gaming is a breeze; and running those integrated AI features is seamless. The 8GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking capabilities.
1/3
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Samsung did a big one by making the AI features standard across the S24-lineup. I enjoyed using those tools for day-to-day tasks. Features like Live Translate, Circle to Search, Chat Assist, and Transcript Assist are fun to use. Although, the transcript feature came in very handy, it wasn’t accurate even in English. WIth some corrections, I managed to get desired results. Translation of transcribed text from Hindi to English required a lot of work. Other AI features, however, worked just as they did on the S24 Ultra, so you can read all about them in our S24 Ultra review.
Coming to the software, Samsung Galaxy S24 runs the latest Android 14-based OneUI 6.1 out of the box. The UI has a familiar layout, but with several refinements under the surface. Samsung has improved the quick settings, streamlined weather app, expanded customization options, and more. With these updates, the OneUI is more refined than ever. To top it all off, Samsung has extended its software support for the device, committing to seven major updates, which is the longest any OEM offers besides Google. This way, the S24 will get new updates until 2031.
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Battery
Samsung Galaxy S24 is equipped with a 4,000mAh battery, which supports 25W wired fast charging and 15W wireless charging capabilities. Going by the competition standards, the fast charging feature may not be fast enough, but the overall charging experience isn’t sluggish. Having a small battery size also helps in this regard. We got a full charge from 0 to 100 percent in little over an hour. By now, it’s pretty much a norm, but it’s noteworthy that the device only comes bundled with a Type-C charging cable, and an adapter must be purchased separately if you don’t own a compatible brick.
Samsung Galaxy S24 reviewIBT
Once fully charged, Samsung Galaxy S24 offers a decent battery backup. It generally lasts through the day with regular usage. But if you’re engaging in slightly more demanding activities such as navigation and recording high-resolution video, gaming, you may need to recharge the device at least once during the day.
It’s not the best smartphone for battery life, but it gets the job done. The compact size of the phone limits the area for a larger battery pack, meeting the battery expectations of a compact phone.
Verdict
Samsung Galaxy S24 stands out as a sleek and portable flagship smartphone, offering a durable build with an aluminum chassis and Gorilla Glass protection. With an excellent AMOLED display, flagship-grade performance, and AI-enhanced camera features, the Samsung Galaxy S24 shines in premium smartphone category under Rs 1 lakh. The slower charging compared to rivals may be a bummer, but not a deal-breaker, considering it offers a decent battery backup. The extended software support is a boon, which ensures the longevity of the device.
Pros:
Sleek and portable design prioritizing single-handed usability
Saloni Thakkar is a notable innovator in the ever-changing field of artificial intelligence (AI), especially in the Fintech AI space. Saloni is an accomplished Data Scientist who specializes in financial technology. She has carved out a remarkable career for herself by using her broad skillset to expand the potential of AI-powered financial solutions.
High Academic Standing and Technical Expertise
Saloni’s entry into the Fintech AI space is based on a strong academic background and a dedication to continuous learning. With a Master of Science in Management Information Systems from Texas A&M University and internship experience at HP as a data scientist, Saloni has a special combination of practical experience and academic understanding.
She is proficient in several different technologies, such as Python, R, SQL, PySpark, TensorFlow, AWS, Keras, Natural Language Toolkit, and NoSQL. Her extensive knowledge of finance and industry norms is further demonstrated by her certifications in FINRA SIE, Series 7, and Series 63. Saloni has gained global recognition as a distinguished judge for prestigious international award programs, and university hackathons at University of Princeton and Georgia Tech University.
Academic Initiatives and Developments: Extending Fintech AI Boundaries
Saloni’s enthusiasm for innovation is evident in her significant academic endeavors as well as her corporate activities. Among these Saloni’s expertise spans across dynamic domains, exemplified through her impactful work experiences. In her tenure at Texas A&M University, she revolutionized marketing strategies by harnessing the power of data. Leveraging sentiment analysis and Natural Language Processing (NLP), Saloni identified the top 5 NBA teams based on tweets, amplifying marketing insights through Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA). Her adeptness in fine-tuning models led to a remarkable 16% enhancement in the baseline model’s performance through hyperparameter optimization.
Furthermore, Saloni showcased her proficiency in data analytics and fraud detection during her stint in Credit Card Fraud Detection from November 2020 to January 2021. Employing exploratory analysis techniques, she identified crucial variables and patterns, effectively mitigating missing values using the SMOTE technique and KNN imputation. This meticulous approach culminated in an impressive 82% accuracy rate, with KNN emerging as the optimal algorithm for fraud detection. Saloni attended the GHC (Grace Hopper Conference) with Barclays in 2022, which is one of the biggest platforms that promotes diversity and inclusion in the tech world. She helped Barclays shortlist 200 people resumes from 20,000+ talented attendees at GHC by taking interviews. During her time at GHC, she met and meeting with amazing leaders in tech to exchange ideas that can revolutionize the world of AI.
Saloni predicts that Fintech AI will play a major role in revolutionizing the way financial institutions and people handle finances in the future. Her proficiency in machine learning, data analytics, and financial regulations places her in a strong position to spearhead the advancement of Fintech AI technologies, transforming them into increasingly complex, effective, and influential tools.
To sum up, Saloni Thakkar’s experiences and accomplishments serve as an example of how Fintech AI might revolutionize the financial sector. Her singular combination of technical mastery, dedication to innovation, and superior education makes her a trailblazer in the rapidly changing field of artificial intelligence, encouraging others to seize the limitless potential of AI-driven financial strategies. Saloni Thakkar continues to lead the way in the financial technology industry’s transformation, transforming Fintech AI’s future.
IndiaAI Mission: Know all about the 7 key pillarsIANS
As artificial intelligence (AI) begins to percolate across industries amid privacy concerns, the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the comprehensive national-level IndiaAI Mission with a budget outlay of Rs 10,371.92 crore.
By democratising computing access, improving data quality, developing indigenous AI capabilities, attracting top AI talent, enabling industry collaboration, providing startup risk capital, ensuring socially impactful AI projects and bolstering ethical AI, the mission will drive responsible, inclusive growth of India’s AI ecosystem.
The mission will be implemented by ‘IndiaAI’ Independent Business Division (IBD) under Digital India Corporation (DIC), said the IT Ministry.
Let us see what the mission with seven key initiatives will offer.
Recognising the need for adequate guardrails, the safe and trusted AI pillar will enable the implementation of ‘Responsible AI’ projects including the development of indigenous tools and frameworks, self-assessment checklists for innovators, and other guidelines and governance frameworks.
The ‘FutureSkills’ initiative is conceptualised to mitigate barriers to entry into AI programmes and will increase AI courses in undergraduate, masters-level, and PhD programmes.
Data and AI labs will be set-up in tier 2 and 3 cities across the country to impart foundational-level courses, said the ministry.
The IndiaAI compute pillar will build a high-end scalable AI computing ecosystem to cater to the increasing demands from India’s rapidly expanding AI startups and research ecosystem.
Artificial intelligenceIANS
The ecosystem will comprise AI compute infrastructure of 10,000 or more Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), built through public-private partnership.
“An AI marketplace will be designed to offer AI as a service and pre-trained models to AI innovators. It will act as a one-stop solution for resources critical for AI innovation,” according to the Ministry of Electronics and IT.
The next component is the IndiaAI Innovation Centre that will undertake the development and deployment of indigenous Large Multimodal Models (LMMs) and domain-specific foundational models in critical sectors.
Another key aspect of the mission is the IndiaAI Datasets Platform which will streamline access to quality non-personal datasets for AI Innovation. A unified data platform will be developed to provide a one-stop solution for seamless access to non-personal datasets to Indian Startups and Researchers.
The IndiaAI Application Development Initiative will promote the AI applications in critical sectors for the problem statements sourced from Central Ministries, State Departments, and other institutions.
“The initiative will focus on developing/scaling/promoting adoption of impactful AI solutions with potential for catalysing large scale socio-economic transformation,” said the ministry.
Last but not the least, the ‘IndiaAI Startup Financing’ pillar is conceptualised to support and accelerate deep-tech AI startups and provide them streamlined access to funding to enable futuristic AI Projects, said the government.
IndiaAI Mission: Know all about the 7 key pillarsIANS
As artificial intelligence (AI) begins to percolate across industries amid privacy concerns, the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the comprehensive national-level IndiaAI Mission with a budget outlay of Rs 10,371.92 crore.
By democratising computing access, improving data quality, developing indigenous AI capabilities, attracting top AI talent, enabling industry collaboration, providing startup risk capital, ensuring socially impactful AI projects and bolstering ethical AI, the mission will drive responsible, inclusive growth of India’s AI ecosystem.
The mission will be implemented by ‘IndiaAI’ Independent Business Division (IBD) under Digital India Corporation (DIC), said the IT Ministry.
Let us see what the mission with seven key initiatives will offer.
Recognising the need for adequate guardrails, the safe and trusted AI pillar will enable the implementation of ‘Responsible AI’ projects including the development of indigenous tools and frameworks, self-assessment checklists for innovators, and other guidelines and governance frameworks.
The ‘FutureSkills’ initiative is conceptualised to mitigate barriers to entry into AI programmes and will increase AI courses in undergraduate, masters-level, and PhD programmes.
Data and AI labs will be set-up in tier 2 and 3 cities across the country to impart foundational-level courses, said the ministry.
The IndiaAI compute pillar will build a high-end scalable AI computing ecosystem to cater to the increasing demands from India’s rapidly expanding AI startups and research ecosystem.
Artificial intelligenceIANS
The ecosystem will comprise AI compute infrastructure of 10,000 or more Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), built through public-private partnership.
“An AI marketplace will be designed to offer AI as a service and pre-trained models to AI innovators. It will act as a one-stop solution for resources critical for AI innovation,” according to the Ministry of Electronics and IT.
The next component is the IndiaAI Innovation Centre that will undertake the development and deployment of indigenous Large Multimodal Models (LMMs) and domain-specific foundational models in critical sectors.
Another key aspect of the mission is the IndiaAI Datasets Platform which will streamline access to quality non-personal datasets for AI Innovation. A unified data platform will be developed to provide a one-stop solution for seamless access to non-personal datasets to Indian Startups and Researchers.
The IndiaAI Application Development Initiative will promote the AI applications in critical sectors for the problem statements sourced from Central Ministries, State Departments, and other institutions.
“The initiative will focus on developing/scaling/promoting adoption of impactful AI solutions with potential for catalysing large scale socio-economic transformation,” said the ministry.
Last but not the least, the ‘IndiaAI Startup Financing’ pillar is conceptualised to support and accelerate deep-tech AI startups and provide them streamlined access to funding to enable futuristic AI Projects, said the government.
In the technology driven environment, B2B software stands as a cornerstone for business triumph. The fusion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) heralds a new era, redefining operational paradigms and customer interactions. Product leaders like Balaji Ananthanpillai, with their deep knowledge of AI and ML, are indispensable architects of success across diverse sectors. Balaji’s remarkable career is an example of his unparalleled expertise in driving innovation within emerging technologies.
Professional Journey
Balaji Ananthanpillai’s career is studded with remarkable achievements that underscore his proficiency in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies especially in the field of Product Management. During his professional career spanning over 15 years, he held pivotal roles in a few highly prestigious organizations, and significantly contributed to their success. Notable among his previous roles are his tenure at Prime Video & Amazon Studios, where, as a Product Lead, he successfully led the international expansion of Prime Video Channels and the transactional video on demand (TVOD) in Sweden, Poland, Belgium, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia.
Another feather to his hat is his impactful role as a Senior Product Manager at Amazon, where he led the launch of Amazon’s first ever home robot, Astro that leverages Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision, and advanced navigation technologies.
Innovative Leadership in AI/ML Technologies
Balaji has been instrumental in driving innovation in AI and ML technologies, especially within the Human Capital Management space. At Paylocity, he has helped make significant advancements in the field of Workforce Management through development of Next-Generation AI and ML products.
He led the ideation and development of an advanced, ML-based Scheduling product that has revolutionized workforce management. This Scheduling software has enabled users to optimize shift coverage, reduce unplanned costs, boost employee engagement, and minimize no-show rates. A notable product, Recommended Open Shifts that Balaji helped pilot and launch, utilizes historical schedule data to assist supervisors in estimating manpower hours for specific operational segments up to a month ahead. Recommended Open Shifts leveraged ML model and helped enhance operational efficiency, saving millions of dollars in overtime costs, and driving significant revenue growth for Paylocity with an 80% adoption rate.
Transformative Leadership in Product Management
Balaji’s remarkable leadership and product management skills have made a significant impact for Paylocity. His pioneering efforts in establishing Next Generation AI and ML products at Paylocity have completely transformed Paylocity’s operations, reshaping how HR professionals, leaders, and employees communicate and collaborate. Balaji’s innovative AI solutions not only boost HR productivity but also enhance organizational culture and talent retention strategies. Balaji’s expertise in leveraging proprietary AI and ML algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data on the Paylocity platform has fuelled remarkable growth in its workforce management products. These initiatives not only yield stable recurring revenue but also highlight his proficiency in growth product management and strategic vision.
Fostering a Culture of Excellence
Balaji has been able to grow his team at Paylocity from 2 Product Managers to 8 Product Managers in a span of a year demonstrating his exceptional leadership ability in building and leading high-performing teams. His effective communication, mentorship, and guidance have cultivated a culture of creativity, innovation, and collaboration in the workplaces he has been part of. Under Balaji’s guidance, his team consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and dedication to excellence.
Personal Journey and Education
Balaji’s successful professional endeavour is backed by his personal journey, passion for technology and educational background, reflecting a profound interest in technology and a commitment to lifelong learning. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, where he developed a strong foundation in engineering. He later pursued a Master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati, where he conducted ground-breaking research in biological pathway models. Balaji’s academic journey culminated into an MBA from the University of Chicago-Booth School of Business, where he developed critical business thinking to complement his advanced technical acumen.
The Future Ahead
Looking ahead, Balaji remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and driving positive change. His advice to aspiring tech professionals is to embrace challenges, maintain curiosity, and recognize the importance of the human element in technology. Balaji’s career showcases dedication to excellence and innovation. He’s a recognized leader in team building, fostering creativity, and achieving outstanding results.He has partnered with Criya, a Y Combinator-backed AI startup, to mentor people in Product Management. So far he has mentored 150+ individuals in the past year, setting new standards in product management and fueling growth.
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