Swiggy Launches Financial Literacy Initiative for Delivery Partners with NSE

Mumbai, India, December 26, 2024: In a significant step toward advancing financial inclusion and empowering gig workers, Swiggy (Swiggy Ltd, NSE: SWIGGY / BSE: 544285), India’s pioneering on-demand delivery convenience platform, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) at the latter’s headquarters in Mumbai. Swiggy and NSE will join hands to roll out a comprehensive financial literacy program for delivery partners, with special focus on female delivery partners. Additionally, Swiggy also announced that it intends to have 1 lakh women delivery partners by 2030.

The Honorable Chief Guest for the event was Ms. Amruta Fadnavis. In her address, Ms. Fadnavis underscored the importance of empowering women in the workforce and emphasized how financial literacy can contribute to their independence and well-being of their families. She shared inspiring stories of women who have risen from grassroot level. She congratulated the women delivery partners for their successful journey and encouraged them to follow their dreams. Lastly, she reinforced that ‘women are creators’ and need to stay focussed to ensure that their families have a better life.
Integrated into Swiggy’s flagship initiatives, She the Change and Swiggy Skills, the program is designed to equip the delivery partners with vital financial skills that drive household stability, improve socio-economic outcomes, and contribute to the nation’s financial inclusion agenda. Financial literacy has been shown to increase household spending on education and savings by up to 40%, with ripple effects on long-term health, productivity, and overall well-being. This initiative underscores Swiggy’s commitment to the holistic development of its delivery partners and aligns with its sustainability goals to foster community welfare.

Highlighting their efforts towards inclusivity and upskilling of their delivery partners, Sriharsha Majety, MD & Group CEO, Swiggy shared, “Earlier this year, when we launched ‘She the Change’ programme, Honourable Finance Minister. Smt Nirmala Sitharaman Ji, made a very pertinent observation when she said that in areas where women are visibly seen to be running more enterprises such as Food and Beverage businesses, crime and anarchy will gradually reduce. I believe that the presence of women delivery partners on the road is an equally positive signal. We, at Swiggy, will do our utmost in this direction; and commit to take the number of women delivery partners to at least 1 lakh by 2030. We will continue to come out with policies and programmes to support this positive change, and our MoU with NSE is a step in this direction.”

Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, NSE, said “At NSE, we are proud to lead the way in bringing financial literacy and investor awareness programs to the gig workforce, a vital and growing segment of our economy. This partnership with Swiggy reflects our commitment to equipping delivery partners, especially female partners, with the knowledge and awareness of tools needed for financial independence and long-term security. By focusing on financial literacy, we aim to empower gig workers to manage their finances more effectively for their financial well-being. Today’s initiative is another step in NSE’s mission to drive financial inclusion and well-being of people and transform lives through knowledge and empowerment.”

As part of the event, in a Fireside Chat, Rohit Kapoor, CEO- Food Marketplace, Swiggy, interacted with three women delivery partners. The conversation shed light on their experiences, challenges, and the support they have received through Swiggy’s policies, further showcasing the company’s commitment towards inclusivity and development. The conversation reinforced how women working as gig workers have been able to become self-reliant and improve their lives.
Recognizing their remarkable opportunities, ten women delivery executives, who completed the highest number of orders in 2024, were felicitated during the event. Each recipient was awarded a cheque of ₹11,000, intended to serve as a corpus for their initial investments. Sriharsha Majety, alongside Ms. Amruta Fadnavis, handed out the awards in a gesture symbolic of Swiggy’s efforts to foster growth.
The program will feature interactive training sessions led by SEBI-certified trainers, covering topics such as budgeting, investments, debt management, and understanding capital markets. The modules will include AV content and will also be available in the DE app. The app-based training modules will also be localized into regional languages for broader reach.

Empowering Indian Startups: The Circle FC Champions 7 Companies at COMEUP 2024 in Seoul

New Delhi, December 26th, 2024 – The Circle: Founders Club (The Circle FC), a leading cross-border business accelerator for growth-stage startups, has successfully concluded the Korea Market Immersion Program (KMIP) at COMEUP 2024, South Korea’s largest global startup event. The week-long high-impact delegation, scheduled from December 9th to December 14th, 2024, provided Indian entrepreneurs unparalleled exposure to one of Asia’s most dynamic startup ecosystems and technological innovation hub.

The Circle FC’s delegation included companies from diverse sector, like BVersity (Virtual University for Biotech), Aspire India (Employee growth through habit formation), Adgcraft (Comprehensive PR services), Hana Advisors (Business strategy services), Klug Klug (Influencer Marketing Analytics), Dubverse.ai (AI based Video Dubbing Platform) and Nimble Vision (IoT based smart water and sewage management). They showcased their innovations during the Global Community Pitching competition, where startups from 15 countries participated.

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At COMEUP 2024, hosted by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, Government of South Korea, Indian startups participated at the India Pavilion, supported by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Startup India, drawing global attention and networking opportunities. The event organised by Korea Startup Forum, was held under the theme “Innovation Beyond Borders,” and attracted over 20,000 attendees, 260+ startups, and 300+ investors from across the world.

The delegation also engaged in targeted B2B meetings with leading venture capitalists (VCs), corporate venture capitalists (CVCs), top corporations, accelerators, and leading universities unlocking opportunities for strategic partnerships, investments, and market expansion. Startups further explored South Korea’s innovation-driven economy through curated ecosystem tours and direct exposure to government initiatives through visits to Global Startup Centre, K-Startup Grand Challenge, Korea Social Innovation Fund, Indo-Korea Chamber of Commerce amongst others. These sessions highlighted policies, grants, and programs designed to support international businesses entering the market.

Speaking about the success of the Korea Market Immersion Program, Nemesisa Ujjain, VP & Head of The Circle FC, said: “With South Korea emerging as a natural entry point for Indian startups into the broader Asia-Pacific region, KMIP provided them an opportunity to expand horizons, access global investors, and establish strong connections with the Korean ecosystem.”

With the resounding success of this program, the Circle FC is already planning its next cohort, aiming to bring more Indian startups to international markets like Taiwan, Japan, and beyond in 2025.

Tenable Outlines the Top Cybersecurity Trends Expected to Crystalize in 2025

By-Jason Merrick, SVP of Product at Tenable

Everything, everywhere, all at once is not sustainable without context

“As the attack surface continues to expand and threat actors grow more sophisticated, cybersecurity teams will face an overwhelming flood of fragmented vulnerability and threat intelligence data. The days of linear attacks are fading, giving rise to multifaceted, rapid incursions that exploit numerous entry points. In this increasingly chaotic landscape, the inability to remediate everything, everywhere, all at once will make context king. Organisations that prioritise understanding the greatest risk to their business and the most critical vulnerabilities will win. This contextual approach will redefine vulnerability management, enabling cybersecurity teams to act strategically, swiftly, and with greater precision to mitigate threats effectively.”

By-Bob Huber, CSO and Head of Research at Tenable

AI adoption will outpace our ability to get educated on it and secure it

“By 2025, AI adoption will likely have already outpaced our ability to educate users and secure these rapidly evolving technologies fully. As organisations prioritise efficiency and return on investment, the adoption of technologies like AI and cloud continues to surge. However, this swift evolution presents a critical challenge: the knowledge gap. Many users and organisations are struggling to keep pace with the education and training needed to comprehensively understand and protect these technologies. This creates a pressing dilemma—how can we safeguard innovations like AI and cloud when their complexity and growth outstrip our readiness? The challenge for CISOs lies in striking a balance between driving forward technological adoption and ensuring the security and resilience of these tools. Bridging this gap sooner rather than later will be critical for organisations.”

By-Liat Hayun, VP of product and research, Tenable Cloud Security

Multicloud Security Will Dominate as CISOs Embrace Multi-Vendor Platforms

“Multicloud strategies will become the standard in 2025. Enterprises will become increasingly wary of ‘putting all their eggs’ in one cloud service provider basket due to the centralised risk that a single cloud service provider poses. As a result, more and more CISOs will start to prioritise multi-vendor security platforms to ensure consistent protection across diverse environments (i.e., meeting compliance requirements and securely scaling AI-driven workloads).”

Next Bharat Ventures Unites India and Japan at Next Billion Forum

GIFT City, 25th December 2024: Next Bharat Ventures, a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, successfully hosted the inaugural Next Billion Forum. This event marked a pivotal step in fortifying India-Japan ties and fostering strategic investments in India’s underserved regions. The forum emphasized the importance of charting a course for Viksit Bharat 2047 by integrating the rural and informal economy into the national growth agenda. The forum also marked the opening of applications for the second cohort of the Next Bharat Residency Program.

During the forum, 13 impact entrepreneurs from the cohort of Next Bharat Ventures were introduced, and the start of the application process for their next batch was announced. Selected from over 1,500 startups across the country, 50% of these select entrepreneurs are women founders. Next Bharat Ventures, apart from providing risk capital, also provides network and mentoring to these startups.

Launching the Next Billion Forum, Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation said, “Suzuki is proud to contribute to India’s growth story through initiatives like the Next Billion Forum. By fostering innovation, supporting local entrepreneurs, and creating impactful partnerships, we aim to empower Tier 2 and Tier 3 geographies and pave the way for a developed India by 2047. This forum is a testament to the transformative potential of a strong India-Japan partnership.”

Bharat has about 1.4 billion people, but we have only reached about 0.4 billion with our mobility business. Our goal is to connect with the “Next Billion” people of India, extending beyond mobility and becoming a part of India’s future story. Next Bharat Ventures builds on Suzuki’s legacy of solving real-world problems to empower impact entrepreneurs in rural India. By investing in innovative solutions, we aim to create value for both India and Japan, supporting the next billion people and fostering sustainable growth for a brighter future.Mr. Suzuki added.

Themed “India’s Next Billion Opportunities,” the forum highlighted strategies for integrating India’s rural and informal economies into its broader development trajectory. A panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Mohandas Pai, also included esteemed panelists such as Mr. Nilesh Shah, Managing Director at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co., a well-known economist and advisor to the Prime Minister; Ms. Reema Nanavati, Director of SEWA; and Mr. K. Rajaraman, Chairman of IFSCA. Discussions centred on strategies to achieve India’s development goals by 2047, with a special focus on key investment practices to unlock the growth potential of the Next Billion.

Mr. Vipul Nath Jindal, MD & CEO of Next Bharat Ventures, emphasized: “Next Bharat Ventures was founded with the vision of building a community of great entrepreneurs, creating greater impact for the next billion people. The Next Billion Forum represents a transformative step in reshaping India’s growth narrative. By focusing on patient capital and fostering ‘elephant entrepreneurs’—who prioritize social value alongside steady growth—we can drive sustainable, inclusive development. This forum is not merely a discussion platform but a call to action for real change by both India and Japan.

Mr. Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, Govt. of India and former CEO of NITI Aayog, added “India, a $4 trillion economy growing at 8.2%, is the only country building eight airports and three metros annually, 30 km of roads and 13 km of railway tracks daily, and has increased solar energy 31x in nine years. Our virtual banking system handles 50% of fast payments in real-time on mobile and we aim to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047 under PM Modi’s vision to achieve this milestone we require more partnerships like those with Japan, particularly through Suzuki Motors, which has been integral to India’s manufacturing success over so many decades”.

Next Bharat Ventures backed by Suzuki is transforming rural livelihoods by empowering young entrepreneurs and driving value addition in agriculture. I’ve never seen such an investment strategy by any private organization; the impact Next Bharat Ventures will create in the next decade is set to redefine India’s growth trajectory. This initiative will create sustainable jobs and increase producer earnings, fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs in India. Through support in finance, mentorship, and market access, Suzuki is laying the groundwork for lasting change. The Government of India fully supports this transformative program, which will have a profound impact on India’s future.” Mr. Kant concluded.

Further to this, Mr. K Rajaraman, Chairperson of International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), discussed at length how India must move from being a passive consumer to a global leader in innovation and domestic capabilities. He outlined progress in India’s reform journey led by Hon Prime Minister, mentioning “With over 28 international banks and 200 alternate investment funds already operational at GIFT City, we are witnessing unprecedented progress. Initiatives such as Next Bharat Ventures’ impact investment fund registered in GIFT IFSC further underline the critical role of collaborations in unlocking Middle India’s potential and empowering communities. IFSCA’s focus remains on creating an ecosystem that seamlessly attracts global capital while driving inclusive, sustainable, and technology-enabled growth for ViksitBharat@2047 journey.” He also pointed out increased scope for Japanese investors to invest in India.

Mr. Nilesh Shah, Managing Director at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co.; a well-known economist and advisor to the Prime Minister reflected during the panel, “Investors are drawn to India for growth, governance, and efficiency. Over the last decade, Indian markets have delivered 166% earnings growth in rupee terms, far surpassing China’s 10% in renminbi. Despite needing capital, India is an exporter of capital.”

The forum also witnessed the launch of new initiatives aimed at advancing India’s informal and rural sectors. These initiatives reaffirm Next Bharat Ventures’ commitment to sustainable development and fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems across the country’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 geographies.

The Future of Work: Key Job Roles in Green Manufacturing to Watch for in 2025

With sustainability at the forefront of global industry transformation, India is leading the way in revolutionizing green manufacturing. Driven by bold climate goals—reducing emissions intensity by 35% by 2030, achieving 40% non-fossil power capacity, and accelerating investments in renewable energy—the country is reshaping its industrial future. This shift is creating an urgent need for skilled professionals in green jobs, with projections indicating a two-fold increase in the sector’s workforce by 2030, positioning green manufacturing as a cornerstone of India’s sustainable growth.

In light of these trends, Mr. Sumit Kumar, Chief Strategy Officer at TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, shares insights on the top job roles that will define the green workforce transformation in 2025.

1. Sustainability Design Engineer

Sustainability design engineers will be crucial in creating eco-friendly products and processes. These professionals will design products with minimal carbon footprints, incorporate renewable materials, and optimize energy efficiency. With the rise of sustainable engineering practices, companies will need experts who can innovate while adhering to stringent environmental regulations.

2. Green Supply Chain Analyst

Green supply chain analysts will be essential for ensuring sustainability across the manufacturing value chain. They will evaluate suppliers, optimize logistics, and implement eco-friendly packaging solutions. The role also involves monitoring emissions and finding opportunities to reduce waste, aligning supply chain operations with global sustainability goals.

3. Energy Efficiency Specialist

As factories transition to renewable energy sources, energy efficiency specialists will become indispensable. They will oversee the integration of solar, wind, and other renewable energies into manufacturing plants. These specialists will also monitor energy consumption, identify inefficiencies, and develop strategies to achieve net-zero energy goals.

4. Carbon Footprint Auditor

Carbon footprint auditors will ensure that manufacturing operations comply with environmental standards. These professionals will assess carbon emissions, recommend mitigation strategies, and help companies adopt green certifications. This role will be key to maintaining transparency and meeting the growing demand for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance.

5. Circular Economy Specialist

A circular economy specialist will focus on extending the lifecycle of products by implementing reuse, remanufacturing, and recycling strategies. This role is central to reducing waste and maximizing resource utilization. Specialists in this area will collaborate with design and production teams to embed circular principles into the manufacturing process.

6. Renewable Energy Business Engineers

Renewable energy business engineers drive the integration of solar, wind, and bioenergy solutions into manufacturing. By assessing project feasibility and optimizing renewable energy systems, these professionals ensure sustainable energy use in industrial settings.

7. Project Finance Analyst

Project finance analysts secure funding for green manufacturing projects by evaluating financial viability, developing funding strategies, and managing budgets to ensure the financial sustainability of renewable energy and green infrastructure initiatives.

8. Land Acquisition Manager

Land acquisition managers identify and secure land for green manufacturing projects like solar and wind farms. Collaborating with landowners, government bodies, and environmental agencies, they ensure compliance with legal and environmental standards.

9. Power Electronics Specialist

Power electronics specialists develop systems that regulate energy use in electric motors, renewable energy, and storage solutions. Their focus is on improving energy efficiency and reducing waste in green manufacturing operations.

10. Project Specialist

Project specialists manage and coordinate green manufacturing projects from concept to execution. They oversee timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, ensuring projects align with sustainability goals and meet environmental regulations. Their role is crucial for ensuring the successful implementation of green initiatives in the manufacturing sector.

As India moves towards a greener future, the need for skilled professionals in sustainability-driven roles is on the rise. Mr. Kumar points out that empowering the workforce with the necessary expertise will be key to India’s success in sustainable industrial development.

Transforming Lives: NMDC Swarojgar Yojana Boosts Self-Employment in Kondagaon

Dec 26, 2024, Mumbai, India: In a ground-breaking initiative, NMDC Ltd., India’s largest iron ore producer, has joined hands with the Chhattisgarh government to launch the transformative NMDC Swarojgar Yojana. This innovative Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program is rewriting the socio-economic fabric of Kondagaon district, driving self-employment, financial empowerment, and community upliftment in one of India’s most remote & less privileged regions.

Nestled in the tribal heartland of Chhattisgarh, Kondagaon has long grappled with limited employment avenues. The NMDC Swarojgar Yojana is changing this narrative by equipping youth and women with the resources and skills they need to embark on entrepreneurial journeys. With a total budget of ₹1 crore, the program has disbursed ₹40 lakh in its first phase, supporting over 40 individuals in setting up businesses ranging from dairy farming and tea shops to mobile repair shops. Beneficiaries now earn sustainable monthly incomes ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000, creating ripples of economic vitality across the region.

“This initiative is a game-changer for Kondagaon,” said a district official overseeing the program. “It’s not just about financial aid; it’s about empowering individuals to believe in themselves and their potential. We’re already seeing incredible success stories emerge.”

Smt. Babita Sarkar, from Jugani Camp Village in Farasgaon block of Kondagaon, exemplifies the program’s life-changing impact. With ₹1 lakh in funding that she received from NMDC Swarojgar Yojana, she purchased two cows and started a dairy business. “Before this program, I didn’t know if I could even afford to send my daughters to school,” Babita shared, with tears in her eyes. “Now, I’m building a future not just for myself but for my family.” Before this initiative, Smt. Sarkar relied on daily wage labour, which offered limited income and job security. Today, she earns ₹20,000 to ₹25,000 monthly and support her daughters’ higher education, a dream that once seemed out of reach. Her journey symbolizes the program’s potential to lift families out of poverty and inspire hope.

Another remarkable beneficiary is Smt. Lakshmi Nisad, a street vendor from Baderajpur village. Armed with the support of the NMDC Swarojgar Yojana, she set up a thriving snacks and tea stall in the local market. In a bustling corner of Baderajpur market, Lakshmi serves steaming cups of tea to a steady stream of customers. The aroma of freshly fried pakoras wafts through the air as she greets patrons with a warm smile. With her entrepreneurial spirit and hard work, she now earns ₹800 to ₹1,200 per day. “I never thought I could run a business, let alone one that makes me proud,” Lakshmi remarked, smiling as she served tea to her regular customers. “The support I received from NMDC has changed my life and given me a sense of purpose.”

The success stories don’t end here. The ripple effects of the program are evident across Kondagaon. Shri Tuleswar Nevra, also from Baderajpur, started a grocery shop that now serves as a lifeline for the community. Earning ₹700 to ₹800 daily, his shop not only provides essential goods in the region, but also positions him as a vital contributor to the local economy. “NMDC’s initiative gave me the push I needed to take this step,” Nevra shared, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to build a sustainable livelihood.

Since its launch, the program has supported over 40 individuals becoming self-reliant and financially secure. The initiative operates through a revolving fund mechanism, ensuring that financial resources are reinvested to support future entrepreneurs. The district administration has implemented a transparent monitoring system, led by the CEO of Janpad Panchayat and officials from the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), to ensure that the program’s benefits reach those who need them most.

For NMDC, this initiative represents more than just a CSR activity; it is a mission to drive sustainable development and self-reliance. NMDC Swarojgar Yojana stands as a shining example of how targeted interventions can catalyse transformative change in rural areas. As more lives are touched and stories rewritten, the program is lighting a beacon of hope in rural India.

NMDC, through its diverse and impactful CSR initiatives, has been a catalyst for transforming lives in the remote regions where it operates. Programs such as the Balika Shiksha Yojana empower 40 tribal girls annually, enabling them to pursue professional nursing education and build promising careers in healthcare. The Aastha Gurukul program provides underprivileged children with holistic education, fostering academic growth and personal development. Additionally, the Saksham initiative ensures inclusivity by supporting children with special needs, addressing their unique requirements, and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives. These initiatives reflect NMDC’s commitment to social responsibility and community upliftment.

The Rise of Digital Twins: Connecting Physical and Virtual Worlds in Immersive Tech

Anant Roongta

By-Anant Roongta, Managing Director, Famous Studios and Co-Founder, Warehouse 47

 In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, one of the most fascinating concepts gaining traction is the notion of Digital Twins. These virtual replicas of physical objects, systems, or environments are being used to create detailed, real-time simulations of the real world, bridging the gap between the physical and virtual realms. From industrial applications to gaming and urban planning, digital twins are reshaping how we interact with and understand the world around us.

 What Are Digital Twins?
A Digital Twin is a virtual model or simulation of a physical entity, be it a product, process, or environment. These models mirror their real-world counterparts in terms of structure, behaviour, and interactions, continuously updated with real-time data. Think of a digital twin as a “living” digital counterpart — a dynamic model that evolves with the real-world object it represents.

 How Digital Twins Work: Real-Time Simulations
The power of digital twins is its ability to create a real-time simulation of a physical environment. This simulation can be fed with data from sensors embedded in the real-world object, providing an up-to-the-minute virtual replica of the physical entity’s current state. Whether it’s a building, a factory, or even a human body, the digital twin updates constantly, reflecting changes, wear, and tear, or any kind of variation in the real-world object it represents.

 For example, in smart buildings, sensors can monitor temperature, humidity, lighting, and energy consumption. This data is then transmitted to the digital twin of the building, which allows operators to see real-time metrics and make decisions to optimize energy use or prevent maintenance issues. In the entertainment industry, digital twins are being leveraged to create detailed and interactive virtual environments. Video games, VR experiences, and virtual production in filmmaking all benefit from the use of digital twins, allowing creators to simulate realistic worlds that feel immersive and authentic.

 Filmmakers can use a digital twin of a real-world location to generate virtual sets in virtual production—merging real-time visual effects with physical acting in a controlled environment. When I joined Famous Studios, I saw an opportunity to modernize and blend creativity with the latest technologies to meet the evolving demands of the industry. We also forged a significant partnership with Netflix, becoming their preferred post-production partner. This collaboration allowed us to scale our capabilities, particularly for long-format OTT content, and stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly digital landscape. To support this growth, we launched a state-of-the-art post-production facility designed to handle the complexities of modern content creation. We also introduced Visual Engineering, Motion Capture, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Virtual Production, and VFX. I also co-founded Warehouse 47, where we craft unique, one-of-a-kind brand activations using cutting-edge technology, compelling content creation, and innovative product launches, positioning us as a key player in transforming the tech content production industry.

 The Future of Digital Twins in Immersive Technology
As Internet of Things (IoT) devices proliferate and the capabilities of AI, machine learning, and data analytics continue to grow, the potential of digital twins will expand exponentially. Immersive technologies like VR and AR will evolve to create even more seamless interactions between the physical and virtual worlds. We can expect digital twins to become integral to industries ranging from automotive and energy to education and entertainment.

 In the near future, entire cities may be simulated in real-time, offering a fully interactive platform where urban planners, emergency services, and government bodies can monitor, predict, and react to any event. Healthcare may reach a point where digital twins of individual organs or even cells can be used to test the effects of drugs or surgical procedures before they are applied to real patients.

 Ultimately, digital twins represent the fusion of the physical and digital worlds, enabling us to see, understand, and interact with our environment in ways that were previously unimaginable. As technology advances, these digital simulations will become more sophisticated, offering new opportunities to solve complex problems, improve lives, and transform industries.

 The integration of digital twins and immersive technologies is revolutionizing how we perceive and interact with the world around us. By creating virtual models that mirror physical environments, these technologies are opening up new possibilities for industries to optimize performance, enhance decision-making, and improve efficiency. As we continue to bridge the gap between the physical and digital worlds, the potential applications of digital twins will only continue to grow, offering exciting opportunities for innovation, creativity, and progress across multiple sectors.

Microbial Solutions Leading the Way in Sustainable Crop Protection for the Future

Sustainable Agriculture is at the forefront of addressing the challenges that are associated with global food security. The utilization of microbial solutions is of critical importance in the enhancement of crop protection, the promotion of soil health, and the reduction of chemical inputs.

 When it comes to improving crop quality and production, the market is currently witnessing the introduction of a multitude of innovations and new procedures. Here are the leading companies following & businesses that are creating innovative efforts to revolutionize the agricultural sector.

 IPL Biologicals: IPL Biologicals stands out as a technology-driven company, that produces innovative biological solutions for crop preservation. The company has been on a wonderful journey of quality and innovation ever since it was established back in 1994. Their microbial solution-based products are ensured to be completely safe and achieve organic efficiency for crops. IPL Biologicals manufactures products of high quality using powerful strains that can grow in agroclimatic conditions. The biological product mix offered by IPL includes plant growth promoters, decomposers, biopesticides, bio fungicides, bioinsecticides, seed treatment products, and biofertilizers. It supplies solutions to farmers from all parts of India, where it has a marketing and distribution network covering all parts of the country.

Crystal Crop Protection Limited: With a legacy spanning 40 years, Crystal Group has remained a bulwark in Indian agriculture, dedicated to serving landowners’ crop protection needs. At the forefront of manufacturing, formulation, and marketing in the crop protection areas of insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and plant growth regulators/micronutrients. The group’s commitment to providing affordable but highly potent solutions has drawn wide recognition, and it has emerged as a partner for farmers in enhancing yields and adopting sustainable agricultural practices.

 IFFCO Kisan: IFFCO Kisan is a pioneering organization transforming agricultural practices through digital innovation and forward-thinking strategies. Their aim is to enhance the agri-business ecosystem with a sustainable and climate-resilient agri-commodities value chain. They have onboarded over millions of farms nationwide, covering 100+ crops and varieties. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and data insights, we empower farmers to revolutionize their agricultural practices, enhancing profitability and embracing climate-smart, demand-driven farming practices anchored in sustainability. Committed to direct empowerment, they strive to integrate the latest technology, fostering innovation at farmers’ fingertips for a sustainable and thriving farming community.

 Tropical Agrosystem: Tropical Agrosystem (India) Private Limited is a leader in the crop protection and plant nutrition industry in India. Tropical Agro has a focused portfolio that consists of the four segments of chemical, biological, and organic farming, which makes it an industrial leader in developing agricultural solutions that promote crop growth and the health of the soil, along with comprehensive protection for the crops in all seasons. The company was founded in 1969, presents itself with a USD 147 million turnover, and is part of ‘The Jhaver Group,’ an international group of companies with a century-old legacy. Thereby, Tropical Agro is in a constant quest for innovation, modernizing age-old farming practices, thus fulfilling its commitment to uplift the livelihood of the farming community. From seed treatment to post-harvest, their user-friendly, resource-efficient solutions empower farmers to fight against weeds, diseases, pests, and challenges to soil fertility.

 Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO): KRIBHCO is a cooperative society that has been instrumental in promoting sustainable agriculture through its range of bio-based products. Their microbial fertilizers and biopesticides are designed to improve soil fertility and protect crops from pests and diseases. KRIBHCO’s Bio-NPK and Azotobacter-based products are highly effective in enhancing nitrogen fixation and improving plant health. The organization also conducts farmer education programs to promote the adoption of eco-friendly agricultural practices, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainability.

Crack Academy to Guide Aspirants in Solan Mela

Solan, Himachal Pradesh; December 26, 2024: Following the resounding success in Patiala, Crack Academy, India’s leading Edtech platform for government exam preparation, is set to host the Sarkari Naukri Mela in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, on 26th December 2024. The event will be held at The Elite Minds, Solan, starting at 10 AM, aiming to provide government job aspirants with a platform to gain valuable insights into upcoming exams such as IAS and others.
The Mela will feature renowned experts from Delhi who will guide attendees with effective strategies, actionable tips, and proven techniques to enhance their preparation and boost their confidence.

Speaking about the event, Neeraj Kansal, Founder and CEO of Crack Academy, said, “With a vision of empowering government job aspirants, we are excited to bring the Sarkari Naukri Mela to Solan. This initiative is our endeavor to bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement for government job seekers. With expert mentorship and focused guidance, we want to empower students with the clarity and tools they need to excel in their journey.

Registrations for the Sarkari Naukri Mela are now open on a first-come, first-serve basis. Students, graduates, and professionals aspiring for government careers are encouraged to participate and make the most of this knowledge-rich experience. The event promises to be a step forward in turning career dreams into reality.

Lilavati Hospital Uplifts Children’s Spirits with a Heartwarming Festive Celebration

Mumbai: Christmas is a time to come together, extending love, care, and warmth to everyone. Carrying forward its legacy of giving back to society, Lilavati Hospital remains committed to rolling out life-changing initiatives, for the happiness of the underprivileged. By truly embodying the festive spirit of togetherness and goodwill, the Hospital organized a delightful Christmas celebration for children from Rural Ashram schools and those who have undergone cochlear implant surgeries. Over 300 children from Rural Ashram schools and 100 cochlear implant recipients, OPD, and IPD patients were part of the joyous occasion filled with fun activities, dance, exciting gifts, and scrumptious snacks. Present on the occasion were the board of trustees along with the management team who gave their blessings to the children and wished them a brighter future filled with hope and positivity.

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The Hospital hosted a grand Christmas celebration for children with activities such as a magic show, dancing, and a photography session. Santa Claus made a special appearance, spreading cheer and creating unforgettable memories for the children.

Over 300 children from Rural Ashram schools based in the Palghar district of Maharashtra became the heart of the celebration as they traveled to Mumbai to Lilavati Hospital. For many, the journey to the bustling city and its towering buildings was a mix of excitement and nervousness. However, the engaging activities organized at the hospital created a warm and welcoming environment, helping the children unwind. Their faces lit up with joy as they embraced the experience, making the celebration truly memorable for everyone involved.

Shri. Rajiv Mehta, Permanent Trustee of Lilavati Hospital said, “The Christmas celebration is not just about the festivities but aims to uplift marginalized sections of society. By combining healthcare excellence with community-based campaigns and initiatives, the hospital is out and out to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals.”

Shri. Prashant Mehta, Permanent Trustee, Lilavati Hospital underscored, “This Christmas celebration will foster a sense of community and joy among these children. At Lilavati Hospital, we go beyond healthcare to create a holistic environment where every child feels supported, loved, and empowered. The celebrations were held under the thoughtful guidance of Smt. Charu Mehta, Founder and Permanent Trustee, whose leadership and vision. We hope to build confidence in children, nurture their dreams, and equip them to face life’s challenges with courage.”

“This event is a reminder that every child deserves an equal chance to thrive, and we are honored to play a part in making that a reality. Such initiatives are designed to lay a strong foundation for a brighter and inclusive future for everyone. We strive further to launch crucial path-breaking initiatives for improving the quality of life of those in need,” highlighted Dr Niraj Uttamani, Chief Operating Officer at Lilavati Hospital & Research Centre, Bandra.

“We were elated to welcome children from Rural Ashram schools who visited Mumbai for the very first time. The opportunity to host them at Lilavati Hospital allowed us to create an environment where they felt comfortable and cherished. It was a privilege to be a part of their journey and to give them an experience that brought so much positivity and warmth into their lives,” concluded Shri. Mohit Mathur, Permanent Trustee, Lilavati Hospital