20th December 2024  Delhi, India  SBI General Insurance, one of India’s leading General Insurance companies, has successfully implemented the BUSINESSNEXT platform, a specialized Insurance Customer Relationship and Experience Management (CRM) solution, marking a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey.

This strategic launch empowers SBIG employees to deliver a superior and seamless insurance experience to its customers across India. The collaboration with BUSINESSNEXT aims to revolutionize customer journeys and boost operational efficiency on a large scale.

Key Highlights of BUSINESSNEXT Implementation:

The BUSINESSNEXT platform is seamlessly integrated with 20 different systems to ensure a unified and efficient operational workflow. There are Advanced Lead and Campaign Management features for automatic prioritization of leads and rating based on campaign sources for ensuring targeted and effective marketing efforts. Contact Centre (CC) and Learning Management System (LMS) teams are added to the complaints workflow, ensuring prompt and efficient resolution of customer issues. There are significant enhancements for Net Promoter Score (NPS) tracking, specifically tailored for servicing and renewals, ensuring a continuous improvement in customer satisfaction. The platform enables user groups like branch operations and underwriters to operate seamlessly across various channels. Straight Through Processes (STP) have been built-in via an API layer for higher First Contact Resolutions (FCR) ensuring accurate and quick processing. It also provides pre-issuance support for digital sales, enhancing the customer acquisition process.

The BUSINESSNEXT platform underscores the company’s commitment to adopting state-of-the-art technology solutions that enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.

“We are excited to integrate the BUSINESSNEXT platform into our operations,” said Pankaj Pandey, Chief Information Officer, SBI General Insurance. “This will not only strengthen our service delivery but also ensure that we continue to meet and exceed the evolving needs of our customers.”

Sushil Tyagi, Executive Director, BUSINESSNEXT, said, “Our partnership with SBI General Insurance highlights the transformative potential of purpose-built CRM solutions in the insurance sector. This deployment allows SBIG to deliver personalized experiences at scale while adapting to evolving market dynamics.”

20th December 2024  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India  Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute – Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts – the leading institution in Chennai, renowned for its commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry, claimed the overall championship at the Budding Chef Challenge 2024. The landmark event, India’s first ‘Farm to Table Culinary’ competition, was organized by ACCASI at Hosur, Tamil Nadu, on the 27th and 28th of November, 2024. The two-day National competition featured participation of over 100 students from across 12 colleges, competing in seven diverse categories. The event showcased exceptional skills in Culinary Art, Food Preparation, Presentation, and Service, celebrating the immense talent of young chefs from across the country.

Students from Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute, Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts, Chennai, successfully emerged as the undisputed champions, securing an impressive 3,000 points and earning 40 medals: 7 Gold, 13 Silver, 20 Bronze, and 2 Merit Certificates. Nitheesh Kumar T, Sahana K, Shazia R, Achu D, Hemapriya V, Joshwa R, Jothi K, Lingeshwaran D, Mohammed Meeran P, Nithish Kumar A V, Nithish L, Nivetha L, Prasanna Santhana Kumar M, Praveen Durai S, Rishikesavan G, Santhana Krishnan P, Tharun S, Varsha D and Yuvashree S stellar performances were particularly noteworthy in categories such as “Live Cake Decoration, Live Cooking, Live Pasta Cooking Challenge, Vegetable & Fruit Carving, and the Mystery Basket Challenge.”

Prof. Chef M. Prabu, Joint Registrar (H&S-Ph-II) and Dean / Head of the Department said, “The remarkable achievement was possible with right planning to train the students spending number of days in Kitchen / Bakery Labs, with support of the dedicated trainers, with the spirt of good team work. This goal was achieved only with the contribution of Dr. MGR University.”

Official Statement from the President of the University
Commenting on this outstanding achievement, Honourable President Er. ACS Arunkumar, of Dr. M.G.R Educational and Research Institute added, “We are incredibly proud of our students for their exceptional performance at the Budding Chef Challenge 2024. Competitions like these are vital to the growth of aspiring chefs, testing their technical skills, critical thinking, resilience, and adaptability. These platforms provide invaluable opportunities for practical, hands-on learning, while fostering creativity and a spirit of excellence. We commend ACCASI for organizing this pioneering event and extend our heartfelt congratulations to our 19 young chefs, who showcased exemplary professionalism and skill, bringing immense pride to our university and department.”

About Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute, Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts With a legacy spanning over 37 years, Dr. MGR Educational And Research Institute, Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts has been a cornerstone of hospitality education in Chennai. The University is dedicated to producing industry-ready professionals equipped to excel in the dynamic and competitive hospitality sector.

Event Jury and Accolades
The event was judged by a distinguished panel of experts from the Culinary and Hospitality industries, whose insights added significant value to the competition.

For more information about Dr. M.G.R Educational And Research Institute, Department of Hotel Management & Culinary Arts, visit our website at www.drmgrihmindia.com.

This remarkable victory underscores the institution’s commitment to shaping the future of the Culinary and Hhospitality industries.

20th December 2024  Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India  The timeless allure of Jodhpur served as the perfect backdrop for an artistic magnificence as Stonex showcased an extraordinary marble art installation during the prestigious Umaid Bhawan Palace Cup Tournament, a cornerstone of the celebrated 25th Jodhpur Polo Season.

This exclusive creation, seamlessly blending heritage and artistry, brought an unparalleled elegance to the season’s grandeur. Set against the opulent backdrop of the iconic Umaid Bhawan Palace, the installation captured the essence of tradition and innovation. Its intricate design and exceptional craftsmanship resonated deeply with the regal ambiance, symbolizing the enduring legacy of polo and the cultural richness of Jodhpur.

Gracing the event was the esteemed HH Maharaja Gaj Singhji of Jodhpur, whose patronage has been instrumental in fostering the spirit of polo and celebrating the city’s artistic heritage.

The 25th Jodhpur Polo Season, renowned as a pinnacle in India’s polo calendar, has attracted global attention with its seamless blend of sport, tradition, and luxury. Among the highlights was the coveted Hermes Cup, alongside other notable names that have lent their prestige to the season, further elevating its stature on the international stage.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sushant Pathak, CMO, Stonex India, remarked, “At Stonex, our creations transcend art, serving as a bridge between history and modernity. The Umaid Bhawan Palace Cup and the grandeur of the Jodhpur Polo Season embody the ideals we hold dear—timeless elegance, craftsmanship, and cultural legacy. We are deeply honored to have been part of this iconic celebration and to contribute to its enduring narrative.”

The season stands as a testament to Jodhpur’s unparalleled legacy as India’s polo capital, with Stonex’s masterpiece underscoring its commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and creativity, perfectly aligning with the timeless grandeur of this historic event.

20th December 2024  Delhi, India  When creating content, preparedness, and flexibility are key, as is a versatile wireless audio system that helps you capture sound easily and quickly without sacrificing audio quality. For creators and videographers, Sennheiser launched Profile Wireless, a two-channel, 2.4 GHz wireless microphone system that connects to mobile phones, cameras, or computers, and can be used as a clip-on mic, handheld mic, or table-top microphone – whatever the situation demands.

Profile Wireless includes everything for capturing high-quality audio with unprecedented ease of use. It has a multifunctional charging bar that stores and charges the system’s key components and doubles as a handheld or desktop mic. The charging bar safely holds a two-channel mini-receiver with an OLED touch display, two pre-paired clip-on microphones that automatically connect to the receiver, magnetic clips for attaching the mics to delicate clothing, and adaptors for connecting the receiver to mobile phones or a camera cold shoe mount.

Speaking about the products, Mr. Vipin Pungalia, Country Manager & Director- Sales Pro Audio at Sennheiser India said, “In today’s era of digital media, there are millions of content creators and active content consumers in India. Sennheiser’s versatile multi-tool is designed to empower creators of all levels, simplifying their workflow and elevating their audio quality to new heights. It was important to us that Profile Wireless can master a diverse set of recording requirements while being as compact and portable as possible. The range of use cases for Profile Wireless is impressive.”

Reliability where you most need it

With an impressive wireless range of up to 245 meters, this system ensures clear audio even over long distances. Each clip-on wireless microphone boasts 16GB of onboard memory, capable of recording up to 30 hours of audio at 24-bit / 48kHz resolution. To safeguard against audio loss, the Profile Wireless features a Backup Recording Mode that automatically activates internal recording if the wireless signal weakens. Additionally, the Safety Channel Mode records backup audio at a lower volume to prevent clipping. By recording simultaneously at two different audio levels, the Profile Wireless not only minimizes the risk of clipped audio but also maximizes the dynamic range of the capsule, ensuring superior sound quality for every shoot.

Profile Wireless is a unique compact 2.4 GHz wireless system featuring an integrated handheld option with an impressive 15+ hours of runtime. Unlike other systems, Profile Wireless allows the use of microphones even while recharging. Designed with creators in mind, it boasts usability features such as an auto-rotating receiver display, no app requirement, and diverse mounting options. Unique to Sennheiser, the thread mounts on the components ensure smooth workflows in content creation, making Profile Wireless the ultimate choice for seamless and efficient audio recording.

20th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India Antara Senior Care, an integrated eco-system provider for lifestyle and lifecare solutions for seniors, and a part of the $4 bn Max Group, is proud to announce a strategic collaboration with Dr. Lal PathLabs, one of India’s most trusted names in diagnostic services. Through this partnership, the two organizations will jointly offer diagnostic services to senior customers, strengthening their commitment to providing accessible, accurate, and timely healthcare solutions across the country.

The partnership will also facilitate greater access to cutting-edge diagnostic technology, with Dr. Lal PathLabs’s state-of-the-art laboratories ensuring accurate test results and fast turnaround times. Antara’s wide network of healthcare professionals and service points will help streamline the sample collection process, ensuring convenience and efficiency for users. With special diagnostic packages designed to address various specific needs of seniors, the collaboration will be a step closer to ensuring timely and early diagnosis and discovery in case of any health challenges. This curated geriatric care package – Varishtha Aarogya Vardaan — includes a comprehensive range of essential blood tests specifically curated for seniors. These tests are designed to address critical health parameters and ensure a thorough assessment of overall wellbeing.

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Ishaan Khanna, CEO, Antara Assisted Care Services, said, “We are very happy to partner with Dr. Lal PathLabs to bring high-quality diagnostic services closer to our seniors. This collaboration will enhance our ability to provide better geriatric care and ensure seamless experience for our elderly customers, from sample collection to result delivery.”

Mr. Shankha Banerjee, CEO, Dr. Lal PathLabs, expressed, “Our partnership with Antara is an important step forward in our mission to improve healthcare services for elderly patients. By combining Antara’s extensive network in senior care and our expertise in testing, we will ensure that seniors receive accurate and timely results, which are critical for effective healthcare management, particularly in geriatric care.”

With this collaboration, both Antara Senior Care and Dr. Lal PathLabs are reaffirming their commitment to setting new standards in healthcare services and improving the overall health outcomes for millions of patients across India.

20th December 2024 Bengaluru, Karnataka, India Sachit Shastri, a DP1 student from Oakridge International School Bengaluru represented the school at the prestigious Nord Anglia Education (NAE) STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths) Week at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Along with 65 peers from NAE schools worldwide, Sachit had the opportunity to engage with MIT professors, graduate, and undergraduate students in hands-on research activities.

During his time at MIT, Sachit collaborated with a diverse group of students on an innovative camera mount project designed for studying the northern lights in extreme and cold environments. The project provided a unique platform for Sachit to learn from some of the brightest minds in STEAM.

Reflecting on his experience, Sachit shared, “The group project, in particular, was an incredible experience where I worked with students from around the world. We designed a camera mount that could survive in harsh conditions-a truly exciting challenge.” Sachit returned to Oakridge with invaluable learning experiences, which he eagerly shared with fellow students during Science Week at the school.

The MIT-Nord Anglia STEAM Programme enables students to experience a university-inspired approach to learn STEAM subjects. Students learn from MIT researchers, scientists and experts at the forefront of these fields, as well as taking a hands-on approach to problem solving through

20th December 2024  Goa, India  Lone Wolf, the trailblazing premium brand by Onkara Beverages and Hospitality, proudly steps into the spotlight as the pouring partner for the prestigious Serendipity Arts Festival 2024. Held in the vibrant city of Panjim, Goa, from December 15 to December 22. This iconic festival is a melting pot of artistic brilliance, celebrated for its interdisciplinary showcase of visual, performing, and culinary arts that captivate audiences from across the globe.

This collaboration solidifies Lone Wolf as a champion of cultural dialogue and a proud patron of the arts. Serendipity Arts Festival, one of South Asia’s largest and most influential cultural events, provides the perfect platform for Lone Wolf to amplify its mission of fostering creativity, building community, and elevating the artistic experience.

With three pouring points – Nagali Hills, Accounts Building, and GMC – Lone Wolf is at the epicenter of the festival’s energy. These key locations serve as gathering spots for art lovers, performers, and culinary enthusiasts to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the fusion of art, food, and conversation over Lone Wolf’s signature brews.

“Being a part of the Serendipity Arts Festival is more than just a partnership for us,” said Atul Kumar Singh, Co-founder of Lone Wolf. “It’s a declaration of our commitment to the arts and to creating moments where bold flavors and groundbreaking creativity intersect. We’re proud to support an event that so deeply resonates with our values of innovation and community.”

As the festival transforms Panjim into a thriving cultural haven, Lone Wolf adds its own unique flavor to the experience, elevating the art of connection. From live performances to curated exhibitions, Serendipity Arts Festival stands as a testament to the power of the arts, and Lone Wolf is proud to be an integral part of this journey.

This December, come and join Lone Wolf at Nagali Hills, Accounts Building, and GMC, and raise a toast to a week of creativity, culture, and community. Lone Wolf as a brand aims to inspire conversations, spark ideas, and shape the future of arts and culture in India.

Chandigarh, 20th December 2024  Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India, today announced the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with OGQ- Foundation for Promotion of Sports and Games (FPSG) and Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS) under its Corporate Social Responsibility mandate. The two partnerships aim to support the present generation of Indian athletes competing at the highest level of their sport and nurture the next generation of young Indian athletes. With these partnerships, Axis Bank is supporting the Sports theme under CSR for the first time, underscoring its commitment to contributing to the development of the sports ecosystem in India.

The Bank’s partnership with OGQ-FPSG Program will support 150 athletes and para-athletes over four years across 10 individual Olympic sports including Archery, Badminton, Boxing, Shooting, Wrestling, Athletics, Swimming, Table Tennis, Weightlifting, Squash and 8 Paralympic Sports Athletics, Archery, Badminton, Shooting, Powerlifting, Table Tennis, Canoe, Blind Judo, ensuring they have access to world-class equipment, expert coaching, nutritional guidance, mental conditioning, and injury rehabilitation programs, to be able to bring laurels for the country at the Olympics and other international sporting events.

In collaboration with IIS, the Bank is launching the Axis Bank Judo Development Program in the state of Manipur which is considered to be the hot-bed of Judo talent in India. Over three years, the Program aims to support the grassroots development of young Judokas from the State, as well as from other parts of North-eastern India, improving the young athletes’ access to better coaching and training facilities, and creating a cohort of world-class judo talent for the region and the country. The Program will support 90 athletes overall, including 50 young judokas from Manipur who will receive grassroots coaching and training in Manipur, and 40 female judokas from across India who will receive a full scholarship to study and train at the state-of-the-art IIS campus in Vijayanagar, Karnataka.

Speaking at the event, Vijay Mulbagal, Group Executive for Strategic Programs & Sustainability – Axis Bank, said, “Axis Bank is pleased to partner with the OGQ Program and the Inspire Institute of Sport towards supporting the vibrant sports eco-system in India. Through our partnerships for these two world-class programs, we intend to help discover and nurture the inherent sporting talent that exists in the country so they can not only succeed at the highest levels in their sporting disciplines but also grow into responsible, confident individuals.”

Viren Rasquinha, MD & CEO, OGQ- Foundation for Promotion of Sports and Games commented, “We are very happy that Axis Bank is joining the family of OGQ supporters, helping Indian athletes win Olympic and Paralympic Gold medals. Axis Bank’s commitment to OGQ strengthens our efforts as we work in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and National Sports Federations (NSFs) to strive for sporting excellence as a Nation.”

Manisha Malhotra, President, Inspire Institute of Sport said, “The support of corporate India is vital to helping the Indian sporting ecosystem harness its true potential, and we are really glad to have Axis Bank joining our growing list of donors at IIS. We have a talented young bunch of Judokas at Vijayanagar and in Manipur, and Axis Bank’s support of our Judo Programme will go a long way in helping them get the right exposure and training needed to compete at the highest level.”

Mumbai,20th December 2024  : Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant and Hon’ble Minister for Tourism; Information Technology Electronics & Communications; Printing & Stationery, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, launched a series of transformative digital and tourism initiatives today at a ceremony held at Mantralaya, Porvorim. These initiatives, by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications and the Department of Tourism, mark a significant step towards enhancing digital infrastructure and strengthening Goa’s position as a progressive tourism destination.

The newly launched initiatives include the rollout of Free Public WiFi Hotspots at 75 locations, ensuring seamless digital connectivity for residents across the state. Additionally, the installation of 11 4G BSNL towers will significantly enhance mobile network coverage, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening communication infrastructure. The introduction of the Let’s Goa platform offers an innovative and user-friendly solution for tourists to explore Goa effortlessly. Furthermore, the launch of One Map Goa GIS (Geographic Information System) portal, will facilitate efficient spatial planning, infrastructure development, and governance in the state.

The launch was attended by esteem dignitaries including Chief Secretary, Dr. V Candavelou, IAS; Director of Tourism and Managing Director of GTDC Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS; Shri Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director for IT; Officer on Special Duty for Minister (IT) Neville Noronha, Officer on Special Duty for Minister (Tourism) Shri Shawn Mendes; Smt. Revati Kumar, MD of Goa Electronic Limited (GEL); Shri Sanjay Kumar Chaudhari Deputy Director General, Department of Telecom; Shri L. B. Lal General Manager of BSNL along with senior officials and dignitaries.

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant emphasized the importance of these initiatives in driving digital inclusion, promoting smart governance, and creating a modern tourism ecosystem. He stated, “Guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Digital India vision, Goa is moving confidently into the future with Digital Goa. With this launch, Goa is taking a significant step forward in the Digital Kranti. This bold initiative is about leveraging technology to empower every citizen and unlock new opportunities. From free WiFi hotspots, particularly benefiting students, and 4G towers ensuring seamless connectivity across the state, to the GIS Portal transforming governance and the Let’s Goa platform boosting tourism and local businesses, we are building a digitally inclusive and innovative Goa.”

Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte while outlining the significance of the four initiatives, stated, “We are delivering on our promises to the people of Goa by empowering every Goan through the transformative potential of connectivity, innovation, and opportunity. To achieve Atmanirbhar Bharat, digitalization and connectivity, driven by WiFi hotspots and 4G towers, play a crucial role in bridging gaps and fostering progress. The GIS Portal represents a revolutionary leap toward e-Governance, providing seamless access to geospatial data and enhancing transparency and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Let’s Goa tourism experience platform serves as a comprehensive guide to Goa’s services, integrating tourism, technology, and local businesses. Together, these initiatives are shaping a future where every Goan can thrive, setting benchmarks for growth, inclusivity, and sustainability that resonate across India.”

Director Tourism while talking about the Let’s Goa portal highlighted, Lets Goa is more than is a transformative leap for Goa’s tourism industry. Connecting local service providers, tourists, and officials, it promotes innovation, growth, and excellence. With 100+ hotels, 50+ activity providers, and GTDC residencies onboard, the platform streamlines bookings, inventory management, and showcases Goa’s heritage and culture. Let’s Goa empowers local businesses while advancing wellness, adventure, and hinterland tourism under visionary leadership.

The launch of these initiatives marks a milestone in Goa’s journey towards becoming a digitally connected, tourism-driven state, further strengthening its appeal as a destination that seamlessly blends tradition with technology.

By Quasar Elizundia, Expert Research Strategist – Pepperstone

One year into Javier Milei’s administration, the Argentine economy presents a complex outlook, marked by significant progress on some fronts but also by the persistence of structural challenges that require continuous attention. The recent release of data by INDEC provides a nuanced view of the current situation.

The third quarter of 2024 showed a seasonally adjusted GDP growth of 3.9% compared to the previous quarter, driven mainly by fixed capital investment (with a seasonally adjusted increase of 12%) and a strong performance in real exports, which saw a remarkable 20.1% year-on-year increase. This surge in exports, with a 31.6% rise in November, reaching USD 6.479 billion, reflects the competitiveness of key sectors such as agriculture, agribusiness, and manufactured goods.

The robust growth in exports is an encouraging sign of the country’s productive capacity and its integration into international markets. This export dynamism, along with a 4.3% contraction in imports, has resulted in a trade surplus of USD 1.234 billion in November, reversing last year’s deficit and marking the twelfth consecutive month of a positive trade balance. This improvement in the trade balance is crucial for strengthening the country’s reserves and stabilizing the economy.

However, the 2.1% year-on-year contraction in GDP highlights the challenges that persist in the real economy. Sectors such as construction and wholesale and retail trade experienced significant declines of 14.9% and 6.1%, respectively, indicating weakness in domestic demand, partly attributable to the reduction in public spending. Private consumption, while showing a seasonally adjusted increase of 4.6%, also contracted 3.2% year-on-year. Gross fixed capital formation, critical for long-term growth, also fell 16.8% year-on-year, with sharp declines in construction and machinery and equipment. While the quarterly rebound is positive, the year-on-year GDP decline and weak investment suggest that the path to sustained recovery remains challenging.

On the labor front, the unemployment rate stood at 6.9% in the third quarter, its lowest level since Q4 2023, thanks to the strong performance of the agricultural sector. However, the 11.4% underemployment rate raises questions about job quality and the persistence of social difficulties. While the reduction in unemployment is progress, the high underemployment rate calls for policies that promote the creation of formal and quality employment.

The Milei administration faces the challenge of balancing necessary structural reforms with promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth. While the optimism of international investors and the improvement in some indicators are positive signs, the sustainability of this progress will depend on the government’s ability to address macroeconomic imbalances, strengthen trade ties, and generate growth that benefits all sectors of society. Argentina’s economic future depends on the government’s ability to transform recent progress into a solid foundation for sustained and equitable growth.”

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