Honeywell to Develop Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Agent Powered by Qualcomm
INDIA, September 24, 2024 – Honeywell (Nasdaq: HON) today announced that it is working to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled Multi-Modal Intelligent Agent for Honeywell mobile devices powered by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. The agent will allow workers and customers in the distribution center and retail industries to interact naturally with their handheld devices through voice, pictures, and barcodes.
This AI-powered solution is built to function as a digital resource for the modern labor force and designed to enable today’s stretched workforce to quickly tap into answers and outcomes, helping result in time savings, greater accuracy, and interactive results. The design and development of the Multi-Modal Intelligent Agent also supports Honeywell’s alignment of its portfolio to three compelling megatrends, including automation.
Workers will be able to enter data into the technology and then receive practical answers to queries like, “Do we have the gluten-free variant of this product in stock?” or “Where can I find this particular item in the store?” Depending on the question, users will receive responses in the form of an image, video, spoken response, text answer, or a combination of several modalities. This functionality is designed to enable workers to more efficiently complete their work while simultaneously navigating other ongoing tasks, such as assisting customers in a retail setting or performing multi-step workflows in a distribution center. The solution will be available to users through a software development kit that can integrate with an organization’s existing applications and systems.
“Utilizing our strengths in on-device generative AI, high-performance and low power computing, this collaboration with Honeywell underscores our commitment to pioneering innovative solutions that will propel the expansion of the connected intelligent edge,” said Nakul Duggal, group general manager, of automotive, industrial and embedded IoT, and cloud computing, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “Honeywell’s new Multi-Modal Intelligent Agent represents a significant step forward in utilizing advanced edge AI to streamline operations and elevate customer interactions across industries. This initiative enables us to drive digital transformation, enhancing how businesses interact with their environments through intelligent and responsive technology.”
“By pairing Honeywell’s easy-to-use mobile devices and intelligent software with Qualcomm Technologies’ industry-leading edge AI processors, Honeywell is creating solutions to make workers’ jobs easier while also helping businesses produce the stellar experience they want for their customers,” said Jason Urso, Honeywell Industrial Automation chief technology officer. “With AI, Honeywell is amplifying what’s possible for businesses with mobile workers today.”
The Multi-Modal Intelligent Agent is expected to be available in early 2025. To learn more about how Honeywell is leveraging AI across key industries, visit: https://automation.honeywell.com/us/en/solutions/productivity.
Meghalaya’s organic farming initiatives taking pace
Meghalaya, renowned for its verdant landscapes and rich biodiversity, is emerging as a key hub for organic farming in India. The state has embarked on various initiatives aimed at transforming agricultural practices and promoting sustainable livelihoods for its farmers. The state has been diligently implementing various schemes initiated by both the Central and State Governments to encourage the conversion of agricultural land into certified organic holdings. Notable among these initiatives is the Meghalaya Organic Value Chain Development for Northeastern Region (MOVCDNER) scheme, the State Organic Mission which has the ambitious objective of converting and sustaining 1 lakh hectares of land into certified organic. At present, 24,000 hectares of land have achieved organic certification, while an additional 8,000 hectares are in the conversion phase.
To further support and consolidate these efforts, the Cabinet approved the Meghalaya State Organic and Natural Farming policy on 11th January 2023. The policy outlines key objectives, including promoting organic farming as a sustainable income-generating activity for farmers, facilitating capacity building, investment, and technology development, and increasing farmers’ income through training, value addition, and market linkage.
To drive the effective implementation of this policy, the Meghalaya Natural and Organic Society for Livelihood and Innovation in Agriculture (MEGNOLIA) was established on June 1, 2023. Registered under the Societies Registration Act, MEGNOLIA functions as the apex body under the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Government of Meghalaya responsible for overseeing, coordinating, and executing the Organic and Natural Farming Policy in Meghalaya. MEGNOLIA’s primary goals include managing the implementation of the policy, supporting Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) to professionalize organic production and marketing, promoting agro-industrial growth rooted in ecological sustainability, facilitating technology transfer, and fostering knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
Certification plays a critical role in organic farming. In Meghalaya, certification bodies ensure that farming practices adhere to the rigorous standards set by national and international organizations. Meghalaya now has its own APEDA-certified organic certification agency, the Meghalaya State Organic Certification Body, under the Planning Department. This makes it only the second such agency in the Northeast, following the Sikkim State Organic Certification Agency. With this development, the organic certification process for our farmers becomes more streamlined, as they no longer need to rely on agencies primarily based in Western and Southern India.
A major milestone in advancing Meghalaya’s organic farming sector was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between MEGNOLIA and the National Cooperatives of Organic Limited (NCOL) on September 20, 2024 in the World Food India 2024. This partnership seeks to improve the procurement, marketing, and sale of organic products from Meghalaya. As part of the MOU, MEGNOLIA will link certified organic farmers with NCOL, help them obtain procurement approvals, and cover the costs of organic certification. In turn, NCOL will purchase organic products from these farmers, manage logistics, and ensure direct compensation to both farmers and service providers. This collaboration marks a significant step toward establishing a sustainable and profitable organic farming model in Meghalaya, improving farmer livelihoods while fostering environmental stewardship.
The government’s initiatives, embodied in the organic farming policy and led by MEGNOLIA, signal a bright future for organic agriculture in Meghalaya. Strategic partnerships, such as the one with NCOL, position the state to meet the growing demand for organic produce and champion sustainable farming practices that benefit both farmers and the environment.
How Sustainable Technologies Are Transforming Commercial Office Elements and Building Practices
Mr Sunil Bedi, Founder, JMD Group
The drive towards sustainability has become a defining characteristic of modern architecture and commercial building practices. As environmental concerns take center stage, businesses and developers are increasingly adopting sustainable technologies that not only reduce their carbon footprint but also enhance efficiency and long-term cost savings. This transformation is reshaping the way commercial spaces are designed, constructed, and maintained.
The Rise of Sustainable Building Practices
Sustainable building practices involve the integration of eco-friendly technologies and materials into the construction and operation of commercial buildings. These practices are guided by principles such as energy efficiency, resource conservation, and minimal environmental impact. The result is a new generation of office buildings that are not only environmentally responsible but also healthier and more productive for occupants.
Key Sustainable Technologies in Commercial Spaces
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Energy-Efficient Lighting and HVAC Systems: One of the most significant areas of transformation is in lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Modern commercial buildings are increasingly incorporating LED lighting, which consumes significantly less energy and has a longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting. In addition, smart HVAC systems use sensors and automation to optimize temperature and airflow, reducing energy consumption and enhancing comfort.
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Green Building Materials: The choice of materials plays a critical role in sustainable construction. Materials like reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints are becoming standard in green building projects. These materials not only reduce the environmental impact but also contribute to better indoor air quality and occupant health.
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Water Conservation Technologies: Water efficiency is another crucial aspect of sustainable office buildings. Technologies such as low-flow fixtures, water recycling systems, and rainwater harvesting are helping commercial spaces reduce their water consumption. These innovations are essential in areas where water scarcity is a growing concern and contribute to the overall sustainability of the building.
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Renewable Energy Integration: The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, is becoming increasingly common in commercial buildings. These technologies enable offices to generate their own clean energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In some cases, buildings can even produce surplus energy that can be fed back into the grid.
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Smart Building Management Systems: The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) has given birth to smart building management systems that allow for real-time monitoring and control of energy usage, lighting, security, and more. These systems provide valuable data that can be used to optimize building operations, reduce waste, and improve overall efficiency.
The Impact on Office Design and Employee Well-Being
Sustainable technologies are not just about reducing environmental impact—they also enhance the quality of the work environment. Natural light, improved air quality, and comfortable temperatures contribute to a healthier and more productive workspace. Studies have shown that employees in green buildings report higher levels of satisfaction, well-being, and productivity, leading to better overall business performance.
Furthermore, the adoption of sustainable technologies aligns with the growing demand for corporate social responsibility. Companies that prioritize sustainability can enhance their brand image, attract top talent, and meet the expectations of environmentally conscious clients and investors.
Conclusion
The integration of sustainable technologies into commercial office elements and building practices is no longer a trend—it’s a necessity. As businesses and developers recognize the long-term benefits of sustainability, we can expect to see even greater innovations in this field. From energy efficiency to smart building management, these technologies are transforming the commercial real estate landscape, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future. The commitment to sustainability is not just about protecting the environment; it’s about creating spaces that foster well-being, efficiency, and success.
2024 Study: States Where Building a Home Beats Buying
State | House Sale Price | Land price (per acre) | Architectural and Design Fees | Construction Costs | Utilities Hookup | FInal Score |
Hawaii | $856,327 | 24,170 | 25000 | 450 | $600 | 50.0 |
California | $782,695 | 15,445 | 35000 | 300 | $625 | 44.2 |
Massachusetts | $609,415 | 48,830 | 22000 | 275 | $625 | 37.3 |
Washington | $588,986 | 21467 | 19000 | 200 | $360 | 31.8 |
New Jersey | $508,430 | 17,739 | 19000 | 240 | $575 | 31.4 |
New York | $458,072 | 5187 | 35000 | 275 | $625 | 30.5 |
Colorado | $548,602 | 23,781 | 16000 | 200 | $360 | 30.2 |
Rhode Island | $449,550 | 29621 | 13500 | 215 | $575 | 28.8 |
New Hampshire | $463,091 | 17,259 | 12000 | 200 | $575 | 28.7 |
Utah | $518,241 | 17542 | 12000 | 155 | $360 | 27.9 |
Ganga Realty’s ‘Anantam’, Gurugram’s Tallest Residential Tower, Receives Overwhelming Response During EOI Phase
Ganga Realty, a prominent real estate developer based in Gurugram, has recently unveiled ‘Anantam’, the tallest residential tower in the city, located in Sector 85. The project’s Tower A, launched under an exclusive Expression of Interest (EOI) phase, received an extraordinary response from homebuyers in a remarkably short period. Ganga Realty is offering a limited-time Expression of Interest (EOI) with a special inaugural rate. The first 50 buyers can secure units at Rs 16,500 per sq ft, providing significant savings compared to the introductory price of Rs 17,500 per sq ft. With an EOI deposit of ₹10 lakhs, buyers can enjoy benefits worth over ₹25 lakhs. This exclusive opportunity is available for a short period and will be ending on October 11th. Additionally, the company is extending further benefits by waiving the first transfer fee, provided buyers complete 30% of the total payment booking.
On September 16th, Ganga Realty held a Bhumi Pujan at the Anantam site to seek divine blessings and helm the project on an auspicious note.
Apart from encompassing the tallest residential towers in the development landscape of Gurugram and Delhi, boasting G+59 floors, Anantam is also overloaded with voguish amenities such as a 1 lakh sq ft state-of-the-art Clubhouse, along with separate Indoor & Outdoor Sports Clubs, a Business Centre, a Dynamic Socio Club, a Museum, a Jewellery Cafe Lobby, and a Knowledge Park.
Talking about the EOI phase for Anantam’s Tower A, Vikas Garg, Joint Managing Director, Ganga Realty, commented, “We are delighted to conclude the opening of the EOI Phase for Tower A of our uber-luxury offering, Anantam. We would like to thank all the homebuyers who showed a vociferous interest in our project. Our project is an amalgamation of our founding philosophy and high-tech technologies to provide skyline living to our customers. We are happy to have received rave reviews about our newly launched project and are equally pleased that our buyers resonated with the concept of Dubai-based living experience we are aiming to recreate with this outing.”
Anantam’s Clubhouse will feature endless recreational amenities such as 4 Infinity Pools, a Gymnasium, a Yoga Room, an Observatory Deck, a Wave Pool, a Sun Lounger, an Open Air Bar, and a Restaurant with a Cafe. Alongside that, the Indoor Sports Club will feature elaborate spaces for new-age sports and fitness regimes such as Table Tennis, Billiards, Squash, Pilates, and a Meditation Room. The Outdoor Sports Club will entail a Cricket Pitch, a Badminton Court, a Jogging Track, a Basketball Court, a Skating Rink, a Kids’ Play Area, a Yoga Deck, a Meditation Area, a Reflexology Area, a Panchtatva Park, a Pet Park, an Open Gym, and a Climbing Wall.
Taggd Recognized as Star Performer and Major Contender in Everest Group’s 2024 RPO APAC PEAK Matrix® Assessment
Gurgaon, 19th Sep 2024—Taggd, India’s leading digital Recruitment firm, has been named a Star Performer and Major Contender in the prestigious Everest Group’s RPO PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024—Asia Pacific. This recognition underscores Taggd’s consistent commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and the ability to deliver global cutting-edge talent solutions.
As a Star Performer, Taggd has demonstrated outstanding performance improvements, and its positioning as a Major Contender highlights the company’s strategic growth and impactful contributions to reshaping the talent landscape. Taggd’s technology-driven approach and deep industry expertise have helped businesses attract, engage, and manage talent more effectively, positioning it as a trusted partner for Fortune 500 companies and emerging businesses.
On this achievement, Devashish Sharma, Founding Member and CEO of Taggd, expressed his views:
“This recognition by Everest Group is a testament to our unwavering focus on meeting the evolving talent acquisition needs of our clients. We are here to make each hiring manager successful and every single initiative – whether it is our investment in technology, Data, AI or our Customer focus – is to ensure that. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and are excited to continue our journey.”
“Taggd has established a strong foothold in the Indian RPO market, with deep experience in serving buyers from industries such as manufacturing, hi-tech and telecom, and pharmaceuticals and life sciences. Its prudent investments in creating its own technology stack, data layer, and candidate communities have helped it garner market success,” says Arkadev “Arko” Basak, Partner, Everest Group. “These factors have contributed to its positioning as a Major Contender and Star Performer in Everest Group’s Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024 – Asia Pacific.”
This accolade follows several other recent achievements by Taggd, reinforcing its leadership in recruitment. As businesses across the globe grapple with an increasingly competitive job market, Taggd’s role as a strategic partner continues to be recognized by industry leaders and influencers alike.
Discover Insider.in’s Ultimate Lineup of Navratri Events Across India
Join The Jalsa, Discover Insider.in’s Ultimate Lineup of Navratri Events Across India
India-wide, 19th September 2024: Halo re Halo! As the scent of joy and celebration fills the air, and the nation eagerly awaits the arrival of Navratri, Insider.in, is bringing forth a curated selection of the most spectacular events to soak in the spirit of Navratri right in your city. So, gear up to revel in the nine epic nights of Garba and Dandiya filled with vibrant live performances from popular singers, high-energy dhol beats, and an atmosphere of divine reverence accompanied by delectable cuisine, games, and much more. Grab your tickets on Insider.in before they sell out and make this Navratri an unforgettable ride of memories with friends and family!
Navratri in Maharashtra is all set to dazzle! Your very own events like ‘Radiance Dandiya’, and ‘Rangilo Re’ (with Parthiv Gohil) bring in the perfect blend of traditional Navratri with Mumbai’s unique vibe of glam and culture! The party doesn’t stop there— the ‘MBCA Dandiya Night’ is coming through with a 3-day, action-packed celebration! Also, ‘Boisar Raas Rang Season 3’ will be treating you with top-notch performances from traditional and contemporary artists, cultural displays, exquisite local cuisine and exciting giveaways.
Folks of Gujarat, it’s time to rock your ghagra-choli, kediyu, and kafni, and hit the grounds for some Garba with your gang and groove to the tunes of Sanne Do as the ‘Vadodara Navratri Festival’ returns for its 8th edition, bringing you the best of Gujarati culture and tradition.
Join the biggest ethnic Dandiya bash in Bengaluru with ‘Marathahalli’s BIGGEST DISCO DANDIYA NIGHT’. Pick up your fancy dandiya sticks and sway to the infectious beats and an explosion of festive flair!
Delhities, dive into the electrifying energy of ‘Rock N Dhol Shubharambh 2024’, the city’s ultimate Dandiya and Garba festival! Enjoy an incredible evening of dance, music, food, shopping activities, surprise appearances from your favourite social media stars and a lot more! Don’t miss out on the fun!
Apart from all these, you can pick from a myriad of sizzling Navratri events across the country, all set to enthral you! To make the celebrations even more exciting, Insider.in is offering up to ₹1000 off (T&C applied) on selected events. So, round up your squad and join the Jalsa where India grooves to Navratri’s rhythm!
KAFF Series Nordic: The Ultimate Standard in Premium Gas Hobs
With a legacy spanning over 25 years, KAFF has mastered the art of blending innovation, style, and performance — making them a trusted name in India’s kitchen appliances sector. And when you would want to witness the best of KAFF’s engineering, nothing makes a statement quite like KAFF’s Series Nordic of premium built-in gas hobs. The series gas hobs are the perfect embodiment of this legacy, offering both luxury and functionality in one sophisticated package.
Designed to turn heads, KAFF’s Series Nordic gas hobs bring a new level of elegance to any kitchen. With full brass burners, these hobs ensure uniform heat distribution, making every meal you cook a masterpiece. The frosted rock glass and crystal black glass finishes not only offer sleek, modern aesthetics but are also incredibly practical. These surfaces are easy to clean, ensuring your kitchen maintains its pristine charm after every use. And let’s not forget the added durability that comes from the stainless steel molded strip, which not only protects the front edge but enhances the overall premium feel of the hob.
Cooking should be a joy, not a stress, and KAFF has taken safety to heart with the Series Nordic. Every hob in this range is equipped with a Flame Failure Device (FFD) that automatically cuts off the gas supply if the flame is accidentally extinguished. This feature offers peace of mind for those with busy households or for anyone who values safety in their kitchen. Adding to the security, the heavy-duty cast iron pan supports provide rock-solid stability for even the largest cookware. These supports come with an integrated flame protector, giving you an added layer of protection against accidental flare-ups.
When it comes to control, the Nordic Series does not disappoint. The dual-colour metal knobs are not just a design choice — they offer precise control, allowing you to adjust the flame effortlessly to suit whatever you’re cooking. KAFF has also eliminated the need for lighters or matches by integrating electric ignition. With just a simple turn of the knob, you can ignite your burner instantly, making the entire cooking process smoother and more convenient.
No two kitchens are the same, and KAFF understands that. That’s why the Series Nordic comes in two sizes to cater to different kitchen layouts. The dimensions of the Series Nordic hobs are meticulously designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen, offering a sleek built-in look. With models like MARMOR and CRYSTAL NOIR, available in two sizes each, you have the flexibility to choose the best fit for your space while ensuring that every feature is optimized for ease of use and performance. KAFF’s Series Nordic of premium gas hobs are more than just kitchen appliances — they are a lifestyle upgrade. Not to forget, they’re efficient, and infinitely more stylish.
EDM Mall Brings abCoffee, Adds One More Name to Its Mix of Premium Brands
EDM Mall, Ghaziabad’s leading shopping and lifestyle destination, has further enhanced its dining and entertainment offerings with the grand opening of abCoffee. Known for its signature brews and gourmet treats, abCoffee attracted a crowd of coffee enthusiasts eager to indulge in its unique flavors.
Located alongside popular brands such as Costa Coffee, McDonald’s, Pantaloons, Shoppers Stop, Miniso, and Mamaearth, abCoffee adds to the vibrant mix of premium options available at EDM Mall, solidifying its position as the go-to hub for families, food lovers, and shoppers alike.
“We are excited to welcome abCoffee to our brand mix at EDM Mall. Known as India’s highest-rated, award-winning, and first tech-enabled coffee company, abCoffee’s focus on quality complements our goal of offering our visitors the best lifestyle and dining choices,” said Gaurav Gulati, Managing Director of CCPL, the owning company of EDM Mall.
In addition to its expanding range of dining choices, EDM Mall boasts a wide selection of top brands such as Metro Brands Mochi, Jockey, Femina, Barbeque Nation, Haldiram’s, Pizza Hut, and many more. The arrival of abCoffee further strengthens EDM Mall’s reputation as a comprehensive lifestyle destination, offering patrons an unmatched shopping, dining, and entertainment experience.
Indian Private Credit Solutions Firm Wins Multiple Portfolio Management Technology Awards in the US
Enabling global banks and private credit funds to solve data and scalability challenges
New Delhi, Sep 19, 2024: Oxane Partners, a leading technology-driven solutions provider to private markets, shares that its Oxane Panorama solution has been recognized with three U.S. awards – ‘Best Portfolio Management System of the Year’ at the PE Wire U.S. Credit Awards, and ‘Best Portfolio Management Software’ as well as the ‘Best Data Management Solution’ at the HFM U.S. Services Awards. The awards were presented in New York on September 12th, recognizing leading players in the alternative credit space.
As the size of the private asset market grows, investment firms are increasingly prioritizing strategic technology initiatives to unlock value and scale. Over the past decade, the market has grown by 10-fold and continues to expand, necessitating demand for solution partners who can effectively address the needs of investment firms in portfolio management, while enabling scale in a growing market.
For over a decade, Oxane has been addressing these needs with its flagship solution, Oxane Panorama suite of solutions. Built ground up for private credit, Oxane Panorama offers holistic coverage across asset-based lending, corporate credit, real assets, whole loan portfolios, securitized products, fund finance, and other illiquid assets, all within one unified ecosystem. By integrating a technology-first approach with deep domain expertise, Oxane continues to align with its mission of digitalizing and transforming private credit investments for its clients globally. As a reflection of Oxane’s commitment to client success, Oxane has been recognized with more than 25 accolades globally across its suite of solutions and services.
“As private credit grows in both size and importance, leveraging technology-driven solutions to analyze and manage investments is becoming imperative. Investment firms are looking for solution partners who share a common data language across investment processes. For over a decade now, our focus on private credit, combined with complementary technology, and domain expertise, has enabled our clients to achieve scale and control over their investment operations,” said Sumit Gupta, Co-Founder, and Managing Director of Oxane.
“We are pleased to be recognized with multiple award wins in a single night. These recognitions highlight our growing impact in the US market and the trust our clients place in us as we continue to deliver right-fit solutions for their private credit investments,” said Mr. Kanav Kalia, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Oxane Partners.
“As we mark a decade of innovation, we will continue to address market needs, expand the capabilities of Oxane Panorama’s suite, and bridge the technological gap within the global private credit ecosystem,” he added.