20th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  The 10th edition of IVASS – India Vehicle After Sales Summit, the world’s longest-running program on Vehicle After Sales Service, was recently held in New Delhi. Organized annually by the World Auto Forum (WAF), the summit brought together top leaders from the country’s After Sales Service community under one roof.

The theme this year was “Best Practices for Customer, Profitability, Digital & Growth”

WAF is thankful to the IVASS 24 partners who ensured it goes on to its 10th edition-

Gold OEM Partners
JSW MG Motor India | Volkswagen India
Powered By
Nippon Paint India
Gold Partners
Global Assure | Gallops Motors
Partners
Allianz Partners India
ASDC ( Automotive Skill Development Council ) | CarPhD.com

The summit opened with a powerful Welcome Keynote by Anuj Guglani, Founder & CEO of the WAF Group, who emphasized the four pillars driving success in the industry:

• Customer-Centricity for enhanced service experiences
• Profitability through strategic operational excellence
• Digital Transformation as a catalyst for innovation
• Growth powered by sustainable, scalable best practices

A special 1 min silence was observed in the memory of the visionary leader and great soul, Shri Ratan N Tata by the WAF Community. The 10th IVASS was dedicated to Him.

‘At IVASS, we are proud to witness leaders come together to set benchmarks for the industry. Customer satisfaction, operational excellence and leveraging technology are not just goals but necessities in today’s ever-changing business climate,’ said Anuj Guglani.

The 10th IVASS program featured four forward looking Power Panel Discussions and two insightful Keynote Sessions, led by top industry leaders. The event also included the prestigious WAF Global Hall of Fame ceremony, adding an exciting and celebratory touch to the proceedings.

WAF Global Hall of Fame

Two leaders of the Automotive and Mobility Industry got inducted to WAF Global Hall of Fame. In no specific order, they are –

• Arun Malhotra, Auto Industry Veteran

With decades of experience in the automotive industry, Arun Malhotra has been a guiding force in shaping the future of the sector. He continues to power the industry with his vast expertise and deep insights!

• Anuj Tyagi, Former National Head – After Sales – Ford India

Anuj Tyagi’s remarkable career has set new benchmarks across functions viz. Sales and Marketing, PR, Business Planning, Operations and after-sales service to name a few. His contributions continue to play a key role in enhancing customer experiences across India.

The first IVASS power panel discussion’s theme was “New Age Customer Service, Experience & Engagement powered by Digital – DMS, CRM, Social Media, Email, Whatsapp, SMS.”

The distinguished panelists included:

• Satish Kannan, Director – AfterSales, Stellantis India
• Vikas Kuthiala, Director & Co-founder, Global Assure
• Sanjay Shejwal, National Head – Service, Hero MotoCorp
• Rajesh Mehrotra, Auto Industry Veteran
• Anuj Guglani, Founder & CEO, WAF Group

The panel emphasized the transformative power of Digital Transformation in revolutionizing customer service and engagement. It was heartening to know that rural India has been taking the lead in digital adoption, apps usage and access to online loyalty programs. Innovative applications like workshop video check for approval of additional repair come handy in winning customer’s trust and enhancing automotive workshop’s operational efficiency.

Connecting VOC (Voice of Customer) to SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) via Digital as an enabler – An innovation rolled out by a car maker in India and taken globally as a best practice thereafter!

The discussion highlighted the importance of adopting Dealer Management Systems (DMS), CRM tools, and multi-channel platforms like Social Media, Email, WhatsApp, and SMS to deliver seamless, efficient, and highly personalized customer experiences.

The panelists collectively reinforced the need for businesses to embrace these digital tools to stay competitive and meet the evolving expectations of customers, ultimately driving growth and loyalty.

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Volkswagen India said, ‘At Volkswagen, customers are at the centre of our business. It is our continuous endeavour to offer them sturdy, safe and German-engineered products coupled with the highest standards of service in-turn offering them peace of mind and an exceptional value proposition.’

The second IVASS power panel discussion’s theme was “OEM – Dealers – Aftermarket Strategies, Use Cases & Game Plan for Win-Win-Win.”

The distinguished panelists included:

• S Muralidharan, Chairman, Mobility Aftermarket – SESSION CHAIR
• Pankaj Narula, Former ED, Maruti Suzuki India
• Rama Shankar Pandey, Social Defence Fellow, Ministry of Social Justice, Government of India
• Vikrantt Mohan, National President, All India Automobile Workshops Association (AIAWA)
• Harsh Vashist, Managing Director, Satyam Group of Companies
• Ramesh Rajagopalan, Head – Customer Services & Network, Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles
• Arindam Lahiri, CEO, Automotive Skill Development Corporation (ASDC)

The Panel underscored the critical need for a unified approach to strengthen the collaboration between OEMs, dealers and independent workshops, fostering a mutually beneficial ecosystem. The discussions emphasized the pivotal role of technological innovation and skill development in enhancing operational efficiency and profitability. Moreover, the importance of adopting sustainable and customer-centric practices was highlighted to ensure long-term growth. The session concluded with a collective commitment to driving collaboration, innovation, and digital transformation across the value chain, ensuring a “win-win-win” outcome for all stakeholders involved in the ecosystem.

Prashant Singh, Director – Aftersales at JSW MG Motor India said, ‘At JSW MG Motor India, leveraging technology and collaboration with leading tech players is key to elevate customer engagement and operational excellence. Our next-gen AI-powered chatbots have significantly enhanced customer experience, delivering efficiency and convenience across platforms. Since their inception, these chatbots have processed more than 3,00,000 messages. WhatsApp emerged as the preferred platform for high-volume initial engagement, managing over 55% of interactions, while the Web platform contributed around 60% to our test drive bookings, highlighting its effectiveness for action-oriented engagements. While the chatbots efficiently handle most queries, only 7% of conversations are escalated to our contact centres or email support for highly complex enquiries, edge cases, or issues where empathy and nuanced understanding are critical. To further enhance customer satisfaction, the chatbots identify and resolve looping issues, seamlessly redirecting unresolved cases to human support for effective problem-solving.’

Nikita Sinha, Head, Customer Experience and Service Planning, JSW MG Motor India delivered an insightful keynote on how customer delight can enhance productivity, ultimately driving profitability. Her insights highlighted the importance of putting the customer at the center of every decision and strategy.

Tanuj Pugalia, CMD, Gallops Group commented, ‘At Gallops Group, we prioritize the customer’s vehicle service experience, recognising its significance even before the initial purchase. The cost of maintenance, service quality, and overall customer satisfaction are pivotal in fostering repeat business. Our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional after-sales service experiences for all the OEM brands we partner with powers our leadership in customer retention, market share, and financial performance. Our dedication to excellence sets us apart and drives our success in the industry.’

In his Keynote address, Sharad Malhotra, President – Automotive Refinishes and Wood, Nippon Paint India, delivered an inspiring keynote address at the 10th IVASS, showcasing cutting-edge, environment-friendly innovations in body paint repair. He commented, ‘Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. As the paint industry evolves, Nippon Paint is driving change by integrating digital solutions and eco-friendly processes that address the challenges of body shops while contributing to a greener future. Together, we can transform the automotive industry for the better.’

Environment & Customer Friendly Innovations in Automotive Bodyshops at 10th IVASS by Nippon Paint

A special cake cutting ceremony was also held to celebrate the 10 glorious years of IVASS.

IVASS Partners, WAF Hall of Fame Inductees and WAF Team took the stage for the ceremony as the hall reverberated with cheering and applause, thanks to the WAF Community members present in the hall!

The IVASS Power Panel 3, focusing on “EV After Sales Service & Customer Support – Learnings, Caveats, and Opportunities.”

The panel featured an exceptional lineup of industry stalwarts, including:

• S Punnaivanam, CXO – Quality & After Sales, Greaves Electric Mobility
• Rajesh Loomba, MD, Eco Mobility
• Charu Kaushal, MD, Allianz Partners India
• Neha Jain, Head – EV and Innovation Ecosystem, JSW MG Motor India
• Shekhar Bhide, Vice President – Customer Services, Mercedes-Benz India
• Anuj Guglani, Founder & CEO, WAF Group

The panel highlights the essential need for building a robust aftersales ecosystem to elevate service quality and customer satisfaction for EV owners. It addressed key operational challenges, the scaling of service networks, and the role of digital innovations in shaping the future of EV aftersales. The panel emphasized the importance of collaboration between OEMs, service partners, and other ecosystem players to develop a future-ready aftersales service framework. By fostering these collaborative approaches, the sector can drive sustainable growth and ensure a seamless experience for EV customers moving forward.

The IVASS Power Panel 4, focused on “Best Practices in Workshop Profitability and Business Growth.”

The panel featured an esteemed lineup of industry leaders, including:

• Arun Malhotra, Auto Industry Veteran – SESSION CHAIR
• Pankaj Narula, Former ED, Maruti Suzuki India
• Vinkesh Gulati, Executive Committee Member, FADA
• Anuj Tyagi, Former National Head – After Sales, Ford India
• Rajeev Chauhan, Head – Electric PV Business, BYD India

The discussion focused on actionable strategies that workshops can implement to streamline operations, enhance service delivery, and ultimately boost profitability and long-term growth. Experts emphasized the role of digital tools and online platforms in improving workshop efficiency, customer engagement, and revenue generation, while stressing the importance of building customer loyalty through personalized experiences. This session underscored the need for workshops to evolve and embrace innovation in order to thrive in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven industry.

The program concluded with a Valedictory Ceremony, where WAF partners and associates were recognized and honored. In his Vote of Thanks, Mr. Anuj Guglani, Founder and CEO of WAF Group, conveyed his sincere appreciation to all partners and stakeholders for their vital role in ensuring the success of the 10th IVASS. Certificates of Appreciation were awarded in acknowledgment of their valuable support.

20th December 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India Truecaller, the leading global communications platform, today announced the launch of its latest innovation – Truecaller Verified Campaign, as part of its business offering.

As customer attention becomes increasingly fragmented across multiple channels, Truecaller Verified Campaign empowers businesses to create hyper-personalized, contextually relevant, and dynamic digital journeys for customers within their everyday communication experiences on the Truecaller app.

The existing Truecaller Customer Experience (CX) Solutions supports Verified Campaign, which is triggered by calling or messaging events on the Truecaller app. The product solves the long-standing challenge marketers face of missing out on using calls and SMS for personalized user engagement journeys. With Truecaller’s platform, businesses can now deliver high-touch interactions directly within the communication channels where customers are already active and engaged.

“Truecaller Verified Campaign allows businesses to communicate with customers in a space where they trust and engage with us daily. By integrating personalized and contextual communication, we are giving businesses the solution they need to cut through the noise and connect with their audiences in a meaningful way,” said Truecaller representative. “Our goal is to provide a seamless experience for both businesses and end customers, and the Verified Campaign is a major step in that direction.”

Businesses can reach audiences using their existing customer segmentation to deliver tailored communication interactions for use cases like onboarding, cross-selling, upselling, and more—all within the Truecaller ecosystem. This is combined with insights to help marketers drive the right value of hyper-personalization. Truecaller Verified Campaign integrates seamlessly with popular customer engagement platforms, enabling quick and easy campaign launches.

“As early adopters of Truecaller Verified Campaign, we are excited about the possibilities this brings to our customer engagement efforts. We look forward to leveraging this innovative capability to enhance our communication strategies,” said Ayush Gupta, Associate Director of Marketing at CARS24.

“We’re thrilled to be among the first to adopt the Truecaller Verified Campaign. We anticipate that its personalized and contextual hyper-targeting will significantly enrich our interactions with customers,” Yash Khandelwal, DGM Marketing at Motion Education.

20th December 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India  India comes in the top three list in producer of textile waste globally, generating over approximately 7.8 million tonnes or 8.5% of global textile waste in India. To illustrate, imagine over 1,000 large sports stadiums with textile waste, each one brimming with discarded clothes and fabrics.

With mounting concerns over resource depletion, pollution, and labor inequities, Enviu’s Reweave program is dedicated to reshaping the sector by developing scalable solutions in India, that create economic value while uplifting workers and protecting the planet.

Enviu hosted knowledge-sharing webinar on December 10, 2024, focused on tackling India’s textile waste problem. The session drew a diverse audience, including textile industry leaders, sustainability advocates, funders, recyclers, brands, and students. The team highlighted key gaps in India’s textile waste value chain, uncovering actionable opportunities to build sustainable solutions that align profitability with environmental responsibility.

With 20 years of expertise, Enviu demonstrated how its human-centered design approach identifies opportunities and transforms challenges into scalable business ventures. The webinar explored this methodology, showcasing innovative initiatives like reTex, The Good Felt (TGF), and Re-Minded ventures aimed at plugging critical gaps and driving systemic change in the textile waste ecosystem.

Highlights of the Webinar:

• • In-Depth Analysis of India’s Textile Waste Landscape: Enviu’s expert team presented their comprehensive study on India’s textile waste challenges, highlighting key gaps and areas where innovative solutions can be developed to address these pressing issues.
  • Innovative Solutions for a Circular Future: Enviu, showcased its ventures, including reTex, which recycles hotel textile waste, and The Good Felt (TGF), which transforms discarded textiles into high-quality felt products—demonstrating that sustainability can align with commercial success.
  • Denim Deal joining the conversation and sharing their plan for India, to bring their vision of sustainable denim to India and collaborate with local partners to drive positive change in the Denim industry.
  • National Institute of Urban Affairs, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs – talked about circularity in cities and the role of entrepreneurship to solve textile waste polluting cities.

Why This Matters:

• Enviu isn’t just identifying the problem of textile waste; we’re designing systemic solutions with a roadmap for action, backed by 20 years of expertise. Together with prominent partners, collaborators, and funders, we shared our knowledge for building a future-ready ecosystem.

“We believe that meaningful system change begins by tackling deep-rooted inefficiencies and gaps in the value chain,” said Jiska Coppoolse, Program Manager at Enviu. “We are addressing these problems through ventures like reTex and TGF, turning textile waste from different streams into opportunity for the industry, working closely with waste workers, delivering real impact for people and planet,” added Jiska.

• Denim Deal announced to kickstart their Asia Hub activities and expansion plans in India.

“We are thrilled to introduce the Denim Deal in India, harnessing our successful circular model to promote sustainability within the denim industry. Given India’s expanding market and robust production capabilities, it stands out as the ideal partner to help us forge a brighter, more circular future for denim. We invite all individuals and businesses who share our vision to join our movement and contribute to a successful launch in India,” stated Nicolas Prophte, Board member of the Denim Deal.

• Asif Raza, Program Manager of the CITIIS program at the National Institute of Urban Affairs, presented the plans for CITIIS 2.0 program, which fosters urban collaboration to enhance waste segregation and recycling systems

Material Recovery Facilities established under CITIIS 2.0 can transform textile processing by ensuring a consistent supply of sorted, recyclable textiles, lowering raw material costs, fostering circularity, and significantly reducing environmental impact, quoted Asif Raza, Program Manager of the CITIIS program.

Call to Action for Changemakers:

Reweave invites industry stakeholders to join hands in driving innovative, sustainable interventions to tackle textile waste and unlock India’s immense potential for a circular future.

By collaborating with us, stakeholders can catalyze transformative change across the value chain, creating significant economic, environmental, and social impact.

Missed the conversation on #IssuesToAction? Do not worry—we have got you covered. Access the webinar recording here and our Landscape Mapping Report, packed with insights and solutions for a sustainable tomorrow.

20th December 2024  Bengaluru, Karnataka, India MANA Projects, a leading name in Bengaluru’s real estate sector, announced the launch of its latest residential project, MANA Cresta. Registered under RERA with the number PRM/KA/RERA/, this upscale development in Chikkanayaknahalli, just 1.2 km off Sarjapur Road, blends modern living with nature-inspired architecture, offering a lifestyle that balances comfort and functionality.

MANA Cresta stands as a demonstration of MANA Projects’ commitment to reimagining urban living, offering residents a unique living experience that combines contemporary design with traditions. The project’s carefully chosen amenities and architecture, which draw inspiration from nature, are meant to raise the living standards of its occupants while offering peaceful living in the middle of Bangalore’s IT corridor.

Covering 2.45 acres, MANA Cresta features four towers with G+7 and G+8 buildings, offering 180 premium apartments designed for a spacious and comfortable lifestyle. The project includes 2 BHK, 2.5 BHK, and 3 BHK apartments, with prices starting from Rs. 1.27 Crore. Each apartment offers Vastu-aligned areas that support balance and well-being, all while emanating modern sophistication and remaining firmly grounded in time-honored

“At MANA Projects, we believe in crafting living spaces that transcend the ordinary,” said Mr. D Kishore Reddy, CMD MANA Projects. “MANA Cresta exemplifies our dedication to creating homes where modern elegance blends seamlessly with timeless tradition, crafting spaces filled with beauty and serenity. Our vision extends beyond construction; we are shaping a lifestyle that embraces innovation while staying true to the values our residents cherish. Every element of MANA Cresta, from its Vastu-compliant designs to its state-of-the-art amenities, has been thoughtfully crafted to deliver a living experience that is in harmony with nature.”

The terracotta-toned homes in the project have wavy balconies that radiate modern beauty, giving it a distinctive architectural style. Room arrangements with a Vastu influence are harmonious and pleasing to both traditional and modern tastes. At MANA Cresta, the natural world is a partner in daily living rather than merely a picturesque setting. The project’s design concept, centered around curvilinear architecture and lush landscaped greenery, fosters a seamless connection with the environment. From sunrise to sunset views, residents will enjoy the ideal fusion of contemporary elegance and the peacefulness of nature, creating a tranquil haven in the middle of the busy metropolis. MANA Cresta further enriches life by incorporating active and passive zones for all age groups, offering vibrant spaces for recreation and relaxation that unite like-minded individuals in a thriving community.

Key Amenities and Features:

• 30+ high-end features are available, such as social pods, a basketball court, a play area for kids, a rooftop swimming pool, and a serene tree court.
• A G+3 clubhouse is created as a gathering place for people to relax and socialize.
• Features that promote sustainability include solar-powered EV charging stations and eco-friendly materials.
• Provision for landscaped balconies and square-shaped, Vastu-compliant floor plan with no dead space, ensuring optimal utility and harmony.
• Unobstructed sunrise and sunset views from large windows offer a tranquil living experience.
• Only 6 flats per floor, served by 2 lifts for enhanced convenience and privacy.

The project’s location in the IT Corridor provides easy access to major schools, colleges, tech parks, malls, shopping centers, and hospitals. With units starting at Rs. 1.3 crore. The project is an appealing choice for individuals and families looking for premium yet reasonably priced living in one of Bangalore’s most thriving localities.

20th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Axis Max Life Insurance Ltd. formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Ltd. (“Axis Max Life”/ “Company”), has announced the inclusion of ‘Axis’ in its corporate name following the Corporate & Regulatory approvals. Additionally, the Company has been rebranded to Axis Max Life Insurance, marking a pivotal milestone in its brand evolution. The integration of two trusted names in the financial services sector will empower the Company to achieve its long-term growth aspirations through strategic expansion beyond metros and tier 1 cities.

The refreshed brand identity is reflected in a new logo through the inclusion of Axis’s iconic ‘A’ and burgundy shade. The refreshed brand identity, including the new corporate name and logo, is the result of comprehensive marketing research with key stakeholders. The predominant Blue symbolizes trust, responsibility, loyalty, and calmness while the incorporation of Burgundy reflects a distinctive character, modern appeal and forward-thinking approach. Furthermore, the visual integration of “Axis” and “Max” in the refreshed brand identity conveys enhanced trust in the brand, encapsulating the spirit of Double Bharosa (enhanced trust).

Axis Max Life marks this significant milestone in its brand journey with the launch of an integrated marketing campaign ‘Double Bharosa’ featuring its brand ambassador, Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma, and his spouse, Ritika Sajdeh. The campaign emphasizes the dual promise of trust and reliability, showcasing the combined strengths of Max Life and Axis in the life insurance and financial services industries, offering customers enhanced assurance and protection.

Prashant Tripathy, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Axis Max Life Insurance said, “The refreshed identity represents more than a change in our brand name-it is a bold step forward in our commitment to redefine the life insurance landscape. Our renewed identity embodies our firm promise to deliver exceptional value to all our stakeholders. With Axis now an integral part of our identity, we are well-positioned to capitalize on new opportunities and accelerate our growth by expanding our distribution network, enhancing customer touchpoints, and delivering digitally empowered services. Together, we are confident in achieving our vision of ranking among the top three life insurers in India.”

Since FY24, as part of its growth strategy, Axis Max Life has significantly enhanced its proprietary channels by opening over 90 new offices in Tier 2 cities and beyond. Additionally, Axis Max Life has actively expanded its distribution ecosystem, onboarding 41 new partners in FY24 and an additional 20 partners in H1 FY25. This expansion aligns with the brand refresh, enabling the company to deepen its penetration in these high-potential markets and collaborate with a diverse range of partners while sustaining long-term growth.

Rajiv Anand, Deputy Managing Director, Axis Bank and Chairman, Axis Max Life Insurance said, “The coming together of the Axis and Max brands marks a new chapter in our longstanding partnership built on shared vision. This change is not just symbolic but a reflection of our aspiration of addressing India’s diverse financial security needs. This milestone sets the stage for deeper collaboration as we work towards securing brighter future for millions across the country.”

20th December 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  Novo Nordisk Global Business Services, phData, Tekwissen, OneMagnify, BHS World, Venture Offshore Infomatrix, and Cenlub Systems have been recognized as the top best places to work in India for 2024, according to the prestigious Best Places to Work certification program.

Novo Nordisk Global Business Services, a global leader in healthcare, secured the top position for its unwavering commitment to fostering employee well-being, providing excellent development opportunities, and promoting a culture of inclusion and innovation.

phData, a leading analytics services provider, earned the second spot, recognized for creating a supportive and empowering environment where employees are encouraged to thrive and innovate in the field of data analytics.

Tekwissen, an IT services and staffing solutions company, ranked third, celebrated for its transparent, growth-focused culture that supports employees’ professional development and fosters a collaborative work environment.

OneMagnify, a customer engagement, market research, and digital marketing firm, secured fourth place for its focus on employee creativity, work-life balance, and providing opportunities for growth and innovation in a supportive, inclusive culture.

BHS World, a global supply chain management company, ranked fifth for its commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment where employees feel recognized, valued, and supported in achieving both personal and professional success.

Venture Offshore Infomatrix, an IT services and consulting firm, earned sixth place for its employee empowerment initiatives, providing the tools and opportunities for success in the fast-evolving IT industry.

Cenlub Systems, a leading manufacturer of lubrication systems, rounded out the top seven for its safe, inclusive work environment that prioritizes employee well-being, teamwork, and continuous growth.

These companies have demonstrated exceptional leadership in creating workplaces where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to contribute to organizational success. Their collective achievements reflect a shared commitment to advancing people-centric workplace strategies that foster employee growth and business success.

Best Places to Work is an international certification program recognized as the ‘Platinum Standard’ for identifying and celebrating top workplaces worldwide. The program helps organizations benchmark their HR practices, improve employee satisfaction, and highlight those delivering exceptional employee experiences.

In India, the program partners with organizations from diverse industries each year to deliver actionable insights, enhance organizational agility, and strengthen business effectiveness with people-focused strategies.

20th December 2024  Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India  Sambhv Steel Tubes Limited, one of the key manufacturers of electric resistance welded (“ERW”) steel pipes and structural tubes (hollow section) in India in terms of the installed capacity as of March 31, 2024 (Source: CRISIL Report); proudly announces its expansion of product portfolio with the unveiling a range of stainless steel products. This new line-up features stainless steel coils, including hot rolled annealed and pickled (“HRAP”) coils and stainless steel cold rolled coils (collectively “Stainless Steel Coils”), which we have begun manufacturing from in-house stainless steel slabs and stainless steel HR coil having an installed capacity of 60,000 MTPA as of September 20, 2024, and are designed to deliver quality, durability, and versatility for a variety of industrial applications.

The newly launched Stainless Steel Coils are manufactured using advanced technology and process of Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) which ensures consistent product quality.

The Stainless Steel Coils stand out for their strength, diverse applications across sectors, versatility, and corrosion resistance.

Proud on achieving this new feat, Vikas Goyal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sambhv Steel Tubes Limited said, “Our new product- stainless steel coils with backward integration are designed to meet the demanding requirements across diverse sectors while ensuring sustainable manufacturing practices. These coils are engineered to meet the requirements across industries like automobiles, railways and transport, architecture, building and construction and consumer goods ensuring both sustainability and performance

Key Highlights

• Entry into the high-value stainless steel coil market
• Diversified product portfolio serving multiple industries
• Technological leadership with AOD technology

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.