Mumbai, 18 September 2024: The buy vs. rent debate rages on as more and more Indians migrate to urban centres and evaluate their options. While there are sound arguments for and against both options, the question itself is also geography centric. ANAROCK Research data shows that rental values in key micro-markets of the top 7 cities have gone up to a significant 72% between 2021-end and H1 2024, while capital values saw lower growth.

Dr. Prashant Thakur, Regional Director & Head, Research – ANAROCK Group, says, “Data analysis of key micro-markets in the top 7 cities shows that in cities like Bengaluru, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai, average residential rental values rose more than the capital values between 2021-end to H1 2024. However, areas in NCR, MMR and Hyderabad saw the reverse trend – capital values appreciated more than the rental values.

Such data can be a key parameter – though by no means the only one – used to determine whether it is more advantageous to buy a property or opt for renting.”

 Top markets where rental value growth outpaced capital value appreciation – 2021-end to H1 2024-end

• Bengaluru’s Sarjapur Road saw average monthly rental values increase by 67%, while capital values increased by 54%. At Thannisandra Main Road, avg. rental values rose 56% while capital values appreciated 52%.
• Pune’s Hinjewadi saw rental values appreciate by 52%, while capital values rose just 31%. In Wagholi, rental values growth was 60% while capital values rose by just 30%.
• In Kolkata’s EM Bypass, rental value appreciation was 46%, while capital values growth was just 15%. In Rajarhat, rental value growth was 30% while capital appreciation was 23%.
• Chennai’s Pallavaram recorded rental value growth of 40%, while capital values rose by 18%. At Perambur, rental value growth was 33% while capital appreciation was 18%.

Avg. Monthly Rentals Growth
Cities	Micro Markets	2021-end	Q2 2024	% Change
Bengaluru	Sarjapur Rd	21,000	35,000	67%
	Thannisandra Main Rd	20,500	32,000	56%
Hyderabad	HITECH City	23,000	33,500	46%
	Gachibowli	22,000	33,000	50%
Pune	Hinjewadi	17,800	27,000	52%
	Wagholi	14,200	22,700	60%
NCR	Sohna Road	25,000	35,000	40%
	Sector-150 (Noida)	16,000	25,000	56%
MMR	Chembur	46,000	63,500	38%
	Mulund	39,500	49,700	26%
Kolkata	EM Bypass	19,000	27,800	46%
	Rajarhat	15,000	19,500	30%
Chennai	Perambur	16,200	21,600	33%
	Pallavaram	14,900	20,800	40%

Top markets where capital value appreciation outpaced rental value appreciation – 2021-end to H1 2024-end

Key micro-markets in NCR, MMR and Hyderabad witnessed this trend. For instance:

• NCR’s Sohna Road saw rental values rise 40% in the period, while capital values jumped by 54%. Likewise, Sector-150 in Noida saw rental value growth of 56%, while capital values appreciated by a whopping 126%.
• In MMR’s Chembur, rental growth was 38% while capital appreciation stood at 39%. In Mulund, rental values appreciated by 26% while capital prices rose 36%.
• Hyderabad’s HITECH City and Gachibowli also saw capital appreciation outpace rental values. In HITECH City, rental value growth was 46% and capital appreciation was 59%, while Gachibowli saw rental values rise 50% and capital values by 70%.

Avg. Capital Values
Cities	Micro Markets	2021-end	Q2 2024	% Change
Bengaluru	Sarjapur Rd	6,050	9,300	54%
	Thannisandra Main Rd	5,345	8,100	52%
Hyderabad	HITECH City	5,800	9,200	59%
	Gachibowli	5,010	8,500	70%
Pune	Hinjewadi	5,710	7,500	31%
	Wagholi	4,951	6,450	30%
NCR	Sohna Road	6,800	10,500	54%
	Sector-150 (Noida)	5,500	12,500	127%
MMR	Chembur	18,735	26,000	39%
	Mulund	16,917	23,000	36%
Kolkata	EM Bypass	7,055	8,100	15%
	Rajarhat	4,472	5,500	23%
Chennai	Perambur	6,381	7,550	18%
	Pallavaram	5,700	6,700	18%

Back to the Debate

This data is pertinent but is just one of many factors that guide a rent versus buy decision. Not every individual who migrates to a certain city for job opportunities intends to put down permanent roots there. Others may be drawn to the city’s urban ethos and decide to make it their home, while yet others may perceive value in investing in a property there regardless of whether they will settle down there or not.

Other factors that drive such a decision are financial wherewithal, job growth prospects, stage of life, size of family, and personal preferences.

An individual in Bengaluru with a stable job who is paying a monthly rent of INR 50,000 for a standard 2 BHK worth INR 1.2 Cr may grapple with the rent or buy dilemma.

If the individual decides to stay on rent, then:

• One-year payable rent for the individual is INR 50,000 x 12 = INR 6,00000/-
• For next 10 years the total rental outgo + 7% annual rental escalation = approx. INR 83 lakh
• This rental outgo is almost 69% of the total cost of this property – and this is just an expense with no investment value accrued.

“If the individual opts to buy the property via a home loan, has the financial wherewithal to make a 20% down payment and borrows the remaining amount over a 10-year tenure at 9.5% interest rate, such a purchase if definitely profitable,” says Dr. Thakur. “Instead of spending a huge amount on rent, the individual can pay monthly EMIs and ultimately own the physical asset after a ten-year period.”

This is just one of innumerable situations individuals find themselves in, and investment merit alone does not always play such a big role while weighing the pros and cons of renting versus buying a home.

However, current trends indicate that the security of owning a physical asset cannot be discounted. This trend came strongly to the fore during the coronavirus pandemic, when more Indians – including rent-favouring millennials – took a hard look at what they could fall back on when things go south.

Interestingly, it has not abated since then. Amid a rising aversion to high-risk investments, an increasing number of tenants see rent as an expense, and EMIs as SIPs towards a non-volatile asset.

The sentiment favouring homeownership is also supported by relatively cheaper home loan interest rates currently averaging between 8.75% and 9.5%.

Also, homebuyers can avail of:

• Deduction on principal repayment and stamp duty & registration charges
• Deduction on repayment of interest charges
• A further deduction of INR 50,000 for first-home buyers
• Various additional tax benefits for women

“There is a lot to unpack when deciding whether to buy or rent a home, and investment rationale alone will not guide all such decisions,” says Dr. Thakur. “If and when the quandary arises, it makes sense to be sure of one’s personal preferences and prerogatives – and the performance of the market one is considering.”

Mumbai, 18th September 2024 – Nazara Technologies Limited (BSE: 543280 NSE: NAZARA), India’s leading diversified gaming and sports media company, today announced its largest fund raise to boost its growth trajectory. The company’s board has approved a preferential equity issue to raise INR 900 crores, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals. This capital infusion will fuel strategic acquisitions, fund business expansion, and enhance the company’s ability to seize new growth opportunities.

The preferential equity issue amounting to INR 900 crores will be placed with marquee investors such as SBI Mutual Fund, Junomoneta Finsol (an associate of Plutus Wealth), Think Investments, Discovery Investments, Mithun and Siddharth Sacheti, Cohesion Investments, Chartered Finance and Leasing, Ratnabali Investments and Aamara Capital, further strengthening Nazara’s financial foundation for long-term expansion. These shares will be subject to SEBI regulations and lock-in requirements as per Chapter V of the SEBI (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations 2018.

In a parallel development, Nazara also acquired an additional 19.35% stake in Absolute Sports Pvt. Ltd., the parent company of Sportskeeda, for INR 145.5 crores, with 50% of the consideration paid in cash and the remaining amount in stock. With this, Nazara now holds a 91% ownership stake in Absolute Sports, solidifying its leadership position in the sports media domain.

Sportskeeda, Absolute Sports’ flagship brand, reaches millions of sports fans globally each month, with significant traction in India and the U.S., where it ranks among the top sports platforms. In addition, Absolute Sports has recently expanded by acquiring Pro Football Network (PFN), SoapCentral, and Deltia’s Gaming, further diversifying its sports and entertainment portfolio.

Nitish Mittersain, CEO & Jt MD of Nazara Technologies Limited remarked “Nazara has demonstrated its ability to attract top-tier investors who believe in our long-term vision of establishing India’s first globally respected gaming powerhouse. This INR 900 crores fundraise will be instrumental in accelerating our growth across key segments. Additionally, increasing our stake to 91% in Absolute Sports (Sportskeeda) reinforces our leadership in the sports media landscape. The growth of Absolute Sports, from its early days as a startup to becoming a global media player, underscores our commitment to supporting innovative teams that consistently deliver transformational growth.

Mumbai, 18 September 2024: RSWM Limited, the flagship company of the LNJ Bhilwara Group, strengthened its commitment to the sustainability journey by launching its comprehensive Sustainability Report at the 3rd Sustainable Textile Summit, hosted by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The report was unveiled by Mr. Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles, Govt. of India, and Mr. Rohit Kansal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, showcasing RSWM’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable textile production.

Smt. Roop Rashi, Textile Commissioner of India, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, was also present at the summit, along with other dignitaries and industry leaders who commended RSWM’s proactive approach to sustainability. The newly launched report highlights the company’s key initiatives in circular economy practices, carbon footprint reduction, and innovations in green textile manufacturing. Guided by the philosophy of giving back to nature, RSWM’s approach centers on the principle of reducing, reusing, recycling, and replenishing natural resources, reflecting its long-standing leadership in sustainable practices.

Report Link: https://story.rswm.in/report/RSWM_Sustainability_Report_LR_2.pdf

Addressing the global plastic waste crisis, RSWM recycles approximately 1,830 million PET bottles each year, converting them into 51850 MT of recycled polyester fibre. This effort significantly reduces landfill waste and supports the creation of sustainable textile products. To further reduce fossil fuel consumption, RSWM consumes 8,818 metric tons of biofuel annually, derived from dry husks. This initiative highlights the company’s dedication to using sustainable alternatives in its manufacturing processes.

In addition to these key sustainability initiatives, the company also follows Zero Liquid Discharge strictly where they have implemented advanced multi-stage treatment plants in its facilities, resulting in the annual saving of approximately 23,36,792 kilolitres of water. In its quest to minimize reliance on traditional energy sources, RSWM has adopted solar and wind power, utilizing 76.5 million kilowatt-hours of green energy annually. This shift not only reduces dependency on local power grids but also contributes to national energy sustainability.

RSWM has achieved an annual reduction of 800,000 metric tons in CO2 emissions through various energy-efficient practices, showcasing the company’s proactive approach to mitigating climate change. Additionally, RSWM focuses on the upcycling of textile waste by incorporating 8,162 metric tons of recycled cotton into its production processes each year, promoting the sustainable use of resources in the textile industry. In its commitment to sustainable greenery, RSWM uses 72,357 kilograms of organic manure and fertilizers annually, enhancing soil health and reducing the environmental footprint of its agricultural inputs.

 

Mr. B.M. Sharma, Jt. Managing Director, RSWM Ltd. said, “Our approach to sustainability extends beyond merely meeting regulatory requirements; it represents our dedication to initiating significant change within the industry. Sustainability is not just a business mandate but a core part of our culture, deeply ingrained in our operations. From decisions on whether to discard or reuse, we strive to embed sustainability into every aspect of our business.

We believe that transparency is crucial, and we are committed to reporting our progress through various channels, including social media and internal reports. It is essential to maintain a balance sheet that reflects what we take from nature and what we give back. Allocating dedicated budgets for sustainability within our annual plans is a priority for us. We aim to make sustainability a central value, not only as a corporate responsibility but as a cultural principle that demonstrates our commitment to protecting the environment for future generations.”

 

RSWM’s sustainability journey is marked by continuous innovation. The company is expanding its use of sustainable fibers, including organic and recycled cotton, linen, hemp, jute, silk, and more. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to revolutionize the textile industry by integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations.

Mumbai, 18 September 2024: mPokket – one of India’s fastest-growing digital lending apps – today announced plans to expand its workforce by creating more than 5,000 new job opportunities during FY2024-25. This reflects the Company’s commitment to driving growth and empowering India’s youth via both financial services and career opportunities.

With a current workforce of more than 2,300 full-time employees, mPokket focuses on key areas such as technology, product development, data analytics and customer experience. The Company is actively seeking talent from the fintech, software products and NBFC sectors to support rapid growth and enhance its service offerings.

Elaborating on the recruitment plans, Mr Gaurav Jalan, Founder and CEO of mPokket, said, “We realise that today’s evolving economy demands more than just job creation; it requires crafting opportunities that align with the aspirations of our youth. We are dedicated to driving this transformation by creating an environment where talent and innovation converge. At mPokket, our goal is to provide every young Indian with secure financial opportunities and the tools to excel in the digital age. At the heart of our mission is youth empowerment and, as we grow, we look forward to welcoming new team members who share our vision and dedication. Together, this will contribute to both our success and India’s broader economic development.”

As part of its ongoing growth strategy, mPokket has introduced several HR initiatives to promote employee well-being and professional development, including flexible work schedules for caregivers, a Micro Masters Program for continuous learning and the SkillPokket Reimbursement Program, which subsidizes employees’ e-learning courses. Additionally, mPokket offers other development courses such as the First Time Manager Program for newly promoted managers and Workplace Safety (POSH) training.

mPokket’s recruitment spans various locations across India, collaborating with prestigious institutions such as IIT, NIT, BIBS and United World for internships and full-time roles. These efforts contribute to a diverse workforce, with female employees making up 48% of the team, reflecting a near-equal gender ratio.

This job creation initiative comes on the heels of mPokket’s recent INR 500 crore debt capital raise, which is meant to increase product development in career acceleration and insurance verticals. Having already disbursed more than $2 billion in loans, mPokket is positioned to strengthen its role as a leader in the digital lending space while contributing significantly to India’s fintech growth and youth empowerment.

Sugatsune, a global leader in metal hardware manufacturing, is distinguished by its Japanese heritage and engineering excellence. Founded in 1930 in Japan, Sugatsune brings precision, durability, and innovation that are hallmarks of Japanese craftsmanship. With nearly a century of experience, the brand has set a high standard for quality across various sectors, including homes, offices, architecture, and industrial applications. Sugatsune’s products are celebrated for their longevity, minimal maintenance requirements, and outstanding performance, reflecting the advanced technology and careful engineering of Japanese manufacturing.

In India, Sugatsune is committed to enhancing spaces by making them more convenient, safe, and unique. Each year, the company introduces new products to align with the latest design trends and technological advancements. With over 20,000 products spanning various categories, including hinges, pocket door systems, handles, locks, drawer slides, and hooks, Sugatsune’s hardware is renowned for its precision and reliability.

Sugatsune is excited to expand its presence in India, offering advanced hardware solutions to a growing customer base. As the company continues to strengthen its foothold in the country, more architects, interior designers, and industrial manufacturers are choosing Sugatsune’s innovative products to enhance homes, offices, and industrial spaces.

Mr. Anil Rana, Managing Director, Sugatsune India, states, “We are excited to expand our presence in India by opening more experience centers, where consumers can engage with our products directly. Currently, we have centers in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Pune, with plans for new locations in Bangalore and Hyderabad. Our network includes distributors and dealers in 23 cities across India. We are dedicated to strengthening these relationships and maintaining Sugatsune’s reputation as a leader in innovative hardware solutions, focusing on enhancing efficiency, safety, and design in response to the evolving needs of the market.”

The brand’s reputation for delivering high-quality, durable solutions is building trust among professionals, who rely on Sugatsune to meet their project needs. With each passing year, footfall in India increases, reflecting the confidence customers place in the brand.

One of Sugatsune’s most popular products in India is the patented Lapcon technology. This cutting-edge feature ensures smooth and silent closing for doors, drawers, and flaps, preventing slamming and minimizing accidents. It is an ideal solution for Indian homes and workplaces where safety and silence are important.

Sugatsune provides expert support through its trained sales teams and technician specialists, ensuring that Indian customers receive tailored advice for their projects. Whether clients are involved in home renovations, office setups, or industrial designs, Sugatsune’s team is equipped to offer detailed guidance across their extensive product range. The company’s commitment to customer education and technical assistance underscores its core competency in delivering personalized, expert solutions that help clients make informed decisions and achieve their project goals effectively.

Sugatsune takes pride in offering products that work quietly in the background, yet play a vital role in improving daily life—whether at home, work, or in an industrial setting. As the company expands in India, it looks forward to introducing even more innovative solutions that make life easier, safer, and more comfortable for Indian customers.

Inspired by India’s Ayurvedic heritage, Dusky India’s journey has been fueled by a desire to make Ayurveda accessible to everyone. The brand celebrates the natural tone and texture of Indian skin, which is beautifully distinct from other parts of the world.

Rooted in Ayurvedic principles, Dusky India’s products are designed to meet the modern demands of a fast-paced lifestyle. The brand has recently launched two face washes – for acne prone skin and one for all skin types.

Delay Ageing Face Wash With Gotukola

This is a perfect option for those looking to delay signs of ageing. A power house of good for skin ingredients like Gotu Kola Powder, Rose Water, Bakuchi Powder, Lactic Acid, Aloe Vera Extracts and Dahlia Oil; it helps rejuvenate skin and brings back youthful radiance with firm and younger looking skin.

Its key ingredients help boost collagen production, improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also promotes skin cell renewal, reduces pigmentation and helps fight signs of aging. The formula gently exfoliates dead skin cells, promoting a brighter and smoother complexion while improving skin texture. It also helps keep the skin hydrated and deeply moisturized while soothing the skin and calming any skin irritations.

Experience soft supple skin with a radiant glow, even toned skin, reduced fine lines and wrinkles with regular use.

Suitable for all skin types, including dry, combination, and mature skin. The formulation is 100% Ayurvedic with no harmful chemicals or artificial substances. Is Paraben Free, Sulphate Free, Cruelty Free and Dermatologically tested. Can be used in the AM and PM routine. Follow up with a moisturizer.

NEW DELHI, September 2024 – Aflatoon, from the House of SOCIAL, is here to redefine indulgence with a playful and delicious twist on North Indian cuisine, delivered straight to your door. Perfect for those who believe that every meal should be a treat, Aflatoon offers a menu bursting with rich flavors and unique combinations that make every bite a delight.

At Aflatoon, every dish is a celebration of flavor, crafted to satisfy your cravings. For those who enjoy a hearty spread, the Non-Veg Dawat is a perfect choice: a combination of tender Umami Chicken Malai Tikka, rich Truffled Butter Chicken, flaky Laccha Parathas, aromatic Jeera Rice, and the sweet finish of Gulab Jamun. It’s a complete feast that brings the best of North Indian flavors together for a true indulgence.

Vegetarians will love the Veg Dawat, which features the mouthwatering Churan Dusted Kale Hara Bhara Kebab, the decadent Truffled Paneer Makhanwala, accompanied by Laccha Parathas, Jeera Rice, and Gulab Jamun. It’s a combination that transforms traditional vegetarian dishes into a sumptuous treat.

For a lighter, yet flavorful bite, try the Kale and Palak Patta Chaat. This vibrant dish combines crispy kale and spinach fritters, quinoa, and fresh fruits like orange segments and pomegranate, all drizzled with mint chutney, yogurt, and saunth for a refreshing, tangy kick. Or go for the Crispy Quinoa and Bhalla Chaat—a delightful mix of crunchy quinoa and fluffy bhallas served with an array of tangy chutneys that create an explosion of flavor in every bite.

Seafood lovers can dive into the Lemongrass Pesto Prawns, tender prawns tossed in a zesty lemongrass pesto with hints of coconut and coriander, or enjoy the smoky richness of the Ras El Hanout Cobbler, fish marinated in fragrant spices and baked to perfection.

Meat enthusiasts will appreciate the bold flavors of the Butter Garlic Mutton Seekh, silky mutton seekh kebabs glazed in buttery garlic, and the comforting Mutton Haleem with Quinoa Kachumber, a slow-cooked mutton and lentil stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in. For those who love a good biryani, the Smoked Chicken Biryani Bianco offers melt-in-the-mouth chicken layered with long-grain basmati rice, while the Bhoona Gosht Biryani serves up juicy mutton in a richly spiced gravy.

Even the classics get a twist at Aflatoon—like the Truffle Paneer Makhanwala, with succulent paneer in a rich, truffle-infused gravy, or the 6-Chilli Kadai Paneer, featuring crispy paneer cubes tossed with six types of chilies for a smoky, spicy treat.

Sweet cravings are satisfied with our luscious desserts like Golden Gulab Jamun, soaked in sweet syrup, or the unique Betel Leaf Rasmalai, a silky smooth treat infused with the aromatic flavor of betel leaf.

Aflatoon’s dishes are served in vibrant packaging that’s as exciting as the food itself, featuring reusable tins and jars that make every order feel special from the moment it arrives. Available exclusively on Zomato from 11 AM to 11:30 PM, Aflatoon is ready to bring a feast of flavors straight to your home.

So go ahead, treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence with Aflatoon’s unique and delicious menu. Each dish promises to surprise, delight, and make every meal feel like a special occasion.

Strengthening the Country’s Role in Shaping the Global AI Landscape through Open, Safe, and Responsible AI Practices

INDIA, Bengaluru, September 18, 2024 –The AI Alliance, a global community dedicated to advancing safe and responsible AI through open innovation, has expanded its membership to include seven leading Indian organizations: AI4Bharat (IIT Madras), IIT Jodhpur, Infosys, KissanAI, People+AI, Sarvam AI, and Wadhwani AI. This move reinforces India’s growing contribution to the global AI landscape and marks a significant expansion of the Alliance. These companies are joined by IIT Bombay as one of the founding members of the Alliance.

India’s AI landscape is rapidly evolving, with the Government’s IndiaAI mission aiming to catalyze and nurture the ecosystem by democratizing access to technology and resources. With a large and vibrant developer community and start-up ecosystem, India has made tremendous strides in leading the AI adoption and innovation and is on the path to become a global hub for AI talent, skill, and innovation. Open-source approach to AI innovation aligns with the vision of the Indian government, which supports the adoption and use of open-source technology to achieve India’s digital transformation goals.

Open and transparent innovation is essential to empower a broad spectrum of AI researchers, builders, and adopters with the information and tools needed to harness these advancements in ways that prioritize safety, diversity, economic opportunity, and benefits to all.

AI Alliance, which is dedicated to the mission of promoting open, safe, and responsible artificial intelligence is proud to add a diverse mix of academia, startups, enterprises from India who are committed to open science and open technologies and want to participate in the new wave of AI innovation. By joining the Alliance, Indian organizations can contribute and collaborate to shape the evolution of the global AI landscape that reflects the needs and the complexity of India.

“India’s growing AI landscape presents unique opportunities and challenges. By joining the AI Alliance, these organizations will be able to tap into global expertise and a collaborative network that will enable them to tackle the ethical and technical challenges of AI for India head-on, and in an open manner.”, said Dr. Amith Singhee, Director, IBM Research India and CTO IBM India and South Asia “Together, we can promote the development and deployment of AI in a manner that is safe, transparent, and beneficial to all.”

“The inclusion of Indian organizations in the AI Alliance underscores India’s growing influence in the global AI landscape. As we continue to push the boundaries for what is possible with AI collaboration across borders and industries is crucial.” said Shivnath Thukral, Vice President and Head of Public Policy, Meta India. “At Meta, we are committed to advancing AI in a way that benefits everyone, and we believe that the contributions of these new members will significantly strengthen our collective efforts.”

The Indian organizations joining the AI Alliance represent a cross-section of industries and academic institutions, including technology, agriculture, and AI research. Their participation in the Alliance underscores the importance of a collaborative approach to AI development in India, where the need for responsible AI practices is paramount.

Mitesh M Khapra, Head, AI4Bharat, Associate Professor at CSE Department, IIT Madras: “AI4Bharat is excited to join the AI Alliance, reinforcing our commitment to advancing AI technology for Indian languages. Through this collaboration, we aim to push the boundaries of innovation in language technology for Indian languages, ensuring equitable access to AI for all. Together, we look forward to creating open-source solutions that empower communities, enhance digital inclusivity, and drive meaningful impact across academia, industry, and government sectors.”

Professor Mayank Vatsa, Computer Science Department, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jodhpur: “Open AI research is crucial for the advancement of AI, as it fosters collaboration and the free exchange of ideas, accelerating breakthroughs that benefit society at large. Several initiatives at IIT Jodhpur aim to drive inclusive and ethical AI development, with a strong emphasis on responsible AI practices and the creation of robust foundation models focusing on the local context. Additionally, the institute is committed to advancing AI education, equipping the next generation of researchers and practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to shape a better future”.

Balakrishna D. R. (Bali), Executive Vice President, Global Services Head, AI and Industry Verticals, Infosys: “At Infosys, we believe that ensuring AI’s safety and fostering responsible adoption of AI is an industry-wide endeavor that requires collaboration among technology providers, policymakers, academia, and government bodies. AI alliance’s objectives and approach align closely with Infosys Topaz. As we join the alliance, we look forward to collaborating and building a robust ecosystem for AI’s open, inclusive, and responsible adoption and growth.”

Pratik Desai Founder, KissanAI: “At KissanAI, we believe that open innovation is not just a technological approach, it’s a commitment to building a more inclusive and sustainable future for agriculture. The AI Alliance embodies this vision, uniting diverse voices to unlock the transformative power of AI for the benefit of the planet. As a member of this alliance, we are dedicated to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, ensuring that AI advancements in agriculture are accessible, ethical, and empower farmers to embrace sustainable practices for generations to come.”

Tanuj Bhojwani, Head, People+ai: “We’re excited to announce that People+ai has joined the AI Alliance. This group brings together a diverse mix of companies, researchers, and innovators who all share a common goal: making AI technology that’s open, safe, and beneficial for everyone. By working together, we hope to tackle the big challenges in AI development and ensure that the powerful tools we’re creating are used responsibly. We believe that collaboration and sharing knowledge are key to building AI systems that people can trust and use with confidence. As part of this alliance, we’re looking forward to contributing our expertise and learning from others to help shape an AI future that works for all of us.”

Pratyush Kumar, Co-Founder, Sarvam AI: “At Sarvam AI we believe in the value of open innovation in catalysing broad-based availability and adoption of AI technologies. We are excited to be part of the AI Alliance and look forward to working with various members to further the cause of open innovation.”-

Shekar Sivasubramanian, CEO, Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence: “If AI is to impact lives and livelihoods, it is imperative that it be open in many ways. Open data, open code, and open models are just the beginning in terms of creating an ecosystem that brings the benefits of AI to those who need them most. This openness must be present in the creative minds of the AI scientists, in the data collection and refinement strategies used by AI to learn, and in the discipline in rolling out AI at scale in the human ecosystem. Inclusivity, humility, an unbiased approach and willingness to unlearn are all tenets of such an approach. Through the AI alliance, we hope to meaningfully expand the scope of our work as well as contribute to open AI initiatives worldwide.”

Mumbai, 18th September 2024: Motorola, a global leader in mobile technology and innovation announced massive discounts and introduced new color variants for their most popular smartphones across price segments, ahead of the Flipkart The Big Billion Days Sale. As a part of its Hello Colour, Hello AI campaign, Motorola is bringing new colour variants in the motorola edge 50 Pro, motorola edge50 Fusion, motorola edge50 Neo, moto g85 5G, and moto g64 5G specifically for the festive sale period, giving consumers the perfect mix of colours, AI features and disruptive prices this festive season. The products will go on sale starting 26th September, 00 Hrs for early access customers and for all customers starting 27th September during the Big Billion Days sale exclusively on Flipkart. Some devices are already available for consumers to buy at the Big Billion Day prices starting 16th September, while others such as the edge 50 pro and fusion can be pre-booked at the sale price and then redeemed during the Big Billion Day sales starting 26th September.

Starting with the biggest Big Billion Days sale deal offered for a premium smartphone, the motorola edge 50 Pro (12+256GB variant with 125W charger) which retails at 35,999 can be purchased at a net effective price of just Rs. 27,999 (including bank offers), making it the most incredible deal on a premium smartphone this Big Billion Days.

The motorola edge 50 Pro is the world’s 1st AI powered Pro-Grade Camera with color output validated by Pantone™ and will now be available in Caneel Bay colour as well. It features a moto AI powered camera which is also the world’s first true colour camera. Along with the camera, the display is validated by Pantone™ for true to life color output and comes with segment’s widest aperture f/1.4 to allow more light to pass through for better photos in all lights. It flaunts the world’s 1st 1.5K 144Hz true colour display which allows the users to confidently view color and skin tone in the way the content creator intended. The motorola edge 50 Pro comes with segment’s best charging owed to its 125W Turbo power charging, 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse power sharing. On the front, the smartphone boasts the segment’s only 50MP selfie camera with Auto Focus. Additionally, the motorola edge 50 Pro introduced Style Sync, which uses AI to generate wallpapers based on the user’s outfit. Further, the 12GB RAM on the edge 50 pro is ideal for AI features making it future ready for more moto AI features that are planned to come on the device through OTA updates in the near future.

Further strengthening Motorola’s edge portfolio, the motorola edge50 Fusion, will be available at never-before seen effective starting effective price of just Rs. 19,999. The motorola edge50 Fusion is equipped with segment’s best Sony LYTIA LYT-700C camera, a 50 MP camera with all pixel instant focus technology, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), and 4K video recording. Other disruptive and segment first features are its display and design, as the motorola edge 50 Fusion flaunts the segment’s best 144Hz 10-bit pOLED curved display with 1600 nits of peak brightness and Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5 Protection. With regards to design, the smartphone is the segment’s only IP68 rated device and also features Smart Water Touch for seamless running display. All this makes the edge50 Fusion the best smartphone under INR 20K featuring several segment-best and exclusive features, now made available in Forest Green colour along with the existing colour options.

The most durable all-rounder smartphone under INR 25K, the motorola edge50 Neo will be available in 4 Pantone™ trending colours for an effective festive price of just Rs. 22,999 after bank discounts or exchange offers. The motorola edge50 Neo is India’s lightest IP68 MIL-810H Military Grade Certified smartphone while being the segment’s lightest at 171g and just 8.1mm thin. The device is also IP68 rated and has passed through 16 rigid MIL-STD 810H Military Grade tests, allowing this most durable all-rounder phone to withstand the toughest conditions. The design is minimalistic with segment’s best PPI (460ppi) LTPO flat screen display with minimum bezels and 3000 nits of peak brightness. Moreover, the motorola edge50 Neo captures breathtaking photos with the segment’s most advanced Sony sensor LYTIA 700C camera with segment’s best AI features powered by moto ai and google Photos AI features. It also features segment’s only 10MP telephoto camera with 30X AI super zoom and 3X optical zoom.

Moving to the g series devices, Motorola is offering a new Viva Magenta colour variant on its most popular 5g smartphone under 20k- the moto g85 5G. It is the first moto g series device with a 3D curved endless edge display and has segment’s best Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. It also offers segment’s leading, shake free 50MP OIS – Sony LYTIA ™ 600 Camera for incredible pictures and videos in any light and captures sharper more vibrant photos owed to Quad Pixel technology for 4x better low-light sensitivity. Inter device connectivity has also been made easy and seamless with the inclusion of Smart Connect which comes out of the box and ensures effortless sharing of files, streaming phone apps and more across phone, PC, and tablet with just a swipe. The moto g85 5G will be available in two variants 8+128 GB and 12+256 GB at net effective prices of just Rs. 15,999 and Rs. 17,999.

The moto g64 5G will be available in a new Berry Red colour at a disruptive price of just Rs. 13,999 becoming most powerful 5G smartphone under 15K. The moto g64 5G offers best in the segment battery life with a 6000mAh battery which allows heavy usage for hours on end. It also charges up fast with TurboPower™ 33W charger which allows for extended hours of video chatting, gaming, and binge-watching. Another segment best feature is its 12GB + 256GB RAM ROM setup, which can offers additional RAM boost of up to 24GB which is again the highest in the segment. Performance is also not an issue owed to the moto g64 5G carrying the world’s 1st MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Processor, a powerful octa-core processor offering frequencies up to 2.5GHz.

In addition to the above, the affordable moto g45 5G – with Snapdragon 6s Gen 3- the segment’s fastest 5G processor, a 120Hz display, Pantone curated colours and a premium vegan leather design will be available in 4+128GB and 8+128GB variants at an effective price of just Rs. 9,999* 10,999 and 10,999* respectively.

Further, the motorola edge 50 which comes with MIL-810H Military grade protection, Curved 144Hz pOLED display, IP68 Underwater protection and a host of moto AI features will be available at a disruptive starting price of just 24,999*.

Details of all the offers and discounts offered by Motorola on their complete smartphone range during the Big Billion Days sale are mentioned in the attached word document.

Mumbai, 18 September 2024: Jindal India Renewable Energy, a part of the BC Jindal Group, announced its foray into the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The company plans to build 1 GWh battery pack assembly line with LFP chemistry by 2025 and will foray into battery cell manufacturing with 5 GWh capacity by 2027.

To achieve this, the company will be entering into a Technology Collaboration with a world-class technology provider to achieve highest quality standards. This move aligns with India’s efforts to strengthen its position as one of the top renewable energy players in the world.

Currently, the sector is witnessing rapid growth due to policy emphasis on renewables to enable the Government’s push towards a greener future BESS as a technology enables grid stability, efficient storage and most importantly, addresses the issue of power supply during peak periods and to fulfil the FDRE / RTC demand, and is expected to power India’s renewable energy aspirations. The Indian BESS market is expected to grow at an impressive CAGR of 11.41 pct till 2032, underscoring the significant opportunities that this sector presents.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Punit Gupta, Director, Jindal India Renewable Energy said, “Jindal India Renewable Energy is proud to step in and meet the growing demand for India’s energy storage solutions. By investing in battery energy storage systems, we are expanding our portfolio as well as contributing to grid stability and deeper integration of renewable sources.”

This announcement comes in the backdrop of Jindal India Renewable Energy (JIRE) aiming to generate 5 GW of power from solar, wind, hybrid and FDRE modes. Along with this, going forward JIRE will also manufacture PV Cells and Modules to tap into the solar demand.

Jindal India Renewable Energy operates under the BC Jindal Group, founded in 1952 by Shri B.C. Jindal. Originally a steel pipe and fittings manufacturer, the group has grown into one of India’s leading conglomerates with a significant presence in the power sector. JIRE’s initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to energy diversification. With a focus on environmental well-being at the core of its inception, BC Jindal Group’s commitment extends beyond compliance to a genuine dedication to preserving the environment for future generations.