College Vidya, a leading online platform enabling students to make informed career and course decisions, has conducted an in-depth study to analyze the growth and trends in enrollment for AI and data science courses over recent years. The findings underscore the surging demand for these technical programs, driven by increasing professional aspirations and industry needs.

The study reveals a significant quarter-over-quarter enrollment growth in AI and data science courses, with an average increase of 25-30% for programs such as Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) and Master of Computer Applications (MCA), both offering specializations in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science. Notably, the Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program with a specialization in Generative AI witnessed an unprecedented 30% growth in 2024, reflecting the burgeoning interest in cutting-edge technologies.

Specializations such as Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Data Science & Data Analytics, and Cloud Computing continue to gain popularity among learners enrolled in BCA and MCA programs. Similarly, Cyber Security has emerged as another preferred field for individuals seeking advanced technical expertise. The DBA program’s focus on Generative AI has particularly captured the attention of professionals aiming for leadership roles in the tech industry.

The study highlights the changing demographics of students enrolling in these programs. Online MCA programs are particularly popular among working professionals with 1-2 years of experience who are keen to upskill themselves. On the other hand, the Online DBA program appeals to seasoned professionals with 5-6 years of experience, especially those aspiring to CTO and other leadership positions. Interestingly, some students with prior graduation degrees are also opting for Online BCA programs, driven by a strong interest in tech-sector jobs.

In terms of geographic distribution, the study notes that learners enrolling in Online DBA programs predominantly hail from South Indian states. Meanwhile, BCA and MCA programs attract students from Tier I, Tier II, and Tier III cities across India, with Maharashtra, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and West Bengal being prominent contributors. The demand for Online BCA and MCA programs can be gauged by their ranking among the top three trending courses in 2024. This further reinforces the relevance and appeal of these programs in addressing the evolving needs of learners and the tech industry.

Rohit Gupta, COO of College Vidya, highlighted the transformative impact of these findings, stating, “I believe the rising demand for AI and Data Science courses is a clear indication of how education is transforming to meet the demands of a digital-first economy. Learners today are focused on acquiring skills that not only enhance their individual capabilities but also contribute to larger technological advancements and industrial growth. At College Vidya, we are committed to empowering individuals with access to quality education that equips them to innovate, lead, and drive meaningful change.”

The findings also indicate a rising trend in placement success among AI and Data Science graduates, with learners securing roles in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Healthcare Management, and Marketing. The growing completion rates for these programs, ranging from three to twelve months, further reflect the dedication of learners to position themselves for impactful careers.

Gurugram, 29th January 2025– Bizloan, a non-banking finance company (NBFC) dedicated to providing credit solutions for small businesses, has successfully raised INR 35 Crores in Series A funding. The investment round was led by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation and BLinC Invest. Resurgent India acted as an advisor to Bizloan for this round.

This funding will enable Bizloan to expand its reach in underserved markets, enhance its suite of loan products, and invest in cutting-edge technology to streamline its lending operations. The company’s goal is to empower 2,500+ micro and nano enterprises in the next 12 months, particularly in regions with limited access to traditional financing options. Bizloan has already made a notable impact in the MSME sector, disbursing approximately INR 774 crore in loans across 26 branches. To date, Bizloan has provided financial support to more than 3,000 entrepreneurs in key regions, including Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, NCR, Karnataka, and Rajasthan.

Rahul Jain, Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder of Bizloan Private Limited stated, “The current round of investment shall help the Company enter the next phase of fast-paced growth by expanding its footprint in BharatThis funding round will also enable us to fulfill our objective of simplifying credit for small businesses, which remain underserved, particularly in smaller towns and cities. We are actively investing in technology as a driver for better operational efficiency. The pedigree of investors on board shall also help us to develop and nurture sustainable talent which will further help us achieve the vision of our Company.”

Amit Ratanpal, Founder and Managing Director, BLinC Invest commented on this partnership, “Indian Tier II and Tier III cities are witnessing a high growth rate and increasing urbanization, creating a high need for micro-entrepreneurs to expand their business- resulting in a monumental credit gap. Our partnership with the Bizloan Team aims to support these entrepreneurs in powering the Bharat growth engine with their technology-focused and innovative underwriting approach.”

Rakesh Goyal, Director, of Michael & Susan Dell Foundation said, “Supporting small businesses is crucial for economic growth, but their access to formal credit remains limited. This funding marks a crucial step forward in our mission to empower micro and nano enterprises, providing them with the capital and financial tools they need to fuel business growth, increase household incomes, and create employment opportunities.”

Leveraging robust cashflow underwriting capabilities and innovative credit assessment models, Bizloan is unlocking new avenues for sustainable growth in India’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Known for its innovative approach to credit assessment, Bizloan employs the ABC (Asset, Behaviour, Cashflow) methodology to evaluate borrowers, most of whom come from informal income backgrounds or are new to credit. With this funding boost, Bizloan is poised to scale its operations, introduce new financial products, and empower even more small businesses across India, driving growth in the nation’s dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The upcoming tracks of &TV shows Bheema, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai will entertain the audience and keep them glued to the screens. Talking about &TV’s Bheema track, Amit Bhardwaj, who plays Mewa in the show, says, “Kailasha Bua sends people from the asylum to take Dhaniya while Bheema is at school. Sensing something is wrong, Bheema rushes to rescue her in time. Meanwhile, Phulmatiya teams up with Kailasha Bua to frame Dhaniya, planning to send her away. However, Bheema’s aunt, Babita, arrives just in time to save Dhaniya. Bheema thanks Babita for her help.”

About &TV’s Happu Ki Ultan Paltan’s upcoming track, Yogesh Tripathi, who portrays Happu Singh, shares, “Happu (Yogesh Tripathi) dreams that he has been promoted. The next morning, he shares this dream with his family, but Malaika (Sonal Panwar) makes fun of it. Happu then discusses this with Beni (Vishwanath Chatterjee), who suggests an idea: create your case and solve it; this will ensure your promotion. Happu likes the idea and, with Beni’s help, sneaks into the Commissioner’s house and steals his wife’s necklace. However, just then, Happu receives a call from a blackmailer who says he has recorded a video of Happu stealing the necklace. Happu has no choice but to follow the blackmailer’s instructions, which creates tension and arguments in his family.” About &TV’s Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai’s upcoming track, Shubhangi Atre, who plays Angoori Bhabhi, shares, “Anita (Vidisha Srivastava) comes up with the idea of starting a winter clothing business. Tiwari (Rohitashv Gour) shows interest and agrees to invest in the business. It is decided that Vibhuti (Aasif Sheikh) and Chacha (Anup Upadhyay) will manage the stall. Initially, Vibhuti hesitates but eventually agrees. The next day, when the stock of winter clothes arrives, Vibhuti suggests that Chacha wear a trench coat to scare Angoori Bhabhi (ShuhangiAtre). He plans to intervene, scold at Chacha, and chase him away to appear heroic. Chacha follows the plan and scares Angoori by wearing a trench coat. However, Angoori gets so frightened that she is reminded of a childhood trauma. When Angoori regains consciousness, she starts tearing everyone’s winter clothes and attacks anyone wearing warm clothes. Everyone tries to figure out what has caused Angoori’s sudden change in behavior and begins avoiding her out of fear. The situation escalates to the point where the police announce that no one should pass through Angoori Bhabhi’s lane, and if anyone does, the police will not be held responsible. Meanwhile, a client comes to meet Anita, and Tiwari sneaks him into her house. However, Angoori sees them and ends up beating both the client and Tiwari mercilessly.”

Noida, India, January 29, 2025: AI-powered customer experience and business process solutions provider, TELUS Digital India, is further elevating its workspaces to reflect the changing preferences of today’s employees. The company is known for having some of the most inspiring sites in the industry, and designs them intentionally, keeping in mind the evolving needs of its young workforce, particularly millennials and Gen Z employees.

TELUS Digital India’s flexible spaces encourage collaboration and creativity, and also prioritize mental and emotional wellbeing, with dedicated areas for relaxation and self-care. The layouts of the sites aren’t conventional; they have been designed as spaces that inspire and encourage human connection.

The company embraces the philosophy, “inspired spaces create inspired people”. In line with this belief, TELUS Digital has quirky environments that radiate positivity and enhance productivity.

TELUS Digital India’s themed meeting rooms transform brainstorming sessions into engaging, creative experiences. Just imagine having a team meeting in the Batcave, or getting coaching from your leader in a garden setting. These spaces also provide employees with areas to socialize and unwind. There are also game rooms equipped with billiard tables, gaming consoles, and board games, providing spaces to unwind, bond, and relax. Additionally, café-style dining areas with free flowing coffee offer a warm, informal setting where employees can come together and feel at home.

Workstations for each team member are also equipped with ergonomic office chairs, and some areas are furnished with standing desks. This provides a health-oriented option for those who are looking to minimize the time they spend sitting down during their work hours.

Through continuous efforts to improve accessibility and inclusion, TELUS Digital India ensures that every employee feels welcome and at home. Gender neutral restrooms are available in all of their offices, and their spaces are designed with accessibility in mind, offering features such as wheelchair-friendly entrances, adjustable workstations, and accessible restrooms. The company also prioritizes diversity, creating a supportive environment where individuals from all backgrounds and abilities are empowered to thrive.

TELUS Digital India also provides access to dedicated learning spaces, such as libraries with ample resources, encouraging lifelong learning, and ensuring employees can undertake personal and professional growth. Additionally, the company has launched a digital library with more than 500 books in multiple languages for on-site, hybrid and remote employees, further supporting the company’s commitment to learning and development for all.

In addition to the many collaboration and learning spaces, employees at TELUS Digital India also have access to in-house gyms and holistic wellness programs. These initiatives are designed to support employees’ physical and mental well-being.

TELUS Digital India Facilities Director, J Shankar, shares, “‘Fun and belonging at work’ are no longer unrealistic expectations; they are key elements in creating a positive, healthy and inclusive workplace where employees can thrive and succeed. Having different work styles among our team members means we must design offices that are more than just spaces — they are destinations that inspire collaboration, creativity, and a sense of belonging. The overall employee experience is essential, making inclusive design a top priority. Workplaces can no longer adopt a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, we need to create environments where individuals from all backgrounds feel comfortable, empowered, and equipped to do their best work.”

Chandigarh, January 29, 2024: The Board of Directors of Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Limited (Mahindra Finance), a leading provider of financial services in Emerging India, at its meeting held today, announced the unaudited financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 (Q3FY25).

Standalone:

Key Points:

•  AUM (Business assets): ₹ 1,15,126 crores v/s ₹ 97,048 crores, YoY 19%á
•  Disbursement: ₹ 16,467 crores v/s ₹ 15,436 crores, YoY 7%á ; YoY 4% á for 9M FY25
• Total Income: ₹ 4,144 crores v/s ₹ 3,490 crores, YoY 19% á ; YoY 20% á for 9M FY25
•  While Market Share in Tractors was stable there was stiff competition in Passenger Vehicle, CV, and Used vehicle business
•  Asset quality: GS2+GS3 @ 10.2%. Stage-3 @3.9%. Credit Cost: 0.0% v/s 1.2% (Q3FY24)
•  Capital Adequacy healthy at 17.8%, Tier-1 Capital @ 15.1%. Provision coverage on Stage 3 loans is prudent at 50.1%. Total liquidity buffer comfortable at ₹ 9,322 crores

Operations: Q3 FY25

The company leveraged the buoyancy of the festive season demand in Q3 with disbursements of Rs. 16,467 crore reflecting a YoY growth of 7%. The disbursement for the first nine months stands at approximately Rs. 42,370 crore, which is 4% over the previous year. The gross assets under management increased by 19% compared to the previous year, reaching Rs. 1,15,126 crore.

The collection efficiency remained stable at 95%, consistent with the same quarter of the previous year. With a continued focus on maintaining underwriting standards and addressing early-stage delinquencies, asset quality remained steady. Stage 3 assets stood at 3.9%, versus 4.0% as of December 31, 2023, while Stage 2 assets were at 6.3%, compared to 6.0% on the same date. The company continued to maintain a comfortable liquidity position on its balance sheet, with a liquidity chest of over Rs. 9,322 crore.

CORE

Wheels Business:

During the third quarter of the year, the Company saw 5% YoY growth in disbursements for Wheels, while business assets grew by 18% YoY. Tractor financing segment disbursements grew by 24% YoY in Q3FY25. Mahindra Finance continues to be a leader in the tractor-financing segment and remains the top five NBFCs for financing three-wheelers, passenger vehicles (PVs), Used passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), and small commercial vehicles (SCVs).

During the quarter, the company stabilized the operating model changes brought about in the previous quarter across the Centralized processing center (CPC), and the new retail branch structure. These changes will drive improvements on efficiency, standardization, controls, customer service, and cross-sell in the future.

NEW ENGINES

The company continues to expand into new categories beyond vehicle financing through a focus on SME lending, leasing, insurance, payments, and mortgages. The company is driving these new engines by broadening its product offering, improving its technology stack, strategic partnerships, data analytics, and equipping its workforce to meet customer requirements. The non-vehicle finance portfolio grew by 27% over the past year.

SME:

The company recognizes the growth potential within the MSME sector in India, with specific focus on the micro and small enterprises segment. During the quarter, this segment delivered a Disbursement growth of 60% YoY (9MFY25 YoY growth: 60%), which drove asset book expansion by 20% on a YoY basis and was at ₹ 5,464 crore as of December 31, 2024. The growth is driven through its secured product offering, Loan against property (LAP) which now

accounts for 42% of the overall SME assets. Asset quality remains strong, with stage-3 assets at 1.10% as of December end.

Leasing:

Leasing disbursement grew 51% YoY in Q3FY25 & 36% YoY in FY25 YTD. The company is working to increase customer engagement through dedicated Account Managers, customized portal & cross-sell. The business is also focusing on augmenting B2C subscription business with increased dealer & OEM tie-ups, and curated offerings for self-employed, professionals & salaried employees.

Insurance:

The company has increased its number of partners to nine leading insurance providers across life, non-life, and health categories with the objective of offering comprehensive insurance offering solutions to customers. The company continues to evaluate partnerships with Insurtech’s to improve the customer onboarding experience. As part of its commitment to be a responsible financial services provider, the company is training its employees as per regulatory guidelines on insurance cover selling.

Mortgage:

The company is in investment mode, and is currently focused on recruitment, infrastructure build out, and technology setup towards building up its mortgage capabilities.

Partnerships, Payments, and Fixed Deposits (FD):

During the quarter, the company inked a co-branded credit card partnership with RBL bank and was granted a TPAP license that will allow it to offer payment solutions to its customers. Mahindra Finance is one of the few deposits taking NBFCs and the company’s FDs are an attractive investment avenue, with an AAA rating from both CRISIL and India Ratings, reflecting the highest safety standards. The company has increased the contribution of FDs in its total borrowings from 8.6% on September 2024, to 9.2% on December 2024.

Mahindra Finance is advancing its digital transformation capabilities and integrating these technologies into its operations to enhance customer experiences, streamline loan processing, and reduce turnaround times. New and upgraded tech & digital solutions across loan journeys are being adopted which aims to deliver superior and seamless experience to customers, channel partners and employees.

Recognitions

Mahindra Finance received multiple recognitions during the quarter. The company was named among the best workplaces in the categories of ‘Top Rated Large Company’ and ‘Top Rated Financial Services Company’ at the AmbitionBox Employee Choice Awards 2024. It also won the ‘Best Learning & Development Program of the Year – NBFC/HFC/MFI’ for its Transformational Leadership Development Program at the ETBFSI Exceller Awards 2024. Additionally, it was awarded ‘Best NBFC in Talent & Workforce’ at the Business Today Banking and Economy Summit 2025.

Mumbai, January 29, 2025: The Maharashtra Defence and Aerospace Venture Fund (MDAVF), a SEBI-registered Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) managed by IDBI Capital Markets & Securities Limited (ICMS), has emerged as a pivotal driver of India’s defence, aerospace, and allied sectors. Since its inception, MDAVF has committed an impressive  across 27 MSMEs, focusing on critical areas such as missile systems, aerospace technologies, naval systems, and electronic warfare.

To date, MDAVF has invested approximately ₹406 crore in 22 MSMEs. The fund has successfully executed full and partial exits from 12 companies, realizing divestment proceeds of around ₹281 crore and achieving a strong Internal Rate of Return that highlights the fund’s disciplined and strategic approach to value creation.

Mr. Amey Belorkar, Fund Manager – Maharashtra Defence and Aerospace Venture Fund (MDAVF), IDBI Capital Markets & Securities Ltd., stated, “MDAVF is committed to supporting India’s vision of self-reliance in defence and aerospace by channelizing strategic investments into high-potential ventures. We are dedicated to fostering technological breakthroughs that not only strengthen national security but also enhance indigenous capabilities. By backing innovative and sustainable growth in critical sectors, MDAVF is proud to contribute to India’s defence ecosystem and the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

MDAVF’s investments have led to the creation of over 3,000 direct jobs and an estimated 10,000-15,000 indirect jobs across Maharashtra. By nurturing a robust ecosystem for defence and aerospace within the state, the fund has catalysed skill development, indigenization, and technological advancement in critical defence manufacturing sectors. Notably, 13 of the 27 MDAVF-backed companies are led by women promoters and entrepreneurs, actively driving innovation and growth in the defence and aerospace industry. This highlights MDAVF’s unwavering commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and empowering women within India’s defence ecosystem.

The fund’s investments align seamlessly with the government’s visionary ‘Make in India’ initiative, prioritizing the development of indigenous capabilities in defence production. Sectors such as nuclear solutions, UAV automation, marine technologies, and aerospace advancements have witnessed remarkable progress, positioning India as a global leader in cutting-edge defence manufacturing. MDAVF is poised to leverage emerging opportunities in advanced technologies and manufacturing, providing a resilient platform for sustainable growth, innovation, and self-reliance.

Managed by IDBI Capital Markets & Securities Limited, MDAVF continues to play a transformative role in driving indigenous innovation, fostering self-reliance, and enhancing India’s global competitiveness in the defence and aerospace sectors.

Mumbai, 29th January 2025: Alliance, one of the leading tire brands in the off-highway tire segment from the Yokohama-ATG group is celebrating 70 successful years in the industry. To commemorate the special occasion, the brand has launched the campaign “Always by Your Side” for customers and partners across the globe. The campaign highlights the strong bond that Alliance has with its customers and focuses on how multiple generations of farmers have shown their trust in the products and have chosen it as their reliable partner who stands by their side through thick and thin.

Alliance, backed by a rich legacy coupled with continuous innovations and advanced research, is an industry leader and the go-to choice for customers in the agricultural and forestry segments. Over three decades of expertise in radial technology and a global presence in more than 120 countries, Alliance remains at the forefront, driving trust, excellence, and commitment in the industry.

Alliance offers a comprehensive portfolio of tires with world-class technologies like Agriflex Technology, SLT Technology, and ELITE Technology. The brand also offers an extensive range of radial, bias, and solid tires that are specifically engineered for sectors such as construction, material handling, lawn garden, and turf, etc.

Angelo Noronha, President & CEO – Yokohama-ATG, commented, “We are extremely happy to celebrate 70 glorious years of Alliance in the off-highway tire segment and are thrilled to launch the “Always by Your Side” campaign globally. It honors the strong ‘alliances’ we have built and nurtured with our trusted customers and partners over the years”

“The campaign also talks about the quality, excellence, and commitment that the Alliance brand offers to its customers. Our extensive on-ground service teams worldwide play a crucial role in keeping this commitment, ensuring we are always there to offer support” added Noronha.

Alliance’s – ‘Always by Your Side’ campaign will run through 2025, and as part of this exercise, the brand plans to felicitate top customers and partners globally. The campaign also aims to reinforce Alliance’s position as a trustworthy and dependable brand that is always ready to deliver custom-made solutions for its customers and partners.

Ahmedabad, 27 January 2025: ACC Limited, the cement and building materials company of the diversified Adani Portfolio today announced a steady financial performance during the third quarter and nine months (9M) of FY’25 ended December 31, 2024. The performance comes on the back of volume growth, cost optimization, and improved efficiency parameters.

Mr. Ajay Kapur, Whole Time Director & CEO, ACC Ltd, said, “Our Q3 results demonstrate our strategic focus on driving growth through higher volumes, cost optimization, and enhanced efficiencies. With strong demand for our premium cement products and our commitment to excellence on all parameters in line with our ESG leadership, we are leveraging innovation and sustainability to maintain our competitive edge and maximize stakeholder value. We are well-poised to achieve sustained profitability and capitalize on our strategic vision set forth for our business.”

Operational Highlights

•  The engines of efficiency drive, cost initiative, and investments to overhaul all plants have delivered phenomenal results on overall cost reduction and volume improvements.
•  All business KPIs like volumes, efficiencies, cost, and capex have shown healthy improvements, reinforcing the cost leadership journey.
•  Volume increased by 21% YoY supported by an increase in trade volumes and higher premium product volumes (11% YoY), ensuring market leadership.
•  Optimised Fuel Basket, with the use of low-cost imported petcoke improved linkage and captive coal consumption, and synergies with Group companies have resulted in a 10% reduction in Kiln fuel cost Rs. 1.86 to Rs. 1.68 per ’000 Kcal.
•  Thermal value reduced from 739 kCal to 732 kCal, expect further improvement in coming quarters.
•  Logistics costs reduced by 9% @Rs 939/ton, driven by efficiency improvement journey (Secondary lead reducing by 3 Km, direct dispatch up by 7 pp @51%). Through various freight negotiation initiatives, road PTPK has decreased by 6% YOY. This is going to be further reduced with the rollout of initiatives viz. wheeler rationalizations, BCFC rakes, etc.

Financial Highlights

•  Highest ever revenue in Q3 Series over last 5 years at Rs. 5,927 Cr, driven by higher trade sales volume (up by 11%) and premium product as % of trade sales at 32%.
•  Higher volume along with improved operational parameters resulted in growth in all business parameters.
•  Operating EBITDA at Rs. 1,116 Cr, EBITDA margin at 18.8%.
•  Cash & Cash equivalent at Rs. 2,526 Cr, with highest ever Net Worth at Rs. 17,816 Cr, up by Rs. 1,091 Cr during the current quarter
•  EPS (Diluted) at Rs. 58.0 during the quarter.

ESG Updates

•  200 MW Solar Power at Khavda started, will lead to reduction in power cost in upcoming quarters.
•  Committed to Net Zero by 2050, with ACC and Ambuja Cements being the only 2 cement companies in India undergoing Net Zero target validation from SBTi.
•  Became member of United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), a global initiative to implement universal sustainability principles.
•  Undertaken noteworthy initiatives on renewable power, water conservation, circular economy, TSR, tree plantation along with high share of blended cement in product mix.
• Created societal value for over 1.22 lakhs people by contributing to fields like healthcare, education, employment, and sustainable livelihoods.
•  Range of innovative products, including ACC ECOMaxX, ACC AEROMaxX, and ACC Coolcrete, continues to expand, adding to the wide array of eco-friendly options.

Branding and Technical Services

•  Partnered with the Gujarat Giants in Pro Kabaddi League Season 11, one of India’s premier sports leagues.
•  ACC Certified Technology implemented at 37,214 customer sites, making their homes stronger.
•  Trained 10,300+ Contractors under various skill upgradation workshops with 3,300+ plant visits, aimed at deeper understanding of our products.
•  Launched thematic Ad films for Durga Puja and Diwali reflecting the festive fervour of our customers and partners.
•  Various knowledge sharing technical events conducted for 6,300+ construction professionals.

Digitalisation

•  Launched ‘RewardsConnect’, a rewards hub loyalty portal, enabling pan-India online reward point redemption for contractors.
•  Deployed OT Security Monitoring solution for real-time monitoring of OT systems strengthening cybersecurity.
•  Completed Asia’s largest legacy SAP upgrade to Suite on HANA.
•  Implemented Electronic Proof of Delivery system, improving invoicing efficiency and reducing processing/documentation cost.

Outlook

The cement sector experienced modest growth of 1.5-2% during H1 FY’25. Looking ahead, cement demand is expected to rebound in Q4 FY’25 as construction activity accelerates in the infrastructure and housing segments. The pro-infra and housing Budget 2025, along with increased government spending on infrastructure and construction activities, is anticipated to further support this growth. Cement demand is projected to grow in the range of 4-5% for FY’25.

Achievements

•  Gold at the Arogya World Healthy Workplace Awards 2024.
•  IconSWM-CE Excellence Award 2024 for excellence in co-processing and AFR.

Mumbai, 29^th January 2025: Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) continues its commitment to creating a safer road environment by organizing an engaging ‘Kids Carnival’ focused on road safety education. The event, aimed at empowering young minds with essential traffic safety knowledge, aligns with Honda’s global vision of achieving zero traffic collision fatalities by 2050. HMSI has taken significant steps towards fostering road safety awareness, while aligning with the Government of India’s goal of reducing road fatalities by half by 2030.

The Kids’ Carnival was organized at HMSI’s all four plants across India – Tapukara (Rajasthan), Vithalapur (Gujarat), Narsapura (Karnata) and its culmination at the company’s Global Resource Factory in IMT Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana. It featured interactive and fun-filled activities designed to educate children about the importance of road safety. From traffic rules and road signs to the significance of responsible behaviour on roads, it introduced young participants to these vital concepts in an engaging manner.

The Kids Carnival activity brought together over 1100 students and teachers from government and primary schools, aiming to promote a culture of road safety among young minds. Students from 5^th to 6^th standards accompanied by their teachers, actively participated in interactive activities designed to educate and empower them as road safety ambassadors.

HMSI’s road safety education program is built upon scientifically devised learning modules that make learning fun yet informative. The event featured a range of engaging activities, including:

• Road Safety Skit: Students performed specially curated skits covering various aspects of road safety, making the learning process interactive and relatable.
• Road Safety Videos: Specially designed movies were showcased to encourage a positive mindset towards safe road usage among children.
• Interactive Games: Fun-filled activities were organized to reinforce road safety concepts in an enjoyable and memorable manner.

HMSI remains dedicated to spreading road safety awareness to all sections of society, from school children to corporate employees and communities at large. With a skilled team of safety instructors, HMSI conducts daily road safety education programs at its 10 adopted Traffic Training Parks (TTP) and 6 Safety Driving Education Centers (SDEC) across India. To date, the initiative has reached over 90 lakh Indians.

Through its National Road Safety Awareness Program, HMSI provides:

1. Scientifically Devised Learning Modules: Covering essential topics such as road signs, driver responsibilities, riding gear, and safe riding etiquettes.
2. Practical Learning: Virtual riding simulators to help participants experience over 100 possible on-road dangers before actual riding.
3. Interactive Training: “Kiken Yosoku Training” (KYT) to enhance sensitivity to road hazards and encourage safe driving behavior.
4. Skill Enhancement for Existing Riders: Slow riding activities and narrow plank riding exercises to hone skills for experienced riders.

HMSI’s efforts reflect its mission to be a company that society values and supports, striving to build a safer and more responsible future generation. Through innovative and engaging road safety programs, HMSI continues to make a lasting impact across various segments of society.

HMSI also recently launched its innovative digital road safety learning platform, E-Gurukul, which offers training modules tailored for three specific age groups from 5 years till 18 years ensuring a comprehensive approach towards road safety. Currently the modules are available in multiple languages like Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and English—to ensure inclusivity and regional relevance and E-Gurukul can be accessed at egurukul.honda.hmsi.in. The platform supports live streaming or downloading, and multilingual modules to ensure accessibility across diverse regions. The launch of E-Gurukul is part of HMSI’s ongoing efforts to empower children, educators, and dealers to champion safe road practices. The initiative will expand to cover schools in every state, promoting road safety education tailored to different age groups.

Ahmedabad – 29th January 2025 – Ishan Technologies, a leader in ICT services with a pan-India presence and a member of Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN), has announced the launch of its Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) solution, Ishan CXConnect, in collaboration with Oracle. This new platform is set to elevate customer service experiences while maintaining secure communications by providing businesses with scalable, cloud-based contact center solutions. Ishan CXConnect is powered by Oracle Enterprise Session Border Controller (E-SBC), offering streamlined, high-quality voice communications with superior network security.

As the CCaaS sector gains momentum in India, Ishan Technologies has customised the service to address the evolving needs of modern businesses. With features such as the “Click to Call” functionality, customers can connect with mobile app-based customer care, enhancing the overall user experience. Hosted on Ishan’s Cloud, the service components are built with resilient architecture ensuring the highest uptimes.

With the integration of Oracle’s E-SBC, Ishan CXConnect delivers advanced voice capabilities alongside Ishan Technologies’ managed services, offering uptime and resiliency. Ishan Technologies maintains a managed solution that remains proprietary. This integration allows for CRM, reporting solutions, and more, handled by the company’s dedicated Professional Services (PS) team. The solution is bundled with regulatory compliance solutions which include network, telephony plans, applications, and support services, all hosted in Ishan’s own data centers in Mumbai and Gandhinagar, with potential expansion to Chennai based on customer needs.

“India is rapidly emerging as a hub for CCaaS solutions, driven by growing demand for enhanced customer engagement. Ishan CXConnect powered by Oracle’s E-SBC will help allow businesses to reduce overhead costs, streamline operations, and focus on their core competencies with better communications protection against cyberthreats,” said Pinkesh Kotecha, Chairman and Managing Director, Ishan Technologies. “This platform is a 360-degree solution that delivers streamlined, secure, and future-ready communications for our customers.”

“We are excited to partner with Ishan Technologies to bring Ishan CXConnect to the market,” said Payam Sharifi, senior vice president, worldwide sales, Oracle Communications. “The combination of the robust network security and voice capabilities in Oracle’s E-SBC, paired with Ishan’s expertise in cloud and contact center management, creates a powerful solution for enterprises. Together, we will help evolving businesses optimize their customer interactions, while maintaining the highest standards of security and performance.”