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Rs. 42 Lakh Awarded to Winners of iCreate EVangelise ’23 to Accelerate EV Innovations Across India

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EVangelise ’23: Over 2,700 entries from across 20 States & UTs

12 Winners and promising innovators receive Rs. 42 lakhs in cash prizes

Industry and Thought leaders in the EV ecosystem converge at the iCreate campus

Giving EV sub-assembly manufacturing an impetus towards the Atma Nirbhar Bharat vision

iCreate (International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology), Indias leading tech-innovation-based start-up incubator, announced the winners of the EVangelise ’23, the third edition of India’s largest EV innovation challenge. Top positions were awarded to innovators based on technical evaluation, market relevance, and implementation strategies. Winners in the below TRL 5 categories received total cash prizes of Rs. 15 lakhs, and those in the TRL 5 & above category received cash prizes of Rs. 25 lakhs.

iCreate Team

With over 2,700 entries from every corner of India, EVangelise ’23 received about 138% more applications than the previous year’s contest-from students, individual innovators, researchers, and start-ups in the areas of battery safety and EV infrastructure. This is a testament to the growing EV technology community and iCreate EVangelise’s role in accelerating innovation.

The aim of EVangelise ’23 has been to help towards India’s 2030 vision of EVs representing 80% of all two- and three-wheeler sales. EVangelise’23 is not just about identifying groundbreaking innovations in EV technology from all corners of India but also connecting them with industry partners, providing incubation support, and access to capital. At EVangelise 23 Finale, iCreate also revealed the winners of the inaugural RISC-V challenge, honouring outstanding applications tailored for EVs from 41 impressive entries. This contest highlighted participants dedication to harnessing RISC-V architecture for innovative EV solutions. iCreate is committed to leading innovation in RISC-V and semiconductor technology, given their crucial role in shaping the future of electric vehicles.

Congratulating the EVangelise ’23 winners, Avinash Punekar, CEO of iCreate, said, “After two successful editions, EVangelise ’23 has evolved into the most awaited largest EV innovation challenge in India, with over 2,700 entries. Many of these innovators will play a key role in accelerating the growth of India’s EV industry. The overwhelming support for EVangelise ’23 from industry stalwarts underscores the capability of Indian innovators to address the urgent issues faced by the global EV industry. At iCreate, we take immense pride in assisting the innovators with their journey and aiding India’s rise as a powerhouse in the EV domain. I extend my hearty congratulations to the winners of EVangelise ’23 and look forward to providing them with every support needed to make them market leaders.”

In the TRL 5 & above category, the first-place holder, Vijigi Energy Private Limited, a Gujarat-based startup an Integrated Electrical and Controls Platform for ZEV, Vehicle Control Module, Thermal Management Module, Energy Storage Control Module, Body Control Module, and a Central Gateway. Auklr Technologies Private Limited, a Bangalore-based startup, won second place for their solution specialising in Android-based EV instrument clusters and transforming analog dashboards into feature-rich centres for enhanced safety. Real-time data includes speed, battery levels, navigation, and crash detection, optimising driver awareness. The third place was taken by Blaer Motors, a Chennai-based startup, for developing a smart 500W Motor Controller Unit and a 500W Brushed DC Motor Controller Unit for E-bikes and mopeds.

Winners of iCreate EVangelise 23

EVangelise ’23 finale saw distinguished speakers and industry leaders share insights and learnings with the innovators. Amongst these were Mr. Manish Manek, Chief VLE, MG Motors India; Mr. Christian Appel, Head of Vehicle Platform, Nikola Motor Company; Dr. Preeti Banzal, Scientist G at the Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India; Mr. Sudhir Naik, Founder e-infochips; Mr. Sriram Lakshminarayanan, President & Chief Technology Officer, Tata Technologies; George Paul, Director Corporate Strategy and Government Relations, Sahasra Group; Dr. UK Choudhury, former ED R&D, BHEL; Mr. Shailesh Unnithan, GM, SBI; Mr. Mihir Joshi, President & CEO, GVFL and Dr. Rafal Lukasik, Director, Department of International Cooperation, Lukasiewicz Research Network, Poland. Mr. Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Honble Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Electronics and Information Technology, was the Guest of Honour.

Commenting on the achievement, Meet Kalola, Founder of Vijigi Energy Private Limited and the winner of EVangelise ’23 said, “We are overwhelmed to be chosen as the Winner of EVangelise ’23. EVangelise ’23 gave us a platform where we were able to showcase our innovation and this recognition motivates us to continue pioneering innovation solutions in the EV industry. Our Integrated Electrical and Controls Platform, designed for Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV), along with advanced modules represents our dedication to forge groundbreaking paths in this landscape.”

Ashok Babu S, Founder of Auklr Technologies Private Limited, the second-place winner of EVangelise ’23 stated,“We are honoured to clinch the second-place in EVangelise ’23, Indias largest EV innovation challenge. We at Auklr Technologies are driving a change in the automotive industry with our digital instrument cluster, set to revolutionise the electric vehicle experience. This recognition fuels our commitment to shaping a dynamic future for EVs, where innovation meets excellence on the road ahead.”

EVangelise ’23 took place over six months, during which startups and EV innovators from 20 states and UTs showcased their novel solutions for real-life challenges in the EV industry under three themes, Traction, Energy & Telematics, Intelligence and Connectivity (TIC).

About iCreate
Winner of the National Award for Technology Business Incubator 2020, iCreate (International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology) is an autonomous centre of excellence of the Government of Gujarat and is India’s largest institution for transforming start-ups based on tech innovation into successful businesses. Located in a state-of-the-art 40-acre campus at Dev Dholera in Ahmedabad, it has supported over 587 innovations and 50 patents with a ‘high-touch, entrepreneur-first model’, connecting them with mentors, markets, and money. Embedded systems and IoT are a focus area for iCreate in domains like electric vehicles, agritech, smart cities, health tech, industrial automation, and renewable energy, among others. iCreate has partnerships with leading institutions in the US, Israel, and other countries. It has a strategic partnership with CSIR, Indias apex organisation for science and technology, and with leading institutions worldwide.

Ramee Group of Hotels expands its presence in Tamil Nadu with a new hotel in Coimbatore

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Ramee Group of Hotels has revealed its expansion into Tamil Nadu with the acquisition of a management contract property in Coimbatore. This strategic entry into the state signals the initiation of the group’s expansion plans. The hotel, strategically located among significant business centers and cultural landmarks, aims to reshape the hospitality scene in Coimbatore. Specifically designed to cater to the unique requirements of corporate guests, the hotel assures a thoughtfully crafted space seamlessly incorporating modern amenities.

Featuring 45 meticulously designed rooms, a round-the-clock dining facility, a serene spa, and a cutting-edge event space, the Coimbatore property is tailored to serve the needs of both business and leisure travelers. Positioned strategically and equipped with thoughtful amenities, the hotel aspires to enhance the overall guest experience in the region.

“We are excited to introduce the Ramee experience to the dynamic city of Coimbatore,” shared Saurabh Gahoi, VP India, Ramee Group at Ramee Group of Hotels. “Our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and creating indelible memories aligns seamlessly with the ethos of Coimbatore. We eagerly anticipate contributing to the city’s ascent as a premier hospitality destination.”

India Shines on a Global Platform, as The Postcard Hotel Wins Twin Honours at World Travel Awards in Dubai

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Marking a new chapter of acclaim, The Postcard Hotel, has proudly secured the title of Worlds Leading Emerging Boutique Hotel Brand 2023 at the prestigious World Travel Awards held at Burj Al Arab in Dubai. The brand has also been awarded Worlds Leading Boutique Beach Hotel 2023 for its oceanfront property, The Postcard on the Arabian Sea, Karnataka.

The Postcard on the Arabian Sea, Karnataka

World Travel Awards is the most prestigious and sought after award programme in the global travel industry. To be voted a winner is an accolade which many strive for. The glittering event saw a confluence of influential figures and top-tier brands from the global travel and tourism industry.

The success of a new Indian luxury hotel brand at the World Travel Awards underscores Indias reputation for hospitality excellence and highlights Indias growing influence in the global hospitality scene. The Postcard Hotels triumph at the World Travel Awards signifies the countrys ability to not only preserve its cultural essence but also offer world-class services that cater to the discerning needs of modern travellers.

“It is an honour to have the brand and one of our hotels recognised on a global, coveted stage, celebrating the finest in the industry. To feature amongst other iconic, industry defining, hotel brands is a privilege that has humbled us and the recognition confirms we are on the right path of building something truly spectacular,” shares Kapil Chopra, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Postcard Hotel. Celebrating the wins and thanking World Travel Awards, Kapil adds, “This prestigious recognition is a testament to our team’s passion, dedication and heartfelt efforts to deliver extraordinary experiences for all our guests.”

The sentiments expressed by Chopra encapsulate The Postcard Hotels unwavering dedication to excellence and their commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences across their expanding portfolio. The recognition of Worlds Leading Emerging Boutique Hotel Brand 2023 underscores The Postcard Hotel’s emergence as a trailblazer in the boutique hotel landscape.

Being awarded Worlds Leading Boutique Beach Hotel 2023 highlights the allure and captivating charm of The Postcard on the Arabian Sea. Located on the picturesque Maravanthe Beach, the hotel epitomises the brands philosophy of providing guests with unforgettable, tailor-made experiences, coupled with unrivalled hospitality and attention to detail. The oceanfront sanctuary eases guest into relaxed indulgence along a stretch of sand, and pristine waters, where guests can immerse themselves in tranquillity and luxury, embraced by the serenity of the Arabian Seas shoreline.

About The Postcard Hotel

Kapil Chopra, together with a team of seasoned luxury hoteliers including Akanksha Lamba, Anirudh Kandpal, and Raman Bansal, embarked on a visionary journey to create extraordinary experiences for discerning travellers. In December 2018, they unveiled The Postcard Hotel, a brand driven by boldness and ambition, committed to redefining the rules and elevating the standards of experiential luxury.

The Postcard Hotel has four operational hotels in Goa – The Postcard Saligao in North Goa, The Postcard Velha in the old Portuguese capital of Old Goa, The Postcard Cuelim in South Goa, and The Postcard Hideaway in the forests of Netravali. Perfectly positioned just off the scenic Maravanthe coast, The Postcard on the Arabian Sea is just mere steps away from the sea, with each room boasting uninterrupted views of the turquoise ocean. In Gujarat, The Postcard Gir Wildlife Sanctuary – offers the experience of witnessing the majestic Asiatic Lion and indulging in the riches of culture and cuisine of Saurashtra. The Postcard Mandalay Hall, the first Postcard arthotel is set in the historic neighbourhood of Mattancherry in Kochi, a truly unique hotel with rooms as art galleries- each personally curated by a renowned artist.

Internationally, The Postcard Hotel is present in the Kingdom of Bhutan and Sri Lanka – The Postcard Dewa, Thimphu and The Postcard Galle, respectively. The luxury brand has a commitment to unveil a new hotel every three months and is currently engaged in building twenty hotels from the ground up, all in different stages of development.

Homegrown D2C Brand Factor Notes Unveils Its Premium Curated Planners for 2024

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Homegrown D2C brand, Factor Notes is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated premium curated planners for 2024. Rooted in the essence of curated premium planners, these artistic creations are designed to evoke a sense of serenity and sanguinity whist prioritizing mental health & emotional well-being. From a playful colour palette to vibrant design, the new collection caters to a broad spectrum of tastes, bringing bundles of joy and tranquility.

Your Gateway to a Year of Productivity and Style

Targeting individuals between the ages of 15-35, The 2024 collection seamlessly blends functionality with beauty, offering a holistic approach to enhancing personal well-being and fostering meaningful relationships. In line with Factor Notes commitment to sustainability, every item in the hamper is crafted from eco-friendly materials and is packaged with recyclable and reusable materials, minimizing ecological damage.

The 2024 special edition planner features a captivating array of floral designs and the design aesthetics serve as a gentle reminder to prioritize mental health and emotional well-being, encouraging individuals to pause amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life by nurturing their inner selves.

Excited about the 2024 Happy Hamper collection, Nasaf S Co-founder of Factor Notes said, “Our Happy Hamper is a delightful bundle of goodies thatll help users nurture stronger connections, boost their mood and cultivate a positive mindset. Its like a personal wellness kit thats good for both relationships and mental well-being. Were thrilled to offer a product thats kind to their mind and the planet.

Dedicated to delivering individuals who are passionate about achieving their goals and expressing their personal style through aesthetics, Factor Notes brings forth three distinct offerings for every individuals taste and budget. Aesthetic lovers can avail either The Happy Hamper which is a set of 14 goodies including the 2024 planner or The Mini Hamper which comprises the 2024 planner and 7 other goodies and can also opt for the 2024 Planner alone, all of which can be purchased for Rs. 2499, Rs. 2199 and Rs. 1199 respectively.

The center-piece of the Happy Hamper is its comprehensive planner, meticulously designed to help individuals track their moods, budgets, sleep patterns, meal plans, and shopping lists. Beyond the planner, the hamper includes a myriad of thoughtful items such as bookmarks, a sticker book, conversational game cards, family and friendship tokens, wall posters, and heart-shaped birthday cards, creating a personalized and meaningful gift.

Factor Notes devoted to infusing ingenuity and expression into each product and service, presents a specialized collection that stands as a testament to the platforms creative potential and vision. The 2024 collection, an artistic odyssey, is available for purchase on the Factor Notes website, inviting creativity mavens to experience the magical touch of art.

Inspiring Dialogue on Legal Education: Justice Rajesh Bindal Addresses Galgotias University’s School of Law

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Galgotias Universitys School of Law recently hosted a thought-provoking dialogue on the journey of budding lawyers, featuring esteemed guests, Honourable Justice Rajesh Bindal of the Supreme Court of India, former Delhi High Court Judge Professor J.R. Midha, and other dignitaries.

Justice Rajesh Bindal Addressing Galgotias Universitys School of Law

The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and Saraswati Vandana, setting an auspicious tone for the evening.

Aradhana Galgotia, Director of Operations at Galgotias University, expressed, “I am delighted to extend a heartfelt welcome to our esteemed guests. It is truly a matter of great fortune for both our institution and the university family to have the presence of the distinguished Justice of our country, Honourable Justice Rajesh Bindal. I cannot overstate the significance of Justice Bindals role in shaping our nations judicial system. His invaluable contributions serve as a beacon of inspiration for all, especially our law students, who stand to gain immensely from the profound lessons embedded in Justice Bindals journey.

Chancellor Sunil Galgotias addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of knowledge infused with passion. He highlighted the pivotal role of the Indian justice system in the nation and urged students to diligently pursue their goals through hard work and dedication.

Renowned former judge and Professor J.R. Midha, with over 13 years of service at the Delhi High Court, shed light on the evolution of the Indian education system. Emphasising the paramount importance of ethics and honesty in ones profession, he applauded Justice Rajesh Bindals exceptional track record of disposing of over 80 thousand cases in Chandigarh. Currently serving as Professor Emeritus at Galgotias University, Justice Midha imparts invaluable lessons to law students, focusing on the Fundamentals of Law, Communication Skills, and Rational Thinking.

Justice Rajesh Bindal, in his address said, “This age is of knowledge and the transformative impact of the internet. There is a need for practical application of knowledge in real-life situations, and the importance of continuous effort in the pursuit of success. While concerns exist about the backlog of cases, the government is actively working to tackle the issue, despite challenges posed by staff shortages.”

The program concluded with the guests being honoured with Ashok Pillar, mementos, and shawls. Prof. Namita Malik, Dean of the School of Law, expressed gratitude and highlighted the transformative power of knowledge and mentorship. The event was skillfully conducted by Dr. Bani Sharma and Dr. Priyam, with the presence of other faculty members and students adding to the success of the event.

About Galgotias University

Galgotias University, located in Uttar Pradesh and sponsored by Smt. Shakuntala Educational and Welfare Society began operations in the 2011-2012 academic session and welcomed its first batch of students in July 2011. Since then, it has grown to have more than 30,000 students. Presently, it houses 17 schools offering a diverse range of programs, including Polytechnic, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD courses. Recognized as one of India’s top universities, Galgotias University has achieved a 5-star rating by QS in Teaching, Facilities, Employability, Innovation, and Academic Development. Additionally, its fifth position in India for Patent Filing reflects its commitment to innovation and research. The School of Law has earned impressive rankings, securing the 3rd position in UP and the 11th position in India according to the India Today-MDRA survey 2023. Positioned at the forefront of the education sector, Galgotias University remains steadfast in its dedication to the UNs sustainable development goals.

Lentra to Host the 2nd Edition of the Digital Lending Summit in Mumbai on December 13 to Further Ignite Innovation in Lending Ecosystem

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‘Growth for All’ takes center stage at this years summit

Leaders from the RBI, prominent banks, and NBFCs to grace the event with their presence

Lentra, the leading digital lending SaaS platform is geared up to host its 2nd edition of its annual flagship event, Digital Lending Summit. This summit is slated to take place on December 13 in Mumbai. The event will serve as a collaborative platform in bringing together a diverse set of industry players including the incumbent banks, NBFCs, new age Fintech Lenders, regulators, service providers, consumers etc. to explore strategic collaborations and partnerships and thus help more people enter and leverage the formal financial system. Participate in the Lentra Digital Lending Summit 2023 by registering at tinyurl.com/5n7276t7.

Lentra to host the 2nd Edition of the Digital Lending Summit in Mumbai on December 13

“As India targets a $5 trillion economy in the near future, the role of credit access, propelled by technological innovations, becomes paramount in realizing this ambitious goal and contributing to Indias overarching growth narrative. To showcase digital tools and foster discussions on expanding credit access, Lentra is organizing the Lentra Digital Lending Summit 2023. This summit presents a unique opportunity to leverage Indias lending strength, initiating a concerted effort to transform the landscape of credit acquisition and delivery. With engaging discussions, insightful interactions, and a prestigious felicitation ceremony, the Lentra Digital Lending Summit 2023 is poised to become a crucial catalyst in Indias economic progress,” said Sandeep Mathur, Chief Revenue Officer, Lentra.

Under the theme of Empowering Economic Growth for all, Bridging the Credit Gap‘, the summit aims to offer a comprehensive view of the digital lending ecosystem in India, and an interactive platform to understand key market trends, enablers, and drivers as well as new players entering in this space through panel discussions, special addresses, and various breakout sessions. Shri Jayant Kumar Dash, Executive Director of the Reserve Bank of India, is going to grace the event and deliver a keynote session on improving credit access via inclusive policies and interventions.

This flagship event will witness participation from distinguished speakers, including Arvind Vohra (Head – Retail Assets, HDFC Bank), Ashwini Kumar Tewari (MD, SBI), Sandeep Batra (MD, HSBC), Ramesh Iyer (CEO, Mahindra Fin), Rakesh Singh (MD & CEO, ABFL), Karthik Srinivasan (CBO, HDBFS), Shalini Warrier (ED, Federal Bank), Ratan Kumar Kesh (ED & COO, Bandhan Bank), and Ajay Rajan (Country Head Digital & Transaction Banking, YES Bank) will share their insights.

The day-long event will include breakout sessions with industry experts like Santanu Basu (Head SME, ABFL), Sumant Rampal (Group Head, HDFC Bank), Rajnish Khare (CDO, UBI), Ashish Abharam (Head, Credit Analytics & Innovation, HDFC Bank), Markandey Upadhyay (Chief Data & Analytics Officer, Piramal Finance), and Chitrabhanu KG (Country Head – Retail Assets & Cards, Federal Bank).

The event will recognise and acknowledge the achievements of trailblazing lenders, who are creating significant impact through their pioneering credit products in diverse lending sectors, encompassing Consumer Finance, Priority Sector, Education Financing, and more.

The attendees will also get first-hand experience of some innovative lending solutions across the loan cycle at the Lentra Engagement Zone, that will include Persona-based loan journey, SME Straight-through journey, Trader-loan journey, Credit on UPI, to name a few.

As a special highlight, there will be a Fireside Chat with former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, exploring the mindset for achieving excellence, drawing unique lessons from global sporting excellence applicable to lasting business success.

The event is supported by AWS, IDfy, MongoDB, Arya.ai and Mihup.

About Lentra
Founded in 2019, Lentra is enabling banks in democratising digital lending through its SaaS platform. It empowers banks (& NBFCs) to create custom loan products and enhance customer experiences, through its API-driven modular architecture. Currently, Lentras digital lending platform serves over 50 banks, has processed over $20 billion worth of loan applications, with 2 million loans being processed every month. Lentra supports its customers in expanding their reach, reducing non-performing assets, optimising operational efficiencies, and using Pay-as-you-go pricing for their growth. Lentra is backed by investors like BVP, Citi, HDFC, MUFG, SIG & Vy.

To read more, please visit Lentra.ai.

Rural fintech firm Navadhan raises $5mn in Series A funding

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Navadhan, a fintech company focused on rural areas, has secured $5 million in a pre-Series A funding round. Prime Venture Partners led the investment, with participation from existing investors Gemba Capital and Varanium NexGen Fintech Fund.

Navadhan plans to utilize the newly raised funds to improve its AceN tech platform. This platform acts as a link between small rural businesses and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and banks. The startup aims to expand its distribution network and enhance its service delivery model.

Nitin Agrawal, Vijay Haswani, Anirudh Ramakuru, and Amit Biswal jointly founded Navadhan, which includes a non-banking financial company. Nitin Agrawal, a former executive at ICICI Bank, played a crucial role in establishing a rural finance business for Fullerton, India. He also served as the CEO of Spandana Sphoorty.

Navadhan’s AceN tech platform provides comprehensive customer fulfillment services, covering tasks such as sourcing, digital enrollments, credit underwriting, servicing, payments, and collections. The platform boasts access to credit lines exceeding ₹300 crore from 20 banks and NBFCs.

Nitin Agrawal said: “We are excited to have [Prime VP] join our journey in building a tech-led business model with a revenue-first approach and a vision of creating wealth for rural entrepreneurs. The new fundraise will add tailwinds to our efforts at building solutions to bring such small-businesses to the formal economy. We will continue to build it for bank, NBFCs to leverage on the regulatory advantage of priority sector assets.”

“The MSME sector in India has always been credit-starved, and yet remains one of the critical growth sectors in the country. Nitin, his co-founders and the Navadhan team have demonstrated an extremely viable and tech-driven model for distribution, underwriting, and robust collections, while leveraging co-lending to achieve meaningful scale,” said Sanjay Swamy, managing partner, Prime Venture Partners.

The Vitskamat Group launches Kamat’s Legacy Nariman Point outlet in Mumbai 

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Kamat’s Legacy, a restaurant franchise under Kamat’s Restaurants, announces its new establishment in Mumbai’s Nariman Point. Dr Vikram Kamat, the visionary Founder, presided over the inaugural ceremony, marking a significant event for the brand and its customers.

The restaurant not only presents an enticing new menu but also beckons customers to embark on a journey, immersing themselves in the warmth and authenticity reminiscent of a South Indian home.

At Kamat’s Legacy, each dish is a homage to South India’s culinary heritage, embodying the aroma of freshly ground spices and the authentic flavours of the region. The restaurant is devoted to excellence, utilizing only the highest quality ingredients. With a commitment to health, Kamat’s Legacy incorporates alternatives like white butter and ghee, reflecting the brand’s dedication to offering an experience that nurtures both the body and soul.

During the launch event, Dr Kamat highlighted the crucial role played by the hotel, tourism, and hospitality sectors in creating substantial employment opportunities. Emphasizing the potential growth in these sectors, he expressed optimism about the positive impact of government attention on their development.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Vikram Kamat stated, “This second ‘Kamat’s Legacy’ restaurant in Mumbai at Nariman Point is a testament to the positive response received after the inauguration of the first one in Bhandup. We aim to set up seven to ten restaurants in Mumbai and four to five in Pune within the next year.”

Dr Kamat emphasized the unique offerings of the restaurant, urging patrons to relish the unique South Indian delicacies at Kamat’s Legacy. He also addressed the employment opportunities within the sector, noting that there are still 30 to 50 per cent vacancies and underscoring the necessity for skilled individuals. Dr Kamat highlighted the significance of initiatives like ‘Skill India’ to attract and train talented youth for the industry.

In a broader context, Dr Kamat called upon the government to address sector-specific challenges and take decisive steps for growth. He highlighted that the hotel, tourism, and hospitality sectors contribute ten per cent to the GDP, emphasizing the necessity for concerted efforts to tackle its issues.

Dr Kamat provided insights into the Kamat Hospitality Academy of Skills, highlighting its ‘Earn and Learn’ scheme for 120 children and scholarships for class 12th education. He extended an invitation to students who drop out of mainstream education, encouraging them to join the institution for business education opportunities. With these initiatives, Dr Vikram Kamat envisions a brighter future for the industry, marked by growth, employment, and educational opportunities.

TERI Drives Climate Action Discourse at COP28 with Unprecedented IPCC Insight and Industry Solutions from the AR6 Report

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The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) organized a first-of-its-kind panel discussion at the Climate Live Pavilion during COP28, focusing on the Sixth Assessment Report (AR 6) by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and its relevance for India.

Prof Jim Skea speaking at the Panel Discussion

Prof Jim Skea, IPCC Chair, shared the global assessments of the IPCC and their specific implications for Indias climate realities. Prof Skea outlined projections for India, providing crucial insights that can guide the countrys development trajectories in response to climate change challenges. Emphasizing the urgency of action, the report underscored the severe consequences humanity faces without immediate mitigation efforts targeting key climate change drivers.

Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, commenced her welcome address, reflecting on the longstanding historic association between TERI and IPCC. She credited the integration of sustainability into the ethos of every ‘TERI-ite’ to this enduring partnership. Dr Dhawans address emphasized the concern over rising temperatures, underscoring its broader implications for humanity and particularly its impact on lower-income segments. Expressing deep apprehension about the alarming state of current climate change, Dr Dhawan remarked, “We are already late in taking action. The impact of climate change is far uglier than what was predicted. Unfortunately, the impacts are not uniform. The countries already struggling are going to be negatively impacted due to the changing climate.”

Guiding the audience through the IPCC assessments, Prof Skea stated, “Current policies are likely to lead to temperature overshooting 1.5-degree target. Net zero globally does not mean net zero for all countries and sectors simultaneously.” In the upcoming cycle, the IPCC is determined to prioritize equity issues. Most vulnerable countries are the least contributors to emissions per capita. “These vulnerabilities are exacerbated by inequity and marginalization,” he added. His presentation was succeeded by the launch of the report ‘Practices and Solutions: Accelerating Indian Industry Decarbonisation.’ The report is a compilation by signatory Indian companies of the Industry Charter for Near-Zero Emissions Ambition by 2050. The report captures the key achievements and voluntary actions by Indian industries.

During the interactive session, the IPCC Chair and the Indian Business Leaders delved into the implications of the AR6 findings. The discussion extended to deliberations on opportunities available for India to adopt an inclusive and green development pathway. This involves leveraging the nations strengths, embracing innovative technologies, and adopting climate-friendly approaches to development. The dialogue aimed to pave the way for a sustainable future while addressing the pressing challenges outlined in the IPCCs latest assessment.

Addressing the imperative of net-zero emissions, Mr Satish Pai, Managing Director, Hindalco Industries Ltd., voiced his concern, suggesting, “We should be talking about the storage mechanism. Perhaps, we should look at nuclear solutions as an option to solve the carbon issue.” Recognizing the complexity of the matter, he acknowledged that every solution comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Mr Pai presented this perspective to industry leaders, proposing it as a crucial topic for discussion and further exploration within the broader discourse on sustainable practices.

Discussing the current landscape of electric vehicles in the country, Ms Abanti Sankaranarayanan, Chief Group Public Affairs (India & International) and Group Sustainability, Mahindra Group, shared insights during her presentation. “It is bold and audacious because current figures for India indicate less than a one-and-a-half percent consumer adoption of electric vehicles. So we are in some ways having to create the market for electric vehicles and theres a slew of policy and enablement as well as the cost structure and redefining that needs to be done to trigger acceleration and consumer adoption of electric vehicles.”

“Profitability and sustainability can go hand in hand,” asserted Mr Mahendra Singhi, MD & CEO, Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Ltd., highlighting the advantage they gained through early recognition of this paradigm. He proudly shared that Dalmia Cement stands out as one of the few companies with the least carbon footprint. Expanding on the potential for implementing non-viable solutions, Mr Singhi emphasized, “We need to explore the possibility of capturing CO2 viable. Replace thermal with renewable energy and replace fossil fuel with non-fossil/biofuel to reduce the carbon footprint.” According to him, carbon credits and green finance can further expedite this transformative process.

Mr Koushik Chatterjee, Executive Director & Chief Financial Officer, Tata Steel Ltd., said, “We cannot achieve climate positivity without nature positivity. The role of public policy is facilitating the pace of the decarbonisation. Carbon market and carbon pricing including voluntary carbon markets will become very critical for a country like India.”

The session ended with a vote of thanks by Mr Arupendra Nath Mullick, Vice President, TERI Council for Business Sustainability.

About TERI

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), based in India, is an independent, multi-dimensional research organization with capabilities in policy research, technology development, and implementation. An innovator and agent of change in the energy, environment, climate change and sustainability space, TERI has pioneered conversations and action in these areas for nearly five decades. Headquartered in New Delhi, it has centres in six Indian cities, and is supported by a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, sociologists, economists, engineers, administrative professional and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

Swasti and the Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education (GCCHE) Launch ClimateCare Champions Program

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In the face of growing health challenges posed by climate change including rising heat-related illnesses, vector-borne and waterborne diseases and mental health issues, Swasti, The Health Catalyst, and the Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education (GCCHE), Columbia University, proudly announce the launch of ClimateCare Champions program. This innovative initiative aims to equip community health workers (CHWs) with the knowledge and skills needed to address the health impacts of climate change in core geographies of India, Cambodia, the Philippines, Bangladesh, and beyond.

Swasti x GCCHE-ClimateCare Champions Program

This program is a collaborative effort driven by the urgent need to empower communities to enhance their wellbeing despite the looming threat of climate change. Identified as the greatest health challenge of the 21st century, the climate crisis poses severe risks to air quality, food and water security, and amplifies the prevalence of infectious and chronic diseases.

Dr. Angela Chaudhuri, Chief Executive Officer of Swasti states, “This partnership launched during Health Day at COP 28, marks a crucial step toward realizing our vision of a world where all people, especially the most vulnerable, overcome barriers to universal health. CHWs are vital links between health systems and communities. Often, these workers are women embedded within their communities, offering intimate access to households, addressing overlooked needs of women and other genders. They bridge gaps in healthcare and foster trust within the communities they serve.”

Dr. Cecilia Sorensen, Director of GCCHE adds, “With this partnership, we are taking a critical step towards ensuring that health professionals worldwide are well-prepared to address the multifaceted health challenges posed by climate change. The program focuses on vulnerable populations, including new and expecting mothers, infants, as well as outdoor and factory workers. This underscores our commitment to building climate-resilient communities and safeguarding the health of those who are most at risk.”

The ClimateCare Champions is founded on two clear objectives. Firstly, the program aims to empower Community Health Workers with the expertise to adeptly screen, detect, refer, and prevent adverse health effects associated with climate change in the communities they serve. Secondly, it provides specialized training to enhance CHWs communication and advocacy skills. This empowers them to serve as trusted messengers, advocating with decision-makers in both public and private sectors. They will promote localized interventions that effectively address specific public health risks posed by climate change.

The program utilizes flexible, hybrid modes of delivery, incorporating both in-person and digital elements. Grounded in globally benchmarked research published in top journals, it employs a contextualized curriculum and delivery tailored for local communities in the Global South.

About Swasti

Swasti is a Health Catalyst that strives for 100 million healthy days for vulnerable communities. Swasti was founded in 2004 as a springboard from where innovative solutions are developed, adapted or scaled to create transformative changes in the lives of the poorest communities. Swasti believes people must be at the center of health systems for it to effectively work for the poor. To add healthy days to the lives of the world’s poor by 2030, the global multi-disciplinary team co-designs demonstrable and scalable solutions models in partnership with communities on the ground and influences policies nationally and internationally. Swasti has varied expertise, from public health to financing and management to design – across sectors of health, worker well-being, WASH, social protection, and gender – providing comprehensive and integrated solutions to achieve community health and wellbeing.

About Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education

Launched in early 2017, the Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education (GCCHE) was born from a meeting at the December 2015 COP-21 conference in Paris. A special session was held to highlight the need for greater investment in the study of and planning for the health impacts of climate change. The U.S. White House and the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health’s Climate and Health Program spearheaded a pledge that was announced at the session, which was signed by 115 health professions schools and programs around the world, to educate tomorrow’s leaders on the health impacts of climate change. The World Health Organization endorsed the goal of educating health professions’ students and practitioners on the health impacts of climate change and their roles and responsibilities. The GCCHE was then created, with a secretariat based at Columbia University, which supports curriculum development, education and coordinates activities among members on this vital mission.