In an age where the world is rapidly evolving, marked by the convergence of creativity and technology, Chitkara University has emerged as a hub for innovative thinkers and aspiring visionaries. As the marketing landscape undergoes transformative changes propelled by social media, online content, and e-commerce, the demand for adept leaders who can seamlessly integrate marketing strategy with the ever-evolving digital realm has never been greater. Chitkara University acknowledges the need to equip its students with the insights necessary to navigate the scientific, ethical, and societal challenges posed by these innovations.

Chitkara University Campus

Chitkara University’s UGC entitled 2-year Online MBA program in International Business with Global Immersion Tracks is a rewarding educational experience that combines the flexibility of online learning with hands-on international exposure. Consistently ranked among the top Universities in India, the academic rigour along with regular interaction with professionals from the industry ensures that the scholars are guided to harness their potential with intensive curriculum and visionary faculty. It equips the students to master industry-relevant skills to respond to customer expectations, develop strategies to place their companies at the forefront of their sectors and propel their career in the digital marketing domain.

The online streamlined MBA curriculum at Chitkara University, which has been endorsed by CXOs of top Digital Brands, gives the freedom of flexibility to earn a world-class UGC entitled MBA which is designed to fit into one’s business schedule and aligns well with one’s career aspirations. The curriculum is based on the framework of strategic competitiveness, which teaches the concepts of creativity, entrepreneurship, innovation, sustainability, leadership and decision making.

This program caters to a diverse audience, including working professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs, career switchers, and recent graduates allowing students to specialise in Marketing, Finance, Business Analytics, or HR, all while building a robust foundation in global business concepts. Moreover, Chitkara University maintains close links and associations with leading blue-chip companies to deliver the academic program and ensures that the courses are relevant, practical and deliver the skills in demand.

This MBA program’s unique feature is the 1-week Global Immersion Track offered each semester in Bangkok, Singapore, Dubai and Kuala Lampur, providing students with an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge in practical international business settings. This dual approach of online learning and global experiences will equip graduates with a competitive edge in the dynamic global business arena. As a part of this Global Immersion Track, one will reside on campus in a university setting for five days, receive instructions from globally renowned professors and thus, enrich the learning experience.

This program marks a departure from traditional education, offering a distinctive educational journey. With direct mentorship from industry experts, students undergo a significant transformation, emerging as effective leaders. They cultivate a cross-border network of relationships that serves as a lifelong resource, providing access to opportunities, mentorship, and a wealth of global possibilities.

Throughout its illustrious journey of providing an exceptional educational experience designed to help students ‘explore their potential‘, Chitkara University has achieved numerous milestones including the prestigious ranking of “A+” by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), which places it among the 5% of higher education institutions (HEIs) in India to be granted such a coveted grade. It is also the first university in India to have been awarded the coveted ‘Platinum‘ rating by QS I-GAUGE, a comprehensive and independent rating system for India’s universities and colleges.

Through the establishment Chitkara University Research and Innovation Network (CURIN), Chitkara University has been at the forefront of groundbreaking research and innovation. Various projects have been launched that encourage diverse learning by fostering creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship through pedagogy and vision. The Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development (CEED) is engaged with more than 155 start-ups and students are encouraged to dive in the world of research and accelerate entrepreneurial talent. The idea is to encourage innovation, by providing tools and an office space where the students can brainstorm and work on novel ideas.

About Chitkara University

Chitkara University, situated near Chandigarh, has emerged as the most vibrant and high-ranking University in North India. It is ranked among the top 5% of higher education institutions in India. The University is awarded NAAC A+ accreditation and has also been ranked by NIRF (National Institute Ranking Framework).

The University offers courses in Engineering and Technology, Business Management, Planning; Architecture, Art & Design, Mass Communication, Sales and Marketing, Hospitality Management, Pharmacy, Health Sciences, Law, Psychology, and Education. Students studying at Chitkara get the best start-up support, world-class research excellence, and many internationally renowned opportunities.

For more information, please visit: www.chitkara.edu.in

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, revealed its new brand identity and livery during a milestone event in Jeddah, in the presence of Royal Highnesses, Excellencies and leaders from both the public and private sectors, as well as prominent media correspondents and aviation experts. This new identity is in line with a wider strategic digital transformation plan aimed at strengthening the airlines support for the Kingdoms Vision 2030 to bring the world to Saudi Arabia.

The rebrand marks the beginning of a new era for Saudia, introducing innovative concepts in terms of customer services with a strong focus on digital aspects and enhancing the guest experience by celebrating Saudi culture. This transformation reinforces Saudias national identity as it reimagines all products and services to engage all five senses. Guests can anticipate an authentic Saudi experience during their journey, showcasing the very best of Saudi Arabia and its rich culture. This includes a distinctive fragrance and sonic identity, locally inspired cuisine, all crafted by skilled Saudi craftsmen. This new identity mirrors Saudi Arabias welcoming spirit, leaving guests with a deep sense of the countrys warmth and hospitality, while promoting a deeper appreciation of Saudi culture for both nationals and visitors. The rebrand also encompasses new uniforms for cabin crew and ground staff.

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The new brand color identity, comprised of green, blue, and sand, represent Saudias aim to expand its fleet and destinations, connecting the world to Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the Kingdoms authenticity and deep-rooted values.

It is a new era and a very exciting time for Saudia. In parallel to the rebrand, Saudia has also undertaken a huge digital transformation, entirely enhancing the customer digital experience. Saudia leads among international airlines in operating generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a virtual assistant, named “SAUDIA”, being one of the first-of-its-kind in the region. Saudia will enable guests to complete the entire transaction through this efficient process by the end of the year.

The ambitious, long-planned digital transformation, fully improve customer experience, but also allow more streamlined operations and processes while ensuring the highest levels of protection of guests personal data, through strong partnerships with global leading companies.

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His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said, “We are experiencing a new era and a very exciting time for Saudia. Our airline has evolved from a Douglas DC-3 aircraft in 1945, to a 140-aircraft modern fleet serving over 100 destinations, becoming one of the largest airline in the region.”

“The name and logo of Saudia are integral parts of the Kingdoms aviation history and development, and our people share a special emotional connection with the brand. We have incorporated this rich heritage into our new identity, adding elements that reflect our visionary approach, poised to captivate the world.”

Saudia is not only rolling out a fully integrated digital program and revamping its look, it is also effectively and quickly helping advance Saudi Arabias Vision 2030, collaborating with all industry stakeholders to achieve the targets of the National Aviation Strategy. The strategy aims to turn Saudi Arabia into a leader in the global industry, by enhancing the customer experience, improving safety and working towards a more sustainable future, in line with Saudias expansion goals to bring around 330 million visitors to the Kingdom by 2030.

About Saudia
Saudia is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle Easts largest airlines.

Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleet. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia.

A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012.

Saudia was recently awarded the “World Class Airline 2024” for the third consecutive year at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards. Saudia has also advanced 11 places in the Skytrax airlines ranking of the World Best Airlines 2023. The Airline also ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by the Cirium.

For more information on Saudia, please visit www.Saudia.com.

Vimukti Sanstha, a beacon of hope and empowerment for underprivileged girls in India, presents with pride two exceptional young talents who are set to represent the nation at the prestigious Under-19 Muay Thai World Championship 2023 in Turkey, which will be held during 1st to 7th October.

Manisha Pem Gold Medalist Youth National Muay Thai Championship 2023

The spotlight shines on two 17-year-olds, Manisha Pem and Muskan Verma, who are outstanding students from Vimukti and have won accolades such as a Gold and Silver Medal respectively at the National Muay Thai Championship held in Chennai, India. Their remarkable achievement has earned them a coveted spot in the upcoming Under-19 Muay Thai World Championship, Turkey. A victory at this championship will open doors for them to compete in the prestigious Asian Games 2023, an event recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the second-largest multi-sport extravaganza in the world, second only to the Olympics.

Muskan Verma Silver Medalist Youth National Muay Thai Championship 2023

Lavalina Sogani, Founder-Secretary of Vimukti Sanstha, expressed her pride and enthusiasm for Manisha and Muskans accomplishments, stating, “At Vimukti, our mission has always been to empower these young girls and unlock their potential. Manisha and Muskans journey from humble beginnings to representing India on the global stage is a testament to the resilience and determination of our students. We are immensely proud of their achievements and are committed to supporting them in their pursuit of excellence.”

Since its inception in 2004, Vimukti has been on a transformative journey, dedicated to the education and empowerment of girls from the urban slums of Jaipur. Starting with just a modest group of 20, six-year-old girls, the organization has flourished over the years. Today, it caters to a total of 650 students, ranging from Nursery to Grade 12. Under the visionary initiative known as Project Udaan, Vimukti seeks to unearth hidden talents and provide expert guidance to nurture excellence. As part of this endeavour, the school introduced Martial Arts in January 2022, Gymnastics in January 2023, and Yoga in July 2023.

In addition to its remarkable achievement in the field of sports, Vimukti Sanstha has provided formal education to approximately 1600 underprivileged girls. The organization remains steadfast in its dedication to equipping 200 young girls with the skills and confidence required for career-oriented futures. Furthermore, 50 students who have successfully completed their twelfth grade have been awarded scholarships to pursue higher education and specialized vocational training.

RBI registered NBFC-MFI, SATYA MicroCapital Limited has successfully raised INR 500 Cr (USD 60Mn) from Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation which is a Japanese multinational banking financial services institution owned by Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

SATYA backed by SMBC Bank via USD 60Mn debt funding

The infusion of debt funding will engender an advancement in scaling up SATYA’s operational model while continuing to formulate innovative credit offerings, expanding product portfolio, providing complete end-to-end business processes for its esteemed clients. The funding will also be leveraged towards catalysing financial inclusion amongst women micro entrepreneurs and shaping a new paradigm of women empowerment through microfinance.

Mr. Vivek Tiwari, MD & CEO of SATYA MicroCapital Limited said, “Our association with SMBC Bank serves as the propelling force and motivation for SATYA to continue its mission of driving financial inclusion and empowering women entrepreneurs across India. The level of trust SMBC Bank has bestowed in our business model will form the helm of our expansion goals. SATYA’s business model is eventually gaining impetus across global landscape. Moving forth, SATYA will stay ardently committed to creating sustainable impact and enabling brighter future for countless households at the bottom of the pyramid.”

About SATYA MicroCapital Limited

Established in October 2016, and headquartered in the capital city of New Delhi, SATYA initiated the course of its operational journey in January 2017. With the foremost and fundamental goal of empowering rural women, digitally – socially – financially, SATYA has come a long way since its incorporation. Since then, the company has registered an impressive growth by achieving Assets Under Management (AUM) of nearly INR 5000 crore. With a network of more than 500 branches spanning over 50,000 villages across 25 states, SATYA is harnessing technology as a catalyst for inducing progressive change in the lives of its clients, where it has consistently integrated cutting-edge innovations into its operations. This in turn has resulted in SATYA emerging as one of the fastest growing highly-technology driven MFIs in the country. At present, SATYA is furnishing its affordable micro credit services to more than 15 lakh women entrepreneurs from rural and semi-urban areas who are excluded from traditional banking channels because of their low, irregular, and unpredictable income. The helm of SATYAs accessible services is to be a catalyst for the socio-economic upliftment of its clients via channelizing income growth and income generation. SATYA is integrally concentrated towards building their financial capacity and ability to boost financial self-sufficiency. The taskforce of more than 6000 employees plays an intrinsic role in SATYAs ongoing growth trajectory. In addition to yielding financial aid to unbanked sections of the population, SATYA MicroCapital consistently associates with institutions of the same wavelength to disseminate the importance of digital and financial literacy in rural areas.

Media Contact: mediarelations@satyamicrocapital.com

For More Information Visit: satyamicrocapital.com.

The Moscow City Tourism Committee revealed that Indian businessmen are paying ever growing attention to Russia and its capital, as over the last 2 years the MICE tourist flow from India has grown to become one of the most numerous groups among all foreign business tourists outside the CIS countries.

Business + Leisure Travel and MICE 2023 opened on 29th of September at New Delhi

Business + Leisure Travel and MICE 2023 opened on 29th of September at New Delhi with a keynote speech from the Chairman of The Moscow City Tourism Committee, Mr. Evgeny Kozlov. In his speech, the Chairman spoke about the potential for MICE and business tourism in Moscow and the growing number of Indian businessmen who are choosing Moscow as their preferred destination for business events.

Mr. Evgeny Kozlov highlighted that the number of business tourists is expected to grow in the coming years. One of the factors supporting the growth of interest from Indian businessmen was the launch of electronic visa program. From August 1, 2023, it has become easier for Indian citizens to organize a trip to Moscow – they can come simply by applying for an electronic visa. The validity period of an e-visa is 60 days from the date of its issuance. You can stay with it in Russia for 16 days. An e-visa has several advantages over a traditional visa. To obtain it, you do not need to go to consulates or embassies, and the only documents required are a digital photograph of your face and a scan of the page with your passport data.

“Before the pandemic, the tourist flow from India grew by 12-15 percent annually. Now we are on the road to recovery – all the conditions have been created for this. Every year hundreds of international exhibitions, forums, congresses and conferences are held in Moscow. Over the past year, about 3.5 million people visited the capital for business purposes and a significant share of them are from India,” he said.

Evgeny Kozlov emphasized that Moscow is a growing hub for international business events and Indian businessmen could benefit from attending these events to expand their network and explore potential business opportunities. The Moscow MICE Ambassadors program, which also premiered at the exhibition, aims to promote Moscow as a preferred destination for business tourism, and Indian businessmen who have completed the program can serve as valuable resources for organizing conferences and events in Moscow. Furthermore, Moscow offers a range of world-class facilities and services for business travelers, including conference centers, hotels, transportation, and sightseeing. He also mentioned that Moscows rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife could provide Indian businessmen with unique experiences that could enhance their overall business trip.

In conclusion, Mr. Evgeny Kozlov expressed his optimism for the future of MICE and business tourism in Moscow. Thus, in October 2023, Moscow will host the largest MICE Congress in Russia. Among the participants are 14 countries, including Indians. The event will provide a platform for businesses in the travel and tourism industry to showcase their products and services.

Moscow City Tourism Committee is the executive body of the Moscow City Government that oversees tourist activities in the capital. The Committee is responsible for legislative initiatives, congress and exhibition activities, and event and image projects. As the brand manager for an attractive tourism image for Moscow, Mostourism constantly analyses global trends, offers Russian and foreign tourists what they want, and also uncovers new opportunities for the capital in terms of interesting and rewarding leisure activities.

For more details, please visit: www.mos.ru/tourism.

Bisleri, Indias leading packaged drinking water, has partnered with the highly anticipated action-thriller film – Leo, starring the industry heartthrob Thalapathy Vijay. The partnership will see Bisleri limited-edition packs featuring the iconic Leo coin. These limited-edition packs will be made available in 500ml, 1 ltr and 2ltr SKUs, catering to the discerning tastes of consumers across Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Bisleri x Leo Partnership

Commenting on the collaboration, Tushar Malhotra, Head of Marketing, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd., said, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Leo, our eleventh limited-edition pack in the span of a year that connects with our consumers. These movies are a celebration of our rich cultural heritage that plays a big part in our consumers everyday life.”

Also, Lalit Kumar ofSeven Screen Studio, commented, “We are thrilled to partner with Bisleri, a brand whose values seamlessly align with our movies narrative. The collaboration injects a fresh and innovative dimension into our films promotional efforts, igniting excitement among fervent movie lovers.”

The limited-edition packs will be accessible across 40,000 retail outlets, encompassing both traditional and modern trade stores in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Additionally, the special packs will be conveniently available on the Bisleri @Doorstep App for the utmost convenience of our valued customers.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the countrys largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and neighbouring countries. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri Mineral Water or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Pop, Rev, Limonata and Spyci Jeera. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform – Bisleri @Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

CropLife India & YES BANK Knowledge Report estimates indicate that INR 2 lakh crores worth of crop yield is lost annually due to pests in the country

Two State Agriculture Ministers, Government, Academia & Agro-chemical Industry deliberate on the India – An Emerging Global Food Hub: Role of Sustainable Crop Protection Solutions during the National Conference organized on the occasion of 43rd AGM of CropLife India

CropLife India; the association of leading domestic and Multinational R&D driven crop science companies; organized a National Conference on the occasion of its 43rd AGM. The conference witnessed the congregation of two Agriculture Ministers from the key States of Andhra Pradesh and Haryana; senior Government officials, experts, academia and industry leaders. YES BANK was the Knowledge Partner for the event.

Knowledge Report released – Mr. Sunjay Vuppuluri, Mr. Srinivasa Karavadi, Ms. Sangeeta Bojappa, Shri Kakani Govardhan Reddy, Dr. K. C Ravi, Ms. Chhavi Rajawat, Dr. Siang Hee, TAN and Mr. Rajvir Rathi

CropLife India & YES BANK Knowledge Report

Highlights

In India, estimates suggest that about INR 2 lakh crores worth of crop yield is lost annually due to pests.

Indian agriculture is Feeding a massive 1.43 billion population

Contrary to the myths, the crop protection usage in India is just at 0.37 kg / hectare compared to a staggering 11.24 kg/hectare in Japan.

The crop protection industry in India is undergoing a Transformation from a product-centric to a sustainable solution-centric approach, wherein “beyond-crop protection” offerings are being provided to farmers.

Agtechs (including drone-techs) are changing the way agri-inputs are delivered to farmers, the way agri-inputs are applied in the farm as well as the way farmers are linked to markets. Usage of drones is a big game changer not only for the way that crop protection solutions are applied on field, but also for providing additional income generating activities in rural areas by promoting entrepreneurship.

The State Governments have a big role to play in enabling Ease of Doing Business and Ease of Doing Agriculture.

CropLife India believes that the State Governments will play an imminent role in paving a “Public-Private Pathway” for capacity building and awareness creation

India now stands as the 2nd largest exporter of agrochemicals globally, after China, making it a key participant in the global crop protection industry.

Deliberations during the National Conference focused on the theme “India – An Emerging Global Food Hub: Role of Sustainable Crop Protection Solutions“. The focus of the Inaugural Session was “The Rise of Indian Agriculture – World’s Emerging Food Basket & the Role of States”. Plenary Session I focussed on “Women driving the growth of Indian Agriculture” and the Plenary Session II dwelled on “Innovations for the New-Age Farmers.” The Valedictory Session deliberated on “Role of Agrochemicals in the growth of Indian Agriculture.”

During his inaugural address Shri Kakani Govardhan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture Government of Andhra Pradesh shared that, “The State Government is committed towards Farmers’ education for enhanced use of new technology in agriculture; which has led to multiple novel initiatives viz. E-KYC Know Your Crop aiming to provide farmers with essential digital resources. The State is considering to implement State Minimum Support Price Act to further bolster inclusive agricultural practices.”

Shri J. P. Dalal, Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture Government of Haryana said, “Farmers of Haryana are being encouraged to take up crop diversification and produce as per the market demands. Asias largest market, spanning over 550 acres, is under construction in Ganaur in Haryana, and will be better than the markets in developed countries like Spain and France. The market would provide farmers with facilities for grading, packaging and sorting at the block and tehsil levels, thus help in export quality products to the international market.“

Dr. Ashok Dalwai, Chairman, Empowered Committee Doubling Farmers’ Income, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India participated in the Industry Leaders’ Interaction and shared his views on the public private partnership for providing better technologies to the farmers for increasing the productivity and the production and also suggested for data based research studies.

Dr. P. K. Singh, Agriculture Commissioner, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India said, “Adopting the One Health approach to balance and optimize the health of people, animals and the environment is non-negotiable for nation’s growth. The role of technology in enabling multiple crop cycles in the same field; educating farmers and reframing the perception of agrochemicals is the need of the hour.“

Dr. Vishal Choudhary, Dy. Industry Advisor, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers, said, “The Ministry has established an Industry Facilitation Cell to address industry’s issues and efforts are underway towards creation of dedicated courses for agrochemicals; which would help in responsible use.“

Dr. S. C. Dubey, ADG (Plant Protection), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India shared, “Agrochemicals are crucial for minimizing crop losses and increasing productivity, along with Nutrient & water management. Investment in R&D is imminent for sustainable agriculture and policies should be prioritized towards environmental sustainability, farmer well-being, and long-term profitability.“

Dr. K. C. Ravi, Chairman, CropLife Indiasaid, “As India emerges as a Global Food hub, the need for a predictable, stable and science based policy and regulatory regime for the proper growth of the crop protection sector is imperative. This would promote innovation and new product introduction to address the current and upcoming challenges faced by farmers; while paving the way with introduction of cutting edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Drones.“

Ms. Chhavi Rajawat, first MBA Sarpanch, Ms. Sangeeta Bojappa, Dr. Anupama Singh, Scientist, IARI and Ms. Nisha Solanki, First Woman Drone Pilot of Haryana participated in a session focused on “Women driving the growth of Indian Agriculture”.

The crop protection industry has been making an immense contribution to Indian Agriculture in the last 77 years and is committed to continue the same. CropLife India members are not only committed to bring latest and safer innovations and are equally committed to educate farmers on their safe and responsible use. CropLife and its member companies would like to continue to contribute in creating a science-based, pragmatic and stable regulatory environment.

CropLife members continue to work closely with farmers, scientific community and policy makers to address current as well as future challenges. However, the cost of research has gone up and it is estimated that the cost of discovery and development of a new active ingredient is around INR 2000 crores. If Indian agriculture must flourish, be more competitive, quality driven, reducing wastages as well as losses to enable our farmers to be more successful, it is absolutely essential that a progressive policy environment is in place that fosters innovations.

About CropLife India

CropLife India is committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and it is an association of 16 R&D driven member companies in crop protection. We jointly represent ~ 70% of the market and are responsible for 95% of the molecules introduced in the country. Our member companies have annual global R & D spend of 6 billion USD and are firmly committed to engaging with the farming community to enable Safe, Secure Food Supply.

Our member companies were established in India as far back as the 1950s; we continue to work hand-in-hand with the Government to build the agriculture sector – from direct investment of building factories, jobs creation, bringing in agriculture innovation and working endlessly over the years with multi-stakeholders to enhance agriculture productivity.