2 faculty members got the 2nd rank in India among AI & Image Processing and Food Science fields
This year’s number is increased from 22 to 34
Lovely Professional University (LPU) continues to make strides in the global academic arena, as 34 of its faculty members have been recognised among the world’s top 2% scientists by Stanford University, USA. This number shows a significant increase from last year’s 22 faculty members. 2 faculty members got the 2nd rank in India among AI and Image Processing & Food Processing fields. This prestigious recognition, featured in a global list compiled by Stanford, highlights the most influential researchers worldwide, acknowledging their contributions to the field of research.
Lovely Professional University
Expressing immense gratitude for this achievement of faculty members, LPU’s Founder Chancellor & Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal, congratulated all faculty members who have been featured as top scientists in their respective fields worldwide. Mr. Mittal emphasised that this achievement highlights the exceptional research work being carried out by the institution, reflecting its commitment to impactful research.
The recognized faculty members have excelled in varied domains such as medicinal and biomolecular chemistry, artificial intelligence and image processing, pharmacology and pharmacy, materials science, and others.
The honoured faculty members represent LPU’s commitment to advancing scientific innovation across 17 diverse research fields. In the area of Materials Science, three faculty members have been recognised for their contributions to understanding and developing new materials. With the rising significance of artificial intelligence and image processing, two LPU researchers were commended for their work in these cutting-edge fields.
The recognition also extends to the field of Energy, with one faculty member making important advancements in sustainable energy solutions. Two researchers were acknowledged for their work in environmental sciences, contributing to the global efforts in climate change and sustainability. In Networking and Telecommunications, four LPU faculty members were included for their expertise in revolutionising communication technologies.
Pharmacology and Pharmacy, vital to healthcare and drug development, saw four LPU’s scientists among the recognized. The fields of medicinal and biomolecular chemistry and biotechnology, three and one, respectively were also well represented with contributions.
Additionally, recognition in areas such as Applied Physics (04), General Physics (03), and Mechanical Engineering & Transport (02), Industrial Engineering and Automation (1), Organic Chemistry (1), Optoelectronics and Photonics (1), Neurology & Neurosurgery (1) and Agronomy & Agriculture (1) reflect LPU’s strengths in engineering, pharmacy, sciences, and environments. This recognition underscores LPU’s commitment to fostering a strong research culture and contributing significantly to global scientific advancements.
The subject-specific bibliometric evaluation was undertaken by a team comprising scientists from Stanford University and Elsevier BV, a prominent scientific publisher. This comprehensive list, meticulously developed through the analysis of scientific research metrics like the H-index, citations, and other performance indicators, celebrates the excellence of scientists who have made noteworthy strides in their respective domains.
BUSINESSNEXT, a leader in composable enterprise solutions for banks and financial services, has received the “Best Employer for Women” Award at the 5th Diversity & Inclusion Excellence Awards and Conclave-2024 organized by Assocham in New Delhi.
The award recognizes the company’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and fostering an inclusive, equitable workplace.
Lipika Mohanty, Director of People and Development at BUSINESSNEXT, and her team while receiving the award
Promoting ‘Women Empowerment’ is at the core of BUSINESSNEXT’s mission.
The company has notably implemented various measures aimed at supporting its female workforce and creating an environment where they can thrive. Initiatives such as flexible work arrangements, leadership development programs, strong support for women returning after maternity leave have contributed to building a supportive and inclusive environment, and employee wellness initiatives that address multiple aspects of well-being, helped the company secure the 2nd runner-up trophy.
Building on this accolade, the company is taking its commitment to gender equality to new heights. Currently, 20% of leadership roles at BUSINESSNEXT are held by women directly reporting to the CEO, a number that the company plans to grow as part of its broader strategy to create an inclusive and thriving workplace.
“This award is not just an honor; it is a testament to dedication and commitment to championing gender diversity and empowering women at BUSINESSNEXT,” said Lipika Mohanty, Director of People and Development at BUSINESSNEXT.
While sharing her excitement, she further added, “Our recognition as the “best employer for women” is not just a milestone, It is woven into the very fabric of our core values and is a fundamental part of our organisational DNA. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace drives, innovation and success. Our strategic focus on inclusive leadership and career advancement for women will guide us as we set new benchmark for workplace equality in the years to come. With this recognition, we are excited to expand our initiatives and further integrate the principles of inclusivity and equity into our everyday practises.”
Over the years, BUSINESSNEXT has continuously strengthened its commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. In 2023, it was honored with the “Best Organization for Women” award by The Economic Times. Additionally, cultivating an inclusive workplace has earned it the title of ‘Most Preferred Workplace‘ for two consecutive years (2023-2024 and 2024-2025) by India Today in collaboration with Marksmen Daily.
About BUSINESSNEXT
BUSINESSNEXT offers composable enterprise solutions focused on global banks and financial services. Recognized as a leader by Forrester, it uses AI and ML-driven cloud platforms-CRMNEXT, CUSTOMERNEXT, DATANEXT & WORKNEXT-to enable digital transformation. Its modular hyper SaaS modular solutions provide seamless integration and plug-and-play capabilities. Serving over 1 million users across 65,000 branches and call centers, BUSINESSNEXT manages 1 billion customers worldwide. With headquarters in Raleigh, USA, and Noida, India, the company operates in 14 countries across 5 continents.
Aditya Birla Housing Finance (ABHFL), a fully owned subsidiary of Aditya Birla Capital Limited, India’s leading diversified financial services company, announced a strategic partnership with BharatPe, a renowned Indian fintech company to facilitate access to home loans and loan against property for merchant partners.
Mr. Pankaj Gadgil, MD & CEO, Aditya Birla Housing Finance
ABHFL is the first housing finance company to partner with BharatPe, offering streamlined access to secured lending through advanced digital solutions, significantly enhancing the user experience. This collaboration enables ABHFL to offer Home Loans (HL) and Loans Against Property (LAP) to over 1. 3 crore merchants of BharatPe across 450+ cities, with a strong focus on Tier 2 and 3 markets.
Backed by ABHFL’s financial expertise and BharatPe’s vast network, the partnership aims to provide seamless access to customized financing solutions for both, existing as well as new merchants.
Merchants can initiate loan applications directly through the BharatPe app, and avail benefits like faster processing, enhanced transparency, and real-time updates. The partnership is poised to deliver region-specific, innovative financing solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of BharatPe’s diverse merchant base.
Mr. Pankaj Gadgil, MD & CEO, Aditya Birla Housing Finance Ltd., said, “At Aditya Birla Housing Finance, with customer at the heart of everything that we do, it is our constant endeavour to align our solutions with the evolving digital needs of our customers. This partnership with BharatPe enables us to expand our digital footprint while offering customised region-specific financial solutions to their vast digital ecosystem. It will empower a larger segment of the population to achieve their homeownership dreams with greater ease and efficiency. This initiative underscores our commitment to providing a happy home loan experience and strengthens our role as industry innovators to make homeownership achievable for a wider range of individuals.”
Mr. Nalin Negi, CEO, BharatPe, said, “In August this year, we ventured into secured loans with the launch of Two-wheeler loans and Loans Against Mutual Funds, offered in partnership with renowned financial services companies. I am excited about our partnership with Aditya Birla Housing Finance that enables us to offer 2 new types of secured loans- Home Loans and Loans Against Property. I am confident that with this partnership, we will be able to add a new dimension to our existing association with our merchants. This partnership will enable us to offer region- specific, digital first secured credit solutions to the merchants of Bharat. These categories of loans will also play a vital role in enhancing our engagement with our merchant partners, as we will be able to help them with credit for their big-ticket or once in a lifetime purchases. We stay committed to empower offline merchants across the country with our wide range of offerings and will continue to innovate to add new and relevant fintech products for the merchants and consumers across the country.“
ABHFL will cater to the diverse needs of BharatPes vast merchant network by offering innovative, customised financing solutions designed to meet the specific requirements of different regions across India. This signifies a new milestone in ABHFLs dedication to broadening its digital presence and offering innovative financial solutions to a wider audience.
About Aditya Birla Housing Finance Limited
Aditya Birla Housing Finance Limited (“ABHFL“), a subsidiary of Aditya Birla Capital Limited is a fast-growing housing finance company (“HFC”) in India. ABHFL is registered with the National Housing Board (NHB) as a non-deposit accepting housing finance company and commenced operations in October 2014.
As of June 30, 2024, ABHFL manages assets under management of over Rs. 20,399 Crore and has significantly expanded its footprint to 138 branches. The company holds a long-term credit rating of AAA (stable) and short-term credit rating of A1+ from Crisil, ICRA and India Ratings.
About Aditya Birla Capital Limited
Aditya Birla Capital Limited (“ABCL“) is the holding company for the financial services businesses of the Aditya Birla Group. Through its subsidiaries/JVs, ABCL provides a comprehensive suite of financial solutions across Loans, Investments, Insurance, and Payments to serve the diverse needs of customers across their lifecycle. Powered by over 50,000 employees, the businesses of ABCL have a nationwide reach with over 1,505 branches and more than 200,000 agents/channel partners along with several bank partners.
As of June 30, 2024, Aditya Birla Capital Limited manages aggregate assets under management of Rs. 4.63 Lakh Crore with a consolidated lending book of Rs 1.27 Lakh Crore through its subsidiaries/JVs.
Aditya Birla Capital Limited is a part of the US$66 billion global conglomerate Aditya Birla Group, which is in the league of Fortune 500. Anchored by an extraordinary force of over 187,000 employees belonging to 100 nationalities, the Group is built on a strong foundation of stakeholder value creation. With over seven decades of responsible business practices, the Group’s businesses have grown into global powerhouses in a wide range of sectors – from metals to cement, fashion to financial services and textiles to trading. Today, over 50% of the Group’s revenues flow from overseas operations that span over 40 countries in North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
About BharatPe Group
BharatPe (brand name of Resilient Innovations Pvt Ltd) was founded in 2018 to make financial inclusion a reality for Indian merchants. In 2018, launched India’s first UPI interoperable QR code, the first zero MDR payment acceptance service. In 2020, post-Covid, BharatPe also launched a card acceptance terminal – BharatPe Swipe. Currently with a registered network of over 1.3 crore merchants across 450+ cities, the company is one of the leading players in UPI offline transactions, processing 450 million+ UPI transactions per month. BharatPe processes payments of annualized Transaction Processed Value of over Rs. 1.7 Lac Crores. BharatPe Money (brand name of Resilient Digi Services Private Limited), a BharatPe Group Company, has already facilitated the disbursement of loans of over Rs. 18,000 crores, in partnership with NBFCs. BharatPe’s POS business processes payments of over Rs. 29,000 crores annually on its machines. BharatPe has raised over US$ 583 million in equity till date. The company’s list of marquee investors includes Peak XV Partners (formerly known as Sequoia Capital India), Ribbit Capital, Insight Partners, Amplo, Beenext, Coatue Management, Dragoneer Investment Group, Steadfast Capital, Steadview Capital and Tiger Global. In June 2021, the company announced the acquisition of PAYBACK India (Rebranded to Zillion), the country’s largest multi-brand loyalty program company with 100 million+ members. In October 2021, the consortium of Centrum Financial Services Limited (Centrum) and BharatPe, was issued a Small Finance Bank (SFB) license by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). BharatPe also entered the consumer fintech segment with the launch of postpe in October 2021. In August 2024, the company rebranded postpe app to BharatPe and ventured in the consumer payments space with the launch of its UPI TPAP. In January 2023, Resilient Payments Pvt Ltd, a BharatPe Group Company, received an in-principle nod from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as an online payment aggregator. In April 2023, BharatPe acquired is also a promoter in Trillionloans, a renowned NBFC (Non- Banking Financial Company) registered with RBI.
Gold has indisputably earned its place in every Indian household, not only for its cultural significance but also for its role as a financial lifeline. When the need for funds arises, a gold loan can be a quick and convenient solution. For borrowers, the gold loan journey becomes even easier with a gold loan calculator, which estimates the loan amount based on the value of their gold jewellery.
Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan
Why gold loans are ideal for raising emergency funds
Gold loans are perfect for individuals who need quick funds. Since one need not sell their beloved jewellery and gold assets, this makes for a perfect instant solution. Whether it’s for medical emergencies, business investments, or education, a gold loan can bridge the gap effortlessly.
What is a gold loan calculator
A gold loan calculator is a simple tool that helps borrowers estimate the loan amount they can get by pledging their gold jewellery. Based on the weight and purity of the gold, this calculator gives an estimate of the amount they can borrow. Many lenders, including Bajaj Finance, offer easy-to-use gold loan calculators online. This tool is crucial for anyone considering a gold loan, making it easier for borrowers to plan.
Using a gold loan calculator offers several benefits:
Quick estimates: Borrowers receive an instant estimate of the loan amount based on their gold’s value.
Better financial planning: The calculator assists in planning loan repayment by providing an estimate of interest payable and tenure options.
Convenience: The tool is available online 24/7, allowing borrowers to check their eligibility at any time.
How does a gold loan calculator work
The gold loan calculator takes into account several factors, including:
The total weight of the borrower’s gold jewellery, excluding stones or other metals.
Purity of gold
Current market rate
After entering these details, the gold loan calculator provides an estimated loan amount that the borrower can get. It may sound cumbersome, but Bajaj Finance’s gold loan calculator is particularly user-friendly, offering borrowers an instant result in just a few steps.
Now that an individual has estimated the loan amount choosing the right lender is the next important step. Bajaj Finance offers a gold loan product that not only provides quick disbursements but also comes with a host of other benefits.
Here’s why the Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan stands out:
Loan of up to Rs. 2 crores: Borrowers can avail of a gold loan starting from Rs. 5,000 up to Rs. 2 crores, depending on their needs. This flexibility ensures that both small and large financial needs are covered.
Easy application process: Borrowers can apply for a gold loan online through the Bajaj Finserv App, and a representative will assist them in completing the application process when they visit the nearest branch.
Part-release facility: Bajaj Finserv offers a part-release facility, allowing borrowers to repay a portion of their loan and retrieve part of their gold jewellery even before the end of the loan tenure. This is ideal for those who might want to recover some of their assets early.
Transparent evaluation: The lender uses the latest karat meters across all branches, ensuring a fair evaluation of the gold, so borrowers get the highest value for their jewellery.
Free insurance of gold: Bajaj Finserv provides free insurance for gold jewellery while it is in their custody, protecting borrowers from theft or misplacement.
Convenient repayment options: With multiple repayment options, borrowers can choose to pay interest monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annually, depending on their financial situation.
Whether its for emergencies, business, or personal expenses, gold loans offer a seamless way to access funds. Bajaj Finserv Gold Loan, combined with its transparent evaluation, free insurance, and part-release facility, makes the borrowing experience hassle-free.
*Terms and conditions apply.
About Bajaj Finance Limited
Bajaj Finance Ltd. (‘BFL’, ‘Bajaj Finance’, or ‘the Company’), a subsidiary of Bajaj Finserv Ltd., is a deposit taking Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC-D) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is classified as an NBFC-Investment and Credit Company (NBFC-ICC). BFL is engaged in the business of lending and acceptance of deposits. It has a diversified lending portfolio across retail, SMEs, and commercial customers with significant presence in both urban and rural India. It accepts public and corporate deposits and offers a variety of financial services products to its customers. BFL, a thirty-five-year-old enterprise, has now become a leading player in the NBFC sector in India and on a consolidated basis, it has a franchise of 80.41 million customers. Bajaj Finance has a credit rating of AAA/Stable for its Fixed Deposit program from CRISIL and ICRA, AAA/Stable for long-term borrowing from CRISIL, India Ratings, CARE and ICRA, and A1+ for short-term borrowing from CRISIL, India Ratings and ICRA. It has a long-term issuer credit rating of BBB-/Stable and a short-term rating of A-3 by S&P Global ratings.
India’s apex industry body for the alternate capital ecosystem, the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA), is set to host the GreenReturns Summit 2024, one of India’s most significant initiatives focusing on climate change. The two-day Summit will take place in New Delhi from December 2-3, 2024.
IVCA Gears Up for Indias Pioneering GreenReturns Summit 2024
IVCA’s mission is to create a self-reliant and sustainable investment ecosystem for domestic and global capital, addressing the critical financing needs of India’s green transition. The Summit will see participation from prominent institutional investors, including sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, and private equity firms, alongside Indian leaders. The event aims to foster strategic dialogue on channelling global institutional capital into climate-resilient projects by leveraging innovative financial mechanisms, such as blended finance. A key feature of the Summit will be the Green Pop-up Village, which will showcase some of India’s leading companies and start-ups, highlighting their innovations and sustainable practices within the green economy.
Rajat Tandon, President, IVCA, stated, “The IVCA GreenReturns Summit 2024 will serve as a pivotal platform for fostering dialogue, innovation, and actionable solutions to channel global and domestic capital into sustainable sectors. We are laying the groundwork for India’s leadership in the global climate agenda, driving investments that will not only support the nation’s net-zero commitments but also generate long-term economic and environmental returns.”
IVCA’s GreenReturns Summit offers a unique opportunity to showcase the immense investment potential of India’s green economy. Announced at COP26 in 2021, India’s ambitious net-zero target by 2070 positions the country among global climate leaders. However, there is an immediate financing gap of USD 3.5 trillion, part of the total USD 10.1 trillion needed to meet these targets. This Summit aims to address that gap.
The Summit will facilitate dialogue on mobilizing capital, with a focus on areas such as concessional finance, technology transfers, and innovative financing mechanisms. It will also explore actionable pathways to attract long-term, climate-focused capital, accelerating the shift to renewable energy and addressing India’s key climate challenges. IVCA, which represents a combined AUM of USD 340 billion across its 380+ members, has been at the forefront of fostering a thriving investment ecosystem in India. The GreenReturns Summit will further strengthen its leadership in steering the country toward a sustainable and financially resilient future.
Pokemon GO, one of the leading augmented reality mobile games by Niantic, is thrilled to announce Bollywood’s favourite couple, Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh, as the brand ambassadors for India. Known for their charm, warmth, and deep-rooted connection to Indian culture, the couple is set to bring their unique energy to Pokemon GO’s growing fan base in the country.
Genelia Deshmukh, an avid Pokemon GO player made a special appearance at the ‘Pokemon Festivities‘ celebrations in Mumbai where Pikachu wearing a saree made its first appearance, to highlight the cultural collaboration and her connection to the game. Known for her family-centric values and advocacy for blending tradition with modernity, Genelia is excited about this unique partnership with Pokemon GO.
Susumu Fukunaga, Corporate Officer, The Pokemon Company; Pikachu; Genelia Deshmukh; Yuki Kawamura, Sr. Director, Strategic Partnerships and Special Projects, Niantic
“As a mom and a proud Indian, the ‘Festival of Light’ event is a beautiful blend of tradition and technology. It’s incredible to see Pokemon GO celebrate Indian culture in such a fun and engaging way, with characters like Pikachu wearing a saree! Pokemon has always been special to me, and Pikachu is also both my kid’s favourite Pokemon. Seeing it in a saree is a wonderful experience and being able to share this joy with my family and the world through such an innovative approach is truly exciting,” says Genelia.
Riteish Deshmukh echoed her excitement, adding, “As someone who loves technology and gaming, being part of the Pokemon GO family feels like a natural fit. Playing this game for so long since it came to India in 2016 and now associating with the brand to promote it truly thrills me as it not only encourages fun but also keeps our cultural heritage alive in such an interactive way.”
Yuki Kawamura, Senior Director, Strategic Partnerships and Special Projects, Niantic also expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Riteish and Genelia D’Souza Deshmukh to the Pokemon GO family. Their deep connection with Indian culture and passion for gaming makes them the perfect ambassadors. We’re always striving to create experiences that resonate with our diverse player base, and with this unique celebration, we’re bringing a special piece of Indian heritage to our global platform.”
As part of their ambassadorship, fans can look forward to special videos featuring Riteish and Genelia sharing their experiences with Pokemon GO.
Genelia Deshmukh with the newly unveiled Pikachu wearing a saree and Pikachu wearing a kurta
Additionally, Pokemon GO is hosting exciting Festival of Lights celebrations, including a special event in Bengaluru on November 3, 2024, at Phoenix Marketcity, where Pikachu will appear in a saree, alongside surprises and giveaways for Trainers.
A sweepstake on Instagram will also offer two lucky winners from India a chance to attend the Pokemon GO City Safari in Sao Paulo.
This partnership not only underscores the couple’s appeal but also highlights Pokemon GO’s commitment to cultural localization in India, making gaming experiences more meaningful for its diverse player base. In September 2023, Niantic also added Hindi language support to the game strengthening its commitment to promote inclusivity, encourage engagement, and enable more players to embark on their Pokemon GO adventures.
About Niantic
Niantic builds augmented reality technology that powers the real-world metaverse. Our Lightship platform is the world’s first scaled AR platform, enabling developers around the world to create AR experiences for phones and eventually AR glasses. Lightship is also the foundation for Niantics hit games, including Pokemon GO, Pikmin Bloom and Peridot.
GenZCFO, a premier financial advisory firm, proudly announces the launch of GenZPe, a cutting-edge credit improvement and debt management platform specifically designed for Gen Z and Millennials. Tailored to meet the unique financial challenges faced by today’s younger generation, GenZPe aims to revolutionize credit management through personalized solutions, financial wellness tools, and an intuitive user experience.
GenZCFO Launches GenZPe
GenZPe is set to become an essential resource for young adults seeking to rebuild their credit history, resolve past financial hurdles, or break free from the cycle of debt. The platform offers comprehensive credit management services, including credit counseling, credit score monitoring, and personalized improvement strategies. With a focus on accessibility and ease of use, GenZPe empowers users to take control of their financial future with confidence.
“At GenZPe, our mission is to simplify financial management for Gen Z and Millennials. We want to enable young people to not only address their immediate credit concerns but also build a foundation for long-term financial independence,” said CA Manish Mishra, Founder & CEO of GenZCFO. “Through GenZPe, we provide personalized tools that support financial wellness, helping young individuals manage their credit responsibly and sustainably.”
Key Features of GenZPe
Credit Score Monitoring: Real-time credit score tracking with personalized insights and suggestions for improvement.
Credit Counseling: Expert guidance and counseling to navigate complex financial situations.
Debt Management Solutions: Tailored plans to help users overcome debt and build a healthy credit profile.
Financial Wellness Resources: A comprehensive library of tools, including budgeting tips, loan management strategies, and more, designed to foster financial literacy.
Whether users are managing student loans, looking to finance a side business, or recovering from financial setbacks, GenZPe offers the solutions they need to overcome challenges and secure a brighter financial future.
Backed by the Expertise of GenZCFO
The launch of GenZPe is built on the solid foundation of its parent company, GenZCFO, a renowned financial advisory firm known for delivering comprehensive services across a wide range of industries, including retail, manufacturing, food, entertainment, and the BFSI sector. With a proven track record in strategic financial planning, tax planning, regulatory compliance, fundraising, virtual CFO services, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A), GenZCFO has consistently helped clients achieve financial success.
About the Founder
CA Manish Mishra, a Chartered Accountant with over 20 years of experience, has been a key figure in securing over $50 million USD in funding for clients. His extensive knowledge of regulatory frameworks from bodies such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has made him a trusted advisor in the financial sector. Manish’s deep expertise in M&A, strategic planning, and compliance has been instrumental in shaping the growth of GenZCFO and now GenZPe.
“We’re extending our core mission of financial empowerment to the next generation,” added Mr. Mishra. “With GenZPe, young individuals will not only have access to crucial credit management tools but also the guidance needed to navigate the complex world of finance.”
Empowering the Next Generation
By launching GenZPe, GenZCFO reinforces its commitment to empowering young individuals to make informed financial decisions. Whether it’s improving credit scores, securing funding for new ventures, or overcoming financial challenges, GenZPe aims to be a reliable and trusted partner for Gen Z and Millennials as they work towards achieving long-term economic independence.
About GenZCFO
GenZCFO is a leading financial advisory firm offering strategic financial planning, regulatory compliance, tax advisory, fundraising, and M&A services. With a mission to empower businesses and individuals, GenZCFO provides tailored financial solutions across industries, ensuring sustainable growth and economic success.
MSM Group is thrilled to announce joining hands with the Minifootball Association of India (MAI) as the official sponsor of the Indian U23 Mini Football Team for the WMF Men’s U23 World Cup 2024, in Mali Losinj, Croatia. The Minifootball World Cup represents the largest and most prestigious competition organized by the World Minifootball Federation (WMF). Held every two years, this premier event showcases the best of 6-a-side mini-football on a global stage. This exciting partnership underscores MSM Group’s commitment to supporting sports and community development on a global stage.
MSM Group Becomes Official Sponsor of Indian Mini Football Team for WMF Men’s U23 World Cup 2024
As the official sponsor, MSM Group, which includes verticals such as MSM Unify, Q Academy, and Innivec, will receive significant exposure throughout the tournament, thereby providing a unique platform for MSM Group to increase its brand visibility and engage with a passionate global audience. Additionally, upon the team’s return to India, a special photo session will be arranged, featuring the players in their branded uniforms, solidifying MSM Group’s association with the team and the sport.
Sharing his excitement on this partnership, Dr. Raghwa Gopal, CEO, MSM Unify, stated, “At MSM Group, we believe in the power of sports to unite, inspire, and uplift. Our sponsorship of the Indian Mini Football Team is a testament to our commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting a sense of pride in our Indian roots. Supporting these athletes as they represent our country on the global stage aligns perfectly with our value of empowerment.”
Mr. Siddhesh Chindarkar, Secretary-General, Mini-football Association of India (MAI) added,”The Minifootball Association of India extends heartfelt gratitude to the MSM Group and their partners, MSM Unify, Q Academy, and Innivec, for their invaluable support that enabled our team to participate in the WMF U23 World Cup. We especially acknowledge MSM Group and their subsidiaries as the first-ever financial supporters of the MAI India Team in this endeavor. We look forward to their continued support as India prepares for the prestigious WMF World Cup 2025 in Baku, where 32 countries will compete for the title.”
MSM Group believes this partnership is an ideal opportunity to not only showcase the brands but also to support the growth of mini football in India by promoting sports and coming up with new CSR initiatives aimed at community development and sustainability, in line with its mission to drive positive change beyond regular operations.
Brig. Uttam Hukku (Veteran), CEO, South Asia, MSM Unify, added, “Sponsoring the Indian U23 Mini Football Team is more than just a branding opportunity for MSM Group; it is our way of celebrating Indianness and supporting the sporting spirit of the youth. By standing behind these talented players, we aim to foster a sense of pride, resilience, and excellence.”
Tanvir Qureshi, CEO, Q Academy, echoed this sentiment, saying, “At MSM Group, supporting the Indian Mini Football Team reflects our ongoing dedication to empowering the next generation of achievers. We believe that success comes from both opportunity and determination, and we are proud to back these athletes as they represent India with pride and passion. This partnership reinforces our belief in providing platforms where talent, whether in education or sports, can thrive and make a lasting impact.”
Hosting on Airbnb is one of the best ways to make money from your home, but not everyone has the time to do it. That’s why we’re introducing Co-Host Network, an easy way to find the best local hosts to manage your Airbnb. We’re also making over 50 upgrades for guests that make Airbnb a more personalized app, including recommended destinations, suggested search filters, and personalized listing highlights, all based on your past trips and search history.
Discover top-rated local Co-hosts now available on the Airbnb app. Easily view profiles, reviews and ratings to find the perfect Co-host
Introducing Co-Host Network
Starting today, you can easily find and hire the best local Co-hosts to manage your Airbnb-right in the app. Co-hosts provide personalized support based on your hosting needs, from listing setup to managing bookings, and communicating with guests.
Hire the best hosts on Airbnb – Co-hosts are experienced hosts with an exceptional track record on Airbnb. They have an average rating(1) of 4.86, compared to 4.62 for large property management companies(2). In fact, 73% of Co-hosts are Superhosts, and 84% of Co-hosts help manage a Guest Favorite-some of the highest-quality homes on Airbnb.
Find your perfect Co-host right in the app – With more than 10,000 Co-hosts across 10 countries, were making it easy to find the best Co-host for you. Our personalized ranking algorithm recommends a list of co-hosts based on more than 80 factors, including your location, hosting experience, and type of home. You’ll see their profile and reviews, and you can connect with them right in the app.
Easily collaborate with your Co-host – When you hire a Co-host on Airbnb, everything you need to work together is built into the app. You can message your co-host directly, give them access to your calendar, share payouts, and more.
“With the Co-Host Network, we’re taking the work out of hosting,” said Brian Chesky, Airbnb Co-founder and CEO. “Starting today, you provide the home, and we’ll provide an exceptional Co-host.”
From tailored search tips to customized filters and a seamless checkout, discover over 50 upgrades to guide your journey
A more personalized app
The journey from search to booking is now customized for you, with over 50 upgrades, including:
Welcome tour – If you’re a first-time guest, we’ll help you get started with a guided tour of the app.
Suggested destinations – When you tap the search bar, we’ll recommend locations based on your search and booking history. We’ll also offer shortcuts to your past searches and your recently viewed listings.
Search tips – Throughout your search, well offer relevant tips to help you find last-minute stays, discounts from hosts, and more. For example, if you search for a 6-day trip, we’ll suggest you extend by one day to take advantage of a weekly discount.
Recommended filters – We’ve redesigned search filters with recommendations based on your past bookings and current search. We’ve also made it easier to view, add, and remove filters.
Personalized listing highlights – When you view a listing, we’ll highlight the details that are relevant to your search-like a playroom or backyard when traveling with kids.
All-new checkout – Local payments – You’ll soon have access to more than two dozen ways to pay around the world, including Vipps in Norway, Mobile Pay in Denmark, and MoMo in Vietnam.
“For decades, travel apps have been one-size-fits-all. We’re changing that today,” said Brian Chesky, Airbnb Co-founder and CEO. “With dozens of new features, this is the beginning of a more personalized Airbnb.”
Upgrades for hosts
We’re also launching more than 20 upgrades for hosts based on their feedback, including:
Price tips – View suggested prices based on similar listings in your area, and choose to apply the tips with just a tap.
New quick replies – Use customizable templates to quickly send welcome messages, check-in details, directions, and more.
Earnings dashboard – Create custom reports to view your earnings, filter income by type, and easily see when payments are on the way.
2024 Winter Release availability
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In line with the digital-first marketing strategy, the brand campaign will run across social media, TV and top news platforms reaching out to the customers across India
Highlighting the Philips’ product propositions across segments, the TVC will be launched with an exclusive anthem
Driven by innovation, legacy and leadership the campaign is titled ‘Hum raaton mein sooraj ugaate hain’ further to #BrighterLivesBetterWorld vision
Ahead of the festive season, Signify, (Euronext: LIGHT) the world leader in lighting, unveiled its new television commercial (TVC) starring their brand ambassador, the Indian cricket legend, Rahul Dravid. The campaign highlights Signifys commitment to innovation, leadership excellence, tradition, festivities and the partnership with Rahul Dravid who seamlessly embodies the same spirit.
Signify, the world leader in lighting, unveiled its new television commercial, starring Indian cricket legend Rahul Dravid. Titled ‘Hum raaton mein sooraj ugaate hain’
Focused on bringing in real life impact through the power of light, the high-energy TVC ‘Hum raaton mein sooraj ugaate hain‘showcases Rahul Dravid in various real-life scenarios, illuminating the lives of people across different walks of life. From illuminating a bustling rooftop party to guiding a young hockey player in a stadium to making roads brighter and safer at night, Dravid’s presence symbolizes Signify’s dedication to bringing light and joy into every corner of life.
Power packed with an energetic exclusive anthem the entire TVC revolves around the themes of customer centricity, leadership, product excellence, safety, energy-efficiency, and innovative lighting solutions. The campaign aims to inspire consumers to make choices that enhance their day-to-day lives through the power of light, contributing to a brighter and sustainable future.
Commenting on the launch of the power packed campaign launch Sumit Joshi, CEO & MD – Signify, Greater India, remarked, “At Signify, we are committed to the well-being of our consumers, and with Rahul Dravid as our new ambassador, we are thrilled and confident that we will deepen the trust of millions of households. His unwavering commitment to excellence, his passion for the game, and his ability to inspire millions resonate deeply with our brand values. This TVC beautifully captures the power of light to illuminate not just spaces, but also lives and dreams across India.”
Highlighting the strategy behind the partnership for the campaign, Nikhil Gupta, Head of Marketing, Strategy, Govt. Affairs & CSR – Signify, Greater India, said, “In todays rapidly evolving lighting industry, Signify has consistently believed in pushing the boundaries of innovation. Our partnership with Rahul reinforces and our vision to creating a brighter future through cutting-edge lighting solutions. We are excited to bring this campaign ahead of the festival season in India as a celebration of the transformative power of light and how it can empower individuals and communities. Looking forward to seeing the phenomenal response from our customers as they continue to shower us with their trust, love and appreciation.”
Rahul Dravid, Former Captain and Coach of the Indian National Cricket Team, reflecting on the partnership, said, “I’m honored to be a part of the Signify family, Signify’s commitment to innovation, consumer well-being and sustainability resonates deeply with me on and off the field. This TVC showcases the incredible impact that light can have on our daily experiences, and I am glad to be a part of this journey contributing to Signifys mission to illuminate the world sustainably.”
The TVC will be aired across digital platforms and television channels across India. The conceptualization of the film with captivating shots featuring Rahul Dravid are done by Signify’s creative agency Hashtag Orange.
Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals, consumers, and the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact systems and data-enabled services, deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. In 2023, we had sales of EUR 6.7 billion, approximately 32,000 employees and a presence in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We have been in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index since our IPO for seven consecutive years and have achieved the EcoVadis Platinum rating for four consecutive years, placing Signify in the top one percent of companies assessed. News from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on X, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.