Hong Kong
As a national treasure, the giant pandas rarity and heartwarming, adorable appearance has captivated the world. In Hong Kong, the panda craze shows no signs of slowing down, from the anticipated arrival of two new pandas in December to the locally born panda twins earlier. After the successful summer exhibition “100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS Tour (Hong Kong)“, the creative brand AllRightsReserved (ARR) is once again setting the stage for a new wave of excitement by organising Hong Kong’s largest panda exhibition, PANDA GO! FEST HK. The exhibition will showcase 2,500 panda sculptures in eight unique designs.

Clockwise: Eight new panda sculpture designs, the New Pandas in their habitat: Ying Ying, Ke Ke, An An, and a teaser poster for the Special Edition Pandas

The PANDA GO! FEST HK kicked off with a grand welcoming ceremony on December 2 at one of the Hangars, within the restricted area of Hong Kong International Airport, where 2,500 pandas were warmly welcomed.

These pandas will be creatively displayed across various locations around Hong Kong. They are visiting iconic landmarks with four exhibitions throughout the city, starting in December.

It was inspired by Hong Kong’s own panda family, the PANDA GO! FEST HK also features six exclusive designs and introduces the special Hong Kong intellectual property (IP) – Panda Friends & Family Hong Kong (PFF HK) ARR invites both locals and tourists to dive into this immersive celebration that blends art, exhibition, and tourism. It promises not only a citywide celebration of the pandas’ unique charm but also an atmosphere filled with joy and hope.

Organizer ARR Returns to Curate Again, Continuing a Decade-Long Bond with Pandas

The connection between giant pandas and the creative brand AllRightsReserved (ARR) runs deep. In 2014, ARR introduced the iconic “I AM HERE” giant panda installation in Chengdu, the home of pandas, which has since become a local landmark. Later that year, ARR launched the “1600 PANDAS WORLD TOUR IN HONG KONG: CREATIVITY MEETS CONSERVATION,” captivating audiences across multiple cities worldwide and pioneering a new exhibition format by appearing at landmark locations through a series of flash exhibitions. For generations, pandas have been cherished as close companions by the people of Hong Kong, holding special meaning for both ARR and the citys residents.

Now, a decade later, with the arrival of four new members, the total number of giant pandas has been brought to six. Also, thanks to global panda conservation efforts, the giant panda population has now grown to over 2,500. This includes wild pandas, which have increased from around 1,600 to approximately 1,900, and over 600 captive pandas. Despite these advancements, pandas remain exceedingly rare.

Panda Go! Fest HK Returns with Eight New Panda Designs as 2,500 Pandas “On the Go”! As a result, ARR has decided to bring 2,500 panda sculptures back with a fresh new look. Continuing with Hong Kong as the central hub, ARR is set to create the city’s largest panda-themed exhibition yet, gathering panda lovers and art enthusiasts while spreading panda culture to every corner of Hong Kong. For the PANDA GO! FEST HK, ARR has designed eight new panda designs, which will form a creative collection of 2,500 panda sculptures.

Visitors will have the chance to spot traces of giant pandas at various iconic landmarks across Hong Kong, bringing art closer to daily life and raising awareness about panda conservation. The highlight of the event is the appearance of 2,500 pandas in four public exhibitions starting from December 7, where they will meet locals and visitors alike. For details, visitors can check the official website pandago-fest.com.

The Exclusive Hong Kong IP, Panda Friends & Family Hong Kong, will Make Its Adorable Debut

When visiting the PANDA GO! FEST HK exhibitions, you will notice six particularly familiar and charming pandas among the crowd. ARR has specially created six new characters for Panda Friends & Family Hong Kong (PFF HK), an exclusive Hong Kong IP inspired by the city’s panda family. These characters include Ying Ying, Le Le, and the newly added members-Keke*, An An*, and the twin pandas, “Big Sister*” and “Little Brother*” (*existing names). Each character incorporates their distinct personalities and physical traits with anthropomorphic elements, blending local cultural and lifestyle features to create a one-of-a-kind Hong Kong exclusive IP.

PFF HK will not only be part of the exhibition but also serve as Hong Kongs giant panda ambassadors. This IP may appear in other panda-related events hosted by various organisations. ARR has gifted this IP to Hong Kong. Organisations are incorporating PFF HK into different settings, actively driving culture and tourism. This initiative aims to spread joy, boost the economy, and infuse new energy into Hong Kong. During this event, all royalties generated from commercial activities will be fully donated to Ocean Park to support giant panda conservation efforts.

This exhibition also features renowned French artist Paulo Grangeon as the artistic consultant. With his meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of artistic creation, he has further refined and elevated the essence of pandas, ensuring that every sculpture and movement captures the pandas spirit to the fullest.

PANDA GO! Fest HK has also invited 11 renowned figures from various fields to create one-of-a-kind special-edition panda designs. The lineup includes Pharrell Williams, a renowned musician, artist, producer, and fashion designer; Huang Bo, a celebrated actor and director; Du Juan, a supermodel and actress; and Kasing Lung, the artist behind the creation of LABUBU, among others.

Most of these special-edition panda sculptures will be auctioned online for charity, with the highest bidder winning. Proceeds from the auction, with no deductions, will be donated in full to Ocean Park, supporting giant panda conservation efforts. Details of the charity sale will be announced later.

A National Treasure Promoting Cultural Exchange

The giant panda, a national treasure, carries profound cultural and ecological significance. As a Class I protected animal in China, the panda is an endemic species found only in the bamboo forests of Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu provinces. Its rarity makes it incredibly precious. Symbolising good fortune and friendship, pandas often serve as cultural ambassadors, gifted to countries around the world. The two pairs of pandas previously sent to Hong Kong have accompanied generations of locals, and the new arrivals will continue to bring joy to the people of Hong Kong.

About Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB)

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is a government-subvented body tasked to market and promote Hong Kong as a travel destination worldwide and enhance visitors experience once they arrive. These include making recommendations to the Government and other relevant bodies on the range and quality of visitor facilities.

The HKTB’s missions are to maximise the social and economic contribution made by tourism to the community of Hong Kong and to consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a unique, world-class, and most desired destination.

HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers, has released the latest edition of Life Freedom Index (LFI). The LFI is a study that was established by HDFC Life in 2011. This index measures the level of ‘financial freedom’ among Indian consumers, and has been instrumental in providing deep insights into the ever-evolving financial needs of consumers across segments. It covers key adult life-stages, bucketed into three cohorts: Young Aspirants, Proud Parents, and Wisdom Investors.

Vishal Subharwal – Group Head Strategy & Chief Marketing Officer, HDFC Life

The LFI comprises four sub-indices:

• Financial Awareness & Familiarity Index

• Financial Planning Index

• Financial Sufficiency & Adequacy Index

• Financial Liberty Index

This edition (2024) of the study was conducted by NielsenIQ across 15 cities (good representation of 4 zones, and Tiers 1, 2, 3) with 2076 respondents.

The latest 2024 study reveals that the Life Freedom Index stands at 70.8, (up by 9 points as compared to 2021). This upward movement indicates a bounce-back in consumer sentiment after the pandemic, and an overall improvement in terms of confidence in consumers’ financial outlook.

This upward movement is attributed to growth across all of LFI’s sub-indices, particularly Financial Planning and Financial Sufficiency & Adequacy indices. However, the relatively lower growth in the Financial Awareness & Familiarity Index highlights the need for better knowledge of financial products.

Another aspect where LFI throws light is the list of top priorities for consumers. Children’s financial security, fitness (both physical and mental) and improving one’s standard of living feature on this list. An interesting development noticed is that retirement planning is gradually gaining importance as a financial responsibility, becoming more important with age. While planning for retirement, consumers are taking into account the expenses towards health, daily living, and supporting children.

In terms of ranking among consumer segments, as per the LFI, Wisdom Investors are at the top, displaying maximum growth, followed by Young Aspirants and Proud Parents.

One of the highlights of LFI’s latest edition is that Tier 3 Consumers & Working women have displayed a notable increase in LFI, reflecting a positive shift in their financial planning and confidence.

The upward trend among Tier 3 consumers is likely to have been driven by improved financial access through digital advancements and greater connectivity.

The increase in the index for Working Women is attributed to easier access to financial education through digital advances and initiatives to empower women.

Since the last edition, HDFC Life has also been monitoring the Life Insurance Confidence Index, which measures the role of Life Insurance in the consumers’ financial planning & goal achievement. There has been a growth of 9.3 points in this index, which indicates the rising recognition of life insurance as a vital component of the financial strategy for individuals. This gain rides on the increased consumer confidence that life insurance provides, to meet financial needs and long term financial goals.

West Zone displays the highest index score, while East exhibits the highest growth. There has also been notable improvement in Tier 3 markets which denotes that life insurance is gaining significance as an important financial product. Overall, life insurance offerings are witnessing improved familiarity and needs such as financial security, returns, child’s future and maintaining lifestyle are the key triggers, driving life insurance purchase.

Click here for the full report.

Speaking on the launch of this study, Vishal Subharwal – Group Head Strategy & Chief Marketing Officer, HDFC Life said, “We created Life Freedom Index (LFI) to serve as an indicator of overall financial preparedness among Indian consumers. We have seen the Index evolve over the years, and with each new study, we mostly found the levels of consumer confidence in terms of financial preparedness, improving. This indicates development and a positive approach towards the future with a focus on financial security.

This year’s study has highlighted improved levels of financial freedom among Working Women and in Tier 3 markets. The Life Insurance Confidence Index has grown significantly, reiterating the importance of life insurance in a well-rounded financial plan. We believe this will give further impetus to our efforts at HDFC Life and across the life insurance industry in our journey towards ‘Insurance for All by 2047‘.”

Sushil Sharma, a visionary leader and CEO & Founder of Marwari Catalysts, is on a mission to redefine the landscape of India’s startup ecosystem by empowering entrepreneurs beyond the country’s major cities. With a deep commitment to transforming the narrative around innovation in Tier II and III cities, Sushil works closely with founders, understanding their unique challenges and aspirations. He does not just advocate for growth in these regions; he lives in them, embodying his belief that these cities hold untapped potential for creating the next wave of successful startups.

Meet Sushil Sharma: Revolutionizing Indias Startup Ecosystem and making Rajasthan the change catalyst of the startup world

Sushil Sharma entered the industry by investing in startups, facing a few setbacks early on but refusing to quit. Over time, he evolved from a struggling founder to an angel investor, now recognized as the most influential name in the startup ecosystem.

Marwari Catalysts: A Hub for Scalable Growth

Marwari Catalysts, India’s fastest-growing Startup Accelerator & Rajasthan’s biggest Ecosystem Player, has established itself as a powerful player in fostering innovation and scaling businesses. As Rajasthan’s first SEBI-approved CAT-1 AIF, it provides unparalleled resources and mentorship to help startups with established revenue after histories grow 10X to 100X. With a team that includes successful founders, industry experts, and professionals who have been instrumental in building unicorns, Marwari Catalysts offers startups the support they need to become formidable ventures. The organization bridges the gap between traditional businesses and new-age ventures, creating opportunities for mutual growth.

Global Reach and Mentors with Skin in the Game

Under Sushil’s leadership, Marwari Catalysts supports a diverse portfolio of over 90+ startups and 500+ co-founders clubs, connecting them with international markets in the US, UK, and the Middle East. This global outlook helps entrepreneurs from smaller towns tap into opportunities across the globe.

One of the accelerator’s key strengths lies in its pool of mentors, who not only offer expert guidance but also have a stake in the startups they support. This hands-on involvement nurtures accountability and drives growth. “Our mentors have skin in the game; they understand the challenges firsthand and provide tailored guidance to our founders,” says Sushil. The success of Marwari Catalysts is evident in its track record, where successful exits significantly outnumber failures, proving its reliability as an accelerator.

Several startups from Marwari Catalysts have made waves on Shark Tank India, securing funding and receiving immense appreciation from the Sharks. In Season 1, Nuskha Kitchen impressed with its health & wellness solutions; in Season 2, Jaipur Watch Company showcased its bespoke luxury craftmanship; and in Season 3, TURMS stood out with its NanoTech approach. These success stories highlight Marwari Catalysts’ knack for nurturing impactful startups.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

Inclusivity is a core tenet of Marwari Catalysts, with women entrepreneurs making up 35% of its portfolio. Sushil believes that women are key to creating a resilient and innovative India. He advocates for equal access to mentorship and resources for women, creating a more equitable business ecosystem. “Women entrepreneurs are critical for building a stronger, more diverse startup landscape,” he emphasizes.

Resilience Through Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but it also showcased the resilience of startups in Tier II and III cities. Entrepreneurs in these regions leveraged digital transformation to find new avenues for growth, positioning themselves for long-term success. “Startups in Tier II and III cities were already well-positioned for resilience,” Sushil notes. “The pandemic opened doors for them, particularly with the rise of AI, IoT, and remote work solutions.”

Building a Global Startup Ecosystem

Marwari Catalysts, founded in Rajasthan, has expanded its reach and influence globally. Today, it serves as the backbone of India’s startup ecosystem, providing entrepreneurs with the resources they need to thrive on the world stage.Sushil envisions Marwari Catalysts as a key player in bringing global startups to India through reverse engineering, creating a bridge between Indian entrepreneurs and international markets. “We aim to position Indian startups as key players on the world stage,” he asserts, underscoring his vision of India becoming a global economic powerhouse.

A Future of Limitless Possibilities

Sushil Sharma exemplifies how immense potential lies beyond India’s metropolitan cities. From small-town roots, he has risen to lead the fastest-growing startup accelerator in India, reflecting his commitment to creating an environment where talent can flourish. “Creating value is essential for building meaningful relationships, and collaboration is the most powerful growth strategy,” he explains.

As the Indian startup ecosystem continues to evolve, Sushil Sharma’s efforts to empower entrepreneurs from smaller towns are helping shape an innovative future without boundaries. Through Marwari Catalysts, he is laying the foundation for an inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial landscape, where talent from India’s tier 2 and 3 cities converges to create lasting impact.

Join us in the journey of entrepreneurship and innovation.

The Elpro Sports Fest is an annual celebration of sports and teamwork at Elpro International School, aiming to inspire students and promote holistic development through active participation. This year, the festival, held from 16th November to 2nd December 2024, was bigger and better, engaging students from Grades 1 to 12 in a wide range of individual and team sports of their choice. The event ensures 100% participation, allowing every student to compete, learn, and have fun through sports.

The Elpro Sports Fest 2024

The idea of inviting celebrated sports personalities like Nitesh Kumar and Lakshya Sen was to motivate students by introducing them to real-life role models who exemplify perseverance, discipline, and excellence. The festival kicked off with a motivational opening ceremony featuring Nitesh Kumar, India’s Paralympic Badminton champion. His incredible story of resilience and success inspired everyone in attendance, setting a positive tone for the weeks ahead.

Throughout the fest, students participated in a variety of sports, including cricket, football, badminton, long jump, throwball, and more. The unique aspect of the Elpro Sports Fest is its inclusivity-ensuring that every student, regardless of grade or skill level, takes part in at least one individual and one team sport, based on their preferences.

The closing ceremony on 2nd December was equally inspiring, featuring Lakshya Sen, India’s rising badminton star. His journey from a young athlete to an international sensation motivated students to dream big, work hard, and pursue their goals with passion and determination. The ceremony also honored the winners of various events and acknowledged the hard work of all participants, organizers, and volunteers.

Dr. Vohra said, “The Elpro Sports Fest is about much more than winning medals. It’s about participation, growth, and building confidence in our students. We are proud to create a space where every child can explore their potential, work in teams, and develop a lifelong love for sports. The presence of inspiring athletes like Nitesh Kumar and Lakshya Sen makes this event truly special.”

The Elpro Sports Fest has become a platform that not only celebrates athletic talent but also fosters values like inclusivity, perseverance, and teamwork. It’s a shining example of how sports can bring communities together and leave a lasting impact on young minds. To know more about Elpro International School follow @elpro_international_school on Instagram.

Corporate India is facing increasing concerns over employee burnout, prompting organizations to seek effective wellness solutions. In response, Happiest Health has introduced a holistic wellbeing program, offering a 30-day complimentary experience to help companies address this critical issue. This program aims to enhance both physical and mental health, fostering a more balanced and productive workforce.

Arvind Krishnan, President & CEO, Wellness Business, Happiest Health

As stress, unhealthy lifestyles, and long work hours take a toll on corporate India, alarming health statistics paint a sobering picture with 30% of the population affected by diabetes or pre-diabetes and obesity rates climbing. Simultaneously, mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and workplace burnout are becoming increasingly prevalent, eroding employee productivity and satisfaction.

India’s workforce is amidst a wellness crisis. This reality underscores the need for organizations to invest in the physical and emotional wellbeing of their employees.

HappiZest by Happiest Health offers a comprehensive solution to help businesses address these growing challenges. By encouraging good lifestyle choices, the program focuses on achieving a healthier lifespan through exercise, meditation and healthy nutrition.

Why Choose HappiZest

Holistic Focus: Covers physical, mental, social, and financial wellbeing.

Disruptive Pricing: Affordable plans for businesses of all sizes.

Arvind Krishnan, President & CEO, Wellness Business, Happiest Health, said, “The alarming rise in lifestyle diseases and mental health issues among India’s workforce highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to employee wellbeing. At Happiest Health, we believe that a healthier, happier workforce is the foundation of a thriving organization. With our HappiZest program, we aim to provide companies with the right tools to address these challenges by fostering physical, mental, social, and financial wellness. By offering a 30-day free trial, we’re not just delivering a solution but inviting organizations to join a movement towards sustainable and impactful employee health.”

What sets HappiZest apart is their holistic and innovative approach to corporate wellness, combined with disruptive pricing that makes it accessible to businesses of all sizes. The program is built to address the multi-dimensional aspects of employee wellbeing, from stress management and financial health to fostering strong social connections and improving lifestyle choices.

This trial allows organizations to explore the benefits of a structured wellness initiative without any upfront cost. The program is designed to seamlessly integrate into workplace routines, ensuring that employees can easily adopt healthier practices.

Join the movement towards a healthier corporate India today!

About Happiest Health

Happiest Health is a global health & wellness knowledge enterprise promoted by Ashok Soota. Happiest Health provides credible and trustworthy health and wellness knowledge with views from globally renowned experts and doctors. The primary knowledge platforms are the daily newsletter, knowledge website, monthly print magazine, and summits. The wellness division of Happiest Health caters to corporates to achieve optimal employee well-being, fostering a happier, healthier, and more productive work environment. The newest addition to Happiest Health’s offering is its diagnostics services. Happiest Diagnostics is committed to a patient-centric approach and cutting-edge technology, with an aim to be the most trusted diagnostic partner in India.

With the holiday spirit in the air, McDonalds India (West & South) is marking a significant milestone – the first anniversary of its widely loved global loyalty program, My M Rewards. To celebrate this journey of loyalty and love, McDonald’s has launched an exciting new contest called Collect Quest, conceptualized and designed by OMD and DDB network teams. This initiative has been rolled out across various markets in Southeast Asia, to elevate customer engagement and transform dining into a thrilling adventure of rewards for its loyal fans.

McDonalds Collect Quest Contest on the McDonalds App

Over the past year, the ‘My M Rewards’ program has redefined the way customers interact with McDonalds, offering them with an array of exclusive benefits that underscores the brands commitment to delivering exceptional value and memorable dine-in experiences. With Collect Quest, McDonald’s takes this proposition a notch higher, introducing a gamified contest wherein participants can win big, including an iPad Air, a trip to Goa, Samsung S23 FE, and a range of other irresistible rewards.

Joining the fun is simple-customers need to enroll in My M Rewards by downloading the McDonalds App, make their first transaction at any McDonald’s store, and start earning badges tied to their favorite menu items!

Launched on December 1 and running until December 31, Collect Quest invites customers to earn and collect unique badges by indulging in their go-to McDonald’s orders. For example, ordering Desserts four times during the campaign qualifies members for the coveted Dessert Master badge, while burger enthusiasts can unlock the Burger Bro badge. Loyalty members who collect five unique badges during the contest period will stand a chance to win an iPad Air or a trip to Goa.

Arvind R.P., Chief Marketing Officer of McDonald’s India (W&S), said, “We are delighted to celebrate the first anniversary of My M Rewards, a program that has been embraced wholeheartedly by our customers. At McDonald’s India, we are always looking at ways to enhance the value a customer gets from the brand. This program Collect Quest seeks to further that objective. It also celebrates the incredible community of McFans we have built. We are confident it will not only excite our loyal members but also inspire new customers to join the rewarding journey.“

The Collect Quest contest is live at all McDonalds restaurants across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, and Gujarat, inviting fans in these regions to join the fun!

The McDonalds App, available on both Android and iOS, is the gateway for users to effortlessly track their points and redeem rewards. With every purchase, members earn points credited directly to their accounts, while exciting additional benefits such as daypart deals and happy hours are expected to launch soon – making every visit to McDonalds a step closer to exciting prizes and discounts.

With nearly 12 million downloads, the McDonalds App has cultivated a vibrant and dynamic user community, particularly among the younger demographic. These young and dynamic members have collectively earned millions of reward points, adding unparalleled value to their dining experiences.

As McDonald’s India celebrates this milestone, it reinforces its unwavering commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction and nurturing lasting relationships with its valued fans, ensuring that every interaction with the brand is met with delight and excitement!

About Westlife

Westlife Foodworld Limited (BSE: 505533) (WFL), formerly known as Westlife Development Ltd (WDL), focuses on setting up and operating Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) in India through its subsidiary Hardcastle Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. (HRPL). The Company operates a chain of McDonald’s restaurants in West and South India having a master franchisee relationship with McDonald’s Corporation USA, through the latter’s subsidiary.

About Hardcastle Restaurants Pvt. Ltd.

HRPL is a McDonald’s franchisee with rights to own and operate McDonald’s restaurants in India’s West and South markets. HRPL has been a franchisee in the region since its inception in 1996. HRPL serves over 200 million customers, annually, at its 408 (as of September 30, 2024) McDonald’s restaurants across 66 cities in the states of Telangana, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Goa along with parts of Madhya Pradesh and Union Territory of Puducherry and provides direct employment to over 11,000 employees. McDonald’s operates through various formats and brand extensions including standalone restaurants, drive- thrus, McCafe, 24×7, McDelivery, McBreakfast and dessert kiosks. The menu features Burgers, Wraps, Hot and Cold Beverages besides a wide range of desserts. Majority of the McDonald’s restaurants feature an in-house McCaf. The pillars of the McDonalds system – Quality, Service, Cleanliness and Value – are evident at each of the restaurants that HRPL operates.

Truecaller, the leading global communications platform, has appointed Gaurav Loomba as Indias Senior Director of Public Affairs. Gaurav joined Truecaller following a distinguished career as the AVP of Government and Public Affairs at Paytm, and he has also held positions at the National Payments Corporation of India and ICICI Bank. This appointment comes close on the heels of another seasoned industry veteran, Seema Jindal, joining from Bharti Airtel. Seema leads Truecaller’s Public Affairs mandate on the telecom business.

Gaurav Loomba joins truecaller as Senior Director of Public Affairs

With two decades of experience in financial services and digital payments, Gaurav was instrumental in fostering relationships with government and industry associations on policy and regulatory reforms in the sector, as well as managing CSR and ESG initiatives.

At Truecaller, Gaurav will work closely with government agencies to lead the implementation of a public affairs strategy that secures necessary regulatory and policy support for Truecaller’s sustained growth and innovation in India.

Speaking on his new role, Gaurav said, “I am pleased to announce my appointment as the Senior Director of Public Affairs at Truecaller. In this role, I will be tasked with enhancing the organisations engagement with government ministries and agencies. My primary objective will be to develop and implement strategies that ensure comprehensive policy and regulatory support, thereby reinforcing Truecallers commitment to the Indian market. “

Truecaller stays committed to India by continuing to expand the Public Affairs mandate in its largest market with over 383 million users. Gaurav will report directly to Kari Krishnamurthy, Truecallers Chief Commercial Officer.

Welcoming Senior Director of Public Affairs, Kari Krishnamurthy, Chief Commercial Officer at Truecaller, said, “Gaurav Loombas leadership in Public Affairs marks a pivotal step as we deepen our focus on India, our largest market. His regulatory expertise and ability to cultivate meaningful stakeholder engagement will strengthen our partnerships and advance our strategic goals in telecommunications.”

About Truecaller
Truecaller is an essential part of everyday communication for over 425 million active users, with more than a billion downloads since launch and close to 46 billion unwanted calls identified and blocked in 2023 alone. The company is headquartered in Stockholm since 2009 and has been publicly listed on Nasdaq Stockholm in October, 2021.

Visit www.truecaller.com for more information.

The 16th GRIHA Summit, the annual flagship event organized by GRIHA Council, commenced today in New Delhi, with a focus on the theme “Accelerating Climate Action in the Built Environment”. The Summit brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to explore innovative approaches for sustainable urban development and climate resilience in the construction and infrastructure sectors, addressing the challenges of climate change.

Shashwat magazine launch at the 16th GRIHA Summit 2024

This year’s theme underscores the critical role of transitioning the built environment towards sustainability as a cornerstone of effective climate action. As the 2030 deadline for global climate commitments nears and the 2050 target for decarbonizing the building and construction sector looms large, the summit provides a platform to explore opportunities for climate-resilient development, breaking the cycle of rising heat, energy demand, and carbon emissions.

The GRIHA Summit also aligns with India’s aspirational vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, a comprehensive roadmap that integrates sustainable urban development with the nation’s goals of economic growth, social progress, environmental sustainability, and good governance.

In her opening address, Dr Vibha Dhawan, President, GRIHA Council, and Director General, TERI, stated, “As a comprehensive platform, this summit facilitates deliberation on the interdependence of various stakeholders in building inclusive, climate-resilient infrastructure. Our overarching aim is to unite everyone in recognizing the vital role each individual and organization plays in combating climate change. As I often say, each stakeholder-each one of us-is contributing to the climate, for better or worse.”

Welcoming the gathering, Mr Sanjay Seth, Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, GRIHA Council and Senior Director, Sustainable Infrastructure Programme, TERI emphasized, “Every building, every design, and every choice we make has the power to redefine the future of our planet. Accelerating climate action in the built environment is not just a goal-it is our collective responsibility to shape a sustainable future for generations to come.”

In his Inaugural Address, Shri Abhay Bakre, Mission Director, National Green Hydrogen Mission, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, said, “The building sector stands out as one of the most promising sectors to act as an enabler of achieving our sustainability goals. GRIHA Council’s effective solutions and recommendations address critical issues of climate change which aligns with the national and global climate action goals. Builders, professionals, and stakeholders worldwide should aspire to achieve the benchmarks set by GRIHA ratings to drive sustainable practices.”

Ms Martine Aamdal Bottheim, Deputy Head of Mission and Minister Counsellor, The Royal Norwegian Embassy, in her special address highlighted Norway’s commitment to supporting sustainable solutions. She remarked, “Global discussions now focus on transitioning to zero carbon buildings, adopting circular economy principles, and enhancing urban climate resilience. The GRIHA summit is very relevant from this global perspective.” She further highlighted the excellent collaboration between Norway and India in the area of blue economy, circular economy, renewables, food security, research, and higher education.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between GRIHA Council and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), Ministry of Education, Government of India, to promote sustainability in KVS schools. The MoU was formalized by Shri Deepesh Gehlot, Joint Commissioner, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and Ms Shabnam Bassi, Deputy CEO & Secretary, GRIHA Council and Director, Sustainable Buildings, TERI. The partnership aims to transform KVS schools into green and sustainable campuses by implementing the GRIHA for Existing Schools rating system. This initiative will actively engage both teachers and students, fostering environmental awareness and sustainable practices within the school ecosystem.

Mr Sumit Bidani, Chief Executive Officer, Knauf India, in his special remarks, underscored, “Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is an absolute necessity. We believe innovation is key, which is why we are actively exploring advanced materials and solutions to tackle the challenges of climate change.”

Furthermore, an exhibition titled Sanchay was also inaugurated by the eminent dignitaries. It showcases two exhibitions - one highlighting the advancements in industry trends that are propelling a paradigm shift in sustainable materials and technologies, while the other features live models from an architectural design competition that traverses through the evolution of architectural features over time.

The occasion marked the unveiling of two key publications by the GRIHA Council- GRIHA V 6.0, and ‘Shashwat – Let Nature Be’, the Council’s annual magazine. GRIHA V. 6.0 integrates user feedback, market insights, and practical considerations to set new benchmarks for resource efficiency. This upgraded framework evaluates the development and operational efficiency of green buildings while assessing their economic feasibility, furthering the agenda for sustainable construction practices.

During the inaugural session, GRIHA award ceremony was also held wherein the GRIHA 5-star and 4-star Rated Projects were felicitated. Winners of the SHAPE Design Trophy were also awarded, which was organized on 8-9 November 2024 in collaboration with Vellore Institute of Technology and ZEMCH Network.

The first day of the summit featured thought-provoking discussions and deliberations on critical topics such as policy advocacy for a sustainable future, strategies for managing urban heat, biophilic architectural designs, and energy transitions. These sessions brought together leading industry experts, policymakers, academicians, and representatives from government and private institutions to explore actionable pathways for a climate-resilient built environment.

About GRIHA Council

GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) is jointly established by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India and TERI in 2007. It holistically evaluates the environmental performance of buildings over its entire life cycle based on qualitative and quantitative criteria, thereby providing a definitive standard for ‘green buildings’ and habitats. GRIHA has been developed for various building typologies considering the Indian climate and construction practices. India, in its NDC document submitted at COP 21 in Paris has highlighted GRIHA as an indigenous green building rating system developed in India. GRIHA is a part of the mitigation strategy for combating climate change in India’s “Nationally Determined Contributions” submitted to UNFCCC by the Ministry of Environment, Forests C Climate Change (MOEFCCC), Government of India. GRIHA has received accolades in spheres such as energy efficiency, site planning, conservation, and efficient utilization of resources.

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.

AND Academy, a one-of-its-kind design upskilling platform backed by the Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD), New Delhi, will be hosting its second Alumni & Learners’ Meet – AND Social: A Toast to Tomorrow on 14 Dec, from 11 am to 4 pm, in New Delhi. The academy’s only in-person annual meet has been renewed for a second chapter and will include insightful speaker sessions by industry biggies, networking opportunities, a convocation ceremony, and wrap-up with lunch.

AND Social 2024: A Toast to Tomorrow

The event’s keynote speaker, Shyam Attreya – UX Design Manager at Ernst & Young, will throw light on how designers can stay relevant in the ever-evolving field and offer insights into the varied working cultures that aspiring designers must prepare for. This will be followed by a panel discussion on the “Industrys Expectations from Early-Stage Design Professionals”. The speaker lineup for this includes Mukhrit Bhatara – Creative Director at AICL Communications, Aditi Garg – Brand Architect & Owner of the Studio Knowingly, Amber Krishan – Co-founder at THEM Consulting, and Jumana Vadnagarwala – Chief Strategy Officer at Kalolwala & Associates Private Limited.

On the second chapter of AND Social, CEO and Co-founder, Dr. Jitin Chadha, said, “Following the massive success of our first-ever learner & alumni meet in Dec 2023, we were encouraged to renew it for a second time. The learners at AND Academy defy typicality, representing a diverse range of backgrounds and specializations. We have commerce graduates upskilling in interior design and former assurance associates undergoing training in graphic design. What unites them is their curiosity, passion for design, and a strong drive to invest in their personal growth. And, with this meet, we intend to bring them all under one roof for an enlightening and fun winter afternoon of networking and discussions.”

AND Social 2024: Panel Discussion

AND Academy has also announced that admissions are now open for their next batch of learners for all their design courses in UI UX Design, Graphic Design, Interior Design, and Motion Graphic Design.

About AND Academy

Backed by a decade of experience in design education, AND Academy was founded in 2022 and offers professional upskilling courses in Graphic Design, UI UX Design, Interior Design, and Motion Graphics. Powered by live and interactive online classes, these courses combine an industry-relevant curriculum, expert mentorship, and practical training through project-based teaching to cater to the needs of graduates and working professionals from varied backgrounds. Course durations vary from 16 weeks to a year and focus on teaching learners to think like designers. The school steers away from pre-recorded lectures and the webinar mode of teaching, and instead recreates a studio-based learning atmosphere in the virtual space, ensuring accessibility, flexibility, and affordability for learners. Since its inception, AND Academy has touched the lives of 450+ learners from all over India as well as other parts of the world.

SKF to unveil a broad range of products and solutions to continue serving customers with more efficient, reliable, and sustainable technologies. You are welcome to join the webcast on December 11 – 12. The Tech and Innovation summit, a one-hour virtual event, themed “Turning motion into meaning”, puts the spotlight on innovations essential for addressing urgent global issues like climate change and resource scarcity.

Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO and Annika lme, CTO and Senior Vice President, Technology Development

Innovation and technology development is core at SKF. The Group’s strategy is designed to create significant customer value in targeted markets through sustained innovation leadership and increased efficiency. With a focus on empowering customers to transform their operations and drive greater sustainability, SKF has transformed its R&D portfolio so that more than 90% of the projects are focused on high-growth segments.

“Today, customers across industries are looking for solutions that promote greater decarbonization and sustainability. We will showcase technologies that pave the way for customers to meet their evolving needs and accelerate sustainable growth. By doing so, we are advancing our strategy through enhanced innovation in high-growth segments,” says Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO.

The Tech and Innovation summit focuses on tailored solutions aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions for customers in industries like railways, machine tools, metals, mining, industrial electrical systems, and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning).

“Exploring and maximizing the immense possibilities of technology to develop intelligent and clean solutions is what we do at SKF. We accelerate our efforts to develop and bring to market innovative solutions that enhance productivity, efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, and deliver sustainable value for industries and societies,” says Annika lme, CTO and Senior Vice President, Technology Development.

Read more on the Tech and Innovation Summit

The live webcast of the event will be available via this link – Join event

Dec 11: 10 am CET (EMEA),
10 am IST (India and Southeast Asia)
9 am PT / 12 pm ET (Americas)
11:30 – 12:30 WIB

Dec 12: 12 pm CST (China and Northeast Asia)

Products and solutions showcased at the Tech & Innovation summit

SKF Infinium – the next generation of bearings

SKF is transforming the manufacturing and use of bearings with a revolutionary model that maximizes material use through a circular approach. This model enables SKF Infinium – the next generation of bearings, where products have multiple lifecycles with significantly less energy consumption and raw materials compared to new manufacturing, reducing CO2 emissions through a circularity-focused design. Not only is this approach feasible, but it is also profitable for customers, as evidenced by SKF Infinium performing in some of the toughest operating environments. Link to press release

Innovative HVAC solutions to address climate change

Buildings are responsible for approximately 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making energy-efficient HVAC solutions crucial for reducing environmental impact. High speed electric motors on Magnetic bearings have emerged as a leading technology in addressing the energy efficiency and environmental challenges of the HVAC industry. Magnetic bearings eliminate friction and wear, needing no oil lubrication and ensuring a clean, pollution-free operating environment. Already used in energy, semiconductor, and machine tool industries, this technology can boost energy efficiency by over 95%, far exceeding standard motors. Magnetic bearings provide a reliable, efficient, and sustainable solution in response to concerns about climate change and energy use.

Improved reliability in railways

SKFs new range of tapered roller bearings, developed in close collaboration with the customer, enhances performance and durability for demanding track conditions. They can handle up to 1.5 times higher dynamic loads and reduce friction by up to 20% in output shaft bearings, leading to lower energy consumption and improved sustainability.

Performance-enabling solution for industrial electrical systems

With global businesses aiming for net zero, the need for electric solutions is increasing. At the summit, a key highlight is SKF Hybrid ceramic bearings designed for the evolving needs in electrification and automation. SKF Hybrid ceramic bearings, which integrate steel rings with engineered ceramic rolling elements, can reduce friction by up to 50% with an optimized machine design and boost operating speeds by up to 25% compared to all steel bearings. The bearings longevity, reduced energy use, and minimal maintenance requirements make them an efficient and sustainable choice for superior performance in many applications.

Advancing innovation with real-time load sensing in the mining sector

Mining companies need reliable data to optimize operations and meet growing demand for minerals. One of the most remarkable innovations introduced for the rapidly evolving mining industry is SKF Insight sensor-bearing system, providing real-time load data to the machine’s control system. This helps customers to increase output, efficiency, and productivity, thereby maintaining their competitiveness.

Innovative solutions for increased machine tool productivity

As precision, automation and miniaturization evolve, the demands on machine tools keep growing. Productivity is boosted by speed, so SKF has developed the innovative UltraFast series of Super-precision bearings, delivering a perfect balance between speed and stiffness for faster machine performance. These bearings also offer significantly reduced frictional torque and other features to support the drive towards reduced energy use.

A reply of the summit will be available after the event’s conclusion on the website for on demand watch.

About SKF

SKF is a world-leading provider of innovative solutions that help industries become more competitive and sustainable. By making products lighter, more efficient, longer lasting, and repairable, we help our customers improve their rotating equipment performance and reduce their environmental impact. Our offering around the rotating shaft includes bearings, seals, lubrication management, condition monitoring, and services. Founded in 1907, SKF is represented in approximately 129 countries and has around 17,000 distributor locations worldwide. Annual sales in 2023 were SEK 103,881 million and the number of employees was 40,396. www.skf.com.