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Month: April 2024

Governance

Sushil Sharma to be appointed as CMD of SJVN Limited

Observenow Desk April 10, 2024

Sushil Sharma, presently serving as Director (Projects) at SJVN Limited, has been chosen to assume the role of Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) at the company, as recommended by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB). Sharma, a graduate in Mechanical Engineering from VNIT, Nagpur, brings over three decades of extensive experience from various organisations, including SJVN.

Beginning his career in 1990 in the H.P. State Technical Education Service, Sharma joined SJVN in January 1994 as an Assistant Engineer, steadily climbing the ranks to the position of General Manager (Mechanical). His nomination for the CMD post follows a meticulous selection process conducted by PESB, where Sharma emerged as the preferred candidate among nine contenders from diverse sectors.

During his tenure at SJVN, which commenced in August 2020 as Director (Projects), Sharma has made significant contributions to major projects such as the Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station, the Rampur Hydro Power Station, and the Naitwar Mori Hydro Power Station. His expertise has been instrumental in the successful execution of these projects, highlighting his proficiency in the hydro power sector.

 

 

Tags: CMDObserveNow GovernanceObserveNow MediaSJVN

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Education

Northern India’s premium universities groom students with industry-ready skillsets; finds ObserveNow Media

Sheeba Chauhan

With approximately 1200 universities, India stands as one of the largest education systems globally, ranking second in the higher education ecosystem. The higher education landscape plays a significant role in nurturing the intellectual and social capital of a nation, equipping its youth with knowledge, expertise, and essential skills to excel in various industries, thereby fueling the nation’s economic growth.

India is actively enhancing its education sector, evident through various initiatives such as Twinning, Joint, and Dual Degree Programs facilitated by collaborations between Indian and foreign universities under the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations. Furthermore, regulations from the UGC, as outlined in the Draft Regulations of 2023 will allow foreign universities to establish physical campuses in India.

Moreover, the National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020 advocates for a range of initiatives, including fostering research and teaching collaborations, facilitating faculty and student exchanges with high-quality international educational institutions, and forging mutually advantageous Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with foreign nations. Additionally, the NEP emphasizes the establishment of International Student Offices at each Higher Education Institution (HEI) to extend a warm welcome and provide support to students from across the globe.

Today, India shows a higher percentage of women in STEM fields (43%) as compared to United States (34%), United Kingdom (38%), Germany (27%), and France (32%). Also, As per the Economic Survey (2022-23) of India, the GDP growth is 6-6.8 % in 2023-24. The government also plans to increase the number of higher institutions like IIT, IIM, and IIIT. To recognize the wonderful efforts that Higher Education Institutes(HEIS) are contributing to equip the youth with the power of knowledge, ObserveNow presents some of the leading HEIs from Northern India. 

Chandigarh University: Chandigarh University (CU) is a leading Indian Institution offering its students a unique amalgamation of professional and academic excellence under the guidance of Satnam Singh Sandhu, Chancellor, Chandigarh University, Prof. (Dr.) R. S. Bawa, Pro-Chancellor, Chandigarh University. They offer a wide spectrum of programs paired with flexibility, experiential learning and interdisciplinary orientation to emancipate our students to explore their interests and pursue dream careers. At CU, they are grooming students to be socially sensitive through intellectually challenging and contemporary diverse courses.

 

Chitkara University: At Chitkara University under the guidance of Ashok K     Chitkara, Chancellor, Chitkara University; Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor, Chitkara University, Chandigarh focuses intensively on getting every student industry-ready. With more than 1500 recruiters visiting their campus every year, their graduates have the support, resources, and facilities they need in a constantly changing world and job market. Chitkara University offers a world of learning that will help students reach their goals.

Sushant University: Since 2012 Sushant University (Erstwhile Ansal University) has been nurturing students from across the world to realise their dreams. With the support of Jai Shankar Mishra, IAS(Retd.), Chairman & Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Sharma, Pro Vice-Chancellor & Registrar, Sushant University offers a variety of specially designed courses that offer students a fulfilling career, and not merely a degree. The university has fostered academic collaborations with 15+ international institutions across the globe.

UPES: Under the guidance of Dr. Sunil Rai, Chancellor & Dr. Ram Sharma, Vice Chancellor, UPES, Dehradun, they foster a dynamic and vibrant ecosystem with innovative ideas, lifelong learning and global perspectives. As per the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2023, the Ministry of Education, India, UPES has been ranked 52, with a rank of 54 in engineering and a rank of 39 in management. 

Quantum University: Quantum University unfolds a whole new age of learning! It takes into account your aspirations and your passions. Under the guidance of Ajay Goyal, Chancellor, & Dr Vivek Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Quantum University, the university offers a unique interdisciplinary environment where one can study computer science with economics, agriculture with entrepreneurship, or MBA with cyber security. Hundreds of such combinations are waiting to be explored.

 

Lovely Professional University: With the immense support of Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Chancellor, and Dr. Aman Mittal, Vice President of Lovely Professional University, LPU has built the infrastructure of global standards, internationally benchmarked curricula, rich diversity of students, and innovative pedagogy for participative and experiential learning with a focus on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Ashoka University: Ashoka University’s Liberal Arts and Sciences education enables critical thinking, complex problem solving, effective communication, teamwork, and innovation for impact and change. The Ashoka University education with years of experience of Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Chancellor, Ashoka University, and its excellent faculty provide students with foundational knowledge and disciplinary depth while encouraging them to find unexplored connections across disciplines, leading to innovative outcomes. 

Plaksha University: Under the guidance of Dr. Rudra Pratap, Founding Vice Chancellor, Plaksha University, the university focuses on reimagining technology education by integrating interdisciplinary technology curriculum, liberal arts, and design with hands-on pedagogy and self-development. At Plaksha, they are addressing grand challenges structured around real-time problems, impact-focused research, and tomorrow’s technologies.

Geeta University: Geeta University comes from the Lineage of the Geeta Group of Institutions, A giant educational hub with a presence since 1985. They have laid the runway for thousands of dreams taking off to the destination of careers with a journey marked with expertise, experience, and excellence. With the support and guidance of Ankush Bansal, Pro-Chancellor, Geeta University & Prof. (Dr.) Vikas Singh, Founding Vice Chancellor, Geeta University, Panipat, Geeta University is the culmination of aspirations, ambitions, and an honest attempt at creating a world-class professional curriculum spread over an invigorating campus environment.

Disclaimer: The organizations/ individuals listed above are not presented in ascending order. Their placement within the list does not imply any hierarchy, ranking, or preference.

 

 

Tags: EducationINDIAN UNIVERSITYNEPObserveNow EducationTOP UNIVERSITIES

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HR

Kraft Heinz appoints Priyanka Kulkarni as HR Head, India

Observenow Desk

Kraft Heinz, a global food and beverage corporation, has named Priyanka Kulkarni as the Head of Human Resources for its operations in India.

Priyanka brings to the role extensive experience in human resource management spanning over 18 years, with a diverse background across industries such as IT/ITES, Healthcare, Pharma, and Entertainment. Her expertise lies in various areas including facilitating HR support for new ventures, negotiating contracts, providing HR assistance during mergers and acquisitions, managing TUPE/ARD transitions, ensuring compliance with statutory regulations, developing talent acquisition strategies, and driving global HR transformation and change initiatives.

Confirming her appointment Kulkarni stated on linkedin  “Day 1’s are always special as they signify new beginnings, and what better day than the Hindu New Year to share this journey? Wish everyone a Happy Gudi Padwa, Ugadi, or equivalent, and would like to leverage this opportunity to share that I am thrilled to embark on a new journey as the HR Leader at Kraft Heinz India GCC!”

“Look forward to fostering an environment where talent thrives, collaboration & innovation are encouraged, and teams excel. Let’s grow and create a brighter future together!”, she further added.

Prior to joining Kraft Heinz, Priyanka served as the Head of Human Resources at Arcolab, and has held HR positions at DCX Technologies, Dell, IBM India, Credit Suisse, BIG Animation, and Piramal Enterprises. She holds a post-graduate degree in Human Resources from Welingkar Institute of Management and an M.Sc in Psychology from Annamalai University.

Tags: HRHR APPOINTMENTKraft HeinzOBSERVENOW HR

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Education

IIT Madras Ventures Globally with Launch of Research Foundation

Observenow Desk

Indian Institute of Technology, Madras is starting a foundation called the IIT Madras Research Foundation to become more known worldwide. This foundation will help new businesses from the institute get into global markets, find funding, and get research support. Thirumalai Madhavnarayan, who knows a lot about running businesses and technology, will be the first CEO.

The main aim of the foundation is to make IIT Madras better known globally, encourage new ideas and businesses, and work closely with companies and researchers. This matches India’s goal of doing well in startups, according to Prof V Kamakoti, who leads IIT Madras.

The foundation will focus on things like getting patents for new ideas, helping startups from IIT Madras, and looking at ideas for sustainable growth. It will also help these startups get known around the world.

Prof Mahesh Panchagnula thinks this foundation will change not just the institute but the whole country. With Mr. Madhav Narayan’s long experience in running businesses globally, the foundation will make a big difference.

Prof Raghunathan Rengaswamy believes this is an important step in making the institute more international. Mr. Narayan plans to bring new ideas, work with companies, and team up with researchers through the foundation.

His past successes in helping governments with digital plans and making important partnerships in the technology world show he’s good at leading and well-respected. This new effort shows IIT Madras is serious about supporting new ideas and businesses worldwide, and the foundation will make a big impact on this.

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BFSI

RBI Maintains Status Quo on Monetary Policy Rates Amidst Strong Economic Momentum

Siddharth Mala

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) concluded its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting on April 5, 2024, with the decision to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 6.50 per cent. The standing deposit facility (SDF) rate remains steady at 6.25 per cent, and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate are maintained at 6.75 per cent.

The MPC, in its assessment of the current and evolving macroeconomic situation, acknowledged the robust momentum in the domestic economy. Real gross domestic product (GDP) expanded at 7.6 per cent in 2023-24, driven by buoyant domestic demand and strong investment activity. Manufacturing and construction sectors were particularly notable contributors to gross value added growth, which recorded a 6.9 per cent increase.

Looking ahead, expectations of a normal south-west monsoon are anticipated to support agricultural activity, while manufacturing and services sectors are expected to maintain their momentum. Private consumption is forecasted to strengthen further, supported by a pick-up in rural activity and steady urban demand. Despite geopolitical tensions and volatility in international financial markets posing risks to the outlook, the MPC projects real GDP growth for 2024-25 at 7.0 per cent, with evenly balanced risks.

Recalling the past couple of years Raoul Kapoor, Co-CEO, Andromeda Sales and Distribution Pvt Ltd stated “The RBI’s policy has closely mirrored that of the Federal Reserve, and this trend persists. However, in the current Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, the governor highlighted how inflation is gradually decreasing and emphasized the robust growth in India’s economic landscape.”

On the inflation front, headline inflation softened to 5.1 per cent during January-February 2024, with food inflation edging up primarily due to certain food items. The MPC anticipates continued uncertainties in food prices and acknowledges the impact of unpredictable supply-side shocks from adverse climate events. However, assuming a normal monsoon, CPI inflation for 2024-25 is projected at 4.5 per cent, with risks evenly balanced.

These domestic conditions of diminishing inflation and promising growth prospects set the stage for a potential rate cut. We anticipate that in the upcoming MPC meetings, the RBI will likely announce a rate cut ranging from 25 to 50 basis points, provided the current conditions continue to improve. Interestingly, the impact of rate increases has had minimal effect on the demand for home loans, which continues to rise. At Andromeda, we have observed approximately a 25% growth in the total disbursement of loans, including home loans, loans against property, and personal loans, during FY24, further added Kapoor.

Dr. Shashanka Bhide, Dr. Ashima Goyal, Dr. Rajiv Ranjan, Dr. Michael Debabrata Patra, and Shri Shaktikanta Das voted to keep the policy repo rate unchanged and to remain focused on withdrawal of accommodation to ensure inflation progressively aligns with the target, while supporting growth. Prof. Jayanth R. Varma voted for a reduction in the policy repo rate by 25 basis points and for a change in stance to neutral.

 

Tags: BFSIMonetary policyMonetary policy committeeObserveNow BFSIrepo rates

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Education

ViewSonic Unveils EdSync: Tailored Software Revolutionizes Indian Education

Observenow Desk April 9, 2024

New Delhi: ViewSonic Corp has broadened its range of offerings with the launch of ViewSonic EdSync, a unified platform merging Learning Management System (LMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) functionalities. Specifically crafted for the Indian educational landscape, this software serves as a comprehensive solution for school management operations. 

Having entered the Edtech sector in 2018 with ViewBoard (IFP) hardware, ViewSonic has maintained its position as a leader since 2020. The introduction of myViewBoard in 2019 expanded their reach, offering a versatile learning software suite adaptable to both online and physical learning environments. ViewLessons, launched in 2023, further enriched their educational ecosystem with tailored content aligned with the National Education Policy and inclusive of CBSE and ICSE lesson plans.

EdSync represents a comprehensive solution catering to all stakeholders within and outside educational institutions. With its high level of customization and integration of various modules, EdSync aims to streamline daily operations while replacing multiple standalone software solutions. Its AI-powered features, including automated timetable generation and chatbot assistance, aim to alleviate administrative burdens and enhance focus on student engagement.

Muneer Ahmad, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, ViewSonic India, said, “We at ViewSonic are always thriving with our aggressive approach to build a strong presence in the education space. Over the past five years, we have transformed our education segment from hardware to service provider. Bringing a complete solution to the Indian education landscape, we have tailored our education segment with innovation and have created ‘Ecosystem as a Service’ (EaaS). Our target is not only restricted to educators but has moved beyond focusing on other stakeholders. Our newly introduced EdSync is an end-to-end multiple solution provider equipped with user-friendly interface, robust features, and comprehensive support across stakeholders. With our new software we are leveraging our expertise to provide a holistic solution to educational institutions. We hope to enhance learning outcomes and daily operations of educational institutions”.

EdSync’s key features include a comprehensive LMS, student tracking, admission, fee, and transport management, ensuring data security through centralized storage and cloud-based ERP systems. Its scalability and mobility features enable seamless adaptation to evolving needs and real-time access to essential tasks via dedicated mobile applications. The Marketplace feature connects schools with quality educational resources, enriching the educational experience.

 

Tags: AIEdtechEnterprise Resource PlanningMachine LearningOBSERVENOW

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Governance

NTPC launches new edition of Girl Empowerment Mission

Observenow Desk

NTPC Limited, India’s largest integrated power company, is preparing to launch the latest iteration of its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, the Girl Empowerment Mission (GEM). This program, in line with the Government of India’s Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative, aims to address gender inequality by nurturing the aspirations of girls and facilitating their exploration of opportunities. GEM achieves this objective through a month-long workshop held during summer vacations, providing a platform for comprehensive upliftment and development of young girls.

Commencing in April 2024, the new edition of GEM will include approximately 3,000 deserving children from disadvantaged backgrounds at 42 designated locations of the power sector PSU, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to over 10,000. What began as a pilot project in 2018 with just three locations and 392 participants has evolved into a nationwide movement, overcoming challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 to expand its reach and impact continuously. To date, GEM has positively impacted 7,424 girls, with participation steadily increasing each year. In 2023, 2,707 girls across 40 locations of NTPC, spanning 16 states of India, took part in the workshop.

The primary focus of the Mission is to empower girls through diverse interventions, aiming to recognize and nurture their leadership qualities to prepare them for the future. The workshop emphasizes aspects like health, hygiene, safety, fitness, sports, and yoga. The GEM Workshop has received widespread acclaim for its holistic approach to skill development, confidence-building, and mentorship. By equipping girls with essential tools and unwavering support, NTPC endeavors to create a brighter future for upcoming generations, empowering them to become agents of change who influence not only themselves but also their families, communities, and the nation as a whole.

 

Tags: girl empowermentntpcOBSERVENOWObserveNow Governance

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Governance

Chandigarh: UT administration assigns additional charges to two IAS officers

Observenow Desk

The Excise & Taxation department, Chandigarh witnesses a significant administrative reshuffle as Ajay Chagti (IAS:2010:AGMUT) takes on the additional charge of Secretary, Excise & Taxation, relieving Dr. Vijay Namdeorao Zade (IAS:2002:PB). Chagti, with his extensive experience in various administrative domains including Personnel, Health, and Hospitality, is poised to bring strategic leadership to the department. His previous stint as Chief Executive Officer at CHB underscores his capability to navigate complex administrative landscapes.

In tandem, Rupesh Kumar (IAS:2019:AGMUT) assumes the mantle of Commissioner, Excise & Taxation, relieving Vinay Pratap Singh (IAS:2011:HY). Kumar’s background in agriculture and marketing, coupled with his experience in handling diverse portfolios such as the House Allotment Committee and Transport Authority, positions him as a dynamic leader for the department. His appointment reflects the government’s emphasis on leveraging administrative talent to drive innovation and efficiency in revenue administration.

These appointments come at a crucial juncture, signaling a strategic shift towards fresh leadership and proactive governance in the Excise & Taxation department. As Chagti and Kumar step into their new roles, expectations soar for their contributions towards streamlining operations, enhancing revenue collection, and ensuring compliance with taxation policies.

 

Tags: CHANDIGARHIASIAS TRANSFERObserveNow MediaTRANSFER

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BFSI

PNB Housing Finance Hits 300 Branches Nationwide

Observenow Desk

New Delhi: PNB Housing Finance has announced the successful expansion of its distribution network to 300 branches nationwide. This significant growth reflects a key achievement in its mission to offer accessible housing finance solutions to customers. With branches now spanning over 150 cities, PNB Housing Finance aims to help millions achieve their dream of home ownership and contribute to the country’s development. In the last four months of FY24 alone, PNB Housing Finance has added 100 branches, bringing the total to 300. 

It provides specialized financial services through 90 branches catering to Prime home loan customers and a strong network of 160 branches for its affordable housing segment, Roshni. Additionally, the company has ventured into the ‘Emerging Markets’ category, establishing 50 branches in select areas to capitalize on opportunities in high-yield customer segments.

Girish Kousgi, MD & CEO, PNB Housing Finance, said, “As an organization that recognizes the cherished aspiration of individuals to own a home, we strategically chose to strengthen our omni-channel presence and expand our distribution footprint to provide tailored housing finance solutions to our customers. Further, our wide network of 300 branches will allow us to leverage market opportunities across diverse consumer segments and maximize profitability for the organization. We are excited to advance in this journey and leap into the next phase of growth.”

PNB Housing Finance provides an extensive array of financial products such as home loans for individuals, loans against property, loans for non-residential premises, and fixed deposits tailored for both salaried professionals and self-employed individuals. The company’s branches are equipped with advanced technology systems and internal resources, ensuring smooth operations, efficient processes, and a solid governance structure, all aimed at delivering a seamless experience for customers.

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Exclusive

Beyond Cyber Defense, The Strategic Leadership of Today’s CISOs: An ObserveNow Exclusive

Sheeba Chauhan

In the ever-evolving landscape of global business, technological advancements have revolutionized operations, streamlining processes and empowering workforces. However, with this progress comes a darker shadow – the looming specter of cyber threats. No business, regardless of its size or sector, is immune to the insidious reach of cybercrime. While some attacks make headlines, many more slip under the radar, leaving organizations vulnerable and exposed.

In response to this escalating threat, the role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) has become indispensable. Once primarily a technical position, the CISO now finds themselves at the forefront of strategic decision-making, tasked with safeguarding not just data, but the very fabric of business continuity. According to Splunk’s CISO Report, a staggering 86% of CISOs acknowledge the profound evolution of their role, transforming into not just guardians of cybersecurity, but strategic leaders driving organizational resilience.

As regulatory pressures mount and the attack surface expands, the CISO’s responsibilities are set to soar even further. By 2027, Gartner predicts that nearly half of all CISOs will find their remits extending beyond cybersecurity alone. Today’s CISO is not merely a defender against digital threats; they are ambassadors of cyber resilience, translating technical jargon into the language of boardroom strategy.

In this era of perpetual digital transformation, the story of the modern CISO is one of adaptation, innovation, and unyielding determination to protect and propel the organizations they serve into a safer, more secure future.

With regards to the same, ObserveNow media presents some of the prominent CISO from varied industries who are making cyberspace a better place with their commendable work.

Anil Kumar Chief Information, Security Officer, Oberoi Group

He comes with a diverse expertise, spanning from naval technology to IT leadership in the hospitality sector. With a focus on customer-centric solutions, he drives information security and software quality assurance initiatives, ensuring compliance and efficient operations. Known for his strategic acumen and hands-on leadership, he excels in building and managing high-performing teams, implementing robust governance frameworks, and driving innovation to meet business objectives.

 

 

Ambuj Bhalla, CISO, Bharatpe 

As a seasoned cybersecurity leader with 20+ years across diverse sectors and top-tier organizations, he is honored with the Top 100 CISO awards in India. He has Specializing in program management, GRC, cyber defense, and operations. Passionate about scalable cybersecurity programs, engineering and business acumen to drive success in dynamic landscapes.

 

 

Neha Taneja, SGM & CISO, Hero Moto Corp

She boasts a diverse career spanning cybersecurity leadership roles at Cairn Oil and Gas, SBI Card, GE Capital, and KPMG US. With expertise in IT governance, compliance, and strategic planning, she’s known for her adeptness in safeguarding critical assets and operations. Her journey showcases her commitment to cybersecurity excellence, making her a trusted leader in the automotive and financial sectors.

 

 

Aditya Vardhan, CISO, Jindal Steel

With over 20 years of expertise, he excels in business acumen, governance, execution, and people management. As a Business Head, he oversees P&L, security offerings, business development, and operations. His extensive experience spans IT governance, risk, compliance, and information security across various industries like FMCG, engineering, energy, and ports. He is adept at aligning IT with business objectives, leading cross-functional teams across Asia, Middle East, and Africa. His skills include business management, consulting, cybersecurity architecture, risk management, and industry-specific security domains expertise in FMCG, BFSI, logistics, and more.

 

 

Kapil Madaan, Global Head – Information Security, Risk & Compliance(CISO & DPO), Max Healthcare

With extensive experience across Indian, US, and European markets, he is a certified dynamic technocrat specializing in cybersecurity, operations management, audit, IT governance, and more. His focus is on fostering trust through trusted products, platforms, and operating environments. Over two decades,he has witnessed the evolution of digital trust, shaping today’s cyber landscape. His  global leadership spans industries like healthcare, BFSI, telecommunications, manufacturing, and IT services.

Disclaimer: The organizations/ individuals listed above are not presented in ascending order. Their placement within the list does not imply any hierarchy, ranking, or preference.

 

Tags: CISOCYBER SECURITYHERO MOTO CORPOBSERVENOWObserveNow Governance

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