NTT Launches Tsuzumi LLM through Microsoft Azure AI MaaS Offering

NTT DATA, a global digital business and IT services leader, recently launched Tsuzumi through the Microsoft Azure AI Models-as-a-Service (MaaS) offering. This development represents a significant milestone in their 25-year collaboration, dedicated to pioneering technological solutions that drive sustainability and innovation.

Tsuzumi is a Large Language Model (LLM) with robust capabilities in both Japanese and English. It's designed to address environmental and financial challenges typically associated with LLMs. By adjusting model size without compromising performance, Tsuzumi makes advanced AI technologies, including Generative AI, accessible to a wider range of users and applications. One of its key features is operational adaptability, allowing it to quickly adjust to specific use-case requirements and reduce service provisioning costs. Initially available in Japan on the Azure MaaS platform, plans are underway to expand Tsuzumi's availability to other regions.

Initially available in Japan on the Azure MaaS platform, plans are underway to expand Tsuzumi availability to other regions. Advancements also are planned in multimodality, which will further enhance Tsuzumi's sophisticated capabilities and ensure it meets the evolving needs of businesses across the globe.

Tsuzumi is available in two versions: an ultra-lightweight version with a parameter size of 600 million (0.6B) and a lightweight version with a parameter size of 7 billion (7B), which are 1/300 and 1/25th the size of Open AI's GPT-3's 175 billion (175B), respectively. The lightweight version is designed to perform high-speed inference on a single GPU, while the ultra-lightweight version can do so on a CPU. This design significantly reduces the costs required for training, inference, and tuning.

The word Tsuzumi is a Japanese hand drum with an hourglass-shaped body and two drum heads. The heads are taut and have cords that can be tightened or loosened to adjust the tension. The tsuzumi is used in Japanese traditional music, including Noh, Nagauta, geza, and folk music. Some types of tsuzumi include the ko-tsuzumi and the san-no-tsuzumi, which is played with a wooden stick.

"tsuzumi" is currently in the process of trademark application. Focusing on the processing performance of the Japanese language, it represents the expectation for language model technology that drives industrial development, similar to how the tsuzumi drum initiates the start of a Gagaku (ancient Japanese court music and dance) ensemble.

NTT DATA remains committed to continuous innovation, ensuring that Tsuzumi stays at the forefront of AI technology. Advancements are also planned in multimodality, further enhancing Tsuzumi's capabilities to meet evolving business needs globally.

The launch of Tsuzumi comes at time when Indian IT giant Tech Mahindra has also announced the launch of Indian languages focused LLM 'Project Indic' , starting with Hindi language and its dialects.

Nokia to Acquire Infinera for $2.3 Billion

Nokia has recently announced its plan to acquire Infinera, a global supplier of innovative open optical networking solutions and advanced optical semiconductors. The acquisition aims to create a highly scaled and truly global optical business with increased in-house technology capabilities and vertical integration.

The transaction values Infinera at $6.65 per share or an enterprise value of US$ 2.3 billion.

The acquisition has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both Nokia and Infinera. The deal is targeted to close during the first half of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

The acquisition strengthens Nokia's optical position, particularly in North America. It accelerates Nokia's customer diversification strategy, expanding its presence in the webscale market. Infinera has built a solid presence in the North America optical market, representing ~60% of its sales, which will improve Nokia’s optical scale in the region and complement Nokia’s strong positions in APAC, EMEA and Latin America.

Nokia expects the transaction to be accretive to its comparable operating profit and EPS in year, with over 10% comparable EPS accretion projected by 2027.

The combined business aims to accelerate the development of new optical products and solutions to benefit customers. Nokia believes this aligns well with its strategy, as webscale customers represent the fastest-growing segment of the market.

Overall, Nokia's acquisition of Infinera is a significant move to enhance its optical networking capabilities and expand its global reach.

In 2023, Nokia acquired Fenix Group by adding Fenix Group's innovative broadband tactical communications products to its existing solutions portfolio. Additionally, Nokia recently entered into an agreement with the French State to sell its leading submarine networks business, ASN.

Tech Mahindra Launches 'Project Indus' LLM, Phase-1 Designed for the Hindi and Its 37+ Dialects

Tech Mahindra has just introduced Project Indus, a large language model (LLM) designed to converse in a multitude of Indian languages and dialects.

Project Indus stands out due to its focus on Indic languages and dialects, making it a unique and valuable addition to the language model landscape.

To give a comparative perspective, the well-known multilingual models like BERT, XLM are trained on a mix of languages, including English, but may not perform optimally for specific Indic languages. Project Indus, on the other hand, is tailored specifically for Indic languages, ensuring better accuracy and understanding.

Similarly, powerful LLMs like GPT-3 and GPT-4 are primarily trained on English and other major languages. Project Indus focuses on Indic linguistic diversity, addressing nuances and dialects that these models might miss.

Existing Indic-specific models such as TALNet and IndicBERT are valuable but may lack the scale and versatility of Project Indus.

In summary, Project Indus bridges the gap by offering a robust, scalable, and context-aware solution for Indian languages. Its focus on dialects and industry applications makes it a promising addition to the AI landscape.

Moreover, Tech Mahindra is collaborating with Dell Technologies and Intel to implement the project’s ‘GenAI in a box’ framework globally. As part of this collaboration, Tech Mahindra will also leverage Intel® Gaudi®AI Accelerators and AI training assets to train the future generation of Indus models as well as skill up its employees on Intel product portfolio (hardware and software) to provide GenAI expertise to its wide network of global customers across industries.

1. Foundational Model for Indic Languages:

• Project Indus is an indigenous LLM developed by Tech Mahindra.
• The first phase of Indus LLM focuses on the Hindi language and its 37+ dialects.
• It aims to provide advanced AI solutions that enable enterprises to scale rapidly.

2. Innovative Deployment Framework: GenAI in a Box:

• The Indus LLM will be implemented using an innovative framework called 'GenAI in a box'.
• This solution simplifies the deployment of advanced AI models for enterprises.
• It leverages Dell Technologies' high-performance computing solutions, storage, and networking capabilities.

3. Intel Collaboration:

• The LLM also adopts Intel-based infrastructure solutions, including Intel® Xeon® Processors and OneAPI software.
• Future generation products leveraging CPU features like Intel® Advanced Matrix Extensions (AMX) are used.
• Tech Mahindra collaborates with Intel to train the future generation of Indus models and skill up its employees on Intel product portfolio.

4. Industry Applications:

• Project Indus aims to redefine AI-driven solutions across various industries.
• Use cases include customer support, experience, content creation, and more in sectors like healthcare, rural education, banking, finance, agriculture, and telecom.

5. Dell Technologies' Perspective:

Denise Millard, Chief Partner Officer at Dell Technologies, emphasizes the importance of accessibility and scalability for organizations adopting AI.

The Dell AI Factory supports LLMs like Project Indus, promoting growth, productivity, and innovation.

Tech Mahindra has been making significant strides in offering next-gen solutions to enterprises worldwide. The company recently announced that it is building an LLM to preserve Bahasa Indonesia, the official and national language of Indonesia and its dialects. This collaboration further demonstrates Tech Mahindra's commitment to enabling enterprises to scale rapidly with technological advancements, building a future where AI solutions are accessible, scalable, and responsible.

India Gets Additional $1.5 Bn from World Bank to Develop Low-Carbon Energy Infrastructure

The World Bank has granted USD 1.5 billion in financing to help India expedite the development of low-carbon energy infrastructure.

The financing for the operation includes a $1.46 billion loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and a $31.5 million credit from the International Development Association (IDA).

This funding aims to boost low-carbon energy by scaling up renewable energy and producing green hydrogen, among other initiatives. India, as the fastest-growing large economy globally, faces the challenge of decoupling economic growth from emissions growth. To achieve this, the World Bank's support focuses on:

• Green Hydrogen: The operation aims to promote the development of a vibrant market for green hydrogen, which is critical for decarbonization.
• Renewable Energy: Scaling up renewable energy is essential, especially in hard-to-abate industrial sectors.
• Climate Finance: The financing will stimulate climate finance for low-carbon energy investments, supporting India's transition toward cleaner energy sources.

This strategic investment aligns with India's net-zero target and will create clean energy jobs in the private sector. By FY25/26, the reforms supported by this operation are expected to result in the production of at least 450,000 metric tons of green hydrogen and 1,500 MW of electrolyzers annually. Additionally, it will significantly increase renewable energy capacity and contribute to reducing emissions by 50 million tons per year.

Impact on India's energy sector

The World Bank's additional financing of USD 1.5 billion will significantly impact India's energy sector by accelerating its transition toward a low-carbon economy. Here are the key areas of impact

1. Green Hydrogen Development: The funding will promote the development of a vibrant market for green hydrogen. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy, has immense potential for decarbonization and can be used in various sectors, including industry and transportation.

2. Renewable Energy Scaling: India aims to scale up its renewable energy capacity. The financing will support projects that enhance solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources. This will contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy security.

3. Clean Energy Jobs: The investment will create jobs in the private sector related to clean energy production, distribution, and technology development. This will boost employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth.

4. Emission Reduction: By FY25/26, the reforms supported by this operation are expected to result in the production of at least 450,000 metric tons of green hydrogen and 1,500 MW of electrolyzers annually. Additionally, it will significantly reduce emissions by 50 million tons per year.

Overall, this funding aligns with India's net-zero target and supports the country's efforts to transition to sustainable and cleaner energy sources.

Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos' Mega-Constellation of Satellites Threat to Ozone Layer

The increasing number of satellites and mega-constellations poses a potential risk to Earth's ozone layer. Satellites, when they reach the end of their service life, burn up during reentry into Earth's atmosphere. This process generates aluminum oxides as a byproduct. These aluminum oxides are catalysts for chlorine activation, which leads to ozone depletion in the stratosphere. 

As of today, nearly 10,000 satellites are orbiting the Earth and 75% or two-thirds of these 10,000 belong to SpaceX’s broadband constellation, Starlink.

SpaceX has launched more than 6,000 Starlink satellites to orbit, and the company’s promoter Elon Musk is hoping to build a massive constellation of 42,000 satellites. Besides SpaceX, Jeff Bezos promoted Blue Origin’s Project Kuiper also plans to send 3,000 satellites to space, while Airbus-owned OneWeb wants to build a constellation of 648 satellites.

With knack of competition, China too is working to send out whopping number of about 13,000 satellites in space, that will encircle the Earth in the lower orbit (LEO).

A typical 250-kg satellite can produce around 30 kg of aluminum oxide nanoparticles during its demise. These particles may persist in the atmosphere for decades.

The entire population of satellites reentering the atmosphere in 2022 generated approximately 17 metric tons of aluminum oxide compounds. Mega-constellations could lead to over 360 metric tons of aluminum oxide compounds per year, significantly affecting ozone levels. Byproducts from reentering satellites may take up to 30 years to settle from the mesosphere into the stratospheric ozone layer.

At the end of their short lifespan, the satellites generate pollutants as they fall through the atmosphere. Satellite re-entry produces tiny particles of aluminum oxide, which trigger chemical reactions that destroy the stratospheric ozone, according to the recent study published in Geophysical Research Letters. The oxides don’t react chemically with the molecules of the ozone layer; instead they set off destructive reactions between ozone and chlorine that end up depleting the protective layer in Earth’s atmosphere.

Mitigating the risk of ozone depletion due to satellite reentry involves several strategies including designing satellites with deorbiting mechanisms to ensure controlled reentry at the end of their operational life. This minimizes the risk of uncontrolled disintegration and aluminum oxide release.

Plan for reentry trajectories also minimizes the altitude at which satellites disintegrate. Lower altitudes reduce the chances of aluminum oxide reaching the stratosphere.

In addition, exploring materials other than aluminum for satellite construction. Choosing materials that don't produce harmful byproducts during reentry can help mitigate ozone depletion.

Wipro Merges Designit North America and Wipro Designit, Deregisters Australian Unit

Wipro recently merged its two North American subsidiaries, Designit North America and Wipro Designit Services, effective from July 1st.

Additionally, the IT major has deregistered another step-down subsidiary, Attune Australia Pty Ltd, on June 26, 2024. The merger aims to rationalize and consolidate the company's group structure.

While Wipro Designit Services has a turnover of $48 million, Designit North America's turnover stood at $1.6 million as of March 31, 2024. The Australian subsidiary, Attune Australia Pty Ltd, had revenue from operations of AUD 269,554 (Australian dollars) as of March end.

The merger of Wipro's North American subsidiaries, Designit North America and Wipro Designit Services, aims to rationalize and consolidate the company's group structure. By combining their operations, Wipro can achieve greater efficiency, streamline processes, and enhance collaboration between the two entities. Additionally, deregistering the Australian subsidiary, Attune Australia Pty Ltd, simplifies the corporate structure and aligns with strategic goals.

The impact on employees of the merged subsidiaries will depend on the specific details of the merger. Typically, during such consolidations, there may be changes in roles, reporting structures, and responsibilities. Some employees might experience job reassignments or redundancies, while others could benefit from new opportunities within the combined organization. Wipro's management would likely communicate any changes transparently and work to minimize disruptions.

Last year in October, Wipro merged its five wholly owned subsidiaries with itself. The five wholly owned subsidiaries were — Wipro HR Services India Private Limited, Wipro Overseas IT Services Private Limited, Wipro Technology Product Services Private Limited (formerly known as Encore Theme Technologies Private Limited), Wipro Trademarks Holding Limited, and Wipro VLSI Design Services India Private Limited.

Infosys CEO Parekh Paid ₹25 Lakh to SEBI as Settlement for Insider Trading Charges

Infosys CEO and MD, Salil Parekh, has settled insider trading charges with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). He paid ₹25 lakhs for violating provisions of insider trading. The case arose from SEBI's investigation, which found that Infosys had violated provisions of the Sebi Act and PIT Regulations, 2015, between June 29, 2020, and September 27, 2021.

Insider trading occurs when someone with access to confidential information about a publicly traded company uses that information to make financial gains (or avoid losses) by trading the company's securities. Insiders include company executives (such as CEOs, CFOs, and board members), employees, and anyone else who has access to material non-public information.

On September 27, 2021, SEBI passed an ad Interim Ex Parte Order against two entities for prima facie violation of the SEBI Act and SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations, 2015 in the case of alleged insider trading in Infosys. SEBI passed the confirmatory order on December 13. 2021.

SEBI reported that it investigated to ascertain if the two entities violated the SEBI regulations from June 29, 2020, to September 27, 2021. In July 2020, Infosys announced a strategic partnership with Vanguard to provide it with a cloud-based record-keeping platform.

SEBI classifies information about partnerships and major deals as Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI) as it may have a significant impact on the stock price. However, Infosys did not consider the strategic partnership with Vanguard as USPI despite Infosys’ own analysis identifying the strategic importance of the partnership.

Following the investigation, a show-cause notice was issued to Salil Parekh on August 3, 2023. The Infosys CEO filed a settlement application to settle the case without admitting or denying the findings and conclusions of the probe.

Specifically, Infosys had not appropriately classified certain information as Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI). As part of the settlement, Salil Parekh agreed to pay ₹25 lakh. The payment was made on June 7, 2024, and SEBI confirmed receipt of the amount.

The settlement was recommended by the High Powered Advisory Committee and accepted by SEBI's Panel of Whole Time Members.

Insider trading refers to the practice of buying or selling a company's securities (such as stocks or bonds) based on non-public information about the company. Some insider trading is legal. For instance, insiders can buy or sell their company's stock if they follow specific rules (such as filing disclosures with regulatory authorities). The illegal form involves trading based on material non-public information. It undermines market integrity and fairness.

Regulatory bodies (such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the United States) monitor and enforce rules against illegal insider trading. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and civil lawsuits.

Remember that trading based on inside information is unfair to other investors and damages market confidence. It's essential to maintain transparency and uphold ethical standards in financial markets.

Airtel, Jio Increases Mobile Tariffs by 10–27%

Airtel and Jio, India's leading mobile service providers, have raised their tariffs by 10-27%, effective July 3rd. This marks the first major hike in mobile plans in over two and a half years.

Here's a breakdown of the increases:

Airtel: The hike ranges from 10% to 21%. To minimize the impact on budget-conscious consumers, they've assured a minimal increase of less than 70 paise per day on entry-level plans.

Jio: The increase varies between 12% and 27%. Jio has also introduced two new apps, Jio Safe and JioTranslate, which will be offered free to customers initially.

The recent increase in mobile tariffs by Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio is primarily driven by several factors. Here are some possible reasons:

• Rising Costs: Telecom companies face increasing operational costs, including network maintenance, spectrum fees, and infrastructure upgrades. To maintain profitability, they adjust tariffs periodically.
• Investments in 5G: Both Airtel and Jio are preparing for the rollout of 5G services. These investments require substantial capital, which may lead to tariff adjustments.
• The telecom industry is competitive, and companies often respond to each other's pricing strategies. When one operator raises tariffs, others may follow suit to maintain a level playing field.
• Inflation and Currency Fluctuations: Inflation affects operational costs, and currency fluctuations impact international payments for services and equipment.
• Regulatory Changes: Regulatory decisions, such as spectrum auctions or license fees, can influence tariffs.

It is to be noted that these are general reasons,and specific details may vary.

Consumers will likely experience increased monthly bills for their mobile services. The tariff hike directly affects the cost of voice calls, data, and other services.

Consumers may explore alternative telecom providers to find better deals. The competitive landscape will play a crucial role in shaping consumer decisions. Small businesses and entrepreneurs who rely heavily on mobile services may face increased operational costs, affecting their profitability.

Overall, the impact varies based on individual circumstances, usage habits, and financial capacity.

TCS Grabs €150 Mn Contract from Ireland Govt to Build Irish Auto-Enrolment System

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is nearing a significant €150 million ( ~ US$160.4 Mn) deal to construct an auto-enrolment system in Ireland.

The Department of Social Protection of the Government of Ireland has selected TCS as its preferred partner to build and run the system for its landmark auto-enrolment (AE) pension scheme, according to reports by both Irish and Indian media outlets.

The awarding of the 10-year contract, which is valued at up to €150 million (~ US$160.4 Mn), is expected to be finalised within weeks.

The proposed auto-enrolment scheme will apply to individuals aged between 23 and 60, earning at least €20,000 annually. For every €3 contributed by a worker, their employer will match the amount, and the State will add an additional €1. Participants will have the flexibility to opt out during specific windows.

The Irish Department of Social Protection estimates that the State's cost for the auto-enrolment scheme will be approximately €138 million in its first year of operation (2025), increasing to €760 million by the tenth year.

Additionally, TCS has a successful track record, having previously established and managed a UK auto-enrolment system over a decade ago. The company has been operating in Ireland for more than two decades and opened a global delivery center in Letterkenny in 2020.

This initiative aims to enhance retirement savings and financial security for Irish workers.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has a significant presence in Ireland, contributing to the country's technology landscape. TCS first set up an office in Dublin in 2001. Over the years, it has expanded its operations and now operates with over 100 consultants in Ireland. The company's Global Delivery Centres support its activities in the region.

Besides this auto-enrolment scheme project, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been actively involved in several projects in Ireland. To recall, TCS played a pivotal role in helping AIB life, a joint venture between Allied Irish Banks plc and Great-West Lifeco, launch operations in Ireland. The two built a future-ready, digitally enabled platform using TCS BaNCS. This platform allows AIB's 3.2 million customers to access financial advice and a range of integrated life protection, pensions, and investment products through branches, phone, and the AIB mobile banking app. TCS BaNCS' configurability enables AIB life to innovate and differentiate itself in the Irish market.

Moreover, TCS collaborates with local institutions such as Queen's University Belfast, Ulster University, Letterkenny IT, Sligo IT, and NUI Galway. The Indian IT services giant also hire staff with international experience, resulting in a diverse workforce representing 35 different nationalities at their Letterkenny operations.

An Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) and Minister for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment, Leo Varadkar TD, commended TCS's continued investment in Ireland during a visit to their Global Delivery Centre in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.

In 2020, TCS acquired Pramerica Systems Ireland from insurance firm Prudential Financial Inc (PFI), further strengthening its presence. Since then, TCS has continued to invest in its Irish workforce, equipping employees with the latest skills. The company operates a Global Delivery Centre in Letterkenny, servicing more than 25 global and local customers.

BPM Arm of Infosys Opens 2nd Office in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

Infosys BPM, the business process management arm of Infosys, has announced that it has inaugurated a second facility at the Montana Industrial Park in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island, Commonwealth, and unincorporated territory of the United States.

This expansion represents an investment of $200,000, supported by the Puerto Rico Economic Incentive Fund, allocated by the Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC). It will create 325 new jobs, adding to the current workforce of 300 employees.

The new office will enable Infosys BPM to serve more clients across various industries, including aerospace, healthcare, insurance, financial services, and telecommunications.

Infosys BPM's new office in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, will provide a range of services across various industries. These services include business process management, IT consulting, application development, and outsourcing solutions. The expansion aims to enhance client support and create more job opportunities on the Island.

Infosys has a presence in the Caribbean, and while the recent expansion was in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, there are other offices as well. For instance, in Costa Rica, Infosys has an office located in San Jose.

Infosys has been expanding its presence in the United States by establishing new offices.

In 2017, Infosys chose central Indiana for its first state-of-the-art technology and innovation hub. As of now, Infosys has technology hubs in North Carolina, Indianapolis, Hartford, Connecticut and Providence, Rhode Island. In 2012, Infosys opened a delivery center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This facility provides end-to-end technology, consulting, and systems integration services, along with a training center.

These expansions demonstrate Infosys' commitment to growth and job creation in the U.S.

Reaffirming the company's commitment to enhancing operational efficiencies, driving greater productivity, and providing exceptional value to its clients, Anantha Radhakrishnan, CEO & Managing Director, Infosys BPM, said, “Our expanded new facility in Puerto Rico is another significant step towards accelerating innovation for global companies, as Infosys BPM continues to be laser-focused on providing value from great processes and compelling experiences. We appreciate the immense support given to us by local policy makers to accelerate our vision for shared progress.”

Infosys BPM Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Infosys Limited (NSE, BSE, NYSE: INFY), was established in April 2002. It offers integrated end-to-end transformative business process management (BPM) services and have journeyed through the table stakes of effectiveness and efficiency with an ever-increasing focus on enhancing stakeholder experience and empathy. Infosys BPM enable clients to navigate their digital journey, operating from 45 delivery centres across 16 countries, with over 57,500 people from 111 nationalities.

JSW Group to Acquire Majority Stake in Navkar Corporation Ltd

JSW Infrastructure Limited (the “Company”), a part of the JSW Group and India’s second-largest private commercial port operator, through its wholly owned subsidiary JSW Port Logistics Private Limited (the “Acquirer”), has agreed to acquire 70.37% shareholding held by Promoters and Promoter Group in Navkar Corporation Limited (“Navkar”). Necessary definitive agreements have been signed between the parties.

The completion of the acquisition is subject to the receipt of customary approvals required from certain regulatory bodies and the completion of identified conditions precedent.

Navkar is listed on BSE and NSE. Its key operating facilities are:

• One Container Freight Station (CFS) and Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal at Somathane, Panvel and Two CFS at Ajivali, Panvel.
• An Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Morbi, Gujarat. The ICD is part of the Multimodal Logistics Park (MMLP).

Navkar also has a Container Train Operator License of Category 1 and Category 2. Navkar has established a foothold with facilities in the Western India industrial belt across the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat and leveraged its railway capability to extend its service network to Pan India.

The acquisition aligns with the Company’s strategy to pursue value-accretive organic and inorganic opportunities in the port and related infrastructure sector. The acquisition will result in the Company's foray into logistics and other value-added services. It will facilitate the business to offer improved port connectivity and streamlined supply chain solutions to its customers.

The acquisition also marks a first step towards the Company’s long-term vision of building and scaling an efficient pan-India logistics network for last-mile connectivity. Further, it complements the growth strategy of increasing the Company’s share of port-related container cargo driven by India’s strong economic fundamentals.

As a result of the Proposed Transaction, the Acquirer will be required to make an open offer in accordance with SEBI (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011.

JM Financial Limited acted as the exclusive financial advisor to the Company for this transaction.

Samsung Launches First 200 MP Telephoto Sensor for Smartphones Cameras

Samsung Electronics has introduced three new mobile image sensors designed for both main and sub cameras in smartphones — the ISOCELL HP9, the ISOCELL GNJ and the ISOCELL JN5.

Among these, ISOCELL HP9 is the Industry’s First 200MP Telephoto Sensor for Smartphones. 

1. ISOCELL HP9:

This groundbreaking sensor features an industry-leading 200MP resolution with 200 million 0.56-micrometer pixels in a 1/1.4-inch optical format. Its high-refractive microlens enhances light-gathering capability, resulting in vivid color reproduction and improved focus. Notably, the HP9 performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions and offers in-sensor zoom modes up to 12x while maintaining image quality.

Notably, the HP9 excels in low-light conditions, addressing a common challenge for traditional telephoto cameras. The ISOCELL HP9 is Samsung's groundbreaking mobile image sensor with some impressive features:

1. High Resolution: It boasts an industry-leading 200MP resolution, featuring 200 million 0.56-micrometer (μm) pixels in a 1/1.4-inch optical format. This makes it one of the most high-resolution sensors available for mobile devices.
2. In-Sensor Zoom: The HP9 supports in-sensor zoom using Tetra²pixel technology. It can zoom in up to 4x while maintaining crisp detail. When combined with a 3x telephoto module, it can achieve extreme zoom capabilities, going up to 12x with just the camera module.
3. Pixel Binning: The sensor optimizes pixel array for different lighting conditions. As light dims, it automatically merges neighboring pixels into one, allowing them to operate as a single 1.2µm-sized pixel with 50MP or a 2.4µm-sized pixel with 12.5MP. Even after zooming in at 4x, it still operates at 12.5MP, utilizing more pixels than 12MP sensors before zooming. This results in clearer low-light pictures with less noise.
4. High Precision Microlens: The HP9 uses a highly refractive material applied to the microlens, allowing it to more precisely collect and guide light toward the photodiode. This reduces crosstalk, increases the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by 38% compared to its predecessor, and improves autofocus performance by 10%.
5. Smart-ISO Pro: It can express over 4 trillion color combinations thanks to its 14-bit color depth, which is 64 times greater than 12-bit sensors. This was achieved by applying higher conversion gain for High ISO and merging two readouts: one with High/Mid ISO and another with Low ISO. Additionally, it uses Staggered HDR to capture images with a wider dynamic range.

Specifications:

• Effective Resolution: 16,320 x 12,288 (200M)
• Pixel Size: 0.56μm
• Optical Format: 1/1.4"
• Color Filter: Tetra²pixel RGB Bayer Pattern
• Frame Rate: 7.5 fps @ full 200 MP, 27 fps @ 50 MP, and 120 fps @ 12.5 MP.

The Samsung ISOCELL HP9 sensor has already been incorporated into two smartphones – Vivo X100 Ultra and HONOR Magic6 Pro. However, the HONOR Magic6 Pro employs a cropped version of the HP9, offering a 180MP resolution due to the crop.

These smartphones benefit from the HP9's impressive light sensitivity, vivid color reproduction, and improved focus, making these two smartphones stand out in mobile photography.

2. ISOCELL GNJ

The GNJ is a dual pixel sensor with 50 million 1.0-micrometer pixels in a 1/1.57-inch optical format. Each pixel houses two photodiodes, enabling fast and accurate autofocus, similar to human eyes. This sensor enhances overall imaging performance in smartphones.

Each pixel houses two photodiodes, enabling fast and accurate autofocus, similar to the way human eyes focus. The image sensor also simultaneously captures full color information for quick focusing with sustained image quality.

The GNJ combines dual pixel technology with an in-sensor zoom function to deliver clearer footage in video mode and higher-resolution images free from artifacts or moiré2 patterns in photo mode.

3. ISOCELL JN5:

The ISOCELL JN5 features 50 million 0.64μm pixels in a 1/2.76-inch optical format.

Dual vertical transfer gate (Dual VTG) technology increases charge transfer within pixels, substantially reducing noise in extreme low light conditions for clearer image quality.

Leveraging Super Quad Phase Detection (Super QPD), the JN5 adjusts focus by comparing phase differences both vertically and horizontally, catching even the smallest details of rapidly moving objects with minimal shake.

Additionally, the JN5 incorporates dual slope gain (DSG) technology to enhance its HDR. This technology amplifies the analog light information entering the pixels into two signals, converts them into digital, and then combines them into one data, expanding the range of colors that the sensor can produce.

SAP Announces Its New Open Source Manifesto

SAP recently published its open source manifesto, reinforcing its commitment to open source principles and community engagement. The manifesto aligns with SAP’s established presence as a key contributor to open source. In fact, SAP currently ranks as one of the top ten commercial contributors globally on GitHub in the OSCI.

The manifesto provides guidance to internal developers, as well as customers, partners, and the developer ecosystem. It emphasizes transparency, security, and shared success, aiming to accelerate innovation and collaboration on a significant scale. By embracing open source, SAP not only accelerates its own innovation but also empowers its customers and partners to build on a solid foundation.

SAP actively contributes to several open source projects and foundations. Some notable ones are — Gardener, Kyma, and OpenUI5.

SAP also actively supports and sponsors organizations in the open source community, including the Linux Foundation, Cloud Native Computing Foundation, and the Apache Software Foundation. If anyone is interested, one can explore more of SAP's open source projects on GitHub.

The manifesto coincides with SAP’s participation in the Open Reference Architecture project under the EU’s IPCEI-CIS initiative, exemplifying SAP’s support for digital sovereignty in cloud infrastructure and services. This project’s development, contributed as open source, showcases SAP’s transparent approach to fostering community-led growth and innovation.

Intel Launches 1st Integrated Optical I/O Chiplet for Future Computing

Intel Corporation has achieved a significant milestone in integrated photonics technology. At the Optical Fiber Communication Conference (OFC) 2024, Intel's Integrated Photonics Solutions (IPS) Group demonstrated the industry's first fully integrated optical compute interconnect (OCI) chiplet co-packaged with an Intel CPU and running live data.

This OCI chiplet represents a leap forward in high-bandwidth interconnect, enabling co-packaged optical input/output (I/O) in emerging AI infrastructure for data centers and high-performance computing applications.

The OCI chiplet is designed to support 64 channels of 32 gigabits per second (Gbps) data transmission in each direction on up to 100 meters of fiber optics. The OCI chiplet addresses AI infrastructure's growing demands for higher bandwidth, lower power consumption, and longer reach, making it a crucial advancement for future computing platforms.

OCI Chiplets Vs Traditional Electrical Interconnects

OCI chiplets offer significantly higher bandwidth compared to electrical interconnects. With 64 channels of 32 Gbps data transmission in each direction, they provide ample capacity for data-intensive workloads. Traditional electrical interconnects, such as copper-based traces on circuit boards, have limited bandwidth and can become bottlenecks in high-performance computing systems.

Moreover, OCI chiplets consume less power per bit transmitted. Optical signals experience minimal resistance and don't generate heat like electrical currents do. Electrical interconnects suffer from power losses due to resistance, leading to higher energy consumption.

OCI chiplets support longer reach—up to 100 meters of fiber optics—making them suitable for large-scale data centers. Electrical interconnects are limited by signal degradation over distance, especially at high speeds.

Optical signals travel at the speed of light, resulting in lower latency compared to electrical signals. Electrical interconnects introduce additional latency due to signal propagation delays.

Above all, OCI chiplets are immune to EMI, making them ideal for noisy environments. While, Electrical interconnects can suffer from EMI-induced signal degradation.

In summary, OCI chiplets offer superior performance in terms of bandwidth, power efficiency, reach, and latency, making them a promising solution for future computing systems.

OCI chiplets for AI-based Applications

With recent developments in large language models (LLM) and generative AI are accelerating the trend of AI applications. Larger and more efficient machine learning (ML) models will play a key role in addressing the emerging requirements of AI acceleration workloads. The need to scale future computing platforms for AI is driving exponential growth in I/O bandwidth and longer reach to support larger processing unit (CPU/GPU/IPU) clusters and architectures with more efficient resource utilization, such as xPU disaggregation and memory pooling.

Electrical I/O (i.e., copper trace connectivity) supports high bandwidth density and low power, but only offers short reaches of about one meter or less. Pluggable optical transceiver modules used in data centers and early AI clusters can increase reach at cost and power levels that are not sustainable with the scaling requirements of AI workloads. A co-packaged xPU optical I/O solution can support higher bandwidths with improved power efficiency, low latency and longer reach – exactly what AI/ML infrastructure scaling requires.

Xiaomi Plans to Launch Ferrari-inspired Electric SUV to Compete Tesla Model Y

Xiaomi, the Chinese tech giant, is making strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market. After successfully launching its first EV, the SU7, earlier this year, Xiaomi now has plans to expand its lineup with a new electric SUV. This upcoming SUV, codenamed MX11, was recently spotted testing in China. 

The MX11 electric SUV appears to be similar in size and design to the Ferrari Purosangue SUV. From the sides, it has a distinct silhouette reminiscent of the Ferrari model. The front face features sleek design elements, including slim LED headlights and daytime running lights (DRLs), which draw inspiration from the Xiaomi SU7 (itself inspired by the Porsche Taycan).

Little is known about the specifications, but reports suggest that the MX11 might share some elements with the SU7 electric sedan. It could use the same 400V architecture and a 73.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack from the SU7.

The leaked images (above) reveal of the upcoming electric SUV is heavily camouflaged yet it has striking resemblance to the Ferrari Purosangue.

There's also speculation about a higher-spec variant with an 800V architecture and a larger 101-kWh battery.

Xiaomi aims to compete with EV giants like Tesla by positioning the MX11 to rival the Tesla Model Y. The previously launched SU7 model was aimed at the Tesla Model 3, and Xiaomi seems determined to make an impact in the competitive Chinese EV market.

The MX11 is slated for a 2026 release and is estimated to cost around 150,000 yuan (21,000 USD).

TCS in Talks to Acquire World's Prominent Advertising Agency R/GA

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is currently in negotiation talks to acquire R/GA, a New York-based digital design and advertising agency and a subsidiary of Interpublic Group of Companies reported the WSJ. R/GA, dubbed as the world's prominent & creative advertising agency, has global offices in cities like Austin, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London, Berlin, and Tokyo.

While the deal's terms remain undisclosed, R/GA is estimated to be valued at around $300 million.

Additionally, Interpublic Group (IPG) and TCS are exploring a broader strategic partnership, potentially collaborating on AI and data projects for mutual clients.

Interpublic Group (IPG) is currently exploring the possibility of selling R/GA. The front-runner to acquire R/GA is Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). R/GA joined IPG in 2001 through the acquisition of its parent company, True North Communications.

The potential acquisition by TCS would place R/GA alongside other consulting giants like Accenture and Deloitte, which have expanded into the marketing sector by building and acquiring agencies that offer digital transformation, experiential marketing, creative services, and web and mobile development.

Founded in 1977, by two brothers, Richard and Robert Greenberg, R/GA is known for its innovative work in digital design, advertising, and marketing. The agency combine creativity, technology, and data to create impactful campaigns, user experiences, and brand strategies for clients worldwide.

In onw of the creative works by R/GA, it created the opening title sequence for superhero movie 'Superman' (1978) by visually enhancing each name so it appears to be flying into the screen.

Between 2012-2016, R/GA partnered with "Beats by Dre" to create their music platform and advertising. This partnership led to key campaigns coinciding with the 2012 Olympics and 2014 World Cup. This work won numerous awards, and the brand was later sold to Apple Inc. for a reported $3 billion, after which Beats Music became Apple Music.

However, of late R/GA is facing few challenges, including executive turnover, client losses and a decline in ad spend, particularly from tech clients, which led to a 20% revenue drop last year to about $200 million, according to The Journal.

The proposed sale of R/GA by IPG is said to be part of the group's efforts to streamline its operations and adapt to the rapidly evolving advertising landscape, increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence and digital transformation.

Vodafone Idea Acquires 50 Mhz Spectrum in 11 Circles for Rs 3,510 Crore to Expand 4G and Rollout 5G

Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) recently announced the strategic acquisition of 50 MHz of spectrum across the low and mid bands (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2500 MHz) in 11 circles for a total investment of Rs 3,510 crore. This acquisition will allow VIL to enhance its 4G coverage, launch 5G services, and seize significant market opportunities.

In addition to renewing its 900 MHz spectrum in the UP West and West Bengal circles, VIL has also enhanced its 900 MHz spectrum holdings in seven circles — Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Punjab, Rajasthan, UP East, and Kolkata. This strategic move aligns with VIL's long-term plan to enhance customer experience and effectively utilize spectrum across both existing and emerging technologies.

The acquisition of additional spectrum by Vodafone Idea is expected to have several impacts on its services.

With the additional 900 MHz spectrum, VIL can enhance its 4G coverage in key circles. This means better network availability and connectivity for users. The acquired spectrum will also play a crucial role in VIL's 5G rollout plans. Having access to mid-band spectrum (1800 MHz and 2500 MHz) positions them well for future 5G services.

More spectrum translates to increased network capacity. VIL can handle higher data traffic and accommodate more users simultaneously.

Better coverage and capacity contribute to an improved quality of service. Users can expect faster speeds, reduced call drops, and smoother data experiences. In a highly competitive telecom market, having adequate spectrum resources is essential. VIL's strategic move strengthens its position against rivals.

Overall, this acquisition is a positive step for Vodafone Idea, enabling them to offer better services and stay competitive in the evolving telecommunications landscape.

ISRO's Commercial Arm NSIL and Space Machines Company Ink Historic Launch Service Agreement for Next Optimus Spacecraft Onboard SSLV

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and Space Machines Company announce the signing of historic Launch Service Agreement for next Optimus spacecraft onboard Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).

NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), a Govt. of India company under the Department of Space and the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)  and Space Machines Company, an Australian-Indian in-space servicing firm, have signed a landmark Dedicated Launch Service Agreement.

This pioneering collaboration sets the stage for the launch of Space Machines Company’s second Optimus spacecraft weighing 450kg, the largest Australian-designed and built spacecraft so far. Slated for a Dedicated launch on-board NSIL/ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) in 2026, this mission will mark a defining moment for both nations in the area of space collaboration.

At the India Space Congress 2024 held in Delhi, Rajat Kulshrestha, CEO and Co-Founder of Space Machines Company, and Mr Radhakrishnan Durairaj, Chairman and Managing Director of NSIL, formally announced the signing of the Launch Service Agreement.

“This collaboration with Space Machines Company exemplifies the spirit of international cooperation in space and highlights the strategic partnership between Australia and India,” said Mr Radhakrishnan Durairaj, NSIL Chairman and Managing Director. “As a Launch service provider for the Optimus spacecraft, we are not only fostering the growth of our respective space industries but also contributing to the sustainable exploration and utilisation of space.”

“The Space MAITRI mission and our collaboration with NewSpace India Limited represents a significant leap forward for Australia’s space industry. By combining our innovative spacecraft capabilities with India’s proven launch expertise, we are not only strengthening the ties between our nations’ space sectors but also demonstrating our shared commitment to sustainable space operations,” said Rajat Kulshrestha, CEO and Co-Founder of Space Machines Company.

This mission, named Space MAITRI मैत्री (Mission for Australia-India’s Technology, Research and Innovation), marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between Australia and India in the space domain, fostering closer ties between commercial, institutional, and governmental space organisations from both nations. By focusing on debris management and sustainability, the mission aligns with the core values and objectives of both countries, promoting responsible space operations and mitigating the growing threat of space debris.

Notably, SMC established a research and development office in Bangalore, India, close to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This strategic move allows them to collaborate with Indian partners, including Ananth Technologies, across missions, integration, testing, tech developments, and supply chain.

Space Machines Company (SMC) was founded by Rajat Kulshrestha and George Freney in 2018. These visionary space machinists are on a mission to revolutionize the space economy by providing cost-effective and flexible transportation services for satellites.

The space company is building a future where space works for everyone, addressing the lack of satellite servicing infrastructure and ensuring that satellites no longer have to "fend for themselves" in space. Key Executives at SMC include Rajat Kulshrestha (CEO & Co-Founder), Mark Ramsey (Chief Operating Officer), and George Freney (Co-Founder).

Microsoft Charged with Antitrust Violation by the EU for 'Microsoft Teams'

The European Union (EU) has accused Microsoft of violating antitrust rules by bundling its Teams messaging and videoconferencing app with core office productivity applications like Office 365 and Microsoft 365. The EU suspects that Microsoft may have granted Teams an "undue advantage" by not giving customers a choice when purchasing the software. Additionally, limits on rival messaging apps working with Microsoft software may have widened this advantage.

The EU's executive vice-president for competition policy, Margrethe Vestager, expressed concern about preserving competition in remote communication and collaboration tools. Microsoft now has a chance to respond before the final decision is made. This marks the first antitrust charge against Microsoft in the EU in 15 years.

"The European Commission has informed Microsoft of its preliminary view that Microsoft has breached EU antitrust rules by tying its communication and collaboration product Teams to its popular productivity applications included in its suites for businesses Office 365 and Microsoft 365," the European Commission — the EU's executive arm — said in a Statement of Objections, which is sent to inform companies of concerns raised against them.

Last year the tech giant unbundled Teams from Microsoft 365 in an effort to quash antitrust concerns by the EU, but the European Commission said the changes were "insufficient to address its concerns."

Microsoft said Tuesday it would work to find solutions to address the commission's additional concerns.

This recent antitrust charge against Microsoft by the European Union is related to previous cases. It's the first such charge in 15 years, and it focuses on Microsoft bundling its Teams app with core office productivity software, potentially giving it an "undue advantage" in the market. The EU aims to ensure fair competition in remote communication and collaboration tools .

In 2001, the U.S. government accused Microsoft of illegally monopolizing the web browser market for Windows. The case revolved around Microsoft's bundling of Internet Explorer with Windows, restricting users' ability to uninstall it and use other browsers like Netscape and Java. The initial trial found Microsoft's actions unlawful under the Sherman Antitrust Act, but the Court of Appeals partially overturned that judgment. Eventually, Microsoft reached a settlement that led to modifications in its business practices. In the 1990s, U.S. federal regulators sued Microsoft, alleging monopolistic behavior in the personal computer market.

More recently, the U.S. government brought antitrust cases against Microsoft to block its acquisition of game developer Activision and against Google to divest some of its advertising businesses³.

These cases reflect the ongoing scrutiny of Microsoft's practices and their impact on competition in the tech industry.

Vedanta Resources to Sell 2.6% Stake in Vedanta Ltd to a Group of Institutional Investors

Vedanta Resources, the parent company of Indian metals-to-oil firm Vedanta, has decided to sell a 2.6% stake in Vedanta Ltd to a group of institutional investors,reported Reuters. This move comes as an U-turn from a week ago when Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal stated that there were no plans for a stake sale by the company's controlling shareholders.

The stake will be sold through Vedanta Resources' unit, Finsider International, which held a 2.63% stake in Mumbai-listed Vedanta as of March-end. The financial details of the deal and the names of the investors have not been disclosed yet. This decision aligns with Vedanta Resources' commitment to significantly deleverage its balance sheet.

The decision by Vedanta Resources to sell its stake in Vedanta Ltd could be influenced by several factors.

Vedanta Resources may be aiming to reduce debt on its balance sheet. Selling a stake in Vedanta Ltd could provide liquidity and help them manage their financial obligations more effectively. Companies often reassess their portfolio and strategic priorities. By divesting a stake, Vedanta Resources might be reallocating resources to focus on other core businesses or investment opportunities.

The total gross debt of Vedanta Resources stood at $6 billion as of March 31. On completing the stake sale, the firm would have reduced its debt by $650 million so far in fiscal 2025.

The timing of stake sales can be influenced by market dynamics. If Vedanta Ltd's stock price is favorable, it could be an opportune moment for Vedanta Resources to exit partially. Companies sometimes need to comply with regulatory requirements or maintain a certain level of public float. Selling a stake could help meet these obligations.

Institutional investors or active shareholders may have encouraged Vedanta Resources to unlock value by selling part of their stake. It is to be noted that these are speculative reasons, and the actual motivations may vary.

Tata Motors Launches Digital Marketplace for Its Entire Range of Commercial Vehicles

Tata Motors launches Fleet Verse, a digital marketplace for its entire range of commercial vehicles

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicles manufacturer, has recently announced the launch of Tata Motors Fleet Verse – a comprehensive and innovative digital marketplace for Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles. The platform offers features like new vehicle discovery, configuration, acquisition, financing, and is future-proofed to include a range of additional services and features, making Fleet Verse a one-stop digital destination for all commercial vehicle needs.

Built on five key pillars, Fleet Verse is designed to consolidate all aspects of commercial vehicle ownership onto a single platform. The Smart Search Vehicle Discovery, enriched with advanced semantic search features allows users to explore Tata Motors’ full range of commercial vehicles of 900+ models and 3000+ variants.

With Product Configurator, users can key in their business needs, application, and choices to get the most appropriate vehicle recommendation. The 3D Visualizer offers an immersive experience to view vehicle exteriors and interiors in realistic detail. With Vehicle Online Finance, Fleet Verse partners with major financiers to offer fast and smooth finance applications and approvals. Finally, the Vehicle Online Booking feature enables users to book their desired vehicles in a few easy clicks and get prioritized fulfillment, simplifying the acquisition process.

Launching the Fleet Verse platform, Mr. Bharat Bhushan, Head – Digital Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, said, With the launch of Fleet Verse, we are setting a new benchmark in the commercial vehicle industry by providing customers with an all-encompassing digital platform. We aim to streamline the commercial vehicle ownership experience, ensuring it’s fast, intelligent, safe, and reliable. This initiative underscores our commitment to innovation and enriched customer excellence, driving growth and convenience for both dealers and customers through digitalized value chains. We are excited to bring this transformative experience to our customers and look forward to continuously enhance the platform with new features and capabilities.”

All transactions on Fleet Verse are rendered through Tata Motors’ extensive pan-India dealership network, using a direct-to-dealer payment ecosystem. Serving as a digital bridge, the platform connects dealerships and financiers directly with customers, streamlining processes from enquiry to vehicle delivery. This enables a transparent, prompt and convenient procurement process for customers and Tata Authorised Dealerships —a true win-win scenario.

Infosys Targets 33% Remote Work by 2030 Favouring Hybrid Model

Infosys has set an ambitious goal to deliver 33% of its work through flexible and remote options by 2030. This strategic move aligns with the evolving work landscape and aims to address the diverse needs of its workforce. By embracing a hybrid work model, expanding into tier-2 cities, and offering relocation incentives, Infosys demonstrates its commitment to employee well-being and operational efficiency.

Infosys is actively expanding its presence in tier-2 cities to support remote work and reduce environmental impact. The company has already opened new offices in Visakhapatnam, Coimbatore, Noida, and Kolkata. These strategic moves aim to empower local talent, create more balanced workforce distribution, and enhance overall employee satisfaction.

By investing in these talent hubs, Infosys is well on its way to achieving its goal of delivering 33% of its work through flexible and remote options by 2030.

Several Indian companies are embracing hybrid work models and remote work options. Even startups have adopted a "work from anywhere" approach to boost flexibility. Companies like Flyhomes, NoBroker, Meesho, Angel One (formerly Angel Broking), ITC Infotech, Magicpin, and Springworks have either gone fully remote or provided employees the opportunity to work from anywhere.

Multinational companies like Adobe Inc., Airbnb, Buffer, Gitlab, Zapier, Google, LinkedIn, Squarespace, Dell, and Oracle have also embraced the Indian remote-first, hybrid work model.

According to reports, nearly 70% of tech organizations in India have adopted a hybrid work model, and around 85% of India's tech workforce is working remotely or in a hybrid setup. Additionally, 92% of organizations believe that future work technology solutions played a critical role in organizational resilience during the pandemic.

These trends are continually evolving, and more companies are likely to adopt flexible work arrangements in the future.

Tata Electronics Partners Synopsys for Semiconductor Facilities in Gujarat and Assam

Tata Electronics has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Synopsys, a US-based chip design major, to collaborate on process technology and a foundry design platform, reported several media outlets. The collaboration reportedly aims to accelerate chip development at Tata Electronics' AI-enabled semiconductor fab plant in Gujarat's Dholera.

To recall, in March of this year Tata Electronics announced its partnership with Taiwan's Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC), for building India's first AI-enabled semiconductor fabrication facility (Fab) in Dholera, Gujarat. The fab construction, with a total investment of up to INR 91,000 crores (~US$11 billion), is set to begin this year. It's expected to generate over 20,000 direct and indirect skilled jobs in the region.

However, now the latest reports suggest Tata Electronics partnering with US based Synopsis. The reports have not mentioned that if this partnership is in addition to the previously announced collaboration with PSMC of Taiwan, or a standalone though both the partnerships are for the Dholera plant. It is to be noted however that Tatas haven't made any official announcement of partnership with Synopsis.

The upcoming Dholera Fab will have a manufacturing capacity of up to 50,000 wafers per month. It will incorporate next-generation factory automation, leveraging data analytics and machine learning for optimal efficiency.

Additionally, Tata Electronics plans to invest in a greenfield facility in Jagiroad, Assam, for the assembly and testing of semiconductor chips. These facilities will produce chips for applications across automotive, mobile devices, and artificial intelligence.

It was in March when Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stones for these semiconductor facilities, which will contribute to the development of India's indigenous semiconductor ecosystem.

The collaboration focuses on process technology. Synopsys, being a chip design leader, brings expertise in advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes. This knowledge can benefit Tata Electronics' fab plant in Gujarat by improving chip performance, yield, and efficiency.

The Dholera foundry design platform is crucial for chip design and layout. By leveraging Synopsys' tools and methodologies, Tata Electronics can streamline the chip design process. This platform ensures efficient, accurate, and reliable chip production. The combined efforts aim to accelerate chip development cycles. Faster design iterations lead to quicker time-to-market for semiconductor products. This is essential in today's competitive landscape.

The fab will manufacture chips for applications such as power management ICs, display drivers, microcontrollers (MCUs), and high-performance computing logic. These chips cater to growing demands in markets like automotive, computing, data storage, wireless communication, and AI.

Tata Electronics' entry into the global semiconductor industry is a significant milestone, aligning with India's vision of self-reliance and technological advancement.

Vodafone Group to Invest Upto Rs 3,000 Cr in Vodafone Idea after Indus Stake Sales

After monetizing its stake in telecom tower company Indus Towers Ltd, Vodafone Group Plc is planning to invest as much as ₹3,000 crore of equity in its Indian telecom joint venture, Vodafone Idea Ltd (Vi). This decision follows the recent successful sale of an 18% stake in Indus Towers for approximately €1.7 billion (around ₹15,300 crore).

The funds raised from the Indus stake sale will be used to repay outstanding bank borrowings secured against Indus Towers shares.

Additionally, Vodafone Plc may raise some amount in the form of debt to fund its investment in Vodafone Idea. The move aims to strengthen Vodafone Idea's network coverage and support the establishment of its 5G network in key geographies across India.

Besides, CNBC TV18 recently reported that Bharti Airtel is in talks with Vodafone Plc to buy an additional 3 percent stake in Indus Towers. If the transaction with Bharti Airtel is executed at a similar price range as the recent block deal, Vodafone Plc could garner an additional ₹2,500 crore.

Vodafone Group’s plans to invest equity into Vi come on the back of a successful Rs 18,000 crore follow-on public offering by the telco in April, which saw participation from investors such as GQG Partners, Fidelity, HDFC MF, and Motilal Oswal MF, among others.

Vi has faced significant regulatory dues, which have impacted its financial health. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had initially slapped an AGR demand of 58,000 crore on Vodafone Idea. However, the principal component of this demand is 25%, while the rest comprises interest, penalty, and interest on penalty. As of March 2024, Vi's total AGR dues stand at ₹70,320 crore.

Vi has filed a curative petition in the Supreme Court seeking relief. If successful, analysts estimate that its AGR liability could plunge by almost 46%, reducing the dues to around ₹38,400 crore. This relief would provide some cash flow relief, but Vi still faces significant annual payouts.

So far, Vi has paid 50% of its license fees and SUC dues for the March quarter. The company has assured the DoT that 90% of the dues for the June quarter will be cleared in a staggered manner along with interest payment.

After the four-year moratorium, Vi's annual dues repayment is expected to increase from the current 24,800 crore to ₹43,000 crore. Dues to the government are also projected to grow from 1.6 lakh crore (as of FY21) to 2.2 lakh crore after the moratorium ends.

In India’s 1st, Ministry Starts Underground Coal Gasification Project Converting It to H2, CO and CO2 for Industrial Uses

Ministry of Coal initiates India’s First Ever Pilot project for Underground Coal Gasification in Jharkhand

Initiative aims to Revolutionize the Coal Industry by using in-situ coal gasification to convert it into valuable gases such as methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide for industrial applications

Under the strategic direction of the Ministry of Coal, Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) has embarked on an innovative pilot project for Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) at the Kasta coal block in Jamtara District, Jharkhand.

This groundbreaking initiative aims to revolutionize the coal industry by using in-situ coal gasification to convert it into valuable gases such as methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. These gases can be utilized for industrial applications, including producing synthetic natural gas, chemical feedstocks for fuels, fertilizers, explosives, and more.

This project represents a significant milestone for Coal India Limited (CIL) and its subsidiaries, positioning India as a leader in adopting advanced coal gasification technology. As the pilot project progresses, it aims to establish new standards and enhance energy security while promoting sustainable development.

In December, 2015, the Ministry of Coal approved a comprehensive policy framework for UCG in coal and lignite-bearing areas. In alignment with this policy, Coal India selected the Kasta coal block to implement UCG technology tailored to Indian geo-mining conditions. Managed by ECL in collaboration with CMPDI Ranchi and Ergo Exergy Technologies Inc. (EETI) from Canada, this project spans two years and comprises of two phases.

Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) is a fascinating process that unlocks the energy potential of coal reserves located deep underground. A suitable coal seam is identified, typically at depths where traditional mining is challenging and wells are drilled into the coal seam from the surface. Oxygen or air is injected into the coal seam through one well, while another well collects the produced gases. The injected oxygen reacts with the coal, initiating gasification. Oxygen or air is injected into the coal seam through one well, while another well collects the produced gases. The injected oxygen reacts with the coal, initiating gasification. The high temperatures (around 1,000°C) cause the coal to undergo chemical reactions, releasing gases.

The primary gases produced during UCG include — Synthetic Gas or 'Syngas', a mixture of hydrogen (H₂) and carbon monoxide (CO); Methane (CH₄); Carbon Dioxide (CO₂); and other Hydrocarbons, depending on coal composition.

The collected gases are extracted through the second well. These gases can be used for various purposes as mentioned below:

• Syngas can fuel gas turbines or combined-cycle power plants.
• Syngas serves as a feedstock for chemicals.
• Hydrogen Production:Valuable for clean energy applications.
• Heat Generation: Methane can be used for heating.

Moreover, UCG reduces environmental impact compared to traditional coal mining:

• No Surface Mining: Minimizes land disturbance.
• Reduced Emissions: Syngas can be cleaner than burning coal directly.
• Carbon Capture: CO₂ can potentially be captured and stored.

Besides this, other companies invloved in UCG projects in the country include ONGC and Neyveli Lignite Corporation Limited (NLC). These organizations have jointly identified several sites for studying the suitability of Underground Coal Gasification (UCG). Location of sites are Tadkeshwar in Gujarat, Hodu-Sindhari & East Kurla in Rajasthan, and Surkha in Bhavnagar district, Gujarat.

Coal India Limited (CIL) is driving India's coal gasification mission. They have identified five surface coal gasification projects which include Shilpanjal Pariyojana (West Bengal), Project Utkarsh (Maharashtra), Dankuni (West Bengal), Ashoka (Jharkhand), Mahamaya SCG (Chhattisgarh). Two tenders have been issued in the build-own-operate model.

Apart from India, it's worth noting that China, with significant coal reserves, has been actively pushing for coal gasification. They adopt proven western-developed gasifiers to gain operational experience.

These initiatives demonstrate the growing interest in cleaner energy solutions and the efficient utilization of coal resources.

Tata Play's Net Loss Increases to Threefolds

Tata Play, a major direct-to-home (DTH) TV distribution operator in India, reported a net loss of Rs 354 crore for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024. This represents a threefold increase in losses compared to the previous year when they reported a net loss of Rs 105 crore.

The Tata Group promoted company's revenue from operations declined by more than 4% to Rs 4,304 crore, while expenses increased by 1.47% to Rs 4,761 crore.

Tata Play's DTH business slipped into a net loss of Rs 247 crore in FY24 against a net profit of Rs 20 crore in FY23. Revenue from the DTH segment dropped 7.45% to Rs 3,983 crore.

The company faced heightened competition in its DTH business, which contributed to the widening losses. Despite this, Tata Play's broadband business saw a narrower net loss and a 27% increase in revenue. The decline in DTH revenue is expected to be offset by growth in broadband and over-the-top (OTT) services.

As of now, there are four pay-for-use DTH service providers and one free-to-air service provider in India. The major DTH operators include — Tata Play (formerly Tata Sky), Airtel Digital TV (Bharti Telemedia), Dish TV, and Sun Direct.

Additionally, there's a free-to-air DTH service called DD Free Dish, operated by Prasar Bharati. These providers collectively cover more than 95% of the total pay TV viewing universe in India.

Tata Play's widening losses can be attributed to several factors:

1. Increased Competition: The DTH (direct-to-home) TV distribution market in India has become highly competitive, with multiple players vying for subscribers. This intense competition has led to pricing pressures and reduced margins for Tata Play.

2. Content Costs: Acquiring and broadcasting content (such as TV channels, movies, and sports events) involves significant costs. As Tata Play expands its offerings, content acquisition expenses have risen, impacting profitability.

3. Subscriber Churn: High subscriber churn rates (customers switching to other DTH providers or cord-cutting) affect revenue stability. Retaining existing subscribers and attracting new ones is crucial for sustained growth.

4. Regulatory Changes: Regulatory changes in the broadcasting industry can impact DTH operators. Compliance costs, license fees, and other regulatory requirements can add financial strain.

5. Shift to OTT Services: The rise of over-the-top (OTT) streaming services (like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar) has affected traditional DTH subscriptions. Consumers now have more choices, leading to a decline in DTH viewership.

6. Infrastructure Investments: Tata Play's expansion into broadband services and infrastructure investments (such as upgrading satellite transponders and set-top boxes) require substantial capital expenditure.

In summary, Tata Play faces a challenging landscape with fierce competition, changing consumer preferences, and rising costs. Addressing these issues will be crucial for improving profitability.