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India is resolved to lead the world in 6G, communications minister <keyword id="19999763" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jyotiraditya-Scindia" source="keywords">Jyotiraditya Scindia</keyword> said on Tuesday, terming the <keyword id="20434665" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="telecom-sector" source="keywords">telecom sector</keyword> of the country as 'aggressive' and 'ambitious'. Scindia, speaking at the inauguration of <keyword id="21058244" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India-Mobile-Congress" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="India Mobile Congress" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="India Mobile Congress">India Mobile Congress</keyword> and World Telecommunication Standardization (WTSA) 2024, said with the <keyword id="22506536" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bharat-6G-Alliance" source="keywords">Bharat 6G Alliance</keyword>, India hopes to contribute at least 10 per cent patents to 6G standardisation. "It is our belief and our commitment -- India followed the world in 4G, we marched with the world in 5G, but we shall lead the world in 6G," the minister asserted. With the fastest <keyword id="20366727" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="5G-rollout" source="keywords">5G rollout</keyword> in India wherein 98 per cent of districts and 90 per cent of all villages were covered in a span of just 21 months, Scindia said it is the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's effort of not just embracing, but bracing the country to become the first-mover in 6G technology. "It is noteworthy that the Indian Mobile Congress and the International 6G Symposium demonstrates both local and global advancements in 6G, and also design principles that will shape the future of telecom," he further said. The recent changes to the <keyword id="22077688" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Telecommunications-Act-2023" source="keywords">Telecommunications Act 2023</keyword> have been designed in such a way so as to modernise India's telecom framework, drawing light upon hitherto unaddressed areas such as the high potential sector of <keyword id="21282723" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="satellite-communications" source="keywords">satellite communications</keyword>, addressing the challenges of the digital era, the most important being <keyword id="20080676" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cyber-security" source="keywords">cyber security</keyword>, Scindia said. "The telecom sector, much like other growth-critical sectors in India, is aggressive, is ambitious, and its outlook in our journey from Amrit Kaal to Shatabdi Kaal is to lead the world," he said. India Mobile Congress (IMC) is an annual event organized by the Department of <keyword id="20204336" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="telecommunications" source="keywords">Telecommunications</keyword> (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). IMC 2024 will see participation from over 400 exhibitors, nearly 900 startups, and participation from 120+ countries. About 3,200 delegates from over 160 countries are part of the WTSA assembly. "We are confident that this (WTSA), along with the Indian Mobile Congress in its 8th edition... will serve as a breeding ground for innovation, but also showcase India's impending but inevitable emergence as a global hub for telecommunications across the world," Scindia said.

India set to lead global 6G revolution: Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia

<keyword id="19895282" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mumbai" source="keywords">Mumbai</keyword>, As many as 86 per cent of Internet users enjoy OTT (Over The Top) audio and video services, more than half of them from the hinterlands, making it the top use-case for Internet in the country, according to an industry report. The rise of digital entertainment services have been bolstered by the rise of smart TV, smart speakers, firesticks, chromecasts, growing at 58 per cent from 2021 to 2023 as more people are accessing video content over Internet-only devices (208 million) than conventional linear TV (181 million), said a report by the <keyword id="20749434" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="internet-and-mobile-association" source="keywords">Internet and Mobile Association</keyword> and the marketing data and analytics company <keyword id="20200137" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kantar" source="keywords">Kantar</keyword>. The report also finds that rural users are driving all these use-cases, accounting for more than 50 percent of the user base. The report, based on the inputs from over 90,000 households across all the states and Union Territories, barring <keyword id="20039270" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="lakshadweep" source="keywords">Lakshadweep</keyword>, was released at the ongoing India Digital Summit 2024. The second and third most popular use-cases of the Internet are communications with 621 million users, and social media with 575 million users. There were over 823 million active Internet users in the country as of 2023, meaning more than 55 per cent of people in the country have used the Internet last year, which is a modest 8 per cent growth over the previous year. At 442 million, rural users are in a majority, accounting for over 53 per cent of the total user base. From a gender perspective, the male-female ratio of Internet users rose from 71:29 in 2015 to 54:46 in 2023, which is almost at par with the overall sex ratio of the addressable population in the country, says the report. However, the report finds that net adoption growth rate has been decelerating with rural market, which has been driving Internet growth rates for the past many years, slowing down by 11 per cent in 2023 over 2022, pulling down the overall growth rate to 8 per cent. The report further said 57 per cent users prefer to access content in their local languages, with Tamil, Telegu, and <keyword id="19901815" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="malayalam" source="keywords">Malayalam</keyword> having the strongest language preference for content. States with the lowest Internet user base have the fastest growth rates now with Jharkhand (46 per cent penetration) and Bihar (37 per cent penetration) showing above average growth rates of 12 per cent and 17 per cent, respectively.

Most Internet users avail of OTT services; 53% of them from rural areas: Report

When it comes to smartphones, there are a few brands that have established themselves in the market and <keyword id="19900518" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="OnePlus" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="OnePlus" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="OnePlus">OnePlus</keyword> is one of them. The smartphone maker has carved a niche for itself in the industry over the years and its name is often associated with reliability. Now, as per latest reports, <keyword id="24155009" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="OnePlus-13R" source="keywords">OnePlus 13R</keyword> is all set to make its debut in India soon. According to a report in GSM Arena, the company is set to release its <keyword id="24224578" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ace-5-series" source="keywords">Ace 5 series</keyword> in China, with one of the models expected to make its way to global markets under the name OnePlus 13R. The phone will launch in China next month and is expected to make its debut in India in January 2025. <h4>A glimpse at the upcoming OnePlus 13R</h4><h4></h4>The OnePlus 13R, likely to be a rebranded Ace 5, is shaping up to be a powerful addition to the smartphone market. Reports suggest it will be powered by the cutting-edge <keyword id="20182185" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Snapdragon-8-Gen-3" source="keywords">Snapdragon 8 Gen 3</keyword> chipset, paired with a stunning <keyword id="24224579" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="6-78-inch-AMOLED-display" source="keywords">6.78-inch AMOLED display</keyword> boasting 1.5K resolution. A trio of cameras on the back – including a 50MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro camera – promises versatility for photography lovers. Battery life looks impressive, with the 13R rumoured to house a 6,500mAh powerhouse supporting <keyword id="24224580" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="100W-fast-charging" source="keywords">100W fast charging</keyword>. Leaked renders hint at a sleek and durable design, featuring a flat screen and premium materials. Meanwhile, the Ace 5 Pro, which will reportedly remain exclusive to China, will pack the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip – the same processor as the flagship OnePlus 13. Expected features include a telephoto camera and a slightly smaller battery than the Ace 5, but still substantial at over 6,200mAh. <h4>What else to expect?</h4><h4></h4>Rumours also point to the launch of a next-generation OnePlus Watch alongside the new smartphones. The anticipated <keyword id="24224583" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="OnePlus-Watch-3" source="keywords">OnePlus Watch 3</keyword> is expected to combine Google’s WearOS with a power-saving mode powered by a secondary operating system. Durable with an IP68 rating, it could cater to both tech lovers and fitness enthusiasts. With the global release of the OnePlus 13R expected in January 2025, fans worldwide won’t have to wait long to experience OnePlus’s latest innovations. Whether it’s the premium design, powerful specs, or new features, the December launch is likely to set the stage for an exciting year ahead in mobile technology.

OnePlus 13R expected to launch in India soon, here is everything we know

New Delhi, In a fillip to 'Make in <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword>' initiative, India saw mobile phones exports worth $5.5 billion (over Rs 45,000 crore) in the April-August period in the ongoing fiscal year (FY24), government and industry data showed on Wednesday. As per the estimates by the Department of Commerce and the <keyword id="7825659" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="india-cellular-and-electronics-association" source="Orion">India Cellular and Electronics Association</keyword> (<keyword id="6816005" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="icea" source="Orion">ICEA</keyword>), accessed by IANS, the April-August period saw mobile phone exports worth $5.5 billion, against $3 billion (about Rs 25,000 crore) in the same period in FY22-23. According to industry sources, <keyword id="6354427" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="apple" source="Orion">Apple</keyword> led the India-made phone exports in the April-August period, surpassing more than 50 per cent of the total estimated figure for the first time, followed by <keyword id="10591" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="samsung" source="Orion">Samsung</keyword>. In the June quarter, Apple shipped nearly 50 per cent of the country's total 12 million smartphone shipments, as compared to Samsung's 45 per cent export, sources told IANS. This is the first time Apple has surpassed its South Korean counterpart Samsung in smartphone export volumes from the country, as it saw robust iPhone 15 series sales and demand which was over 100 per cent (or 2 times) as compared to last year. India is set to cross Rs 1,20,000 crore in mobile phone exports in the current fiscal year, with Apple leading the market with more than 50 per cent in FY24. Driven by domestic manufacturing, Apple iPhones are also set to garner 7 per cent market share in the Android-dominated smartphone market this year, according to latest data. Apple iPhone shipments grew 68 per cent (year-on-year) in the first half of this year in the country. In the first half, Apple secured a 6 per cent market share in the Indian smartphone market and dominated the super-premium smartphone segment (priced between Rs 50,000-Rs 100,000) with a robust 63 per cent market share, according to market research firm CyberMedia Research (CMR). For the first time, Apple sold India-made iPhone 15 and 15 Plus on the first day of its global sales, with exporting those units to a few other markets as well. There are estimates that the iPhone 15 shipments in the launch quarter, which heralds the massive festive season in India, will hover around 65 per cent, driven by an increased 'Make in India' initiative. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/webstories/bajaj-pulsar-n150-vs-yamaha-fz-s-v3-bikes-comparison-of-price-and-features/slidelist/103985134.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/webstories/bajaj-pulsar-n150-vs-yamaha-fz-s-v3-bikes-comparison-of-price-and-features/slidelist/103985134.cms" target="_blank">Bajaj Pulsar N150 vs Yamaha FZ-S V3 – The bike to consider under ₹1.25 lakh</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/bentley-flying-spur-hybrid-hits-indian-roads-in-bid-to-go-greener/slidelist/103979187.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/bentley-flying-spur-hybrid-hits-indian-roads-in-bid-to-go-greener/slidelist/103979187.cms" target="_blank">Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid hits Indian roads in bid to go greener</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/pixel-8-launch-on-oct-4-from-camera-to-design-specifications-what-we-know-so-far/articleshow/103924696.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/pixel-8-launch-on-oct-4-from-camera-to-design-specifications-what-we-know-so-far/articleshow/103924696.cms" target="_blank">Pixel 8 launch on Oct 4 – From camera to design specifications, what we know so far</a>

Mobile phone exports from India cross Rs 45,000 cr in April-Aug period, Apple leads

A <keyword id="19925751" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mobile-app" source="keywords">mobile app</keyword> could help predict if a pregnant woman will develop depression in the latter stages of pregnancy, according to new <keyword id="19913261" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="research" source="keywords">research</keyword>. By asking women to respond to surveys during their first trimester, researchers identified various risk factors, including <keyword id="20015710" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sleep-quality" source="keywords">sleep quality</keyword> and <keyword id="20406931" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="food-insecurity" source="keywords">food insecurity</keyword>, for developing depression. "We can ask people a small set of questions and get a good sense of whether they'll become depressed," said lead author Tamar Krishnamurti, an associate professor of general internal medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, US. "Strikingly, a lot of risk factors for future depression are things that are modifiable -- such as sleep quality, concerns about labour and delivery and, importantly, access to food -- meaning that we can and should do something about them," said Krishnamurti. Identifying women vulnerable to developing depression in the earlier stages of pregnancy could help tailor preventive care and offer support to address underlying causes, the researchers said. For the study, the researchers analysed the survey responses of 944 <keyword id="19905236" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pregnant-women" source="keywords">pregnant women</keyword> who used the app as part of a larger study and did not have a history of depression. In their first trimester of pregnancy, the women responded to questions about demographics and their medical history, along with those on stress and feelings of sadness. Some of the 944 women also responded to optional questions on social factors related to their health, such as food insecurity. All women were screened for depression once every trimester. The researchers developed six machine-learning models using all the data. The best one was found to be 89 per cent accurate in predicting depression in a pregnant woman. A machine learning algorithm is a form of artificial intelligence that learns from past data to make predictions. The accuracy of the model rose to 93 per cent when the researchers included the responses to optional questions on health-related social factors. They found that food insecurity, or access to food, emerged as an important risk factor for pregnant women to develop depression in the latter stages of pregnancy. The researchers are now developing methods to integrate these survey questions into clinical settings and identifying how clinicians could have these conversations with patients about the risk of depression. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/tata-altroz-racer-hatchback-launched-in-india-starting-at-9-49-lakh/articleshow/110798203.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/tata-altroz-racer-hatchback-launched-in-india-starting-at-9-49-lakh/articleshow/110798203.cms" target="_blank">Tata Altroz Racer hatchback launched in India starting at ₹9.49 lakh</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/webstories/nvidia-beats-apple-becomes-second-most-valuable-company-top-10-companies-by-market-cap/slidelist/110793951.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/webstories/nvidia-beats-apple-becomes-second-most-valuable-company-top-10-companies-by-market-cap/slidelist/110793951.cms" target="_blank">Nvidia beats Apple, becomes second most valuable company: Top 10 companies by market cap</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indian-smartwatch-shipments-remain-flat-in-q1-2024-the-year-expected-to-end-in-a-decline/articleshow/110789121.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indian-smartwatch-shipments-remain-flat-in-q1-2024-the-year-expected-to-end-in-a-decline/articleshow/110789121.cms" target="_blank">Indian smartwatch shipments remain flat in Q1 2024, annual shipments expected to end in a decline</a>

Mobile app may predict depression in pregnant women

French carmaker <keyword id="20312151" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="citroen" source="keywords">Citroen</keyword> on Monday said it will supply 4,000 units of its electric vehicle <keyword id="16079223" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="e-C3" source="Orion">e-C3</keyword> to <keyword id="20125728" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="blusmart-mobility" source="keywords">BluSmart Mobility</keyword>, over a period of 12 months. Citroen and <keyword id="20354062" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="blusmart" source="keywords">BluSmart</keyword> Mobility, a vertically integrated eMobility ride-hailing and EV charging service provider, have signed a memorandum of understanding for the same. As part of the initial phase, 125 Citroen e-C3 were flagged off from BluSmart's EV charging superhub in Bengaluru, the company said in a statement. "This collaborative effort between Citroen and BluSmart Mobility signifies a shared vision for a sustainable future in the realm of electric mobility, reaffirming our commitment to shaping a cleaner and greener transportation ecosystem," <keyword id="20964798" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="citroen-india-brand" source="keywords">Citroen India Brand</keyword> Director, <keyword id="20565839" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shishir-mishra" source="keywords">Shishir Mishra</keyword> said. He further said, "BluSmart's foray in the shared electric mobility space is a well applauded initiative that offers convenient and safe urban mobility without any tailpipe emission strengthening our collective mission to decarbonise cities by making EVs mainstream." The e-C3 features such as an operational range of 320 kms as per Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), fast charging capabilities, and intuitive technology, make it an attractive proposition for passengers and fleet operators, Mishra added. BluSmart Co-founder &amp; CEO Anmol Jaggi said, "As more Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) embrace eMobility, and our fleet size expands, we are poised to address the burgeoning demand for ride-hailing services in Indian megacities while offering riders a diverse range of advanced EVs." SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/webstories/poco-x6-neo-5g-vs-redmi-note-13-5g-which-phone-should-you-buy-under-20000/slidelist/108586427.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/webstories/poco-x6-neo-5g-vs-redmi-note-13-5g-which-phone-should-you-buy-under-20000/slidelist/108586427.cms" target="_blank">Poco X6 Neo 5G vs Redmi Note 13 5G – Which phone should you buy under ₹20,000?</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/new-ev-policy-elon-musks-tesla-may-soon-enter-india-as-import-taxes-slashed-for-electric-vehicles/articleshow/108527306.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/new-ev-policy-elon-musks-tesla-may-soon-enter-india-as-import-taxes-slashed-for-electric-vehicles/articleshow/108527306.cms" target="_blank">New EV Policy: Elon Musk’s Tesla may soon enter India as import taxes slashed for electric vehicles</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/best-smartphones-under-30000-in-india/slidelist/108472033.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/best-smartphones-under-30000-in-india/slidelist/108472033.cms" target="_blank">Best smartphones under ₹30,000 in India</a>

Citroen to supply 4,000 units of EV e-C3 to BluSmart Mobility in 12 months

<ul><li><keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword> cross record more than ₹85,000 crore in mobile exports in the fiscal year ending March 31.</li><li>Buoyed by attractive government incentives towards local manufacturing, India surpassed a remarkable $10 billion worth smartphone exports in the fiscal year 2022-2023.</li><li>Smartphone exports from India have doubled from a corresponding period from the last fiscal year, driven by production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes.</li></ul>New Delhi, The government push towards local manufacturing of consumer electronics items has helped India cross record more than ₹85,000 crore in mobile exports in the fiscal year ending March 31, industry data showed on Saturday. Buoyed by attractive government incentives towards local manufacturing, India surpassed a remarkable $10 billion worth smartphone exports in the fiscal year 2022-2023, according to the data provided by the <keyword id="7825659" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="india-cellular-and-electronics-association" source="Orion">India Cellular and Electronics Association</keyword> (<keyword id="6816005" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="icea" source="Orion">ICEA</keyword>) to IANS. Smartphone exports from India have doubled from a corresponding period from the last fiscal year, driven by production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes. The top five global destinations India currently exports mobile phones to are the UAE, the US, the Netherlands, the UK and Italy, according to the ICEA data. "The mobile phone industry will cross $40 billion manufacturing output and 25 per cent exports at $10 billion is a stellar performance," Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman of ICEA, had earlier told IANS. More than 97 per cent of the smartphones sold in India are now being produced locally. India is now the second largest mobile phone manufacturer in the world. According to Minister of State for Electronics and IT, <keyword id="205969" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="rajeev-chandrasekhar" source="Orion">Rajeev Chandrasekhar</keyword>, the year 2023 will be a milestone as the country will cross Rs 1 lakh crore in mobile phone exports this year. India is likely to produce 45-50 per cent of Apple's <keyword id="57315" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="iphones" source="Orion">iPhones</keyword> by 2027, at par with China, where 80-85 per cent of iPhones were produced in 2022. According to estimates, India and Vietnam are to become the biggest beneficiaries of smartphone supply chain migration out of China. India accounted for 10-15 per cent of iPhones' overall production capacity at the end of 2022. Apple became the first smartphone player in India to have exported $1 billion worth iPhones in the month of December. It currently manufactures iPhones 12, 13, 14 and 14 Plus in the country. The country is now moving in a different direction, "which is largely export-focused and led by the government's performance-linked scheme (PLI) pusha. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/cert-in-warns-of-high-severity-vulnerabilities-in-apple-products-urges-immediate-action/articleshow/99231900.cms">CERT-In warns of high-severity vulnerabilities in Apple products, urges immediate action</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/googles-new-features-to-simplify-travel-planning-including-a-mobile-friendly-hotel-browsing-feature-a-price-guarantee-badge-for-flights-and-more/articleshow/99235884.cms">Google’s new features to simplify travel planning, including a mobile-friendly hotel browsing feature, a price guarantee badge for flights, and more</a>

India surpasses ₹85,000 cr worth mobile phone exports in FY23

New Delhi, The <keyword id="128625" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="internet-and-mobile-association-of-india" source="Orion">Internet and Mobile Association of India</keyword> (<keyword id="149966" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="iamai" source="Orion">IAMAI</keyword>) on Thursday raised concerns over privacy and implementation in response to the proposal of the <keyword id="30356" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="telecom-regulatory-authority-of-india" source="Orion">Telecom Regulatory Authority of India</keyword> (TRAI) mandating telecom service providers to display callers' names. The IAMAI argued that the TRAI's proposal to make it mandatory for telcos to enable Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) presents a material risk to the privacy of Indian citizens. It may also endanger individuals preferring not to be identified to the caller and open up individuals from vulnerable populations to targeted harassment, argued the industry body. According to TRAI data, there are approximately 1145.5 million wireless subscribers and 26.5 million wireline subscribers in India (as of September 2022). "The implementation of CNAP for such a massive quantum of users would require telecom providers to put in place a secure, synchronised, and robust system capable of supporting billions of calls daily. This will require a significant overhaul of the current telecom infrastructure, resulting in carriers incurring huge costs," said the IAMAI. Moreover, it will create a large privacy risk to users. In light of these issues, the IAMAI has recommended that TRAI consider providing citizens with an 'opt-in' approach as an alternative. "Giving citizens a choice to voluntarily opt in and out of CNAP services will ensure that citizens' choices and preferences are put at the forefront while ensuring that their right to privacy is protected," said the industry body. The TRAI has called a meeting with mobile phone operators on February 17 to discuss the quality of wireline and wireless services, especially around the 5G rollout.

TRAI's move to display callers' names endangers privacy, imposes costs says industry body IAMAI

If you step out into <keyword id="19895037" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="bengaluru" source="keywords">Bengaluru</keyword> traffic these days, there’s a good chance you’ll discover a bulky water tanker spearheading the all-too-familiar clog in traffic. Amidst the ongoing <keyword id="6355836" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="water-crisis" source="Orion">water crisis</keyword>, India’s Silicon City has mobilised thousands of tankers that zip, almost heroically, across the city, rescuing parched residences from the metro’s urban planning crisis. Bidding to reduce their reliance on the exorb<keyword id="6354185" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="it" source="Orion">it</keyword>ant tankers — a necessary step after the exhaustion of half the city’s groundwater-fed borewells — many residential societies have begun innovating water-saving techniques, with varying degrees of success. However, for the several businesses and industries littering the metropolitan town, it seems like dark days are looming. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="IT in turmoil" comment="subhead" text="IT in turmoil">IT in turmoil</cmsannotation> Hosting over 1,400 tech companies that employ tens of lakhs of employees, Bengaluru has certainly earned its title as India’s ‘Silicon Valley’. Not only has this driven a rapid boom in economic, infrastructural and industrial development, the city has acted as a magnet for people looking for attractive employment opportunities. Unfortunately, this success has also resulted in <a href="https://bpac.in/bangalore-population-growth-consequences-and-possible-solutions/" data-type="tilCustomLink">population levels haphazardly spiking</a> from 2,900 people per square kilometre in 2001 to 4,300 within a single decade. Estimates suggest that this figure may have breached 8,000 by now! In addition to deterring water-cooler conversations, the lack of water in their workplaces have led to several companies already urging employees to work from home. Echoing a growing sentiment among the city’s techies, <a href="https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/it-companies-in-bengaluru-urged-to-give-15-lakh-employees-wfh-option-as-city-grapples-with-water-crisis/articleshow/108761390.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">ex-Chief Justice K Sreedhar Rao also pleaded</a> for temporary remote arrangements for migrant IT workers to depopulate Bengaluru till the water crisis is dealt with. However, many such multinational employees have already begun to preemptively take matters into their own hands by temporarily or permanently moving to other cities, such as the nearby Mysuru. Needless to say, this has disrupted operations for many companies, including some of the top IT firms in Bengaluru. In a surprising turn of tragic events, senior personnel at <keyword id="19969515" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="dell" source="keywords">Dell</keyword> have begun skipping meetings to prioritise their procurement of water, reported the Deccan Herald. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Real estate rates to fall; restaurants forced to adapt" comment="subhead" text="Real estate rates to fall; restaurants forced to adapt"><keyword id="6354553" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="real-estate" source="Orion">Real estate</keyword> rates to fall; restaurants forced to adapt</cmsannotation> With pleasant weather the year round, Bengaluru has proven itself time and again as an excellent place to settle down and relax. The city’s diverse population is a testament to its uncanny ability to draw people from all over India, even before the city’s notable IT boom. Real estate has now hit an all-time high, with high demand and attractive financial options helping the sector grow exponentially in the past few decades, reportedly recording a staggering nine-year-high 54,000 housing units sold in 2023. However, the city’s recent water woes have left potential property investors second-guessing. According to a recent Deccan Herald poll, around 60% of the respondents noted that they have postponed their move to Bengaluru due to the ongoing shortage, while a similar number of people have also begun evaluating investment options in other cities. Homebuyers have also begun to diligently inquire into <keyword id="55273" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="groundwater" source="Orion">groundwater</keyword> borewell depths and water-saving technologies when consulting developers. While <a href="https://www.deccanherald.com/business/bengaluru-water-crisis-alarms-property-investors-dh-poll-2930539" data-type="tilCustomLink">many contractors remain firm</a> that these reactions are not representative of a long-term trend, some experts have predicted that a fall in property prices may become inevitable. A <a href="https://www.republicworld.com/business/real-estate/bengaluru-water-crisis-property-prices-in-peenya-hsr-layout-marathahalli-to-fall-15-say-experts/" data-type="tilCustomLink">Republic report</a> explains that house rates could fall up to 10-15% in the most water-stressed regions of East and Central Bengaluru, including HSR Layout, Marathahalli, Rajaji Nagar and Peenya. Needless to say, the crisis has also taken a toll on Bengaluru’s various hotels and eateries, many of which are severely dependent on tanker water for cooking, cleaning and drinking purposes. Krishna Raj, owner of the popular <keyword id="21126683" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nisarg-grand-hotel" source="keywords">Nisarg Grand Hotel</keyword>, <a href="https://www.livemint.com/news/india/bengaluru-water-crisis-news-hotels-disposable-utensils-shortage-lok-sabha-polls-karnataka-dk-shivakumar-congress-bjp-11710055127680.html" data-type="tilCustomLink">explained</a> that they might have to begin serving food in disposable utensils if the trend continues into the summer months. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Industrial district parched" comment="subhead" text="Industrial district parched">Industrial district parched</cmsannotation> Located in Northwest Bengaluru, Peenya is home to thousands of industries of varying sizes, producing a host of electronics, textiles, packaging, machines and other consumer items. However, being one of the largest industrial areas in Asia hasn’t protected its businesses from the ongoing crisis. In an <a href="https://www.business-standard.com/industry/news/bengaluru-water-crisis-to-impact-local-industries-in-coming-weeks-experts-124030601026_1.html" data-type="tilCustomLink">interview with Business Standard</a>, <keyword id="21126682" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="peenya-industries-association" source="keywords">Peenya Industries Association</keyword> President H. M. Arif explained that the area’s micro-industries are strained to the point that many could be forced to close soon if the water crisis continues unmitigated. Many such sectors have also become hopelessly reliant on tanker water, and the associated rising costs have begun to bottleneck the manufacturing process. Prices of several commercial products could go up soon if this trend continues. “Many from the hosiery or garment sector need water for processing,” Arif explains. “You need water for workers as well as other needs. The government is saying it will source recycled water for the industry. But for that, there is a tendering process and at this rate, we will not get water this season.” <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Solutions and cautious optimism" comment="subhead" text="Solutions and cautious optimism">Solutions and cautious optimism</cmsannotation> This is not to say that the government isn’t taking measures to tackle the crisis. After ordaining centralised control over water tankers and actively regulating prices to ensure the city’s water isn’t hoarded solely by the rich, officials also placed bans on recreational water use. In addition, initiatives are underway to “inject” 1,300 million litres of purified water into the city’s drying lakes per day, which the officials allege will help restore local groundwater levels. <keyword id="19927086" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bwssb" source="keywords">BWSSB</keyword> has also announced plans to build an array of next-gen water treatment plants near restored lake beds to purify and deliver water wherever required. Addressing the harsh summers ahead, Karnataka government officials have expressed optimism that the completion of the Cauvery Five — a massive array of treatment plants that will treat sewage to produce 100 million litres of water a day — will help make up for any deficits by July. Meanwhile, many large corporations, including Microsoft, have begun utilising water-saving tap aerators to control water flow in the Bagmane Business Park offices. The city’s water board, the BWSSB, has also launched four mobile apps to help tackle the city’s water crisis. Attempting to bridge a gap between the water department and the citizens it serves, these apps will help residents book water online, apply for borewell permissions, report water misuse and more. At 24% of its total capacity, reservoirs across Karnataka are also drying up. Despite growing shortages, the state government has assured that the Cauvery River reservoir that supplies water to Bengaluru holds sufficient water levels to last at least until June. After that, the pre-monsoon and monsoon rains are expected to replenish the water resources. However, the supply remains much lower compared to the demand, and the only way to survive this summer could be to adopt drastic water-saving measures and a few good spells of pre-monsoon showers.

Water crisis affects businesses across Bengaluru; Is there room for cautious optimism?

<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword> requires an investment support of USD 1.4 trillion — an average of USD 28 billion per year — to become a net-zero economy by 2070 and raising <keyword id="20260327" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="financial-resources" source="keywords">financial resources</keyword> for adaptation and mitigation action of this scale is an "unprecedented challenge", according to the <keyword id="20613906" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Economic-Survey" source="keywords">Economic Survey</keyword> 2023-24 tabled in Parliament on Monday. Reaching net zero means achieving a balance between greenhouse gas emissions and the amount of these gases removed from the atmosphere by either natural processes, such as photosynthesis, or by other methods of carbon capture and storage. The consolidated report on the state of the economy in the previous year said India's climate action has been largely financed through domestic resources and the flow of international finance has been "very limited". Citing the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) data, the report said bridging the "substantial funding gap" necessitates allocating 2.5 per cent of India's annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to <keyword id="20018880" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-finance" source="keywords">green finance</keyword>. "Preliminary estimates indicate that the aggregate investment support required by India to achieve its 2070 net-zero target will be USD 1.4 trillion at an average of USD 28 billion per year. Raising financial resources for <keyword id="19907392" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-change" source="keywords">climate change</keyword> adaptation and mitigation actions of this scale is an unprecedented challenge," the document read. A 2022 report by the Climate Policy Initiative found that domestic sources accounted for the majority of green finance in India, at 87 per cent and 83 per cent in financial years 2019 and 2020 respectively. While international sources are increasing (from 13 per cent in FY 2019 to 17 per cent in FY 2020), the economic survey said they are still insufficient to meet India's net-zero target. "Mobilising substantial capital from traditional sources presents multifaceted challenges in emerging economies like India. The perceived sovereign risks associated with emerging market and developing economies (EMDEs) and the capital-intensive nature of such projects, coupled with lengthy gestation periods and evolving regulatory frameworks, can create misalignment between investor expectations and project timelines," the government said. The economic survey also noted that the flows of global capital to <keyword id="20200084" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="developing-countries" source="keywords">developing countries</keyword> have been impeded by high costs of capital. Despite securing a good rating on its green-bond framework, Indian sovereign <keyword id="20177085" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-bonds" source="keywords">green bonds</keyword> have hardly received any "greenium" from private investors. It is more a "wall of capital" than a "flood of capital" that is waiting to fund energy transition in EMDEs. It is just not mobile. All of these together have severely hampered the flow of finance for green-transition projects, the survey said. "Greenium" or green premium refers to the savings an issuer of a green bond realises on the associated coupon payment because the bond is green. Financial support to help middle-income and poor countries fight climate change will be at the centre of this year's UN climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, where the world will reach the deadline to agree on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) -- the new amount developed nations must mobilise every year starting 2025 to support climate action in developing countries. But achieving consensus will not be easy, given the disappointing progress made on major conflict points at the mid-year UN climate talks in Bonn, Germany. At the 2009 UN climate conference in Copenhagen, rich nations pledged to provide USD 100 billion annually from 2020 to help developing countries mitigate and adapt to climate change. However, delays in achieving this goal have eroded trust between developed and developing nations and have been a continual source of contention during annual climate negotiations. In May, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) claimed that developed countries had met the long-standing USD 100 billion-a-year promise by providing nearly USD 116 billion in <keyword id="20000757" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-finance" source="keywords">climate finance</keyword> to developing countries in 2022, with nearly 70 per cent of the money given in the form of loans. However, international non-profit organisation Oxfam last week said climate finance provided by rich countries in 2022 totalled no more than USD 35 billion. Developing nations argue that they cannot be expected to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions faster if developed countries -- historically responsible for climate change -- do not provide enhanced financial support. Rich countries are now expected to raise more than USD 100 billion, with developing countries, including India, demanding trillions of dollars to tackle climate change.

Raising massive financial resources for net-zero goal unprecedented challenge: Economic Survey

<ul><li>The Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (<keyword id="2746593" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="smev" source="Orion">SMEV</keyword>) has sent a petition to a Parliamentary Standing Committee on unpaid subsidies.</li><li>The industry body said the allegations against EV manufacturers regarding violation of localisation norms were ‘fake’ and ‘mischievous’,</li><li>The EV body highlighted the disruptions caused by Covid-19 for two years and the 12-month delay in subsidies.</li></ul>Electric vehicles (EVs) have become quite popular in <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword> over the past few years, with traditional companies also jumping on the EV bandwagon. In addition to the rising fuel prices, another major cause for adoption of EVs in the country has been the subsidy provided by the government as part of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (<keyword id="6523642" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fame-ii" source="Orion">FAME-II</keyword>) scheme. The Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV), an association of Indian EV manufacturers has sent a petition to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Electric &amp; Hybrid Mobility, Energy, and Estimates, raising the issue of subsidies. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Subsidies worth ₹1,200 crore withheld" comment="subhead" text="Subsidies worth ₹1,200 crore withheld">Subsidies worth ₹1,200 crore withheld</cmsannotation> SMEV has said that ₹1,200 crore worth of subsidies have been withheld, causing a serious liquidity crisis in the industry. This is holding up the industry despite the supply chain being ready, it said. “Current trends are showing a slowing down of EV adoption due to the financial stress for the industry, which has been besieged by irritants designed to disturb the momentum of FAME 2,” SMEV said. The industry body has gone as far as to say that the unpaid subsidies are killing the EV revolution in the country. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="EV body claims emails that brought FAME-II under government lens are fake" comment="subhead" text="EV body claims emails that brought FAME-II under government lens are fake">EV body claims emails that brought FAME-II under government lens are fake</cmsannotation> For those unaware of the issue, the FAME-II scheme, which was announced in 2019 has been under the government’s scanner for some time now. A<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/government-is-reportedly-reworking-the-fame-ii-scheme-to-ensure-companies-use-domestic-components/articleshow/93752352.cms"> report</a> in 2022 even suggested that the government may re-work the scheme. The controversy around the scheme began when a whistleblower claimed that EV makers were violating the localisation norms and claiming fraudulent subsidies. SMEV, however, dismissed these as “mischievous emails” and claimed that the delay in subsidies has been due to these emails. “Most of the debate on localisation - the prime misdemeanours held against OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) so far - is a matter of degrees and a subject of minor negotiations. Most OEMs have struggled over the last three years to secure local parts that adhere to quality standards but have achieved localisation to greater or smaller degree providing for availability,” SMEV said. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="SMEV credits FAME-II for EV revolution" comment="subhead" text="SMEV credits FAME-II for EV revolution">SMEV credits FAME-II for EV revolution</cmsannotation> The EV body highlighted the importance of the government’s FAME-II scheme in helping the EV industry and paving the way for an EV revolution in the country. “SMEV believes that FAME 2 initiative is a path­ breaking, pioneering policy architecture that has not only opened up the EV sector dramatically, but has prepared the market to take off in full swing”, the association said. FAME got derailed by the ‘fake emails’ the industry body claimed. Talking about the challenges faced by the EV manufacturers, the body highlighted the disruptions caused by Covid-19 for two years and the 12-month delay in subsidies. The delay in subsidies has squeezed the working capital of companies that have already passed on the benefit to customers, resulting in a drop in industry volumes. SMEV has called for the industry and the government to work together to solve the issues and put the country back on track to meet its e-mobility targets. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/ather-finally-focuses-on-affordable-electric-scooters-after-losing-its-lead-to-ola-electric-and-tvs-motor/articleshow/99456189.cms">Ather finally focuses on affordable electric scooters after losing its lead to Ola Electric and TVS Motor</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/17-of-people-store-financial-information-on-their-smartphones/articleshow/99426637.cms">Despite a rise in financial frauds, 17% of people store financial information on their smartphones</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/most-common-passwords-can-be-easily-cracked-by-ai-in-under-a-minute/articleshow/99379900.cms">AI chatbots are cracking the code: How PassGAN can break into 51% of common passwords in under a minute</a>

Unpaid subsidies worth ₹1,200 crore leading to ‘serious liquidity crisis’ among EV makers, says industry body

<ul><li><keyword id="2440542" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="esports" source="Orion">Esports</keyword> has witnessed a massive growth in <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword> over a short span of time. A recent EY report stated that the esports industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 46% to touch ₹11 billion by 2025. </li><li>Rajan Navani, Vice Chairman &amp; Managing Director, JetSynthesys writes on the state of esports in India and what opportunities lie ahead.</li></ul>Young 23-year-old <keyword id="8670455" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tirth-mehta" source="Orion">Tirth Mehta</keyword> picked up his bags and flew to Jakarta back in 2018. Just another passenger, not a lot of people recognized the new athlete the <keyword id="84384" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="asian-games" source="Orion">Asian Games</keyword> was going to see that year. His homecoming however was an elaborate celebration filled with politicians, prominent personalities, citizens, friends, and family congratulating him on winning the bronze in Hearthstone, the esports demonstration event at the Asian Games 2018, becoming India’s first esports medallist at the global tournament. Cut to 2021, the gaming industry cheered for yet another win as esports would finally debut as an official medal sport at the 19th Asian Games 2022, a landmark event in the history of the gaming industry. Probably on the path to being recognized at the <keyword id="6360967" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="olympics" source="Orion">Olympics</keyword> as well, the category has witnessed a massive growth over a short span of time. Even though a nascent industry, it is already pulling in the big bucks and contributing to India’s economy; something which especially came handy at a time when the world was hit with the biggest black swan event of the decade, the Covid-19 pandemic. A recent EY report stated that the esports industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 46% to touch ₹11 billion by 2025. With the country's esports industry growing at a faster pace than the global esports industry, India is also concentrating on growing its prize pool which is expected to grow at 66% CAGR to reach ₹1 billion by 2025. One of the major factors for this is that esports is no longer a metro phenomenon. In fact, for the first time in history, rural India has a higher internet penetration than metros with 227 million active internet users, which is 10% higher than urban India at 205 million, as per the <keyword id="128625" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Internet-and-Mobile-Association-of-India" source="Orion">Internet and Mobile Association of India</keyword> (IAMAI). This internet and mobile penetration helps bring a fragmented market together, making esports a major driving force for the gaming industry in India. Needless to say, it is up to the many stakeholders of the sector to ensure its bright future materialises so let’s promptly deep dive into the potential growth areas and the next steps for each. First up are the players and the companies who make up the core ecosystem. The aforementioned EY report states that India has 1,50,000 players and around 60,000 teams currently and the number is expected to grow at 78% CAGR by 2025 to reach 1.5 million players and 250,000 teams. As esports becomes a viable profession, especially for the youth, brands operating in the space have their job cut out too – 1. make next-gen, compelling games which can engage Indian-origin sensibilities and sensitivities, and 2. motivate players through monetary incentives, recognition, and awards to train and play better. A special shoutout to Real Cricket here - the first Indian esports game the world will play and compete in! Also, with esports cutting across borders, it has paved the way for vernacular content creators to connect with their community easily, and for gamers across the board to come to the centre-stage. In fact, esports competitions in India and internationally are now broadcasted in many Indian languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali, and Punjabi apart from English to make the sport further accessible and inclusive across the length and breadth of the country. This growth will be further propelled by the increase in prize money, more games, localization, regional adaptation and growth of smartphone, laptop, and broadband infrastructure. Government bodies will also play an instrumental role in taking esports in India to the next level by setting the right framework to promote participation. All of this and more will help people understand the depth behind this form of gaming, and also help sensitize parents about the virtues of esports as a viable career option. After all, it’s not just about those who actively play the sport but also about the trainers, coaches, casters, commentators, and many others who make up the support ecosystem. As a country, we are also steadily building the infrastructure for this industry with gaming houses and esports academies being created where players can train and spend time honing their skills. Brands and companies are pumping in financial investments, and ramping up sponsorships, contributing to the largeness of the sport. Globally, Europe, USA and Korea are the leading market for esports, but India, with its huge player base and enthusiasm is catching up fast with the global biggies, carving out its own coveted niche. Few months back, India saw the third edition of the Skyesports Championship record a concurrent viewership of 227K and 5 million one-day views, breaking viewership records and acting as a fantastic proof point for the high traction esports content generates already. Next year, as we compete in the Asian Games, one hopes this number will skyrocket even further, and more Tirth Mehtas will celebrate their moment under the sun.

You Searched For "Mobile Association of India" and got 12 results

India set to lead global 6G revolution: Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia

PTI

Most Internet users avail of OTT services; 53% of them from rural areas: Report

PTI

OnePlus 13R expected to launch in India soon, here is everything we know

BI India Bureau

Mobile phone exports from India cross Rs 45,000 cr in April-Aug period, Apple leads

IANS

Mobile app may predict depression in pregnant women

PTI

Citroen to supply 4,000 units of EV e-C3 to BluSmart Mobility in 12 months

PTI

India surpasses ₹85,000 cr worth mobile phone exports in FY23

IANS

TRAI's move to display callers' names endangers privacy, imposes costs says industry body IAMAI

IANS

Water crisis affects businesses across Bengaluru; Is there room for cautious optimism?

Ankush Banerjee

Raising massive financial resources for net-zero goal unprecedented challenge: Economic Survey

PTI

Unpaid subsidies worth ₹1,200 crore leading to ‘serious liquidity crisis’ among EV makers, says industry body

Sourabh Jain

Why esports is the latest gaming frontier to conquer

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