Dec 14, 2023 | Uncategorized
The global perma-crisis is set to continue to take its toll in 2024, as extreme weather events continue to impact organisations and global instability deepens.
This situation is giving rise to concerning levels of employee burnout. According to the latest International SOS Risk Outlook Report 2024, 80% of surveyed global senior risk professionals predict burnout will have a significant impact on businesses in the next year[1]. But only 41% of them feel that their organisations are equipped to deal with it.
It also provides a detailed view of some of the major risks which organisations must address in 2024 including the climate crisis, the power of AI, the evolution of employees’ expectations and worldwide unrest.
Udit Mehta, Executive Vice President and Director of Operations for International SOS comments “2024 will likely be a year that redefines a crises conundrum, with multiple risks driven by instability causing a considerable impact and consistent insecurity that organizations need to address. This coupled with the crisis management functions being continually challenged for a fourth year running since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic implies organizations would need to re-assess not just the resourcing of this critical function but also its placement in management structures.”
Mehta adds, “Concurrent to the survey forecasting an increase in risks faced by organizations in 2024, organizations would need to ensure proactive principles of mitigation are implemented in conjunction with instituting pre-emptive intelligence and analysis capacities. Organizations would also need to ensure partnerships with experts to understand their mobility and location linked exposure while juxtaposing the same with geo-political, geographical and industry-specific risk accrual. A forward leaning approach to address the challenges brought by this era of perma-crisis including expansion and evolution of the crisis and risk functions is critical for organizations to ensure endurance and resilience in the course of fulfilling growth objectives amidst the prevailing volatility.”
The International SOS Risk Outlook Report 2024: The Top 5 Predictions
Running on Empty – The Perma-Crisis Takes its Toll
In recent years, as the disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic began to subside, the emergence of the Ukraine/Russia conflict unleashed new waves of supply chain and service disruptions across various industries. With these ongoing stressors accumulating without respite, the risk of employee burnout is becoming increasingly tangible. The report’s findings noted that organisations have experienced a noticeable surge in stress-related absences. Surveyed respondents emphasise that the perceived risk level for the next 12 months is the highest ever recorded – 65% believe that global risks will continue to grow in 2024 – compounding their crisis management fatigue beyond pre-pandemic levels.
Climate Crisis – Climate Change Comes Home
Over the last 2,000 years, global temperatures have increased faster in the last half century than any other similar period, highlighting how relevant climate risk is now for businesses across the world[2]. One in four organisations reported that they have already seen their operations affected by events attributed to climate change, and this year the second biggest category out of the thousands of alerts issued by International SOS in 2023 was extreme weather events.
This comes as only half of respondents say they have factored climate change into their health and security plans, emphasising how vulnerable many organisations could be. This issue is certainly not going away, as approximately three-quarters of businesses report extreme weather as a challenge to their employees and operations in the coming year.
The continued impact of climate change on human health and wellbeing is now being acutely felt across the world. Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director – Indian subcontinent comments, “The past few years have seen a rapid and unpredictable rise in unfavourable climate events like heat waves, floods, cyclones and earthquakes, which affect the physical and psychosocial health of the workforce”. The recent floods in Chennai due to the severe cyclone Michaung are an example of the devastation and disruption extreme weather events will continue to cause in the foreseeable future.
The impact of air pollution (as is being witnessed across India and other subcontinent countries), post-flood vector-borne diseases, potable water scarcity and challenges in accessing healthcare, compounds the risk to organizational resilience.
It is now imperative that all current and future organisational climate action planning includes employee health and wellbeing as a key driver of sustainable business operations.
Global Instability Deepens
The second-highest security concern identified by respondents in this year’s survey revolves around geopolitical tensions. As a striking three out of four respondents expressed the belief that their organisations will face significant impacts in the coming year. Notably, the ongoing crisis in Israel and Gaza, as well as the persistent conflict in Ukraine, contribute to this unstable global environment. Civil and social unrest, coupled with political instability, rank as the next largest worries for organisations. The unpredictable nature of these events highlights the need for businesses to adopt robust security measures, proactively navigating the challenges arising from the dynamic global geopolitical landscape.
AI – Risks and Opportunities
AI has inspiring potential to create a new industrial revolution. However, for now, it further complicates the vital task of sorting reliable information from misinformation and deliberate disinformation for businesses. More than two out of five respondents of the Risk Outlook research said they were worried about the effect of medical misinformation and disinformation on their workforces. This rises to three in five when asked about inaccurate political information – a potentially difficult situation as the United States heads into a highly consequential election year.
The New Employment Contract
Three-quarters of surveyed organisations report increased employee expectations for Duty of Care. A similar number are now also shouldering duties previously seen as government responsibilities, including two-thirds who acknowledge extending responsibilities to support workers’ families in times of need. This underlines how the era of offering only basic occupational health services for work-related conditions is over. While still essential, occupational health provisions must be enhanced with diverse support and interventions to safeguard and nurture employees globally.
[1] The 2024 Risk Outlook, based on a survey of 675 global senior risk professionals, exposes gaps in the protection of employee health and security such as risk perception, mental health, productivity impacts and operational challenges. The survey is complemented with interpretations and predictions from the Workforce Resilience Council, as well as extensive proprietary data and analysis from International SOS. The Workforce Resilience Council is made up of representative experts from all health, security, and safety fields. The participants in this year’s Council are from a mix of think tanks, associations, advisory boards, NGOs, and IGOs, relevant to the risks of working at home or abroad.
Dec 14, 2023 | Uncategorized
Accor, a world-leading hospitality Group boasting more than 1,000 properties located across Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, is pleased to announce its latest addition to the Mercure portfolio in India. Developed in collaboration with Compass Enterprise Private Limited, led by Dr. Ganni Bhaskara Rao, the property is strategically located on the city’s main 100 Feet Road.
Rajahmundry stands out for its thriving industries and prominent bullion markets and is a significant Hindu pilgrimage destination. Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre is set to bring together a seamless fusion of authenticity and comfort across its 120 rooms. The hotel will elevate the dining experience with three unique Food and Beverage Outlets, complemented by an expansive 1,000 sqm Banqueting Facility for hosting grand events. Guests can indulge in holistic relaxation at the Fitness Centre and Spa, ensuring a memorable and rejuvenating stay.
Aniruddh Kumar, Vice President of Development, India & South Asia for Accor, promised an incomparable experience at Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre, stating, “This collaboration will enable us to contribute to Rajahmundry’s economic and cultural section, providing a world-class destination that reflects the city’s heritage and modern spirit. The opening of Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre marks another milestone in Accor’s journey to redefine the hospitality landscape in India”.
Dr. Ganni Bhaskara Rao, Chairman, Compass Enterprise Private Limited, part of GSL Group “Our family is proud to bring the first international branded hotel to this historical city. We are confident that Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre will set new standards in hospitality excellence,”
Mercure is a rare midscale brand that brings the strength of an international network with the promise of a genuinely local experience. Mercure hotels not only provide a guarantee of quality, but they also offer an immersive local experience, featuring unique interiors reflective of their regional culture, and filled with the personality, character, and individuality of the destinations in which each hotel resides. With locations in more than sixty countries around the world, Mercure is the ultimate place to discover, taste and share a truly enriching travel experience.
Accor currently operates 61 properties in India, under the Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure and Ibis brands. The Group has a strong pipeline of 30 properties currently under development in India.
Dec 14, 2023 | Uncategorized
Accor, a world-leading hospitality Group boasting more than 1,000 properties located across Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, is pleased to announce its latest addition to the Mercure portfolio in India. Developed in collaboration with Compass Enterprise Private Limited, led by Dr. Ganni Bhaskara Rao, the property is strategically located on the city’s main 100 Feet Road.
Rajahmundry stands out for its thriving industries and prominent bullion markets and is a significant Hindu pilgrimage destination. Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre is set to bring together a seamless fusion of authenticity and comfort across its 120 rooms. The hotel will elevate the dining experience with three unique Food and Beverage Outlets, complemented by an expansive 1,000 sqm Banqueting Facility for hosting grand events. Guests can indulge in holistic relaxation at the Fitness Centre and Spa, ensuring a memorable and rejuvenating stay.
Aniruddh Kumar, Vice President of Development, India & South Asia for Accor, promised an incomparable experience at Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre, stating, “This collaboration will enable us to contribute to Rajahmundry’s economic and cultural section, providing a world-class destination that reflects the city’s heritage and modern spirit. The opening of Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre marks another milestone in Accor’s journey to redefine the hospitality landscape in India”.
Dr. Ganni Bhaskara Rao, Chairman, Compass Enterprise Private Limited, part of GSL Group “Our family is proud to bring the first international branded hotel to this historical city. We are confident that Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre will set new standards in hospitality excellence,”
Mercure is a rare midscale brand that brings the strength of an international network with the promise of a genuinely local experience. Mercure hotels not only provide a guarantee of quality, but they also offer an immersive local experience, featuring unique interiors reflective of their regional culture, and filled with the personality, character, and individuality of the destinations in which each hotel resides. With locations in more than sixty countries around the world, Mercure is the ultimate place to discover, taste and share a truly enriching travel experience.
Accor currently operates 61 properties in India, under the Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure and Ibis brands. The Group has a strong pipeline of 30 properties currently under development in India.
Dec 14, 2023 | Uncategorized
Pune’s academic fraternity came together under one roof at MIT-WPU, Kothrud campus to urge India’s youth to be a part of the highly anticipated 13th Bhartiya Chhatra Sansad (BCS). Scheduled to take place at the MIT-WPU campus in Kothrud, Pune from January 10th to 12th, 2024, this three-day conclave, also known as the Indian Student Parliament, is a unique initiative aimed at empowering youth about democracy from diverse perspectives.
The prestigious inauguration session of 13th Bhartiya Chhatra Sansad will be adorned by esteemed dignitaries, including the respected Ex. Vice President of India, Venkaiah Naidu, distinguished Member of the UK’s Parliament House of Lords, Meghnad Desai, stalwart leader Sharad Pawar, accomplished President of the University of Vermont, Suresh Garimella, and seasoned Business Consultant Ramcharan. Their participation adds a unique blend of experience, expertise, and global perspectives, further enriching the significance of the event.
The preliminary program served as a lead-up to the main BCS event and saw the presence of esteemed education leaders from Pune, including Dr. Suresh Gosavi – Vice Chancellor of Savitribai Phule Pune University; Dr. M. D. Lawrence – Vice Chancellor of PA Inamdar University; Dr. Sanjay Chordiya – President of Suryadatta Group of Institutes; Dr. Nandkumar Nikam – President of Maharashtra Principal Federation; Dr. Sunil Adsule – Principal of St. Vincent College; and Dr. Devidas Golhar – Principal of Marathwada Mitra Mandal College, among others. The event was presided over by Lt. General A K Singh – PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, ADC (Retd.), Ex Southern Army Commander & Ex Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Island and Puducherry.
Rahul Karad, Executive President of MIT-WPU, commented, “I extend my thanks to all the esteemed guests and educators who have united today to encourage the youth to actively participate in the 13th Bharatiya Chhatra Sansad. BCS aligns with our overarching mission to foster the development of ethical, spirited, and competent public leaders in the country. These leaders will play a pivotal role in shaping our policies, revitalizing our democracy, and bridging the gap between the current state of governance and the way we aspire to be governed.”
The Bhartiya Chhatra Sansad (BCS) is a must-attend event for politically and socially active students, drawing participants from 25,000+ colleges and 400 universities. It’s a platform fostering democratic awareness and offering valuable insights, especially for those preparing for civil service exam interviews through engaging discussions and interactive sessions, expanding perspectives beyond traditional academic settings.
Prospective participants can secure their spot by registering at the official website, https://registration.bharatiyachhatrasansad.org, and completing the registration with a nominal fee. This three-day event not only provides a one of its kind networking platform for youth passionate about civic engagement but also facilitates connections with like-minded peers, experts, and leaders spanning diverse fields. Confirmed speakers for this year include Dr. Vikram Sampat ji, Adv. Abha Singh ji, Dr. Shehla Rashid ji, Shri. Imran Pratapgarhi, Swami Mukundananda ji, Smt. Khushbu Sundar ji. Attending this event ensures active involvement and participation in discussions covering both national and global issues.
Dec 14, 2023 | Uncategorized
Cosmo Films a global leader in speciality films for packaging, labelling, synthetic paper, and lamination applications recently launched Metalised Electrical grade BOPP films for Capacitor application. These Films are used for Capacitor manufacturing of various types of AC and DC Capacitors. These Capacitors have diverse application ranging from Electronics appliances, Industrial applications, Power Electronics, Automobile, Electric Vehicles, Renewable Power systems, etc.
These metalised capacitor grade films will be manufactured under clean room conditions with micro slitting capability and thickness ranging from 2.5 micron to 12 micron.
Speaking on the launch, Mr Kulbhushan Mallik, Global Business Head, Cosmo Films, “We, at Cosmo First, have proudly pioneered industry-first solutions for the past four decades. This strategic move aligns perfectly with the Cosmo Film’s vision of strengthening our global leadership in speciality films through innovative and sustainable solutions”.
There is lot of focus from Government to make the country self-reliant under Atmanirbhar Bharat Scheme and Electronics manufacturing and Electronics exports is a key initiative. Capacitors being an important component in electronics eco-system truly supports this Government initiative. Currently there is lot of imports happening of these electrical grade capacitor films from countries like China and with growing demand of high-quality Capacitor Grade Films, there is a large potential for these films for both domestic and exports market. The current installed capacity of these Metalised Films is approximately 750 MT per annum, and Cosmo Films will look to scale up this product category in future.
Dec 14, 2023 | Uncategorized
AstraZeneca India, a science-led biopharmaceutical company, today announced that it has received Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) approval to market its inhalation aerosol, a triple combination of budesonide (160 mcg), glycopyrrolate (9 mcg), and formoterol fumarate (4.8 mcg). The pressurized metered dose inhaler is recommended for the treatment and maintenance of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
COPD is the second leading cause of death in India, accounting for more than 50% of chronic respiratory diseases. It is the third leading cause of death worldwide. Coughing, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and fatigue are the symptoms of the disease. Smoking or using tobacco in any form, sedentary lifestyle choices, and air pollution are all risk factors for COPD.[1] The damage from exacerbations due to COPD extends beyond the lungs. The risk of a cardiovascular event rises dramatically during a severe hospitalised exacerbation.
In comparison to currently available dual therapies, this triple combination therapy is proven to considerably lower the rate of moderate to severe exacerbations[2], mortality rates[3], and increase lung function. The inhalation aerosol is highly recommended for all patients with a history of multiple exacerbations.
Dr. Anil Kukreja, Vice-President, Medical Affairs and Regulatory, AstraZeneca India added, “Preventing exacerbations is central to the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The triple combination therapy has clinically demonstrated a significant reduction in the rate of moderate or severe exacerbations as compared with other available dual therapies. The indication improves lung function, helps with COPD symptoms and prevents flare-ups. We are also looking at the possibility of extending benefit towards the complete spectrum of respiratory disorders like chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both.”
AstraZeneca is focussed on bringing medically differentiated life changing medicines in respiratory diseases viz. severe asthma and COPD. The company is leveraging its potential to deliver scientific breakthroughs and transform the lives of people through a rich 40-year experience in respiratory science.
Dr. Sanjeev Panchal, Country President & Manging Director, AstraZeneca India, said, “COPD is probably an underprioritized disease around the world. In India, government has already demonstrated its intent to manage COPD better by including it in National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS). With this approval, we are bringing science based novel therapy to India and bridging access to better therapies that can transform outcomes for COPD patients. This approval is also a strong example of innovative drug delivery technique that can target a common therapeutic challenge thereby reducing mortality as well as overall COPD disease burden.”
AstraZeneca aims to transform the treatment of severe asthma and COPD by focusing on biology-led treatment and precision-based therapies, eliminating preventable asthma attacks, and removing COPD as a leading cause of death.
