JSW Infrastructure Wins 30‑Year PPP Mandate to Expand Kolkata Dock System, Scaling Container Capacity to 1.8 Million TEUs

JSW Infrastructure Limited (“the Company”) has received a Letter of Award (“LOA”) from the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority (“SMPA”), pursuant to a competitive bidding process, for the integrated development of the Outer Container Terminal comprising of two berths and five berths at Netaji Subhas Dock (NSD) at the Kolkata Dock System (“the Project”).

The Project has been awarded on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis under the Public‑Private Partnership (PPP) framework and is aimed at enhancing container handling capacity, improving operational efficiency, and supporting growing trade volumes in the region. Under the concession agreement with a 30-year tenure, the Project will be executed in two phases and is expected to create a total capacity of approximately 0.93 million TEUs.

This award builds on the Company’s earlier LOA for the reconstruction of Berth 8 and mechanization of Berths 7 and 8 at NSD, Kolkata (0.45 million TEUs), with interim operations expected to commence shortly. Together, these two projects meaningfully expand the Company’s footprint at one of India’s key eastern gateway ports and reinforce its strategic presence in the Kolkata Dock System. Upon completion, and including the capacity from the ongoing Berth 7 and 8 project, the Company’s combined container handling capacity at the Kolkata Dock System is expected to scale up to approximately 1.4 million TEUs.

The development is underpinned by strong demand fundamentals benefiting from a well-established hinterland and a high concentration of cargo originating from the Kolkata metropolitan region. Both the projects are expected to address existing capacity constraints at NSD, improve berth productivity through mechanization, and enhance vessel turnaround times.

Strategically, this marks the Company’s second win at SMPA within a year, further consolidating its position as a key private sector participant in the Government’s port privatization and PPP framework. Upon completion of the identified container growth projects, the Company’s overall container handling capacity is expected to increase to approximately 1.8 million TEUs. The addition of incremental container capacity is aligned with the Company’s strategy to further diversify into the container segment and progressively scale up its third‑party cargo business, thereby enhancing its overall cargo mix across geographies.

Bangur Concrete Launches 26th RMC Plant to Power Kolkata’s Infrastructure and Real Estate Boom

Bangur Concrete, part of the ‘Bangur’ Master Brand of Shree Cement Ltd., has commissioned a new Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) plant in Baidyabati, Kolkata. With a production capacity of 60 cubic meters per hour, the launch expands the company’s nationwide network to 26 RMC plants.

The Baidyabati plant has been developed to cater to the region’s rising infrastructure, industrial, and real estate needs by delivering reliable, high-quality, and performance-driven concrete. Located strategically within the Hooghly district, the facility is well-positioned to ensure timely supply to key projects across Kolkata and its surrounding growth corridors.

Commenting on the development, Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement Ltd., said, “West Bengal is an important market with strong potential in both urban and industrial development. The commissioning of our new Ready-Mix Concrete plant in Baidyabati strengthens our presence in eastern India and reiterates our commitment to supporting the state’s growth ambitions. This facility reflects our focus on providing sustainable, high-quality construction solutions while contributing to India’s infrastructure progress.”

RMC Plant

With the addition of the Baidyabati unit, Bangur Concrete now operates 26 RMC plants across India, each featuring advanced batching systems, stringent quality control, and eco-compliant processes to ensure consistency, efficiency, and operational excellence.

The new facility integrates modern batching technology, optimized material handling, and efficient logistics to accelerate project timelines with lower environmental impact. This expansion reinforces Bangur Concrete’s mission of advancing green construction practices while supporting India’s transition towards a low-carbon future.

About Shree Cement Limited

One of the leading cement groups in India, Shree Cement Limited (‘SCL’) (BSE: 500387/ NSE: SHREECEM) is known for its industry leading green credentials, cutting edge innovative practices and cost leadership. It follows ‘highest standards of Corporate Governance and has a long history of enjoying stakeholders’ trust. Shree Cement is known for its high-quality products which are manufactured at advance manufacturing facilities across India and UAE. It is determined to deliver the most sustainable building material solutions to its consumers.

What Career Advantages Come with Jobs In Kolkata?

What makes Kolkata one of India's most promising cities for career growth? Known as the cultural capital of India, it is also becoming a professional hub across industries such as IT, finance, education, and healthcare.

With established companies and growing startups, jobs in Kolkata are attracting both young graduates and experienced professionals looking for meaningful opportunities. The city's work culture blends tradition with innovation, offering balance, affordability, and growth.

Today, with an expanding job market and diverse opportunities, the city continues to attract ambitious professionals seeking stability, growth, and long-term success. If you are exploring your next career move, let's see the advantages that make jobs in Kolkata a strong and rewarding choice.

Top 5 Career Advantages of Working in Kolkata

Kolkata's economy is evolving quickly, supported by strong infrastructure, skilled professionals, and diverse industries. People across different fields can find opportunities that align with their skills while enjoying a better quality of life.

Below are five major advantages that make the city of Kolkata worth considering for long-term career success.

1. Expanding IT and Technology Sectors

The IT and technology sector in Kolkata is growing rapidly. It is creating a wide range of opportunities for professionals in software development, analytics, cybersecurity, and technical support.

Kolkata continues to see steady growth in employment as multinational and domestic companies expand their operations and open new offices across the city. With businesses adopting digital transformation, there is a strong demand for skilled talent, making this sector one of the most promising for long-term career growth.

Professionals with skills in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data management are especially in demand. As technology continues to evolve, jobs in Kolkata within this sector offer continuous learning, career advancement, and exposure to innovative global projects.

2. Strong Financial and Banking Opportunities

Kolkata has been a financial centre for decades and remains home to several banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions. Jobs in Kolkata are available for accountants, analysts, bankers, and investment professionals who wish to build long-term careers in finance.

In addition, fintech firms are expanding their presence in the city, bringing together finance and modern technology. These roles offer exposure to digital payments, financial data, and innovation-driven work environments. For finance professionals, Kolkata provides a mix of traditional expertise and modern growth avenues.

3. Growing Hybrid and Remote Work Opportunities

The rise of flexible work models has made jobs in Kolkata even more appealing. Many companies now offer hybrid and remote roles, allowing professionals to work with national or international clients while staying close to home.

This flexibility supports better work-life balance, reduces commute time, and helps professionals collaborate across global projects. Employees can explore a wider range of roles without relocating, gaining exposure to different work cultures and industries.

With reliable internet infrastructure and digital adoption, remote work in Kolkata is becoming a sustainable career option for the future.

4. Startup Exposure and Entrepreneurial Growth

Kolkata's startup ecosystem is expanding across sectors such as fintech, healthtech, and digital media. These ventures provide exciting jobs in Kolkata where professionals can take on diverse responsibilities, learn quickly, and contribute directly to company growth. Startups often value creativity and initiative, giving employees the chance to gain hands-on experience and leadership skills early in their careers.

Working in a smaller, fast-changing environment helps professionals build adaptability and problem-solving skills. For those with entrepreneurial ambition, this exposure can serve as the perfect foundation for launching independent ventures later on.

5. Competitive Compensation-to-cost Ratio

One of the most underrated advantages of job opportunities is the high value professionals get from their earnings. Salaries in key sectors like IT, finance, and marketing are now comparable to other metros, while the cost of living remains significantly lower.

This balance gives professionals greater financial freedom, helping them save more and maintain a comfortable lifestyle without constant financial pressure. Lower expenses also allow for better investment in upskilling, travel, or personal goals.

With strong income potential and manageable costs, professionals in Kolkata can achieve long-term financial stability more easily.

Together, these advantages make this field an excellent choice for professionals seeking steady growth, financial security, and a healthy work-life balance. The city's changing industries, rising digital opportunities, and supportive environment create the right platform for a successful and fulfilling career journey.

Build a Rewarding Career with Jobs in Kolkata

Kolkata offers stability, learning, and growth across multiple industries. The city provides a balance between affordability and opportunity, making it ideal for professionals at every stage of their careers. From IT, finance, healthcare, or creative fields, Kolkata offers a wide range of options for advancement and fulfilment.

For recent graduates, it is a great place to gain experience and build a foundation. For mid-level professionals, it brings long-term stability. For experts, it allows innovation and leadership. Explore job opportunities in Kolkata today through trusted online job platforms like Apna Jobs. Find the role that matches your skills and take the next confident step towards a successful career in Kolkata.

Infosys Inaugurates Development Centre in New Town, Kolkata

Infosys recently inaugurated a state-of-the-art development centre in New Town, Kolkata. The facility, built at a cost of Rs 426 crore, spans 50 acres and has the capacity to employ 4,000 IT professionals. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee attended the inauguration and described it as a "New Year gift" to the state.

The development centre is designed to drive innovation in cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation across various industries. It also aligns with Infosys' commitment to sustainability, featuring green building standards such as energy-efficient cooling systems, smart building automation, rainwater harvesting, and wastewater recycling.

This new facility is part of a broader plan to develop a "Silicon Valley" hub in New Town, which is projected to create 75,000 jobs and involve an investment of Rs 27,000 crore.

New Town, Kolkata, is an emerging tech hub and a rapidly developing area in the eastern part of the city. It's known for its modern infrastructure, planned urban layout, and focus on creating a conducive environment for IT and other industries. The recent inauguration of the Infosys development centre in New Town is a significant milestone, as it's expected to create 4,000 jobs and contribute to the region's economic growth.

The area is also part of a larger plan to develop a "Silicon Valley" hub in New Town, which aims to attract more IT companies and create 75,000 jobs with an investment of Rs 27,000 crore. This initiative is expected to boost local employment, foster innovation, and enhance the overall IT landscape in West Bengal.

Kolkata's Bose Institute's Scientists Led Experiment to Explore Quantum Theory's Limits

An international team of scientists, led by researchers from the Bose Institute in Kolkata, has devised an experiment to explore the limits of quantum theory for objects much more massive than typical microphysical objects. This experiment aims to understand the boundary between quantum mechanics and classical mechanics for larger objects.

The experiment seeks to test the domain of validity of quantum theory for arbitrarily massive objects. This involves demonstrating quantum behavior in objects much larger than those previously tested.

This could help bridge the gap between quantum mechanics and classical mechanics, providing insights into how quantum principles apply to macroscopic objects.

Quantum theory, also known as quantum mechanics, is a fundamental theory in physics that describes the behavior of particles at the smallest scales, such as atoms and subatomic particles. It's one of the most successful theories in science, having been confirmed by numerous experiments and observations.

Notably, the boundary between the quantum mechanical microworld and the large scale macroscopic classical world of everyday objects obeying Newtonian Laws remains unspecified. The question--up to what level the quantum mechanical principles be valid for macroscopic objects-- continues to be one of the most fundamental open questions in contemporary physics.

Prof. Dipankar Home from Bose Institute, Kolkata, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), in collaboration with D. Das, S. Bose (University College London) and H. Ulbricht (University of Southampton, UK) have formulated a novel procedure for demonstrating an observable signature of quantum behaviour for an oscillating object like pendulum having any large mass.

He emphasized that the findings could pave the way for developing high-precision quantum sensors, which are crucial for emerging quantum technologies.

The team performing experiment, include researchers from University College London and the University of Southampton, used lasers to suspend a single nanocrystal of silica (a microscopic glass bead) as it oscillates around the focal point of a small parabolic mirror. This setup allows them to detect measurement-induced disturbances in the quantum mechanical pendulum.

The findings could pave the way for developing high-precision quantum sensors, which are crucial for emerging quantum technologies. It also addresses fundamental questions about the applicability of quantum principles to macroscopic object.

This experiment is a significant step towards understanding the quantum mechanical nature of larger objects and could have practical applications in quantum technology.

Quantum theory has led to many technological advancements including Semiconductors, Quantum Computing, and medical imaging.

The famous Double-Slit experiment demonstrated wave-particle duality by showing that particles create an interference pattern when not observed, but act as particles when observed.

Quantum theory continues to be an area of active research, with scientists exploring its implications for our understanding of the universe.

Kolkata Scientists at SNBNCBS Develop Unique Transistor for Faster, Greener Electronics

Scientists at the S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS), Kolkata, which is Under Department of Science and Technology (DST), Govt. of India, have developed a unique transistor using single molecules, controlled by mechanical forces rather than traditional electrical signals. This innovative approach, known as the mechanically controllable break junction (MCBJ), involves creating a sub-nanometer gap in a metal wire to accommodate a single molecule like ferrocene.

A transistor is a fundamental component in modern electronics, used to amplify or switch electronic signals and electrical power. It is used in various devices, including computers, smartphones, and amplifiers, making them crucial for modern technology.

The transistor's performance is influenced by the orientation of the ferrocene molecules between electrodes, which can either enhance or diminish electrical conductivity. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in quantum information processing, ultra-compact electronics, and low-power molecular devices.

Dr. Atindra Nath Pal and Biswajit Pabi, in collaboration with their team, conducted experiments and discovered that the orientation of ferrocene molecules between silver electrodes significantly affects the transistor's performance. Depending on the molecular orientation, the device can either enhance or diminish electrical conductivity through the junction, underscoring the importance of molecular geometry in transistor design.

Going forward, the scientists at SNBNCBS explored gold electrodes with ferrocene at room temperature. This combination resulted in a surprisingly low resistance, nearly five times the quantum of resistance (around 12.9 kΩ), but significantly lower than the typical resistance of a molecular junction (around 1 MΩ). This suggests the possibility of creating low-power molecular devices.

It's a breakthrough development for the future of electronics, making them faster and more energy-efficient.

How does the mechanically gated transistor work?

Mechnical gating response of Ferrocene molecule connected between two silver electrodes

The mechanically gated transistor operates by using mechanical forces to control the flow of electrical current through a single molecule. Here's a simplified breakdown of how it works:

1. Mechanically Controllable Break Junction (MCBJ): This technique involves creating a tiny gap in a metal wire, just large enough to fit a single molecule. This gap is controlled mechanically, often by bending the wire.

2. Single Molecule Placement: A molecule, such as ferrocene, is placed in this gap. The molecule acts as the active component of the transistor.

3. Mechanical Force Application: By applying mechanical forces (e.g., stretching or compressing the wire), the orientation and position of the molecule can be altered.

4. Conductivity Modulation: The electrical conductivity between the electrodes is influenced by the molecule's orientation. When the molecule is aligned in a certain way, it can either enhance or reduce the flow of electrons, effectively acting as a switch.

5. Signal Control: Unlike traditional transistors that use electrical signals to control current flow, this transistor uses mechanical forces, which can lead to lower power consumption and potentially faster switching speeds.

This innovative approach could pave the way for more energy-efficient and compact electronic devices.

Molecular structure of Ferrocene

TSAW Drones To Initiate First-of-Its-Kind B2C Medicine Drone Delivery Service in Kolkata; Partners with Kanhaiya Life Care Medicine

The vision behind the collaboration is to provide swift and efficient delivery of medicines to patients at their doorsteps while also cutting down on the delays caused by road traffic

Drone tech startup TSAW Drones has announced a strategic partnership with Kanhaiya Life Care Medicine to initiate a first-of-its-kind B2C medicine drone delivery service in Kolkata. The vision behind the collaboration is to provide swift and efficient delivery of medicines to patients at their doorsteps while also cutting down on the delays caused by road traffic.

The Hind Motor warehouse of Kanhaiya Medical shall avail of the innovative service of drone-assisted parcel pickup to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted transportation process for their vital medical supplies to a diverse range of recipients, including local residents, law enforcement personnel, and loyal patrons. The said parcels shall be conveyed to the Howrah drone hub of TSAW Drones, whereupon the final leg of the journey shall be undertaken by TSAW’s skilled bikers, who shall ensure the seamless delivery of the parcels to their respective destinations.

TSAW Drones' Drone at Kanahaiya Life Care Medicine Event

Mr. Arpit Sharma, AVP of TSAW Drones, said “TSAW Drones is honored to join hands with Kanhaiya Life Care Medicine in introducing cutting-edge drone technology to the healthcare sector in Kolkata. Our pioneering business-to-consumer (B2C) medicine drone delivery service will herald a paradigm shift in the way medical supplies are transported to those requiring them, guaranteeing swifter, more streamlined, and more secure transportation. We are excited to be at the forefront of this innovative approach to healthcare delivery and look forward to improving the lives of many in the Kolkata community.”

“By leveraging TSAW Drones’ advanced logistics service with our profound proficiency in the field of pharmaceuticals, this tie-up is poised to transform the delivery landscape in the healthcare industry, providing customers with unparalleled access to essential medications and enhancing the overall quality of healthcare services in the region. The B2C medicine drone delivery service will initially be rolled out in handpicked areas of Kolkata, with plans to serve other locales in the near future. Buyers will be able to place orders through our website and tele caller facility and can expect delivery within minutes” said Mr. Satyajit Roy, Consultant, Kanhaiya Life Care Medicine. 

The inaugural event for medicine drone delivery service in Kolkata took place on April 18th, 2023. The event was held at Hind Motor – 208 Battala bye lane-2, near Ramakrishna Parisad Club, Hind Motor, Ward No—7, Kolkata 712233, and was witnessed by a large no. of attendees.

TSAW’s drone logistics arm DRONECO’s infrastructure has been instrumental in significantly curtailing the average delivery duration for medicine covering a road distance of 17.6 kilometers, which previously entailed an hour of travel time. With the drone-assisted transport covering a distance of 11 kilometers and completing the task within a mere 8 minutes, the startup has demonstrated its prowess in optimizing and streamlining logistical processes.

Bengaluru, Kolkata to be included in World Bank's Doing Business Report

The World Bank will now include Kolkata and Bengaluru, besides Delhi and Mumbai, for preparing ease of doing business report to provide a holistic picture of business environment of the country, an official has said.

"The country of the size of India was not properly represented by just two cities, and now with the inclusion of Kolkata and Bengaluru, Indian ranking in the World Bank's report will present a much better picture," the official said.

The report ranks 190 nations based on ten parameters, which includes ease of starting a business, construction permits, getting electricity, getting credit, paying taxes, trade across borders, enforcing contracts and resolving insolvency.

The official added that the exercise to include these two new cities has already been initiated and would be included in the World Bank's ranking in the years to come.

The annual World Bank's Doing Business 2020 report is expected to be released tomorrow.

According to the official, India's rank is expected to improve further in the report from the current 77th position.

India improved its ranking on the World Bank's 'ease of doing business' report for the second straight year, jumping 23 places to the 77th position on the back of reforms related to insolvency, taxation and other areas.

India was ranked 100th in the World Bank's Doing Business 2018 report.

In the 2019 report, India had improved its rank on six out of the 10 parameters relating to starting and doing business in a country.

New Zealand topped the list of 190 countries in ease of doing business, followed by Singapore, Denmark, and Hong Kong.

The United States is placed eight and China has been ranked 46th. Neighbouring Pakistan is placed at 136.

Ranking helps in improving parameters which are essential to attract both domestic and foreign investors. PTI RR CS

Kolkata's BCC&I ties with China Development Bank-backed PE Fund Infinity to boost Startups in W.Bengal

Kolkata, West Bengal-based Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCC&I) has signed an MoU with the Infinity Group, a private equity fund backed by China Development Bank, to boost the technology and startup ecosystem in West Bengal, as 53% of startups in the state are in incubation stage, reported Business Standard.

As per the signed MoU, Companies in IT & Technology, Startup ventures and International Trade delegates referred by BCC&I, can utilize and leverage state of art facilities of Infinity Business Centre for co-working offices, meeting rooms, conference rooms, training rooms at special rates for a mutually specified time agreed upon.

Indrajit Sen, president of the Bengal Chamber, said, "The objective is to encourage entrepreneurship and facilitate deserving potential entrepreneurs a platform to initiate Start Ups which would be a contribution to the Tech Start Up Movement of the State."

Headquartered in Tel Aviv, Infinity has its offices in Beijing and over 16 other location. The firm focuses on investing in companies based in China, Israel and North America within the information technology, communications, life sciences, healthcare devices, healthcare services, biotechnology, agriculture, agritech, materials, manufacturing, energy, clean-tech, internet, gaming, semiconductors and wireless technologies sectors.

Established in 1853, BCC&I also arranged a special Japan hour to collaborate with that country with special focus on start-ups called the "Indo-Japan Start-up Hub".

Established by the agreements of the governments and activities of Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the Indo Japan Start-up Hub at Bengaluru started its operations in May 2018.

The partnership is expected to bring unique and quality products and solutions built jointly between India and Japan at global stage, Sen said.

Besides making special connect with JETRO in facilitating technology-focused business-to-busineses connects, BCC&I is also in discussion with JETRO for collaborations on Webel-BCC&I Tech Incubation Centre to extend enabling ecosystem to incubates, said Arnab Basu, Chairperson, IT Committee, The Bengal Chamber.

Kolkata gets it's first Fintech Incubator 'Fincubation' by a group of IIT and IIM Alumni

Kolkata gets it's first Fintech incubator - Fincubation, an initiative by a group of IIT and IIM educated industry experts with over 100 years of cumulative experience in the domain of finance. The fincubated companies will get industry expert's valuable lessons which they have learned the hard way in building their ventures and get access to over 1 million users onboarded by the existing operating products.

The platform will be helping the first-time entrepreneurs in Ideation, Feasibility Testing, Developing and validating business plans, Business and entrepreneurship training, Networking opportunities and Fund raising. Along with mentorship and guidance Fincubation provides the startups with resources, such as, co-working spaces to both locations with powerful computers, latest configurations, High-speed connectivity, 24/7 power backup,IT support team, Spacious work areas, Conference halls and Meeting rooms.

NASSCOM incubated Robo advisory startup Findvise Services Pvt. Ltd. is already getting incubated by Fincubation. Findvise, is a financial planning and investment advisory providing automated financial solutions with data and behavioral analysis through its app. Launched in January 2018, this smart Robo advisory platform aims to mitigate the challenges faced by the medium and lower income group in India that bars them from meeting their financial aspirations. Within a short time span of a year, Findvise is amongst the 4 start-ups from the Eastern part of India, selected for Nasscom’s first accelerator program. Findvise ranked within the top 10 most promising fintech startups by FICCI start-up Launchpad, the American consulate, Sillicon Valley-India, Nasscom and many others. 

Commenting on this initiative Mr. Vivek Bajaj, Managing Director Kredent InfoEdge “We believe that the financial inclusion in our country has just begin and we need more and more tech enabled solution providers to cater to various needs of retail participants. Through this initiative, we are not just helping deserving entrepreneurs to reach to the critical mass but also building an entire ecosystem around our products, which is helping our growing user base to get more value from us. A clear win-win situation for everyone. We are very selective in our selection process and we would like to work with people who share similar passion of simplifying finance for everyone”

The Founders

Vivek Bajaj-Director,Kredent Enterprises: A Chartered Accountant, Company secretary and a Post Graduate in Management from IIM Indore. He is an active financial market participant and speaker in various universities, IITs and IIMs.

Vineet Patawari -Co-founder & CEO, Elearnmarkets & StockEdge: a Chartered Accountant and a Post Graduate In Management from IIM Indore. He is an expert in driving growth strategy and its execution through product innovation, product marketing and brand building.

Vinay Pagaria-Co-Founder,StockEdge & Technology Head, Elearnmarkets: A Chartered Accountant and a qualified System Auditor (DISA) from ICAI by education, but software development runs in his blood. He has over 15 years of experience and is the technology lead for Fincubation

Rajib Ranjan Borah- Co-Founder & Director, Irage Broking Services LLP: A PGDM from IIM Calcutta and leads the proprietary trading business of iRage. He is also an expert in Algorithmic Trading and has been a regular speaker in many international conferences.

An Idea to Replicate S.Korea & Japan's Model of Virtual Grocery Stores for Kolkata Metro

Kolkata Metro, a rapid transit system serving the Kolkata metropolitan area, traces its root since year 1971 when its first master plan was envisaged. With 300 metro services daily carrying over 650,000 passengers, Kolkata Metro is the second busiest metro system in India however for quite some time its running in losses so much that the it has to spend Rs 300 to earn Rs 100 of revenue.

To revive the business of Kolkata Metro, a group of few noble students from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Calcutta, have come up with an idea in which they have suggested that e-commerce majors like Flipkart or Amazon should be roped in to start India's first of its kind virtual grocery stores on station walls.

This idea coming from IIM-Calcutta is a result of commissioned request from Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation (KMRC) where the later has asked IIM-C to restructure its revenue model. A team of 3 MBA students -- Alan Shaji Idicula, Urjaswit Lal and Tushar Kumar, came up with this idea of installing wall-length billboards designed to look like a series of supermarket shelves.

Alan Shaji Idicula, who's one of the members of IIM-Calcutta Team proposing the idea of virtual grocery store, explained the idea as -- the digital billboards will display product images along with the QR code. Passengers can scan the code to order daily-use products like groceries and FMCG items. The concept marries the two distinct models of traditional brick and mortar shops and e-commerce.

Around 20 teams of IIM students studied different metro stations to find additional sources of revenue after which Alan’s team was selected as the winner by KMRC.

Alan Shaji Idicula said their proposal is to bring Flipkart/Amazon on board and start India’s first virtual grocery stores on Metro walls.

Notably, the idea is quite similar to what European supermarket chain Tesco (known in South Korea as Home Plus) -- in 2011 -- had done in South Korea by putting grocery store shelf mock-ups on subway platforms to launch the world’s first Virtual Grocery store.

In 2012, Tesco had also opened the UK's first interactive virtual grocery store in Gatwick's North Terminal, which is in southeast of England.

Comparing the proposed plan of IIM-Calcutta with the Tesco's virtual grocery store in South Korea's Seoulleung subway station, then Tesco's virtual grocery store too comprises of pictures of products that are posted with QR codes underneath. Shoppers use their smartphones to scan the QR codes of the items they want. The products in their virtual shopping carts are delivered right to the customers’ homes at their selected delivery time.

Indrani Banerjee, who is Kolkata Metro spokesperson, told LiveMint, "We are trying to implement it. The idea is to increase our non-fare revenue so that there is no burden on passengers. We are trying to utilise our space in the best possible manner". She however did not divulge any details whether they have approached any e-commerce company to implement this idea.

The team also proposed to earn revenue through train wrap ads, hoardings and digital kiosks and paid wi-fi services inside Metro trains.

Additionally, the team of IIM-Calcutta also calculated that KMRC can easily earn an additional revenue of Rs 20 crore just by renting/leasing out 68,478 sq. ft. of un-utilised space, at 20 Metro stations in Kolkata, for shops and advertisements.

Notably, such virtual stores are also gaining attention in stations of Japan as well as in the U.S. In 2012, a leading Internet grocer of the U.S., Peapod.com, launched more than 100 virtual grocery stores at commuter rail stations in Boston, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C. and Chicago.

News sourced via Live Mint.

W. Bengal To Launch Series of Voice-Activated Apps for Unorganized Sector like Rickshaw, Toto and Phuchka Sellers

In a recently held Digital Success Summit 2018 in Kolkata, West Bengal, the state IT secretary Debasish Sen disclosed that the state government is working on an app-based technology, which will have voice-activated and artificial intelligence (AI) related commands, for unorganised sectors including rickshaw pullers, Puchka sellers, or Toto (a new concept of e-rickshaw in the state).

Debasish Sen however also said that these app-based services can be availed only in case a person has a smartphone. "if you need the service of a toto, a rickshaw or a phuchka seller at your doorstep, you cannot contact them like in case of the app cabs or the food delivery apps," he said.

"We are trying to find out means by which voice-activated artificial intelligence (AI)-related commands and devices will enable the rickshaw puller, a toto driver or the phuchka seller understand your command language," said Sen in the event touted as eastern India's first & foremost holistic Digital Summit.

Late last month, the state IT & Electronics department minister Bratya Basu had too announced that West Bengal will get a series of apps for a range of utility services like hiring a toto, linking Aadhaar with bank account and paying property tax.

Notably, the state's capital Kolkata is one of the fastest growing markets for delivery apps like Swiggy, Zomato and UberEats, who are betting big on the city’s robust appetite for ordering in. According to a survey conducted by Zomato in 2016, with an average order size of Rs 690, Kolkata topped the list for biggest online food orders. New Delhi came second with Rs 640.

Moreover, a large portion of startups in Kolkata raising funds are too from food sector.

Via - Times of India

W. Bengal To Launch Series of Voice-Activated Apps for Unorganized Sector like Rickshaw, Toto and Phuchka Sellers

In a recently held Digital Success Summit 2018 in Kolkata, West Bengal, the state IT secretary Debasish Sen disclosed that the state government is working on an app-based technology, which will have voice-activated and artificial intelligence (AI) related commands, for unorganised sectors including rickshaw pullers, Puchka sellers, or Toto (a new concept of e-rickshaw in the state).

Debasish Sen however also said that these app-based services can be availed only in case a person has a smartphone. "if you need the service of a toto, a rickshaw or a phuchka seller at your doorstep, you cannot contact them like in case of the app cabs or the food delivery apps," he said.

"We are trying to find out means by which voice-activated artificial intelligence (AI)-related commands and devices will enable the rickshaw puller, a toto driver or the phuchka seller understand your command language," said Sen in the event touted as eastern India's first & foremost holistic Digital Summit.

Late last month, the state IT & Electronics department minister Bratya Basu had too announced that West Bengal will get a series of apps for a range of utility services like hiring a toto, linking Aadhaar with bank account and paying property tax.

Notably, the state's capital Kolkata is one of the fastest growing markets for delivery apps like Swiggy, Zomato and UberEats, who are betting big on the city’s robust appetite for ordering in. According to a survey conducted by Zomato in 2016, with an average order size of Rs 690, Kolkata topped the list for biggest online food orders. New Delhi came second with Rs 640.

Moreover, a large portion of startups in Kolkata raising funds are too from food sector.

Via - Times of India

Fresh Graduates in Kolkata To Get "Rent-Free" Space for Innovative Ideas

Students and fresh graduates will be given “rent-free space” for churning out big ideas at the proposed Centre of Innovation in Kolkata, West Bengal IT Secretary Debashis Sen said today.

The state IT and Electronics Department has prepared a blueprint that would soon be placed before the Cabinet for approval, Sen said at the conference on ‘Innovation 2017: Next Big Ideas’, oragnised by the CII.

The innovation centre, at the IT Park being built at Bantala, Kolkata, is expected to be operational in the fiscal year 2018-19, Sen said.

A team of experts, headed by the director of IIT-Kharagpur Partha Pratim Chakraborty, would oversee the screening process of the new innovators.

Interested graduates would have to submit a short project report, merit and quality of which would determine selection.

“The state government’s vision is to improve the living standard of the common masses. The IT and Electronics Department will evaluate the performance of a student innovator every six months and decide whether he/she can continue,” he said.

It will also consider offering scholarships to bright students, Sen said, adding, the upcoming centre would involve top academics, scientists, industry members as mentors.

Via - PTI