DataQuest Magazine - April 2024

In this issue

24 WOMEN IT MAVERICKS OF 2024
THE DATAQUEST ICT AWARDS:
DISRUPT INNOVATE LEAD
Unveiling Strategies, Trends, and the Leaders Defining the Industry
There is a price to be paid to be the first p 24
Advancing Smelting Technologies: From traditional smelting to cutting edge integration p 46
Hey car, activate autopilot mode! Explore the future of driving p 50
Can EdTech Bridge the Gap with AI-Driven skilling? P 54

24 WOMEN IT MAVERICKS OF 2024

Four decades strong, Dataquest turns 42 in 24! To celebrate this milestone, Dataquest Magazine shines a spotlight on the 24 remarkable women decision-makers who are shaping India's enterprise tech landscape. These CIOs, CTOs, CISOS, and CDOS are more than just leaders - they're architects of innovation, pushing boundaries and championing diversity in the tech industry. Join us as we celebrate their achievements and the profound impact they have on India's digital future.

10+ mins

There is a price to be paid to be the first.

Srikanth Velamakanni, Co-founder and Group CEO, Fractal Analytics, and winner of the Dataquest Path-breaker of the Year award for 2024, looks back and analyses the dots that led the company from data to AI, from analysis to predictions and from plain AI to Gen AI. Excerpts from a chat with Editor Sunil Rajguru.

4 mins

Rajeev Chandrashekhar, Raman Roy, Dr. BVR Mohan Reddy, and Srikanth Velamakanni emerge as winners at the 31st Dataquest ICT Awards

Rajeev Chandrashekhar, Raman Roy, Dr. BVR Mohan Reddy, and Srikanth Velamakanni, Co-founder, Fractal Analytics have been honored at the 31st Dataquest ICT Awards, an event recognizing excellence and innovation within India's Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. Established in 1982, Dataquest stands as a pioneering IT industry magazine, playing a pivotal role in fostering growth and progress within the ICT industry.

1 min

“We Did It!”: Dataquest ICT Jury Awards Showcase Winners’ Speeches Highlighting Indian Pioneering Spirit

At the Dataquest ICT Jury Awards, Srikanth Velamakanni, Co-founder of Fractal Analytics, Dr. BVR Mohan Reddy, Founder of Cyient, and Raman Roy, CMD of Quatrro BPO Solutions, each expressed their gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon them.

2 mins

India's Path to Superpower Status by 2047

In the wake of the Dataquest Digital Leadership Conclave, India 2047, a special discussion moderated by Pradeep Gupta, Chairman of the CyberMedia Group, illuminated the trajectory of India's tech journey towards global eminence. Delving into crucial facets of growth, challenges, and strategic imperatives, the panelists, comprising eminent figures from the industry, outlined a comprehensive roadmap towards realizing India's potential as a tech superpower by 2047.

3 mins

Unleashing India’s Tech Potential: Make in India Apps for Global Impact

The opening fireside chat of the Dataquest Digital Leadership Conclave, held as part of the prestigious ICT Awards, set the stage for a compelling discussion on \"Make in India Apps for the World.\" This thematic session underscored India's burgeoning role in the global tech landscape, spotlighting how Indian startups are spearheading innovation to address global challenges. In this article, we delve into the transformative journey of India's tech ecosystem and explore how entrepreneurs are leveraging their expertise to create impactful solutions on a global scale.

2 mins

Advancing Smelting Technologies: From traditional smelting to cutting-edge integration

With a wealth of experience and expertise, C Chandru, the CEO of Smelters at Hindustan Zinc Limited, has been instrumental in steering Hindustan Zinc towards technological advancements and operational excellence. In this exclusive interview, we discuss the innovative approaches adopted by Hindustan Zinc, exploring its evolution from traditional smelting methods to the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as AI, drones, and IoT. Join us as we uncover the insights and strategies driving Hindustan Zinc's success in the ever-evolving landscape of smelting technologies. Excerpts

5 mins

Hey car, activate autopilot mode! Explore the future of driving

The roar of the engine is fading, replaced by the hum of innovation. The automotive industry is undergoing a revolution, powered by cutting-edge technology. Buckle up as we shift into high gear and explore how advancements in electrification, connectivity, and artificial intelligence are reshaping the way cars are built and driven. We'll dive into the latest tech trends and hear from Vinod Khode, Group Chief IT Officer, Varroc, a leading auto parts manufacturer, about how they're using these advancements to stay ahead of the curve. In conversation with Minu Sirsalewala, Executive Editor, Dataquest.

7 mins

Can EdTech Bridge the Gap with Al-Driven Skilling?

In India, with over 1.4 billion people, traditional education struggles to meet the needs of a growing population. Sixty-five percent of the populace is under 35, yet lacks the skills crucial for a modern economy. McKinsey estimates that 450 million workers need upskilling by 2030 to match industry demands. Urgent innovation is required to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity for India's future prosperity.

10+ mins

Technology for Artists- the Canvas or the Portrait?

Arup J Paul, a multidisciplinary visual artist and creative technologist (with 3 patents approved by USPTO, EPO, and SIPO) is busy with a very prolific palette these days. He has been building custom Generative AI data model for visual art. Recently he talked to Editor Sunil Rajguru from his wonder-filled studio in Germany- where he zoomed in on some technology pixels that are emerging in the milieu of an artist. He believes- and persuades- that the artist will stay in the driving seat - as technology's tint gets stronger ahead. Provided- artists do not get lazy or skip the brass-tacks. Let's look at some finer strokes of this future-sketch.

4 mins

Al Dating Bots: How Grey! How Shady!

Love may or may not be blind, but it looks like it needs to be blind, deaf and dumb - if it's happening in the world of AI. In a very intriguing, fascinating, and no-corners-left study conducted by Mozilla Foundation's team, a lot of jaw-droppers about romancing with AI surfaced. Like-90% of these apps and bots failed to meet some Minimum-Security Standards.

4 mins

AI PCs: This Backpack Just Ate A Four-Stroke V6!

There's a limit to which a CPU-based PC can be stretched for AI workloads. But add some GPU/NPU pistons and you could be looking at something that's still small but now ready with all AI-chops. Is the formula for PCs moving towards AI? Will it run?

10 mins

Read all stories from DataQuest

DataQuest Magazine Description:

DataQuest Magazine is India's leading technology media publication, providing in-depth analysis of market trends and fast-changing technologies. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve in the Indian IT industry.

Each issue of DataQuest Magazine is packed with essential information for IT professionals, including:

* In-depth analysis of the Indian IT market: DataQuest Magazine's team of experienced journalists provides expert analysis of the key factors driving the Indian IT market, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing Indian IT companies.
* Profiles of successful Indian IT companies and entrepreneurs: DataQuest Magazine profiles the most successful Indian IT companies and entrepreneurs, sharing their stories and insights with readers.
* Interviews with IT leaders and experts: DataQuest Magazine features exclusive interviews with leading IT leaders and experts, providing readers with a first-hand look at the minds of the people who are shaping the Indian IT industry.
* Articles on the latest IT trends and technologies: DataQuest Magazine covers the latest IT trends and technologies, helping readers stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions.
* Advice on how to start and run a successful IT business: DataQuest Magazine provides valuable advice on how to start and run a successful IT business, from developing a business plan to managing finances to marketing and sales.

Whether you're a seasoned IT professional or just starting out, DataQuest Magazine has something for you. Subscribe today!