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“AI-powered End-to-End Thermal Video Technology Solutions can Protect Businesses” Ashish Dhakan FOCUS (Forum of Critical Utility Services), recently hosted its 3rd knowledge series webinar with the theme ‘Best Practices in Managing New Normal’ – CCTV & movement control by adopting latest technologies (artificial intelligence & machine learning). In his opening remark V. Suresh, President, Forum of Critical Utility services, said, “The pandemic has permanently changed the nature and landscape of work, and both employees and employers are already adjusting to this new reality. Technology plays a central role in this new normal, which will change the definition of the workplace. Deployment of new solutions will provide additional safety for those who are working in healthcare, hospitality industry, government, educational institute, retail, project management, manufacturing, worship places. This event is aimed to provide you knowledge on practical implementation of solutions.” In his keynote address as a Chief Guest, Ashish P. Dhakan, MD & CEO, Prama Hikvision India and Chairman – Security at FOCUS, briefly gave an overview of the ongoing efforts to minimize the pandemic risks through AI enabled thermal technology and solutions. He said, “In these challenging times FOCUS is doing lots of good works, which is an incredible thing. Being proactive and creating awareness about security technology is an empowering vision for all the stakeholders’ of critical utilities. The need of thermal screening technology in the Security and surveillance industry under the present circumstances is felt more than ever.” He further added, “The challenge today is how to ensure public safety as efficiently as possible, without affecting the business interests. As we adjust to a new way of life, businesses must embrace innovative ways to optimize the density and flow of people through their premises, to protect workers, customers and visitors, while also protecting their businesses. The AI-powered end-to-end video technology solutions can support businesses of all sizes in this endeavour.” After the keynote address, Vinay Mishra, Senior Vice President, Prama Hikvision India Pvt. Ltd. gave his presentation on AI-powered end-to-end thermal video technology solutions related to temperature screening, mask detection, flow control and social distancing solutions. He elaborated on the key features of the technology and the advantages it offers in various application scenarios like hospitality, healthcare, retail, banking, education and transportation verticals. He further added, “For even greater reassurance, businesses can add in thermal and mask-detection camera technology, to help ensure people are safe to enter a location in the first place. AI-powered cameras can intelligently identify whether someone is wearing a mask, while can also effectively checking their skin-surface temperatures. Equipped with this information, staff can take appropriate action to reduce the risk of viral spread.” As a co-presenter in the FOCUS webinar, Ashish Gujarathi, AVP, Non CCTV products (access control, intrusion alarm, VDP and perimeter security) explained the key functions of thermal technology, contactless facial recognition terminals with temperature screening and mask wearing alerts, walkthrough metal detector door with temperature screening, flow control, people counting and social distancing solutions. He further elaborated on key aspects of thermal technology and systems that are helping to protect people and businesses. He explained, “Intelligent video cameras such as those within flow control solution use people-counting technology coupled with dynamic digital signage to display how many people are entering and leaving a building or indoor area. The cameras feature highly accurate 3D binocular vision and deep learning algorithms to accurately count the number of people flowing through, even in the busiest sites with multiple entrances and exits,” At the webinar, the Prama Hikvision representatives had a Q&A session with the participants and answered the queries. The webinar was moderated by K.P. Dominic, Chairman of Marketing & Events, FOCUS. A.L. Narasimhan, General Secretary, FOCUS, thanked all the participants, presenters and the chief guest for making the 3rd Knowledge Series webinar a resounding success. The webinar had the convergence of end-users, industry leaders, academic experts, system integrators and partners, which provided a unique opportunity for sharing the latest technology knowledge, experience, and ideas to provide a solution in the times of pandemic.  

Anil Puri CMD, APS group A thought leader and an action catalyzer rolled into one – Anil Puri is a rare combination of a visionary, and one who has mastered the art of strategic and tactical thinking to the core. He has been using this combination to seed new ideas and to lead them to their implementation on-ground. This has been a consistent feature of his career. He has rich experience of approximately 35 years in corporate in diverse domains & from functional managerial level to apex as chairman of a corporate group. Training has been very close to his heart and has always occupied center stage in planning the businesses. He has been instrumental in building a team of highly qualified training professionals on Pan India basis to develop security protocols and deliver client and site specific training to enable the security personnel at premises of esteemed clientele. He has established ‘APS Centre of Excellence’ a training institution, a state-of-the-art training facility accredited with MEPSC and approved by PSARA Controlling Authority which has earned a place for itself in skilling of security personnel in PSI domain. He has also pioneered the virtual training of security personnel within the APS Group. Concept of Mobile Training Van was also his brain child which has risen in popularity chart. Here he has chosen to share his thoughts on the impact of Covid pandemic and future of the virtual training in PSI domain. INTRODUCTION It’s been unprecedented time across the globe. The Covid-19 pandemic has led to many significant changes in the way we live, learn and work. The novel Coronavirus or Covid-19 has changed how millions around the globe are educated and skilled. The spread and the fear of infection of Coronavirus has shut down almost all training centers and educational institutions. In the wake of an unprecedented lockdown period, the skilling ecosystem/ educational system is moving online as far as possible, turning classrooms into online spaces and teachers into virtual educators. Various authorities in their respective domains and realms, at the MNC corporate level/ at the higher educational institutions, and/ or at the school level, have been proposing the setting up of virtual classrooms for e-learning. The institutions for the past one year have geared up in full stream to conduct remote learning. The new paradigm shift in approaches to learning have not only narrowed down the equality gaps but also introduced innovative solutions for skilling in the sector. Many training academies, schools and universities throughout the country are attempting to provide some form of virtual learning with the help of virtual teachers and virtual platforms available. The government is formulating policies to foster digital skilling. There is a concerted effort to enhance the digital infrastructure to help facilitate the use of innovative educational tools. In the near future, digital skilling will no longer remain a novelty but an essential mode of imparting education. With digital transformation, parallel to the education sector, skilling system in PSI is bound to readjust itself by redefining how we learn and what we learn. Digital technology is also helping overcome language barriers – for learning material to be made available in multiple regional languages is a more feasible option when effected digitally. Innovative e-learning platforms have been gaining huge popularity. Students can attend classes and participate in discussion forums online, at their convenience, from their offices, homes and so on. Over the past few months, millions of students and teachers have adopted online education and skills. This includes the vocational education apparatus like technical training institutes focused on practical and shop-floor training, which have also transitioned to online delivery. TRADITIONAL MODE OF TRAINING IN PSI Traditionally, training in PSI domain has been predominantly run on ILT (instructor led training) pattern – face to face basic training conducted at PSA owned training centers as mandated by PSAR 2005. Post basic training – OJT and on site training – are conducted at client’s premises through ILT by trainer. Bulk of the time, this takes the shape of instructor mainly refreshing the skill sets acquired during the basic training with special emphasis on practical handling of security and safety equipment, access control, visitor management, material management, crowd control, handling of unruly customers, handling of emergencies, prevention of theft & pilferage, POSH and fire safety training. At most of the times this training is imparted outdoors at the space earmarked by the client. Client specific training is also conducted using same modus operandi. Most of the MNCs and organizations from IT & ITES domain have dedicated training rooms but balance of 99% employers premises are devoid of any dedicated indoor training rooms/ areas. Most of the times, the dedicated training rooms are occupied for conduct of ‘in house training programs’ as part of the corporate trainings which are being regularly run for the regular employees on their pay roll. These in house corporate training programs are not security related but generally have linkage to adoption of new technology, new processes, awareness drives about new business initiatives in specific domains and up gradation of skill sets required to be acquired by the employees to take it forward. Security personnel are always the last priority. The open space in the premises within the tight time window of availability of few minutes of change of deployment shifts of security personnel thrice in a 24 cycle. Duration of training is limited to 30 to 40 minutes and limited to the scope illustrated above. Indoor training is limited to PPT and training videos on standalone mode but no interface with client network because of cyber security protocol. Selected few have started using the mobile training vans to fill in the void of the dedicated training room at client premises. However, this has proved to be an effective tool of delivery of training but did not offset the requirement of the virtual training necessitated by Covid pandemic. IMPACT OF COVID PANDEMIC When Covid-19 struck in early 2020, everything changed dramatically. Forced into lockdown mode…

Anil Puri CMD, APS group A thought leader and an action catalyzer rolled into one – Anil Puri is a rare combination of a visionary, and one who has mastered the art of strategic and tactical thinking to the core. He has been using this combination to seed new ideas and to lead them to their implementation onground. This has been a consistent feature of his career. He has rich experience of approximately 35 years in corporate in diverse domains & from functional managerial level to apex as chairman of a corporate group. His acumen for handling crisis management has prompted him to share his exclusive and niche experiences in past through the series of articles. Here he will be discussing the Counter Terrorism. The topic in specific here is – the ‘Protect Duty.’ The proposed legal framework currently under process of consultation before implementation in UK. His analysis goes on to decipher the implications for stakeholders in UK & its global ramifications with particular reference to the cues Indian PSI can pick from ‘Protect Duty.’ Introduction The terrorist threat is multifaceted, diverse, and continually evolving prominently with global footprints. Most prominent amongst these the tragic events of 9/11 and 26/11 which forced the nations to consider the threat of terrorism seriously. Stringent procedures were evolved and enforced yet the perpetrators of terrorism find new ways & newer technologies to beat the security system. The new millennial fundamentalists have beaten all the traditional security systems hollow. The incidents of the terrorism have risen exponentially world over. They have used internet for creation of fake IDs, digital banking for financing, hacking of data & telecom devices for communication and GPS to navigate into unchartered territories to their optimum advantage. The police, private security services, counter terrorist forces and public at large do all they can to combat this threat but the acts of terrorism continue unabated. Since March 2017 UK police and security services have foiled 27 plots, including eight motivated by Right Wing ideologies. Since terrorists enjoy the freedom of selection of target & time of strike coupled with the most decisive factor – the element of surprise – it will never be possible to stop every terrorist attack despite best planning, preparation and response matrix. The terrorist attacks in UK, particularly since 2017, have resulted in colossal loss of lives and casualties amongst common people going about their everyday routine business, often in open, public places; and have changed the lives of many people. What is non-debatable is that the first duty of any Government is to protect the public. The Government in UK has come forward to improve the safety and security of public venues, as outlined in the 2019 General Election Manifesto of the Conservative Party. The proposals are based around the set of safety and security protocols known as ‘Martyn’s Law,’ developed as a result of the Manchester area attack in 2017. The proposals have been open to consultation for 18 weeks till 25 July 2021. This consultation considered how all stakeholders can work together to develop proportionate security measures to improve public security. It also considers how those responsible for publicly accessible locations are ready and be prepared to take appropriate action, if terrorist attacks were to happen. UN Guiding Principle 1 I t will be of relevance to quote that the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) unanimously adopted the UN Guiding Principles in 2011. The first pillar of the UN Guiding Principles on Human Rights (hereinafter UN Guiding Principles) underscores that the duty to protect human rights lies with the state. Under international law, states are obligated to respect, protect and fulfill human rights. In practice; “States must protect against human rights abuse within their territory and/ or jurisdiction by third parties, including business enterprises. This requires taking appropriate steps to prevent, investigate, punish and redress such abuse through effective policies, legislation, regulations and adjudication.” Protect Duty – Definition and Status It is the name given to the UK Govt’s legal initiative to improve protective security and safety at public spaces and events under which the Govt intends to set out a legal framework for ‘publicly accessible locations’ to ensure that they are prepared for and protected against terrorist attacks. The current status is that the proposed legal framework is under consultation till end July 2021. Government is working with all stakeholders including public, private, outside organizations and counter-terror police in order to seek views on exactly: Who the Protect Duty should apply to? What will be required of stakeholders? How compliance should work? How is a ‘publically accessible location’ defined? Publicly accessible locations are defined as – ‘any place to which the public has access, on payment or otherwise, as of right or by virtue of express or implied permission’ and they include – retail stores, shopping centres and markets, transport hubs, commercial ports, schools and universities, medical centres and hospitals, hotels, pubs, clubs and casinos, sports stadium, music venues, festivals and visitor & tourist attractions, places of worship, Government offices, including town halls and job centres, high streets, public squares, parks and beaches. Publicly accessible locations would be split into sectors including health, education, retail, leisure, faiths zones and individual sites. Private venues such as places of employment or other locations where there is no public access are not intended to fall within the scope of the Protect Duty. What Protect Duty law will require from owners of public and private places? This new law would require venue operators to consider the risk of a terrorist attack and take proportionate and reasonable measures to prepare for and protect the public from such a terrorist attack. In essence there are five elements to it: To engage with freely available counter-terrorism advice and training. To conduct vulnerability assessments of their operating places and spaces. To mitigate the risks created by the vulnerabilities. To have a counter terrorism action plan. To plan for the threat of terrorism including enforcement of stringent physical security…

CrowdStrike, a global player in cloud-delivered endpoint and workload protection, recently announced its India Partner of the Year Awards for 2020. The awards recognise channel partners that meet or exceed assigned revenue targets and create successful customer relationships through the delivery of CrowdStrike-based solutions for the calendar year 2020. Value Point Systems, headquartered in Bengaluru won the India Partner of the Year Award for delivering the most net new revenue to CrowdStrike in 2020, and also secured the Best Corporate Partner Award. ACPL Systems took home the Best Enterprise Partner of the Year for 2020 for its successes in working in a number of key strategic verticals, Inflow Technologies scooped Best Small Medium Business (SMB) Partner, and Foresight Software Solutions was awarded Rising Star for 2020. Ryan Kern, Head of Sales at South Asian Technologies has been inducted into the CrowdStrike Hall of Fame as a Friend of CrowdStrike. Additionally, Narsimman V at Foresight Software Solutions, was recognised as CrowdStrike’s Best Partner Representative of the Year while Rohit Tanvar from ACPL Systems was named Best Partner Sales Executive for 2020. Girish Gargeshwari, Channel Director, Asia at CrowdStrike said, “We are pleased to announce the award winners across each category and recognise the efforts of our Indian partners during a year full of uncertainties. Last year’s many challenges were ably dealt with thanks to the combined effort and commitment shown by our partners and our team. It is a privilege to work with such partners who have become a key component in sustaining relationships with our customers. We are confident that we will continue to engage with our partners in a mutually beneficial way and grow together for many years to come.” Ashok Prabhu, Chief Executive Sales, Value Point Systems on winning the India Partner of the Year Award said, “We were the first channel partner for CrowdStrike in the region and they have completely changed the way we view the cybersecurity sector. CrowdStrike has helped us deliver a truly unique cloud-native security solution which has been highly appreciated by our customers. Winning the Partner of the Year Award is a testament to our combined efforts in the region. Our partnership has gone beyond just reselling; CrowdStrike has helped us build strong services and incident response teams that shows CrowdStrike’s commitment to the growth journey of their partners.” CrowdStrike works with partners through the CrowdStrike Elevate Program providing the training, support and services which partners need to achieve outstanding results in their particular markets and areas of specialisation. “In our journey in India so far, we have been fortunate to work with amazing partners who have shown resilience and sustained commitment to supporting our endeavour to serve our customers. We will continue to grow our strategic partnerships in the region and support more Indian enterprises with their security requirements,” added Girish Gargeshwari.  

Kartik Vig, Director, Security Consulting, Netrika It’s a competitive world, and not everyone plays by the book. Sadly, gathering competitive intelligence is one of the ways being used to not only stay abreast of competition, but may be even try beating the competition to the finishing line. It is an ever-increasing threat in today’s data-driven world, and it ranges from criminals trying to obtain business critical information for commercial or technical gains, to sophisticated state-sponsored organisations looking for political and military gains. While it is not always possible to know every threat present around us, a robust security policy encompassing physical security, cybersecurity, and protection from electronic surveillance is necessary to ensure that your secrets remain secret. Devices being used by perpetrators for surveillance and gathering intelligence are increasingly becoming more sophisticated, small and inexpensive, which can compromise not only your sensitive information, your private conversations, your plans as well as secrets but also the entire security of your building. Critical and sensitive information whether of business or personal nature, can be misused by any detractor and may lead to financial loss and/ or loss of reputation. With our unique approach and state of the art TSCM equipment, we offer a comprehensive TSCM solution, which could greatly improve the security of your organisation. TSCM helps ensure safeguarding of critical/ sensitive information in a professional and comprehensive manner. What is Technical Surveillance Counter Measure? Technical Surveillance Counter Measure (TCSM) is a term that was coined by the United States government, that describes the action of sweeping for devices that may be spying on you. TSCM was initially aimed at sanitising rooms for listening devices by detection of emission of radio waves. The process of TCSM has evolved to the point where non – radio emissions can also be detected. It encompasses securing communications technology, thoroughly inspecting and fortifying information technology and ensuring a heightened protocol of physical security. With a proper TSCM sweep, one can counter the risk of corporate spying, ensure confidentiality and safeguard inside information – losing which could impact your firm. The goal of a TSCM sweep is to identify existing security gaps and potential weaknesses in technical and communications security and to recommend corrective actions to neutralize the identified risks. Mentioned below are some of the most used surveillance tools, that maybe used by perpetrators trying to steal your information: Mini audio/ video cameras and recorders, as in everyday use items. Radio microphones, IP and wireless microphones and cameras. Wired microphones or cameras. Devices intercepting the electromagnetic radiation. Eavesdropping software monitoring GSM phones, computers, laptops and tablets. Microphones transmitting information through electrical grid, internet cables. Technologies used in Technical Surveillance Counter Measure and Caution I n today’s technologically vibrant world, there are a number of TSCM technologies available in the market, from radio signal analysers to spectrum analysers, non-linear junction detectors to IR detectors, camera detectors etc. However, one needs to be cautious as use of inexpensive and local devices for conduct of TSCM may lead to a false sense of security and loss of all security efforts envisioned for securing critical information. It is therefore highly recommended to adopt a comprehensive approach using state-of the art technology to counter the threat of illicit surveillance. To Conclude Deploying TSCM measures will help safeguard your edge over your competition, your trade secrets and your conversations from illicit surveillance/ intelligence gathering. It is also one of the best ways of mitigating such risks. Scheduling regular TSCM sweeps can safeguard your trade secrets as well as ensure peace of mind.  

Hikvision has announced the launch of newly updated HikCentral Professional 2.0 security software (HCP 2.0), which blends feeds from multiple systems onto a single platform. HCP 2.0 can be configured to link video security devices, alarm and access control systems, and more, including third-party systems through the OpenAPI – for easy centralized management of a variety of security and business applications. Frank Zhang, President of Hikvision’s International Product and Solution Center, said, “This is an important release for us, and a significant leap forward in our security management software offerings. HikCentral Professional 2.0 will help our customers manage a variety of activities seamlessly on one platform. We’re excited to see the value it delivers.” Nine key applications for numerous business needs HikCentral Professional 2.0 integrates multiple business and security systems with nine key applications, making it valuable to a wide variety of common security and business scenarios seen in buildings, factories, stores, apartments, and the like. Among them, video cameras and security alarms are integrated into the platform to deliver fluid live viewing and timely alarm notifications. Furthermore, access control can be included to assign a variety of access permissions using multiple methods including facial recognition, ID cards, fingerprints, QR codes, and more. HCP 2.0 also allows various personnel such as HR managers to set flexible attendance rules including schedules for shift work while delivering full reporting facilities. Additionally, site managers can also employ vehicle management and visitor management applications to streamline entrance management as well as on-site parking. Users can further rely on HCP 2.0 with intelligent analysis and reporting – an application that collects data and transforms it into easy-to-understand reports and dashboards. This includes flow status, people density and more. For systems management teams, HCP 2.0’s system maintenance application visualizes alarm and device notifications, as well as the full network and device topology for rapid, targeted action in unusual events. Last but not least, HCP 2.0 lets users deploy digital signage systems to display advertisements and announcements. The software comes with eight pre-installed templates for users to present content optimally. This can be crowd numbers and temperature status in a supermarket scenario, for example. Creating truly unified systems with enhanced security and greater operational efficiency With HCP 2.0, users will flexibly unite applications and build a tailored system to match their security and business needs. The unified approach not only creates greater situational awareness of their security environment, it also reduces real day-to-day management resources previously required by disparate systems. For example, users can integrate visitor management with vehicle management to enhance daily operational efficiency for building facilities. Facility managers can register visitor information into the HCP 2.0 system, and – by linking to an ANPR system – can set visitors to be automatically permitted into on-site parking. Similarly, the system can also pre-authorize visitor access to specific areas of an organization’s premises. Personalized user experience HikCentral Professional 2.0 can be tailored to deliver specific information to assigned users. The system comes with three pre-configured roles – ‘system installation and management,’ ‘security control and management,’ and ‘attendance management.’ In this way, HR staff can customize their feed to show employee attendance status, for example, while management staff can monitor security of the facilities. There is also one custom role, which can be tailored to specific needs. Perhaps most importantly, HikCentral Professional 2.0 features an improved user interface. Users can customize the control panel to suit their viewing preferences, simply dragging and dropping key video and device feeds into the dashboard, adjusting where they sit and how they look. Dynamic and intuitive user interface HCP 2.0 also incorporates multiple visualized dashboards that display key security and business insights generated from various applications, facilitating decision-making processes with more accuracy and efficiency. What’s more, users apply 3D E-maps that vividly demonstrate device monitoring statuses in different locations, and manage instant alerts interactively by clicking and watching associated live videos and other integrated system information. Easy setup and maintenance HikCentral Professional 2.0 is easy to deploy and quick to set up for a multitude of projects with single applications. Customers with minimum system requirement of Intel i3-CPU and 8 GB RAM can get up and running with a one-click installation procedure that makes HCP 2.0 setup a breeze. Operations guidance wizards are conspicuously displayed to support users in configuring key applications. In addition, the visualized health monitoring dashboards enable more focused and efficient IT maintenance.  

The first live and in-person B2B expo was inaugurated by Satyendar Jain, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Industries, Home, Public Works Department, Power, Urban Development and Transport, Government of NCT of Delhi. Durga Shanker Mishra, Secretary, MoHUA, sets the tone at the City Leader’s Conclave on Day 2. 500 participating brands, 250 speakers and 50 conference sessions; the expo demonstrated the power of in-person networking. The 28th Convergence India and the 6th Smart cities India expo 2021was recently inaugurated with a cutting-edge exhibition showcase and engaging conference sessions, along with business meetings and knowledge papers at India’s biggest tech and infra expo. Hosted by India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and Exhibitions India Group (EIG), the expo marked the resurgence of live and physical events. The expo supports the Government’s vision of transforming India into a digitally and sustainably empowered economy. Convergence India is at the forefront of India’s digital revolution, while the Smart Cities India expo is a reflection of India’s emerging modernization and development landscape. The combination of these two leading expos, supporting India’s Digital & Smart Cities Missions, delivered an event that accelerated technological innovation, opening with key discourses on the growth of India’s digital economy and enabling entrepreneurship as a driving force for socio-economic development. The expo was inaugurated by Satyendar Jain, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Industries, Home, Public Works Department, Power, Urban Development and Transport, Government of NCT of Delhi, who stressed the importance of events such as the Convergence India expo and the Smart Cities India expo, in creating a digital and smart India.     Speaking at the opening session on ‘Building Cities for People’ at the Smart Cities Conclave, he said, “The idea of smart cities should also incorporate the idea of sustainability, for without it, no city can be smart. In building and developing smart cities, not only do we need to think about people but also work towards involving them in the process of planning and development. Water is going to be one of the biggest problems going forward, and we must think about solutions. Also, integrating new-age technologies such as AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) in the making of smart cities is the need of the hour. ”   A key highlight of the event was a stellar line-up of senior government representatives, leaders from large corporates and young tech start-ups, along with a mix of entrepreneurs, accelerators, incubators and academia, who addressed packed rooms and responded to queries from an inquisitive audience. Some distinguished and eminent industry experts included Kunal Kumar, IAS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs; Shobhit Agrawal, Partner KPMG India; P D Vaghela, IAS, Chairman, TRAI; Puneet Narang, Partner, Urban Transformation and Major Projects Advisory, IGH, KPMG in India; Dr. Renu Khosla, Director, CURE; Satish Jamadagni, Vice-Chair, TSDI; Dr. S K Gupta, Secretary, TRAI; Amit Kumar Ghosh, IAS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways; Puneet Anand, AVP-Corporate Affairs Unit, Hyundai Motor, India, and many more, who graced the conference sessions to share their vision and ideologies. After a successful day of in-person networking on day one, Day 2 marked the launch of the City Leader’s Conclave, with the inaugural session on ‘Building Better Cities.’ The Guest of Honour, Durga Shanker Mishra, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Govt. of India, paid a tribute to the Late Shri Prem Behl, Chairman & Managing Director, Exhibitions India Group, and expressed appreciation for being part of the 6th Smart Cities India. He referred to the event as the key platform for all technocrats, stakeholders, and city leaders to come forward and learn from each other and collaborate on the best practices they can highlight to build better cities. Speaking on ‘Building Better Cities’ at the City Leader’s Conclave, he said, “The first learning is that cities are for people, for its citizens, and not just for corporations and bureaucrats. Citizens have demonstrated that they can come together to think, aspire, benchmark, and create targets for what their city needs to do and what will be best for citizens. The main learning from smart cities is to identify how to get more from less and how to make cities more inclusive.” He further said, “There is no definition or specific explanation of smart cities. A smart city is a city which is able to provide the best services to its citizens, in terms of liveability, and one that can provide a conducive liveable environment, wherein citizens can realize their highest potential.” The occasion was also marked by the launch of a Knowledge Paper by KPMG in India, titled – “Road to sustainable smart cities – Challenges, opportunities and emerging trends.” This paper hopes to serve as a set of insights into the longer term nature of urbanization in India to help the various stakeholders introspect and prepare for the next generation of inclusive urban development programmes in India. It has attempted to evaluate the smart city programme across key aspects, ranging from simplified governance to complex programme implementation. Speaking on the occasion, Elias George, Partner and Head – Infrastructure, Government and Healthcare (IGH), KPMG in India, said, “ The knowledge paper findings reveal that while considerable headway has been made in attaining the objectives of the programme, further interventions are required at the regulatory, policy & programme management and design levels. It is hoped that this document will be of practical use for the key actors involved in the smart cities programme, to critically evaluate its status across these domains, and to undertake further reforms and corrections as may be warranted.” The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in widespread turbulence across the world. As part of an emergency response to the pandemic, the Indian government leveraged the pioneering Smart Cities Mission (SCM) to enable cities to effectively leverage technology in improving citizen services and the overall quality of life. To deliberate on these challenges and the future roadmap of smart cities and learnings from them in India, various smart city…

Halma, the FTSE 100 global group of life-saving technology companies, recently announced the appointment of Dharmash Mistry as an independent non-executive Director, effective 1 April 2021. Dharmash will also be a member of Halma’s audit, remuneration and nomination committees. Dharmash brings a wealth of experience as a venture capitalist, entrepreneur and non-executive director. He has extensive experience spanning management of digital assets, digital marketing, evaluating digital business models and driving digital transformation. Dharmash’s venture capital roles have seen him leading investments in disruptive technology companies and early stage ventures. His earlier executive career included roles with Procter & Gamble, Boston Consulting Group and Emap plc. Subsequently, he has been a partner at venture capital firms Balderton and Lakestar. Dharmash has also had a diverse portfolio career acting as a non-executive director at Dixons Retail plc, Hargreaves Lansdown plc and, currently, non-executive director at the BBC, British Business Bank and is Chair of blow LTD. Paul Walker, Chair, commented, “I am delighted that Dharmash has agreed to join the Halma Board. Dharmash brings in-depth knowledge and experience of digitalisation and developing new business models which will undoubtedly be of great value to Halma.” There are no further details to be disclosed for Dharmash Mistry under Listing Rule 9.6.13R.  

Prama Hikvision has recently introduced its wide range AcuSense cameras empowered by the deep learning algorithm for various critical application scenarios. AcuSense technology enables security personnel to focus on human and vehicle events rather than insignificant objects, so they can act more efficiently, which helps save time and costs, while end-users can get full control of their security system anytime, from anywhere. Hikvision AcuSense products were introduced with the idea of making intelligent alarms and services available to small businesses and residential customers for the first time. A sense of safety is one of the most basic human needs, personal and property safety are integrated into that sentiment as well. And this is exactly why people install security systems in their homes and businesses. Compared to conventional sensor-based alarm systems, a surveillance system that utilizes cameras has several advantages – the ability to watch events in real-time, obtaining key data around those events, and providing solid and accurate evidence for law enforcement. By adding a touch of intelligence to cameras and video recorders, AcuSense technology makes these products a perfect choice for an accessible and intelligent security system. The magic behind it all – Deep learning algorithm As its name implies, Hikvision AcuSense technology provides accurate sensing in security hardware. Empowered by deep learning algorithms, AcuSense technology distinguishes people and vehicles from other moving objects. Focus on the right events – Human and vehicle intrusion The most common concerns in perimeter protection are trespassing and vehicle break-ins. AcuSense technology helps focus on human and vehicle events in two ways – the device will only trigger an alarm when the preset intrusion type (human or vehicle) takes place, and videos related to alarm events are sorted into human and vehicle categories for easier footage searches. Accurate alarms for humans and vehicles A video security camera would usually ‘see’ many events, ranging from people crossing a perimeter to animals that accidentally enter. What happens when a person wants to level-up his protection and get a notification when a perimeter-crossing event takes place? For most security events, he will search for video clips that captured human or vehicle activities. With AcuSense devices, this gets easier. Video clips are already sorted into the ‘human files’ and ‘vehicle files.’ Just to simply click one of these categories and use time or location data to quickly locate the clip that he wants. Compared to the conventional method which displays all video files at once, AcuSense makes searching more efficient. Users can focus on alarms triggered by humans and vehicles while false alarms triggered by small animals or other irrelevant objects are vastly reduced. Visual and auditory warning On-site response and deterrence methods using visual and customizable auditory warnings to add another layer of protection. Search targets quickly by type Video clips are sorted by human and vehicle categories, and object classification vastly improves search efficiency. Improved alarm accuracy The latest Hikvision AcuSense devices are engineered with an upgraded deep learning algorithm, which analyzes live video streams and labels them as ‘human,’ ‘vehicle,’ or ‘other events.’ Those labeled as human and vehicle will trigger alarms for security staff, while other events such as rain drops, animals, or the movement of foliage, for example, will be drastically disregarded. The result is a striking reduction in false alarms – now with an accuracy approaching 98%. In this way, security personnel can focus on genuine security issues and take action. Additionally, related videos are automatically sorted by categories for easier search. Enhanced motion detection with human/ vehicle classification Customers familiar with motion detection will appreciate the capabilities of AcuSense technology as well. Taking users’ habits into full consideration, Hikvision designed AcuSense products to integrate human and vehicle classifications with motion detection. More specifically, when motion is detected, the system analyzes whether or not it is associated with a human or a vehicle, and whether an alarm should be triggered. So, when users enable the motion detection function, they can enjoy the same level of alarm accuracy afforded by Hikvision’s AcuSense technology. Flashing light and two-way voice conversation When real-time deterrence is needed, Hikvision also offers camera models with a flashing light and auditory warning. As soon as an alarm is triggered, the built-in light flashes. Simultaneously, security personnel can communicate with the person who triggered the alarm to confirm their authorization, thanks to the built-in speaker and microphone in the camera. Of note, the latest AcuSense cameras even support customized audio tracks, which can be pre-recorded to suit various environments. Better performance in low-light environments The latest AcuSense camera lenses are equipped with an aperture reaching up to F1.4. This technology allows more light to enter the lens, for optimized image brightness, and better performance in low-light environments. Larger detection area Compared with previous AcuSense cameras, this new generation extends target classification distances from 10, 15, or 22 meters to 20, 25, or 30 meters, depending on the model. Customers can choose from 2MP, 4MP, or 4K resolutions, as well as a dome, turret and bullet housings to suit their specific installation requirements. Application Scenarios Alarm receiving center/ monitoring center Security monitoring is never an easy task, especially when it is made responsible for watching over multiple locations at the same time. AcuSense products can help ramp up efficiency and improve workflow. For burglar alarm service: Accurate alarm for human intrusion events only. For playback and video search: Quick search for human or vehicle-related video through sorted folders. Villas Whether one chooses to keep an eye on the house himself or hire a professional service provider to look after his home, there are two functions he will surely want to have: Prompt notification via smartphone: Check alarm information and view live video feed. Light and sound intruder deterrence: React to intrusion events with a flashing light and customizable siren. Factories and warehouses Factories and warehouses store high-value raw materials or commodities. Security here is crucial. However, there is usually only limited manpower to perform such tasks. AcuSense devices offer…

ANIL PURI CMD, APS GROUP A thought leader and an action catalyzer rolled into one – Anil Puri is a rare combination of a visionary, and one who has mastered the art of strategic and tactical thinking to the core. He has been using this combination to seed new ideas and to lead them to their implementation onground. This has been a consistent feature of his career. He has rich experience of approximately 35 years in corporate in diverse domains & from functional managerial level to apex as chairman of a corporate group. His acumen for handling crisis management has prompted him to share his exclusive and niche experiences. Here he will be discussing the topic of Disaster Management which has been one of his favorite subjects. In the series of the articles on Disaster Management, the fire incident of Dec 2011 in AMRI Hospital, Kolkatta has been picked up as a classical case to drive home the key and essential issues.   INTRODUCTION Socio-economic variables depict a high concentration of population in the cities in terms of density per house. Kolkata has the highest number of persons per household (11 person/ household) (IRAD Report, 2013) which renders it in most vulnerable situation due to this kind of fire outbreak. Advanced Medicare and Research Institute (AMRI) is a private hospital chain jointly promoted by the R. S. Goenka led Emami Group, the S. K. Todi led Shrachi Group of companies, and State Government of West Bengal in 1996. The hospital chain has its head office and 6 branches in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, and 6 branches in Bangladesh. AMRI Hospital is ISO 9001:2000 certified, and is located in a densely populated area of at Dhakuria in South Kolkata. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS I n the early hours of the morning on December 9, 2011, a massive fire broke out at annex building of AMRI Hospital Dhakuria, Kolkata. The fire was first noticed by local residents at around 2.30 am. Fire Control Room, Kolkata was informed about the incident at 4.10 am which responded immediately and the fire services arrived at the site within 20 min. Though the fire was primarily restricted within the basement of the hospital, but the poisonous smoke was sucked by air conditioning ducts that carried it through the rooms and the corridors of the seven-story centrally air conditioned hospital. Entire hospital building was filled with thick pile of smoke, caused tremendous suffocation for all the indoor patients. Ninety people choked to death, many of them are in their sleep or were not in condition to even escape. Among the list of dead persons, there were nationals from other countries and states within India. There were victims from Bangladesh, Bihar, Tripura and two nurses from Kerala. As reported by the media, local people noticed the fire at hospital building around 2.30 am and tried to enter the hospital building for rescue. The relatives of the patients, who were waiting outside the hospital overnight also tried to help the trapped patients inside the hospital. The security staff of the hospital stopped the entry in mass into the AMRI annex building, and tried to douse the fire with their own available resources. Fire department rushed into action after receiving the dis-tress call at 4.10 am and reached the spot with available sophisticated firefighting equipment. Around 25 fire engines and hydraulic ladders were used for the rescue and dousing of the massive fire and smoke. It was reported by the Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) that none of the smoke alarms got activated even when smoke started billowing out of the basement. It seems that they had been in switched off mode because they would go off at the slightest smoke and disturb the patients. The sprinklers, gas jets and other water re-leasing equipment that are meant to fight fire, were defunct and none of them went off to prevent the fire. Un-official reports are such that the basement was being used as a smokers’ corner, keeping the fire alarms in switch off mode. This was the second fire at AMRI hospital in three years. The fire services department, government of west Bengal had warned AMRI Hospital in September, 2011 about the inappropriate and dangerous use of the hospital basement. It had served a notice to the hospital authorities questioning the fact that instead of parking cars, the hospital was using its basement for storing empty and filled up LPG cylinders, torn mattresses, and wooden boxes and had converted the entire space into a storehouse. With a December 5 deadline, the hospital was allowed three months’ time to comply, but it did not. The enforcement of law is also in question. CAUSES OF FIRE INCIDENT Though the specific cause of fire could not be established, the director of the fire department in his opinion stated that the fire was most likely caused due to an electrical short circuit in the basement car park. The combustible items like empty and filled up LPG cylinders, PVC pipes, rejected mattresses and wooden boxes immediately got the flame. However, the fact is that the fire didn’t spread to the other part or level of the hospital and was confined to the basement only. As the hospital was centrally air-conditioned, the smoke started billowing out of the basement and spread fast to all the floors through the air-conditioning duct. Soon thereafter, the air-conditioners went off because of the power cut and smoke started accumulating into the hospital rooms and corridors. The centrally air-conditioned hospital didn’t have windows and glass façade walls. As a result, smoke could not be ventilated outside the building. A critical component like mechanical ventilation of centrally air-conditioned buildings was missing in the hospital building. The fire brigade later broke open the glass facade to help the gas escape, though same was too late. ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS The basement was full with inflammable articles like paper, cotton, mattress, chemicals which amounted to blatant violation of fire safety practices.  Smoke detector and fire…