Vistara Inaugurates Non-Stop Flights Between Mumbai And Doha From Dec 15, 2023

Vistara, India's finest full-service carrier and a joint venture between the Tata group and Singapore Airlines, inaugurated direct 4x weekly flights between Mumbai and Doha. The inaugural flight, operated on Vistara's A321neo aircraft, commenced from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, at 18:45 Hours (IST) on 15 December 2023 and arrived at Hamad International Airport, Doha, at 20:30 Hours (local time zone).

With a consistent surge in demand for travel between India and the Middle East, Vistara has been focussing on expanding its presence in the region. The airline already offers direct connectivity to five destinations in the region, namely Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Dubai, Jeddah and Muscat.

Mr. Vinod Kannan, Chief Executive Officer, Vistara, said, "Based on the remarkable response to Vistara’s Middle Eastern routes, we are confident that the launch of operations to Doha will further strengthen our footprint in the region. Doha – an essential commercial hub and home to a large Indian diaspora – is Vistara’s 50th destination and the sixth in the middle east. We are excited to bring the Best Airline in India and Southern Asia to Doha with direct connectivity from Mumbai. We firmly believe that Vistara’s widely appreciated product and globally awarded service make for just the right combination to cater to the market requirements and customers’ demand.”

Ms Sujata Suri, Senior Vice President, Finance and Procurement at Hamad International Airport said: “We are pleased to announce our new partnership with Vistara, linking Doha to Mumbai—a strategic collaboration that reinforces Hamad International Airport's commitment to expanding connectivity and offering passengers unparalleled travel experiences. As Doha becomes Vistara's 50th destination, this collaboration signifies a shared commitment to excellence and marks a milestone of its own for Hamad International Airport, underlining our dedication to facilitating seamless and enriching journeys for travellers around the world."

Vistara accepts all eligible customers meeting visa/entry requirements in both countries, as specified by the respective government bodies. Vistara strongly encourages its customers to fully understand these guidelines before making their bookings.

Vistara is India’s highest-rated airline on Skytrax and TripAdvisor, and it has been the winner of several ‘Best Airline’ awards, besides being lauded for world-class cabin cleanliness and upholding high safety standards. The only Indian carrier to feature amongst World’s Top 20 Airlines, Vistara has been named ‘16th Best Airline’ globally while also being recognised as the ‘Best Airline in India and South Asia’ for the third time in a row, ‘Best Airline Staff in India and South Asia’ for the fifth consecutive year, ‘Best Cabin Crew in India and South Asia’ for the third time in a row and ‘Best Business Class Airline in India and South Asia’ for the second time in a row at the coveted World Airline Awards 2023 by Skytrax. Vistara also received the ch-aviation Asia’s Third Youngest Airline Fleet award for the second consecutive year. 

About Vistara (TATA SIA Airlines Limited): TATA SIA Airlines Limited, known by the brand name Vistara, is a 51:49 joint venture between Tata Sons Private Limited and Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA). Vistara brings together Tata's and SIA's legendary hospitality and renowned service excellence to offer India's finest full-service flying experience. Vistara commenced its commercial operations on 9 January 2015 to set new standards in the aviation industry in India, and it today connects destinations across India and abroad. The airline currently has a fleet of 66 aircraft, including 50 Airbus A320neo, 10 Airbus A321, and 6 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and has flown more than 50 million customers since starting operations.

For more information about Vistara, visit www.airvistara.com 

Military Engineering Services, BRO & CE Industry Leaders Collaborate At CII EXCON 2023 To Shape India's Infrastructure Future

At CII EXCON 2023, during the Session on ‘Exploring Opportunities in Defence & Border Roads Projects’ held on Thursday, Border Roads Organization (BRO) shed light on its extensive contributions to infrastructure development and outlined future initiatives.

Lt Gen. Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of the Border Roads Organisation, remarked, "Through engaging with our industry partners, the BRO effectively conveyed its precise requirements for a model bridge, emphasizing the necessity for increased width, two lanes, and enhanced support for larger spans with a higher load classification. In response to these clearly defined needs, the industry has successfully delivered a model of the bridge that aligns with these specifications. The triumph of this collaborative endeavor underscores the indispensable role played by state-of-the-art construction equipment technologies in meeting the evolving requirements of organizations like the BRO. Advanced engineering and construction equipment, characterized by their adaptability and precision, not only facilitated the realization of the organization's specific demands but also significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of the infrastructure development process."

Lt. Gen Arvind Walia, Engineer -In- Chief, Military Engineering Services, Ministry of Defence said, "Joining hands with industry leaders marks a significant milestone in the tech-driven evolution of the construction industry. As we navigate the surge in technological innovations, construction equipment plays a crucial role in reshaping the world we live in. With a focus on defence infrastructure and an allocation of almost 3.3% of our GDP, approximately 125 billion US dollars, we are poised to contribute to the nation's growth and technological prowess. Today, we stand at the forefront of progress, ready to meet the evolving demands of a rapidly growing economy on the path to a 5 trillion GDP."

Mr. Sandeep Singh, Managing Director, Tata Hitachi Construction Machinery Company Pvt Ltd and Mr Anand Sundaresan, Managing Director, Ammann India also spoke at the Session.

At a separate CEO Roundtable 2023 on the theme, ‘Infrastructure  Growth Story – Driving Sustained Demand’, convened prominent industry leaders for an in-depth conversation addressing the challenges and opportunities within India's construction equipment sector. The discussions centered around the crucial role played by the Indian Construction Equipment (CE) industry in the nation's infrastructure development.

The session dwelved into a range of subjects, highlighting sustainable development, a dedication to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, and the obstacles encountered by companies such as Reach International in supplying aerial work platforms for construction sites. Panel participants recognized the importance of private-sector funding to supplement government initiatives in infrastructure advancement. Noteworthy points encompassed the sector's emphasis on digitalization, minimal Non-Performing Assets (NPAs), and the vital collaboration between industry and academia to tackle skill shortages in the operation of construction equipment.

Mr. Vivekanand Vanmeeganathan, President, ICEMA said, “In the context of sustainability, the industry acknowledges the crucial importance of ESG. Commitment to sustainable practices is not only for current operations but also for ensuring a sustainable future for the industry.”

Mr. Jaswinder Singh Bakshi, Chairman – Taskforce on User Industry EXCON 2023 said, “The government's focus on infrastructure is evident in increasing budget outlays, with flagship initiatives like NIP, NLP, and GMP driving steady growth. Optimism is high due to a significant pipeline of projects, indicating sustained and growing demand for the next five years."

Other speakers at the session included; Mr. Sandeep Singh, Managing Director, Tata Hitachi Construction Machinery Company Pvt Ltd; Mr. V G Sakthikumar, Managing Director, Schwing Stetter India Pvt Ltd; Mr. Munish Sharda, Group Executive & Head (Bharat Banking), Axis Banking; Mr. Ramu Ravuri, Managing Director, M/s Sree Raja Rajeswari Constructions(India) Pvt Ltd and Mr. Dhruv Sharma, Founder, Reach International.

CII EXCON 2023 highlighted a collective industry commitment to embrace sustainability, recognizing its significance not only for current operations but also for ensuring a resilient and eco-friendly future. As the dialogue unfolds, it becomes evident that the trajectory of India's infrastructure sector holds promise, backed by determined efforts to address challenges and leverage opportunities for long-term growth.

Photo Caption:  From L – R: Mr Anand Sundaresan, Managing Director, Ammann India; Lt. Gen Arvind Walia, Engineer -In- Chief, Military Engineering Services, Ministry of Defence, Government of India; Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General, Border Roads Organisation and Mr. Sandeep Singh, Managing Director, Tata Hitachi Construction Machinery Company Pvt Ltd at the Session on ‘Exploring Opportunities in Defence & Border Roads Projects’ held in Bangalore on Thursday.

Elgi Powers The 11th Edition Of The Coimbatore Marathon

Elgi Equipments Limited (BSE: 522074 NSE: ELGIEQUIP), one of the world's leading air compressor manufacturers, is committed to fostering a sustainable and healthy lifestyle and living environment for employees, channel partners, and the community across the globe. As a demonstration of this commitment, ELGi is proud to power the 11th edition of the Coimbatore Marathon, the most significant sporting event in Coimbatore. The marathon aims to unite people passionate about running, walking, fitness, and wellness in general, helping them make a difference by raising awareness about cancer - the 2023 edition expects participation from 18500+ runners, including 1600+ ELGi employees and their families.

During the last decade, the collaboration between Elgi Equipments and the Coimbatore Marathon has transformed the fitness landscape in Coimbatore and helped make substantial progress in combating cancer, a critical health issue. The Coimbatore Marathon was conceived as a platform to raise awareness about cancer and support the Coimbatore Cancer Foundation (CCF). Over the years, this event has become synonymous with cancer awareness in the region. The proceeds from the marathon have helped CCF expand its various activities, such as screening, counseling, and support groups, ensuring essential services are accessible to a greater number of individuals. In addition, the proceeds have also helped enhance the monetary aid provided to cancer patients, encompassing surgical procedures, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, diagnostic tests, hospital fees, and rehabilitation services.

For more details on ELGi, visit www.elgi.com

Bandhan Mutual Fund Paves The Way Forward With New Brand Tagline - 'Badhte Raho'

Bandhan Mutual Fund unveiled its new brand tagline - 'Badhte Raho', an invitation to enrich life. The tagline was derived based on the insight that financial security empowers us to live life to the fullest and ‘Badhte Raho’ encapsulates this philosophy by encouraging everyone to celebrate every joy, face challenges confidently, and embrace the continuous journey of progress. In sync with the vibrant spirit, the refreshed visual design language amplifies the dynamism of the flame in the logo, symbolizing innovation, challenging the status quo, and embracing a playful and energetic approach to wealth management.

Vishal Kapoor, CEO, Bandhan AMC, shares, "We often see and know people who are so concerned with building their wealth for the future that they often forget to enjoy the present. Financial security enables people to enjoy the finer things in life, without worrying about the future. Our unique proposition is to help people enjoy their money today while responsibly building wealth for tomorrow. Badhte Raho distils the essence of our attitude and promises into a simple yet powerful statement that encapsulates our values, vision, and commitment. It is a call to enjoy the present, stay positive, share joy, and explore further possibilities. It’s a nudge to learn endlessly, expand perspectives, and embrace new experiences. It urges everyone to be dynamic, push ahead, and keep evolving. It’s a reminder to transform limitations into steppingstones, and challenges into opportunities to overcome."

The new brand voice is infused with a touch of playfulness and creativity, using language that engages and resonates with the audience and sets Bandhan Mutual Fund apart from other fund houses. The new imagery combines eclectic mixed-media visuals with graphic illustration and human elements, playfully supporting a clear message. As the brand embarks on this journey, it invites everyone to join in celebrating the spirit of 'Badhte Raho' – to keep enriching life, where financial security would allow everyone to revel in life's myriad joys. Bandhan Mutual Fund would be the steadfast partner in this playful, innovative, and enriching adventure.

To bring the tagline to life, Bandhan Mutual Fund launches two TVCs - 'Dal Delight' & 'Tuesday Celebration,' focused on showcasing the joy in life's smaller moments. The multimedia campaign spans TV commercials, in-cinema ads, digital platforms, outdoor spaces, and in-flight magazines, creating a visually captivating narrative that celebrates financial security and provides the ability to afford life's little joys.

TVC - Badhte Raho with Bandhan Mutual Fund –

The TVC introduces everyone to the Nema family who enjoy every moment and celebrate the little moments in life. In the first TVC, Dal Delight, the Nema family are seen enjoying home-cooked dal, made by the husband. The neighbour is seen jealously acknowledging the fact that the Nema family celebrate every small thing in life, including dal preparation. Watch Dal Delight - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afHwOQ1cdqs

In the second TVC, a person delivering a parcel to the house is seen asking the Nema family’s neighbour about the celebrations in the house. The neighbour, just as he did in the first TVC, grudgingly says that the Nema family does not need an occasion to celebrate and that they celebrate everything, including Tuesdays.

Watch Tuesday Celebration - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfXel4eaM4E 

ELGi Celebrates Commitment To Innovative, Energy-Efficient Compressed Air Solutions At Technology Day, 2023

Elgi Equipments Limited (BSE: 522074 NSE: ELGIEQUIP), one of the world's leading air compressor manufacturers, marked another milestone in advancing technology and innovation at the 6th edition of Technology Day 2023, held at the Le Meridien, Coimbatore.

Technology Day celebrates ELGi’s commitment to advancing futuristic technology while continuously creating energy-efficient compressed air solutions to minimize emissions and enhance our customers' competitive advantage.

The signature initiative saw over 200 attendees, including ELGi employees and industry representatives, gather to witness the unveiling of cutting-edge developments in the realm of compressed air. The technology team's contributions and complex engineering achievements were applauded during the event, amid technology presentations, knowledge-sharing sessions, and an impressive product display.

For more information on ELGi and its innovative solutions, visit www.elgi.com.

Combonation Announces Its New App: Your One-Stop Destination For Online Shopping!

Combonation, India’s premier combo deal destination, is pleased to announce the official release of its much-awaited mobile application. The platform offers users a one-stop shop for carefully curated combo deals across a wide variety of product categories, revolutionising the e-commerce scene.

Offering a wide range of products, including gift packages, home decor, wellness and health products, beauty and baby care items, Combonation's e-commerce platform stands out. The platform's unique value proposition is its ability to allow users to seamlessly mix and match products, allowing them to create combo deals that suit their preferences.

Combonation's partnerships with well-known brands, such as Ajmal, Beardo, The Body Shop, Wildcraft, Coloressence, and many more, are among its main selling points. Through its partnerships with these reputable names, Combonation guarantees that customers will have access to premium products from reliable brands, along with the added bonus of exclusive bundles and competitive discounts.

Pooja Sodhi, co-founder and CEO of Combonation, stated, "Our vision has always been to redefine the way consumers shop, offering a diverse range of products that can be bundled together to create unique and cost-effective deals. We hope to enhance the shopping experience by offering users the ability to find and personalise combo deals that meet their unique requirements through our easy-to-use app."

To commemorate the app's launch, Combonation is providing an exclusive incentive for new users. Users who register for the app will receive a special sign-up bonus of 10% off their first order. This limited-time offer is Combonation's way of thanking early adopters and welcoming them to the exciting world of personalized combo deals.

Key Features of the Combonation App:

Extensive Product Range: Discover a diverse range of products from various categories.

Brand Collaborations: Get access to merchandise from reputable brands for a reliable online buying experience.

Customised Combo Offers: Assemble products in different combinations to make customized combo offers.

Competitive Discounts: Take advantage of eye-catching savings and premium packages.

User-Friendly Interface: For a hassle-free shopping experience, navigate the app with ease. 

Combonation invites users to download the app and experience the future of combo deal shopping. The app is available for download on iOS and Android, and more information can be found on the official Combonation website. 

Meghalaya’s Khasi Mandarin Takes Centre Stage At The “ZestFest 2023” In Bengaluru

ZestFest, a celebration dedicated to the flavors and cultural significance of the Khasi Mandarin Orange of Meghalaya is all set to captivate attendees with a burst of citrusy excitement spanning over four days starting from the 14th till 17th of December 2023. This unique event aims to showcase the rich heritage and zestful traditions associated with the Khasi Mandarin orange from Meghalaya. 

The event which is scheduled to be held in Bengaluru across different malls located in the city – Lulu Mall, Bangalore, Forum Mall, Kanakpura and Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, will celebrate and showcase the flavors and cultural richness of Meghalaya’s Khasi Mandarin oranges, bringing together local farmers, businesses, and communities in a vibrant celebration. The event witnessed the presence of the Minister of Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh who graced the event as special guest. Hon’ble Agriculture Minister expressed, “The festival serves as a platform for Farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and Farmer Companies to showcase their orange harvest in Bangalore. The market conditions are favorable for farmers to dedicate their efforts, given the government's unwavering commitment to investing in, introducing, and empowering technology-based practices for improved agricultural growth. This initiative aims to prepare agricultural produce for both national and international markets. I encourage the young sellers present to step forward; numerous opportunities await you, and the government is dedicated to providing continuous support. Various schemes, including FOCUS, CM-ELEVATE, and PRIME, have been implemented to facilitate this. Today, we also witnessed a cultural exposure. Even Karnataka has the presence of different tribal groups. Despite differences, there is a cultural unity reflected in their attire and vibrant dances, echoing our own cultural richness. This integration is crucial for our collective progress and understanding.”   

Highlighting Meghalaya’s rich agricultural heritage, ZestFest showcases the succulent Khasi Mandarin oranges, renowned for their unparalleled flavor and vibrant zest. The festival aims to showcase the exceptional quality and distinctive taste of these locally grown oranges, emphasizing the region’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and culinary excellence. It may be mentioned that on the 11th of December 2023, the Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Meghalaya, and the Meghalaya State Agricultural Marketing board in a momentous ceremony, flagged off 20 metric tons of GI-tagged Khasi Mandarin to Dubai marking a significant milestone for Meghalaya’s rich agricultural diversity. 

In addition to the culinary extravaganza, ZestFest will offer a cultural immersion into the world of Khasi Mandarin oranges, including a display of a wide variety of fresh produce, with a focus on Khasi Mandarin oranges and related products. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, witness live demonstrations of orange harvesting techniques, and explore the unique cultural showcase inspired by the vibrant citrus fruit. ZestFest is not just a celebration of Khasi Mandarin oranges but a tribute to the hardworking farmers and the rich agricultural landscape of   Meghalaya. It beautifully encapsulates the essence of community, agriculture, and celebration. It recognizes and applauds the dedication of our local farmers who play a pivotal role in cultivating the exquisite Khasi Mandarin oranges that grace the state of Meghalaya. The festival serves as a platform to shine a spotlight on their tireless efforts, resilience, and the vital contribution they make to the community and appreciate the hard work that goes into every orange we enjoy. It not only promotes Meghalaya’s agricultural heritage but also boosts tourism, and economy, providing a platform for local businesses to thrive.  

Strategic Digital Evolution: Google India And Primus Partners Spearhead Conversation On Responsible AI And Its Applicability

AI has become an increasingly important part of various discourses across different fields and in this context, Google, one of the largest global technology players and one of the leading innovators in the AI space, and Primus Partners, an India management consulting firm brought together 20 thought leaders from various disciplines for an interactive roundtable on “Responsible AI for Online ads” on 14 December, in Chennai.  The discussion was helmed by key government representatives including Consumer Affairs Secretary Mr. Rohit Kumar Singh, and Former Law Secretary, Mr. P.K. Malhotra. The deliberation also saw the participation of lawyers and academicians including from the prestigious IIT Madras, Ashoka University, Trilegal, Samvad Partners, and Cyril Amarchand. Senior Retd. Judges, Former LEAs, Senior Advocates from Madras High Court, and representatives from Startup Tamil Nadu were also present. The diverse group of thought leaders held a detailed discussion on Responsible AI, with a focus on opportunities and challenges for India in the emergence of Artificial Intelligence and discussing possible approaches towards building the right model and unlocking India’s digital innovation.

Bringing in the government perspective, Mr. Rohit Kumar Singh, Secretary at the Ministry of Consumer Affairs spoke about the use of responsible AI from a consumption economy standpoint. He said, “We have to be agile in our approach. Self-regulation as seen in some other emerging sectors, is a way, with reasonable and responsible measures. A balance of regulation and innovation has to be a norm. Also, consumers have to be at the centre stage of the AI ecosystem.”

Vidhya Srinivasan, VP/GM at Google, was also present at the event, quoted shedding light on the current scenario, “We’ve long been using advances in Google Ads, like predictive AI, to help businesses reach consumers at the right time. What’s really exciting about new generative AI capabilities is that advertisers can use AI in a more tangible way to supplement campaign creation and idea generation, while remaining in the driver’s seat. While I’m optimistic about all this and the future, we are taking a thoughtful and responsible approach to how our ads products evolve with AI.”

Mr. Prem Kumar Malhotra, Former Law Secretary, presented his view on the discussion topic by stating, “If we look at the securities market, which is heavily regulated, many of the innovations in the space could not take flight. Something as nascent and evolving as AI, needs to have a self-regulatory start, before transitioning to a necessary regulation path. Its responsible application in sectors like online ads creates an important focus point for both consumers and tech innovators.”

Mr. Nilaya Varma, CEO and Co-founder of Primus Partners conveyed “AI has the potential to reshape the advertising industry while generating positives for the economy such as the creation of jobs, economic development, etc. The untapped potential of leveraging AI in online marketing requires to be unlocked, responsibly, which can further foster an environment for innovation and development in the country. This might initially require the regulatory authorities to create a framework, however, gradually evolving the framework with time and the needs of the industry, can help optimize the targeted outcomes. To carefully capture the potential of generative AI; Industry and the Government will be required to adopt a collaborative approach. The Indian government has been highly optimistic regarding the use of AI in processes and continues to support the digital landscape and related industries to sustain in the country. While innovation and service-providing capabilities can be captured from industries, a more industry-friendly framework focusing on sustainability will be expected from the government to foster innovation and leverage new technologies in India.”

With the growing understanding and complexity of buying patterns, AI is poised to become an integral part of the advertising segment. AI is now penetrating the said sector through various user interfaces like Google ad search engines and many more. The use of AI is intended to provide a better creative landscape for marketers to start their planning and strategy phases effectively, further moulding the generative AI response as per the needs of their campaign. The outlook of the use of AI is to provide marketers with basic auto-generated elements for their promotional campaigns with a background study of the targeted consumer’s buying behavior/pattern over a specific time. 

About Primus Partners Pvt Ltd

Primus Partners Pvt Ltd is a leading management consulting services firm headquartered in New Delhi. Primus provides consulting and advisory services across various industries, including rural management, public policy, and industrialization in both the public and private sectors. Primus is committed to driving sustainable growth and maximising value for its clients through innovative approaches and sectoral expertise. For more information, visit www.primuspartners.in

ICICI Lombard Unveils The 12th Edition Of ‘Caring Hands – Empowering Lives & Building Futures

ICICI Lombard’s annual CSR initiative ‘Caring Hands’ was conducted across locations on Dec 15th, 2023. This CSR initiative is entirely executed and volunteered by employees with association of senior management team since its incorporation. This year the initiative was held across 120 locations, 340+ camps with 5,000+ employee volunteering which impacted around 45,000 lives. With our ethos of ‘Nibhaye Vaade’ ICICI Lombard continues to set up free eye check-up camps to ensure that no child is held back to achieve their true potential.  

Since the inception of the program in 2011, the company has touched 4,00,000 + lives till date and reached out to 2,400+ schools and distributed 70,000+ spectacles across India. It’s a true honor to be a part of a prestigious Guinness World record winner in 2017, with the most eye testing of 1,526 in one hour at multiple venues. ICICI Lombard believes that each child has the right to dream and make way for its future with our ‘Caring Hands’ initiative.   

Speaking on the initiative, Sheena Kapoor - Head Marketing, Corporate Communications & CSR, said, “We are excited to roll out our 12th edition of 'Caring Hands', one of ICICI Lombard's flagship CSR initiatives. This initiative holds a special place in our hearts, as it's entirely propelled by our employees' eagerness to volunteer. On a single day, we have over 3,000 staff members across 340+ government schools nationwide. Moreover it's incredibly heart-warming to meet these lovely school kids and every employee brimming with the satisfaction is what makes 'Caring Hands' so fulfilling."

About ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Ltd.

ICICI Lombard is the leading private general insurance company in the country. The Company offers a comprehensive and well-diversified range of products through multiple distribution channels, including motor, health, crop, fire, personal accident, marine, engineering, and liability insurance. With a legacy of over 21 years, ICICI Lombard is committed to customer centricity with its brand philosophy of ‘Nibhaaye Vaade’. The company has issued over 32.7 million policies, settled 3.6 million claims and has a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of ?217.72 billion for the year ended March 31, 2023.  ICICI Lombard has 305 branches and 12,865 employees, as on March 31, 2023.

ICICI Lombard has been a pioneer in the industry and is the first large-scale insurance company in India to migrate its entire core systems to the cloud.  With a strong focus on being digital-led and agile, it has launched a plethora of tech-driven innovations, including the industry’ first Face Scan on its signature insurance and wellness App - IL TakeCare, with over 5.6 million user downloads. The company has won several laurels including ET Corporate Excellence Awards, Golden Peacock Awards, FICCI Insurance Awards, National CSR awards etc. for its various initiatives. For more details log on to https://www.icicilombard.com/

Yamaha Launches The Much-Awaited R3 And MT-03 In India

-      The Supersport bike R3 flaunts R1 inspired looks and track-oriented design while the torque-rich MT-03 offers the distinct MT look with bold front face design

-      Both the motorcycles come equipped with 321cc liquid cooled engine, Upside Down Front Forks, LCD instrument cluster, LED headlight & taillight, LED Indicators, etc.

-     The models will be imported as CBUs and will be sold through select Blue Square showrooms.

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. is thrilled to announce the launch of the much-awaited models – the track-oriented R3 and the street fighter MT-03 in India, as part of its heart-revving brand campaign - The Call of the Blue. These two iconic motorcycles truly represent Yamaha’s Racing DNA and underscore the brand’s unwavering commitment to advancing the premium motorcycle segment in the Indian market. The brand aims to meet the elevated expectations of legions of riding enthusiasts seeking pure motorcycling experience, maximum performance, and racing pedigree from their motorcycles.

The latest additions to Yamaha’s portfolio, both the models aim to fulfill the growing aspirations of young R15 and MT-15 customers in India. The all new R3 and MT03 boasts a powerful 321cc liquid cooled, 4-stroke, in-line two-cylinder, DOHC and 4-valve per cylinder fuel injected engine that produces 30.9 kW (42 PS) at 10,750rpm of maximum power and 29.5 Nm (3 kg-m) at 9,000rpm of maximum torque. Additionally, both the bikes feature, such as light-weight diamond frame, Upside Down Front Forks, long swingarm and mono-cross rear suspension, multi-function LCD instrument cluster, and LED headlight, taillight & turn signal light. The R3, with strong genetic links from YZR-M1, is built to thrill even hardcore motorcyclists, while the MT-03, with its daring and audacious artwork, attracts those looking for torque and agility in their ride.

Commenting on this remarkable day, Mr. Eishin Chihana, Chairman of Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies said, “As an integral aspect of the 'The Call of the Blue' brand campaign, Yamaha is committed to strengthen its premium segment range by introducing models that appeal to the need of young Indian consumers. The R-series and MT-series models enjoy a huge fan base in India because of their superior performance and iconic design. These Yamaha fans have been waiting for a long time to elevate their riding experience with the larger displacement models in this series. In alignment with this dedication, we are excited to announce today the launch of our latest – supersport bike, R3 and hyper-naked, MT-03 in India. We are confident that both these models, showcasing Yamaha’s cutting-edge technology and innovation, will undoubtedly captivate the interest of our young customers in the country and offer them a thrilling ride experience. With the addition of these step-up models in the R-series & MT-series, we look forward to further nurture the growing premium motorcycle segment in India.”

The R3 has been developed in line with the product concept of “Ride the R Anytime”. The track-oriented characters of the latest Yamaha R3 offer excellent riding confidence, quick-revving performance, and high-rpm efficiency. A near 50/50 weight distribution – ideal setup for supersport bikes – exacted in the latest Yamaha R3 smoothly takes care of the handling performance. The handlebar crown is made of cast aluminum and presents a natural steering feel, while the fuel tank cover ensures unity between the rider and machine. Moreover, the design provides better aerodynamic efficiency with the combo of fairings (cowlings), windscreen, cross layered wing and air duct work that directs airflow to the radiator; everything is an aesthetic pleasure.

The MT-03 comes from the legendary hyper-naked family and is a true master of torque. It has been developed under the concept of “MTs that stimulate your Pride - The Evolution to a True MT Sibling”. This version of the MT-series carries an aggressive design bringing the bold front face with twin-eye positioned lights and yet another distinct “MT” look. Fuel tank area bodywork is well thought-out, offering a sense of size and volume for a big-bike appearance that accentuates the masculinity of the bike. Additionally, offers a snug fit and comfortable sitting position to the rider. The tightly packed look for the front assembly further emphasizes the “mass-forward” body design image highlighting the best of MT family.

Both the motorcycles, which is going to elevate the supersports experience of Yamaha customers, feature a compact and lightweight diamond frame chassis offering optimum balance of strength and rigidity, neutral handling, and easy maneuverability in traffic. Equipped with the all-aluminum DiASil cylinder with offset design and highly heat resistant pistons, they ensure stable engine performance with excellent heat dissipation and reduced horsepower loss. Additionally, the 573mm long swingarm along with mono-cross rear suspension and Upside-Down Front Forks ensure riding confidence. Not just that, the dual-channel ABS lets you ride confidently on any kind of road, while the powerful disc brakes – 298mm at the front and 220mm at the rear provides excellent stopping power with plenty of feel at the lever.

Price and Availability

The R3 and MT-03 both are exemplary specimens of Japanese technology and Yamaha’s multi-decade expertise in producing power-packed and exciting two-wheelers. These models will be available in India as Completely Built-Up Units (CBUs) and will be exclusively sold through select Blue Square dealerships of Yamaha. The customers can book both these models only at India Yamaha Motor’s Website – https://www.yamaha-motor-india.com/ from 15th December onwards.

Yamaha will continue to carry forward the rich legacy of the popular sports bike with such exciting upgradations, thereby enriching the overall experience of the biking enthusiasts in India.

About Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies

Yamaha Motor made its initial foray into India in 1985 as a joint venture. In August 2001, it became a 100% subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd, Japan (YMC). In 2008, Mitsui & Co., Ltd. entered into an agreement with YMC to become a joint investor in India Yamaha Motor Private Limited (IYM). IYM's manufacturing facilities comprise State-of-the-art plants at Surajpur (Uttar Pradesh) and Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu). The infrastructure at these plants supports the production of motorcycles and parts for the domestic as well as overseas markets. YMC has established its subsidiaries - Yamaha Motor Research and Development India Pvt Ltd. (YMRI), Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt Ltd. (YMIS) and Yamaha Motor India Pvt Ltd. (YMI) in India to independently support IYM in the development, sales & marketing of its products and overall business planning & regional control respectively.

Presently, its product portfolio includes YZF-R15 V4 (155cc), YZF-R15S V3 (155cc),  MT-15 V2 (155cc); Blue-Core Technology-enabled models such as FZS-Fi Version 4.0 (149cc), FZS-Fi Version 3.0 (149cc), FZ-Fi Version 3.0 (149cc), FZ-X (149cc), AEROX (155cc) and scooters like Fascino 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR Street Rally 125 FI Hybrid (125cc).

TIPS Industries Onboards Kiran Dcruz As Senior Vice President For Brands And Partnerships

* Kiran will build the brand business and mine new partnership opportunities between brands, artistes and music

TIPS Industries Ltd. (TIPS), a leading player in the music and entertainment industry, today announced the appointment of Mr. Kiran Dcruz as Senior Vice President for Brands and Partnerships. In his new role, Kiranwill lead the strategy for the TIPS Music brand and build collaborative partnership between brands, artistes and music.

With over two decades across various Sales and Business Head roles in the TV, Radio and Music industry, Kiran Dcruz will bring his deep understanding of the entertainment sector to his new role. His expertise in strategy, music licensing, content creation and team management aligns seamlessly with TIPS Industries' commitment to innovation and growth. Prior to joining TIPS Industries, Kiran served as Head – Brand Partnerships at Sony Entertainment Talent Ventures, where he played a pivotal role in setting up India's first Metaverse consulting company for Brands and Talent.

Chairman and Managing Director, Mr. Kumar Taurani said, “We welcome Kiran to Tips Industries. We leverage his extensive experience to drive strategic brand initiatives and expand the company's footprint in the evolving entertainment and media landscape. This is in line with our commitment of delivering 30% growth to our investors"

Mr Hari Nair, C.E.O, TIPS Industries mentions “Kiran is an experienced creative professional who has a proven track record in ideating and creating great partnerships between music, artists and brands. His expertise aligns very well with our objectives of opening up new revenue streams for Tips. I wish him the best”

Mr. Kiran Dcruz, Senior Vice President - Brands and Partnerships, TIPS Industries said, "I’m delighted to become a part of TIPS Industries, a goldmine of music content. Tip’s music is working wonders now & its perfect time to re[1]imagine opportunities, create music experiences through strategic brand partnerships. I look forward to contribute to the revenues & growth of our company”

Kiran has previously worked with brands like MTV, Fever, Red FM, Radio One and Sony Music Entertainment, handling multiple roles . At Sony Music Entertainment, he was the Director - Brand Partnerships & Music Licensing for eight years and was instrumental in setting up the Brand vertical. This was followed by his role as Head – Brand Partnerships at Sony Entertainment Talent Ventures prior to joining TIPS Industries.

About TIPS Industries Ltd.:

Since its establishment in 1988, Tips has consistently invested in music production, amassing an impressive collection of more than 30,000 songs spanning various genres and languages. Committed to crafting music with broad appeal, Tips Music takes pride in delivering high-quality productions. Over the years, our popularity has surged, earning us essential recognition from partners who now consider Tips a vital source of must-have hits for their platforms.

Shared EV Mobility Leader Yulu Partners With The Bengaluru Midnight Marathon (BMM) 2023 As Official Green Mobility Partner

~Collaboration aims to increase awareness about mental and physical health and underline the importance of sustainable urban mobility~

Yulu, India’s largest shared electric Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) player, today announced its association with the 16th Bengaluru Midnight Marathon (BMM) 2023 as the ‘Green Mobility Partner’. The BMM 2023 is being held on December 16, 2023, at KTPO Ground, Whitefield, Bengaluru. The theme for BMM 2023 is ‘Run For Mental Wellness’, a poignant acknowledgment of the crucial role physical activity plays in improving mental health.

One of the first and few night marathons in India, the BMM aims to foster the spirit of running and good health. Past race-day functions at the event have included Indian and Western cultural performances. Currently in its sixteenth year, the BMM is a unique and memorable event that draws runners from all kinds of backgrounds, age groups, and fitness levels.

Mr. R.K. Misra, Co-Founder, Yulu said, “As BMM 2023's official green mobility partner, Yulu is committed to promoting a healthy and sustainable society. The simple act of running teaches us to push past our limitations, deal confidently with life’s challenges, and invite better wellbeing into our lives. The fact that a portion of the raised funds go towards supporting environmental causes also aligns with Yulu’s core belief of making cities greener. Therefore, we are excited to collaborate with BMM once more to achieve these common objectives."

Yulu’s partnership with the BMM will see the company supporting goods-related logistics and people-related logistics (i.e., movement of marshals and organisers) on race-day.

The BMM 2023 is a flagship fundraising event of the Rotary Bengaluru IT Corridor (RBITC), which focuses on education, healthcare, and the environment. The new edition to the roster of events is a Rotary 5K Run. Yulu partnered with BMM in their last physical run in 2019 and 2022 and is continuing the partnership this year.

National Stock Exchange (NSE) Celebrates India's First Ever Listing On Social Stock Exchange Segment By SGBS Unnati Foundation

National Stock Exchange of India’s Social Stock Exchange (NSE SSE) segment scripted a historic moment on 13th December 2023 with the celebration of Country’s First Ever Listing by SGBS Unnati Foundation. The event, held at NSE’s Headquarter located at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai, was attended by an esteemed gathering of dignitaries, NPOs, Regulators and media houses.

The First Listing witnessed fund mobilization of Approx. INR 1.8 Cr, which will enable SGBS Unnati Foundation to impart training to approx. 10,000 graduating youths in their final years from government colleges located across various states, such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

Shri. Ashwani Bhatia, Whole Time Member, SEBI said “This is the momentous day for our country as we witness the launch of listings on a new platform that will enable Social Enterprises including Non-profit Organisations to access capital and raise funds for a noble cause. Social stock exchange or SSE is a visionary initiative of the Government of India, that was presented in the budget of 2019 to create an ecosystem that foster social innovation, inclusion, and impact. SSE as envisaged in India does not have any parallel across any jurisdiction across the world and aims to provide a transparent and credible mechanism for investors to identify, evaluate and support social ventures that are creating positive change in our society.”

Dr. R. Balasubramaniam – Chairman, Social Stock Exchange Advisory Committee, SEBI said “The historicity of today’s event is truly coming from the space of working at the grass roots with communities operating under the distress of inconsistent, inadequate funding to ensure social change happens. It is a moment of real pride and honour to be participating with the hope that this will change the social fabric of this country itself. It is all our collective responsibility to make sure that the SSE of India becomes a global benchmark” He also mentioned that capacity building is not only required for the NPOs, but also for the regulators and exchanges. They need to equally understand the social sector.

Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO of NSE said “NSE listed companies have created social impact in the form of wealth creation, job creation and overall economic growth through common person’s participation in the markets for the last three decades. With the listing on Social Stock Exchange, the impact is going to increase manifold. This framework offers a host of advantages such as Transparency, Trust, Efficiency, Cost Savings, Discoverability, Impact Measurement and Outcome Based Philanthropy. By aligning the dual goals of corporate success and societal impact, SSE creates a space where philanthropists, impact investors, donors, and NPOs converge - each contributing to a shared vision of a more equitable and sustainable future.” He also gave a special mention to SEBI that played a pivotal role in launching the Social Stock Exchange framework in India.

On this occasion, Shri Ajit Kesari - Additional Chief Secretary Finance, Government of Madhya Pradesh talked about the “Social Impact Bond initiative of the Government of Madhya Pradesh through outcome-based funding mechanism under Social Stock Exchange framework. Madhya Pradesh government has been pioneer in adopting new and innovative mechanisms for service delivery backed by the research and diligence. We have identified certain projects across healthcare and livelihood sectors for implementation of social impact bonds, and defined outcome metrics in simple and measurable way. The State Government can offer large-scale enhancement opportunities to SSE registered NPOs through this mechanism.”

Shri Amit Chandra, Co-Founder A.T.E Chandra Foundation and Chairperson, Bain Capital India, a member of the SSE committee said that “Ordinary Indians are capable of solving problems of their brothers and sisters and therefore the social stock exchange is a great enabling idea with potential to thrive in the coming future. Every Social Stock exchange in the world has failed before this one, over a decade, has the potential to succeed. With that there will be hundreds, possibly thousands of listings which will democratise the raising of capital for Indian social profit organisations”.

Currently, there are 39 registered Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) on NSE SSE Platform and amongst these, several NPOs have already initiated their fund-raising process across the developmental areas such as education, skilling, agriculture, and poverty alleviation of tribal farmers. Moving onwards, many other NPOs are intending to raise fund through SSE platform.

About National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE):

National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) is the world’s largest derivatives exchange by trading volume (contracts) as per the statistics maintained by Futures Industry Association (FIA) for calendar year 2022. NSE is ranked 3rd in the world in the cash equities by number of trades as per the statistics maintained by the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) for calendar year 2022. NSE was the first exchange in India to implement electronic or screen-based trading. It began operations in 1994 and is ranked as the largest stock exchange in India in terms of total and average daily turnover for equity shares every year since 1995, based on SEBI data. NSE has a fully integrated business model comprising exchange listings, trading services, clearing and settlement services, indices, market data feeds, technology solutions and financial education offerings. NSE also oversees compliance by trading, clearing members and listed companies with the rules and regulations of SEBI and the exchange. NSE is a pioneer in technology and ensures the reliability and performance of its systems through a culture of innovation and investment in technology.

For more information, visit: www.nseindia.com

HFCL Takes The Lead: Unveiling A New Era In Defence Tech With Cutting-Edge Radars

In a notable development, HFCL Limited (HFCL), a technology enterprise in India and provider of state-of-the-art telecommunication products and solutions, is poised to transform its impact in the defence sector. This transformation involves a strategic focus on radar technologies to fulfil the critical Information, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) needs of Defence and Security Forces. The deployment of these cutting-edge radar technologies offers unparalleled advantages and showcases versatile applications across multiple sectors, underscoring HFCL's unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the defence industry.

In its initial offering, HFCL through its 90% owned subsidiary, Raddef Private Limited, a R&D enterprise specialising in cutting edge radars and RF solutions, has designed a range of Surveillance Radars catered to meet diverse operational needs. These radars employ Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) technology offering numerous advantages over other radar technologies, including high accuracy, low power consumption, and resistance to interference. Apart from the application of ground surveillance for border and parametric security, FMCW radars offer a wide range of applications, from weather radar to navigation systems. Their unique capability to simultaneously measure  distance and velocity positions them as essential technology for various modern applications. With diverse variants catering to specific operational requirements, these surveillance radars are exceptionally versatile, portable, and deployable across challenging and hostile terrains.

HFCL is also actively engaged in the development of a state-of-the-art Drone Detection Radar, poised to be an important component of modern drone detection systems. HFCL’s ongoing cutting-edge research and development initiatives extend to a diverse range of radar technologies. These include Doppler Weather Radars, Threat Emulators, LTE-based Passive Radars, Fog and Foliage Penetration Radars, Coastal Surveillance Radars, Avalanche Detection Radars, Altimeters, and more. These innovative radar systems, spanning various technologies, play a pivotal role in meeting the operational and functional needs of users across diverse sectors and domains.

The worldwide market for surveillance Radars is expected to reach to USD 12 billion per annum by 2030 from the current market size of USD 6.87 billion per annum.

Mr. Mahendra Nahata, Managing Director, HFCL said, "We embark on a transformative journey, driven by a vision to fortify national security and innovation. Our foray into ground surveillance radars, drone detection radars, and a spectrum of advanced radar solutions reflects our commitment to empowering defence and security forces with cutting-edge technology. These radars, with their diverse applications across sectors, symbolize our dedication to safeguarding the present and shaping a secure future for our nation. Our strategic investment of 90% in Raddef Private Limited underscore HFCL's commitment to fostering Make-in-India technology, solidifying our position as a trusted partner in the defence communication domain. "

India accounts for 3.7% of global military spending, making it the third highest military spender in the world after the U.S. and China. This makes it to be a huge opportunity for HFCL to contribute and lead with innovation in Indian Defence tech space.  In alignment with the Government’s Make in India Policy, HFCL is proud to contribute in helping the Country modernise its military capabilities, through its indigenous defence tech innovations.

About HFCL

HFCL is a leading technology company specialising in creating digital networks for telcos, enterprises and governments. Over the years, HFCL has emerged as a trusted partner offering sustainable high tech solutions with a commitment to provide the latest technology products to its customers. Our strong R&D expertise coupled with our global system integration services and decades of experience in fibre optics enable us to deliver innovative digital network solutions required for the most advanced networks.

The Company’s in-house R&D Centres located at Gurugram & Bengaluru along with invested R&D Houses and other R&D collaborators at different locations in India and abroad, innovate a futuristic range of technology products and solutions. HFCL has developed capabilities to provide premium quality Optical Fibre and Optical Fibre Cables, state-of-the-art telecom products including 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) products, 5G Transport Products, WiFi Systems (WiFi 6, WiFi 7), Unlicensed Band Radios, Switches, Routers and Software Defined Radios and defence electronics products.

The Company has state-of-the-art Optical Fibre and Optical Fibre Cable manufacturing plants at Hyderabad, Optical Fibre Cable manufacturing plant in Goa and in its subsidiary HTL Limited at Chennai.

HFCL is a partner of choice for its customers across India, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa and USA. HFCL’s commitment to quality and environmental sustainability inspires it to innovate solutions for the ever-evolving customer needs.

Visit www.hfcl.com for more information.

A ‘Learn Earn And Progress Programme (LEAP)’ Of A Lifetime With Tata Motors

Young men and women from different parts of the country have taken a LEAP of faith with Tata Motors’ initiative ‘LEAP (Learn Earn and Progress Programme)’ for the past decade. Run under the Public-Private-Partnership Model (Industrial Training Institutes, Tata Motors dealers & TASSs and Tata Motors), the programme aims to provide sustainable livelihoods, especially to unskilled youths from disadvantaged sections of society. Notably, the programme's success is evident as it has expanded from two institutes in 2013 to an impressive 60 institutes by 2022, and 1500 youth get trained under the programme every year.

A 12-month programme, the LEAP curriculum dedicates 70% of the curriculum to hands-on experience at service centres, creating a comprehensive learning environment. With a focus on inclusivity, LEAP has on its rolls underprivileged youth both from rural as well as urban and semi-urban localities, who have dropped out of school and there is focussed effort to register more women under the prorgramme.

Tata Motors serves as a knowledge partner and provides the content for the training, while Industrial Training Institutes provide the required infrastructure for conducting the training. Dealer & TASSs help these students with on-job training and stipend for the same. The programme has been clocking 85% placement on an average in the past decade. In addition to this, increasing number of women are getting enrolled in the programme and diversity has grown to 13% in the past decade.

Vinod Kulkarni, Tata Motors' Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, said, "LEAP transcends a skills programme and qualifies to be a transformative programme wherein future of the attendees are moulded into compelling success stories. The programme has a twin purpose of creating workforce for the future as well as empowering individuals and their families to improve their standards of living and above all, rekindle their dreams. LEAP highlights Tata Motors’ unwavering determination to bring about affirmative changes within communities we work in."

In its continuous evolution, LEAP remains agile, embracing new technologies and entrepreneurial modules to adapt to dynamic market demands. LEAP embodies a dynamic force driving positive change, exemplifying Tata Motors' enduring pledge to empower, innovate, and build a brighter tomorrow for all.

Stovekraft Continues To Expands Its Product Line With The Pigeon Ultra-Fast Electric Chopper

Stovekraft Limited, a leading name in innovative cookware and kitchenware appliances, has announced the addition of the Pigeon Ultra-Fast Electric Chopper to its diverse product line. This launch underscores Stovekraft's commitment to providing advanced solutions that align with the evolving preferences of modern households.

Commenting on the launch and explaining the functionality of the product, Mr. Rajendra Gandhi, MD, Stovekraft Ltd, said, “We are committed to enhancing kitchen experiences through cutting-edge and dependable appliances. In today's modern and fast-paced lifestyle, where kitchen efficiency and versatility are of the utmost importance, the Pigeon Ultra-Fast Electric Chopper exemplifies this dedication, providing a harmonious mix of performance, durability, and safety. It efficiently chops, minces, and dices various ingredients, delivering professional-grade results, thanks to a powerful 300-watt motor with 100% pure copper winding."

Dr M Nanda, the CMO of Stovekraft Ltd, added “The launch of our ground-breaking Ultra-Fast Electric Chopper speaks of our team's dedication and innovative spirit! This product made for mass usage redefines efficiency and speed – this isn’t any ordinary chopper, it's a product that will set new standards in the industry. From fruits and vegetables to herbs and nuts, this chopper's precision and speed will transform the way we approach food preparation. In seconds, what used to take minutes will now be accomplished effortlessly, allowing our customers to save time without compromising on quality”

The robust Pigeon Ultra-Fast Electric Chopper comes with a powerful motor for swift and efficient chopping and is complemented by versatile stainless steel twin blades. Its durable design includes a 600 ml BPA-free container with an unbreakable plastic body. The user-friendly one-touch button ensures easy operation, while safety is enhanced by anti-slip rubber feet. While the multi-splash lid minimizes mess, users should take care to attach the top part properly for effective functioning. Chops everything is seconds not in minutes. 

Nestlé India Celebrates five years Of Project Hilldaari

~Over 28,000 metric ton waste diverted from landfills through the project~

Project Hilldaari is a Nestlé India initiative in partnership with PLAN Foundation and Stree Mukti Sangathana and technical partner Recity India Pvt Ltd. Over the last five years, project Hilldaari has successfully developed inclusive and resilient models for waste management in select tourist cities of India. The project is currently operational in Ponda, Mussoorie, Mahabaleshwar, Munnar, Dalhousie, Darjeeling and Palampur

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestlé India said, "Five years ago we embarked upon an important journey with Project Hilldaari by bringing about positive change through collective action and adopting sustainable waste management models. Through a multi-stakeholder approach, we are successfully implementing this project across 7 tourist destinations and the project has grown from strength to strength. I would like to congratulate all our partners, for making our vision a reality.”

Upon reaching the milestone of five years for Project Hilldaari, Ms. Jyoti Mhapsekar, President, Stree Mukti Sanghatana said, “The last five years of Project Hilldaari have been extremely fulfilling for the team, where we conducted some meaningful work such as professionalization of the waste workers community. We take pride in the way we have been able to raise awareness across stakeholders. We would continue to collaborate and positively impact the ecosystem in these cities.”

Meha Lahiri Co-founder, COO and CFO, Recity Network India expressed her elation on the milestone and said, “Recity Network India has been working towards giving rise to a circular economy of plastics and Hilldaari has been one of the shining examples of projects aiding this cause. We are extremely happy with the progress we have made with Project Hilldaari and would continue to put continued efforts to take this cause further.”

Project Hilldaari in its existing locations across India has diverted more than 28,000 MT of waste from landfill through source segregation. 80% of source segregation has been achieved across more than 20,000 residential and commercial waste collection points.

Hilldaari believes that every member of the society can contribute towards making a positive change. These partnerships invoke a sense of solidarity and collective spirit among citizens. The initiative is progressively working towards professionalizing waste workers towards segregation of waste at source through a multi-collaborative approach with municipal councils, citizens, contractors, waste workers and influencers. Through Project Hilldaari over 560 waste workers have trained to become a part of behaviour change interventions. The project has also provided them with occupational ID, benefits such as health insurance, protective gear necessary for their work and other such benefits.

ABP News Shines Bright, Bags Most Golds At afaqs' Future of News Awards 2023!

ABP News, a leading national Hindi news channel of India, reaffirmed its prominence in the media industry by securing an impressive tally of nine (9) awards, which included six (6) Golds - more than any other single channel at the afaqs Future of News Awards 2023 held on December 14. Recognizing excellence in both Hindi and English languages, the event spotlighted ABP News' profound impact and contributions across diverse spectrum of categories, notably excelling in the realm of Hindi media.

The accolades secured by ABP News at the afaqs Future of News Awards 2023 encompass:

The recognition received through these awards vividly illustrates ABP News' steadfast commitment to consistently deliver news content that profoundly resonates with its audience. Through its tireless efforts, ABP News upholds a standard of journalism that informs and influence, ensuring each piece of information shapes opinions and perspectives as a trusted narrative. This dedication, validated by the awards, solidifies ABP News’ position as a leading voice in the media landscape dedicated to impacting and resonating with its diverse audience.

About ABP Network

An innovative media and content creation company, ABP Network is a credible voice in the broadcast & digital sphere, with a multi-language portfolio of news channels reaching 535 million individuals in India. ABP Studios, which comes under the purview of ABP Creations – the content innovation arm of the network – creates, produces, and licenses original, path-breaking content outside of news. ABP Network is a group entity of ABP, which was incorporated almost 100 years ago and continues to reign as a leading media company.

Godrej Consumer Products Launches Godrej Fab – An Affordable Liquid Detergent Priced At Just INR 99

o    Exclusively launched in Southern India in the first phase, Godrej Fab is high-performance liquid detergent which will be present across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala

o    Godrej Fab cost almost half the cost compared to other liquid detergents in the category

Godrej Consumer Products Limited (GCPL), a leading emerging markets company, is reshaping the Indian laundry care category with the introduction of Godrej Fab. The product is a high-performance liquid detergent here to redefine the laundry experience. Exclusively launched in Southern India, Godrej Fab is available at an attractive price point of INR 99 for a one-litre bottle, thus offering a good quality product at almost half the cost compared to other liquid detergents in the market. Additionally, a convenient 100ml sachet is available at just INR 10, providing double the quantity than competing liquid detergents. Be it for consumers opting for Bucket wash or machine washing, Godrej Fab eases the chore of doing laundry, transforming it into a gratifying experience.

Commenting on the launch, Ashwin Moorthy, Chief Marketing Officer - India, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL), said, “Godrej is a pioneer in the liquid detergent category with Ezee - dominating the market in North and East with its winter specialist credentials. From household insecticides; hair colour to soaps, Godrej Consumer Products has always democratised categories. With Godrej Fab, too, we are leveraging our expertise in the liquid detergent category and making it accessible to everyone, thereby democratising access to quality laundry care.”

He further added, “The liquid detergent category is one of the fastest growing categories. This growth is due to increased household penetration of washing machines across South. Consumer awareness and adoption of liquid detergents is also growing with features such as easily soluble format, quality wash experience and more fragrance compared to powder detergents. Godrej Fab will further support the growth of the category by catering to consumers who seek an enhanced laundry experience at a competitive price point.”

The liquid detergent category is one of the fastest growing categories in India’s FMCG sector.  The growth of liquid detergents is spearheaded by the Southern region that commands close to half of overall nationwide sales.

Amongst Southern states, Karnataka is a significant player commanding a substantial share of the liquid detergent market. This indicates category familiarization and immense potential for growth. GCPL’s entry into the rapidly expanding liquid detergent market is poised to reshape consumer preferences in laundry category and establish a new benchmark for excellence in the Karnataka.

Godrej Fab offers a superior laundry experience at consumer's convenience by effortlessly dissolving in water, leaving no residue after minimal rinsing, preserving vibrant colors, and ensuring fresh, fragrant clothes post-wash. It is suited for bucket wash, semi-automatic and fully automatic top load washing machines.

As GCPL embarks on this journey to redefine how Indians approach laundry, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, quality, and accessibility. Godrej Fab's launch in South region is a testament to GCPL's dedication to ensuring that every household can enjoy the benefits of premium liquid detergent without compromise.

ABOUT GODREJ CONSUMER PRODUCTS

Godrej Consumer Products is a leading emerging markets company. As part of the over 125-year young Godrej Group, we are fortunate to have a proud legacy built on the strong values of trust, integrity, and respect for others. At the same time, we are growing fast and have exciting, ambitious aspirations.

Today, our Group enjoys the patronage of 1.2 billion consumers globally, across different businesses. We rank among the largest Household Insecticide and Hair Care players in emerging markets. In Household Insecticides, we are the leader in India, the second largest player in Indonesia and are expanding our footprint in Africa. We are the leader in serving the Hair Care needs of women of African descent, the number one player in Hair Colour in India and Sub-Saharan Africa, and among the leading players in Latin America. We rank number two in Soaps in India and are the number one player in Air Fresheners and Wet Tissues in Indonesia.

But for us, it is very important that besides our strong financial performance and innovative, much-loved products, we remain a good company. Approximately 23 per cent of the promoter holding in our Group is held in trusts that invest in the environment, health, and education. We are also bringing together our passion and purpose to make a difference through our 'Good & Green' approach to create a more inclusive and greener India.

At the heart of all of this, is our talented team. We take much pride in fostering an inspiring workplace, with an agile and high-performance culture. We are also deeply committed to recognising and valuing diversity across our teams.

LG Celebrates 50 Years Of Korea-India Diplomatic Relations At "Rang De Korea" Event

In a momentous celebration of cultural diversity and unity, LG Electronics proudly participated in the "Rang De Korea" event, held at Ansal Plaza Mall in New Delhi, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Korea-India diplomatic relations. The event was organized in collaboration with the Korea Cultural Centre (KCC) and witnessed a historic gathering of companies and dignitaries from both nations.

The gala event took place on December 10, 2023, at Ansal Plaza Mall, Hudco Place, Andrews Ganj, New Delhi. The occasion saw the participation of prominent companies such as Kia Motors, Dalgrak, Amorepacific (Innisfree, Etude, Sulwhasoo, Laneige), Orion, Atomi, Hyundai Motors, LG Electronics, Koindotrading (Korikart), SAZAXA(????), and CJ, totaling 10 key contributors to the vibrant cultural exchange.

At the event, Ambassador Chang Jae-bok and Shri Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs, graced the occasion as distinguished guests. Their presence underscored the profound significance of the bilateral relations between the two nations.

Commenting on the same, Jae Hyung Jun-Head Corporate Marketing said, “At LG, our unwavering commitment to the Indian market drives us to deliver superior products. Extending our LIFE’S GOOD brand philosophy we participated in vibrant “RANG DE KOREA” festival. The festival was a unique platform to showcase our latest offerings, bringing customers first-hand experiences. On this historic occasion, we reaffirm our dedication to fostering connections, promoting cultural exchange, and contributing to the enduring friendship between Korea and India.”

The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of both Korea and India through various performances, featuring the Korean traditional art performer "J I Art Troupe" and the mesmerizing LED art performer "Gwangtal." Additionally, the All India K-POP contest 2023 winner from the vocal category, 1st runner up from the dance category and K-POP girl group X also graced the stage with their talent.

With a footfall of over 4,000 attendees, "Rang De Korea" served as a platform for fostering greater understanding and appreciation of the deep-rooted connections between Korea and India.

LG Electronics, a key participant in this celebration, reaffirms its commitment to promoting cultural exchange and strengthening the bonds between Korea and India. The company extends its gratitude to all the participants, guests, and attendees who contributed to making the event a resounding success. Earlier this year company organised KPOP contest in association with KCC, more than 11,000 people participated in this contest.

About LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company 

The LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company is a global leader in home appliances, smart home solutions, air solutions as well as visionary products featuring LG ThinQ AI. The company is creating various solutions with its industry leading core technologies and is committed to making life better and healthier for consumers by developing thoughtfully designed kitchen appliances, living appliances, HVAC and air purification solutions. Together, these products deliver enhanced convenience, superb performance, efficient operation and compelling health benefits. For more news on LG, visit www.LGnewsroom.com.

Kotak Mahindra Bank Associates With IIT Kanpur To Establish India’s First Fully Integrated School Of Sustainability

* The Hon’ble Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the initiative.

* Kotak School of Sustainability will focus on multiple facets of sustainability enabling India’s goal of pursuing sustainable development

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) and the Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited ("KMBL"/ "Kotak") today announced the launch of Kotak School of Sustainability - India’s first fully integrated school of sustainability at IIT Kanpur. The launch event was graced by Shri. Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India as the chief guest; Dr. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, and Shri. Nagendra Nath Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Steel, as guests of honour; Prof. S. Ganesh, Director, IIT Kanpur; Mr. Prakash Apte, Chairman Kotak Mahindra Bank, Shanti Ekambaram, Whole-time Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank, C S Rajan, Independent Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Himanshu Nivsarkar, Senior EVP and Head CSR, Kotak Mahindra Bank and Mr. Kapil Kaul, Chief Executive Officer, IIT Kanpur Development Foundation.

Global warming poses a serious threat to our existence, manifesting in untimely natural calamities, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Research indicates irreversible 'Tipping Points' with rapid, harmful climatic changes. Realising this is an imminent existential crisis and that anthropogenic activities need to be environmentally sustainable; world leaders have been discussing in COP (Conference of Parties) meetings to come up with policies and actions that can lead to a sustainable future. The United Nations (UN's) seventeen sustainable development goals address this challenge, crucial in densely populated countries like India. Urgent climate actions are needed to mitigate, adapt, and build resilience.

Despite the challenge, collaboration among policymakers, academia, businesses, and society offers opportunities for the mitigation, adaptation and resilience to climate change. In addressing the climate-driven sustainability challenge, educational institutions play a vital role. The UN emphasizes education's role in promoting climate action, empowering people to understand and address climate impacts. Sustainability education and research require academic institutions to blend environmental science and clean technology-based approaches with social, economic and ecological aspects of sustainability. Institutions, through Education, Empowerment, and Engagement (3E), can lead climate action, empowering communities and conserving the natural ecosystem.

To address this challenge, IIT Kanpur and KMBL have come together to establish India’s first integrated School of Sustainability. KMBL is funding IITK through its CSR program to establish Kotak School of Sustainability with a vision to promote pedigree education, research, and outreach. Kotak and IITK believe that this School is poised to offer thought leadership solutions towards sustainability actions and prepare future generations to lead the cause of sustainable development. The School will bring together departments and centres of excellence at IITK with an aim to provide an enabling environment for collaborative research across multiple facets of sustainability. Kotak School of Sustainability will have dedicated centres of excellence covering different aspects of sustainability such as clean energy, environment, ecology, circular economy, climate finance, sustainable societies and policy.

The Kotak School of Sustainability will be led by tenured professors and leading industry experts from across the globe. The School is placed to run both undergraduate and postgraduate academic and skill-building programs in different themes of sustainability. The School will be housed in a green building in IITK’s main campus that will be platinum-rated with net zero practices on energy, water, and waste.

Shri. Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Union Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, said “The National Research Foundation was set up to boost research and innovation through funding from industry and government. I thank Kotak Mahindra Bank for taking the right step and accepting the responsibility by contributing towards setting up the School of Sustainability. The Kotak School of Sustainability will give global leadership in the field in line with the history of IIT Kanpur and its alumni who are leaders in organizations across the world. The school will not only be about technology and economics, but will cover the A to Z of sustainability. This will be instrumental in helping India meet the ambitious target of net zero by 2070, as announced by our Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi ji.”

Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India, said, “Kotak School of Sustainability highlights IIT Kanpur’s commitment to offer a holistic approach to address sustainability challenges due to climate change. School’s mission are in sync with India's National Missions related to sustainability. The school will help in developing a strong foundation for sustainable development to achieve a climate resilient economy and society and will support country’s climate action plans and national target to reach net zero by 2070. "

Shri. Nagendra Nath Sinha, Secretary, Ministry of Steel, said “Opening of a School of sustainability serves an important need of the Indian economy. The goal of Sustainability requires inter-disciplinary approach which this school offers while the solutions must be contextual. The school would be able to draw faculty, researchers, students, policymakers, and diverse stakeholders to attempt solutions to complex and seemingly intractable problems. I am looking forward to this institution significantly contributing towards the progress of the society and economy, benign to Mother Earth. “

Mr. Prakash Apte, Chairman, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, “We are delighted to announce the establishment of the Kotak School of Sustainability in association with IIT Kanpur. This association in line with our CSR vision to enhance the quality of life for communities through positive impacts on economic, social, and environmental parameters, aligns with India’s social development objectives and UN’s SDGs. We believe the creation of this School provides both Kotak and IIT Kanpur with a timely opportunity to create a legacy and work towards sustainability, the most important survival challenge we face today.”

Prof. S. Ganesh, Director, IIT Kanpur, said, “Sustainability has emerged as one of the foremost global challenges of our times which requires various stakeholders to work together and the role of educational institutes like ours is extremely crucial in this mission. Adding to many of IIT Kanpur’s path-breaking initiatives and with the generous CSR funding support from Kotak Mahindra Bank, Institute is establishing 'Kotak School of Sustainability' with the overall vision of providing thought leadership, developing concrete solutions toward sustainability actions, and preparing future generations to lead the cause of sustainable development.”

Ms. Shanti Ekambaram, Whole time Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, “As India continues on its growth path with aspirations to reach high middle-income status, our ability to exist and develop without depleting all of the natural resources will be a challenge that needs to be addressed. The Kotak School of Sustainability marks our commitment to contribute to growing India’s skilled workforce towards achieving the goal of long term sustainable development including its net-zero target by 2070. The Bank’s CSR Project being implemented in association with IIT Kanpur will focus on enhancing home-grown capabilities to address sustainable development.”

Prof. Ashish Garg, Professor-in-Charge of the School, said, "The Kotak School of Sustainability aims to excel in sustainability education, research and innovation, technology development, entrepreneurship, and outreach. The key to the development of holistic end-to-end technology solutions for sustainable development will be school’s emphasis on synergistic integration of different aspects of sustainability for greater educational, scientific, technological, environmental and social impact.”

Kotak Karma is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) identity of the Kotak Mahindra Group of companies.

*Source:   https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/sites/21db61c1-en/index.html?itemId=/content/publication/21db61c1-en

About Kotak Mahindra Bank

Established in 1985, Kotak Mahindra Group is one of India's leading financial services conglomerates. In February 2003, Kotak Mahindra Finance Ltd. (KMFL), the Group's flagship company, received banking licence from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), becoming the first non-banking finance company in India to convert into a bank - Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited

The Bank has four Strategic Business Units – Consumer Banking, Corporate Banking, Commercial Banking, and Treasury, which cater to retail and corporate customers across urban and rural India. The premise of Kotak Mahindra Group’s business model is concentrated India, diversified financial services. The bold vision that underscores the Group’s growth is an inclusive one, with a host of products and services designed to address the needs of the unbanked and insufficiently banked. The Bank has been publishing its approach to and performance on Sustainability via its Annual Integrated Report. As on 30 September 2023, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd has a national footprint of 1,850 branches and 3,170 ATMs, and branches in GIFT City and DIFC (Dubai).

For more information, please visit the company’s website at https://www.kotak.com/

About IIT Kanpur:

Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur was established in 1959 and declared to be to be an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. IIT Kanpur is best known for the highest standard of its education in science and engineering and seminal R&D contributions over the years. The institute has a sprawling lush green campus spread over 1055 acres with large pool of academic and research resources spanning across 19 departments, 25 centers and 3 interdisciplinary programs in engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines with more than 570 full-time faculty members and approximately 9000 students.

For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in