TVS Motor Company Unveils The Upgaded TVS Apache RR 310 With Advanced Features

TVS Motor Company (TVSM) - a leading global automaker in the two and three-wheeler segment - unveiled the updated TVS Apache RR310 – its flagship offering in the Super Premium Sports Motorcycle category. The 2025 edition is compliant to the OBD-2B norms. It commemorates the 20th anniversary of the TVS Apache series and the milestone of surpassing 6 million customers worldwide.

The TVS Apache RR 310 is a masterpiece forged from over four decades of TVS Racing dominance. Engineered for pure performance, it takes inspiration from the record-shattering machine that dominated the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) with a best lap time of 1:49.742 seconds and a blazing top speed of 215.9 km/h. This isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement of speed, precision, and racing pedigree.

First launched in 2017, the Apache RR310 has been a pioneer in the super sport motorcycle segment, setting benchmarks in power, technology, and design. With continuous evolution, the latest upgrade introduces key enhancements that elevate its appeal and riding experience.

The all-new TVS Apache RR 310 will be available in two variants with three BTO customization options. Designed for pure super sport performance, it features an aggressive fully-faired design and race-focused ergonomics for optimal control on the track. Equipped with four dynamic riding modes - Track, Sport, Urban, and Rain; it adapts seamlessly to varying conditions. Powering the machine is a refined reverse-inclined DOHC engine, delivering an impressive 38 PS at 9,800 rpm and a peak torque of 29 Nm at 7,900 rpm, ensuring an exhilarating ride.

Segment First Features

Sequential TSL

Cornering Drag Torque Control (RT-DSC)

Additional New Features

Launch Control (RT-DSC)

Gen-2 Race Computer with Multi Language Support

8 Spoke Alloy Wheels

Speaking about the launch, Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, "Since its debut in 2017, the TVS Apache RR 310 has emerged as a formidable force in the super-premium sport motorcycle segment, redefining performance benchmarks through its race-bred DNA. Rooted in over 43 years of TVS Racing heritage, it embodies our relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. The latest evolution of the RR 310 integrates cutting-edge technologies such as segment-first : sequential turn signal lamps (TSL), Launch Control, and Drag Torque Control—reinforcing our leadership in rider-focused advancements. The new BTO Race Replica colourway pays tribute to our record-breaking TVS Asia One Make Championship legacy. With this latest avatar, the Apache RR 310 not only pushes the boundaries of track performance but also elevates everyday rideability—delivering a thrilling yet refined experience that appeals to both spirited racers and discerning enthusiasts.”

A striking new Sepang Blue Race Replica colour scheme inspired from the TVS Asia OMC race bike has been introduced with the upgraded TVS Apache RR310.

Bookings for the new TVS Apache RR310 is now open.

The latest updates reaffirm TVS Apache RR 310’s position as a leader in the super premium motorcycle category. With advanced rider aids and premium features, it continues to push the boundaries of technology and performance, offering riders an exhilarating experience on the road and track.

Sify Reports Robust Consolidated Financial Results For FY 2024-25

* Revenues of INR 39886 Million. EBITDA of INR 7562 Million

Loss for the Year was INR 785 Million.

HIGHLIGHTS

Revenue for the year was INR 39886 Million, an increase of 12% over last year.

EBITDA was INR 7562 Million, an increase of 12% over last year.

Loss before tax was INR 286 Million. Loss after tax was INR 785 Million.

CAPEX for the year was INR 12745 Million.

MANAGEMENT COMMENTARY

Mr. Raju Vegesna, Chairman, said, “India’s emergence as a global growth hub is no longer a forecast. It is a present-day reality. India is set to become the third-largest economy by 2030-31 with projected annual growth of 6.7%, according to S&P Global.

This growth is underpinned by liberal economic reforms, a vibrant startup ecosystem, and a demographic dividend. With over 1.2 billion mobile phone users and the second-largest internet user base globally, India is now a important test-bed for emerging technologies such as AI, 5G, and cloud computing.

Government initiatives like ‘Digital India’ and ‘Startup India’ have further accelerated tech innovation, with India now home to over 100 unicorns. For global enterprises, the convergence of policy support, digital infrastructure, and deep talent positions India as a growth opportunity that is both immediate and immense.”.

Mr. M P Vijay Kumar, ED & Group CFO, said, “We remain committed to cost efficiency and fiscal discipline, aligning our financial strategies with long-term value creation across all our businesses. While we plan essential investments for future readiness, our current results face multiple headwinds of depreciation, interest expenses, and rising manpower costs. Our approach remains to invest to build resilience, enhance operational agility, and capture emerging opportunities.  The income tax expense includes tax, both current and deferred tax, of Rs.539 Million on profit of its data center subsidiary.

The cash balance at the end of the year was INR 6836 Million”.

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS 

The Revenue split between the businesses for the year was Data Center services 38%, Digital services 21% and Network services 41%.

As of March 31, 2025, Sify provides services via 1137 fiber nodes across the country, a 10% increase over last year.

As of March 31, 2025, Sify has deployed 1870 contracted SDWAN service points across the country.

CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENTS

Among the largest new contracts for the year were the following:

Data Center Services

One of India’s earliest Security SaaS companies migrated from a competitor’ data center to Sify Data Center.

One of the largest private banks in India nearly doubled their capacity for DR.

One of the largest Public Sector lenders in India has signed up for significant capacity in our latest hyperscale data center campus in the west.

Digital services

One of the largest private networks, the largest English media publishing group, an upcoming IT major and an MNC into heavy engineering signed up to migrate from their on-premise data center to multiple Cloud platforms.

The largest housing lender, the largest NBFC, a joint venture steel making major and private capital advisor signed up for Greenfield cloud implementation.

A subsidiary of an automobile major, a heavy engineering group, the largest MNC in India and a performance materials and specialty chemicals manufacturer signed up for services like DRaaS, PaaS and IaaS.

The largest insurance player and the National insurance regulator signed up for Private Cloud commissioning at their data center.

Multiple banks, a MNC in steel manufacturing, an NBFC and a retail major signed up for Managed services.

Three of the largest banks and a paint manufacturing major were the largest signups for Security services, including building their Security Operations Center.

Network Services

A Public Sector insurance major signed up for a full suite of Network connectivity services including SD-WAN services across 3500 locations.

A major ITeS player signed up for security services for their entire rooster of clients.

An upcoming regional player and a ITeS MNC signed up for Managed services for their clients in western and eastern India.

A co-operative bank signed a multi-year deal for on-site NOC support services.

The largest Indian clearing house for foreign currency settlement signed up for two different services in two regions.

One of the largest vendors operating the ID authentication for India’s airport regulatory authority signed up for SD-WAN at multiple airports. 

Management-defined Performance Measures (MPMs)

Sify uses Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA) as the management-defined performance measure in its public communications. This measure is not specified by IFRS Accounting Standards and therefore might not be comparable to apparently similar measures used by other entities.

Management believes adjusting operating profit for these items provides comprehensive information of the company’s operating performance.

About Sify Technologies

A multiple times award winner of the Golden Peacock from the Institute of Directors for Corporate Governance, Sify Technologies is India’s most comprehensive ICT service & solution provider. With Cloud at the core of our solutions portfolio, Sify is focussed on the changing ICT requirements of the emerging Digital economy and the resultant demands from large, mid and small-sized businesses. 

Sify’s infrastructure comprising state-of-the-art Data Centers, the largest MPLS network, partnership with global technology majors and deep expertise in business transformation solutions modelled on the cloud, make it the first choice of start-ups, SMEs and even large Enterprises on the verge of a revamp.

More than 10000 businesses across multiple verticals have taken advantage of our unassailable trinity of Data Centers, Networks and Digital services and conduct their business seamlessly from more than 1700 cities in India. Internationally, Sify has presence across North America, the United Kingdom and Singapore. Sify, www.sify.com, Sify Technologies and www.sifytechnologies.com are registered trademarks of Sify Technologies Limited.

Non-IFRS Measures 

This press release contains a financial measure not prepared in accordance with IFRS. In particular, EBITDA is referred to as “non-IFRS” measure. The non-IFRS financial measure we use may be calculated differently from, and therefore may not be comparable to, similarly titled measures used by other companies - refer to the reconciliation provided in the table labelled Financial Highlights for more information. In addition, these non-IFRS measures should not be considered in isolation as a substitute for, or as superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with IFRS, and our financial results calculated in accordance with IFRS and reconciliation to those financial statements should be carefully evaluated.

Mining Industry Unites At DGMS Seminar To Tackle Safety In Bulk Material Handling

Directorate General of Mines Safety, Ministry of Labour & Employment, Govt. of India organised two day National Seminar on 16th & 17th April 2025 at Bengaluru, on “Safety challenges in Bulk Material Handling Equipment of Mining (Coal and Non-coal)” under the guidance of Shri Ujjwal Tah, DG, DGMS as Chief patron.

Shri D Bageshwar Naik, DDG(Mech) as Chairman, Shri Ajay Singh, DDG (Elec), Shri R T Mandekar, DDG, NW Zone, as co-convenor, Shri P.M. Prasad, CMD, CIL,  Shri Amitava Mukherjee, CMD, NMDC, Shri Uday A. Kaole, CMD, MCL, Shri N. Balram, CMD, SCCL are patrons to this seminar.

Dignitaries Shri Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC, Shri S.K. Sinha, Director (Operations), HCL, Shri Nirbhay Sancheti, Director (SMS), Shri R.A. Meena, DDG(WZ), Shri Suprio Chakraborty, DDG (EZ), Shri Neeraj Kumar, DDG (NZ), Shri Satyanarayana, Director, SCCL, presided in the seminar.

Officials from Mining companies, including CIL, NMDC, SCCL, HZL, HCL, MCL, Tata Steel, JSW, faculty members from premier mining institutes, experts from global mining safety organisations and research institutes and equipment manufacturers participated in the seminar.

In the seminar, 30 technical papers were presented, and a total of 58 papers were published in the souvenir for understanding and analysing the present safety challenges in Bulk Material handling in the mining industry, and deliberations were made to find out a way forward to mitigate associated risks.  This seminar provided a framework to ameliorate safety standards and to strengthen the implementation of statutory provisions to improve the safety and health of persons employed in the mining industry. The seminar concluded with a valedictory function and felicitation of the participants.

Madhya Pradesh’s Glorious Heritage Moves Towards Inclusive Tourism

* Work underway in Maheshwar, Mandu, Dhar, and Orchha to make historic sites accessible for all

Every monument has a story, every ruin whispers history, and every ancient wall echoes the soul of a civilization. This World Heritage Day, Madhya Pradesh is not just celebrating its rich cultural legacy, but also ensuring that its heritage is experienced by everyone — regardless of ability.

In a remarkable initiative to make tourism more inclusive, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is executing the ‘Accessibility Infrastructure and Development’ project across four prominent heritage sites — Maheshwar, Mandu, Dhar, and Orchha. The move is aimed at making these culturally significant destinations accessible to persons with disabilities through thoughtfully designed infrastructure like ramps, Braille signage, accessible washrooms, and wheelchair-friendly pathways.

“Under the guidance of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav and the leadership of Minister of State for Tourism, Culture and Religious Trusts & Endowments (Independent Charge) Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, we are working to have more of Madhya Pradesh’s iconic locations added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. Our goal is to make these destinations not only more visited, but more inclusive. This is a step towards enabling every individual, regardless of physical ability, to experience the timeless beauty of our heritage,”

— Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board.

Heritage for All: What the Project Entails

Designed with a people-first approach, the project will enhance facilities for those with locomotor disabilities, visual and auditory impairments, intellectual and multiple disabilities. Modern features like audio guides, tactile paths, and signboards in Braille will offer a more immersive experience to visitors.

Major Site-Wise Interventions:

• Maheshwar: Improvements at Narmada Resort, Ram Kund, Devi Museum, Kaleshwar Temple, Jaleshwar Temple, and Kamani Gate.

• Mandu: Development at Seven-Chamber Temple, Delhi Darwaza, Jami Masjid, Ashrafi Mahal, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb, Rani Roopmati Pavilion, Baz Bahadur Palace and others.

• Dhar: Upgrades at the ancient Bagh Caves and Bagh Museum.

• Orchha: Infrastructure for accessibility at Raja Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, Rai Praveen Mahal, Chhatris, Panchmukhi Mahadev Temple, and Tamirat ki Kothi.

The detailed project plan is ready, and financial support is proposed under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Once implemented, this will further position Madhya Pradesh as India’s most inclusive tourism state, enabling a larger, more diverse group of travelers to engage with its timeless heritage.

A UNESCO-Rich State

Madhya Pradesh currently has 18 sites recognized by UNESCO, with 3 on the permanent list — Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, and Sanchi Stupa — and 15 on the tentative list, including:

• Ashokan Rock Edicts, dating back 2,200 years

• The mystical Chausath Yogini Temples (Khajuraho, Mitaoli, and others)

• Ancient Gupta-era temples that showcase India’s temple architecture at its early zenith

• Grand Bundela palaces and forts in Orchha, Datia, and Gadhkundar

• Gwalior Fort, Bhojeshwar Temple, the Bhedaghat-Marble Rocks in Narmada Valley, and more

These recognitions reaffirm Madhya Pradesh’s reputation as the heart of India’s heritage landscape — where every stone is steeped in stories, and every initiative is a step towards preserving those stories for all.

Dream, Together’ With Sonata’s Wedding Collection, Crafted For Modern Couples

Weddings mark the beginning of a new chapter, where connections, values and aspirations seamlessly intertwine to create a shared future. Today weddings are evolving to embrace each other's personal identity while building a relationship that fosters support and mutual growth. Embracing this evolving narrative, Sonata, India’s largest-selling watch brand from Titan, unveils its latest wedding collection centered around the ‘Dream, Together’ theme, reinforcing its position as the ultimate destination for wedding watches.

Marriage is more than just a union of two individuals; it is a start of a new chapter, a fresh journey into shared dreams, aspirations and a lifetime of experiences. Dream, Together captures the essence of what this milestone means to a modern couple: a blend of tradition and modernity, commitment and conviction. The narrative positions Sonata as an ideal companion for those who carve out their identity in relationships and build a shared future, with thoughtfulness and confidence.

The wedding collection reflects this very sentiment, making it perfect for young couples who wish to leave a lasting impression on their special day. Blending traditions with new-age design, the collection features sleek, well-defined silhouettes and an artful medley of detailing and bold accents. Featuring designs that combine contemporary sophistication, a hint of sparkle and a whole lot of glamour, Sonata’s wedding range is more than a statement piece or a thoughtful gift; it is a reflection of the wearer’s personality and aspirations, as they prepare to walk the aisle. Whether paired with a traditional ensemble or a contemporary look, these timepieces elevate every wedding celebration with effortless style and refined confidence.

With this, the brand reflects the spirit of the upstart generation who embrace new beginnings with passion, enthusiasm and ambition. As a gift or symbol of self-love, these timepieces become the perfect choice for brides, grooms, groomsmen, bridesmaids, and loved ones who wish to mark the occasion with something truly meaningful.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Prateek Gupta, Marketing Head, Sonata said, "Today's ambitious upstarts are apprehensive when it comes to commitment because they think it may hinder their personal growth. However, partnerships are pathways to broaden dreams, not limit them. At Sonata, we recognize that weddings symbolize the union of two futures. Through our ‘Dream, Together’ narrative, we highlight the transformative power of shared time over individual time, celebrating the synergy of two individuals who, when together elevate each other’s goals."

Starting at INR 2495, explore the Sonata Wedding Collection at Titan World outlets or online at www.sonatawatches.in. Embrace your new journey with style and celebrate your shared journey with Sonata.

HDFC Life: Another Year Of Sustained Performance And Consistent Delivery: 18% Individual APE Growth

The Board of Directors of HDFC Life approved and adopted the audited standalone and consolidated financial results for the year ended March 31, 2025. The Company grew faster than the sector, whilst delivering healthy performance across all key metrics.

Performance Highlights:

Topline Growth: Delivered strong individual APE growth of 18%, supported by increase in both number of policies sold and ticket size and a balanced product mix

Market Share: Overall market share (individual WRP) increased by 70 bps to 11.1% for the period 11MFY25. Private sector market share stood at 15.7%, an increase of 30 bps

Value of New Business (VNB) grew by 13% to ? 3,962 crore, reflecting robust growth in profitable business

Assets under Management (AUM): AUM stood at ? 3,36,282 lakh crore as on 31st March 2025, an increase of 15% YoY

Persistency: Our persistency for the 13th and 61st months stood at a strong 87% and 63%, respectively. Notably, our 61st-month persistency saw a significant improvement of 1000 basis points, demonstrating the company's deep customer engagement and effective retention initiatives

Embedded Value (EV) grew by 17% and stood at ? 55,423 crore, with 16.7% operating return on EV, showcasing sustained long-term value creation for shareholders

Profit After Tax (PAT) of ? 1,802 crore was achieved in 12M FY25, clocking a steady growth of 15% year-on-year, helped by an 18% increase in profit emergence from our back book. The Board has recommended a final dividend of ? 2.1 per share, in line with our dividend payout policy, aggregating to a payout of about ? 452 crore

Solvency Ratio stood at 194%, comfortably above the regulatory threshold of 150%

Employee Focus: certified as Great Place to Work in 2025, highlighting commitment to employee well-being. Also recognized amongst the top 50 organisations for building a culture of innovation by Great Place to Work. HDFC Life was recognised for its inclusivity and employee-friendly policies, being awarded the Best Companies for Women in India 2024 in the BFSI sector and Exemplar of Inclusion (Most Inclusive Companies India 2024) by Avtar & Seramount.

CEO’s Statement:

Vibha Padalkar, Managing Director and CEO of HDFC Life, commented: “FY25 was a year where we deepened our reach, continued sharpening our value propositions and demonstrated the resilience of our business model. We are happy to report an 18% growth in Individual APE for FY25, in line with our stated growth aspirations for the year. Our overall industry market share expanded by 70 bps to 11.1% and by 30 bps to 15.7% within the private sector.

Retail protection continued to show strong momentum with APE growth of 25%. All channels registered double-digit growth. We continue to enhance customer experience through intuitive digital platforms, with over 90% of service requests now handled via self-service.

As we enter our 25th year of existence, our aspiration remains, against a backdrop of a stable regulatory regime, to consistently outpace sector topline growth, deliver VNB growth in line with APE growth and double key metrics every 4 to 4.5 years.”

Definitions and abbreviations

Annualized Premium Equivalent (APE) - The sum of annualized first year regular premiums and 10% weighted single premiums and single premium top-ups

Assets under Management (AUM) - The total value of Shareholders’ & Policyholders’ investments

managed by the insurance company

Embedded Value Operating Profit (EVOP) - Embedded Value Operating Profit (“EVOP”) is a measure of the increase in the EV during any given period, excluding the impact on EV due to external factors like changes in economic variables and shareholder-related actions like capital injection or dividend pay-outs

First year premium - Premiums due in the first policy year of regular premiums received during the financial year. For example, for a monthly mode policy sold in March 2025, the first monthly instalment received would be reflected as First year premiums for 2024-25 and the remaining 11 instalments due in the first policy year would be reflected as first year premiums in 2025-26, when received

New business received premium - The sum of first year premium and single premium, reflecting the total premiums received from the new business written

Operating expense - It includes all expenses that are incurred for the purposes of sourcing new business and expenses incurred for policy servicing (which are known as maintenance costs) including shareholders’ expenses. It does not include commission

Operating expense ratio - Ratio of operating expense (including shareholders’ expenses) to total

premium

Operating return on EV - Operating Return on EV is the ratio of EVOP (Embedded Value Operating Profit) for any given period to the EV at the beginning of that period

Persistency - The proportion of business renewed from the business underwritten. The ratio is measured in terms of number of policies and premiums underwritten

Premium less benefits payouts - The difference between total premium received and benefits paid (gross of reinsurance)

Renewal premium - Regular recurring premiums received after the first policy year

Solvency ratio - Ratio of available solvency margin to required solvency margin

Total premium - Total received premiums during the year including first year, single and renewal premiums for individual and group business

Weighted received premium (WRP) - The sum of first year premium received during the year and 10% of single premiums including top-up premiums

About HDFC Life

Established in 2000, HDFC Life is a leading, listed, long-term life insurance solutions provider in India, offering a range of individual and group insurance solutions that meet various customer needs such as Protection, Pension, Savings, Investment, Annuity and Health. The Company has over 70 products (individual and group products) including optional riders in its portfolio, catering to a diverse range of customer needs.

HDFC Life continues to benefit from its increased presence across the country, having a wide reach with branches and additional distribution touch-points through several new tie-ups and partnerships. The count of distribution partnerships is over 300, comprising banks, NBFCs, MFIs, SFBs, brokers, new ecosystem partners amongst others. The Company has a strong base of financial consultants.

For more information, please visit www.hdfclife.com.

Malaysia Aviation Group Achieves Positive NIAT Of RM54mil And Third Consecutive Operating Profit On The Back Of Operational Headwinds

* Positive EBITDA at RM788mil with Operating Profit at RM113mil

* Stronger load factor, averaging 80%, a 3 percentage point increase from 2023

Malaysia Aviation Group (“MAG” or “the Group”) reports a positive Net Profit After Interest and Tax (NIAT) of RM54 million for the year 2024, marking a third consecutive year of positive operating profit at RM113million. This performance is further underscored by a robust Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of RM788 million, achieved despite operational headwinds, including proactive network cuts in Q4 2024, which reduced capacity by 18%.

The Group maintained a strong cash balance of RM3.0 billion as of 31 December 2024, without any capital injections from its main shareholder, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, since October 2021.

The capacity cuts, driven by supply chain disruptions which extended maintenance times and delays in new aircraft delivery, were implemented during a traditionally strong quarter, impacting the Group’s full-year revenue, which stood at RM13,679mil – a marginal 1% decrease year-on-year on the back of a 6% increase in Available Seat Kilometre (ASK). However, passenger traffic remained robust in the premium segment with stronger load factors for both passenger and cargo segments. The Group also expanded its international network through new routes and deep partnership collaborations.

The Group's positive NIAT was further supported by a reversal of impairment on Rights of Use Assets, Aircraft, Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangible Assets amounting to RM426 million. These impairments, initially recognised during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, were reversed due to improved capacity, revenue, seat factor, and yield experienced in the financial years 2023 and 2024.

Operational Highlights: Airlines and Non-Airlines Business Segments Airline Business Segment

Malaysia Airlines Berhad (MAB) posted an operating profit of RM139 million, a 87% decline from RM1.09 billion in 2023 due to lower yield and detrimental impact of capacity cut in Q4 2024.

MAB's yearly capacity increased by 7%, with a 17% rise in passengers carried and a load factor of 81% compared to 77% in 2023.

MAB introduced three new destinations: Male (Maldives), Da Nang (Vietnam), and Chiang Mai (Thailand), and resumed flights to Kolkata, India.

MAB’s on time performance (OTP) improvement was impeded by aircraft constraints, with just a 1% improvement year-on-year.

Firefly’s loss widened year-on-year due to the commencement of its jet operations in Subang Airport. Load factor registered a 10 ppt increase year-on-year but yield declined by 19% due to jets operation from Subang Airport.

Amal by Malaysia Airlines recorded a 36% improvement in its financial performance year-on-year.

Non-Airline Business Segment

MAB Kargo, the Group’s cargo division, posted a higher operating profit, supported by additional capacity and higher load factor. The load for belly and freighter cargo was 8 percentage point and 3 percentage point higher respectively.

AeroDarat Services, the ground handling solution provider, reported a remarkable improvement in its financial performance. Operating profit increased three times on the back of higher flights handled for the Group and foreign carrier business segment.

MAB Academy, the Group's premiere training and development arm, achieved better results than the previous year, while MAB Engineering Services faced challenges due to skilled workforce shortages.

In 2024, MAG and its subsidiaries received significant global recognition for their products and services. Malaysia Airlines was awarded the APEX Four-Star Major Airline status and ranked among the Top 10 for World's Best Cabin Crew by Skytrax, while also moving up to #39 (from #47) in the World’s Best Airline rankings. The mainline also received awards for its in-flight dining, reflecting its commitment to enhancing its onboard offerings, including through the introduction of its Best of Asia menu. Additionally, the Enrich loyalty programme continued to earn accolades for its strong performance in member engagement and customer loyalty.

Remarks by Group Managing Director of MAG, Datuk Captain Izham Ismail

2024 has been a testament to MAG’s resilience and commitment to both growth and sustainability. While facing operational challenges, we have not only maintained profitability but also ensured that we are strategically positioned for the future. As we work towards our vision of Destination 2030, a future of stability and growth, we remain deeply focused on two guiding principles: commercial sustainability and nation building. Our vision is clear – to continue playing a key role in the nation’s economic development while ensuring the long-term strength and competitiveness of the Group.

A central element of this strategy is our continued investment in modernising and expanding our fleet. By 2030, we aim to operate a modernised, new generation narrowbody fleet of 55 aircraft comprising the Boeing 737-8 and 737-10, significantly enhancing our operational efficiency and flexibility to better serve both domestic and international markets. In parallel, we are progressively integrating the A330neo aircraft into our long-haul network, further elevating the travel experience for our customers. Two aircraft have already entered service, operating to Melbourne, Bali and Auckland, with eight more expected this year.

As our fleet modernisation progresses, we are also strengthening our network to maximise connectivity and meet growing demand. With forward bookings increasing approximately 9% year-on-year, our mainline will continue to expand its presence in key markets including ASEAN, Australia, New Zealand, and South Asia, reinforcing our role as the gateway to Asia and beyond. This strategic growth is further complemented by our return to Paris on 22 March 2025, marking the second European destination in our network.

Meanwhile, our non-airline businesses will continue to support MAG’s broader strategic objectives. MAB Academy’s new simulator building, set to complete by Q2 2025, is poised to enhance regional training capabilities as a premiere aviation training provider. To support MAG’s fleet expansion and growing demand for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, MAB Engineering Services will continue to strengthen its talent pipeline, while Hangar 4 in Subang (SZB) remains on track to open in Q1 2026, further enhancing our maintenance capacity. At the same time, MAG’s catering operations (MCAT) continues to grow from strength to strength, having transitioned to the new MCAT West facility, which is well-positioned to support the Group’s future in-flight catering aspirations and expansion.

These strategic investments not only position MAG for success but also demonstrate our ongoing contribution to the nation’s growth by fostering employment, improving connectivity, and driving economic activity. As we move forward, we remain committed to building a strong, commercially sustainable organisation that contributes meaningfully to Malaysia’s development, all while delivering exceptional value to the stakeholders we serve.

About Malaysia Aviation Group

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) is a global aviation organisation comprising three focused business portfolios from Airlines, Loyalty and Travel Services (LTS) and Aviation Services.

Its current Airlines business portfolio that serves the global, domestic and segmented market comprises Malaysia Airlines – the national carrier of Malaysia, Firefly and MASwings – the regional airlines focused on serving communities across Malaysia, and AMAL by Malaysia Airlines – leading one-stop pilgrimage travel solutions centre.

MAG also focuses on Aviation Services business such as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), cargo, ground handling and training that houses MAB Engineering, MASkargo – one-stop cargo logistic and terminal operations service provider, AeroDarat – one-stop ground handling solution provider and Malaysia Airlines Academy – one-stop Aviation and Hospitality Centre of Excellence.

The Loyalty and Travel Services (LTS) business portfolio focuses on providing end-to-end travel solutions and loyalty programs, complementing its established strength and expertise in the airline and aviation service businesses. It comprises Journify - the integrated one-stop travel and lifestyle digital platform, Enrich – the award-winning Travel & Lifestyle Loyalty Programme of Malaysia Airlines; and MHholidays – the flight and hotel package arm for the Group.

With the clear business portfolios, MAG is set to achieve its vision anchored on becoming Asia’s Leading Travel and Aviation Services Group, focused on delivering highly customised, end-to-end travel solutions by 2025.

Celebrate The Summer Wedding Season With Rivaah By Tanishq, A Bridal Collection Rooted In Traditional For The Mordern Day Bride

* Blending Heritage and Innovation with Exquisite Bridal Jewellery for the Modern Bride

As the auspicious festival of Akshaya Tritiya approaches, Tanishq’s exclusive wedding sub-brand, Rivaah, is set to celebrate the grandeur of upcoming summer Indian weddings with its exquisite bridal jewellery collections. With a profound understanding of diverse wedding traditions, Rivaah by Tanishq is all set to offer the perfect jewellery for every occasion — from the Nishchayam to the Muhurthum to the grand reception. Each piece is designed not only to honor these cherished traditions but also to reflect the individuality and elegance of the bride. Rivaah seamlessly blends heritage with personal expression, empowering brides to craft their own unique bridal narrative. Rivaah by Tanishq is committed to elevating every aspect of the wedding experience, ensuring that each moment resonates with timeless elegance.

Recognizing the evolving preferences of today’s South Indian bride, Rivaah by Tanishq presents a thoughtfully curated selection of bridal jewellery — blending cultural richness with contemporary design sensibilities. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted over 100 days using time-intensive techniques such as nakshi engraving, temple repoussé, Kasu malai linkwork, Kemp stone inlay, hand-strung pearl bunching, granulation, and South Indian-style filigree. From flexible chokers and structured mango harams to vankis, layered necklaces, and statement waist belts, the collection reflects a modern interpretation of South Indian bridal jewellery — detailed, elegant, and deeply personal. Designed to complement bridal silks while offering versatility across functions, every piece is a blend of precision craftsmanship and purposeful design.

By reimagining heritage forms through a modern lens, Rivaah by Tanishq caters to the individual style of today’s bride — confident, expressive, and rooted in authenticity.

As Akshaya Tritiya symbolizes new beginnings, and with the onset of the ‘diamond wedding season’, the collection caters to the growing demand for jewellery that seamlessly blends tradition, intricate high value designs, and long-term value. Weddings are deeply personal, and Marriages Crafted by You embodies the spirit of self-expression, allowing brides to celebrate their tradition while embracing contemporary elegance. Each design of the wedding collection narrates a story of custom and modernity, making it an heirloom-worthy investment for every bride. The Natural Diamonds collection epitomizes luxury and sophistication, featuring timeless jewellery that combines traditional artistry with modern aesthetics; highlights include natural diamond chokers and necklace sets, offering versatility for various wedding occasions.

Pelki Tshering, Chief Marketing Officer, Tanishq, said, “Jewellery buying is intrinsically rooted in the South Indian culture. It is a symbol of prosperity and tradition, and as we enter a high-intent buying season driven by weddings and Akshaya Tritiya, customers are looking for options that are rooted in cultural sensibilities yet have a modern touch. In line with this, Rivaah by Tanishq’s latest collection offers jewellery that aligns with this sentiment. Created in response to the rising preference for heirloom-worthy natural diamond jewellery and gold that can be passed on for generations, it offers timeless value and regional craftsmanship. As a brand, we continue to focus on innovation within tradition, ensuring to remain the preferred one-stop bridal destination for modern Indian consumers. We also recognise the current price volatility when it comes to purchasing a desired piece, this is why customers can now avail the best deals, including the Rivaah Golden Advantage scheme that mitigates the impact of fluctuating prices and enables customers to buy their dream jewellery”.

To elevate the festive shopping experience, Tanishq is offering a powerful value proposition with up to 20% off on making charges of gold jewellery and diamond jewellery value, along with 101 off per gram on gold purchases. Customers can also benefit from Gold Rate Protection by booking in advance and stay shielded from price hikes. Adding to the value, Tanishq assures 100% exchange value on old gold brought from any jeweller, reinforcing trust, flexibility, and smart gold buying this season.

Quest Global Agrees With MRO Japan To Provide Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Services

Quest Global, a leading global product engineering services company, today announced that it has entered into an agreement with MRO Japan Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture), which is a regular member of the Okinawa Aviation Industry Cluster Formation Promotion Committee and a core business operator in the cluster, to provide aircraft maintenance engineering services to major aircraft engine and airframe manufacturers.

Quest Global is a global engineering services company with a proven track record of providing engineering services to major aircraft engine and airframe manufacturers for over 20 years. Through its support of MRO Japan, Quest Global will contribute to the growth of MRO Japan's aircraft maintenance business, as well as contribute to the formation of the cluster as a regular member of the Okinawa Aviation Industry Cluster Formation Promotion Committee.

“Quest Global is thrilled to partner with MRO Japan on this very strategic and important program. It is an honor to join in this partnership which we believe will deliver value to Okinawa and Japan overall through economic impact, jobs, and recognition across the global A&D market,” said Dean Kuroff, President and Global Business Head, Aerospace & Defense, Quest Global. “MRO is one of the fastest growing and most essential services needed across the Aerospace and Defense industry today, will be for years to come, and will continue to be a vital part of the value we bring to our clients and the A&D industry overall.”

About Quest Global

At Quest Global, it's not just what we do but how and why we do it that makes us different. We are in the business of engineering, but what we are really creating is a brighter future. For over 25 years, we've been solving the world's most complex engineering problems. Operating in over 20 countries, with over 85 global delivery centers, our 20,000+ curious minds embrace the power of doing things differently to make the impossible possible. Using a multi-dimensional approach, combining technology, industry expertise, and diverse talents, we tackle critical challenges faster and more effectively. And we do it across the Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Energy, Hi-Tech, MedTech & Healthcare, Rail and Semiconductor industries. For world-class end-to-end engineering solutions, we are your trusted partner. 

Launch Of The 3rd Call For Applications For Villa Swagatam Residencies, Across South Asia And France

The French Institute in India and the French Embassy in India announce the launch of the third edition of the Villa Swagatam cross-residency programme, which brings together around thirty partners across France, India, Bangladesh and as of 2025, Sri Lanka. In South Asia, the focus is on two key themes of bilateral cooperation: literature and arts and crafts. In 2025, a residency for translators has also been introduced.

Launched in March 2023 during the visit of French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna to New Delhi, highlighted the roadmap adopted for the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership in July 2023. The programme has already supported around fifty residents in just two years, offering residencies ranging from one to three months. 

“Villa Swagatam reflects a shared desire to strengthen human exchange between our countries in a meaningful and sustained manner. The French Embassy in India acts as a catalyst to foster the emergence of new creative dialogues and to deepen mutual appreciation of our respective cultures,” emphasised H.E. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India.

The new call is open to French and Indian applicants who wish to join one of the network's residencies in 2025–2026. Applications are open until Monday, 2 June 2025, at midnight (CEST).

An overview of the origins and philosophy of the programme

Villa Swagatam aims to create a community of artists and writers who will become key players in renewing the cultural dialogue between France, India and South Asia, in the spirit of renowned cultural figures such as painter S.H. Raza, Nobel Prize-winning writer Rabindranath Tagore, screenwriter and author Jean-Claude Carrière, or theatre director Ariane Mnouchkine. The project also reflects the commitment of the French Institute in India to both cultural and environmental sustainability, favouring longer-term residencies.

This initiative stands alongside other prestigious French programmes that seek to build international networks of artistic residencies, such as Villa Albertine in the United States, Villa Kujoyama in Japan, Casa de Velázquez in Spain, as well as Villa Medici and Le Grand Tour in Italy. Two features distinguish Villa Swagatam: firstly, a commitment to reciprocity, with Indian laureates hosted in France under the same terms since 2024; secondly, the programme relies on a network of local partner residencies for the selection and support of residents, thereby ensuring greater visibility for the programme thanks to the involvement of a wide range of contributors.

A network of French, Indian and regional partners (Bangladesh and Sri Lanka)

Since its inception, Villa Swagatam has carefully onboarded partners for their deep roots in specific cultural contexts and their ability to represent regional cultures in innovative ways. The choice of partners — which includes both established residency spaces and those launched through the initiative, as well as workshops, publishing houses, and private foundations — reflects the diversity and vitality of the existing creative ecosystem.

Villa Swagatam is further enriched by an exceptional network of French partners that have been welcoming Indian writers and creators since September 2024. These French institutions were selected for their excellence and recognition in their respective fields, as well as their strong commitment to international exchange.

Practical details and residency framework

The Villa Swagatam call for applications is open to any French or Indian national (regardless of current country of residence), as well as any applicant who has lived in France or India for over five years (regardless of nationality). The selection process is conducted by the French Institute in India in close collaboration with each partner, in order to identify the candidate best suited to the objectives of the residency.

The French Institute in India covers international flights, visa fee reimbursements and a monthly allowance to support residents with daily living expenses. The residency, which lasts between 1 and 3 months, provides accommodation, a workspace, and production support. Thanks to its extensive network, the French Institute in India also facilitates connections between residents and major cultural institutions in the specific countries, thereby encouraging enriching exchanges during and after the residency. Residents dedicate part of their time to outreach activities, which may include open workshops, school visits, or participation in literary festivals and art fairs.

The programme is supported by the Institut français.

Villa Swagatam includes around thirty partner residencies, organised into three thematic and geographic categories.

In South Asia, the focus is on the following sectors:

Literature:

*   Alice Boner Institute (Varanasi) - literature

*   Eklavya Foundation (Bhopal) - children’s literature

*   Himalayan Writing Residency (Sathkol) - literature

*   MAD Salon+Lab (Bangalore) - graphic novels and comics

*   Rachna Books (Gangtok) - literature / graphic novels

*   Sangam House (Bangalore) - literature

*   Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts (Angoulême and Goa) - graphic novels and  comics

*   Tara Books (Auroville) - children’s literature

*   Vagamon Writers Residency (Vagamon) - literature

*   Lakmahal Library (Colombo) - literature

Arts and Crafts:

*   Brihatta Art Foundation (Dhaka) - arts and crafts

*   Hampi Art Labs (Hampi) - arts and crafts

*   Jaipur Rugs (Jaipur) - hand-weaving

*   Kalhath Institute (Lucknow) - embroidery

*   Katkatha Puppet Arts Trust (Faridabad) - puppetry

*   Khoj International Residency (New Delhi) - design, technology, curatorial research, visual arts

*   Nila House (Jaipur) - textile and indigo

*   Public Arts Trust of India (Jodhpur) - arts and crafts

*   Serendipity Arts (New Delhi) - visual arts

*   Vastrakala (Chennai) - embroidery

*   Kochi-Muziris Biennale (Kochi) - visual arts

In France, there are ten partner residencies open to all types of artistic and literary profiles:

*   Centre National de la Danse (Pantin) - contemporary dance

*   La Maison de la Poésie de Nantes (Nantes) - poetry

*   La Maison des auteurs - Cité Internationale de la Bande Dessinée et de l’Image (Angoulême and Goa) - graphic novels and comics

*   La Maison Julien Gracq (Saint-Florent-Le-Vieil) - literature

*   La Marelle (La Ciotat) - literature & hybrid writing practices

*   La Napoule Art Foundation (Château de La Napoule) - literature, visual arts, performing arts

*   Art Scribes Award x Prameya Art Foundation (Château de La Napoule) - critical writing and curatorial practice

*   La Villa Gillet (Lyon) - literature

*   Manufactures Nationales (Paris et Sèvres) - arts and crafts

*  Le Chalet Mauriac (Saint-Symphorien) - translation

MAHE Manipal Signs MoU With MedisimVR To Advance VR-Based Skills Training In Medical Education

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 14 with MedisimVR, a pioneering company in Virtual Reality (VR) solutions for medical skills training.

The MoU marks a significant step forward in integrating immersive technologies into medical education.   The MAHE-MedisimVR will drive cutting-edge research in VR for healthcare and medical education, enable skill development, establish a VR skill lab in the campus, and foster innovation through various activities.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sharat K. Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor -Health Sciences reiterated that MAHE’s commitment to technological innovation in medical education and outlined its vision for the future of VR integration in curriculum and skill development.   Highlighting the initiative Dr. Giridhar Kini, Registrar of MAHE highlighted VR’s role in enhancing student engagement.

Providing context to the collaboration, Dr. Sambit Dash, a senior faculty at Department of Basic Medical Sciences -MAHE (DBMS-MAHE) highlighted the transformative potential of VR in enhancing the clinical skills and competency-based training.  Dr. Harish Kumar, Director -Corporate Relations at MAHE, elaborated MAHE’s expanding industry-academia collaborations, while Dr. Vimal Krishnan,  Head of Emergency Medicine at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, shared insights into the ongoing VR-related research initiatives at MAHE.

Dr. Adith Chinnaswamy, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of MedisimVR, presented an overview of the company’s VR capabilities and solutions, emphasizing their alignment with evolving educational needs.   

Senior faculty of DBMS-MAHE Dr. Ullas Kamath, Dr. Bincy George, Dr. Arvind Pandey, and Ms. Snigdha Mishra, who are part of the larger academic and research community driving innovation in Extended Reality at MAHE, were present on the occasion.

The formal signing of the MoU took place following the presentations, cementing a collaborative roadmap for research, development, and implementation of VR-based training modules in health sciences education.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 4th in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life, as well as for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.

Tata Tea Chakra Gold CARE Marked Tamil New Year With ‘Pudhu Aarambam’ — A Tech-Enabled Print Campaign

As Tamil Nadu came together to celebrate Puthandu, the Tamil New Year, with renewed hope and time-honoured rituals, Tata Tea Chakra Gold CARE joined in the spirit of the festival with a thoughtful and immersive campaign. Known for championing the Tamil way of showing care, the brand launched a unique initiative that blended culture, innovation, and emotional connection—reinforcing its deep-rooted bond with Tamil households.

At the heart of the campaign was a tech-enabled print innovation, rolled out in Chennai under the campaign title Pudhu Aarambam. The immersive newspaper ad featured a traditionally arranged Kani Thali—a ceremonial platter that Tamilians view first thing on Puthandu morning as a symbol of prosperity and positive beginnings. At its center lay a covered mirror, which holds deep significance in Tamil households. Traditionally, the mirror is placed alongside auspicious items like fruits, flowers, and gold—symbolizing self-reflection and hope for abundance in the new year. Through this innovation, readers were invited to scan a QR code that brought the mirror to life using webAR, revealing heartfelt customized Puthandu greetings in Tamil—a beautiful blend of heritage and technology.

Speaking about the campaign, Mr. Puneet Das, President – Packaged Beverages, India & South Asia, Tata Consumer Products, said, “Tamil Nadu has always been a priority market for us. With Puthandu being such a culturally significant festival, we wanted to celebrate it in a way that felt both meaningful and modern. This print experience allowed us to bring together innovation and tradition—just like our Tata Tea Chakra Gold CARE blend, which combines the goodness of five natural ingredients with the taste that Tamil Nadu loves.”

Kamala Venkateswaran, Sr. Vice President of .Monks, the agency that conceptualized the print innovation, added, “TCPL has always celebrated hyperlocal, and year after year, our challenge has been to find beautiful ways to connect with Tamil consumers while keeping the cultural truth intact. This year, we brought culture and technology together in a new experience. The idea was to bring a smile and happiness to your home when you woke up and had your tea with your newspaper. We hope everyone enjoyed the experience. Wishing all Puththaandu Nalvaazhththukkal!”

Tata Tea Chakra Gold CARE is a specially crafted tea that reflects the wisdom of Tamil home traditions. The blend includes Adhimadhuram, Elaichi, Ginger, Tulsi, and Brahmi—five time-tested ingredients that are part of everyday wellness practices in Tamil households. This Puthandu, the brand encouraged families to pause, reconnect, and celebrate their roots over a cup of tea that stands for care, wellness, and the Tamil way of life.

About Tata Consumer Products Limited

Tata Consumer Products Limited is a focused consumer products company uniting the principal food and beverage interests of the Tata Group under one umbrella. The Company’s portfolio of products includes tea, coffee, water, RTD, salt, pulses, spices, ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat offerings, breakfast cereals, snacks and mini meals. Tata Consumer Products is the 2nd largest branded tea company in the world. Its key beverage brands include Tata Tea, Tetley, Organic India, Eight O’Clock Coffee, Tata Coffee Grand, Himalayan Natural Mineral Water, Tata Copper+ and Tata Gluco+. Its foods portfolio includes brands such as Tata Salt, Tata Sampann, Tata Soulfull, Ching’s Secret and Smith & Jones. In India, Tata Consumer Products has a reach of over 263 million households, giving it an unparalleled ability to leverage the Tata brand in consumer products. The Company has a consolidated annual turnover of ~Rs. 15,206 Crs with operations in India and International markets. For more information,  visit www.tataconsumer.com

Toyota Kirloskar Motor Enhances Education And Healthcare Infrastructure in Raichur Under Its CSR Program

Reinforcing its commitment to quality education and holistic community development, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has taken a significant step to empower communities in Raichur district, Karnataka. As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, TKM has extended vital educational and healthcare infrastructure support to address persistent developmental challenges in Raichur, an Aspirational District identified by NITI Aayog.

Raichur continues to grapple with gaps in access to quality education and healthcare, largely due to limited infrastructure. To bridge these gaps, TKM has undertaken targeted initiatives to address the fundamental social needs, aimed at strengthening learning environments in government schools and improving maternal and child healthcare services—driving inclusive and long-term impact.

In the education sector, TKM has supported schools across the district with classroom furniture, water dispensers, and kitchen utilities to create more conducive and engaging learning spaces. These efforts have directly benefitted 66,342 students in Raichur this year, contributing to a cumulative impact of 2,63,373 students across various project locations to date.

On the healthcare front, TKM has significantly enhanced the capabilities of government hospitals by equipping the Mother & Child Center in Raichur with a wide range of critical and diagnostic medical equipment. This intervention is expected to provide the basic medical facilities in the district, thereby ensuring the facilities are accessible to the community. Enabling early detection and management of health issues, lower the risk of complicated pregnancies, and improve access to quality antenatal and postnatal care for thousands of families.

The medical support includes essential life-saving equipment such as defibrillators, ICU cots, syringe pumps, resuscitation kits, and surgical instrument sets. Diagnostic tools provided include a haematology analyser, USG scanner with Doppler and echo features, hormone analysers, ECG machines, and systems for screening auditory functions. General medical infrastructure has also been strengthened with additions like a stretcher trolley, OT trolleys, ILR, blood bag sealer, ALS ambulance, and a wheelchair.

These healthcare initiatives have benefitted over 18,000 community members in Raichur this year, taking the total cumulative health beneficiaries across project locations to 19,20,429 individuals—underscoring TKM’s ongoing dedication to building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.

Sharing his thoughts, Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer, Senior Vice President and Head State Affairs, stated, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, we believe true progress goes beyond economic milestones—it lies in uplifting the communities we serve. Guided by our philosophy of ‘Growing Together,’ our CSR efforts focus on creating sustainable impact by addressing critical local needs. In Raichur, we’ve enhanced educational infrastructure by providing essential resources like furniture, clean drinking water, and kitchen utilities to support better learning environments. Simultaneously, we’ve strengthened maternal and child healthcare by equipping the Mother & Child Center with advanced diagnostic and life-saving medical equipment, ensuring timely and quality care. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to building ‘ever-better communities’ alongside ‘ever-better cars,’ creating meaningful change today and for the future.”

TKM’s commitment is guided by its core philosophy of “growing together,” reflecting its broader vision of not only manufacturing “ever-better cars” but also fostering “ever-better communities.” With this dual focus, the company aims to drive inclusive growth and contribute to the well-being and “Happier paths Together”.

GITAM University, Bengaluru, Welcomes Sirena Technologies – Launches Robotics & AI Centre Of Excellence

GITAM (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, marked a major milestone today with the inauguration of its Robotics & Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence and the launch of a state-of-the-art R&D Centre by Sirena Technologies—the first corporate partner to be embedded within the campus. This pioneering collaboration sets the stage for impactful industry-academia partnerships, positioning GITAM as a leading force in research, innovation, and future-ready education.

The inauguration was graced by Sri Savyasachi K. Srinivas, Vice President of Engineering at Collins Aerospace, who served as the Chief Guest. Applauding GITAM's vision, he stated, “India’s engineering talent needs platforms like GITAM to grow from academic learners to real-world innovators. Such Centres of Excellence will be the catalysts for future aerospace and AI breakthroughs.”

The inauguration ceremony also included remarks by Dr. Errol D’Souza, Vice Chancellor of GITAM University, “Our collaboration with Sirena Technologies reflects GITAM’s commitment to applied, interdisciplinary learning. Together, we’re creating an ecosystem where students engage with real-world innovation and are empowered to lead in emerging industries.” 

Prof. KNS Acharya, Pro Vice Chancellor, expressed his immense delight, stating, “It is a proud moment for us to welcome Sirena Technologies as our first corporate collaborator on the Bengaluru campus. This is just the beginning of many such partnerships to come.”

Launched last year, GITAM’s Robotics & AI programme has already garnered attention for its forward-thinking, interdisciplinary curriculum. The newly inaugurated Centre of Excellence features advanced laboratories designed to support hands-on learning from the first year through to the final semester.

With the global robotics and AI market projected to exceed $500 billion by 2030, driven by applications in aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, and smart infrastructure, GITAM’s strategic investments align with emerging industry demands and aim to produce highly employable, industry-ready graduates.

Prof. Basavaraj K, Associate Dean - Core Engineering and Director of GITAM School of Technology, Bengaluru, remarked, “We are thrilled to see core engineering regaining momentum. The integration of AI and robotics with foundational engineering has opened new frontiers for our students.”

The event concluded with an expert session on aerospace innovations by Collins Aerospace, followed by internship offer distributions and lab visits. With the inauguration of this R&D Centre, GITAM University once again affirms its role as a frontrunner in future-forward education.

Mahindra Lifespaces Launches Mahindra NewHaven Next To Successful Mahindra Zen, Bengaluru

Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd., the real estate and infrastructure development arm of the Mahindra Group, has announced the launch of Mahindra NewHaven, an IGBC-certified Net Zero Energy & Waste project. The development features 70% open spaces, with bespoke 3, 3.5, and 4 BHK residences and is purposefully designed to elevate modern living with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. This project is located adjacent to the already successful Mahindra Zen on Hosur road in South Bengaluru. 

Vimalendra Singh, Chief Business Officer (Residential), Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited, said, “Bengaluru continues to be a key market for Mahindra Lifespaces, with our projects consistently receiving strong responses. Following the success of Mahindra Eden and Mahindra Zen, both of which are almost sold out, we are excited to announce the launch of Mahindra NewHaven, our fourth premium development in South Bengaluru, designed to meet the city’s evolving lifestyle aspirations.”

The project’s architectural design emphasizes natural harmony, featuring spacious homes with excellent cross-ventilation, abundant natural sunlight, and wide, expansive decks. The residences are designed to provide a serene living experience.

Mahindra NewHaven also features premium lifestyle amenities, including a 10,400 sq. ft. clubhouse with an infinity pool. Located just 1 km from Singasandra metro station and near Electronic City, the project offers excellent connectivity to IT hubs, business parks, and a thriving social infrastructure. Residents will benefit from easy access to top educational institutions, shopping centers, supermarkets, entertainment venues, and dining options, making it a truly comprehensive lifestyle destination.

About Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd.

Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited (“MLDL”) is a pan-India real estate developer. It operates its business through two verticals, namely, (i) residential projects, under the ‘Mahindra Lifespaces’ and ‘Mahindra Happinest’ brands (“Residential”); and (ii) integrated cities and industrial clusters under the ‘Mahindra World City’ and ‘Origins by Mahindra’ brands, respectively (“IC&IC”).

MLDL has also been delivering green-certified homes by Indian Green Building Council (“IGBC”), embedding sustainability as a core principle across all its developments. MLDL projects integrate energy-efficient designs, environmentally responsible materials, and resource optimization measures to reduce carbon impact. Reinforcing this commitment, MLDL has launched three Net Zero projects, namely, Mahindra Eden, Mahindra Vista and Mahindra Zen.Learn more about Mahindra Lifespaces® at www.mahindralifespaces.com

About Mahindra

Mahindra Group, has a global presence across diverse business verticals, including automotive, farm equipment, technology, financial services, real estate, hospitality, logistics, renewable energy, and aerospace and defense. Learn more about Mahindra on www.mahindra.com / Twitter and Facebook: @MahindraRise/ For updates subscribe to https://www.mahindra.com/news-room

KIMS Becomes First In India To Implement Groundbreaking Remote Surgical Training Solution In Collaboration With Medtronic

KIMS Group of Hospitals, a premier multi-specialty hospital network in South India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Medtronic, a global leader in healthcare technology to upskill young and budding surgeons on advanced surgical procedures. This partnership aims to train over 100 surgeons across KIMS hospitals in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, strengthening surgical expertise in specialties such as General Surgery, Oncology, Urology-Gynaecology, and Endoscopy. This facility will also be extended to its upcoming facilities in Thane, Mumbai and Bangalore. Under this initiative, physicians will gain access to a uniquely designed remote technology solution that facilitates real-time, interactive communication between surgeons, educators, and remote experts. This cutting-edge solution ensures high quality surgical collaboration, enabling seamless learning and training opportunities regardless of location.  The structured upskilling programs will encompass a mix of didactic sessions, hands-on experience, and observership, ensuring a holistic learning experience tailored to the specific needs of surgeons. Esteemed faculties from KIMS Group of Hospitals have been identified to conduct specialized educational workshops covering various surgical interventions.

Speaking on the collaboration, Mandeep Singh Kumar, Managing Director and Vice President of Medtronic India stated, “This partnership is a step forward in addressing critical healthcare challenges in India, where the need for skilled clinicians is paramount. Leveraging clinical expertise from KIMS Hospital and innovative training pedagogy from Medtronic, we seek to bridge gaps in surgical proficiency while enhancing patient outcomes through tailored programs. These initiatives are designed not only to refine procedural skills but also to foster a deeper understanding of value-based healthcare principles, ensuring clinicians are equipped to meet the highest standards of care.”

Dr. Bhaskar Rao Bollineni, Founder & Chairman, KIMS Group of Hospitals commented, “At KIMS, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of surgical talent by integrating technology-driven learning with clinical excellence. Our collaboration with Medtronic marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to create a robust ecosystem for surgical education. By harnessing remote training solutions and specialized modules, we aim to empower young surgeons with the skills, confidence, and global best practices needed to deliver superior patient care. This initiative aligns with our vision of advancing healthcare through continuous learning, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Medical education in India is continuously evolving, driven by changing medical guidelines and the increasing demand for structured training programs for young surgeons. Establishing meaningful partnerships for ongoing learning has become essential. Leveraging advanced technologies in a safe and controlled environment allows surgeons to enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and refine their techniques with greater efficiency ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and better healthcare delivery. With this initiative, KIMS Group of hospitals and Medtronic have joined hands to build clinical capabilities and expand access to high-quality healthcare ensuring better outcomes for the patient.

About KIMS Group of Hospitals

KIMS Hospitals is one of the largest corporate healthcare groups in India with hospitals in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Kerala providing multi-disciplinary integrated healthcare services, with a focus on tertiary and quaternary healthcare at an affordable cost. Our network of 18 hospitals and over 5500 beds is spread across Telangana (Secunderabad, Kondapur, Gachibowli, and Begumpet), Andhra Pradesh (Nellore, Rajahmundry, Srikakulam, Ongole, Vizag - 2 units, Anantapur, Guntur and Kurnool), Maharashtra (Nagpur, Nashik and Sangli) and Kerala (Kannur and Kollam). Our new units, under construction, include 2 hospitals in Bangalore and one in Mumbai.  We offer a bouquet of comprehensive healthcare services across 25 specialties including cardiac sciences, oncology, neurosciences, gastric sciences, orthopaedics, organ transplantation, renal sciences, and mother & child care.

This World Art Day, Hyundai Motor India Champions Artists As Changemakers

·         With INR 1.65 crore awarded across four seasons, ‘Hyundai Art for hope’ has supported over 150 artists and collectives, impacting 25,000+ artists nationwide

·         Bengaluru-based artists redefine inclusion with ISL-inspired visual art, trans-led installations, Yakshagana theatre, and neurodiverse digital storytelling.

Every year on April 15 the global community celebrates World Art Day, a moment to pause and reflect on the transformative and healing powers of art - as a mirror to society and a torch for progress. This UNESCO-led initiative was launched in 2019 to mark the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci - a symbol of artistic brilliance and interdisciplinary thinking.

This annual celebration consistently highlights values that form the core of Hyundai Motor India Foundation's (HMIF’s) flagship initiative ‘Hyundai Art for hope’. Inspired by Hyundai’s vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’, the initiative has championed artists as changemakers - voices that amplify endangered traditions, question norms, and reimagine inclusion. Since its inception in 2021, ‘Hyundai Art for hope’ has become a movement, touching the lives of over 25,000 artists and awarding INR 1.65 crore in grants across four seasons. On World Art Day 2025, Hyundai reaffirms its commitment to art as a force for sustainability, echoing UNESCO’s call to harness creativity for planetary and societal well-being.

The fourth season of ‘Hyundai Art for hope’ was a vibrant celebration of India’s artistic diversity. With INR 60 lakh awarded to 50 grantees - including 40 individual artists (5 with disabilities) and 10 collectives - the event showcased art as a tool for social change. Interactive workshops, roundtables on Art from Waste, and tactile exhibits for visually impaired visitors underscored Hyundai’s commitment to accessibility. The three-day festival wasn’t just an exhibition - it was a dialogue, a call to action, and a celebration of art’s power to unite.

Regional Spotlight: Artists Weaving Change Across India

Bengaluru: Breaking Barriers with Neurodiverse Art

In the bustling tech capital, five grantees redefined what inclusion and transformation look like. Alim Chandani, a deaf artist, bridged gestures and Indian Sign Language in Beyond Signs, while Gayatri Gupta (Down syndrome) dazzled with digital art (Busting Boundaries). The Aravani Art Project celebrated transgender identities through nature-inspired installations, and Yakshadeevige used Yakshagana theatre to advocate water conservation in drought-prone Tumkur.

From Delhi’s urban canvases to Karnataka’s neurodiverse ateliers, each artist’s story is a brushstroke in a larger portrait of resilience and renewal. This World Art Day, as global conversations centre around art’s role in shaping society, ‘Hyundai Art for hope’ stands tall - not as a corporate social responsibility checkbox, but as a cultural commitment.

Bengaluru Hospital Restores Hope For 40-Year-Old Man From Haryana Through A Complicated Heart Transplant Surgery

·         The patient who had end stage heart failure travelled from Haryana to Bengaluru to get this surgery done by Dr. Kumud Dhital at Apollo Seshadripuram

·         Karnataka is one of the leading states in India in terms of organ donations

A 40-year-old resident of Haryana, who had end stage heart failure, was given a new lease on life through a complicated heart transplant surgery performed at Apollo Hospital, Seshadripuram, Bengaluru.

The patient, who is a father of two and the sole breadwinner for his family, was diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) with severe bi-ventricular dysfunction, a condition where both the left and right pumping chambers of the heart fail to function properly. His condition required frequent hospital admissions for recurrent heart failure, causing a rapid decline in his quality of life. After extensive treatments and worsening symptoms, he flew down to Bengaluru with the support of a specialized medical team to get the heart transplant done by Dr. Kumud Dhital, Program & Surgical Director for Heart & Lung at Apollo Seshadripuram.

Commenting on the patient’s condition while presented at the hospital, Dr. Kumud Dhital said, “Upon arrival at Apollo Hospitals, he showed severe symptoms of advanced heart failure. He required immediate intervention, including the insertion of an Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) to stabilize his condition. Aggressive fluid management was performed to remove over 20 litres of excess fluid before he was deemed fit for a transplant.”

After a month-long wait, a suitable organ became available, and he underwent the heart transplant procedure, performed by Dr. Kumud Dhital with support from Senior Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeons Dr. Anand Subramaniyam Dr. Manoj Kumar & Dr. Prakash Ludhani, and anesthetists Dr. Pradeep Kumar and Dr. Srinivas Dhulipala. Owing to the concerted efforts of the multidisciplinary team, both the surgical procedure and post-operative recovery progressed smoothly. The patient was subsequently discharged within few weeks and returned to Sonipat, Haryana, to reunite with his family.

The patient’s brother expressed his gratitude, “It’s been an emotional journey, but seeing my brother healthy again is beyond words. We are deeply grateful to the donor family for giving my brother a second chance at life.”

While talking about the importance of organ donation, Dr. Kumud Dhital said, “this story highlights the transformative impact of organ donation on patients with end-stage organ failure. This patient’s survival was made possible by the selfless decision of a donor’s family and the coordinated efforts of donor coordination, organ registry, transplant teams, and other healthcare professionals. It also underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and participation in organ donation programs.”

Head of Apollo Hospitals Seshadripuram Mr. Uday Davda said “We Thank Jeevasarthakathe for their exceptional coordination in making organ donation a streamlined process in Karnataka.  This is what had lead the state to be awarded the second-best state for organ donations in 2023 by the central government. We can restore many lives and families if the public at large come out to donate organs.”  

SOCOMEC India And IFCCI Continue Their CSR Initiative With The Launch Of Project EMPOWERPATH

Socomec India in collaboration with Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI) has launched a game-changing CSR initiative – Project EMPOWERPATH – to uplift unserved communities. This innovative project will focus on Digital Literacy Training, Technical Skills Development, Health & Management Awareness for High-Risk Groups (FSW/HRG) and After-School Academic Support for Children of HRG & Female Sex Workers (FSW). 

As part of the three-year collaboration with IFCCI, Socomec has pledged to refurbish and renovate school buildings in Noida and Gurugram. These efforts created physical infrastructures that foster a positive and conducive learning atmosphere.

On its latest CSR initiative, Meenu Singhal, Regional Managing Director of Socomec Greater India, said, "We are happy to collaborate with IFCCI for project EMPOWERPATH - an initiative that aligns with our mission of manufacturing of UPS and energy management solutions while ensuring that our skill development programs create a workforce that meets industry demands. By providing access to these initiatives, we are not just creating job opportunities—we are transforming lives and empowering individuals to take charge of their future. Together with IFCCI, we are helping marginalized communities unlock their potential and thrive in tomorrow’s workforce.”

This project will empower 120 individuals with essential digital skills and 120 others with industry relevant technical skills to enhance employability and financial independence. EMPOWERPATH will promote well-being through behaviour change sessions, counselling, hygiene education and mental health support to 500 individuals belonging to High-Risk Groups.  After school academic support will be given to 80 children of High-Risk Groups and Female Sex Workers, strengthening their educational foundations.

“At Socomec, we are deeply committed to building stronger, more inclusive communities,” said Nida Khanam, Head of Human Resources at Socomec Greater India. “Through our partnership with IFCCI, the EMPOWERPATH initiative focuses on equipping individuals with the tools they need to thrive—whether it’s through digital literacy, technical skill development, or academic support for children from high-risk groups. We’re also prioritizing the health and well-being of High-Risk Groups by addressing mental health, hygiene, and behavior change. With over 800 individuals set to be impacted in Dwarka and Najafgarh, this is a meaningful step towards sustainable, community-led progress—and we look forward to expanding this initiative to other regions in the near future.”

Ms. Payal S. Kanwar, Director General, Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI), said: “We are delighted to partner with Socomec on the EMPOWERPATH project, supporting education for children of High-Risk Groups, promoting health awareness, and fostering youth skill development with our NGO partner, Indian Society for Applied Research & Development (ISARD). Aligned with key UN SDGs, this initiative empowers underserved communities, creating opportunities for a brighter future.”

Together, Socomec and IFCCI are equipping individuals with essential skills, health awareness, and educational support, bridging critical gaps and preparing them for sustainable careers in an evolving job market.

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Launches New 2025 Dio 125 ‘Dio Wanna Have Fun?’

Continuing its legacy of customer-centric offerings, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) today introduced the new OBD2B compliant Dio 125. Packed with bold aesthetics and advanced features, the prices of the new 2025 Honda Dio 125 start at Rs. 96,749 (ex-showroom Pune).

Introducing the OBD2B Dio 125, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “For over 21 years, the Dio has been an iconic name in the Indian market, standing as a symbol of style, performance, and trust. It has consistently been the first choice for customers looking for a trendy and reliable moto-scooter. With the launch of the new OBD2B Dio 125, we are excited to take forward its iconic legacy, keeping the core concept of moto-scooter intact, with added value and excitement for our customers.”

Commenting on this announcement, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are ecstatic to introduce the new OBD2B version of Dio 125 – a scooter that has resonated with young India for years. With its refreshed graphics, advanced TFT display, and enhanced connectivity features, the new Dio 125 is designed to meet the evolving aspirations of today’s customers. True to its tagline, ‘Dio Wanna Have Fun?’, this moto scooter has always been a popular choice among India's younger generation, and this update will further strengthen its position in the segment.”

New Dio 125: Advanced Features and New Colours

The Dio 125 now comes with vibrant, refreshed graphics and striking colour schemes that amplify its funky and youthful appeal. It boasts a host of new advancements designed to elevate the riding experience of customers. At the heart of this upgrade is a 123.92cc, single-cylinder PGM-Fi engine that is now OBD2B compliant. It develops 6.11 kW of power and 10.5 Nm of torque. This moto-scooter is also equipped with an advanced Idling stop system which enhances fuel efficiency, aligning with Honda’s sustainable philosophy.

In terms of features, the Dio 125 sports a new 4.2-inch TFT display with mileage indicators, trip meter, Eco indicator, and range (distance to empty). It is compatible with Honda RoadSync app, enabling functions like navigation and call/message alerts, allowing riders to stay connected while on the move. The Dio 125 also comes equipped with a Smart key and a USB Type-C charging port, ensuring convenience for riders to charge their devices on the go.

Standing true to the trust reposed by millions of customers over the years in brand Dio, the Dio 125 retains its iconic silhouette, enhancing its visual appeal. It will be offered in two variants, DLX and H-Smart, with five colour options on sale. They are – Mat Marvel Blue Metallic, Pearl Deep Ground Gray, Pearl Sports Yellow, Pearl Igneous Black, and Imperial Red.     

New Dio 125: Price and Availability

The prices of the new 2025 Honda Dio 125 start at Rs. 96,749, ex-showroom Pune. It is now available at HMSI dealerships across India.