Saturday, August 2, 2025

ICL Fincorp's New NCD Issue Opens On 31st July 2025, Offering Effective Yield Upto 12.62%


ICL Fincorp is proud to announce the launch of its latest public issue of Secured Redeemable Non-Convertible Debentures (NCDs), opening on 31st July 2025. With an effective yield of up to 12.62%, this offering presents an attractive and secure investment opportunity for those seeking flexible tenures.

Following the remarkable response to our previous NCD issues, which were oversubscribed, we are truly honoured by the trust and confidence placed in us by our valued investors. This continued support inspires us to deliver even more robust financial solutions tailored to the evolving needs of our customers.

The NCD issue will remain open until 13th August 2025 and is rated CRISIL BBB- /STABLE. Each NCD carries a face value of ₹1,000, and the issue offers 10 schemes with ten options (10 ISINs), with interest rates ranging from 10.50% to 12.00%. The minimum application amount is ₹10,000, making it accessible to a broad spectrum of investors.

Proceeds from this issue will be strategically deployed to support ICL Fincorp’s growth initiatives and further enhance the quality of services offered to our customers and stakeholders across India. This step reaffirms our commitment to delivering reliable, innovative and customer-centric financial solutions.

With a legacy of 34 years, ICL Fincorp continues to serve as a trusted financial partner under the visionary leadership of CMD, Adv. K.G. Anilkumar. Our growing presence spans 9 states – Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat, and West Bengal – as we move steadily towards establishing a pan-India footprint. The acquisition of Salem Erode Investments, a BSE-listed NBFC with a 93-year history in Tamil Nadu, has further reinforced our position in the financial sector.

 ICL Fincorp offers a comprehensive portfolio of services, including Gold Loans, Hire Purchase Loans and Business Loans. The ICL Group has also diversified into sectors such as travel, fashion, diagnostics and charitable initiatives.

Under the joint leadership of CMD Adv. K.G. Anil Kumar and Mrs. Uma Anilkumar, Whole-time Director & CEO, ICL Fincorp, continues to operate in compliance with the Reserve Bank of India’s standards, while earning the enduring trust of customers.

As we unveil this new NCD issue, we warmly invite you to be a part of our journey towards financial growth, security and long-term value.

Curefoods’ CakeZone Launches Boba Jar Cakes—A Fusion Of Flavour, Texture, And Innovation

  

CakeZone’s Boba Jar Cakes combine sponge cake, cream, and real boba pearls in a single dessert jar

 

CakeZone, a brand which is a part of Curefoods portfolio launched its newest Boba Jar Cakes—a delightful new range that blends the richness of jar cakes with the chewy surprise of boba pearls.

 

The launch range includes five vibrant and indulgent flavours, Rasmalai Twist Boba Jar Cake brings together soft cake, fragrant Rasmalai, and chewy boba pearls, delivering a fusion of traditional Indian sweetness with a fun, modern twist. Additionally, Tropical Mango Boba Jar Cake offers a refreshing escape with moist mango cake, luscious mango cream, and juicy boba pearls.

 


Furthermore, for lovers of rich, smooth textures, the Silky Butterscotch Boba Jar Cake combines decadent butterscotch cake with rich caramel cream and chewy boba. Those who can't get enough of mango will love the Mango Overload Boba Bliss, packed with mango chunks, whipped cream, cake layers, and mango-filled boba. Lastly, the Pineapple Punch Boba Jar Cake delivers a zesty explosion of pineapple cake, tangy cream, and tropical boba pearls for a light, fruity experience.

 

Ankit Nagori, Chief Executive Officer, Curefoods, said, “At Curefoods, we’re always aiming to push boundaries of dessert innovation while staying rooted in Indian flavour preferences. The Boba Jar Cake range is a fun, fresh, and indulgent take on modern snacking. We’re thrilled to bring a one-of-a-kind experience to our customers that blends familiarity with surprise in every spoonful.”

 

The Boba Jar Cake range is now available online via Swiggy and Zomato in Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Chandigarh, and Hyderabad, and will also be sold at select CakeZone outlets. Whether you're a fan of Indian mithai or contemporary desserts, this new launch is giving something exciting for everyone.

 

About Curefoods:


Curefoods is a Bangalore-based house of food and beverage brands, founded by Ankit Nagori in 2020. It houses brands such as Kitchens of EatFit, CakeZone, Nomad Pizza, Sharief Bhai, Olio Pizza, Frozen Bottle, Krispy Kreme, Arambam, and more. For additional information, visit https://curefoods.in.

GoK Hosts ‘Bridge To Bengaluru’: A High-Level Diplomatic Dialogue In New Delhi Strengthening Global Partnerships Ahead Of BTS 2025


Highlights:

  • Karnataka hosted ‘Bridge to Bengaluru’ diplomatic dialogue in Delhi

  • Dialogue featured CM, DCM, and IT Minister of Karnataka

  • Programme attended by Ambassadors & High Commissioners  from 35+ countries

  • Fosters international collaboration in tech, innovation, and investment

  • Event served as a curtain-raiser to BTS 2025 in Bengaluru to the International fraternity

New Delhi, August 1, 2025: The Government of Karnataka organized an exclusive high-level diplomatic dialogue titled ‘Bridge to Bengaluru’ on Friday, August 1, 2025, at the ITC Maurya, New Delhi. The programme aimed at strengthening international collaboration in innovation, technology, and investment, ahead of Karnataka’s flagship technology event- Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025, to be held from 18-20 November, 2025 at BIEC, Bengaluru.

The event brought together Ambassadors, High Commissioners and senior diplomatic representatives of more than 60 countries, including Singapore, Finland, Denmark, USA, UK, Australia, Georgia, Luxembourg, Latvia, Chile, Indonesia, Italy, Zimbabwe, Seychelles, Egypt, Jamaica, Argentina, Vietnam,  Poland, Tajikistan, Cambodia, Tunisia, Guatemala, Iran, Oman, Lesotho, Gabon, Namibia, Bahrain, Kazakhstan, Fiji, Republic of Cuba, Jordan, Sri Lanka, Gambia, Maldives and Venezuela attended the event for a meaningful exchange with the leadership of Government of Karnataka.

The ‘Bridge to Bengaluru’ initiative is part of the state’s continued effort to expand its Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) network, to foster long-term international cooperation in science, technology, innovation, and investment. Launched in 2017 under the Karnataka Unit for International Co-operation (KUIC), the GIA network has expanded from 10 countries in 2018 to over 35 nations by 2025.

Through the GIA platform, Karnataka focuses on technology knowledge sharing and innovation exchange by designing structured programs in collaboration with major innovation hubs around the world. These initiatives are supported by well-curated partnerships and MoUs with more than 12 countries, targeting specific sectors. The partnerships are primarily designed to facilitate startup exchanges, soft-landing opportunities and both inbound and outbound market access programs.

Additionally, there is a government-to-government engagement model built around the strengths and requirements of each ecosystem. GIA also supports partnerships between Centres of Excellence, academic institutions, and research organizations in the state and their counterparts in partner countries.

This year alone, under this framework, Karnataka hosted the President of Chile along with an industry delegation, as well as the Senator of Berlin, in Karnataka.

The dialogue was graced by Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka and Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Biotechnology, and RDPR.

Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka, presented an overview of the Department’s Global Innovation Alliance initiative, and of the upcoming Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025. Also present was Shri Rahul Sankanur, IAS Managing Director, Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka and Shri Daljeet Kumar, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Department of E, IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka. A special address was delivered by Dr. A.S. Kiran Kumar, Former Secretary, and Department of Space.

In his address, Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka said, “Karnataka welcomes the world not just as investors, but as partners. We believe global relationships are built on shared trust, common goals, and mutual benefit. Our sectoral policies across ESDM, AVGC, Green Hydrogen, Tourism, Electric Mobility, and Renewables are designed to create a robust ecosystem for responsible and resilient growth. Whether it is through technology, tourism, trade, or talent, we see global engagement not as an option, but as a pathway to shared progress.”

Echoing Hon’ble Chief Minister’s sentiments, Shri D. K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka said, “Bengaluru’s strength lies not just in its infrastructure or policy incentives, it lies in its people. With the highest concentration of engineering, science, and design talent in India, the city is now ranked among the top 5 AI talent cities globally, second only to San Francisco in emerging AI hubs. From Centres of Excellence in AI to a growing semiconductor ecosystem, we are building the deep tech capital of South Asia, powered by strategic partnerships and government-backed innovation.”

In his address, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology; RDPR, Govt. of Karnataka, emphasized that Karnataka is global by design. “Our innovation ecosystem thrives on intent, inclusion, and impact. Through platforms like the Global Innovation Alliance and Bengaluru Tech Summit, we are forging long-term partnerships that transcend borders. With BTS 2025, we invite the world to co-create solutions, scale ideas, and shape a shared future. Bridge to Bengaluru is not just a dialogue, it’s a doorway to collaboration, investment and collective progress." he added.

BTS 2025 will be held from November 18–20 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), a world-class, eco-conscious venue that enables the summit to scale significantly. This edition will bring together 1,00,000+ attendees, including 20,000+ startup founders, 1,000+ investors, 1,200+ exhibitors, and participants from 60+ countries and all Indian states and UTs.

Under the theme ‘Futurise’, the conference will host 10 curated tracks, ranging from DeepTech, Electro-Semicon, and Biotech to emerging areas like AI Universe, Finverse, Spacetech, and climate-focused My Planet My Future. The Future Makers Conclave will showcase over 2,000 founders and global changemakers.

The multi-pavilion Exhibition will spotlight innovations across sectors with increased global participation. The Startup Springboard will feature investor pitching, mentoring clinics, thematic sessions, and the Startup Pavilion, offering growth-stage startups critical visibility and investor access.

Highlight programmes include Rural IT Quiz, Bio Quiz, Exhibitor Awards, and the Global Leaders Reception.

Visit www.bengalurutechsummit.com for more information.

Friday, August 1, 2025

HackSky 2025: Kaspersky And MIT Bengaluru Announce Winners Of Pan-India’s Cybersecurity Hackathon



Kaspersky, the global cybersecurity and digital privacy company, in partnership with the Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) Bengaluru, MAHE, has successfully concluded HackSky 2025, India’s leading student-driven cybersecurity hackathon. After an intense 48-hour contest showcasing the country’s most promising cybersecurity talent, Advithiya Duddu, AdityaJemshetty, Rushil Bakori from Team Technopaths emerged victorious, surpassing more than 600 competing teams from academic institutions nationwide.

Reflecting on their first hackathon win, Advithiya Duddu from the winning team shares, “Winning our first hackathon was truly rewarding and a special moment for us. We learned so much, and we’re excited about the potential of building and deploying our product because it has so many real-world applications. The problem statements from Kaspersky were thought-provoking and really pushed us to think creatively. Our team’s key message is to never lose hope. Even after several hackathons where we didn’t win, we gave it one more try, and it paid off."

Held in 48 hours, HackSky 2025 transformed the MIT Bengaluru campus into a hub of innovation, with 60 shortlisted teams competing in a high-energy finale. Participants tackled real-world cybersecurity challenges across critical tracks.

The Valedictory Ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Mr. Saurabh Sharma (Lead Security Researcher, GReAT, Kaspersky), Guest of Honor Mr. Vaibhav Pathak (Solution Architect – Asia Pacific, Kaspersky), along with Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan (Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE Bengaluru), Prof. (Dr.) Raghavendra Prabhu P (Deputy Registrar & Director-Administration, MAHE Bengaluru), Prof. (Dr.) Iven Jose (Director, MIT Bengaluru), Prof. (Dr.) Dayananda P (Dean, SoCE, MIT Bengaluru), and Ms. Trishia Octaviano (Senior Manager, Cybersecurity Education, Asia-Pacific, Kaspersky), reflecting strong industry-academia collaboration.

The winning team, Team Technopaths, received a grand prize of ₹1,00,000 from MAHE, up to 2,500 USD worth of expert training course from Kaspersky, exclusive mentorship opportunities with Kaspersky experts, and premium corporate merchandise.

“From bold ideas to breakthrough solutions, HackSky 2025 showcased the brilliance, passion, and determination of India’s young cybersecurity talent. The energy and ingenuity we witnessed this week was truly exceptional. It’s inspiring to see such energy focused on securing our digital tomorrow, and Kaspersky is proud to be part of that journey,” comments Trishia Octaviano Senior Manager, Cybersecurity Education for Asia-Pacific at Kaspersky.

“HackSky 2025 reflects our commitment to nurturing future-ready talent. Collaborating with Kaspersky allowed us to give students hands-on experience in tackling real-world cyber threats, a vital step in building a secure digital future,” says Dr. Iven Jose, Director, Manipal Institute of Technology, Bengaluru, MAHE.

HackSky 2025 not only provided hands-on experience but also strengthened the bridge between academia and industry, nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals equipped to tackle evolving global threats.

Through initiatives like HackSky, Kaspersky continues its commitment to building a secure digital future, encouraging students and young professionals to engage in hackathons, simulations, and upskilling programs that combine technical rigor with practical learning.

To learn more about Kaspersky’s program for academic institutions, visit https://academy.kaspersky.com/

Bosch Wants To Grow Significantly Faster Than The Market In The Heating, Ventilation, And Cooling Sector



 Successfully completed: the largest acquisition in the company’s history

 ⯈ The Home Comfort division almost doubles to more than eight billion euros in sales and over 25,000 associates.

⯈ Increasing demand for cooling ensures a surge in demand.

⯈ Stefan Hartung: “Bosch is moving up to the Champions League in the heating,

ventilation, and air conditioning solutions business.”

⯈ Christian Fischer: “The current acquisition complements our portfolio perfectly.”

⯈ Frank Meyer: “We want to help shape this market with energy-efficient solutions.”

 

The Bosch Group reaches the next milestone in its corporate strategy 2030 and is consistently focusing on growth. The company has successfully completed the largest acquisition in its history. The acquisition of the residential and light commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) business from Johnson Controls and the acquisition of the Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning joint venture were completed as scheduled on July 31. The contracts were signed roughly one year ago.

“With the largest acquisition in our company history, we are accelerating our growth, expanding our global footprint, and balancing our business by strengthening our energy and building technology – this makes Bosch more powerful and robust, in line with our corporate strategy 2030,” says Stefan Hartung, chairman of the Bosch board of management. The purchase price of 8 billion U.S. dollars (7.4 billion euros) is subject to customary adjustments.

 

With the acquisition, the Bosch Home Comfort division almost doubles in size to over 25,000 associates and more than eight billion euros in sales. Bosch is thus significantly expanding its presence, especially in America and Asia, and becoming one of the largest suppliers in the market for heating, ventilation, and cooling of residential and small commercial buildings worldwide. “The entire HVAC industry is in a state of upheaval, and the market and technologies are changing. Bosch is systematically taking advantage.

Tata Motors signs MoU With Green Energy Mobility Solutions To Supply 100 Magna EV Intercity Coaches

 


Showcases advanced mobility solutions at Passenger Vehicle Expo 2.0

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Green Energy Mobility Solutions Pvt. Ltd (GEMS), the electric mobility arm promoted by Universal Bus Services (UBS) to supply 100 state-of-the-art Magna EV intercity coaches. The signing took place at Passenger Vehicle Expo 2.0 in Chennai, where Tata Motors is showcasing its latest commercial passenger mobility solutions, including the all-electric Magna EV and the LPO 1822, designed for superior performance, exceptional passenger comfort and best-in-class total cost of ownership.

 

Universal Bus Services is a prominent premium intercity travel brand in South India, known for its innovation, reliability, and customer-centric services. Its newly incorporated EV arm, Green Energy Mobility Solutions, is driving UBS’ transition to sustainable mobility through the deployment of advanced electric buses and charging infrastructure. The MoU was signed in the presence of Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Tamil Nadu, along with delegates from Government of Tamil Nadu and members of the All Omni Bus Owners Association (AOBOA).

 

Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Tamil Nadu, said, “Tamil Nadu continues to lead the way in automotive and clean mobility innovation. Tata Motors’ partnership with Universal Bus Services to supply intercity electric buses is a significant step towards greener and safer public transportation. This initiative directly benefits the people of Tamil Nadu by offering cleaner travel options and affirms our commitment to building a future-ready, sustainable transport ecosystem.”

 

Signing the MoU,  Mr. Sunil Kumar Ravindran, Managing Partner, Universal Bus Services, and Director, Green Energy Mobility Solutions, said, "Our longstanding association with Tata Motors has been built on trust. This MoU marks a significant milestone as we transition to electric intercity travel with the Magna EV coaches. These buses promise quieter, more comfortable journeys and an enhanced passenger experience—perfectly suited for long-distance routes. With reduced operating costs and zero emissions, this fleet will not only boost our efficiency but also reinforce our commitment to sustainable mobility."

 

Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Mr. Anand S, Vice President and Head – Commercial Passenger Vehicle Business, Tata Motors, said, "This MoU with UBS is a landmark moment in our journey to transform intercity transportation. The Magna EV, developed through extensive customer feedback and rigorous testing, is designed to redefine long-distance travel in India. We are confident it will set new standards in comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. As India’s leading provider of electric mass mobility solutions, Tata Motors remains committed to driving the future of clean and connected transportation."

 

The Tata Magna EV coach is a fully-electric intercity bus with up to 300km range on a single charge. It offers a 44-seater configuration designed for long-distance comfort. Passenger convenience and safety is enhanced through ergonomic seats, Electronic Braking System (EBS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

Tata Motors leads India’s electric bus segment with a diverse portfolio that includes the Starbus EV and Ultra EV for intra-city and the Magna EV for intercity travel. With over 3,600 electric buses operational in 11 cities, the fleet has cumulatively clocked a distance of over 34 crore kilometres with an uptime of over 95%. These buses are equipped with Fleet Edge, Tata Motors’ connected vehicle platform that enables real-time diagnostics, tracking and fleet optimisation.

 

About Tata Motors:

Part of the USD 165 billion Tata group, Tata Motors Limited (BSE: 500570; NSE: TATAMOTORS), a USD 52 billion organization, is a leading global automobile manufacturer of cars, utility vehicles, pick-ups,  trucks, and buses, offering an extensive range of integrated, smart, and e-mobility solutions. With ‘Connecting Aspirations’ at the core of its brand promise, Tata Motors is India’s market leader in commercial vehicles and ranks among the top three in the passenger vehicles market.

 

Tata Motors strives to bring new products that captivate the imagination of GenNext customers, fuelled by state-of-the-art design and R&D centres located in India, the UK, the US, Italy, and South Korea. By focusing on engineering and tech- enabled automotive solutions catering to the future of mobility, the company’s innovation efforts are focused on developing pioneering technologies that are both sustainable and suited to the evolving market and customer aspirations. The company is pioneering India's Electric Vehicle (EV) transition and driving the shift towards sustainable mobility solutions by developing a tailored product strategy, leveraging the synergy between Group companies and playing an active role in liaising with the Government of India in developing the policy framework.

 

With operations in India, UK, South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia, Tata Motors markets its vehicles in Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the SAARC countries. As of March 31, 2025, Tata Motors’ operations include 93 consolidated subsidiaries, two joint operations, four joint ventures, and numerous equity-accounted associates, including their subsidiaries, over which the company exercises significant influence.

Fairfield By Marriott Brings Beauty Of Simplicity To Jaipur With The Opening Of Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road

 


* With warm hospitality, modern comfort, the new Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road will cater to travellers seeking dependable, value-driven stays

 Fairfield by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, proudly announces the opening of Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road. Strategically located in the centre of the city, Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road brings a refreshing blend of modern comfort and simple design aesthetics to Jaipur. The hotel is ideally located for guests to immerse themselves in Jaipur’s rich cultural tapestry, offering convenient access to iconic landmarks such as the historic Hawa Mahal, the grand Amer Fort, and the elegant City Palace. For those eager to explore the city, vibrant bazaars, authentic local eateries, and centuries-old architectural gems are in the vicinity; each reflecting the royal heritage and colorful spirit that define Jaipur. The hotel is conveniently situated 6kms from Jaipur International Airport and 8kms from the Jaipur Railway station, making a perfect base for business and leisure travellers.

 

“Fairfield by Marriott is one of the fastest-growing brands in our select-service portfolio and its resonance in India is both organic and intentional. With the launch of Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road, we are not only strengthening our footprint in a city that holds enduring appeal for both domestic and international travellers—we’re also deepening our presence in high-potential secondary markets across the country. We are excited about the opportunity to bring Fairfield by Marriott’s simple, seamless, warm and inviting experience to more destinations in the country,” said Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International.

 

The hotel features 115 spacious, modern and well-equipped rooms with a focus on simplicity and comfort, offering plush bedding, functional workspaces, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Each room offers stunning views overlooking the vast cityscape of Jaipur. The hotel’s public spaces evoke warm hospitality, a signature of the Fairfield by Marriott brand, featuring a modern and calm aesthetic with open layouts, multifunctional spaces and natural light. Guests can enjoy a well-rounded dining experience at Vista 20, an all-day dining restaurant serving a thoughtfully curated selection of international and local cuisines. Perched on the 20th floor, the restaurant offers sweeping, picturesque views of the Jaipur cityscape, providing the perfect backdrop for any meal. Complementing the dining experience is a well-stocked bar, ideal for unwinding with a drink after a day of meetings or exploring the city. For those looking to maintain their fitness routine while traveling, the hotel offers a state-of-the-art fitness centre. The hotel also boasts a spacious, pillar-less ballroom, spanning 3,000 square feet, with an additional pre-function area of 1,000 square feet. With its flexible event spaces, Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road will cater to large corporate events, meetings, weddings, and special occasions in Jaipur.

 

“We are thrilled to welcome guests to Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road, where they can immerse themselves in the brand’s signature warmth and enjoy a seamless stay in one of Jaipur’s most vibrant and culturally rich locations,” said Gautam Chhabra Hotel Manager, Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road. “Whether you're here for business, a wedding celebration, or to discover the fascinating heritage of the city, our hotel offers the ideal blend of comfort, simplicity and convenience for an unforgettable experience.”

 

Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road is designed to offer today’s traveler just what they need—thoughtful comfort, intuitive service, and a sense of place. With its central location, contemporary amenities, and commitment to delivering a seamless and welcoming experience, the hotel is well positioned to become the preferred choice for guests seeking dependable hospitality in the heart of the Pink City.


Picture Caption: L-R: Mrs. Susheela Jain, Chairperson, Sankalp Buildmart Pvt. Ltd. Ms. Seema Jain & Mr. Vikas Jain, Managing Director, Sankalp Buildmart Pvt. Ltd. Mr. Gautam Chhabra, Hotel Manager, Fairfield by Marriott Jaipur Tonk Road, Mr. Arun Kumar, Market Vice President - North India, Nepal, Bhutan, Marriott International & Family.


2025 MT-15 Version 2.0 Launched With Tech Upgrades & Exciting New Colours

 


*New tech upgrade includes Colour TFT Screen with Turn-by-Turn Navigation

*Available in 3 new colour options- Ice Storm, Vivid Violet Metallic & Metallic Silver Cyan 

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd., under its popular ‘The Call of the Blue’ brand campaign, announces the launch of the new 2025 Yamaha MT-15 Version 2.0 in India. The motorcycle will be available in two variants at a starting price of INR 1.69 lakh (Ex-Showroom, Delhi).

 

The 2025 MT-15 Version 2 DLX receives a significant tech upgrade with the introduction of a colour TFT display offering Turn-by-Turn Navigation. Riders will benefit from the Bluetooth connectivity feature via Yamaha’s Y-Connect Mobile App that has been upgraded in the latest MT-15. It seamlessly enables access to a host of features through the app, including Maintenance Recommendations, Parking Location, Fuel Consumption, Malfunction Alerts, Revs Dashboard, and a unique Rider Ranking system.

 

Adding to the appeal, the new MT-15 Version 2 DLX now comes in two new youthful and urban colour options — Ice Storm, a popular MT Series shade globally, now making its India debut, and Vivid Violet Metallic, along with the existing Metallic Black. The standard variant also gets a bold new Metallic Silver Cyan, reinforcing the MT’s dynamic and aggressive street presence.

 

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Itaru Otani, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies said, “The MT-15 Version 2.0 has carved a strong identity in the street-naked segment with its aggressive styling, performance-oriented engineering, and everyday versatility. Ever since we introduced the colour TFT Display with Turn-By-Turn Navigation feature on the popular R15M, we received consistent demand from MT-15 customers for similar advancements. The 2025 update reflects our commitment to addressing these expectations—with advanced features and new youthful colours that enhance both visual appeal and rider engagement. With these updates, Yamaha continues to deliver motorcycles that resonate with young, dynamic riders seeking a balance of thrill and practicality.”

 

Engineered for riders who demand a balance of performance and everyday practicality, the 2025 MT-15 Version 2.0 features a liquid-cooled, 155cc fuel-injected engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), delivering 18.4 PS at 10,000 rpm and 14.1 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. The 6-speed gearbox with Assist & Slipper Clutch ensures smooth shifting and reduced wheel hop during aggressive downshifts. The Traction Control System further boosts rider confidence on varied surfaces.

 

Backing its muscular streetfighter stance is a MotoGP-inspired aluminium swingarm that enhances stability and handling, especially under cornering and braking. Its patented Delta Box frame and lightweight mass of 141 kgs  add to its agility and control. With this latest upgrade, the Yamaha MT-15 Version 2.0 continues to push the boundaries of the street-naked category — blending performance, technology, and style in a way that reflects the spirit of ‘The Call of the Blue’.


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 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-R3 (321cc), MT-03 (321cc), YZF-R15 V4 (155cc), YZF-R15S V3 (155cc),  MT-15 V2 (155cc); FZS-Fi Hybrid (149cc), FZS-Fi (149cc), FZ-X Hybrid (149cc), FZ-X (149cc), AEROX Version S (155cc) and hybrid scooters like Fascino 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR 125 FI Hybrid (125cc), Ray ZR Street Rally 125 FI Hybrid (125cc).

PhonePe Launches 'Offline Partner Program' To Empower The Merchant Ecosystem


 The program offers customised referral commissions to merchants

PhonePe, today, announced the launch of its 'Offline Partner Program', a strategic initiative designed to strengthen India's merchant ecosystem through service providers. This program enables service providers, including those offering Point of Sale (POS) billing software, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, Vending Machines, and Self-Serving Kiosks, to refer PhonePe's integrated solutions to their clients and earn customised commissions.

Service providers (partners) joining the program can showcase a complete billing and integrated payments solutions offering to their merchants (clients), positioning themselves as growth partners who understand their operational needs. This pairing will help their merchants simplify payment management, making store operations much smoother. It will also play a role in increasing the partner’s credibility as a business ally.

Merchants can go live with PhonePe's integrated solutions within hours, along with their billing software, ensuring they provide their customers with a smooth payment experience. The suite includes Integrated POS devices, Dynamic QRs that generate unique codes per transaction, Payment Links for SMS-based collections, etc. These solutions help merchants ensure error-free and fraud-free transactions, smoother payment collection, validation, and reconciliation when integrated with billing software. A wide set of merchants, such as pharmacies, supermarkets, restaurants, apparel, and electronics, among many others, can find the combination beneficial.

To join the program, service providers can visit the Offline Partner Program page or send an email to offlinepartner-support@phonepe.com. Following registration, a PhonePe representative will assist with the onboarding process. By joining the program, partners get an opportunity to earn customised commissions while helping the large merchant ecosystem to adopt integrated digital payment solutions. 

About PhonePe:

PhonePe Limited (Formerly PhonePe Private Limited) is one of India’s leading fintech companies. Headquartered in India, its flagship product, the PhonePe digital payments app, was launched in Aug 2016. As of June 2025, PhonePe has over 63 Crore (630 Million) registered users and a digital payments acceptance network spread across over 4 Crore (40+ million) merchants. PhonePe also processes over 34 Crore (340+ Million) transactions daily with an Annualized Total Payment Value (TPV) of over INR 150 lakh crore.

PhonePe’s portfolio of businesses includes the distribution of financial products (Insurance, Lending, and Wealth) as well as new consumer tech businesses (Pincode - hyperlocal e-commerce and Indus AppStore – Localized App Store for the Android ecosystem) in India, which are aligned with the company’s vision to offer every Indian an equal opportunity to accelerate their progress by unlocking the flow of money and access to services.