Saturday, August 9, 2025

Five EV Scooters That Make’s The Perfect Raksha Bandhan Gift For Your Siblings


This Raksha Bandhan, celebrate the bond with a gift that’s thoughtful, stylish, and future-ready, an electric scooter for your sister. Whether she’s commuting to work, heading out with friends, or just enjoying a solo ride, an EV scooter offers her the perfect mix of independence, convenience, and sustainability. It’s more than just a ride it’s a gesture that says you care for her safety, comfort, and the planet. This year, tie the thread of love with something that truly moves her literally and meaningfully.

Zelio Eeva     Price: Rs. 69,000

The Zelio Eeva is crafted specifically for urban riders seeking a smart, affordable, and eco-conscious low-speed electric scooter. It’s powered by a 250 W BLDC motor paired with battery options ranging from 60 V to 72 V (gel or lithiumion), offering a range between approximately 60 km and up to 120 km per charge, depending on the variant, and charges in 4-10 hours based on battery type. This scooter is ideal for students, gig workers, or novice riders navigating city streets. Packed with practical features, it includes reverse gear, parking switch, central locking with antitheft alarm, USB charging port, digital speedometer, and underseat storageall adding to easeofuse and security.

 Odysse Hy-Fy            Price: Rs. 42,000/-

The Odysse HyFy is designed with city commuters in mind, offering a smart, affordable, and eco-conscious solution to urban mobility. This low-speed electric scooter is not only budget friendly but also features a 250W motor paired with either a 48V or 60V battery configuration, enabling a top speed with a top speed suitable for navigating city streets safely and efficiently. The HyFy is engineered to provide maximum ease of use, with thoughtful additions like large boot space, cruise control and various modes like city drive, reverse ride, and parking modes, giving riders complete control in any situation. Whether you're heading to work or running daily errands, HyFy ensures a smooth and confident ride.

Kinetic Green Zing           Price: Rs. 76,000/

The Kinetic Green Zing is made for urban riders seeking a smart, stylish, and eco-conscious ride. It houses a 250 W BLDC motor paired with a 1.4 kWh or 1.7 kWh lithiumion battery (Big B variant), delivering a range of 70 km and 100 km per charge, respectively, with a modest charging time of 3-4 hours. With a top speed of 25 km/h, the Zing skirts the need for a driving license or vehicle registration in many cities, simplifying daily commutes. Designed with urban practicality in mind, the Zing features a fully digital instrument cluster, cruise control, USB charging port, and a remote key system offering keyless start, anti-theft alarm, and “locate my scooter” functionality.

 Odysse Racer Neo   Price: Rs. 52,000/-

The Odysse Racer Neo is built for modern riders who value performance, style, and sustainability in their everyday commute. With a top speed of 25 km/h and an impressive range of up to 115 km per charge, this low-speed electric scooter combines power efficiency with long-lasting convenience. Powered by advanced Graphene and Lithium-ion battery options, the Racer Neo ensures a dependable ride with a charging time of just 4-8 hours. Designed to elevate urban mobility, it comes equipped with smart features like cruise control, adequate boot space, a LED digital meter, keyless start/stop, USB charging port, and versatile riding modes including City, Reverse, and Parking. Its sleek design is complemented by five dynamic color options: Fiery Red, Lunar White, Titanium Grey, Pine Green, and Light Cyan, making it a perfect expression of personal style and smart mobility.

Ampere Reo                Price: Rs. 59,900/-

The Ampere Reo is a smart and practical choice for everyday city travel, combining affordability with essential electric mobility features. Powered by a 250W motor and a lead-acid or lithium-ion battery, it offers a smooth ride with a top speed of 25 km/h makes perfect for navigating busy streets with ease. With features like a digital display, USB charging port, and comfortable seating, the Reo is built for convenience and reliability. Whether it’s daily commutes or short errands, the Ampere Reo delivers a hassle-free and eco-friendly ride.

Publications Division Launches Chhota Bheem Comic Series To Boost Indian Content Creation


Initiative Aligns with Government’s Vision to Strengthen Indian Content Creation Across Books, Animation, Films, and Digital Platforms 

Publications Division, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting unveiled the latest Chhota Bheem comic series, reaffirming its commitment to promoting Indian content creation and bringing culturally rooted narratives to young readers. The launch event featured a discussion on the creative journey and themes of Chhota Bheem, one of India’s most iconic children’s characters.  

Speaking on the occasion, Principal Director General, Publications Division, Shri Bhupendra Kainthola, said: “The stories we tell, especially to our children, should have an Indian connection. In a land like ours where our grandparents told bedside stories with Indian characters, Publications Division cannot but look at those storytelling traditions. The more we talk about them in the mother tongue, the more rooted would be the growth story of our new generation. As Indian stories leave a message of values and courage, they ought to reach all corners.” 

Developed in collaboration with Green Gold Animation Pvt. Ltd., the comic series follows the adventures of Bheem, a brave and kind-hearted boy in the fictional kingdom of Dholakpur. Known for his extraordinary strength, Bheem embodies friendship, courage, teamwork, and moral values inspired by Indian culture and folklore.

Shri Rajiv Chilaka, Founder and CEO of Green Gold Animation Pvt. Ltd., said, “The Government of India has been actively promoting Indian content creation in animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics through initiatives such as WAVES 2025. With this continued support, India is poised to emerge as a global leader in these sectors.” 

The release of the Chhota Bheem comic series echoes the vision emphasised during the recent WAVES Summit in Mumbai, which called for strengthening India’s creative economy through content that resonates with domestic audiences and reflects India’s cultural heritage. With its cross-generational appeal, the series is poised to enrich children’s literature while contributing to the larger national goal of encouraging Indian narratives across books, animation, films, and digital platforms.

MAHE’s Bioincubator To Host Premier Manipal Start-Up Expo 2025, Showcasing India's Innovation Ecosystem


  • Flagship events bring together start-ups, MSMEs, student innovators, and ecosystem enablers to accelerate entrepreneurship

  • Distinguished keynote speakers from DRDO, the biotech industry, and traditional sectors to share insights on innovation pathways

  • Strategic collaboration with TiE Mangaluru, KDEM, and leading financial institutions to foster investment opportunities

Bioincubator of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University, is set to host the prestigious Manipal Start-Up Expo 2025 on August 25, 2025, at the Advanced Research Centre Campus, Manipal. M-GOKB, a Technology Business Incubator established by MAHE and supported by Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), Government of Karnataka, and Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, serves as the driving force behind this initiative, dedicated to fostering and scaling start-ups by providing a nurturing ecosystem for technology-based innovation and supporting the entrepreneurial journey from ideation to product commercialization. This flagship event promises to be a dynamic showcase of India's most innovative minds and breakthrough technologies.

The expo is organized jointly by the Manipal-Government of Karnataka Bioincubator (MGOKB), Manipal Universal Technology Business Incubator (MUTBI), MIDAS (Medical Instruments, Devices and Allied Services) DST MAHE HUB, Innovation Center, MCHP (Manipal College of Health Professions), MCOPS (Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Science), and DBMS (Department of Basic Medical Sciences) MAHE. The initiative is further strengthened through active organizational collaboration with TiE Mangaluru, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), GCSE - Saraswat Chamber, POWER Group Manipal, and the State Bank of India.

The expo will feature a power-packed lineup of keynote sessions from distinguished industry leaders, including Dr. K. Mohan Velu, Scientist G, DEBEL/DRDO, who will address "Innovation of Biomedical Devices in Defense"; Dr. Rajkumar Aland, Senior Vice President, Bioplus Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd., presenting on "Nutraceutical Dosage Forms – Development & Challenges"; and Mr. Sankeern Pai, Business Development Head, Hangyo Ice Creams Pvt. Ltd., exploring "Beyond the Scoop: Fostering Innovation and Sustainability in a Traditional Industry."

Visioned as a comprehensive platform to accelerate innovation and entrepreneurship, the expo invites start-ups, MSMEs, student innovators, and ecosystem enablers to showcase their novel ideas, technologies, and products. With dedicated tracks for Start-ups/MSMEs, Student Innovators, and Delegates, the event aims to foster strategic partnerships, spark meaningful dialogue, and catalyze investment opportunities across India's innovation landscape.

The day-long event will feature an array of engaging activities including start-up pitch sessions, interactive exhibitions, networking zones, and opportunities for meaningful engagement with investors, venture capitalists, industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from DBT, DST, BIRAC, KTech, and leading academic institutions.

The expo reinforces MAHE's position as a leading institution committed to fostering entrepreneurial excellence and strengthening collaborative networks that drive India's innovation economy forward. By bringing together diverse stakeholders from academia, industry, government, and investment communities, the expo creates an unprecedented opportunity for knowledge transfer, partnership formation, and the acceleration of breakthrough technologies.

Start-ups, innovators, corporates, institutions, and ecosystem players are invited to register by August 10, 2025, to be part of this high-impact innovation showcase that promises to shape the future of India's entrepreneurial landscape.

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.

Bangur Concrete Launches First RMC Plant In Karnataka, Enters South India Market

Marks milestone in expansion journey with 19 RMC plants nationwide

‘Bangur’ as the Master Brand of Shree Cement Ltd., one of India’s leading cement producers, has forayed into the southern market with the launch of its first Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) plant in Yelahanka, North Bengaluru. With a designed capacity of 101 cubic meters per hour, this state-of-the-art facility marks a pivotal milestone in the company’s pan-India expansion strategy.

This expansion into Karnataka is a key part of the company’s broader ambition to strengthen its presence across India. With the addition of the Yelahanka facility, Bangur Concrete now operates 19 RMC plants nationwide. Each plant is designed to deliver consistent quality, meet stringent environmental standards and ensure operational efficiency.

Speaking on the occasion, Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement said, “We are proud to announce the launch of our first RMC plant in Karnataka, a significant step in our journey to serve the southern market. The Yelahanka facility reflects our strong focus on delivering high-quality, eco-conscious concrete solutions tailored to the dynamic needs of Bengaluru’s infrastructure landscape. With this addition, we now operate 19 RMC plants across India, strengthening our position as a trusted partner in the country’s construction sector.”

The Bengaluru plant not only reinforces Bangur Concrete’s commitment to engineering excellence, sustainability and innovation but also positions the brand at the heart of one of India’s fastest-growing urban centres. As the city witnesses robust growth across residential, commercial and infrastructure segments the demand for high-performance and eco-friendly construction materials continues to rise. Bangur Concrete is poised to meet these demands with precision and efficiency.

The new plant will serve both public and private sector projects in and around Bengaluru ensuring a reliable and timely supply of concrete for the city’s ongoing and upcoming developments.

With its growing national footprint and a sharp focus on innovation and sustainability, Bangur Concrete is poised to play a defining role in shaping the future of India’s infrastructure building stronger cities responsibly and efficiently.

About Shree Cement Limited

One of the leading cement groups in India, Shree Cement Limited (‘SCL’) (BSE: 500387/ NSE: SHREECEM) is known for its industry leading green credentials, cutting edge innovative practices and cost leadership. It follows ‘highest standards of Corporate Governance and has a long history of enjoying stakeholders’ trust. Shree Cement is known for its high-quality products which are manufactured at advance manufacturing facilities across India and UAE. It is determined to deliver the most sustainable building material solutions to its consumers.

Blue Dart Express Appoints Sagar Patil As "Chief Financial Officer"


Blue Dart Express Limited, South Asia's premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company, has announced the appointment of Sagar Patil as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company. His appointment was approved by the Board of Directors at the company’s recently convened Board Meeting which was held in Mumbai and will be effective from August 1, 2025. 

A Chartered Accountant by qualification, Sagar brings with him over 25 years of extensive experience in the field of Finance. He has been an integral part of the Blue Dart family for over eight years, having held key leadership roles such as Corporate Controller, Head – Corporate Accounts, and most recently, as the Interim CFO of the company. His distinguished career includes significant leadership roles across diverse industries, with tenures at DHL Express India, Burger King India, Shell Lubricants, and Owens Corning India.

Commenting on the appointment, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart Express, said, "We are delighted to have Sagar take on the role of Chief Financial Officer at Blue Dart. His deep understanding of Blue Dart’s business, combined with strong financial and strategic acumen, positions him well to lead the company’s finance function. I am confident that under his stewardship, our finance function will continue to drive strategic value, enabling sustained growth and excellence for Blue Dart.”

Expressing his gratitude, Sagar Patil, Chief Financial Officer at Blue Dart said, “Blue Dart has played a significant role in my professional journey, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity presented to me. Having been associated with Blue Dart for many years, it is a moment of great pride to be entrusted with the responsibility of leading the company’s finance function. I look forward to contributing further to the company’s growth by driving robust financial strategies and supporting our continued leadership in the logistics industry.”

Sagar’s appointment underscores Blue Dart’s commitment to strengthening its financial leadership in pursuit of the company’s strategic goals.

Friday, August 8, 2025

Raksha Bandhan Travel Goals: 5 Scenic Sibling Getaways By NueGo Electric Bus


This Raksha Bandhan, celebrate the bond of siblinghood with a memorable, eco-friendly trip to some of India’s most captivating destinations. Travel together, laugh together, and explore together—all while riding comfortably with NueGo, India’s leading electric intercity bus service. Here are 5 must-visit destinations you can explore with your sibling:

  1. Jaipur, Rajasthan – A Royal Sibling Escape

Uncover Jaipur’s vibrant culture, royal forts, and bustling bazaars with your sibling. Visit the Amber Fort, take selfies at Hawa Mahal, and shop for traditional Rajasthani jewellery and handicrafts.

How to Reach Jaipur with NueGo:

  • Route: Delhi → Jaipur

  • Fare: Starting at ₹399

  • Travel Time: ~5.5 hours

  • Ride safely and sustainably with NueGo’s electric bus service—complete with Wi-Fi, spacious seats, and zero emissions.

  1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh – A Monumental Bonding Experience

Celebrate your bond in the city of eternal love—the Taj Mahal. Explore Agra Fort, enjoy local delicacies like petha, and snap that perfect sibling picture with an iconic backdrop.

How to Reach Agra with NueGo:

  • Route: Delhi → Agra

  • Fare: Starting at ₹349

  • Travel Time: ~3.5 hours

  • With NueGo’s green travel option, your trip to this historical gem becomes as memorable as the sibling bond you’re celebrating. 

  1. Puducherry – French Charm and Calm by the Coast

Stroll along Promenade Beach, sip coffee at quaint French cafés, and admire colonial architecture. Perfect for siblings who appreciate slow travel, calm, and culture.

How to Reach Puducherry with NueGo:

  • Route: Chennai → Puducherry

  • Fare: Starting at ₹349

  • Travel Time: ~4 hours

  • NueGo’s eco-friendly buses let you explore this coastal town without leaving a carbon footprint.

  1. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – Misty Hills and Memories

Reconnect amid the cool climes of Kodaikanal. Trek to Coaker’s Walk, boat in Kodai Lake, and capture moments at Pillar Rocks. Perfect for nature-loving siblings.

How to Reach Kodaikanal with NueGo:

  • Route: Coimbatore → Kodaikanal

  • Fare: Starting at ₹549

  • Travel Time: ~6 hours

  • Let NueGo’s green and comfortable rides take you through scenic hill routes while you relax and bond.

  1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – Adventure Meets Tranquility

From river rafting to spiritual serenity at the Ganga Aarti, Rishikesh has something for every kind of sibling duo. Try bungee jumping or simply unwind by the riverside.

How to Reach Rishikesh with NueGo:

  • Route: Delhi → Rishikesh

  • Fare: Starting at ₹449

  • Travel Time: ~6.5 hours

  • NueGo’s electric buses ensure your journey to this adventure haven is just as calm and clean as your destination. 

Why Choose NueGo This Raksha Bandhan?

✅ Electric Buses – Zero emissions, greener journeys

✅ Safe & Comfortable – Sanitized buses, CCTV, GPS tracking

✅ Punctual & Reliable – On-time service, courteous staff

✅ Sibling-Friendly Travel – Spacious seating, charging ports

Make this Raksha Bandhan truly special. Book your sibling trip with NueGo—where your journey is as delightful as the destination. ��

Book Now at: www.nuego.in

Karnataka Emerges As PBPartners’ Power Market: 6,500+ Agent Partners, 50% Motor Insurance Business Surge In FY24-25


~PBPartners strengthens its position as a market leader in Karnataka, with an impressive base of 6,500+ agent partners~

~ Two new offices to open in Mysuru & Hubli; Focus on Tier 2 & 3 agent empowerment and digital enablement~

~Launch of MRP Plan & PBP One Loyalty Clubs~

~Seasonal insurance add-ons like Engine Protect, Zero Depreciation gain traction amid rising consumer awareness~


~Aim to achieve 25,000 active PoSPs in Karnataka over the next three years~

 

~Digital-first tools, on-demand payouts, and localised support accelerate insurance adoption across Karnataka~

PBPartners, one of India’s leading PoSP-driven insurance distribution platforms, continues to accelerate insurance penetration in Karnataka. The recent Mysuru press meet was part of PBPartners’ broader mission to deepen insurance penetration across India’s growth markets. PBPartners is reinforcing its identity as an agent partner-first brand committed to simplifying insurance, supporting agent livelihoods, and shaping a more financially secure India.

The event was led by Mr. Abhimanyu Sharma (Business Head – Motor Insurance) and Mr. Amit Bhadoria (National Sales Head – Motor Insurance), who shared detailed insights on the emerging trends among customers and the evolving market dynamics in Mysuru and the broader Karnataka region.

Key highlights from the press meet:

Rapid Market Penetration: Karnataka has emerged as a strategic growth market for PBPartners, with the state now home to a thriving network of 6,500+ agent partners across Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns. Over the last year, the company has significantly expanded its presence across key regions, tapping into Karnataka’s immense potential as the second-largest state in India in terms of vehicle registration.

Growth Fueled by Tech and Trust: Mr. Amit Bhadoria, National Sales Head – Motor Insurance, stated, “ The right blend of cutting-edge technology and the personal touch of agent partners has been a big contributor to the brand’s success in this region. In FY24–25, PBPartners recorded an 80% increase in agent recruitment and activation, with a 50% rise in motor insurance business in Karnataka. This growth reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour, with more individuals becoming aware of the importance of insurance.”

He further added, “We are dedicated to supporting our agent partners in Karnataka and making our services more accessible across the state. We will be inaugurating our Mysuru and Hubli offices by next year. The goal is to reach even the most remote villages, ensuring that PBPartners is accessible everywhere.”

Monsoon special tips and insurance add-ons to protect your vehicle: Mr. Abhimanyu Sharma (Business Head – Motor Insurance) also highlighted, “We have seen a rising awareness around vehicle safety, especially during seasonal shifts like the monsoon, and it has encouraged customers to explore modular insurance plans and bundled add-ons such as Engine Protection, Zero Depreciation, and Roadside Assistance. The combination of a tech-enabled customer journey and local, need-based advisory is helping PBPartners’ agents address evolving customer needs, particularly among first-time buyers seeking comprehensive protection.”

Empowering Agent Partners: Mr. Abhimanyu further added, “PBPartners has also simplified the payment process with its On-Demand Payout (ODP) feature, allowing agent partners to instantly withdraw earnings after every policy sale, with funds typically processed the same day or the next. This instant payout system ensures steady cash flow, especially helpful for agents in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.”

PBPartners has simplified insurance with its PBP App and digital-first CJ platform, enabling fast, paperless policy issuance and smooth servicing from start to finish.

To build a future-ready agent network, it offers real-time support, structured training, and smart tools tailored to local needs. Furthering this mission, two new initiatives have been launched to boost agent efficiency and growth.

    The launch of the Motor Renewal Protection (MRP) Plan is a strategic move designed to safeguard the renewal commissions of motor insurance agents, even in scenarios where the customer renews directly with the insurer.

    The introduction of ‘PBP One’ Clubs – a loyalty and recognition program- is aimed at celebrating top-performing agent partners through exclusive rewards, learning opportunities, and community-building experiences.

Together, these initiatives reflect PBPartners’ continued focus on innovation, agent partner empowerment, and inclusive insurance growth in emerging markets like Mysuru. PBPartners’  vision is to build a strong and empowered agent partner network of over 25,000 active PoSPs in Karnataka over the next three years

 With this, the aim is to deepen PBPartners' market presence and continue growing the share in the state’s insurance ecosystem.

About PBPartners

PBPartners is a brand under Policybazaar Insurance Brokers Private Limited, launched in 2021. As a digital platform built for Point of Sales Persons (PoSP), PBPartners enables independent insurance agent partners to sell a wide range of products through a single, easy-to-use mobile app. The platform enhances productivity, reduces operational friction, and supports end-to-end servicing through technology, making insurance distribution more efficient and scalable across India.

Aarthi Scans Launches India’s First Helium-Free 1.5T MRI In Bengaluru From Siemens Healthineers


Aarthi Scans and Labs, a leader in radiology and pathology, has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable medical imaging with the launch of India’s first helium-free 1.5 Tesla MRI system from Siemens Healthineers. The facility has introduced the Siemens Healthineers Magnetom Flow Plus at its newly opened center in Whitefield, Bengaluru, marking a breakthrough in patient-friendly and environmentally responsible diagnostics. 

Dr. Prasanna Vignesh, Radiologist and Executive Director at Aarthi Scans and Labs, said, “We are proud to pioneer yet another healthcare innovation in India. This helium-free MRI technology represents a paradigm shift in medical imaging, delivering exceptional clinical outcomes while addressing critical environmental and economic challenges.”

 

Traditional MRI systems consume thousands of litres of liquid helium, a non-renewable resource that is becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. The Magnetom Flow Plus transforms this approach by utilizing just 0.7L of helium in a completely sealed, zero-loss system. This breakthrough eliminates the need for regular helium refills and prevents any helium emissions into the atmosphere.

 

This innovative solution positions Aarthi Scans at the forefront of sustainable healthcare, offering diagnostic centres a pathway to long-term efficiency while maintaining the highest standards of patient care and environmental responsibility.

 

About Aarthi Scans and Labs

Founded in 1988 by Mr. V Govindarajan, Aarthi Scans and Labs is India's largest integrated diagnostics provider. With over 70 MRI scanners, 71 CT scanners, and 20 processing labs, Aarthi serves more than 8000 patients daily across cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Kolkata and Bangalore. Renowned for its affordable pricing, quality imaging, and ethics, Aarthi Scans is pioneering a new model of healthcare—where cost never comes at the cost of care.