Union Bank of India Wins “STAR PERFORMER-RANK 1” Award

Union Bank of India was awarded “STAR PERFORMER-RANK 1” in NPS The Game Changer Campaign organized by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), Ministry of Finance across all financial institutions for the period from November 20, 2023 to December 30, 2023. 

The felicitation ceremony was presided by Mr. Deepak Mohanty, Chairman, PFRDA at a glittering function held at Hotel Indian Habitat Center, Delhi on January 19, 2024. Ms. Beena Vaheed, Chief General Manager-Union Bank of India on behalf of Mr. Nidhu Saxena, Executive Director- Union Bank of India, was felicitated by Chairman, PFRDA in the felicitation ceremony. 

The Bank qualified as the Winner in Category 1 and its top performer executives including Executive Director along with 10 field functionaries were felicitated by PFRDA during the ceremony.  

PFRDA is the regulating body under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Finance, Government of India for overall supervision and regulation of pension in India.  

Plant-Based D2C Nutrition Brand Earthful Raises $400K In Pre-Seed Funding

* Earthful, a direct-to-consumer, plant-based nutrition brand has raised a Pre-Seed investment of USD 400 Thousand from Green Ivy Ventures among others. Marquee investors such as Abhishek Goyal of Tracxn; Jayant Paleti of Darwinbox; and Brij Bhushan of Magicpin have also participated in the round.

Over the last year, Earthful, co-founded by sisters Sudha Gogineni & Veda Gogineni, has shown an exemplary 5X growth. The clean label startup has witnessed a 15% MoM growth along with building a community of health enthusiasts. Earthful products are available to consumers through its own website and online marketplaces. More than 70-80% of the sales comes from their own website showcasing the strength of the brand love.

Earthful’s flagship product range includes 100% Plant Multivitamins, customised to the needs of Teens, Adults & Elderly, across genders. Their uniqueness lies in sourcing every single Vitamin & Mineral, from a science-backed plant source. For eg: Iron from Curry leaves, Vitamin C from Amla. They are also disrupting the Protein space, with a clean, 6 ingredients only, Plant Protein powder range, with natural Indianized tastes such as Kerala Vanilla, Alphonso Mango, Dark cocoa. They ensure the formulations are absolutely clean by avoiding unnecessary excipients, flavours, processed sugars and choosing natural alternatives.

Earthful was born out of a very personal need for founders, Sudha and Veda, to solve for their health needs. Coming from a health-conscious family, they understood the importance of eating right and staying fit. Yet, hustling a fast-paced lifestyle they fell prey to nagging health issues such as knee pains, energy crashes, etc. They understood the problem was hidden in their nutritional deficiencies. Being unhappy with the synthetic or animal-derived choices in the market, they went on to build a Clean, Plant based nutrition brand, Earthful.

Earthful has adopted a bold mission to fight hidden hunger in India, where we consume enough calories for our hunger but not the right amount & variety of nutrients. ~75% of Indians have deficiency of at least one Vitamin or Mineral, leading to health concerns. Earthful aims to tackle this problem head-on with its science-backed, plant nutrition.

Commenting on the investment, Veda Gogineni, Co-Founder, Earthful said, “We are delighted to have received the investment which will help us invest in research & development, build omni-channel distribution & expand our team.”

Abhishek Goyal, Co-Founder, Tracxn said, “Earthful is truly rebuilding trust in nutrition products by formulating clean products with transparency. Their choice of unique plant ingredients with scientific backing is very novel.”

Sudha, a Chemical engineer from IIT Kharagpur and ISB Hyderabad alumnus, has previously worked with ITC Ltd and Uber. While her co-founder, Veda, a Biotechnologist from IIT Kharagpur, earlier worked with Deutsche Bank and Meesho. Leveraging their strong science backgrounds & working with a team of qualified doctors & scientists, Earthful founders place highest importance to innovation & research. They also actively create content in increasing awareness about nutrition and wellness.

Highlighting the importance of quality, Sudha Gogineni, Co-Founder, Earthful said, “We are the first consumers of every product we make and are obsessed with quality & efficacy of our products.”

Dr. Sindhura, Director, Green Ivy Ventures said “I’m thrilled to partner with Earthful, founded by the incredible sisters Sudha & Veda. Their mission to fight undernutrition through 100% plant-based health supplements resonates deeply with me as a Doctor & Mother.”

Earthful is disrupting the fast- growing nutraceutical market in India, pegged to reach ~$18 billion by 2025. With the rise in lifestyle diseases, adoption of nutritional supplements has been on the rise.

Pidilite Ventures Hosts ‘Building Bonds’: Its First Ever Community-Building Event

Pidilite Ventures, the venture capital arm of Pidilite Industries, launched its first-ever community-building event in Bengaluru titled 'Building Bonds 2024,' with support from their partners, 100X.VC. The event gathered trailblazers from the venture capital, startup, and corporate realms, all sharing synergies with Pidilite’s core and adjacent businesses.

The platform featured over thirty industry experts across seven engaging sessions. The event garnered an overwhelming response, with over 300 participants attending the first edition of ‘Building Bonds 2024.’ The event focused on the following key areas that also form Pidilite Ventures’ core investment thesis:

·         Home Care & Maintenance: Businesses that simplify the process of caring for and maintaining people's most cherished possession—their homes.

·         Contractor as a Customer: Solutions and services that cater to contractors in the building and interior space.

·         Home Improvement & Renovation: Products, solutions & services leading to an improved home; be it aesthetics or utility.

·         Arts & Craft: New-age and differentiated solutions within the arts and crafts space.

·         Smart/Green Building Materials: Innovators involved in revolutionary building material that are both environmentally friendly and intelligent.

Sanket Parekh, Director, Pidilite Ventures, said, “At Pidilite Ventures, our mission is to invest in fast-growing and innovative companies that have synergies with Pidilite’s core and adjacent businesses. The construction and home improvement categories are usually not associated with tech innovation, and with ‘Building Bonds 2024’ we wanted to take this opportunity to highlight the innovators working in this space and bring more attention to their work. We look forward to seeing the next generation of entrepreneurs creating sustainable innovations, and adding value to their growth journeys, through our experience and expertise.”

Yagnesh Sanghrajka, Founder & CFO, 100X.VC said, “100X.VC strongly believes that innovation thrives with collaboration and is focused on discovering category-defining businesses for Pidilite Ventures. ‘Building Bonds 2024’ has set the stage for the road ahead, and we are very excited about the new possibilities. The platform witnessed some of the best minds from across industries engaging in vibrant discussions, uncovering trends, sharing investment-worthy insights, and exploring innovative sectoral opportunities."

Visionaries like, Karan Virwani (CEO, WeWork), Anand Lunia (Founding Partner, IndiaQuotient)| Arindam Paul (Founding Member & CBO, Atomberg Technologies), Bhavna Suresh (Founder & CEO, 10Club), Ramakant Sharma (Founder & COO, Livspace), Tanuj Choudhry (Founder & COO, HomeLane), Siddharth Pai (Founder, 3one4 Capital), Parag Dhol (General Partner, Athera Ventures) Srikanth Iyer (Founder & CEO, Homelane), Rajkamal Agarwal (Head- L&T Innovation Fund) and Sagar Gandhi (Head of Strategy and Business Excellence at Shapoorji Pallonji and Company Pvt Ltd), and many more shared valuable insights.

About Pidilite Ventures

Pidilite Ventures (www.pidilite.vc) is the venture arm of Pidilite Industries Limited. Pidilite Ventures invests in fast growing and innovative companies that have synergies with Pidilite’s core and adjacent businesses.

About Pidilite:

Pidilite Industries Limited is a leading manufacturer of adhesives and sealants, construction chemicals, craftsmen products, DIY (Do-It-Yourself) products and polymer emulsions in India. Our products range also includes paint chemicals, automotive chemicals, art materials and stationery, fabric care, maintenance chemicals, industrial adhesives, industrial resins and organic pigments & preparations. Most of the products have been developed through strong in-house R&D. Our brand name Fevicol has become synonymous with adhesives to millions in India and is ranked amongst the most trusted brands in the country. Some of our other major brands are M-Seal, Fevikwik, Fevistik, Roff, Dr. Fixit, Araldite and Fevicryl.

Photo Caption: From right to left Salil Dalal, Chief Business Officer at Pidilite Industries Ltd.; Tanuj Choudhry, Founder & COO of Homelane; Anil Goel, Former MD at Hettich India Pvt Ltd.; Anand Lunia, Founding Partner at India Quotient; and Ramakant Sharma, Founder & COO of Livspace, at the panel discussion on India's growth as a construction and home improvement hub at inaugural edition of Building Bonds by Pidilite Ventures in Bengaluru.

Free Infertility Camp For “Motherhood” By Gunasheela

After successful completion of camp in November 2023, on popular demand we announce another camp in this year for a healthy & happy family. With 47 years behind them Gunasheela has created miracles for birth. 

The torchbearers of IVF in Bengaluru have a track record of handling over 100,000 pregnancies with 74% success rate in IVF supported by over 20 fertility experts. Here is an invitation for “wanting mothers” to be part of the camp which is scheduled at their Basavana Gudi centre all day long on Friday 26thJanuary 2024.

 Now those struggling to conceive and have lost hope can come & rediscover at Gunasheela. Just register & stand to gain a comprehensive diagnostic package Consultation, Examination, Investigations & Scan is FREE.. T&C Apply. Call on 46462600 or 080-26673588 now.Toll Free: 1800-425-0524

Brookfield Properties Unveils Art Project Leading Inclusivity

* Aravani Art Project brings Ecoworld underpass to life

Brookfield Properties, a leading global developer and operator of high-quality real estate assets, unveiled an art project championing inclusivity at the recently built underpass in Ecoworld, Bengaluru in collaboration with the Aravani Art Project. The Indian public art collective, Aravani Project, brings together people from the LGBTQIA+ community to create awareness and wellbeing through art. Brookfield Properties aims to support and empower the community across its properties through such initiatives.

The focal point of this artwork at Ecoworld revolves around the theme of diversity and the portrayal of under-represented gender categories, asserting their rightful and equal standing in society. The concept - 'Naavu Iddhivi' in Kannada, meaning 'We Exist', intricately expresses and delineates gender disparity in this art project through its 16 distinct personas. Each persona is based on a real story and experience, portraying unique identities and challenges, fostering empathy and understanding. Local artists transformed the space into a visual spectacle, celebrating Bengaluru's gender diversity and promoting inclusivity through vibrant murals. These illustrations are a result of numerous workshops and studies carried out by the artist within her diverse community.

Shantanu Chakraborty, Executive Vice President and Region Head, South at Brookfield Properties India said, "At Brookfield Properties, diversity, and inclusion are at the core of everything we believe in. This impactful collaboration aligns perfectly with our core values to create spaces that are not only functional but also drive positive social change. We thank Aravani projects, RMZ and Honeywell for their contribution in bringing about this unique artwork at our asset and we look forward to an ongoing engagement with the community”.

He added “As a part of our asset enhancing program, we are undertaking significant initiatives that will add incremental value to our existing and prospective clients by way of ensuring a smooth and efficient commute for our park users. The underpass is one such intervention amongst others that are in the works. This will benefit the businesses and residents in the region, while contributing to our broader objective of improving urban mobility in Bengaluru”.

Poornima, founder of Aravani Art Project said, "The Aravani Art Project has always been committed to using art as a powerful tool for social change, and this creative collaboration with Brookfield Properties allowed us to bring this vision to life on a larger canvas. This social initiative created ‘Art Inspired Experiences’ that engage and recognize all members of society and carry affirmative social messaging for the community at large. The small anecdotes within each portrait serve as windows into the diverse lives and experiences of individuals. Better Together encapsulates the essence of unity, transcending gender boundaries and emphasizing the beauty that emerges when we come together as one.”

Hero MotoCorp Unveils Exciting Future Roadmap At Hero World 2024

*    DEBUTS IN THE UPPER-PREMIUM SEGMENT WITH MAVRICK 440 MOTORCYCLE

*    STRENGTHENS 125cc SEGMENT WITH THE LAUNCH OF THE NEW XTREME 125R

*     AUGMENTS ‘XOOM’ SCOOTER PORTFOLIO WITH – XOOM 125 AND XOOM 160

*    PAVES WAY FOR E-MOBILITY WITH VIDA COUPE AND SETS NEW STANDARDS FOR SUSTAINABILITY WITH THE SHOWCASE OF FLEX-FUEL TECHNOLOGY

“The year 2024 is indeed very special as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Hero. Today we stand as a beacon of Indian ingenuity and enterprise, contributing significantly to the resurgence of our nation's manufacturing capabilities, engineering, innovation and technology prowess.  The year 2024 also holds special significance as we celebrate and commemorate the centennial year of our Founder & Chairman Emeritus, my beloved father and our Hero Forever, Dr. Brijmohan Lall Munjal. His towering personality remains unparalleled, continuing to inspire me and all of us through his enduring legacy and steadfast value system.

The global footprint of Hero MotoCorp today extends to nearly 50 countries across multiple continents, where Hero is not just a brand, but a shining example of a confident Bharat - mirroring the mood & vision of the nation - upbeat, dynamic, self-reliant and ambitious, championed by our honorable Prime Minister – Shri Narendra Bhai ji Modi.” Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman – Hero MotoCorp.

Unveiling the next frontier in the Future of Mobility, Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of scooters and motorcycles, today unveiled the highly anticipated second edition of Hero World at the state-of-the-art R&D hub of Hero, the Centre for Innovation and Technology (CIT) in the northern Indian city of Jaipur, India.

Taking the center stage were the latest production-ready vehicles in ICE segment, customer-centric solutions, technological innovations, with the focus placed firmly on electrification and sustainability. The one-of-a-kind event served as a platform for the iconic brand to unveil its ambitious future roadmap.

Marking a significant milestone in the company’s 40 years of illustrious history, Hero MotoCorp proudly announced its foray in the mid-weight category with the much-anticipated Mavrick 440 motorcycle. With a rich legacy of delivering reliable and efficient motorcycles and scooters, the company is set to redefine the dynamics of the 400cc segment. With the Mavrick 440, a new technology flagship is blazing a trail for innovations, a perfect blend of dynamic design, and the signature reliability that Hero MotoCorp is renowned for.

The ever-popular 125cc segment of Hero MotoCorp has been further invigorated with the launch of its newest offering, Hero Xtreme 125R. Combining the agility and versatility of an Xtreme model, crisply drawn lines, powerfully sculpted surfaces and dynamic proportions gives Xtreme 125R an athletic, commanding and imposing appearance. The new Xtreme 125R is available at Hero MotoCorp dealerships in two variants, priced at Rs. 95,000 for IBS and Rs. 99,500 for ABS*. (Ex-Showroom Delhi)

Mr. Niranjan Gupta, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Hero MotoCorp, said, "The Hero World 2024 is an incredible platform to unveil our future roadmap. Hero World is not just about showcasing cutting-edge vehicles; it's about introducing a spectrum of advanced solutions that cater to the diverse needs of our customers. From premium motorcycles that redefine elegance to mass mobility solutions that address the pulse of a nation, our commitment to inclusivity is unwavering. The future of mobility, for us, is a tapestry woven with threads of electrification and sustainability. Our approach to sustainability is ingrained in our vision to be the Future of Mobility. Let’s ‘Ride into Tomorrow’ together, where the roads we traverse are not just paths; they're narratives of progress, innovation, and a commitment to a brighter, sustainable future."

In keeping with the Government of India’s Flex Fuel Initiative and reiterating its focus on ushering in a new era of sustainable and clean mobility solutions, Hero MotoCorp, showcased its first three prototypes of Flex-Fuel Motorcycles – the ethanol-based Hero HF Deluxe, Splendor+ and Glamour. Within a short span of launching its first electric vehicle, VIDA V1, the Company has now announced its FFV concept thus, highlighting the strategic roadmap of Hero MotoCorp towards introducing sustainable mobility solutions across diverse mediums of electric, and alternate fuels.

Under the umbrella of emerging and green mobility, Hero MotoCorp presented three groundbreaking concepts for a versatile and sustainable mobility mix at the Hero World 2024. Hero MotoCorp revealed Vida V1 Coupe that offers a seamless blend of practicality and personal expression and two EV concepts – the Lynx and Acro. Both these products developed at the company’s European R&D hub – the Tech Center Germany, near Munich takes design, operation, efficiency and sustainability into a whole new dimension.

As a part of its ongoing product offensive, Hero MotoCorp also exhibited production-ready vehicles and trailblazing concepts previously unveiled at EICMA 2023 that will revolutionize urban mobility in tomorrow’s world. The company showcased two new ICE scooters – the Xoom 125 and the Xoom 160 at the event. Building a comprehensive portfolio of high-capacity premium motorcycles, it also showcased the – Concept 2.5R XTunt– which is a new category for the company.

Mavrick 440

Design

Introducing the Mavrick 440, it is a style icon in its own right. Instantly recognizable from afar thanks to its authentic look with a distinctive bold and assertive design. This motorcycle strikes a balance between unmistakable roadster aesthetics and robust styling, presenting a commanding road presence and a youthful appeal. Up close, you recognize iconic details such as Muscular fuel tank, Metal styling body parts, interactive telematics instruments, and wide handlebars. Your ride is accompanied by the distinctive and characterful sound from the exhaust system. Illuminating the road before you, the motorcycle features Round LED projector headlights, daytime running lights, and an 'intelligent automatic headlight' for style and safety.

Power and Performance

The powerful Mavrick 440 is fitted with an Air cooled with oil cooler 2V single-cylinder 440cc ‘TorqX’ engine with electronic fuel injection. This long-stroke engine delivers 27 bhp @ 6000 rpm and a torque of 36 Nm @ 4000 rpm. Specifically designed for high low-end torque, over 90% of the peak torque is accessible from just 2000 rpm, providing a smooth and stress-free ride for city commuting and highway journeys.

Performance-wise, the Mavrick 440 features a 6-speed transmission with a slip-and-assist clutch, The specially crafted 0° steel radial pattern tyres ensure support during extreme lean angles.

Comfort without Compromise

Crafted with comfort in mind, the Mavrick 440 features roadster ergonomics with an upright riding position, a spacious seat, ample legroom, and optimized grab-rails, making the journey comfortable for both rider and passenger. Wide handlebars provide a comfortable grip, enhancing control and manoeuvrability. Additionally, the ergonomically sculpted rider seat, featuring plush 60mm foam, ensures a comfortable experience that combines powerful performance along with timeless style.

Equipped with powerful 17-inch wheels at the front and rear with a ground clearance of 175mm, the Mavrick 440 excels in road-hugging capabilities, ensuring an engaging and secure ride, especially in urban settings. Wide tires, a trellis frame, and 43mm dia Telescopic Front Forks contribute to stability, with preloaded 7-step twin shocks for a controlled and smooth ride. The high-performance brake system ensures efficient deceleration and short braking distances.

Interactive Telematics Features

The Digital Speedometer with Negative Display opens up new worlds for you, not only in terms of readability, menu navigation and operating concept. Its offers Smart Phone Feature (Phone Battery Status, Miss call Alert, Bluetooth Message Alert), Incoming Call Alert, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, Low Fuel Indicator, RTMi Display, Distance to Empty etc.

For riders seeking an intelligent and connected experience, the Mavrick 440 sets a new standard with its cutting-edge eSIM-based connectivity. This feature enables real-time information, remote tracking, and access to over 35 functions through Connected 2.0 technology. The eSIM functionality ensures seamless connectivity, making the riding experience not just powerful but also intelligently connected.

Hero XTREME 125R

The XTREME 125R perfectly captures the aspirational needs in mobility of the gen-next customers. It’s here to “Challenge the Extreme”, a LEAP AHEAD in terms of performance, styling, riding dynamics and safety.

LEAP AHEAD IN PERFORMANCE: The XTREME 125R features an all new 125cc SPRINT engine (Smooth Power Response and Instant Torque) with EBT (Engine Balancer Technology). The balancer shaft along with silent cam chain ensures high refinement levels. The bike has a power output of 11.4 bhp with acceleration of 0-60 kmph in 5.9 seconds. With high power & Torque, XTREME 125R does not compromise on fuel efficiency and has an exceptional mileage of 66 kmpl. The bike also has Hero’s proprietary i3S idle stop start system to further enhance fuel efficiency.

LEAP AHEAD IN STYLING: For gen-next customers owning a bike is an extension of their identity. XTREME 125R comes with a unique breakthrough style with a muscular, chiseled and sporty look. The bike comes with an all LED set up which has First-in-Segment Projector LED headlamp, LED Winkers and Signature LED tail lamp. The bike also has a sporty compact muffler which is powered with a Hero Signature Beat. The First-in-segment wheel cover adds to the overall sporty quotient. The bike features a negative LCD instrument cluster with Gear Position Indicator and Bluetooth connectivity for call and SMS alerts.

LEAP AHEAD IN RIDE DYNAMICS: XTREME 125R uses a lightweight, heavy duty diamond type frame which is tuned for superior handling performance. XTREME 125R comes with Widest-in-its-class 120/80 section rear tyre ensuring superior cornering stability. The Thickest-in-segment 37 mm dia front suspension provides precision response. The 7 Step adjustable Monoshock is tuned for comfort in all conditions.

Further the front and rear suspensions are specifically developed for this bike in collaboration with Showa. The riding stance along with the wide and flat handlebar offers a sporty yet a comfortable riding experience for daily commutes.

LEAP AHEAD IN SAFETY: Apart from having cutting-edge features, XTREME 125R also delivers on Safety with a First-in-segment Single channel ABS with 276 mm dia front disc brake, XTREME 125R is tuned for braking stability on all surfaces adding an extra layer of protection for the rider. The bike also comes with a Hazard Lamp which increases the safety of the rider and bike multifold in adverse weather conditions.

The New Xtreme 125R offers a range of vibrant colour options to suit your style. Opt for the firestorm Red, make a stylish statement with Cobalt Blue, or choose the Stallion Black for a timeless look. Personalize your ride to match your individual style with these dynamic color choices.

Keeping with its vision to be the Future of Mobility, at Hero World 2024, the Company also showcased its world's first-class convertible vehicle- “Surge S32”. The innovative product has 40 patents to its name, has the seamless technology fluidly transitions between a two-wheeler and a three-wheeler in mere seconds. The product, conceptualized and built in India, aesthetically also redefines the perception of three- wheelers.

Freedo, an online two-wheeler rental platform with 1.5L downloads is available on iOS and Android, offers a wide range of product across 10+ cities and is the largest rental player in Delhi-NCR region with plans to grow nationally.

Goldmedal Electricals Unveils I-Power Travel Adapter For Seamless Global Connectivity

* I-Power Travel Adapter is a chargeable plug charger allows for a hassle-free fast device charging anytime- anywhere.

Goldmedal Electricals, is one of India’s leading Fast Moving Electrical Goods (FMEG) the leading home grown fast moving electrical goods (FMEG) company announces the launch of its innovative I-Power Travel Adapter for delivering the fastest possible portable charging. This latest addition is a compact and practical charging option for all the travel enthusiasts and those always on the go.

I-Power travel adapter also offers features such as:

·         Support PD+QC+PPS fast charging protocol and can charge for phone, tablet and notebook.

·         Available in EU Plug Option

·         Available in 30W high power

Commenting on the latest addition, Kishan Jain, Director, Goldmedal Electricals, said “I am thrilled to introduce our latest product, the I-POWER Travel Adaptor. We have designed this travel adaptor with the needs of modern travellers in mind, ensuring that it is both safe and efficient. With its advanced features, such as the LED display, high power, cooling system, Turbo Power Engine, and smart chip, the I-POWER Travel Adaptor is the perfect solution for anyone who needs to charge their electronic devices on the go. We are confident that this product will exceed your expectations and provide a reliable charging solution for all your travel needs. With the introduction of Goldmedal I- power travel adapter, we aim to make to our consumers.” 

Goldmedal Electricals, is known for its wide range of innovative and highly efficient LED lights and fixtures. The company also offers variety of modular switches and accessories, home automation systems, luminaries and LED lights, wires and cables, doorbells, fans, PVC pipes, DBs, MCBs and others.

The I- Power Travel Adaptor retails for Rs. 1,100 with a 1 year warranty.

In conclusion, the I-POWER Travel Adaptor is the perfect solution for anyone who needs a reliable, efficient, and safe way to charge their electronic devices while on the go. With its easy installation, chargeable plug charger, quality certificate, LED display, high power, cooling system, Turbo Power Engine, and smart chip, this adaptor is sure to meet all of your charging needs.