The All-New Tata Safari Debuts In The Himalayan Country Of Nepal

Tata Motors, India’s leading automotive brand, in partnership with Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd., has launched its premium flagship SUV – The All-new Safari in Nepal. With a compelling blend of comfort, performance and prestige, the all-new 7-seater will available at a starting price of NPR 81.99 Lakhs, appealing to the modern day, contemporary SUV customers who desire the perfect mix of power and elegant sophistication.

Tata Motors has also unveiled the "Adventure" persona of the Safari that accentuates the 'rugged and sporty' styling of the SUV while adding a flamboyant look for customers to choose what matches best with their personality. Launched in an expressive Tropical Mist color scheme, it takes inspiration from the rich and diverse flora across the vibrant landscapes of India. With its tough & stylish exteriors and true-blue SUV characteristics, the Safari will be at home across the rich and diverse landscape of Nepal. The vehicles are now on display and have been made available for test drives across the dealer network by Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd.

Speaking on the launch of the all new Safari in Nepal, Mr. Mayank Baldi - Head PVIB, Tata Motors, said, “We’re extremely delighted to announce the launch of our premium flagship SUV - The All-New Safari, in Nepal. The New Safari is the culmination of our bold aspirations and unstinted commitment to design, safety, and driving pleasure – the key pillars of the ‘New Forever’ range. With its performance-engineered body, born out of Omega Architecture, carrying the legendary JLR pedigree, best-in-class features and premium finish, the new Safari personifies the pinnacle of SUVs, augmenting the brand’s iconic legacy in the fastest growing market segment. Successfully crossing a significant milestone of 10,000 production units for the Indian market in a span of less than 6 months, we couldn’t be happier with our customers’ response and continued trust in Tata Motors. Wishing for a similar love and adulation for the New Safari from our Nepal customers and brand enthusiasts”

Commenting on this momentous occasion, Mr. Rajan Babu Shrestha, Chief Executive Officer, Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd., said, “The introduction of the Safari marks another milestone in our partnership with Tata Motors, considering it is a unique offering to suit the aspirations and lifestyles of the Nepalese customers, while also promoting the uptake of SUVs. The Safari is an iconic brand and we are delighted to partake in this exciting journey and bring the best of the products to our customers in Nepal before this festive season. Additionally, as a part of our initiative to give the best to our customers, we will also be displaying the Safari at a first of its kind experience zone at Labim Mall, in the heart of Lalitpur city. This experience centre also provides a privilege parking space for all Tata Motors’ customers while also giving them a seamless experience to learn more about the products and services from the company while sipping their choice of freshly brewed coffee.”

The all-new Safari has been designed and engineered to offer supreme comfort, safety, durability, and performance to our SUV customers. Be it intra-city commute, expressway cruising or the unexplored paths in the hinterland, Safari being powered by 2.0 litre Turbocharged Kyrotec engine, delivers a new benchmark of drivability. Stretching over a 2741 mm wheelbase, mesmerizing you with a majestic panoramic sunroof, signature Oyster White Interiors paired with the Ashwood finish dashboard, and overwhelming you with a cutting edge 8.8-inch floating island infotainment system, the New Safari will be an adorable package to our customers in Nepal.

In its new avatar, the Safari takes forward the brand’s rich legacy by combining Tata Motors’ Impact 2.0 design language with the proven capability of OMEGARC, the architecture derived from the renowned D8 platform from Land Rover - the gold standard of SUVs worldwide.

The Safari not just stands apart as a 6/7-seater vehicle but boasts of a plethora of features like an advanced ESP with 14 functionalities and Boss Mode providing enhanced ride comfort to ensure active and passive safety – making it compelling for the fast-evolving and technologically advanced Nepalese market. Furthermore, the vehicle comes in additional color options of Daytona Grey and Orcus White along with the signature Royal Blue.

Taking the style quotient a little higher, the ‘Adventure’ persona comes with R18 black tinted charcoal grey machined alloys and an all-piano black finish in its grille, roof rails insert, outer door handles along with a Safari mascot placement on the bonnet. On the interiors, the ‘Adventure’ persona looks plush with signature earthy brown interiors, dark chrome interior accents on air vents, knob, switches, inner door handle and instrument cluster along with a piano black interior pack on steering wheel, grab handles, floor console frame and IP mid pad finisher. The all-new Safari will be available in nine variants, starting from XE and going up to the XZA+. Launched early this year in India, the product has received a massive response and is one of the top-selling 6/7-seater high SUVs in India, commanding a sizable market share of 18%, in the High SUV segment.

FLAME University Gets E-LEAD Certification By QS I∙GAUGE

FLAME University, a pioneer of liberal education in India, is now certified with an E-LEAD certificate by QS I∙GAUGE to certify the preparedness of FLAME University to conduct online teaching and learning. QS I∙GAUGE is a brand incorporated in India as an independent private-sector initiative specialised in rating colleges, universities and schools. It brings together global expertise, experience, and reputation of UK based (QS) Quacquarelli Symonds, along with deep local knowledge of luminaries from Indian education.

The certification process involved rigorous data collection, evaluation and assessment of performance metrics as set out in the methodology by QS. It is a validation of the effort put in by FLAME University faculty and professional associates in setting up their online learning systems last year, in the wake of the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. QS I∙GAUGE is a comprehensive and independent rating system for India’s universities and colleges.

Consisting of seven primary indicators and five secondary indicators, ranging from Teaching and Learning, Employability and Social Responsibility to Research and Innovation, the QS I∙GAUGE rating provides a unique 360-degree perspective of India’s institutions for higher learning.

Speaking on the future plans on online education, Dr. Dishan Kamdar, Vice-Chancellor, FLAME University said, “Technology adoption is one of the focus areas at FLAME University and we have been progressively adopting technology into our program offerings and upgrading our faculty members with cutting-edge practices to ensure our online course delivery is relevant and rigorous, and benefits our students. I am happy that our efforts are beginning to be acknowledged and the E-LEAD certification is a recognition of the standards we have strived to uphold. We have ambitious plans to infuse more technology into the delivery of courses and also expand our offerings through MOOCs.  We look forward to partnering with QS I-GAUGE in enhancing our future endeavours. “

QS Maintains complete operational control and supervision on the processes. Each rating produced is strictly monitored for quality control by the QS Intelligence Unit in London. This is the same team that produces the authoritative QS World University Rankings (since 2004) and related regional and subject rankings, as well as the globally recognised QS STARS university ratings system.

Based on the globally recognised QS STARS University Rating System developed by QS, QS I·GAUGE has been adapted to capture the reality of the dynamic Indian education sector, while at the same time maintaining the strict quality standards that are synonymous with the QS brand.

About FLAME University 

FLAME University is the pioneer of liberal education in India, delivering the country's premier interdisciplinary education experience. It is driven to being one of India's most respected and reputed centres of learning - the premier destination of choice for higher education in the nation for learners and teachers, to push the design and nature of studies and to create a societal up-gradation phenomenon, particularly in the fields of liberal education and leadership. FLAME has been set up with an idealistic vision and a social commitment to contribute to society nobly. With more than 100 quality full-time faculty members, the university offers an unparalleled educational experience. The student-teacher ratio is 10:1, unmatched at the higher education level in India. Spread on 60 acres of green expanse with aesthetically designed infrastructure, and the campus currently consists of four schools: FLAME School of Liberal Education, FLAME School of Business, FLAME School of Communication, and FLAME School of Fine & Performing Arts. FLAME University has been established as a state private university vide the FLAME University Act 2014 (Maharashtra Act No. II of 2015) of the Government of Maharashtra. It is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) under Section 2(f), and degrees awarded by the University are recognized under Section 22 of the UGC Act, 1956

About QS-ERA India Private Limited

QS-ERA India Private Limited is a revolutionary joint-venture between QS Quacquarelli Symonds Ltd. of the United Kingdom and India’s ERA Foundation. Conceived as an independent private-sector initiative, QS-ERA brings together the global expertise, experience and reputation of QS, and the deep local knowledge and partnership network of the ERA Foundation. Based in Bangalore, QS-ERA produces QS I•GAUGE college & university rating tools and school rating tools which capture the essence of the dynamic Indian education system and conforms to international standards and best practices. QS maintains complete operational control and supervision on the processes. Each rating produced is strictly monitored for quality control by the QS Intelligence Unit in London. This is the same team that produces the authoritative QS World University Rankings (since 2004) and related regional and subject rankings, as well as the globally recognised QS STARS university ratings system. Close supervision by QS (IU) ensures the independence, quality and integrity of the ratings, leading to their global recognition.

Various Attractions Are Added At Zero Point Of India-Pakistan Border, The Only Border Tourism Centre In Gujarat

·       'Ajay Prahari' memorial erected in the memory of heroic soldiers who sacrificed their lives for protecting the nation

·       Auditorium, Solar Trees, Selfie Points, Kids and Gaming Zone, Viewing Desk, T-Junction Pillars are constructed at Nadabet

·       Army weapons are put in display so that the tourists coming for Seema Darshan get to know the preparedness of the army and security forces

Under the guidance of Chief Minister Shri Vijay Rupani, Gujarat Tourism Department is developing Border tourism under Seema Darshan project at zero point of international border at Nadabet. With this innovative approach of Border Tourism, people of the nation are getting an opportunity to know the border and enjoy the experience of border tourism.

With this innovative experiment of giving the citizens a real experience to see the life style of the BSF Jawans who are constantly safeguarding the Mother land; tourism in Gujarat has gained momentum. Tourists are coming in the state in big number to see the lifestyle, duties and patriotism of these army men. Besides, they are getting an opportunity to witness the thrilling work of protecting and defending the border of the country.

Considering the big number of the tourists coming in Gujarat, various attractions have been added at Nadabet by the tourism department like Pared Ground, Exhibition Centre, Auditorium, Lighting, Solar Trees, Selfie Points.  Kids and Gaming Zone is also constructed for the entertainment of children.

‘Ajay Prahari’ Memorial has been erected in the memory of those heroic soldiers who sacrificed their lives for protecting the nation. Tourists visiting the memorial can also pay homage to the martyrs. The 30-foot-high T-junction, adorned with beautiful murals, will be the focal point of the Seema Darshan complex.

In addition to that, a platform is created on the road from T-Junction to zero point and various army weapons like surface to surface missile, surface to surface air missile, T-55 Tank, Artillery Gun, Torpedo, and Mig-27 aircraft have been put in display. With this, the tourists coming for Seema Darsha will get an opportunity to know the preparedness of our army and security forces.

A viewing desk tower is also created so that the tourists visiting Nadabet can also enjoy the view of the border. Tourists can anjoy a spectacular border view from the tower. A children play area is created for the children where they can play various outdoor games.

A pared ground is prepared for the Retreat Ceremony. A retreat ceremony will be organized by the BSF Jawans on this Pared Ground. The sight of this retreat ceremony creates a unique sense of patriotism in every tourist visiting Nadabet.

Various facilities like Parking, Drinking water, toilet blocks, arrival plaza, sitting arrangements, shops, retaining wall etc. have been made available for the tourists.  Solar trees have also been installed to illuminate Nadabet with solar energy at night.

The local employment has been increased in the last 5 years due to launch of Seema Darshan Program.

Nadeshwari Mata temple is situated near zero point, where a large number of tourists come to visit every year. A rest house has also been constructed near Nadeshwari Mata temple.

Seema Darshan – Nadabet is located at Banaskantha district near the Indo-Pak border. The tourists can easily visit the nearby places. A well know Amba Mata temple i.e. Ambaji, Jesor Bear Sacntuary, Balaram Palace and Balaram Mahadev Temple are located in Banaskantha District. Besides, 'Rani Ki Vav' and 'Patola House' in the neighboring district of Patan are also interesting places to visit.

It is mandatory for every tourist visiting the Seema Darshan to have a government approved photo identity card.

Tourists can reach Seema Darshan – Nadabet easily by road. It is located at 262 kms from Ahmedabad, 372 kms from Vadodara, 315 kms from Rajkot, 524 kms from Surat, 371 kms from Bhavnagar and 265 kms from Bhuj. The nearest airport is Ahmedabad airport.

It is to be noted that, Seema Darshan Program at Zero Point at Nadabet was inaugurated by the Chief Minister Shri Vijay Rupani on 24th December, 2016.

Various Developmental works are completed by Gujarat Tourism Department under Swadesh Darshan Scheme.

Gujarat Tourism Department is actively working to develop various tourist places of the state. Vadnagar, Modhera and Patan are also included in the Heritage Circuit. Various developmental works have been done by Tourism Department at historical Modhera Sun Temple under Swadesh Darshan Scheme.

Various developmental works like path-way, seating arrangements, area development, retaining wall, RCC wall, pitch wall, general lighting, plantation, street poll, electric works, benches etc. have been done at the Sun Temple.

The Sun Temple was built by Bhimraj first (I) in the 11th century. From the architectural point of view, this Sun Temple is a supreme example among the temples built in the Solanki style in Gujarat. Lakhs of tourists from all over the country and the world come to Gujarat to see this historic heritage every year.

It is to be noted that Modhera is famous as the first Solar Village of the country. Historic Modhera Sun Temple and Modhera Village will sparkle with solar energy. Houses in the Modhera village and the Sun Temple will be completely illuminated through solar energy.

WGHSA-MAHE - Launched First International Alumni Chapter Of USA

The Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), a constituent of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), launched the first international Alumni Chapter of USA on 25th August, 2021. There were moments of surprise, happiness, exhilaration and joy when alumni met after a decade or more with each other virtually. The program was gracefully presided by Mr. Sanjay Bose Executive Vice President HR and L&D, ITC Hotels as the Chief Guest and Lt. Gen.(Dr) M.D.Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor MAHE, as the Guest of honour.  Dr Rohit Singh, Director Alumni Relations, MAHE was also part of the program.

While welcoming the audience, WGSHA Principal, Chef K.Thiru,  emphasized that Alumni are the brand ambassadors of the Institution and a very vibrant relationship must be established and nurtured. Dr Sandhya Johnson from 1st Course BHM and Mr. Amitava Chatterjee from 6th course BHM, who are instrumental in forming the union, have shared their thoughts and the memories about their days in the college.

Celebrity Chef Vikas Khanna provided his emotional thoughts and excitement about his college days and stressed his commitment to the betterment of the institute. He said WGSHA has helped them to relive the college life with significance and he is always proud to mention WGSHA in every occasion possible. Chief Guest, Mr.Sanjay Bose reiterated the 35 years of partnership between MAHE and ITC Hotels, and shared his happy feelings about the enthusiasm of USA alumni to join the network. He said besides being professionals we have been able to generate some extremely good human beings which he thinks is the larger contribution to society.

Guest of Honour, Dr.Venkatesh appreciated WGSHA’s efforts and said effective alumni engagement is one of the key elements in MAHE’s success as an Institute of Eminence. He said MAHE is proud that there more than 60000 registered alumni who are actively engaged with MAHE activities. Dr. Rohit Singh, Director of Alumni Relations shared his thoughts and wished that this new chapter will widen the possibilities of alumni contributions. The alumni members were happily shared their experiences and expressions about their alma mater. The program concluded with a lovely cultural program by the students of Department of Dietetics and Nutrition. Everyone departed with the resolve to visit again and spread the message amongst all to build and strengthen the network to make it grow exponentially.

Indians Rate Amazon Prime Video As The Most Preferred Streaming Service Of 2021: YouGov’s Study

* Manoj Bajpayee starrer Family Man New Season emerges as the most popular OTT series with two in five viewers listing it as their favourite 

Amazon Prime offers an incredible value with unlimited streaming of the latest and exclusive movies, TV shows, stand-up comedy, Amazon Originals, ad-free music listening through Amazon Prime Music, free fast delivery on India’s largest selection of products, early access to top deals and new launches, unlimited reading with Prime Reading and access to free in-game content and benefits with Gaming with Prime, all available for an annual membership of Rs. 999 

Amazon’s large catalogue of quality content by subscribing to Prime Video Mobile Edition. Prime Video Mobile Edition is a single-user, mobile-only plan currently available for Airtel Pre-Paid customers 

In its continued efforts of bringing the most authentic, relatable and compelling stories across genres, Amazon Prime Video has been adjudged the leader of the digital streaming arena once again. The latest YouGov survey, released on 18th August 2021, has placed Amazon Prime Video as the most preferred streaming service of 2021 amongst Indian viewers. Results of the poll conducted between 15th – 20th June 2021, drawn from responses of thousands of viewers across India, states that Prime Video is the most preferred channel when it comes to viewing Indian originals across multiple languages. 

The results also declare ‘The Family Man – New Season’ as the most favourite show of 2021. Other Amazon Originals such as Chacha Vidhayak & Hain Humare Season 2 were also contenders in the foremost list. As part of the same survey, netizens have rated ‘Four More Shots Season 3’, another Amazon Prime Video original among the most awaited sequels. Right since its launch, the new season of The Family Man has opened to resounding applause from the audience for its gripping narrative and splendid performances which have also surfaced as the key reasons for the Amazon original series topping the favorites’ list. Viewers have attributed the success to Manoj Bajpayee’s charming presence as Srikant Tiwari.    

The poll results revealed that one in eight respondents (12%) consider the language or origin of a series important when deciding what to watch on OTT platforms. Amazon Prime Video (APV), in its constant endeavour to tap the ‘many India’s’, has been rolling out a consistent stream of high-quality content on its streaming service ever since inception. From originals to movies to DTS titles, content on Prime Video has always stuck a chord with the audience seamlessly surpassing boundaries and making the stories travel to over 240 countries and territories worldwide at once.  

In addition to a slew of well-crafted originals’, Amazon Prime Video was the first streaming service in 2020 to launch Direct To Service (DTS) offering with the most anticipated titles across languages. The past year itself witnessed a huge repository of films including Gulabo Sitabo, Shakuntala Devi, Coolie No. 1, Master, Yuvarathna, Jathi Ratnalu, Sania heading for their world premieres on Amazon Prime Video. In 2021, Prime Video has already released 25 titles across languages and formats and has a robust pipeline ready for the rest of the year.  

Tata Motors, Wrestling Federation Of India Strengthen Their Partnership; Launch ‘Quest For Gold At Paris Olympics 2024’

Key highlights:

* Strengthening partnership which started in 2018

* Enabling world-class coaching and training facilities along with wholesome nutritional programme, medical and physiotherapy

* Holistic support to ‘Yodhas’ with enhanced exposure to international tournaments

* Tata Yodha pick-up vehicles presented to all members of Tokyo Olympics 2020 wrestling team

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) strengthened their long term partnership further with the announcement of the ‘Quest for Gold at Paris Olympics 2024’, a holistic development programme with the singular objective to win the coveted Gold medal at next Olympics. As part of this initiative, WFI, with support from Tata Motors, will focus on the growth, progress and advancement of both men and women wrestlers, across age groups, by providing access to the right infrastructure, platform, opportunities and security. Young and talented Indian wrestlers, ‘Yodhas’ will gain assured and enhanced access to world-class training facilities, internationally-reputed coaches and support through a rich nutritional programme. In addition as part of this initiative, eligible senior wrestlers will be offered central contracts as also the budding junior wrestlers will be supported through virtuous scholarships along with insurance cover, medical and physiotherapy assistance.

Announcing the launch of this ‘Quest for Gold at Paris Olympics 2024’, Shri. Brijbhushan Sharan Singh, Hon’ble MP and President, Wrestling Federation of India, said, “Tata Motors’ committed support since 2018 has helped Indian wrestling grow to greater heights. In the last 3 years, our ‘Yodhas’ have won more than 40-50 medals at international competitions including, 5 medals at the Senior World Wrestling championships – highest ever for India, record 11 medals at the just-concluded Junior World Championship, and 2 medals at recently held Tokyo Olympics. The Cadet Wrestling Team, too, won its first title of the World Championship. The launch of our joint quest today should enable us to fulfil the entire nation’s longstanding aspiration of winning an Olympics Gold medal in wrestling at the next Paris Olympics in 2024.”

Tata Motors honoured the successful Indian wrestling team that participated in the Tokyo Olympics by presenting each member with its tough and rugged Tata Yodha pick-up to convey respect, appreciation and celebration of their heroism and success. Olympic Silver medallist Ravi Kumar Dahiya, bronze medallist Bajrang Punia along with fellow ‘Yodhas’, Anshu Malik, Sonam Malik, Seema Bisla, Deepak Punia and Vinesh Phogat were present in-person to support the quest and receive their Tata Yodha pick-up.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Girish Wagh, Executive Director, Tata Motors, said, “The sport of wrestling is deep rooted across India and enjoys a rich legacy of success in the global arena. Popular and followed by all sections of society, its machismo, aggression and endurance tests speed, agility and power. These virtues perfectly mirror the longevity, durability and robust performance of our commercial vehicles that are much valued by our customers both in India as well as international markets.

Through our steadfast association with WFI, we will continue to promote, train and foster the nation’s rich wrestling talent. At Tata Motors, we believe in supporting the sport and sportspeople who will take our country ahead with their potential, zeal and passion. To ensure that our talented wrestlers have ready access to all that is required to realise their immense potential, further hone their skills and bring home the coveted Olympic Gold in 2024, we are making our ongoing partnership with WFI more holistic and purposeful. I wish the federation and our wrestlers the very best in this quest for the Gold at Paris Olympics 2024.”

A multi-year, strategic partnership, forged between WFI and Tata Motors in 2018, has been developing, promoting and encouraging wrestling as a sport by providing world-class infrastructure, facilities and training to Indian wrestlers. In addition, the support from Tata Motors facilitated coaching of Indian wrestlers by acclaimed international coaches, long stint training in foreign locations, enhanced participation in international tournaments and access to specialist medical care as well as physiotherapy. The high degree of congruence between the tough and rugged commercial vehicles manufactured by Tata Motors and the valour displayed by the Indian wrestlers in global arenas makes this association a perfect match.

About Tata Motors

Tata Motors Limited (NYSE: TTM; BSE: 500570 and 570001; NSE: TATAMOTORS and TATAMTRDVR), a USD 35 billion organization, is a leading global automobile manufacturer of cars, utility vehicles, pick-ups, trucks and buses. Part of the USD 113 billion Tata group, Tata Motors is India’s largest and the only OEM offering extensive range of integrated, smart and e-mobility solutions. It has operations in India, the UK, South Korea, Thailand, South Africa, and Indonesia through a strong global network of 103 subsidiaries, 10 associate companies, 3 joint ventures and 2 joint operations as on March 31, 2020.

With a focus on engineering and tech enabled automotive solutions catering to the future of mobility, Tata Motors is India’s market leader in commercial vehicles and amongst the top four in the passenger vehicles market. With ‘Connecting Aspirations’ at the core of its brand promise, the company’s innovation efforts are focused to develop pioneering technologies that are sustainable as well as suited to evolving aspirations of the market and the customers. Tata Motors strives to bring new products that fire the imagination of GenNext customers, fueled by state of the art design and R&D centers located in India, UK, US, Italy and South Korea. Internationally, Tata commercial and passenger vehicles are marketed in countries, spread across Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, South America, Australia, CIS, and Russia.

About Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)

WFI is governing body for the sport of Wrestling in India. Headquartered in New-Delhi, WFI is duly & exclusively recognized by world body of wrestling - United World Wrestling (UWW), Ministry of Youth Affair & Sports (MoYAS) & the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). 

Fintech Player - BharatPe Forays Into Consumer Fintech Domain With The Launch Of 12% Club

* First-of-its-kind investment and borrowing app for consumers, in partnership with RBI approved NBFCs

* Offers up to 12% interest annually for consumer investments with no lock-in

* Consumers can borrow up to Rs 10 lacs at an interest rate of 12%

* Targets investment of US$ 100mn and loan book of US$ 50mn from the product in the first year

BharatPe, one of India’s fastest growing fintech companies, today announced its foray into the consumer space with the launch of its first-of-its-kind consumer product- 12% Club. Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store, this product is set to redefine the rules of consumer lending and investments. With 12% Club, consumers will have an option to invest and earn upto 12% annual interest or borrow at a competitive interest rate of 12%. BharatPe has partnered with RBI approved NBFCs to offer this investment-cum-borrowing product for consumers. The company aims to achieve an investment AUM of US$ 100 mn and a lending AUM of US$ 50 mn from this product, by the end of the current fiscal.

The consumers on the 12% Club app can invest their savings anytime by choosing to lend money through BharatPe’s partner P2P NBFCs. Additionally, consumers can avail collateral-free loans of upto Rs. 10 lacs on the 12% Club app for a tenure of 3 months, as per their convenience. There are no processing charges or pre-payment charges on the consumer loans. The loan eligibility will be defined based on a number of factors including consumer’s credit score, the shopping history using PAYBACK loyalty system or the payments done via BharatPe QR.

The consumers investing via the 12% Club app can put in a request to withdraw their investment anytime, partially or completely, without any withdrawal charges. They can start their investment journey by investing as low as Rs. 1000 and enjoy daily credit of interest. The upper limit for investment by an individual is currently set at Rs. 10 lacs and would be increased to Rs 50 lac over the next few months.

Commenting on the launch, Suhail Sameer, Chief Executive Officer, BharatPe said, “As we begin our journey on the consumer side, our focus will be to launch products that are industry shaping, 100% digital and easy to use. This one-of-its-kind product for consumers has been designed to ensure industry-best benefits both for lenders, as well as borrowers. We believe that 12% Club will strike the right chord with a diverse set of new-age digitally savvy customers- from young salaried individuals, to professionals with disposable incomes, as well as the investors who park their funds in various financial instruments. The initial response has been phenomenal. In the pilot phase, we have seen great traction with US$ 5mn of monthly investment run rate and US$ 1mn of monthly borrowing run rate. We are confident that this product will be well received in the market and will play a key role in driving financial inclusion in the country. This is just the beginning and we will be adding new customer products during the rest of the financial year.”

Added Suhail, “BharatPe’s P2P lending product for merchants has been one of our industry defining products with Gross Investments of close to US$ 700mn done by over 6.3 lac merchants. Also, we are one of the largest B2B Fintech lenders in the country, having disbursed over US$ 300 mn in business loans to over 2 lac merchant partners.”

In order to begin the journey of investments/ borrowing via the 12% Club, a customer needs to follow the steps below:

ü  Download the 12% Club app by visiting the link

ü  Complete the sign-up process

ü  Create the 12% Club account and accept T&Cs

ü  Start investments or borrowing journey with 12% Club

Today, BharatPe is a trusted fintech partner for millions of small merchants in India. Over the last 3 years, we have led the way and launched disruptive products to empower merchants- from India’s first interoperable UPI QR, to collateral free business loans and India’s first zero rental POS machines. These products have been well received and have been key contributors for driving financial inclusion for small merchants and kirana store owners.

Recently, BharatPe forayed into the unicorn club with Series E fund raise of US$ 350 mn at a valuation of US$ 2.85 bn. The round, led by Tiger Global, also saw new participation from Dragoneer Investment Group and Steadfast Capital. Five out of the seven existing institutional investors participated in the round - namely Coatue Management, Insight Partners, Sequoia Growth, Ribbit Capital and Amplo. BharatPe is now amongst the Top 5 most valued Fintech startups in India, and has one of the strongest cap tables for any start-up in India.

About BharatPe

BharatPe was co-founded by Ashneer Grover and Shashvat Nakrani in 2018 with the vision of making financial inclusion a reality for Indian merchants. In 2018, BharatPe launched India’s first UPI interoperable QR code, the first zero MDR payment acceptance service. In 2020, post-Covid, BharatPe also launched India’s only zero MDR card acceptance terminals – BharatSwipe. Currently serving over 70 lakh merchants across 140+ cities, the company is a leader in UPI offline transactions, processing 11 crores+ UPI transactions per month (annualized Transaction Processed Value of US$ 10+ Bn). The company has already facilitated disbursement of loans totaling to over Rs. 2,200 crores to its merchants, since launch. BharatPe’s POS business processes payments of over Rs. 1,400 crores/ month. BharatPe has raised close to US$ 600 million in equity and debt, till date. The company’s list of marquee investors includes Tiger Global, Dragoneer Investment Group, Steadfast Capital, Coatue Management, Ribbit Capital, Insight Partners, Steadview Capital, Beenext, Amplo and Sequoia Capital.  In June 2021, the company announced the acquisition of PAYBACK India, the country’s largest multi-brand loyalty program company with 100 million+ members. In June 2021, it was also given an in-principle approval by Reserve Bank of India to establish a Small Finance Bank, in partnership with Centrum Financial Services Limited (Centrum), the established and profitable NBFC arm of the Centrum Group.