Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), MAHE, Celebrates Annual Day & Awards Ceremony 2023

The Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), part of the esteemed Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), observed its illustrious Annual Day & Awards Ceremony on Thursday, 7th December 2023. The event was grandly held at the lawns of Fortune Inn Valley View in Manipal.

Gracing the event were several notable personalities, including Mrs Vasanti Pai, Trustee, MAHE Trust; Mr Sanjay Bose, Executive Vice President of HR & Learning & Development, Hotels Division, ITC Limited; and MAHE dignitaries Dr. H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor; Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor; Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor-Technology & Science; Dr N N Sharma, Pro Vice Chancellor- Strategy & Planning; Dr Giridhar Kini, Registrar; alongside distinguished alumni awardees of 2023, faculty, guests, parents, and students.

The ceremony's highlight was its Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) theme, titled "Celebrating Micro Cuisines of India with a Sustainable Development Goal Focus." This theme underscored WGSHA's commitment to sustainability and celebrated India's rich and diverse culinary heritage, spotlighting lesser-known micro cuisines from Bikaner, Indore, and Bhubaneswar.

Dr Chef K. Thirugnanasambantham, Principal of WGSHA, presented the Annual Report for 2023, outlining the college’s milestones, including accreditations, collaborations, student achievements, international study tours, and faculty recognitions. Mr. Sanjay Bose, the Chief Guest, lauded WGSHA's contributions to national building and its partnership with ITC Ltd. He praised WGSHA for its emphasis on nurturing not only academic excellence but also human values and conscience. The Guest of Honour, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, commended WGSHA for its exceptional service during the MAHE Convocation and its participation in the G20 summit at New Delhi. He highlighted WGSHA's national and global reputation as a premier hotel school and its significant contribution to MAHE's impressive NIRF rankings.

The ceremony also witnessed the release of a book titled “Lived Experiences of Hospitality Connoisseurs”, featuring 52 short cases authored by WGSHA faculty members. Key awards of the evening included ITC Chairman’s Gold Medals for academic excellence and the prestigious Distinguished Alumnus and Alumna Awards for 2023, conferred to Mr Giju Varghese and Ms. Sumita Kaul, respectively. The event concluded with a cultural extravaganza, featuring energetic dances and drama, followed by a themed dinner prepared by student chefs, paying homage to the culinary delights of Bikaner, Indore, and Bhubaneswar. This annual celebration not only marks the achievements of WGSHA but also its unwavering commitment to educational excellence and sustainable practices, setting a benchmark in hospitality education.

Tata Motors Announces Price Increase Of Its Commercial Vehicles From January 2024

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, announced that it will increase the price of its commercial vehicles effective 1st January 2024, up to 3%. The price increase is to offset the residual impact of the past input costs, and will be applicable across the entire range of commercial vehicles.

About Tata Motors

Part of the USD 128 billion Tata group, Tata Motors Limited (BSE: 500570 and 570001; NSE: TATAMOTORS and TATAMTRDVR), a USD 42 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, fueled 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, the UK, South Korea, Thailand, South Africa and Indonesia, Tata Motors markets its vehicles in Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the SAARC countries. As of March 31, 2023, Tata Motors’ operations include 88 consolidated subsidiaries, two joint operations, three joint ventures, and numerous equity-accounted associates, including their subsidiaries, over which the company exercises significant influence.

Hyundai Mobis Partners With TRUE Assistive Technology To Offer Accessible Car Seat Solutions That Enable Disability Inclusion

* Bangalore-based TRUE Assistive Technology develops assistive tech products of international standards that enable disability inclusion 

* As part of the collaboration, Hyundai Mobis will offer TRUE Assistive Technology’s accessible car seat solutions to help persons with disability and senior citizens with mobility issues ~

*TurnPlus can now be ordered as accessory across Hyundai showrooms ~

Recognising the huge need in India for Assistive tech products, Bangalore-based company, TRUE Assistive Technology has been developing assistive tech products of international standards that enable disability inclusion. The company has now collaborated with Hyundai – India’s second-largest automobile manufacturer with 15% market share as of 2022. As part of the collaboration, Hyundai will offer TRUE Assistive Technology’s accessible car seat solutions to help persons with disability and senior citizens with mobility issues.

Speaking about the collaboration, Naina Padaki, Founder and founder of TRUE Assistive Technology, said, “We are excited to join hands with Hyundai Mobis in our mission of making mobility accessible to all. This collaboration is a first-of-its-kind. Partnering with a global brand like Hyundai Mobis will help us offer accessibility solutions in the Indian market and help several individuals make the choice of stepping out of their house and leading an independent and fulfilling life.”

Mr. Yong Goon Park, Managing Director at Hyundai Mobis, expressed his thoughts on the partnership with TRUE Assistive Technology. He stated, "The accessible car seat solutions developed by TRUE Assistive Technology will play a crucial role in the Indian automotive market by improving the quality of travel and life for those facing mobility challenges. During this month of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I want to emphasize on our commitment to promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities at all levels of society. We aim to remove barriers and ensure their full and equal participation in every aspect of life."

There are about 2.68 crore people with disabilities in India. About 20% of them have difficulty in movement which causes problems in commuting. A significant challenge of mobility has to do with getting in and out of cars. There is a dearth of products that are completely engineered to provide assistance. Available solutions are mainly modifications made by local garages. Other imported solutions are expensive and only a few dealers provide them, with a cumbersome after-sales experience.

True Assistive Technology makes quality and standardized products in India and for India. One of its signature products - TurnPlus has impacted more than 500 lives in India, to an overwhelming response and encouragement from the Persons with disability. TurnPlus, is a patented, award winning, easy to install, swivel seat mechanism for cars, which addresses a very important aspect of easy commute and being independent to move around easily. It is designed to improve the quality of travel and life by making car travel easy for people who face mobility challenges.

With TurnPlus, the original seat, along with its track and reclining motion, remains intact. The seat is removed, the mechanism is installed, and the seat is put back. There is no modification to the car’s structure or core functioning. It can be installed in 80% of Indian cars in less than 5 hours. Additionally, with minimal modification to the vehicle, the mechanism can be removed and the seat can be restored as original condition easily. Thus not affecting the resale of the vehicle. Further, no maintenance is required & the product comes with a 3-year warranty.

TurnPlus can now be ordered as an accessory across Hyundai showrooms in India.

Zee Business And WION Triumph At NT Awards 2023, Setting A New Standard For Excellence

Zee Business and WION, the flagship channels of Zee Media Corporation Limited (ZMCL), have emerged as unrivalled leaders at the NT Awards 2023, securing a remarkable total of 17 wins across diverse categories. This stellar achievement not only cements their leadership position but also highlights their unwavering commitment to delivering impactful and innovative content.

Zee Business, a frontrunner in the industry, clinched a victory in five significant categories, showcasing its industry prowess. The compelling 'Budget - Shining India' promo secured the prestigious ‘Promo for a Show’ award, while the informative daily news bulletin 'India 360' earned the 'Daily News Bulletin' award. The thought-provoking 'News Par Views' was recognized with the 'Business Talk Show' award, and the ground-breaking ‘Budget Metaverse’ was honored with the coveted ‘Technological Innovation in News Television’ award.

Meanwhile, WION, the global news network, also celebrated a dozen wins spanning diverse categories, showcasing its global appeal and relevance. The impactful ‘World at War’ secured the ‘Current Affairs Special’ award, the engaging ‘WION Sports’ earned the ‘Sports News Show’ award, and the captivating ‘The Good Life’ clinched the ‘Lifestyle and Fashion News Show’  award and many more. The efficient team of journalists and a series of prime-time shows present reliable reportage of unfiltered truth, unleashing the on-ground reality for a globalized united world.

Madhu Soman, Chief Business Officer of WION and Zee Business, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Zee Business and WION have been successfully setting new standards of excellence, and we will continue pushing the boundaries. We go beyond headlines, and these awards motivate us to keep delivering news that not only informs but also resonates with the hearts and minds of our audience. In a rapidly evolving media landscape, these awards validate our strategic approach and commitment to staying at the forefront of news and storytelling."

Anindya Khare, Marketing Head, ZMCL, further added, "Our success at the NT Awards is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our talented teams and our unwavering commitment to quality journalism. As we celebrate these wins, we look forward to continually innovating, exploring new horizons, and ensuring that we remain synonymous with excellence in news and content creation."

Zee Business and WION remain steadfast in their commitment to providing the global audience with news that goes beyond headlines, resonating with hearts and minds.

About Zee Media Corporation Ltd

Zee Media Corporation Ltd, one of India's leading media companies, has a strong presence in the news and regional genres, with 16 news channels in seven different languages, reaching more than 528+ million viewers through its linear and digital properties.

Ashok Leyland Contributes Rs 3 Crores To Mitigate Impact Of Michaung Cyclone

Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, today donated Rupees Three Crores to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Relief Fund towards relief work and humanitarian aid for the flood-affected areas in the aftermath of Michaung cyclone. 

The contribution aims to assist the state government in its relentless efforts to address the impact of the Michuang cyclone on the people of Tamil Nadu,  underscoring Ashok Leyland’s dedication to supporting the community during challenging times.

Mr. Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director & CEO, Ashok Leyland, said, “We are deeply saddened by the havoc caused by the cyclonic storm and the incessant rains that has affected the life of many people in Chennai and adjoining districts.  While the cyclone has left a trail of destruction, it is very heartening to see the quick response demonstrated by the Government of Tamil Nadu in managing the difficult situation and in ensuring that necessary relief measures are undertaken. 

Ashok Leyland has always been supporting the initiatives taken by the Government during any such calamity and we stand committed to continue this support this time as well. Being one of the oldest corporates in Tamil Nadu, it is only our duty to stand united with the Government in providing relentless support to the affected communities.”

The cheque was handed over to Thiru M.K. Stalin, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Government of Tamil Nadu, by Mr. Shenu Agarwal, MD & CEO, Ashok Leyland.

BMW India To Increase Prices By Up To 2% Effective January 01, 2024

BMW India has announced a price increase of up to 2% across the BMW model range. The new prices will be effective from 01 January 2024 onwards.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President of BMW Group India, said, "BMW India’s decision to implement a price increase across the model range is a thoughtful response to a confluence of factors. In the face of evolving dynamics, fluctuations in exchange rates and rising input costs, this price adjustment will sustain the crucial balance that allows us to consistently deliver the high standards and power-packed experience our customers associate with BMW vehicles.”

The range of locally produced cars includes the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine, BMW M 340i, BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW 7 Series, BMW X1, BMW X3, BMW X5, BMW X7 and MINI Countryman.

BMW dealerships display BMW Z4, BMW M4 Coupe, BMW X3 M40i, BMW X4 M40i, BMW M5, BMW M8 Coupe, BMW XM and the electric cars BMW iX1, BMW i4, BMW i7 and BMW iX which are available in the country as completely built-up units (CBU).

Thanks to BMW India Financial Services, customers can enjoy complete peace of mind with customized financial plans. BMW 360? Finance Plan includes attractive monthly instalments and rate of interest, assured buy-back options and flexible term-end opportunities among other benefits. BMW India Financial Services is also presenting exclusive offers applicable on limited units of select models.

BMW India is a 100% subsidiary of the BMW Group and is headquartered in Gurugram (National Capital Region). Till date, BMW Group has invested over INR 5.2 billion (€ 72 million) in BMW India. The wide range of activities in India include a manufacturing plant in Chennai, a parts warehouse in Pune, a training centre in Gurugram NCR and development of a dealer organisation across metropolitan centres of the country. Currently, BMW Group India has over 80 touchpoints in the Indian market. The total number of employees at BMW Group India is 650.

25 Years Of BRAI; Bengaluru Real Estate Shows Resilience, Rapid Growth Post Pandemic: Observe Industry Stalwarts

* BRAI felicitates 22 real estate industry leaders

Bengaluru has witnessed a meteoric growth across segments over the last two decades and a half and has been swift to bounce back after the pandemic. The stupendous growth registered is witnessed across all segments, residential, commercial, office spaces, observed industry stalwarts at a panel discussion organised by Bangalore Realtors Association India (BRAI) to celebrate the successful completion of 25 years of its existence.

Pre-pandemic, the sales per quarter had hovered around Rs 10,000 crores. Post Covid the scene has turned very positive with the forthcoming quarter likely to touch Rs 20,000 crores. Depending on the location as well as nature of the development, the rates in the varied segments have registered a growth of 35 to 65 per cent. The residential segment alone has witnessed 50 per cent increase in growth, discussed the panel

Lauding the good performance of the real estate sector in the city were leading industry heads, Mr Irfan Razack, CMD, Prestige Group, Mr. Raj Menda Managing Director, RMZ, Mr CN Govindaraju, CMD, Vaishnavi Group, Mr. Ramani Shastri, Managing Director of Sterling Developers, Mr. Jitu Virwani, Chairman and Managing Director of Embassy Group, Ms Pavithra Shankar, Managing Director Brigade Group and Mr Farook Mahmood, Managing Director of Silverline Realty & Founder of BRAI who participated in the panel discussion "Tracing Bengaluru's skyline over the last 25 years and its resilience post the pandemic". The panel was moderated by Mr Ayub Khan, President, BRAI.

Present on the occasion were Honourable Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, Mr N Jayaram, BDA Commissioner and Mr HC Kishore Chandra, Chairman of Karnataka RERA.

Mr Farook Mahmood, Managing Director of Silverline Realty & Founder of BRAI, who represented the realtors in the panel, stated, "The suburbs of Bengaluru have registered an impressive growth with all the desired services tuned in, turning them each into self-contained mini-cities. The dynamics have currently changed in the city with every suburb coming with all facilities that are on par with the CBD. The younger residents are increasingly looking to these regions to buy a home."

Catering to Gen Next

With technology taking over almost every segment, real estate sector has not been far behind, the various techno solutions on offer plugging in and transforming this industry to cater to Gen Next. Recognising the key role that technology will be playing going forward in addressing the dynamics of the real estate sector, be it in transactions, in the construction and execution, a second panel discussion on "Leveraging Technology in Real Estate" was hosted.

The panel discussion had leading industry heads Mr NA Zayd Noaman, Director, Prestige Estates, Mr Aditya Virwani, Director, Embassy Group, Mr. Ravindra Pai, Managing Director, Century Real Estate and Mr Ashish Puravankara, Managing Director, Puravankara, participating. The panel was moderated by Ms Nirupa Shankar, Joint Managing Director, Brigade Group.

As part of the 25-year celebrations, BRAI also felicitated 22 stalwarts of the real estate industry, which comprised of leading real estate developers, advocates and architects.

About BRAI:

Bangalore Realtors Association of India (BRAI) was founded in the year 1998 and has been tirelessly working for the last 25 years to bring in transparency and fair play in real estate practices along with organised and regulated growth of the city where it has played a major role as facilitator. BRAI has been instrumental in transacting business that has aided in shaping the city to successfully meet the needs of common man. Be it office spaces, retail, warehousing, residences, BRAI has served as a key link in the chain, in the absence of which functionality of the projects as well as completion would have been impacted as a reliable source of connection is key to the success of any project.